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OLD BRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL “HOME OF THE KNIGHTS”
2016-2017 STUDENT HANDBOOK
& CODE OF CONDUCT
One Community
One Mission
One Knight
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS Title Page/High School Administration Cover
Table of Contents 1
SECTION 1 - STUDENT HANDBOOK 4
General Information 4 Expectations of Students 4
Student Agenda/Handbook and Planner 4
Helpful Hints 4
Study Hints 4
Bathroom/Lavatory Use 5
Changing Classes 5
Early Out/Late Arrival – Senior Privilege 5
Fire Drill 5
Flag Salute and Pledge of Allegiance 6
Hallway Passes 6
Homeroom/Period One 6
Identification (ID) Tags 6
Late Bus 6
Library - Overdue Book Policy 7
Lockers, Hall/PE 7
Lost and Found 7
Lunch 7
Participation in After School Activities/Prom 8
RealTime Alert System 8
School Closings/Delayed Openings 8
School Property 8
School Rings 8
School Store 9
School Trips 9
Telephone Calls 9
Visitors 9
Yearbook 9
Academics: Policies and Procedures 10 Graduation Policy 10
Grade Level Promotion Credit Requirement 10
Course Changes, Add/Drop 10
Course Load 11
Course Offerings 11
Exams, Midterms/Finals 11
Grading Rubric 11
GPA 11
Honor Roll 12
Home Instruction 13
Incomplete Grades 13
Progress Reports 13
Summer School 13
Athletics/Sports Program 14 Sports Offerings 14
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Eligibility Requirements 14
Student Responsibilities 16
Tryouts/Practices/Games 16
Attendance: Policies and Practices 18 Absences 18
Appeals 18
Consequences 19
Early Dismissal 19
Excused Absences/Driver’s License 20
Late To School 20
Guidance Department/Counseling Services 21
Counseling Staff 21
Change of Address/Telephone Number 21
College Center 21
College Visitations 21
Transfer/Withdrawal/Re-entry Procedures 22
Working Papers 22
Health Services 23 Accidents and Insurance 23
Excuses from Physical Education 23
Extended Illness/Communicable Diseases 23
Immunization 23
Medical Transportation 24
Medication 24
Scoliosis Screening 24
Student Activities 25 2015-2016 Class Advisors 25
OBHS PTSA 25
Extra-Curricular Activities 26
SECTION 2 - STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 37 NJ Statute 18A:37-2 37
Abusive Language/Profanity 38
Abusive Language/Profanity to a Staff Member 38
Assault/Violence in School/Fights 38
Assault on Board of Education Members and Employees 40
Bullying/Bias Incidents/Cyber-bullying 40
Bus Misconduct 41
Cell Phones 41
Cell Phone/Electronic Device Use 41
Cheating 42
Cutting Class 42
Dress Code 42
Drugs and Alcohol Policy and Procedures 43
Due Process 44
Failure to Serve Administrative Discipline 45
False Allegations 45
Food/Beverages 45
Food (Throwing/Fight) 45
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Forgery 45
Gambling 45
Gangs and Gang Activity 46
Harassment, Racial/Sexual 46
Hats/Bandanas, Beats, etc. 47
Horseplay/Inappropriate Physical Contact 47
Inappropriate Items 47
Insubordination 47
Internet Use 47
Leaving Class Without Permission 49
Leaving School Grounds 49
Lighters and Matches 49
Out of Bounds While In or Outside School Building 49
Parking/Driving Regulations 49
Personal Grooming 50
Privileges/Rights 51
Public Displays of Affection 51
Search and Seizure 51
Search of Student Property 51
Security Breach 51
Smoking and Possession of Tobacco Products 51
Truancy 52
Verbal Assault/Menacing Threats 52
Weapons Possession 53
Disciplinary Procedures/Consequences 54
Appendix A—Code of Conduct Quick Reference Guide 56
Appendix B – NJ Administrative Code 6A: 16-4.3 58
Appendix C – Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Policy 63
Appendix D – Truancy Statute 78
Appendix E – Observation and Substance Screening Report 79
Appendix F – Grading Procedure 81
Board/Central Administration/Guidance Back Cover
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STUDENT HANDBOOK
GENERAL INFORMATION
Students are expected to use this book for the following reasons:
1. To become familiar with the rules and the regulations of Old Bridge High School.
2. Due to the importance of the Student Handbook, if lost, it is available on the high
school website.
EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS All students of Old Bridge High School are expected to fulfill the academic and
behavioral expectations of the school and to:
- Prepare them mentally and physically for the process of learning.
- Demonstrate respect for people and property by assisting the school staff in
running a safe and pleasant school for all individuals enrolled or employed within.
- Share information to protect the safety and welfare of the school community.
- Be responsible for own behavior and learning.
- Use time and other resources wisely and responsibly.
- Dress in a manner that meets standards of propriety.
- Share responsibilities and express opinions and ideas in a respectful manner when
working as members of a group.
- Meet the attendance and academic requirements of each class.
- Communicate and cooperate with parents and school personnel in reference to
school related matters.
- Adhere to appropriate conduct at all school sponsored activities which are held on
or off school grounds, e.g., athletic events, field trips, cultural and social
programs, etc.
HELPFUL HINTS 1. Always feel free to consult your teachers, your counselor, the Vice Principals, or
the Principal if any problem troubles you.
2. Be prompt in reporting to your classes. Do not stand in the doorway of your
classroom waiting for the last bell.
3. Study the map of the school to find the most direct and least congested route to
your destination.
4. Be sure to put your name and first period classroom number in all of your books.
Every book should have a cover.
5. Take an interest in extra-curricular activities. Join a club and/or go out for a sport.
6. As a high school student it is important that you learn to speak, write, and read
well. Take every opportunity to do so.
STUDY HINTS
Students are responsible to make arrangements with teachers for extra help, which is
available Monday through Thursday.
1. Have a regular study program and follow it carefully.
2. Try to work under proper study conditions. Before you begin your work try to
have, at hand, all necessary books and materials if possible.
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3. Study independently as well as with a study group. Do your own work and use
your own judgment.
4. A planner should be used to record all assignments.
5. Take notes in class so that you will know exactly what is expected of you.
6. Prepare your hardest work first while you are fresh for concentration. If you grow
tired, change to a different subject.
7. While studying for the next day’s class, be sure to review what was done in class.
Go over new material first for general knowledge, then carefully, section by
section.
8. When learning memory selections, learn them as a whole. Go over material
quickly, then more carefully until you have memorized it all. Repeat the selection
several times that day and at least twice daily for several days.
BATHROOM/LAVATORY USE
Ample time is allotted for students to use the bathrooms during the bathroom schedule
time periods, during change of classes, during lunch, and while in physical education
class. Students’ use of these facilities is left to the discretion of the teacher. The use of
the bathrooms during class time is not a right; it is a privilege.
CHANGING CLASSES
Students will be allowed five minutes to change classes. On the fifth minute, the bell to
begin class will sound. All students are expected to be in their assigned seats and ready
to work before the bell rings to start the next period. During the changing of classes,
students are expected to be courteous and orderly in the halls, stairwells, etc. It is each
student’s responsibility to arrive to class on time. Remember, two unexcused lates to
class equals one unexcused absence to that class.
EARLY OUT/LATE ARRIVAL – SENIOR PRIVILEGE
Seniors who are in good standing may apply for late arrival and/or early dismissal for
their senior year. Late arrival/early dismissal shall be a privilege. As such, it may be
revoked at any time by administration for failure to remain in good standing and/or
violations of school rules.
1. Student is a member of the senior class and in good standing. Good standing
shall mean the student:
a. Is scheduled for four (4) classes plus English IV and Physical
Education.
b. Is projected to meet all graduation requirements by the end of the
current school year.
c. Is not at risk academically (i.e. passing all scheduled classes)
2. Students who are granted an early dismissal may not be on school property
following their dismissal time without prior approval of administration.
Seniors participating in after-school activities/athletics may return to the
school property after the general dismissal time (2:06 pm), once the school
buses have departed the property.
3. Students who are granted Late Arrival must report to school each day early
enough to check-in in the cafeteria and arrive to their first scheduled class on
time. Failure to do this may result in having this privilege revoked.
4. Students provide their own transportation to/from school.
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5. Student athletes must meet the eligibility requirements of NJSIAA (i.e. pass
all scheduled classes).
FIRE DRILL DIRECTIONS
Unless specifically announced at the outset, all exits from the building will be used for
the purpose of fire drills. The signal for a fire drill is the continuous ringing of the fire
alarm bells.
1. When the fire alarm bells are sounded, pupils will be led out of the building by
their classroom teacher. If the bells ring during change of class or during lunch,
all students should leave the building by the nearest exit. A quiet and orderly exit
is required for cooperation, communication, and safety. All windows in the
classroom are to be closed, and the last person leaving the room is to make sure
that the lights are turned off and that the door is closed.
2. Fire drill evacuation instructions are posted by the door in each classroom.
3. Students are to remain with their teachers. Teachers will take attendance. Any
student not reporting to their teacher will receive an unexcused late, and may incur
further disciplinary action.
4. The safety of all persons in the building depends upon the correct and orderly
departure of each individual.
5. Leave the building quickly, in an orderly manner, and without conversation.
6. In the event of an emergency, remain with your teacher and wait for further
instructions.
FLAG SALUTE AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
New Jersey law requires that students show respect for the flag of the United States of
America. A student who is conscientiously opposed to the Pledge or Salute may
abstain from these ceremonies but is required to be respectful.
HALLWAY PASSES
Any student wishing to leave a classroom during the school day must request a pass
from his/her teacher. Any student found outside of the classroom without a pass will
be subject to disciplinary action.
HOMEROOM/PERIOD ONE Attendance for school records will be taken during Period 1- Homeroom. Students
arrive at 7:35 a.m. for Period 1/Homeroom. Homeroom will be designated as the first
five minutes of period 1 (7:35 a.m. – 7:40 a.m.) Students arriving after 7:35 a.m. will
be considered late for school unless it is excused (see Late to School Policy).
IDENTIFICATION TAGS
All students receive an ID tag and are required to present the ID upon request. All
visitors to Old Bridge High School will be issued a temporary visitors pass after
producing a valid photo I.D.
LATE BUS
Loitering in the areas outside the school building is prohibited. If you choose to remain
on school grounds after the dismissal bell, you must be under the direct supervision of a
staff member, advisor, or coach. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action.
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Students participating in extracurricular activities can catch the late bus at
approximately 3:00pm and 4:00pm.
LIBRARY OVERDUE BOOK POLICY - Books are signed out for two weeks. If
you need books longer than two weeks, bring them to the library to be renewed. If your
books are overdue, the library will notify you personally of the oversight. With the
second notification, you may be assigned Administrative Detention.
PASSES - You must have a pass from your teacher to go to the library during class.
Passes from substitute teachers will not be accepted.
LOCKERS - HALL/PHYSICAL EDUCATION
A locker is assigned to each student. It is the student’s responsibility to report to the
Main Office, immediately, any mechanical problems regarding his/her locker. The
school is not responsible for stolen or lost articles or books. Any personal locks on
lockers will be cut off.
Students should not give their locker combination to any other student or allow others
to use their locker. While students are permitted to go to their lockers between classes,
this privilege will not be accepted as an excuse for being late to class. Students are
requested not to bring large sums of money or expensive items of jewelry, credit cards,
personal electronic devices, etc. to school. Students should not consider lockers as
private property. At times throughout the year, Administration may choose to inspect
lockers in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the school community. All
lockers are subject to search.
All lockers are emptied and cleaned by the end of the school year. It is the student’s
responsibility to take home all articles of value. Those articles collected by the
custodial staff during the summer are given to non-profit organizations or discarded.
Students are reminded to secure personal items in their physical education lockers
when taking gym. Old Bridge High School will not be responsible for any items lost or
stolen.
LOST AND FOUND
Any student who loses personal or school property should inquire about the lost article
in the Main Office or the Lost and Found box located outside the cafeteria. Likewise,
any student finding lost items should bring them to the Main Office or he/she will be
held responsible. Lost books will be sent to the appropriate department office. Students
in possession of lost or stolen property will be disciplined by the administration.
LUNCH
Lunch is an assigned period of the day and students are expected to report to the
cafeteria within the four minute passing time. Students are expected to clean up their
immediate area after eating, deposit all refuse in the trash cans, and properly return
trays to the tray window. Students who fail to comply with requests from faculty and
staff, including requests to discard trash from tabletops, will be subject to disciplinary
actions. For reasons of security, the agreement between the Board of Education and the
cafeteria food service provider and the orderly operation of the building, students are
prohibited from ordering food from an outside provider and having said food delivered
to the school building during the school day. Students may not leave the lunchroom
without obtaining a pass from a teacher or library before their lunch period.
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PARTICIPATION IN AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES/PROMS
Same day school attendance is required for students to participate in after-school
activities. (Examples include but are not limited to: proms, sporting events, dances,
plays, concerts, etc.) The administration reserves the right to grant or deny permission
to attend a school related activity for any student that is not enrolled at Old Bridge High
School including the Junior and Senior Prom. Attendance at the Junior and/or Senior
prom is a student privilege. Old Bridge High School students who are permitted to
attend the Junior and/or Senior prom do not \have the right to bring any guest that
he/she chooses. All guests of Old Bridge High School students must be pre-approved
by the administration. Guests who are older than 21 years of age will not be permitted
to attend the prom. Guests with a history of misconduct or criminal behavior – either in
or out of school – will not be permitted to attend the prom. Students who anticipate
requesting permission to bring an outside guest to the prom must secure permission
prior to purchasing a prom bid. Failure to do so could warrant forfeiture of the cost of
the bid.
REALTIME ALERT SYSTEM
Old Bridge Township Public Schools uses the RealTime Alert System as a means to
communicate with parents, staff, and students. Students and parents are required to
make sure their contact information is current by updating using the “Contacts” tab on
the Parent Portal.
