Introduction to Student Rights and Responsibilities

In order for our school to fulfill its responsibility to educate our students, the school has the general power and obligation to make reasonable rules designed to promote an atmosphere where learning can take place effectively and to discipline students in a reasonable manner when those rules are violated. The school is said to act "in loco parentis", that is, in place of the parent with respect to the supervision of students' education and conduct while they are in school or on school grounds.

Student Rights

Student rights are guaranteed by the United States Constitution, New Jersey Constitution, state and federal statutes, state and federal court decisions and commissioner of education. The New Jersey Constitution guarantees students the right to a "thorough and efficient free public education".

Affirmative Action Statement

The board guarantees equal educational and employment opportunity to all, regardless of race, color, age, creed, sex, ancestry, national origin, marital status, English proficiency, disabilities, and social or economic status. The board further guarantees equal opportunity in regard to other applicable federal and state laws.

Harassment

The board of education shall maintain an instructional and working environment that is free from harassment of any kind. Sexual harassment shall include but not be limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Disabled

The education and related services of disabled students shall be in compliance with federal and state law and code. In addition to prohibiting educational and employment decisions based on handicapping conditions, the district shall as much as feasible, make facilities accessible to disabled students and employees as intended by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Acts of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Affirmative Action Officer/504 Coordinator is Ann P. Grace, Assistant Superintendent, who may be reached at 732-240-6414 or for instances pertaining to the Americans with Disabilities Act, contact Dr. Ron Schoka, the Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator at 732-473-3126.

Grievance Procedure

In an effort to resolve complaints as expeditiously as possible and in keeping with federal/state anti-discrimination legislation, the Board of Education adopts and hereby publishes the following grievance procedure.

Step#1 - The grievant should report the incident to the building administrator or the District affirmative action officer.

Step #2 - The grievant should submit a written formal complaint to the building administrator or the District affirmative action officer.

Step #3 - The grievant should appeal in writing to the chief School administrator within five school days. The chief school administrator will review the details of the grievance, schedule appropriate meetings and respond in writing within twenty school days. If the grievance is not resolved, proceed to Step #4.

Step #4 - The grievant should appeal in writing to the board of education within five school days. The board will review the documentation and discuss the incident with the chief school administrator at the next regularly scheduled board meeting. A board hearing shall be conducted so as to accord due process to all parties involved in the complaint such as written notice of hearing dates, right to counsel, right to present witnesses, right to cross examine and to present evidence statements. The decision of the board shall be by a majority of the members. The board shall respond to the grievant in writing within five school days after the meeting

Student Expectations

In order to receive the full credit and benefit from any class, students must arrive each day on time, be fully prepared, and participate in the activities designated for the class by the instructor. Any deviation from this routine or disruption of it will be dealt with by the teacher and administration as a breach of school discipline. Any disruption of the school or interference with the normal educational process violates the rights of others to a free and public education. These disruptions will not be tolerated. Such behavior may be cause for suspension, dismissal, and for referral to the local police.

All students attending Ocean County Vocational-Technical School are expected to conduct themselves according to the formal standards of behavior established by our society.

Students are expected to:

•  Respect the person, property, and rights of others.

•  Conform to the reasonable standards of socially acceptable behavior.

•  Follow any reasonable requests or directives of those persons responsible for order and maintenance of the educational process.

•  Obey all school rules, school board policies and state laws.

•  Use appropriate language at all times.

•  Be on time to class in order to receive full credit and benefit from your class.

•  Be prepared for class.

•  Complete all assignments.

•  Dress appropriately.

Students and State Law

The following are portions of the New Jersey State Law Title 18 A pertaining to students in public schools.

18A: 37-2.1
CAUSES FOR SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION OF STUDENTS

Any student who was guilty of continued and willful disobedience, or of open defiance to the authority of any teacher or person having authority over him, or to their habitual use of profanity or of obscene language, or who shall cut, deface, or otherwise injure school property, shall be liable to punishment and to suspension or expulsion from school.

Conduct which shall constitute good cause for suspension or expulsion of the student guilty of such conduct shall include, but not be limited to, any of the following:

a. continued and willful disobedience;

b. open defiance of the authority of any teacher or person having authority over him;

c. conduct of such character as to constitute a continuing danger to the physical well-being of other students;

d. physical assault upon another student or upon any teacher or school employees;

e. taking or attempting to take, personal property or money from another student, or from his presence, by means of force or fear;

f. willfully causing, or attempting to cause, substantial damage to school property.