SCHOOL CLOSING/DELAYED OPENING ANNOUNCEMENTS
There may be occasions when inclement weather and/or other conditions will
necessitate the canceling of school for the day or delaying the opening. Information
pertaining to school closings or delayed openings will be given on radio stations
WCTC-1450 AM and 101.5 FM, a RealTime Alert, OBHS website and Twitter. If a
delayed opening occurs, school will open two hours later than normally. Buses will
operate on their regular routes at a two hour delay.
SCHOOL PROPERTY
Books and supplies are Board of Education property and on loan to students. They are
provided as a means to help pupils gain an education. Students are responsible for
books and supplies issued to them. If books, sports equipment, uniforms, etc. are lost,
stolen or damaged, students in whose names they are issued must pay for replacement.
Parent(s) or guardian(s) of students who willfully and or recklessly damage or deface
school property, including buildings, grounds, and vehicles parked on school property,
may be liable for the cost incurred by the Board of Education to repair or replace the
property that was damaged or defaced.
SCHOOL RINGS
Each year, sophomores and juniors have the opportunity to order school rings from our
ring company. Sophomores may order rings in the spring of their sophomore year and
will receive their rings in the fall of their junior year. Similarly, juniors may order
school rings in the spring of their junior year, and will receive the ring in the fall of
their senior year. A representative will come to the school during lunches for ring
ordering and distribution.
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SCHOOL STORE The school store serves both students and staff. Many items needed for school, such as
notebooks, paper, pens, report covers, slide rules, protractors, etc., as well as an
assortment of clothing and other items are available.
SCHOOL TRIPS
All students participating in a school-sponsored field trip must submit written
permission from a parent or guardian before boarding any transportation. Students
who are disciplinary problems may have their supplemental field trip privilege revoked.
All school rules and policies are in effect at all school-sponsored activities, unless
otherwise noted in pre-trip student contract. Parents and students are responsible for
transportation to and from all events, unless otherwise provided by OBHS. Supervision
will be provided 30 minutes beyond the conclusion of the event or activity. Any
students remaining beyond the 30 minute period may be reported to Old Bridge Police
Department.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Telephones in the office are provided for student to use before and after school and
during lunch periods. Students are not to use the phone during class time unless it is an
emergency, with administrative approval.
VISITORS
All visitors must show identification, sign in and wear a visitor’s pass while in the
school building. No student visitors are allowed at Old Bridge High School, during the
school day, without prior administrative approval.
YEARBOOK
Each student will receive a letter in the mail from our yearbook company. This letter
will outline the ordering process for yearbooks and will be sent out in the Fall of each
school year. Anyone may order a yearbook directly from the yearbook company.
Those who decide not to order a yearbook in the fall may still purchase a yearbook, but
will do so in June at a higher cost. When yearbooks arrive, the first two days of the
yearbook sales will be “Seniors Only” days. After that, yearbooks will be sold to
everyone while supplies last.
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ACADEMICS: POLICIES AND PROCEDURES GRADUATION POLICY
Board policy and state law determine graduation requirements. Those requirements
include: a minimum accumulation of 120 credits; successful passing of the state
mandated High School Proficiency Assessment (HSPA) or successful completion of
the approved SRA program, and fulfillment of the attendance requirements.
1. Twenty (20) credits in English
2. Fifteen (15) credits in non-BSIP mathematics
3. Fifteen (15) credits in social studies
4. Fifteen (15) credits of natural or physical science
5. Physical Education, health and safety 3 ¾ credits each year
6. Five (5) credits in the visual, practical, or performing arts (i.e. dance, music,
theatre or visual art)
7. Five (5) credits in career education and consumer, family, and life skills often
referred to as the “practical arts.”
8. Five (5) credits in world languages.
9. One-half year of career education/cross-content, workplace readiness, which
may be satisfied through infusion into existing courses, course equivalents, or
career education courses
Pupils requiring special education programs must meet the graduation requirements
indicated by the prescriptions of their individualized education programs (IEP).
No senior may participate in the graduation ceremony unless he or she has fulfilled all
requirements before graduation day including monetary obligations to the school. A
high school senior who lacks no more than 2 graduation requirement courses will be
allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony upon signing an agreement that the
student will attend summer school to complete the necessary course requirements.
GRADE LEVEL PROMOTION CREDIT REQUIREMENT
A student must have successfully completed a minimum number of credits in order to
be promoted to the next grade level. The minimum credit requirements are as follows:
Grade 9 to 10 – 25 completed credits
Grade 10 to 11 - 50 completed credits
Grade 11 to 12 - 75 completed credits
Graduation - 120 credits
CHANGE/ADD/DROP OF COURSES
No changes will be permitted at student’s initiation after September 16th. Students who
are removed from a course, for any reason, by the high school administration, will have
indicated on their permanent record a “W” for withdrew, providing the student is
passing the course at the time of removal.
Students not meeting with success in an upper level course may request a change to a
lower level course. This request will be honored provided seats are available in the
class the student is requesting and the change in level does not necessitate a change in
another course. The change is also contingent upon the availability of seats in all
classes involved. However, under no circumstance will a change in course level be
made after the start of the 3rd marking period for general education students. Because
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of grade weighting factors, students may not change from a lower level course to a
higher level course (i.e. Honors to AP) after September 16th.
COURSE OFFERINGS Old Bridge High School offers students a wide range of course offerings of both
academic and vocational orientation at varying levels. Knowledge of the scope and
sequence of these courses should strengthen the partnership of pupils, parents,
professional staff, and all community members in promoting learning. Certain courses
are offered at an accelerated level and/or go well beyond the scope of normal high
school requirements. These courses are weighted for the purposes of class rank
computation by assigning one additional quality point for each credit earned. In
addition, anyone enrolled in an Advanced Placement course will receive two additional
quality points for each credit earned.
COURSE LOAD
All students must take a minimum of eight subjects and lunch. Seniors in a co-op
and/or senior privilege late arrival/early release program will be permitted to
arrive/leave school at the beginning/end of their assigned classes.
EXAMS FOR MIDTERMS AND FINALS
Students who are absent for either a midterm or final examination will be required to
produce a doctor’s note in order to take the makeup exam. Students who return to
school with a note will be required to take the makeup exam on the day they return to
school. Students who do not have a doctor’s note will be given a grade of “F” for the
exam. Students are not permitted to take midterm or final exams prior to the scheduled
date of the exam without administrative approval. Only in the most exceptional
circumstances will permission be granted.
GRADING RUBRIC (See Appendix F)
The grading scale at Old Bridge High School will be as follows:
Grade Range A+ 98 - 100
A 93 - 97
A- 90 - 92
B+ 87 - 89
B 83 - 86
B- 80 - 82
C+ 77 - 79
C 73 - 76
C- 70 - 72
D 65 - 69
F 64 & Below
GRADE POINT AVERAGE
The Grade Point Average (GPA) for students will be based upon the following
mathematical formula:
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A) Quality Points will be computed by assigning a numerical value to each
grade, which is multiplied by the total number of credits assigned to each
course. This number is the total number of Quality Points.
B) GPA is determined by dividing the total number of Quality Points by the
total number of credits attempted.
WEIGHTED FACTOR
GRADE REGULAR HONORS AP
A+ 4.6 5.6 6.6
A 4.3 5.3 6.3
A- 4.0 5.0 6.0
B+ 3.6 4.6 5.6
B 3.3 4.3 5.3
B- 3.0 4.0 5.0
C+ 2.6 3.6 4.6
C 2.3 3.3 4.3
C- 2.0 3.0 4.0
D 1.3 2.3 3.3
F 0.0 0.0 0.0
Formula Example
COURSE GRADE EQUIV. X CREDIT= POINTS
Eng I A+ 4.6 X 5 23.00
World
History
B+
3.6
X
5
18.00
Algebra I
Honors
B
4.3
X
5
21.50
Spanish I A 4.3 X 5 21.50
Phys. Ed. C 2.3 X 3.8 8.74
Health D 1.3 X 1.2 1.56
Integrated
Science
C+
2.6
X
5
13.00
Mythology B+ 3.6 X 2.5 9.00
Total
Quality
Points
116.3
Total
Number of
Credits
32.5
TOTAL QUALITY POINTS DIVIDED BY TOTAL CREDITS ATTEMPTED =
GRADE POINT AVERAGE Example: 116.3 DIVIDED BY 32.5 = 3.58 (GPA)
HONOR ROLL CRITERIA
High Honor Roll: Any grade combinations of A-, A, or A+
Honor Roll: Any grade combinations of B-, B, B+, A-, A, or A+.
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HOME INSTRUCTION
Home instruction is available for students who will be absent for an extended period of
time because of medical/health problems. Since it usually takes two weeks to initiate
home instruction, parents should apply for home instruction with a written request from
a licensed medical and/or dental physician through the student’s guidance counselor.
All such requests must include the doctor’s diagnosis and an estimate of the duration of
the absence. Each request will be verified by the school nurse and the board physician.
For re-admission to school after an extended illness and home instruction, a doctor’s
note must be presented to the school nurse. In order for a student who is on home
instruction to participate in any extra-curricular function, a written statement from the
treating physician along with prior administrative approval must be obtained. No
senior on home instruction may participate in the graduation ceremony unless
he/she has fulfilled ALL marching requirements BEFORE graduation day.
INCOMPLETE GRADES
Students who have received an incomplete for a marking period or semester grade will
be given ten (10) school days to complete the necessary work. If the work is not
completed within ten (10) school days, the incomplete grade will automatically become
an F. Teachers may submit grade change forms at a later date in cases where there
were extenuating circumstances.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports are available on the Parent Portal during the mid-period of each
marking period. There is a two-fold purpose for these reports: to inform those students
and their parents that the student may be in danger of failing for the marking period if
greater effort and progress isn’t forthcoming; and, to inform those students and their
parents that the student is doing satisfactory and above average work. In addition,
attendance information is reported to the parent(s). Excessive lates to school and class
will be reported to parents, counselors, and administrators.
SUMMER SCHOOL
Any student who takes a replacement course of 60 hours in summer school will have
the original grade of F recorded on their transcript. Upon completion of the summer
school course, a separate summer school grade will be recorded on the transcript.
Students must complete the lower level sequence of any course before enrolling in the
higher level course (i.e. US History I to US History II). Students are not permitted to
“double-up” on courses with the exception of physical education in his/her senior year
without prior administrative approval.
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ATHLETIC PROGRAM
ATHLETICS/SPORTS PROGRAM
The philosophy of our interscholastic athletic program is to play the best competition
available. This commitment to excellence has produced a program that is recognized
and respected throughout the state. Old Bridge is a member of the New Jersey
Interscholastic Athletic Association and the Greater Middlesex Conference.
SPORTS OFFERINGS Varsity JV Freshman
Fall
Cheerleading X X
Boys Cross Country X
Girls Cross Country X
Field Hockey X X X
Football X X X
Girls Gymnastics X
Boys Soccer X X X
Girls Soccer X X X
Girls Tennis X
Girls Volleyball X X
Winter
Boys Basketball X X X
Girls Basketball X X X
Boys Bowling X
Girls Bowling X
Boys Swimming X
Girls Swimming X
Boys Winter Track X
Girls Winter Track X
Wrestling X X X
Ice Hockey X X
Spring
Baseball X X X
Boys Golf X
Girls Golf X
Boys Lacrosse X X
Varsity JV Freshman
Girls Lacrosse X X
Softball X X X
Boys Tennis X
Boys Spring Track X
Girls Spring Track X
Boys Volleyball X X
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Candidates for all teams wishing to participate at the High School must meet the
academic standards established by the Board of Education. In addition, the High
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School candidates must follow the rules set forth by the New Jersey State
Interscholastic Athletic Association. (NJSIAA)
Board of Education Policy 2431, Athletic Competition
Eligibility Standards
A pupil who wishes to participate in athletic competition must submit, on a form
provided by the district, the signed consent of his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
The consent of parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a pupil who wishes to participate in
interscholastic athletics must include an acknowledgement of the physical hazards that
may be encountered in the sport.
Pupil participation in athletic competition shall be governed by the following eligibility
standards:
A pupil in grade 10, 11, or 12 who in the previous school year earned twenty-five
percent of the total number of credits required by the State for graduation is eligible for
participation in sports in the fall and winter seasons. A pupil in grade 9, 10, 11, or 12
who in the fall semester earned twelve and one-half percent of the total number of
credits required by the State for graduation is eligible for participation in sports in the
spring season. A pupil who is eligible at the start of a sports season remains eligible for
that entire sports season regardless of his/her grades at the end of a marking period.
N.J. STATE INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION ELIGIBILITY
Rules apply to all Freshman, Sophomore, Junior Varsity, and Varsity teams
representing High School (Girls and Boys).
1. ELIGIBLE is a student has not reached the age of 19 prior to September 1.
2. ELIGIBLE FOR THE FIRST SEMESTER (September 1 to January 31) is a
student has passed 25% of the credits required by the State of New Jersey for
graduation, during the immediately preceding academic year, i.e. 27.5 credits.
A student must earn 30 credits during the preceding academic year.
ELIGIBLE FOR SECOND SEMESTER – (February 1 to June 30) if a
student has passed the equivalent of 12 ½% of the credits required by the
State of New Jersey for graduation at the close of the preceding semester
(January 31), i.e. 13.75 credits. A student must earn 15 credits at the close of
the preceding semester. Full year courses shall be equated as one-half of the
total credits to be gained for the full year to determine credits passed during
the immediately preceding semester.
3. ELIGIBLE immediately if transfer because of a change of residence to
another public secondary school district by parents or as approved by the
Executive Committee.
4. ELIGIBLE after thirty (30) days from first game/meet of a sport at present
school, if student received a varsity award at previous school the previous
year and transferred from one school to another when parents have not
moved from one public school district to another public school district and
only after “Transfer Waiver Form” has been completed and processed by
both schools.