18A: 37-1
SUBMISSION OF STUDENTS TO AUTHORITY

Students in the public schools shall comply with the rules established in pursuance of law for the government of such schools, pursue the prescribed course of study and submit to the authority of the teachers and others over them.

18A: 25-2
AUTHORITY OVER STUDENTS

The teacher or other person in authority over such students shall hold every student accountable for disorderly conduct in school during recess and on the playground of the school and on the way to and from school.

18A: 6-1
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT OF STUDENTS

No person employed or engaged in the school or educational institution, whether public or private, shall inflict, or cause to be inflicted, corporal punishment upon a student attending said school or institution, but any such person may, within the scope of his employment, use and apply such amounts of force as is reasonable and necessary:

1. To quell a disturbance, threatening physical injury to others;

2. To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects upon the person or within the control of a pupil;

3. For the purpose of self defense; and

4. For the protection of persons or property; and such acts, or any of them, some not be construed to constitute corporal punishment.

18A: 37-3.1
LIABILITY TO PARENTS OF STUDENTS FOR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY

The parent or guardian of any student who shall injure any school property shall be liable for damages for the amount of the injury to be collected by the Board of Education of the District or any court of competent jurisdiction, together with cost of same.

N.J.S.A. 2C: 33-20
POSSESSION OF REMOTELY ACTIVATED PAGING DEVICE BY A STUDENT

Any person enrolled as a student of an elementary or secondary school, who knowingly and without the express written permission of the school board, its delegated authority, or any school principal, brings or possesses any remotely activated paging device on any property used for school purposes, at any time and regardless of whether school is in session or other persons are present, is guilty of disorderly persons offense.

I.  AWARD OF CREDITS

A total of 15 credits for year may be granted to you for a Ocean County Vocational-Technical School program. These credits may be applied toward graduation in the following ways by your home school:

A. 15 credits may be awarded for each year toward the fine, practical, performing arts, or career exploration.

II.  AWARD OF PROGRAM COMPLETION PROFICIENCY CERTIFICATE

All eleventh and twelfth grade students attending vocational programs shall be required to perform skills they can demonstrate as described in the skill profiles developed for each program. If you exhibit poor attendance and/or are unable to perform minimal level attendance and/or are unable to perform minimal level skills you will not receive a certificate or participate in graduation at the vocational school.

You will be awarded a certificate and invited to participate in our graduation ceremony if you meet the following requirements:

A. Award of Proficiency Certificate with Honors

1. That you receive a final average of "A" for the last year of a one or two year program.

2. That you be absent no more than five days.

3. That you have no more than seven lates per year.

B. Award of Proficiency Certificate

1. That you received a passing grade for the year.

2. That you do not violate the attendance policy agreement.

C. Award of Program Completion

At the discretion of the building administrator, students may be invited to attend the annual awards ceremony and receive a certificate of program completion.

Grading System and Report Cards

Report cards will be issued four times a year. The student will receive a copy of this card at the end of each marking period (approximately every ten weeks). Grades will also be forwarded to the home schools where they are recorded and will appear on the home school report card. Student progress factors will also appear on each report card.

If a student receives an INC. (Incomplete) for a marking period, arrangements should be made by the student to make up all the required class work within a two week period of time. Failure to make up this work may result in the student not passing for that marking period. The INC. grade will automatically change to an "F" grade the following marking period.

L.E. (Late entry) is issued when a student enters a vocational program late into the marking period. Special arrangements will be needed to determine the final grade when a student receives an "L.E." For any given marking period. The following grading system is used in all Ocean County Vocational-Technical School centers:

A = 93-100

B = 85-92

C = 75-84

D = 70-74

F = 55-69

INC. = Incomplete Grade

SCHOOL RULES AND OTHER REGULATIONS

Academic standards and student eligibility for cocurricular activities

Students who fail their vocational program in a marking period shall be ineligible to participate in cocurricular activities for the entire marking period.

Access to student records

The student may see his/her record only with guardian or parental consent; in connection with an emergency; or when an exception is granted to certified personnel.

Accidents

All accidents involving injury to yourself should be reported to your instructor at once. First aid will be given and an accident report form filled out. This practice of reporting every accident, no matter how slight, is very important for your benefit and protection.
First aid kits are available in each classroom and/or shop. All individuals concerned are asked to familiarize themselves with the location of each.

Adult Students Policy

Every person, 18 years of age, is an adult as per Chapter 81, Laws of 1972 State of New Jersey.

Title 18 A:37-1. states " Regardless of age, pupils in the public school shall comply with all established rules of the government for such schools, pursue the prescribed course of study and submit to the authority of teachers and others in authority over them."