5. ELIGIBLE if no influence used to retain or recruit the student.
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6. ELIGIBLE to represent his/her present school, if a student’s parents move to
another public school district maintaining a secondary school of equal grade
or higher provided he/she remains properly enrolled, any subsequent transfer
will be subject to the transfer provisions.
7. NOT ELIGIBLE after the completion of 8 semesters following a student’s
entrance into the 9th grade.
8. NOT ELIGIBLE after the class in which a student originally enrolled
graduates, regardless of transfer from any school during the 3 or 4 year
period.
9. NOT ELIGIBLE for thirty (30) days from entrance into present school, if
transferring from one school to another when parents have not moved from
public school district to another, regardless of reason. Not eligible until the
“Transfer Waiver Form” has been processed.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Athletes are expected to accept many additional responsibilities that are an integral part
of athlete’s life. These responsibilities are expected of people who are chosen to be a
part of the high school interscholastic athletic program. Your primary responsibility is
to maintain the best possible physical and mental condition to be ready to perform at
your best level. This requires adherence to our district and your coaches prescribed
training rules.
You will also be responsible for the equipment and supplies issued to you as part of the
tools of the game. These items are the property of the Board of Education and should
be returned upon completion of the season. If school equipment is not returned or the
Athletic Department is not reimbursed for lost equipment, the matter will be turned
over to the School Administration. In some instances, student athletes may use their
own equipment as long as the coach has approved it.
Athletes represent the total school community; therefore, there is a responsibility on
your part to reflect the best possible image for the privilege of such representation.
Your personal conduct in and out of school, your appearance, classroom behavior and
general conduct of all activities, in the arena of athletics and at social functions, should
always exemplify the department and citizenship most highly favored.
You have a final responsibility, one that is considered by athletes as the most ultimate
of all responsibilities, that is the responsibility to your coach and teammates for
maintaining yourself in such manner to be able to perform at peak effectiveness at all
times. For whatever you do or do not do as team member, affect all of your teammates
either in a positive or negative way. You cannot take your decision and commitment to
participate in interscholastic athletics lightly and only in the context as to what it will
do for you. Your decision to participate ultimately affects your coach, teammate,
school, community and parents.
TRYOUT/PRACTICES/GAMES
Coaches conduct preseason meetings to explain procedures, policies and inform
prospects of important dates. The starting dates for tryouts/practices may vary for
different sports. This information can be obtained from our Athletic Hotline (732-360-
4443) or by calling the Athletic Directors office (732-290-3924). Of utmost
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importance is the pre-participation physical. No student will be allowed to tryout
without prior medical clearance. This has been explained in a previous section. High
School starting dates for each season are determined by the NJSIAA. Generally
speaking, the starting dates are as follows.
Fall: Two Weeks prior to Labor Day.
Winter: The Friday after Thanksgiving except for Swimming, Bowling and
Ice Hockey which starts November 15.
Spring: The first Friday in March.
The number of participants in some athletic programs is limited. This means that some
prospective participants are eliminated from the squad, based upon the determination of
the head coach and his/her staff; The head coach makes the final decision in such cases.
Head coaches must make difficult decisions regarding which athletes play, when, and
how much. We ask parents and students to respect the decisions of the coach. It would
be virtually impossible for an athletic program to function if a coach were unable to
make decisions regarding the amounts of playing time and which athletes play during
the contests.
Each athlete is given a tryout for their respective team, provided the athlete is eligible
and has turned in all of the proper forms. Team selections in a given sport will be done
after sufficient time has passed to assess the abilities of the candidates. Roster selection
is the responsibility of the coach.
At the High School, the student can expect to practice daily for about two hours
Monday through Saturday. Practices and contests are scheduled over all vacations and
attendance is expected. Games, which might conflict with major religious observances,
will not be scheduled. Practices may be held on a religious holiday. In these instances:
the students have a responsibility to their religious commitment. There will be no
repercussions and their team status will not be affected if the student does not attend
practice due to a religious commitment.
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ATTENDANCE POLICY Any high school student exceeding sixteen (16) absences that do not fall within the
category of excused days or are not waived by the appeals committee will not receive
any credit for courses taken and will be required to repeat those courses. Regular
attendance is essential to the successful completion of a course of study, and pupils are
expected to be present every day that school is in session. Students with continuous
absences beyond 10 days require removal of the student from the school rolls. Students
who have been removed must re-register upon their return to school. Absences may be
considered EXCUSED ABSENCES in accordance with the following:
A. Absences must be verifiable, therefore, the doctor’s note must be an original
with the name, address, and phone number provided. No copies or faxed
notes. The doctor’s note must be submitted within five (5) days upon return
to school to the Attendance Office. Failure to submit a note within five (5)
days will result in the absences counting among the allotted sixteen absences.
B. Students who submit forged health care provider notes will be subject to
discipline. Further, any date(s) for which a forged note is submitted will be
forfeited from being classified as an unexcused absence.
C. Death in the family. Five (5) days for immediate family (parent, grandparent,
sibling) should include weekends and holidays and be verified.
D. Absences waived upon decision of the Appeals Committee. (See APPEALS
section).
E. MAKE-UP WORK - Students who have missed school for a legal reason
are entitled to make up assignments. Students with a medically excused
absence shall be allowed two days for each day they were legally absent to
make up class work upon their return to school. It is the student’s
responsibility to obtain any missed assignments, class work, or tests from the
teacher due to any absence.
F. Students who are absent from school may not participate in any after-school
activity.
G. Bona fide religious holidays in accordance with the Commissioner of
Education’s list.
H. Students who travel for emergency reasons (i.e., personal family situations,
traveling to visit relatives, etc.) and are absent from school must apply these
absences to the 16 days allotted by board policy for unexcused absences.
ABSENCES
If the Attendance Office does not receive a call from a parent or guardian stating the
student is going to be absent, the parent or guardian will receive a call from the
Attendance Office inquiring about the absence. The office may either call home or
parent’s place of employment. Parents must contact the school Attendance Office by
9:00 a.m. to report a student’s absence. This does not constitute an excused absence.
APPEALS Since the District recognizes that extenuating circumstances may exist in isolated cases
regarding the absence of students beyond those covered by the ATTENDANCE
POLICY, Old Bridge H.S. has established an Appeals Committee comprised of staff
members to review any appeal regarding any absence from students and his/her parent
or guardian. An Appeal Form can be submitted for any absence, beginning with the
first, if a parent or student feels there are extenuating circumstances as to the reason for
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the absence. An appeal form must be completed and submitted in a timely manner. The
Appeals Committee will consider the appeal and submit their recommendation to the
Principal. Recognizing the importance of school attendance, the Old Bridge Board of
Education excludes school year vacations as bonafide reasons for appeal. Said vacation
days will be included in the cumulative sixteen day absence policy.
In addition, Old Bridge H.S. has developed procedures in accordance with the District
policy for the periodic notification of parents if the number of absences increases, and
upon the accumulation of the sixteenth and final absence. Letters will be sent on the
8th, 12th, 16th and 17th absence for all full year courses. For courses that are half year
or 1 marking period, classroom teachers will send courtesy notification when a student
is in danger of losing credit for the course.
CONSEQUENCES RELATING TO ATTENDANCE
1. Two (2) unexcused lates to class equal one (1) unexcused absence. A class
cut is an unexcused absence.
2. Upon exceeding sixteen (16) illegal/unexcused absences from a full year
class, no credit will be given for that class, and a grade of “L” will appear on
the report card.
3. Students in less than a full year class will receive an “L” if they exceed four
absences in a marking period class, eight unexcused absences in a semester
class and twelve unexcused absences in a physical education class.
4. When a student receives an “L” grade he/she must attend summer school or
make up the class the next school year to achieve credit. Upon completion of
the summer school course, a separate summer school grade will be recorded
on the transcript.
5. A student must provide proof to the Attendance Office within five (5) school
days that an absence should be excused.
6. The Attendance Office will publish a weekly list of all students with excused
absences.
7. No senior may participate in graduation unless he/she has fulfilled all
marching requirements before graduation day.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Students who are under 18 years of age may not, under any circumstances, sign
themselves out of school for medical or personal reasons without prior written parent
consent. If your child needs to leave school early on any given day, you must submit a
note to the school in advance. No student will be released early from school on a
verbal authorization from a parent. If we receive a parental note in advance of the
student’s release, the school will contact the parent with a home, cell, or work phone
number on file to verify the authenticity of the request. Notes which indicate
“personal” as the reason for being excused will not be accepted. It is requested that
medical appointments not be made during school time. Proper identification (ex.
driver’s license) is required when picking up a child for early release.
Students who are 18 years of age or older, by law, are permitted to sign out of school.
Hoever, the school will contact the parent with a home, cell, or work phone number on
file to verify the authenticity of the request. Students are not permitted to return to
school without a documented note (i.e. doctor, dentist, etc.)
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Please understand that this policy is in place to ensure student safety. This policy will
be consistently enforced by the high school administration, attendance office, and
health office.
EXCUSED ABSENCE - DRIVER’S LICENSE An excused absence will only be honored for a scheduled ROAD TEST for the purpose
of obtaining a driver’s license. Getting a permit, getting a permit validated or making
an appointment for a road test are not valid reasons to be absent from school, since
Motor Vehicle Agencies are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and at least one night a
week.
LATE TO SCHOOL IF YOU ARRIVE LATE TO SCHOOL, YOU MUST REPORT DIRECTLY TO THE
ATTENDANCE OFFICE UPON ENTERING THE BUILDING TO SIGN-IN.
Students arriving to period one or any succeeding period more than ten minutes late
without a valid excuse will be regarded as absent from that class and will not be given
credit for that period. Such absence will be counted as unexcused. (See Attendance
Policy) Arriving late to school will result in discipline according to the following
schedule:
Late to school – 5th offense – 1 After School Detention
Late to school – 10th offense – 1 Saturday Detention
Late to school – 15th offense – 1 AIP
Students who reach over 15 lates to school will be subject to escalating discipline at the
discretion of the administration.
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GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT/ COUNSELING
SERVICES The purpose of counseling is to serve the student by providing assistance with
educational problems and concerns. Homeroom teachers have forms which can be
used for making appointments with counselors. Completed request forms are sent in
the attendance envelope in the morning. Counselors will set appointments, as
requested, as soon as possible.
Parents are urged to contact the Guidance Department to make appointments for
consultations with counselors and/or teachers. Students’ needs can best be served
through understanding and cooperation between the home and school.
COUNSELING STAFF
The counseling staff seeks to help each student develop to his/her fullest potential.
Each student is assigned to a counselor who is trained to help students in their
educational, personal, social, and career development. Specifically, the counselor’s
role is to assist students in the development of greater self-awareness, independence,
decision-making skills, coping skills and positive self-regard which will make students
productive members of society. Various resources may be called upon to assist
students. These resources include school personnel, community agencies, and the
parents. Counselors meet with students either individually or in groups. Topics such
as academic achievement, planning for future employment or college, and personal
problems are all within the scope of the counselor. Confidentiality is an important
factor in the student-counselor relationship. Counselors will meet with students for
emergencies immediately. Counselors work closely with parents and teachers. Parents
may call upon a counselor as the key person dealing with the student’s total program.
Counselors are readily available to speak to parents on the phone or will make an
appointment to see them in person. Counselors also have information concerning
community resources which are available to assist families with severe problems.
Moreover, the high school has available a Child Study Team comprised of a
psychologist, a learning disabilities specialist, and a social worker. These professionals
are available when deemed necessary.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS/TELEPHONE NUMBER Whenever a student moves to a new address or receives a new telephone number, it is
essential that this information be reported to his/her guidance counselor immediately in
order that the official records might reflect the changed status.
COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER
College applications, transcript requests, and any other material may be dropped off in
the College and Career Center from 7:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. All official transcripts
must be mailed from the school. Remember to allow at least three weeks lead time for
processing. It is the student’s responsibility to check deadline dates. Also students can
learn about and apply for local employment opportunities.
COLLEGE VISITATIONS/CAREER EXPLORATION
College visitations or career exploration days must be approved by an administrator.
Verification of all college visits and career exploration days must be documented on
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official/business stationary. Students will be allotted a maximum of 3 total days for
college visitations or career exploration during their high school career.
RE-ENTRY PROCEDURE
Any student having withdrawn from Old Bridge High School and wishing to reenter
may do so upon the recommendation of the Principal. If reentry occurs within the same
school year, all attendance records and grades earned will revert back to official date of
departure.
TRANSFER/WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE
Before a student will be permitted to withdraw from Old Bridge High School, the
following procedures must be followed:
- The student’s parent/guardian (on file at school) must come in (if student is under
18 years of age), present I.D., and sign a withdrawal form. If a student is
transferring to another school, the school and location must be indicated on the
form.
- The student must complete the form by having it signed by all teachers listed, the
nurse, the librarian, and the attendance clerk.
- Return of all books and materials is required.
WORKING PAPERS
Working paper can be obtained at the main reception desk. Before applying, each
student should make certain that the job is appropriate for his/her age group. It is
necessary that two forms be executed. The first form is the Physician’s Certificate.
Arrangements for the physical examination by a doctor must be made by the student.
The second form is a Promise of Employment, which is to be signed by the prospective
employer. All forms, together with the student’s Birth Certificate must be returned to
the main reception desk. The Birth Certificate will be returned to the student after it
has been recorded.
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STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
Following are a few simple regulations, which are required of students in order that we
may help maintain the health and safety of all our students.
SCHOOL HEALTH OFFICE
The school nurse is available for any student who is ill or injured. A student who
becomes ill during class time will receive a pass from his/her classroom teacher to
report directly to the nurse. Students who become ill during the change of class are to
report to their next period class and receive a pass from their teacher before reporting to
the nurse. Students who claim they became ill and spent the time in the lavatory will be
looked upon as cutting class.