Therefore, school regulations pertaining to attendance, field trips, driving regulations, lateness, truancy, the use of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, etc. applies to all adult students. Adult students may sign their own absence excuses and early dismissal notes. They are legally independent of their parents and do not need their consent for school activities. However, the staff and administration will continue to communicate with parents when they feel it is in the best interests of the student.

Bedside Instruction

Bedside instruction is available to students with medical problems that will result in an extended absence from vocational school. Parents/guardians must contact the main office for a Bedside Instruction application if this extended absence is for two or more weeks.

Role of Parents/Guardians

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to keep the school apprised of changes in factors in the home situation which may affect student conduct or performance and to inform the school of any changes in legal custody of the student. Parents/guardians are responsible for their child's punctuality, attendance, cleanliness and propriety of dress. The office should be notified immediately of any change of address.

Commendation Reports

Commendation reports may be sent to those individuals who are doing outstanding work.

Cooperative Vocational Education / Cooperative Industrial Education

This program is designed to further prepare students for the "world of work". Qualified students are placed on the job by the CVE Coordinator. Students are placed only in situations which will enhance their education in the area in which they have received training. In addition to being paid by the employer, the student continues to earn credits toward graduation. A "qualified student" is one who has exhibited by his/her performance, effort, attitude and attendance that he/she will perform well on the job and represent Ocean County Vocational-Technical Schools in the best possible manner.

Dismissal Time Procedures

All students are to enter and exit through the main entrance of their vocational center and proceed to their instructional areas by way of the corridors. Students are not to enter or exit the outside shop doors or bays. Students with permission to drive shall enter and exit in the same manner.

Driving Policy

Students are not permitted to drive to the vocational centers. The only exceptions to this rule would be post-secondary students or those students who would be adversely affected by scheduling problems, work, or family commitments. Students who fall into the above mentioned categories must apply to the principal or designee for a student parking permit. The issuing of these permits will be based upon parking space availability, (Staff and post secondary students have priority) and need. A limited number of permits will be issued at each center on a case-by-case basis.

The driving of an automobile to the vocational center is a privilege, not a right, and can be lost. Failure to part in the designated areas and improper operation of the automobile will result in disciplinary action and the loss of this privilege.

Students with permission to drive to vocational school may not, under any circumstances, drive other students either to or from vocational school.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

It is prohibited to sell, distribute, use or possess alcoholic beverages, controlled dangerous substances and/or compounds not prescribed by physicians, while under the jurisdiction of the school. Any student involved in these acts shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. In addition criminal charges will be filed for possession of the substances.

Student suspected of "being under the influence" will be referred to the school nurse and building administrator. The student's home school principal shall be contacted and made aware of the student's condition. The parents or guardians will be contacted and they shall arrange for an immediate examination by a physician to diagnose whether the student is under the influence. If the parent or guardian cannot select a physician, the school will select a physician or the student will be taken to the nearest emergency room or clinic for examination. In either case the report must be furnished within 24 hours to the parent or guardian and the principal as to the determination of the student's physical condition. This report will determine whether or not the student is under the influence. This team shall be allowed to return to school until such time as a positive diagnosis of alcohol or other chemical use is received.

If the student's diagnosis is negative, the student may continue in his or her program. If the results are positive, the student will be suspended from school pending a successful readmittance conference. The parent must present a physician's note at this conference stating that the student returning to school is "physically and mentally capable of functioning in a vocational setting".

Refusal or failure by a parent or guardian to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A: 40A-12 shall be deemed a violation of the compulsory education and/or child neglect of laws. Appropriate charges may be filed.

Student Self-Administration of Medication

The board shall permit self-administration of medication for as asthma or other potentially life-threatening illnesses by students both on school premises during regular school hours and off-site work after regular school hours when a student is participating in field trips or extracurricular activities. Parents or guardians or the student must meet the conditions set forth in board policy 5141.3.

Early Dismissal Procedures

No student under the age of 18 shall be permitted to leave the school prior to the end of the school day unless signed out in the main office or attendance office by a parent or guardian or person authorized to act on behalf of the parent or guardian. The student desiring such an early dismissal from school must demonstrate reasonable and legitimate need before permission will be granted. Students over the age of 18 must follow all of the above rules but do not need parental permission or authorization. ( However, the dismissal is subject to the approval of the Principal or Vice Principal).

Lockers

The student is assigned a locker for the storage of books, safety glasses/goggles and other equipment. It is the student's responsibility to see that his/her locker is kept locked and in order at all times. School combination locks are to be used.