ACCIDENTS AND INSURANCE The school will administer immediate first aid in case of an accident. The emergency
squad will be summoned if deemed necessary. School insurance will only be in effect
after the family’s primary insurance has reached maximum. In the case of an accident,
no matter how minor, the student should report that accident to his/her teacher. The
student should be directed to the nurse for attention. In the case of severe accident or
acute illness, emergency care will be given and the parent(s) will be notified. On such
occasions it is essential that we have on file the student’s updated EMERGENCY
CARD.
EXCUSES FROM PHYSICAL EDUCATION
An excuse from active participation in physical education exceeding two days will
require a note or certificate from a physician indicating the date the student is to return
to gym activities and any limitations. This information is filed on the student’s health
record in the Nurse’s Office. A student may be assigned elsewhere if the excuse is for
an extended time. This is to be arranged through the student’s guidance counselor.
Students excused from active participation will be required to complete written
assignments to determine their grade. Students excused from gym classes may not
participate in extra-curricular activities that involve physical exertion unless otherwise
indicated by a physician.
EXTENDED ILLNESS/COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Students returning to school after recovering from an extended illness or communicable
disease will not be readmitted without proper medical clearance from a local physician
presented to the Nurse’s Office.
IMMUNIZATION
An immunization law has been passed by the New Jersey State Department of Health
mandating immunization for pupils enrolled in any school in New Jersey. According to
the law, students will be excluded from school if immunizations are not as follows:
- Every student must have had three (3) doses of DT
- Every student must have three (3) doses of oral polio or three (3) doses of
enhanced IPV (Salk) or four (4) doses of conventional IPV.
- Every student must have two (2) dose of measles, mumps, and rubella, given after
the first birthday of laboratory evidence of immunity, if born after 1990.
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- Students entering grades 9, 10, 11, &12 must have had the Hepatitis B vaccine
before entering.
- Students entering from out-of-state may be required to have a Mantoux Test.
- Students entering from out-of-country are required to have a Mantoux Test.
MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
If a student becomes ill or injured during school time and does not require ambulance
service but is recommended to go home, it is the responsibility of the parent to provide
transportation. Students under the age of 18 may not be sent home without a parent or
guardian and no student may drive when excused for medical reasons (unless parental
consent has been given).
MEDICATION
Any medication including over the counter medication that needs to be given in school
requires a doctor’s order and written permission from the parent. Medication must be
in a properly labeled prescription container and must be brought to the nurse’s office
upon arrival to school. Over the counter medication, for which a doctor’s order is
provided, must be brought to school in a sealed, unopened container. (The exception is
Tylenol, which may be given to those students by the nurse who have obtained and
returned annually, from the nurse’s office, the proper form indicating parental
permission.)
SCOLIOSIS SCREENING According to New Jersey State Law, bi-annual screenings are provided to all students.
If, for any reason, the parents or guardians prefer to have this screening done privately,
they must notify the Nurse’s Office.
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STUDENT ACTIVITIES
The Student Activity Program at Old Bridge High School is based upon these two
concepts:
1. Student activities are an important part of the secondary school
experience throughout the United States.
2. A good student activities program has a positive effect on the self-
esteem, aspirations, and values of high school students.
Through the volunteer efforts of many OBHS teachers, the student activity program
offers students the opportunity to experience a wide variety of school programs.
Within the school community, students are encouraged to experience “life beyond the
classroom.” Old Bridge High School strives for a student-centered activity program in
which students are encouraged to get involved and let their feelings and interests be
known. The activity program serves the entire school population. There are language
clubs, honor societies, social clubs, business clubs, etc. In addition to continuing many
traditional activities, the activity program at OBHS is always open to new, different and
exciting opportunities, especially for students who may not have participated in school
activities in the past.
OBHS students will become actively involved in community endeavors as a result of
participation in many clubs and societies. Voluntarism is encouraged as students take
part in assistance programs while furthering a particular skill or interest.
Basic guidelines to follow when joining a club or activity:
1. Read through this booklet and decide what may be of interest to you.
2. Listen to morning announcements about activity meetings.
3. Read the Student Activities Bulletin Board.
4. Read the Electronic Bulletin Board.
5. If you have any questions about any activities, stop by the Office of
Student Activities. If no one is there, leave a note on the door of the
Student Activity Coordinator’s office and you will be contacted after
class or during lunch.
Take time to get to know what is going on around you. For a college application, for a
job application or for your own enjoyment, get involved in school activities. It’ll make
you a better student; it can help you become a better person!
2016-2017 CLASS ADVISORS
Freshman Class Advisor – Renee Freel
Sophomore Class Advisors – Michelle Magliaro & LisaMarie Magarine
Junior Class Advisors – Janine Arciero & James Phillips
Senior Class Advisors – Andrew Amendola & Ashley Waldman
OBHS P.T.S.A.
It is important to note that the “S” in PTSA stands for “Student.” All students are
welcome to attend PTSA meetings, which take place on the second Monday of each
month. In order to have a vote in PTSA matters, a student must join the PTSA by
paying the $7.00 dues. By doing so, students will have an active voice in what the
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PTSA does at Old Bridge High School. The OBHS PTSA welcomes student
involvement in its affairs at all levels.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
1. African American Experience Club
Advisor: Antonio Bayuk – Math – Main Campus
This is a cultural club with emphasis on African-American contributors, culture, self-
esteem and other issues open to all students. Club activities include: trips, socials and
speakers. The only qualifications are good attendance at bi-weekly meetings, good
conduct and support of club activities. Dues are collected. There are approximately 40
members.
2. Anime Society
Advisor: Nicole Engebos – World Language – Main Campus/GNC
This club consists of students who appreciate and enjoy anime (Japanese animation)
and manga (Japanese for comics). Meetings include viewing anime and discussing
them. Members also participate in Anime drawing contests. Students have the
opportunity to give their opinions, views, and other comments. Students are
encouraged to explore and understand a higher level of classical and well-done
animation.
3. Art Club
Advisor: Laura Grozovskaya-Art-Main Campus
The Art Club is a working artist social service club, which contributes to the
community and assists the school in various ways. Some of the projects include:
School posters for special events, lobby decorations for the school musicals and more.
Students also have the opportunity to work on individual art projects. The club meets
the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month. No talent is necessary to be a member.
4. Art Honor Society
Advisor: TBA
The art club is a working artist’s social service club with 40 members, which
contributes to the community and assists the school in various ways. Some of the
projects include: The Town Fair, school posters for special events, lobby decorations
for the school musicals and more. The NAHS sponsors the Diabetes walk and
Student/Faculty Art Exhibit at Old Bridge Public Library. Members will also be able to
work on portfolios, learn new creative ideas and work on seasonal projects. The club
meets the second Thursday of every month. Interest in art is the only prerequisite. The
one-time membership fee for the honor society is $15.
5. Asian/Pacific Club
Advisor: Angela Kelly – History – Main Campus
Asian/Pacific Club: This club will collectively promote and raise awareness of the
Asian cultures, such as the Chinese, Koreans, the Philippines, plus. However, all
students are welcome. The club will celebrate, explore, nurture and create an
environment of support and shared understanding of these cultures. The club organizes
a number of cultural events and presents an International Cultural show in the spring.
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6. Asian Cultural Club
Advisors: Anahita Keiller- Director of Arts and Cultures and Harpreet Malhi-
World Language-Main Campus
Membership is open to all students, regardless of background or ethnicity. The purpose
of this club is to raise awareness and appreciation for the South Asian culture and
tradition within the school and community. The club promotes activities which focus
on celebrating the diversity of South Asian countries. An annual multimedia
performance showcasing the rich variety of these lands is presented to the community
every year. Member’s script, produce, direct, design and host the theatrical program
and encourage participation from non-members as well. Other fundraising activities
include cultural food and music celebrations, after-school movie nights, picnic-in-the-
park and several community-driven charity events.
7. Book Club
Advisor: Karen Walstein- Library- GNC
Students will meet every other week to discuss a book chosen by the club. The only
requirement is that students have a public library card.
8. Chamber Choir
Advisor: Steven Updegraff-Vocals-GNC
The chamber choir is a selective group of vocalists who are accepted based on vocal
auditions held in June for the upcoming school year. They perform at a winter and
spring concert as well as other events. Mandatory rehearsal is held once a week.
9. Chefs of Old Bridge
Advisor: TBD
The Chefs of Old Bridge is a cooking club which meets throughout the year to creates
delicious cuisine.
10. Dance Team
Advisor: Lauren Carroll – Special Education – Main Campus
The Dance Team begins in the fall and continues throughout the winter months. The
team performs a physical routine, which combines contemporary dance and music.
They will perform at school assemblies and events as well as participate in
competitions with other schools.
11. Debate Team
Advisor: Ashley Waldman – History – Main Campus/GNC
Debate Team is a formal contest of argumentation between two teams or individuals.
More than a mere verbal or performance skill, debate embodies the ideals of reasoned
argument, tolerance for divergent points of view and rigorous self-examination. Debate
is a way for those who hold opposing views to discuss controversial issues without
descending to insult, emotional appeals or personal bias.
12. Drill Team
Advisor: Rose Meade
The Drill Team combines a unique inspiration in urban dance, jazz and modern dance.
They perform at various events throughout the year. They traditionally perform at the
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pep rally. The only requirement for boys and girls is good physical conditioning, an
enthusiasm to learn step and a commitment to attend all practices and performances.
13. Engineering Club
Advisor: Christopher Kelly – Math – Main Campus
The purpose of the Engineering Club is to discover all aspects in the world of
engineering.
14. English Honor Society
Advisor: Sharon Gallagher/Jennifer McCann – English – Main Campus The English Honor Society rewards excellence in English and provides special
recognition for past and current accomplishments.
15. Fall Comedy & Spring Musical
Advisor: Jennifer O’Reilly – Drama – Main Campus
These theatrical productions are opened to all students on both campuses. Students
from all grades are encouraged to audition.
16. Fencing Club
Advisor: Connie Kim – Social Studies – Main Campus
The Fencing Club explores all aspects of the sport of fencing.
17. Fishing Club
Advisor: TBA – Science – Main Campus
The Fishing Club and its angling enthusiasts meet periodically throughout the year to
discover and appreciate the joys of fishing and nature.
18. French Club
Advisor: Harpreet Mahli – French – Main Campus Students enrolled in any level of French may join the French Club. Its purpose is to
expand upon the French culture learned in class. Dues are collected to fund club
activities which include: tasting French food, French dances and songs, French movies
and Holiday Celebrations. A student must attend meetings to be considered a member
and meetings are held once a month. There are approximately 120 members in the
French Club.
19. French Honor Society
Advisor: Harpreet Mahli – French – Main Campus The purpose of this Honor Society is to reward excellence in French and promote
continued study of the French language and culture. It is considered to be a service
organization where community service and good citizenship are demonstrated. No dues
are collected, but there are fundraising activities, which produce money for scholarship
awards. Activities include: teaching French in elementary schools, after school tutoring,
Volleyball Marathon, Car Wash, Bowlathon, Charity Walks, Candle sales, Holiday
Gifts for Needy Families, theater performances, end of year breakfast, and dinner at a
French restaurant. Qualifications include: a 3.5 average in French and overall B
average in all subjects. There are about 70 members in the French Honor Society, and
the club meets only when there are activities to be discussed.
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20. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Advisor: Jennifer Hunt – Business – OBHS Main
FBLA is a non-profit national education association for students preparing for careers
in business, entrepreneurial, or business-related fields. Dues of $15.00 are collected
annually and are sent to the National, State, and local FBLA organizations.
Organization activities include: induction ceremonies; community service and
fundraising pursuits; opportunities to assist the school and community; celebration of
American Enterprise Day; participation in regional, state, and national competitive
events; and an end of the year awards breakfast. Students are expected to accumulate
40 membership points annually in order to be considered “active” members. Students
must select 2 committees to join: School Service, Fundraising, Social, FBLA Week,
Partnership with Business, Community Service, and Public Relations.
21. Future Educators of America
Advisor: Lynn Birsin – Child Development – Main Campus
Amy Chernet – Culinary – Main Campus
If you are interested in a career in teaching, this club will help prepare you. Members
will participate in a variety of activities with children. This is a national organization,
and dues will be collected to offset club expenses
22. German Club
Advisor: Anna Cotis – German – Main Campus
The German club promotes an awareness of German culture. Dues are collected for
expenses such as food for meetings. Activities center on culturally appropriate topics
like Octoberfest and Karneval. The club is opened to all students and not just students
who study the German language. There are approximately 75 members.
23. German Honor Society
Advisor: Anna Cotis – German – Main Campus
The German Honor Society is for students who excel in the study of the German
language. A 3.5 average in German is necessary, along with a B average in all other
subjects. Dues are collected and meetings coincide with the German Club meetings.
24. Guitar Club
Advisor: Rich Sorrentino- Italian- Main Campus Students discuss global warming issues. Activities include an Earth Day festival and
recycling on a regular basis. Anyone who wishes to join may do so.
25. History Honor Society
Advisor: Connie Kim – History – Main Campus
The History Honor Society rewards excellence in the study of History, promotes the
continued study of History, and provides special recognition for past and current
accomplishments.
26. Improv Club
Advisor: Katie Crain – Special Education – Main Campus
Do you love acting? Do you love writing plays? Do you love reenacting plays? Then
join the Improv Club. You can write, reenact or rewrite a favorite play, TV show or
even part of a movie.
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27. Indoor Percussion
Advisor: Melissa Thatcher - Performing Arts-Main Campus
Indoor Percussion is a club that includes drums, keyboards, and other percussion
instruments. Members perform a theatrical show in a gym through movement and
music and compete on a regular basis. Auditions and rehearsals begin in November
and the competitive season ends in May. Rehearsals are held every Monday and
Wednesday from 5-9p.m., Saturdays and some Fridays. Competitions are usually on
Saturdays and Sundays. Indoor Percussion is a very demanding club and requires
dedication and training.
28. Interact
Advisor: Annalisa Rivessi- Italian- Main Campus
The Interact Club is sponsored by the Old Bridge/ Sayreville Rotary Club. Its purpose
is to provide community and international service opportunities for OBHS students.