Search and Seizure

School lockers remain the property of the district even when used by students. Lockers are subject to administrative search in the interest of school safety, sanitation, discipline, enforcement of school regulations and searched by law enforcement officials on presentation of the proper warrant. Students and their parents/guardians shall be informed of this policy when lockers are assigned.

Searches for Controlled Dangerous Substances/Drug Paraphernalia/Alcohol/Firearms/Other Weapons

Searches conducted by staff when there is suspicion that substance abuse laws and policies are being violated shall be based on the reasonable grounds required by this policy. When law enforcement officials conduct the search, the more stringent grounds required by law must be applied.

Missing the Bus to OCVTS

One Day Driving Permits

Students requesting to drive to vocational school for school related business must request a one day driving permit from the center principal or designee. This is a temporary permit only. Students driving to vocational school on a temporary basis must follow all school rules pertaining to responsible driving.

School Closing Procedures

If, for any reason, the schools may be close, tune in to one of the following radio stations for information:

1) WOBM-FM        2) WOBM-AM         3) WADB         4) WJLK         5) WJRZ

Smoking

Students may wear their hair however they choose as long as it does not endanger themselves or others or create classroom disorder.  Students are expected to dress according to the occupational areas in which they are being trained. Required clothing is the student's responsibility. Specific information covering the proper dress for the various areas will be issued by the instructors.

NOTE: Apparel with offensive or profane messages will not be allowed. The student will be asked to remove the clothing with the offensive or profane message or to hide the message..

Student Progress Reports

Progress reports are mailed to the students' homes on or about the middle of each marking period to students who are failing or experiencing difficulty at the time. These will indicate the possible cause of the problem and suggested means of correcting the situation. A copy will also be sent to the home school. These notices may also be sent at other times during the marking period, if the instructor feels it is necessary.

Pregnant Students

No vocational student, who is otherwise eligible to attend the schools of this district, shall be denied an educational program solely because of pregnancy, child birth, pregnancy-related disabilities or parenthood.

The board reserves the right to require, as a pre-requisite for attendance in the vocational classes of the schools, that each pregnant student present to the chief School administrator or designee, her physician's written statement that such activity will not be injurious to her health, nor jeopardize her pregnancy.

A pregnant student who is physically unable to attend class during her pregnancy will be offered a reasonable accommodation.

A student who has received home instruction for reasons associated with her pregnancy shall be readmitted to the vocational school program upon her request and the written statement of a physician that she is physically fit to do so.

Telephones

Students may not use the pay phones. Students may ask permission from their instructors to use a phone in the office for emergency calls only.

Students can not receive calls during class time. Urgent messages will be taken by the office secretary and forwarded to the student as soon as possible.

Computer and On-Line Technology

The board of education is committed to the effective use of technology to enhance the quality of student learning. It also recognizes that safeguards have to be established to insure that the districts' investment in both hardware and software is achieving the benefits of technology and inhibiting negative side effects.

Students using the Ocean County Vocational-Technical School e-mail and Internet access do so as part of the educational process. Strict guidelines have been developed that the user of these services must adhere to. Students will be required to sign an agreement that binds them to follow these guidelines. If any violation is committed, their access privileges may be revoked and school disciplinary action may be taken. Appropriate legal action may also result.

Theft and Theft Reporting

The best deterrent to theft is prevention.

1. Do not give anyone your locker combination.

2. Be sure to lock your locker at all times.

3. Take proper care in identifying your books, tools, and other personal property.

Student reminders:

1. The theft of school property, on loan to you, does not relieve or reduce your responsibility for the stolen property.

2. The school is not responsible for stolen property.

3. Be alert. Inform the main office of any suspicious behavior regarding the possible theft of personal or school property.

4. Should a theft occur, you must inform your instructor and notify the main office.

Tools and Equipment Control

Use and care of tools is the responsibility of each individual student. It is the duty of the shop foreman under the supervision of the instructor to see that tools and equipment are properly stored in their respective locations before and at the end of each class.

In the event of the disappearance of a tool or piece of equipment, the loss should be brought to the attention of the instructor and noted on the Tool Loss Form and forwarded to the office within a twenty-four hour period. Broken equipment or tools should be immediately reported to the instructor. Students/parents are responsible for tools and supplies assigned to students, the loss of same is their responsibility.