Dues are collected to assist in paying for state association dues and various community
projects. Applications for membership are available through the Office of Student
Activities. Events held by Interact are the fall food drive, Pumpkin decoration, Winter
Grams, and Beach Sweep. All proceeds are donated to good causes. The fee for the
club is $6, and members meet once a month.
29. Investment Club
Advisor: Justin Weiner – History – Main Campus
The Investment club educated business and finance-minded students about the stock
market, money management skills and a general understanding of finance and business.
30. Islamic Club
Advisor: TBA
Islamic Club informs students about Islam, studies the Holy book (Quran), and creates
friendly relationships between Muslims and non-Muslim students. There are more than
100 members who participate in international foods and traditions and meet every
Friday for performing Jumma prayers as well as short speeches and discussions. The
club fee is $10.
31. International Thespian Society
Advisor: Jennifer O’Reilly – Drama – Main Campus The OBHS Chapter of the International Thespian Society recognizes students who have
been dedicated to excellence in theater arts. Students are inducted into the society in
their sophomore, junior or senior year based on points earned for their technical and/or
performance work in school productions and in drama classes.
32. Italian Club
Advisors: Grace Santorelli (GNC) and Annalisa Rivezzi (Main Campus)-Italian
The purpose of the Italian Club is to promote Italian culture and language. Annual $5
dues are collected and used for scholarships, purchase of films, and artistic items that
promote the Italian culture. 190 members meet once a month to participate in annual
events like the Columbus Day celebration, soccer game, and a bocce tournament.
33. Italian Honor Society
Advisors: Richard Sorrentino – Main Campus/GNC
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The Italian Honor Society recognizes the achievement of students who study the Italian
language and who distinguish themselves academically. This Honor Society has an
annual induction ceremony. The society also runs a tutoring service every Tuesday. A
student must have attained an average of 90 or above in Italian and an 80 or above in
all other subjects. The student must also be enrolled beyond the first year of Italian.
There are currently 70 members, and no fee is required.
34. Key Club
Advisors: Lorraine Martin – Main Campus
Key Club is a student-led organization which provides opportunities to provide service
and build character. Members of Key Club perform acts of service in their district's
schools and in their communities, such as cleaning up parks, collecting clothing and
organizing food drives. Members implement initiatives, such as awareness campaigns
and fundraising projects within the high school, with the purpose of assisting specific
philanthropic organizations, including UNICEF, March for Babies, and Children's
Miracle Network. Members develop leadership skills by running meetings, planning
projects, and participating in club, district, and international activities. Key Club is the
oldest and largest international service program for high school students.
35. Knight Life (School Newspaper)
Advisor: Lori Luicci- English- Main Campus
The school newspaper, Knight Life, is published five times each year by the Journalism
class. Articles and graphics, created by and for the students, are assembled on pc’s
using the PageMaker desktop publishing program. Everything, including story
development, research, interviewing, writing, editing, photography, drawing, layout,
design, and distribution is done by class members and other interested contributors.
36. Knights of the Silver Bleachers
Advisor: Scott Beverly – Design Technology – Main Campus
Got OBHS spirit? Join the Knights of the Silver Bleachers and celebrate your OBHS
spirit. K.O.S.B. brings motivation and enthusiasm to our sports teams by rallying
together to show our loyalty and support. Come and cheer on OBHS’s student athletes!
37. Literary Magazine
Advisor: Jamie Brown – OBHS Main
All students are encouraged to submit for The Knights’ Tales: Old Bridge High
School’s Literary and Arts Magazine. Anyone interested in working on the publication
of the magazine should attend monthly meetings.
38. Marching Band
Advisor: Melissa Thatcher - Band Director- Main Campus
There is no fee to join the marching band, but there are trips taken every year, such as
band camp and Nationals at the Naval Academy stadium in Annapolis, MD. The
members are responsible for the fees of these trips. Also the marching band members
are responsible for purchasing some parts of their uniform such as shoes, gloves, and
socks. Marching band has approximately 80 members including the musicians, color
guard, and percussionists. During the season, practice is twice a week for 4 hours and
on the weekends. Members also attend and perform at football games and pep rallies
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as well as compete in competitions in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. The
marching band offers positions in playing an instrument or spinning flags and dancing.
39. Math Honor Society - Mu Alpha Theta
Advisors: Nancy Atwater and Rosemary Mauro-Math Main Campus
Students who have successfully completed Algebra 1 and Geometry and are currently
enrolled in Algebra 2 may apply for membership in Mu Alpha Theta, the national math
honor society. Students must have an A-average in their math classes, and there is a
one-time $25 lifetime membership fee for those individuals selected to join. Members
participate in several activities throughout the year, including math competitions and
tutoring.
40. Model Congress & UN
Advisor: Ashley Waldman – Main Campus/GNC
This club attends a Model United Nations in the fall and a Model Congress in the
spring. Both four-day conferences (at a cost to the students) are held at Rutgers
University. The approximately thirty members of the club spend a significant amount
of time researching, writing and debating current issues. If you have any interest in
government or learning more about government in a highly unusual manner, join the
Model Congress and the Model UN.
41. National Honor Society (NHS)
Advisor: - Angela Kelly – History – Main Campus
Students who are invited to join the NHS are students who demonstrate academic
excellence and community service. NHS sponsors charitable fundraisers for places
such as Children’s Hospital, Make a Wish Foundation, and HSPA Helpers. NHS
currently has approximately 150 members. Application for membership is required,
and the dues for the club are 15 dollars. Executive Board meetings are held once per
week, and the entire membership meets once a month.
42. Physics Club
Advisor: Joel Goodman – Science – Main Campus
The Physics Club explores all aspects of physics, promotes the continued study of
Physics and Physics-related subjects.
43. Ping Pong Club
Advisor: Ryan Geist – Math – Main Campus
Join your classmates and enjoy a game of friendly ping pong.
44. Presidents Council
Advisor: Rose Meade - Student Activities Coordinator- Main Campus
The President’s Council usually meets once a month during various periods in the main
library to discuss the events that are going on at OBHS. The club contains one or two
representatives from each club/activity at OBHS. The council has helped with many
student activities such as Holiday baskets, food drive, Old Bridge Board of Education
elections, plays, Homecoming, Battle of the Classes and Lock In. The representatives
at each meeting relate the activities that are being done by their club during that time
period. There are approximately 40-50 members in the Presidents Council. There is no
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fee to be in the President’s Council. Council usually meets once a month during various
periods in the main library.
45. Pre-Med Club
Advisor: TBA
The Pre-Med club allows OBHS students interested in health and medical fields to
pursue their interest by the means of the club activities. The club hosts activities that
delve into various realms of the medical world. Events include informative sessions,
fundraisers, and community service projects. There is a $7 fee.
46. Project Unify/ Buddy Team
Advisor: Karen Lewicki – Special Education – Main Campus
Buddy Team/Project Unify is an education and sports based strategy powered by our
students to increase athletic and leadership opportunities for students with and without
intellectual disabilities, while creating communities of acceptance for all. Inclusive
sports provide youth with and without intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train
and play together as teammates. Students form friendships, foster respect for each
other, and become leaders in and out of the school community.
47. Red Cross
Advisor: Janine Arciero and Karen Walstein – English – Main Campus
The Red Cross provides a wide range of activities to meet its own humanitarian
mission. Students who become involved may learn new skills, gain life experience,
meet new friends, learn to network, increase volunteering activities, learn how to
become stronger leaders, and contribute to the community.
48. Robotics Club
Advisor: Vito Cangelosi – Computers – Main Campus
The Robotics Club is designed for those students interested in building and competing
in Robotic Competitions. Team work is a must. Students are encouraged to be creative
while using technology, engineering, and literacy skills.
49. Rock Climbing Club
Advisor: Nicole Engebos – World Language – Main Campus/GNC
Explore the joy and challenges of rock climbing
50. Russian Slavic Club
Advisor: Tatiana Likhatchev – Math - Main Campus
The Russian Slavic Club allows students to learn about Russian Culture and language.
The club is open to all students. The club celebrates many holidays from Russian and
Slavic cultures; they hold bake sales offering many Russian and Slavic foods to
fundraise for the senior award, and they sponsor an International Day. There are
currently 18 members. There is no fee to join.
51. Rutgers Health Science Career
Advisor: Sharon Nolan – Health Careers – Main Campus
The Rutgers Health Science Career club allows students to experience and learn about
various careers in Health and Science.
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52. SADD – Students Against Destructive Decisions
Advisor: Lori Obdyke – Math – Main Campus
The mission of the SADD was initially to help people avoid the dangers of drinking
and driving. Today, their mission has expanded to deal with underage drinking, other
drug use, risky and impaired driving, and other destructive decisions. SADD’s
approach involves young people presenting education and prevention messages to their
peers through school and community activities.
53. School Store
Advisor: Patricia Morrison- Clothing and Design- Main Campus
The purpose of the OBHS school store is to have a central location for students to
purchase school-related merchandise. The school store on each campus is opened
during lunch periods with students assigned on a rotating basis. Students oversee the
daily routines of a store’s operation including selling the products available. Members
create a new t-shirt design each year to produce and sell, and they are currently
working on raising money for a merchandising scholarship. There is no fee to join. The
club meets weekly, and all students work at least one day a week in the store.
54. Science National Honors Society
Advisor: Judith Emslie – Science- GNC
The Old Bridge Chapter of the Science National Honor society was started in 2008.
This organization is comprised of high achieving students who possess a love of
science. Chapter activities include philanthropic endeavors, communication with the
scientific community, aiding the community with its comprehension of science, and
encouraging dedication to all sciences.
55. Sewing Club
Advisor: Christine Gonch - Sewing – GNC
Old Bridge High School’s sewing club is great for people who are interested in sewing
and designing clothes and other items. Members have previously made tote bags to sell
to aid the victims of the Haiti hurricane, neck coolers to send to our troops in Iraq, and
baby blankets which were donated to Children’s Specialized Hospital. There is no entry
fee, and students meet weekly after school.
56. Ski/Snowboard Club
Advisor: Karen Lewicki – Main Campus
There will be a mandatory meeting for all parents/guardians of students planning on
joining the club. The club is open to anyone who has an interest in skiing and/or
snowboarding, or who has always wanted to learn. Trips are scheduled after school
and buses return back to the high school at approximately 11:30 pm. There are a
limited number of spots, and priority will be given to those students who sign up for all
trips. Trips are always subject to change at the last minute depending on weather
conditions. Any student receiving disciplinary action (i.e., OSS, AIP or multiple
referrals) will not be permitted to attend trips and may not be eligible for a refund. All
meetings will be held at the high school and will be announced in the Daily Bulletin.
There are currently 175 members in the club, and meet 6 Fridays in the winter months.
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57. Spanish Honor Society
Advisor: Ligia Morales - Spanish-Main Campus
The Spanish Honor Society is a national organization with chapters in high schools
throughout the country. All 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students are eligible. The
requirements are: Spanish II, 3.8 average in the last marking periods; Spanish III, 3.5
average, Spanish IV, 3.2 average, Spanish V, 3.0 average. Applications are handed out
after midterm exams. The honor society sponsors free tutoring 3 times a week and a
food drive for the Old Bridge Food Bank. There are currently about 180 members. No
dues are collected, but a fundraiser is held to uphold costs. Meetings are held monthly.
58. Spike Ball
Advisor: Dawn Koczon – Business – GNC
The Spike Ball club is dedicated to learning the team sport of Spike Ball. Come join
your classmates and explore this team sport.
59. Stage Crew
Advisor: Michael Bennett – English – Main Campus
The stage crew builds, paints, decorates and moves scenery for the school play and
musical production. The first meeting will be announced before the fall comedy.
60. Student Humane Society
Advisor: Lorrain Martin – Special Education - Main Campus
The club is dedicated to helping animal shelters. Activities are planned for the purpose
of collecting donations for the shelters. Some of the past activities include bake sales,
lollipop sales, and therapy dog demonstrations, speakers from the Popcorn Zoo, and a
trip to the Popcorn Zoo, “Cutest Pet Contest”, and trips to the Old Bridge Animal
Shelter. The club has an annual collection of items during the winter holiday season.
Students have also volunteered at the shelter in the past. There is no fee to join SHS.
Meetings take place once a month and membership is open to the entire student body,
61. Student Senate
Advisors: Rose Meade- Main Campus
Jamie Brown- English - Main Campus
The OBHS Student Senate is made up of 15 students from each grade level. From this
group, the Student Senate Officers are elected. General meetings are held during the 4th
week of every month at 6:00 pm and are open to the entire student body; however, only
student senate members can vote on issues. Officers’ meetings and committee meetings
are held during the 2nd week of every month at 6:00 pm. Any OBHS student who wants
to voice an opinion, ask a question, or simply be heard should plan on attending
Student Council meetings. Student Senate currently has 65 members and yearly dues of
$10.00. The club as a whole meets once a month. Individual committees meet more
frequently if there is an event going on.
62. Tchoukball Club
Advisor: Rich Torok – Physical Education – Main Campus
The Tchoukball club is dedicated to learning the team sport of Tchoukball. Come join
your classmates and explore this team sport.
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63. Tri-M Music Honor Society
Advisors: Steven Updegraff- Choir Director- GNC
Melissa Thatcher - Band Director- Main Campus
Tri-M is a society that recognizes the interests and talents of students involved in the
field of vocal and instrumental music. Students are inducted into the society in their
junior or senior year based on points earned from their musical performances and class
work. Students must pay a $25 dues and have enough points for induction. The club
currently has 50 members.
64. Urban Cultural Club
Advisor: TBA
Members participate in the Pep rally, the first home game for Boys’ Basketball, Asian
Pacific club show, and the Essence show. Currently there are 35 members who meet
every Monday and Thursday after school. There is no fee for the club.
65. Yearbook
Advisors: Sean Garrett and Jennifer Bonk – OBHS Main Campus
Yearbook is an extension of the publications class, yet open to any student interested in
working on the yearbook. There is no fee to join the Yearbook staff. Our "big event" is
producing a 376-page yearbook and 16 page supplement that covers the entire school
year. See Mr. Garrett if you are interested in joining the staff.
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OLD BRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT
GENERAL STUDENT CONDUCT (See Appendix A)
Philosophy/Disciplinary Actions
We at Old Bridge High School attempt to offer the best available educational
opportunities to all individuals. As one of our primary concerns is educating our
students to live in a multi-cultural society, we believe that individual and group
responsibilities of good citizenship should be paramount among the entire student
body. The staff and administration of Old Bridge H.S. believes that the most effective
discipline is self-discipline. Any conduct that is construed as causing a reasonable
possibility for disruption of the educational process or that interferes with the health,
safety, or rights of others is prohibited.
CHAPTER 156, LAWS OF 1969 (Assembly Bill No. 877 Approved September 5,
1969) An ACT concerning education and amending 18A:37-2 of the New Jersey
Statutes. BE IT ENACTED by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New
Jersey.
1. Section 18A:37-2 of the New Jersey Statutes is amended to read as follows:
18A:37-2. Any pupil who is guilty of continued and willful disobedience, or of
open defiance of authority of any teacher or person having authority over him, or
the habitual use of profanity or of obscene language, or who shall cut, deface or
otherwise injure any 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 a pupil guilty
of such conduct shall include, but not be limited to:
A. Continued or 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 pupils.
D. Physical assault upon another pupil or upon any teacher or other school
employee.
E. Taking, or attempting to take, personal property or money from another pupil
or from his/her presence, by means of force or fear.
F. Willfully causing, or attempting to cause substantial damage to school
property.
G. Participation in an unauthorized occupancy by any group of pupils or others
of any part of any school or other building owned by any school district
and failure to leave such school or other facility promptly after having been
directed to do so by the principal or other person then in charge of such
building or facility.
H. Incitement which is intended to and does result in unauthorized occupation
by any group of pupils or others of any part of a school or other facility
owned by any school district.
I. Incitement which is intended to and does result in truancy by other pupils.
J. Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages or controlled dangerous
substances on school premises or being under the influence of intoxicating
liquor or controlled dangerous substances while on school premises.
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ABUSIVE LANGUAGE/PROFANITY
Any student who uses profanity, abusive, and/or inappropriate language will be subject
to disciplinary action ranging from office detention to out of school suspension.
ABUSIVE LANGUAGE/PROFANITY TO A STAFF MEMBER
Any student who uses profanity and/or abusive language to a staff member will be
immediately suspended out-of-school for 2-4 days. Parents will be required to attend an
administrative conference and the student shall be required to issue an apology to the
staff member. Counseling shall be provided as necessary. Any student that directs
abusive language towards an administrator will receive a minimum 4-day OSS.
ASSAULT/VIOLENCE IN SCHOOL/STUDENT FIGHTS
All students have the responsibility of maintaining acceptable standards of behavior
while in school and while participating in school related activities. Fighting is a serious
offense. In almost every instance, a student has the opportunity to walk away from a
potential fight and report the problem to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. If the
student chooses to participate in the verbal or physical harassment, which often results
in a fight, he/she must be prepared to accept the consequences.
Many fights result from half-truths carried back and forth by a “friend” of both parties.
Such a person is not a friend, and he/she may be subject to disciplinary action for
aiding and abetting a fight. Students are also cautioned against teasing each other and
“play-fighting.” This type of immature behavior often leads to someone becoming
angry and results in a fight.
Students who witness an altercation (physical or verbal) are obligated to immediately
notify a staff member, teacher, or administrator. Students who fail to report an
altercation that he/she witnessed will be subject to disciplinary action.
All fights involving students are defined as assaults and as such may be reported to the
police for appropriate prosecution.
NJ Law 2C:12-1 - Assault
There are two kinds of assault: simple assault and aggravated assault.
1. Simple assault may be committed in any of the following ways:
a. Causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to another, purposely,
knowingly, or recklessly;
b. negligently causing bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon;
c. attempting by physical menace (as opposed to using a weapon) to put another
in fear of imminent or serious bodily injury.
2. Aggravated Assault, which is primarily distinguished from simple assault by the
severity of the bodily injury, may be committed in any of the following ways:
a. Attempting to cause or causing serious bodily injury to another purposely,
knowingly, or recklessly under circumstances manifesting extreme
indifference to the value of human life: or
b. attempting to cause, or purposely or knowingly causing bodily injury with a
deadly weapon.
[Note Simple Assault (B)]; or
c. recklessly causing bodily injury with a deadly weapon [Note Simple Assault
(B)]; or
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d. knowingly pointing a firearm in the direction of another, whether or not the
actor believes it to be loaded, under circumstances manifesting extreme
indifference to the value of human life; or
e. committing what has been defined as a simple assault upon
1. any law enforcement officer, or
2. any paid or volunteer fireman, or
3. any person engaged in emergency first aid or medical services while
such person is in uniform or is otherwise identifiable as being on duty.
4. any school board member or school administrator, teacher or other
employee of a school board while clearly identifiable as being engaged
in the performance of his/her duties or because of his/her status as a
member or employee of a school board [2C:12-1- b(5)(d)].
Generally, a simple assault is a disorderly person’s offense. In the event that the
offense is committed during a fight or scuffle entered into by mutual consent, the
offense is downgraded to a petty disorderly person’s offense. Aggravated assault
ranges in severity from a second to fourth degree crime. All students involved in an
assault will be suspended and reported to the state through the violence and vandalism
report unless innocence can be established at the time of the assault. Both students
cannot be innocent. Innocent is defined as being a non-participant victim or an
unwilling participant. Any suspended student will be excluded from ALL school
functions and activities throughout the period of suspension. A student may not be
readmitted to school until a parent conference takes place during school hours in the
school building.
Fighting - 1st offense of fighting – 4 days out-of-school suspension, parent conference
with administration, and possible high school disciplinary hearing. Student will be
required to meet with his/her guidance counselor upon return to school and meet two
times with the Student Assistance Counselor to address anger management counseling.
(Important caveat: If a fight appears to have been premeditated/arranged or related to
any gang-like activity, a first fight will likely result in a 9 day suspension and
mandatory disciplinary hearing.
Assault - 1st offense of assault – 9 days out-of-school suspension, parent conference
with administration, High School Student Disciplinary Hearing, and police report.
Student will be required to meet with his/her guidance counselor upon his/her return to
school and meet two times with the Student Assistance Counselor to address anger
management counseling.
2nd and any subsequent offense of fighting or assault – Up to 10 days out-of-school
suspension (9 days in most circumstances). Student and parent(s) will be required to
appear before the high school disciplinary committee. Students will be required to
meet with his/her guidance counselor. The student will also meet again with the
Student Assistance Counselor (S.A.C.) The S.A.C. may suggest outside counseling if
deemed appropriate.
Pushing Matches – A 3 day out-of-school suspension, parent conference with
administration, and possible High School Student Disciplinary Hearing (especially if
this is a repeat offense). Student will be required to meet with his/her guidance
counselor upon return to school and meet two times with the Student Assistance
Counselor to address anger management counseling.
Any student, who is involved in a physical altercation who does not follow a staff
member’s directive to cease, or who does not report to the main office immediately
after the altercation, will be subject to additional disciplinary consequences.
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The disciplinary committee may recommend and/or impose, but is not limited to,
counseling, lengthening of the suspension time, additional discipline/detention, and/or
removal from school and placement in an alternate setting, approved by the
Superintendent of Schools, for up to 45 days.
The High School Administration reserves the right to recommend an expulsion hearing
for any student involved in a serious fight/assault.
Parents and students should be advised that all acts of violence and vandalism will be
reported to the County Superintendent and State forms will be filled out as required by
law.
ASSAULT ON BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBERS AND EMPLOYEES OF
THE SCHOOL DISTRICT All assaults on Board of Education members and employees of the school district must
be reported to:
a. Superintendent of Schools
b. Board of Education
c. Local Police Department
As a result of the assault the student shall be suspended immediately, pending
expulsion proceedings before the Board of Education/Superintendent of Schools. The
district/principal shall file a criminal assault/disorderly conduct complaint with the
local police department. The school will cooperate with the police investigation so that
the student is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This policy does not impede
assaulted individuals from filing criminal/civil complaints privately. Students who, in
the course of a physical or verbal altercation with another student, make contact with\a
staff member or cause harm to a staff member as a result of his/her actions will be
subject to an out-of-school-suspension, police notification, and possible hearing with
the Board of Education/Superintendent of Schools.
BULLYING/BIAS INCIDENTS/CYBERBULLYING
The New Jersey State Legislature (NJSA 18A:37-19) finds and declares that a safe and
civil environment in schools is necessary for students to learn and achieve high
academic standards. Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or
violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and a
school’s ability to educate in a safe environment. Harassment, intimidation, bullying,
or bias incidents are any gestures or written, verbal or physical acts that are reasonably
perceived as being motivated either by an actual or perceived characteristic such as, but
not limited to, race, color, creed, handicap, etc. that takes place on school property, at
any school sponsored function, on a school bus, or in cyber-space (i.e., internet, emails,
text messaging, etc.). "Cyber bullying" is when a student is tormented, threatened,
harassed, humiliated, embarrassed or otherwise targeted by another individual using the
Internet, interactive and digital technologies or mobile phones. Bullying and bias
incidents, in any form, will not be tolerated and will be disciplined accordingly.
Discipline will range from detention to out of school suspension. The severity of the
incident and repetition of similar situations are factors that will be used to determine
the consequences. Local law enforcement may be contacted depending on the severity
of the incident. (See appendix C)
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BUS MISCONDUCT
Students are expected to behave appropriately while traveling to and from school.
Inappropriate conduct will result in disciplinary consequences including revocation of
the student’s bus privilege.
CELL PHONES
Cell phones have become a common accessory in today’s society, providing parents
with a sense of security and students with a convenient means of communication.
From an educational perspective, the potential abuses and disruptions connected to the
convenience of instant communication can outweigh the advantages in the school
setting. Students are permitted to use cell phones, before school, after school, during
lunch and only with permission of the teacher, during class. Cell phones that are
confiscated may be returned via parent pick-up at the conclusion of the school day it
was confiscated at the earliest. Use of these devices for video/digital images is strictly
prohibited! If in the judgment of the administration the student body does not act
responsibly and comply with the aforementioned guidelines, the administration
reserves the right to terminate the right to use electronic devices altogether. While we
recognize that cell phones have become a part of everyday life for many people, they
are restricted in school. Cell phones may be confiscated by staff and students who
bring them to school do so at their own risk. To that end, the school will not accept
responsibility for loss, theft, or vandalism of these items. Repeated violations may
result in disciplinary action including OSS. In addition to disciplinary consequences issued by the high school administration, the
State of New Jersey can impose penalties to students who breach security measures by
utilizing cell phones during state tests and/or exams. Parents who need to contact their
child during an emergency situation must contact the main office as opposed to calling
their child’s cell phone. Students who choose to use their cell phone for any reason
during restricted times are subject to discipline. Students who refuse to surrender a cell
phone upon request will be suspended out of school for insubordination. The high
school administration reserves the right to institute additional disciplinary action for
any infraction depending on circumstances.
CELL PHONE/ELECTRONIC DEVICE USE
Students are prohibited from taking photographs or video with any electronic
equipment, including cell phones, on school grounds or at any school sponsored event
without prior administrative approval. Students who fail to comply will be subject to
discipline, including out of school suspension. Furthermore, students are prohibited
from posting on the internet pictures of school staff, property, or facilities without prior
administrative approval.
CHEATING
Cheating in the academic setting will be defined as receiving or giving information to
or from another student or using an unauthorized source during an academic
assignment (i.e. quiz, test or homework). Students who are caught cheating will receive
a zero for that particular quiz, test or assignment. Plagiarism is a form of cheating. If a
student is using a cell phone during the administration of any assessment (quiz, test,
midterm, final, etc.) without teacher permission, the student will receive a zero for that
assessment. Parental notification by the teacher will occur. Student may be subject to
disciplinary action.
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CUTTING
Each class cut is an unexcused absence. Students may also receive academic penalties
that may include a grade of zero for missed work/assessments. Additional
consequences for cutting a class will include:
1st, 2nd and 3rd cut – Student will receive an after school detention for each offense.
4th, 5th and 6th cut – Student will receive a Saturday detention for each offense.
7th, 8th and 9th cut - Student will receive AIP for each offense.
10th cut and beyond – Student will be referred to administration and will receive
additional consequence which may include but not limited to escalating out-of-school
suspensions. The guidance counselor will attend the post-suspension administrative
conference with the parent and the student. The teacher will contact the parent each
time a student cuts a class.
DRESS CODE
It is expected that students will avoid wearing any clothing or related items disruptive
to the educational process. Students are required to adhere to the following dress code:
Hats or any head covering (with the exception of religious) are not permitted to be
worn or visible in the school during the school day.
Wearing or displaying any item encouraging the use of alcoholic beverages,
controlled dangerous substances, weapons, tobacco, or sexual references is
strictly prohibited. Items of clothing that can be interpreted by staff as having
either explicit or implied double meanings are prohibited.
No strapless, spaghetti strap, one shoulder, see-through, bustier, or halter tops are
permitted. No tops which expose the abdominal area are permitted. No cleavage
or bare chests may be exposed. Proper attire should include undergarments.
Undergarments may not be exposed at any time. Tank top undershirts are not
permitted. Pajamas are not acceptable school clothing.
Articles that can cause damage to other students and/or property are not permitted.
No slippers or bare feet are allowed in the school at any time.
Sunglasses may not be worn in the building.
No outerwear such as coats, jackets, raincoats, or gloves are permitted to be worn
in the building during school hours. As fashion trends change as frequently as the
weather, the administration reserves the right to define “outerwear” as the school
year progresses.
Skirts and shorts should cover the abdominal area in the sitting or standing
position, and extend to the individual’s mid thigh region when standing naturally.