Visitors

Students are not permitted to invite students from other schools, graduates of Ocean County Vocational-Technical Schools, relatives or other adults to visit them during school hours without administrative permission. All visitors must report to the main office and receive written permission to remain in the building or on school grounds. Failure to comply will be interpreted as trespassing.

Student Report Statement

Please be advised that parents have the right to examine their son's/daughter's entire school record. In accordance with NJSA. 47:3-15, the following will be kept permanently:

A. The original application

B. Record of daily attendance

C. Grades

D. Skill profile

E. History and status of physical health

F. Any other records that may be required by the state Board of Education

G. Cosmetology hours (If applicable)

Educational, occupational and military organizations have a right to seek pupil records and directories. In the event you do not want this information given to them, please notify us in writing.

You may call to arrange a file examination date and have the items of information duplicated at $0.25 per page. Thirty (30) days after graduation the school will destroy all materials not legally mandated.

No action is required on your part unless you wish a copy of materials not contained in A-G, or do not want information given to educational, occupational or military organizations.

DISCIPLINE/ATTENDANCE POLICY

For optimum access to these skills, good discipline and attendance are required. New Jersey School Law Decision 51 NJ 230, 23A.2(1066), Jackson V. Llankinson states that, "The relationship between child and school authorities is not a voluntary one but is compelled by law; a child must attend school and is subject to school rules and discipline."

2. seriously disrupt the educational process as to deny fellow students of a "thorough and efficient education."

In either situation, the superintendent or designee must approve the dismissal.

POINTS SYSTEM

Five Points - Parents and sending school notified including listing the violations

Ten Points - An informal conference to two days in-school suspension. A letter will be sent to the parents and sending school indicating the violations.

Fifteen Points - A conference will be held and in/out-of-school suspension of 3 days will be assigned. Letters of the action will be generated and sent to the home school and the parents. A parent conference is recommended.

1.   No student should be deprived a Proficiency Certificate, award, or eligibility to compete for an award because of an absence occasioned by the observance of the pupil's religion.

2.  The total number of student absences (excused and unexcused) will be reviewed regularly and notification of the student's parents and home school counselors will be made on the following basis:

a.  Every absence will result in a telephone call from the Attendance office, if appropriate.

b. 1-4 days absent- It is the teacher's responsibility to counsel the student.

c. 5 days unexcused absences- Formal written notification sent to the parent/guardian from the teacher.

d. 6-9 days unexcused absences- A guidance counselor will meet with and counsel the student and contact the parent/guardian after the eighth absence.

e. 10 days unexcused absences- The building administrator will meet with the student and provide the parent/guardian and home school counselor with written notification that one or all of the following consequences may occur:

        i. The student may not be eligible for a proficiency certificate and may not be invited to participate in the Ocean County Vocational-Technical Certificate Awards Assembly.

       ii. The student will be required to sign an Attendance Probation Contract which will place the student on a probationary status for the remainder of the school year. Students who are found to be in violation of this contract may be subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with their sending school and/or the vocational school's policy.

i. The student may not receive a proficiency certificate. The student may also be placed in a no-credit status in accordance with the home school policy.

ii. An alternate placement may be recommended for the student after consultation with the home school staff.

iii. The student may be denied the privilege to return to the Ocean County Vocational-Technical School the following year.

iv. Post secondary students may be removed from the program after the 18th absence.

3. The following reasons constitute an excused absence:

a. home school closed

b. approved field trip

c. athletic events

d. other school related activities

The above items must be certified by a home school official.

The following represent excused absences which must be clarified in writing no later than two weeks after the occurrence. Illness requires a physician's note.

e. death in the immediate family

f. religious holiday

g. medical or dental appointment

h. driver's license examination

i. court appearance

j. job interview

k. illness verified by a physician's certificate

4. The building administrator shall require from the parent/guardian of each student (or the student if he/she is of age) a written statement of the reason for the absence. These notes should be submitted within ten days of the student's absence to be considered for excused status. The building administrator shall take whatever means are necessary to assure the validity of the written excuses.

5. In addition to notification of parents by the building administrator, teachers shall make every effort to inform parents via progress reports and/or place a call when absences to their particular program indicate an impediment to the student's instructional program.

6. All pupils regardless of the reason must request make-up work from their instructors, which in their professional opinion is necessary to assure continuity in the instructional program.

7. Students who are truant from vocational school will receive an "F" grade for all work which the students were responsible for the day of the absence.

8. Students accumulating three truancies (cuts) will be dismissed from the vocational school and returned to their home schools.

9. Students may appeal any and all decisions as indicated in the student grievance policy located in the Ocean County Vocational-Technical School's Student Handbook.