The administration reserves the right to impose any additional codes to address the
ever changing trends in fashion to ensure the optimal learning environment.
Students violating the dress code may receive disciplinary consequences.
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL: POLICIES/PROCEDURES
Students Suspected of Being Under the Influence of CDS Including Alcohol and
Steroids: The Old Bridge School District recognizes that the misuse of chemical
substances by any student seriously impedes their education and threatens the welfare
of the entire school community. The Board of Education is committed to the
prevention and rehabilitation of chemical substance abusers. According to N.J.S.A.
18A: 40-12, N.J.A.C. 6A: 16-4.3 (Appendix B) , and board policy # 5530, when a
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student is suspected of being under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance
(CDS) including alcohol, he/she must submit to a urine/blood test and be examined by
a physician immediately. For purposes of compliance, “immediately” shall be
interpreted by the administration to mean within a four (4) hour time period. If a
parent/guardian cannot be reached, the principal or his/her designee will take the
student to a physician’s office or to a hospital emergency room for testing and
examination. Should a parent opt to use their own physician/facility rather than using
the Board approved physician/facility they do so at their own expense. Furthermore,
any and all examinations including laboratory tests must be run and/or administered
using the same standards, protocols, chain of custody, and integrity checks that are used
and required by the Board’s physician/facility. Failure to comply with any and all of
these standards will render the results unacceptable and will constitute a violation of the
district’s drug and alcohol policy. Please take note: consumption of fluids, including
water, prior to the administration of urine analysis could have an impact on the results.
The consumption of fluids, however, will not be an acceptable affirmative defense
against any negative integrity results. A written report of that examination must be
supplied by the examining physician, to the superintendent of schools or his/her
administrative principal/designee within 24 hours of the examination. The student may
return to school after being medically cleared by a physician and presenting to an
administrator the district’s Observation and Substance Screening Report pending the
results of the test. The following are circumstances that will be considered violations of the District’s
drug and alcohol policy.
1. Possession of a controlled dangerous substance.
2. Positive urine/blood screen result.
3. The integrity checks (creatinine level, specific gravity, nitrates, temperature,
and PH level) of urine screen test are not within normal range.
4. The specimen has been tampered with or adulterants have been added.
5. A refusal to supply a specimen during the medical exam.
6. The medical exam was not completed within the four (4) hour time frame.
7. The student admits to being under the influence.
8. Possessing or distributing imitation drugs or substances that are packaged or
portrayed to resemble controlled dangerous substances.
9. Refusal to submit to a medical/urine screening.
All screenings must include integrity checks for temperature, pH level, creatinine level,
specific gravity, and oxidizing/chemical adulterants. An integrity check must be
completed twice on the same specimen. The form (See Appendix E) contains
additional information including procedures and ranges for integrity checks. As
specified in #3 above, integrity checks that are not found within normal range will be
considered in violation of the district’s drug and alcohol policy. The results of the
report are final and there will be no opportunity for the student to retake the test.
Students (or Parents) who refuse to sign either the urine monitoring contract or the
SASSI (Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory) will not be permitted to return to
school until such time as both contracts are fully executed. If a parent refuses to obtain
medical clearance or doesn’t provide for the immediate medical examination as
required by law, this will be considered medical neglect and a report to DYFS will be
made.
1st Offense: The student will receive out-of-school suspension for a minimum of four
days. Upon the student’s return to school there will be a re-admittance conference that
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must be attended by the substance abuse counselor, the parent(s)/guardians(s), the
student and an administrator. The student and parent or guardian must sign a urine
monitoring contract, which will be effective for one full year, beginning with the
signing date. The student and parent/guardian are also required to sign a SASSI
permission slip.
2nd Offense: The student will be suspended for a minimum of 7 days and must again be
medically cleared and urine screened by a physician prior to returning to school. A
second re-admittance conference will be scheduled and attended by the student, the
parent/guardian, SAC, and the building principal. This meeting may be upgraded to a
district disciplinary committee hearing.
3rd Offense: The student will be suspended for 9 days and must again be medically
cleared and urine screened by a physician prior to returning to school. A high school
disciplinary hearing will now be schedule. The committee may refer the matter to the
Board of Education or its designee for a hearing.
Note: If after the SAC evaluation, which will include the SASSI results and any urine
screen results, it is determined that the student needs an outside evaluation which is to
be conducted by an appropriately licensed and/or certified professional and the
parents/guardians do not follow through on the evaluation or recommendations from
the evaluation this will be considered medical neglect and DYFS will be notified.
A. Student in Possession of Alcohol, Paraphernalia or CDS:
If, upon information provided by the police or school authorities, the administration has
reason to believe that a student is guilty of the use, possession or transportation of a
controlled dangerous substance on or off the school premises, then, provided the
student has not previously been disciplined for an offense relating to dangerous
substances, an informal hearing shall be held as soon as possible. At this time the
student shall be informed of the charges against him/her and be given an opportunity to
present his/her version of the facts. If the administration has reasonable cause to
believe that the charges are true, the student will be put on out-of-school suspension for
a period of nine (9) days. A parent conference will be held with the parents, student,
SAC, and an administrator. The student will be referred to the Discipline Committee.
B. Sale or Distribution:
If, upon information provided by the police or school authorities, the administration has
reason to believe that a student is guilty of the sale, distribution, or possession with the
intent to sell or distribute a controlled dangerous substance on or off school premises,
immediate disciplinary action will be taken. He/she will be immediately put on out-of-
school suspension pending a full Board hearing, and the police will be notified. Any
student who sells a controlled dangerous substance will be subject to expulsion by the
Board of Education.
DUE PROCESS FULL HEARING: The student and his/her parents shall be given
due notice of the time and place of the full hearing. In addition to the Board of
Education, at least two administrators will be present. The police may be invited. The
student and his/her parents will be informed of the charge or charges against the student
in all relevant detail. The student may produce oral testimony or written affidavits of
witnesses in his/her own behalf, and may be represented by counsel. Following the
hearing, the Board of Education shall determine the course of action to be taken.
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FAILURE TO SERVE ADMINISTRATIVELY ASSIGNED DISCIPLINE
Students who fail or refuse to serve afterschool detention will be given one Saturday
Detention for each offense. Students who fail or refuse to serve AIP or Saturday
detention will be suspended out-of-school for a minimum of 1 day. Each subsequent
infraction will result in additional days of OSS.
FALSE ALLEGATIONS/STATEMENTS Students who make false allegations against another person will be subject to
disciplinary action including out of school suspension. Students who provide false
statements to an administrator and/or impede an investigation will also be subject to
disciplinary action including out of school suspension.
FOOD/BEVERAGES
Unless specifically provided by the teacher as part of the classroom routine, the
possession and/or consumption of food/beverages outside the cafeteria, is prohibited.
Students found in possession of food/beverage must discard said items or face
disciplinary consequences.
FOOD (THROWING/FIGHT)
Depending on the nature of the incident and the severity of the situation, the throwing
of food or beverages or the participation/encouragement of a food fight will result in a
Saturday detention to escalating out of school suspensions.
FORGERY
Any student, who commits an act of forgery, including altering or submitting a school,
medical, or legal document, will be suspended out of school 2 days for the 1st offense, 4
days for the 2nd offense and escalating out of school suspension for every offense
thereafter. Police notification may also occur.
GAMBLING
The Old Bridge School District recognizes that gambling is an addiction. Gambling is
also illegal. Anyone in possession of or playing with dice, playing cards, etc. will face
the following disciplinary action. Students in possession of/using gambling
paraphernalia (cards, dice, chips, etc.) will be given an afterschool detention for the 1st
offense and referred to their guidance counselor. A 2nd offense will result in an AIP
and parent-student conference with the SAC. Subsequent offenses will result in
escalating out-of-school suspensions beginning with a minimum of two days. Students
suspended for gambling may be required to attend counseling. In all situations,
gambling paraphernalia will be confiscated and not returned.
GANGS AND GANG ACTIVITY
Gang activity in Old Bridge High School or on school property is prohibited. The high
school defines a gang as an organized association, either formal or informal, of two or
more persons with common signs, symbols and other identifying factors, who
individually or collectively engage in criminal activity. Gang activity includes, but is
not limited to, intimidating others, threatening others, and participating in and/or
enticing others to participate in any form of physical violence involving persons or
property. Gang member activity may be identified by: self admission of gang
membership, witness testimony, correspondence such as notes, letters, tapes, etc. of
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gang membership, paraphernalia or photographs of gang activities, gang related tattoos,
gang related clothing or colors, association with known gang members, the display or
possession of gang symbols, soliciting others for membership, requesting payment of
dues, insurance, or other forms of protection from any individual, intimidating or
threatening any individual, and/or inciting others to participate in any form of physical
violence involving persons or property, or other criminal activity. Gang identifiers,
which may change periodically, will not be allowed to be displayed by anyone at any
time including after-school events or school sponsored activities. The high school
administration may prohibit any apparel, verbiage, or behavior it deems to be
associated with gang related activity. Violation of this policy will result in notification
of parents and/or guardians. Additionally, law enforcement may be notified and a
complaint filed. Students engaging in gang activity will be suspended out of school
and may face an expulsion hearing with Board of Education.
HARASSMENT - RACIAL/SEXUAL/BULLYING
The Board of Education explicitly forbids any conduct or expression that may be
construed as racial and/or sexual harassment of a pupil, by an employee of the district
or by another pupil. The racial harassment of a pupil includes any unwelcome
derogatory remarks or racial slurs about a person’s religion, race, or ethnic background.
Students should report any incident to a teacher or an administrator. First offense can
range from detention to out-of-school suspension. The sexual harassment of a pupil
includes all unwelcome sexual advances or suggestions, requests for sexual favors,
verbal or physical contacts of a sexual nature whenever such conduct has the purpose
of intimidation or tends to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.
Pupils are to report any incident of sexual harassment to a teacher or an administrator.
Additionally, the administration will act upon information from faculty and staff when
they report they have observed racial/sexual harassment between students. First
offense can range from detention to out-of-school suspension depending on the severity
of the situation.
HATS/BANDANAS/SWEATBANDS/BEATS Students shall not enter the building wearing any kind of head covering (except for
bona fide religious purposes). Additionally, students shall not wear or carry any head
covering during the school day including during fire drills. Hats and other headwear,
including but not limited to Beats or similar headphones, will be confiscated and
returned at end of current semester or via parent pick-up. Students who repeatedly
violate the regulation will be subject to additional discipline ranging from office
detention to out of school suspension. Students may not use any hair band exceeding ½
inch in width to restrain his/her hair. Such items may only be used to hold back hair
and may not be worn on any other part of the body. (i.e. forehead, neck, etc.) Bandanas
and sweatbands may never be substituted for a hair band. Students are also prohibited
from wearing hoods and will be subject to disciplinary consequences.
HORSEPLAY/INAPPROPRIATE PHYSICAL CONTACT
Students are cautioned against horseplay and “play-fighting.” This type of immature
behavior often leads to someone becoming angry and may result in a fight.
Participation in horseplay/inappropriate physical contact will result in a minimum
penalty of AIP, up to and including out of school suspension. Students/Parents will be
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held financially liable and will be required to make restitution for any school property
that is damaged.
INAPPROPRIATE ITEMS
Items that include but are not limited to toys, water balloons, water spraying devices,
laser pointers, paintball guns, music devices, cameras, unsafe items, and inappropriate
articles for a safe, orderly, and respectful classroom or school environment are not
permitted in school. At the discretion of administration, some items will be
permanently confiscated while others may be returned to a student or parent. In
addition, discipline can range from office detention to out of school suspension. Any
student, who does not turn over any device to a staff member, will be considered
insubordinate and subject to out-of-school suspension.
INSUBORDINATION
Students, who fail to cooperate with staff members, are willfully disobedient, and
openly defiant, will receive out-of-school suspension in the following circumstances;
Students who refuse to immediately and accurately identify themselves will be subject
to a 2-5 day out-of-school suspension for the first offense. All other acts of
insubordination including, but not limited to, walking away from a staff member,
refusing to relinquish an inappropriate item, refusing to follow administrative
directives, refusing to leave a classroom, refusing to change his/her seat, failing to
report to the office as directed, will be subject to a 2-5 day out-of-school suspension for
the first offense. Insubordination of any kind that is directed at an administrator will
result in minimum 4 day OSS. A continued pattern of defiance and willful
disobedience will result in escalating out of school suspensions. Students may also be
subject to a high school disciplinary hearing.
INTERNET USE
The internet is a valuable resource which students are expected to use in an appropriate
manner. We believe technology will help propel today’s schools into the information
age by allowing students and staff to access and use information sources from distant
computers, communicate and share information with individuals or groups and
significantly expand their knowledge base. The Internet is a tool for lifelong learning
and only begins to open the door to many advanced tools.
Through the Internet, students and staff will have access to
1. World-wide electronic mail communication.
2. Information and news from government and other research institutions, such
as NASA.
3. Public domain software and shareware of all types.
4. Discussion groups on a plethora of topics ranging from Chinese culture to the
environment to music to politics.
5. University Library Catalogs, the Library of Congress and ERIC.
INTERNET REGULATIONS
The most important prerequisite for users of an Internet account is that they take full
responsibility for their own actions. The Old Bridge Township Public School system
will not be liable for the actions of anyone connecting to the Internet through this
network. All users shall assume full accountability, legal, financial, or otherwise, for
their actions.
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1. Student users must always get permission from their instructors before using
the Internet.
2. Users must sign-in legibly (first and last names) on the appropriate log or
register in the classroom each time they use the Internet.
3. Students will use the Internet to:
a. complete class assignments
b. complete college and career searches, and
c. obtain information requested by faculty or staff advisor
4. All users have the same right to the use of equipment and shall not waste time
or supplies.
5. Users who have read and agreed to this policy and who have signed contracts
will have access to the Internet. Users under the age of eighteen must have
contracts co-signed by a parent or guardian.
INTERNET PRACTICES
In general, inappropriate and unacceptable practices include accessing/downloading
information not appropriately related to learning. This may include but is not limited
to:
1. Use for for-profit activities.
2. Use for private or personal business.
3. Academic dishonesty.
4. Transmission of material in violation of any US or State regulation. This
includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening or obscene
material, or material protected by trade secret.
5. Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user.
6. Uploading, downloading or creating a computer virus.
7. Persistent annoyance of another user or interference with another user’s
work.
8. Willful damage to any computer materials (hardware or software).
9. Deliberate access to inappropriate practices.
10. Sharing knowledge of inappropriate practices.
11. Harassment of other users.
12. Unauthorized use of accounts.
13. Stealing passwords
14. Any illegal activities (i.e. hacking into bank accounts, transmission of credit
card account numbers, hacking into any unauthorized areas).
INTERNET VIOLATION PENALTIES
Willful violation of the above internet policy may result in loss of access and/or other
school disciplinary actions. Serious or criminal violations of this policy may result in
suspension, expulsion, and/or legal action.
LEAVING CLASS WITHOUT PERMISSION
Students who leave class without permission will be subject to the following
disciplinary action. 1st offense = 1 afterschool detention, 2nd offense = 1 Saturday
detention, 3rd offense = AIP, 4th and subsequent offenses = escalating consequences
possibly including out of school suspension.
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LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS
Students who leave school grounds without permission will be subject to the following:
1st offense – 1 day out-of-school and a parent-administrator conference.
2nd and subsequent offenses will result in escalating out-of-school suspensions and may
require a disciplinary hearing.
Any Junior who leaves school grounds at any time during his/her Junior school year
may be ineligible to receive a permit to park on campus during senior year. Seniors
who leave school grounds will have their parking privileges revoked.
***Geick Park without supervision is considered off school grounds***
LIGHTERS, MATCHES, AND INCENDIARY DEVICES
Students have no appropriate reasons for bringing cigarette lighters and/or matches to
school. That being the case, any cigarette lighters and/or matches discovered by staff
will be permanently confiscated and the student will be disciplined accordingly.
Students who are in possession of any kind of incendiary device will be subject to
discipline.
OUT OF BOUNDS WHILE IN OR OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL BUILDING
All students must be present inside the school building during the school day. Students
are also expected to be in their appropriate class during the school day. Students found
“out of bounds”, in unsupervised areas (i.e. hallways, parking lot, etc.) will be subject
to the following disciplinary action: 1st offense – AIP, 2nd offense – 1 Saturday
detention, 3rd and subsequent offenses – escalating consequences, possibly including
out of school suspension.
PARKING/DRIVING REGULATIONS
Driving to school is a privilege. The privilege will be denied to any student not
adhering to the rules and regulations listed below:
1. Seniors are not permitted to leave school property during the school day or go to
their car during the school day without administrative approval.
2. Seniors may not cut any classes or they will lose their driving privilege.
3. Excessive lates to school may result in a twenty (20) school day suspension of
driving privileges. Subsequent lates to school may result in a permanent loss of
driving privileges
4. Automobiles must be registered with the Main Office.
5. A speed limit of not more than 10 miles per hour must be observed.
6. Students caught violating safe driving practices may forfeit their parking
privileges.
7. Courtesy and right of way are to be given to pedestrians.
8. Park in designated spaces.
9. Students are not permitted to park in staff parking lots without admin
10. Current juniors who park on campus will be subject to the following discipline:
a. 1st offense – Verbal Warning that subsequent offenses will result in
losing parking privileges for senior year and disciplinary consequences.
b. 2nd offense – 1 day OSS and the student will not be permitted to obtain a
parking pass during their senior year.
c. 3rd offense and beyond – escalating OSS
11. Seniors will lose privileges for other infractions as indicated in the student parking
contract.
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12. Seniors who park on campus after their parking tag has been revoked will be
suspended out of school.
13. Seniors are required to surrender their parking tag upon administrative request.
Seniors cannot discard the parking tag and will be required to reimburse the school
the cost of reproducing the tag if it is lost, stolen and/or discarded. In addition, the
original possessor of the parking tag will be subject to discipline in the event the
revoked parking tag is found to be in use by another student.
14. Seniors who leave school early as a result of illness during the school day will not
be permitted to drive home. A parent or guardian must pick up student.
15. Any student not authorized to park on school grounds will receive appropriate
consequences.
16. Beginning with the start of the second semester, any current junior who cuts a
class, receives an out of school suspension, parks on campus without
administrative authorization, or receives three or more AIP’s, Saturday detentions,
and/or afterschool detentions may be ineligible for a parking permit for the next
academic year.
17. Administration reserves the right to revoke student parking privileges due to
inappropriate behavior and/or excessive misconduct.
PERSONAL GROOMING
Personal grooming in class is not appropriate. Brushing hair, polishing or cutting nails,
applying makeup or other acts of personal grooming are restricted to bathrooms.
Students, who engage in personal grooming during class, including Homeroom, may
face disciplinary consequences.
PRIVILEGES/RIGHTS
Students become may lose the opportunity to participate in privileged activities (ex.
dances, prom, parking, etc.) as a result of misconduct in school or while participating in
school related activities. As the school year draws to a close, the options to administer
discipline increasingly limited. As a result, students who engage in misconduct may be
denied participation in the Graduation Ceremony, Project Graduation, and/or proms.
Attendance at these events is a privilege not a right.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
Public displays of affection in the school building, on school property, or at school
sponsored events are strictly prohibited. Students who engage in public displays of
affection may be subject to the appropriate consequences.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The Board of Education recognizes that the privacy of students may not be violated by
unreasonable search and seizure and directs that no student be searched without his or
her consent unless there are reasonable grounds to do so in accordance with the terms
of this policy and case law. The Board acknowledges the need for the in-school’s
storage of student possessions and shall provide storage places, including desks and
lockers, for that purpose. Where locks are provided for such places, students may lock
them against incursion by other students, but in no such places shall students have such
an expectation of privacy as to prevent examination by a school official. School
authorities are charged with the responsibility of safeguarding the health, safety, and
well-being of the students in their care. Consistent with this, school lockers will be
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subject to periodic inspection. Additionally, in the discharge of this responsibility, the
Board directs its administrators to investigate the presence of a substance or object of
possession, of which is illegal, or poses a hazard to the safety and good order of the
schools, whenever there are reasonable grounds to suspect the presence of such
substance or object.
SEARCH OF STUDENT PROPERTY
The principal and/or a designee may conduct a search if there are reasonable grounds
for suspecting that the said search may reveal evidence that the student has violated or
is violating the law or the regulations of the school. The scope of the search shall be
reasonably related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light
of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the suspected infraction. Students
are reminded that lockers are the property of the school and may be searched by
administration, periodically, throughout the school year.
SECURITY BREACH
Students who are found to prop an exterior door open or open an unauthorized door to
let a student/visitor in for any reason will result in 2 days out of school suspension,
escalating upon additional offenses.
SMOKING AND POSSESSION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS ON SCHOOL
PROPERTY
The Board of Education recognizes smoking is against the law and presents a health
hazard, which can have serious consequences, both for the smoker and nonsmoker and
is, therefore, of concern to the Board. The possession or use of tobacco products or
other smoking devices, including but not limited to vapes, hookah pens, e-cigarettes,
etc. on school property is prohibited. Students who violate this policy are subject to:
1st offense – 1 day afterschool detention. Student will be required to attend smoking
cessation counseling with the Student Assistance Counselor. 2nd offense – 1 Saturday
detention and 3rd and subsequent offenses – escalating out-of-school suspension
beginning with a 2 day out-of-school suspension. Students confirmed to be using these
products in the school building may receive additional discipline and may be subject to
drug screening and/or medical clearance to return to school (See Board Policy 5530).
(N.B. Contacting DYFS may be necessary to address parents who state they supply,
purchase, and/or condone the use of tobacco products by their children who are under
the age of 18.)
THEFT/VANDALISM
Any offense causing damage or defacing of school property, vehicles parked on school
property, or theft will result in a 4 day out of school suspension, police complaint
and/or an expulsion hearing by the Board of Education. Students who find, or are
given, school and/or another person’s property are expected to immediately relinquish
the item to the main office or be subjected to a stealing offense. Students who are in
possession of stolen property will be subject to the same consequences as students who
steal. Students who have information regarding individuals involved in a
theft/vandalism incident must report it to an administrator or will be subject to
discipline. Furthermore, students who have tacit or passive involvement in
theft/vandalism will be subject to the same stealing/vandalism offense. Parents and
students will be held responsible for damages/restitution.
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TRUANCY
Students who are truant from school will receive an unexcused absence from each class
missed, be subject to disciplinary action, and incur academic penalties. Any
subsequent truancy may cause the student to be suspended from school pending a
parent conference.
1st offense – AIP and administrator and counselor-parent contact.
2nd and subsequent offenses – escalating out-of-school suspensions beginning with 3
days and a high school disciplinary hearing. Please see additional information
regarding truancy in Appendix D.
VERBAL ASSAULTS/MENACING THREATS Defined as “attempting by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious
bodily injury, or threatening to commit any crime of violence with the purpose to
terrorize another.” Students who verbally assault or threaten a member of the staff or
Board of Education will be suspended out-of-school for 4-9 days. The staff member
will be informed of the threat, a parent conference will be held, and a police report may
be filed. Students who verbally or physically threaten another student will be subject to
appropriate disciplinary action. The severity of the incident and repetition of similar
situations are factors that will be used to determine consequences. Local law
enforcement may be contacted depending on the severity of the incident and the student
may also require an outside evaluation to determine clearance to return to school.
WEAPONS POSSESSION
The Board of Education believes all students and staff members have the right to a safe
educational environment. Hence, weapons of any type are strictly prohibited on school
premises or at any Board of Education approved activity.
Definition: For the purpose of this policy, “weapon” is defined as any item: (defined by
State Statute 2C:39-1/2C:39-4/2C:39-5)
capable of causing harm or bodily injury for which there is no education or
instructional program
observed to have been displayed or used as a weapon
This definition includes, but is not limited to:
Guns, knives, box cutters, blackjacks, razors/razor blades, stun guns, mace/pepper
spray/tear gas, explosive devices/pyrotechnic devices, martial arts weapons, brass
knuckles, firearms and imitation firearms, destructive devices, and any other weapons
with a purpose to use unlawfully against the person or property of another. Non-lethal
items that are disguised and/or used to imitate a weapon for unlawful and inappropriate
purpose may be treated with the same severity.
WEAPONS PENALTIES
There shall be an immediate suspension pending a hearing before the Board of
Education for any student found to be in possession of a gun or who has displayed a
gun on school premises or any Board of Education approved activity. In all other cases
involving weapons, the Principal and the Superintendent shall determine the
disciplinary action. The duration of the suspension or the necessity of a Board hearing
will be decided by the Superintendent based upon her/his determination of the
individual situation on a case by case basis. All incidents will be reported to the state by
a Violence and Vandalism Report. In all cases of weapons possession, the Old Bridge
Police will be notified and local and state statutes enforced.
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DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES/CONSEQUENCES Depending on the incident, students may be subject to:
Suspension of privileges and
exclusion from participation in
extra-curricular activities
Confiscation of unacceptable/
inappropriate items
Teacher Detention
Afterschool Detention
Saturday Detention
Alternative Instructional Program
Out-of-School Suspension
Disciplinary Hearing
45 Day Alternate Placement
Board of Education Hearing
Expulsion from School
Confiscated Items:
The confiscated item will be returned at the end of the current semester or via parent
pick-up at the conclusion of the school day it was confiscated and not returned to the
student until after dismissal. In some instances, an inappropriate item may be
permanently confiscated and disciplinary action may occur.
Teacher Detention: Assigned by a faculty member for various reasons. Students who
fail to attend a teacher detention will be subject to an administratively assigned
afterschool detention.
Afterschool Detention: Assigned for various reasons related to student misconduct.
Afterschool Detention is held Monday through Friday from 2:15 pm until 3:50 pm.
The administration reserves the right to adjust detention times pursuant to a finalized
after school bus schedule which was not complete at the time this handbook was
created.
Saturday Detention: Saturday Detention is a two hour consequence that may be
assigned for student misconduct. Saturday Detention is held at OBHS from 8:00 am
until 10:00 am. Parents are responsible for student transportation.
Alternative Instructional Program: AIP is held during regular school hours. It is
assigned for various reasons related to student misconduct. Students who misbehave or
are disruptive in AIP may be suspended out-of-school.
Out-of-School Suspension: Assigned for serious, multiple, and/or repeated infractions
of school rules and regulations. Nine (9) day suspensions are issued for weapon
possession, fighting, arson, assaults, repeated violations of the drug policy,
sexual/racial harassment of a staff member (and/or students depending on the
circumstances), bomb threats, creating a false fire alarm, theft/destruction of school
property, discharging explosives, and encouraging a student protest. The suspension
period begins at 2:06 p.m. on the day the suspension notification and/or letter is issued.
Students suspended out of school may not participate in any extra-curricular activities
or appear on school grounds during the suspension period. Suspended students found
on school property will be considered trespassing and are subject to additional days of
out of school suspension and arrest. A parent conference is required prior to a student
returning to school. If school is closed due to unforeseen circumstances, including
inclement weather, the suspension date(s) will be extended so that the student serves
the full suspension period.
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HEARINGS, ALTERNATE PLACEMENT, EXPULSION
Hearings at the building or Board level occur as the result of serious and/or repeated
infractions of Board policy, school rules/regulations, and/or statute.
HIGH SCHOOL DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE
The high school disciplinary committee shall consist of the Principal, Vice Principals,
Deans of Discipline, Guidance Counselor and/or Child Study Team members, and
anyone else involved in the incident.
RESTORATIVE DISCIPLINE PROGRAM
The Restorative Discipline Program incorporates school/community service, character
education and our Alternative Instructional Program to promote a positive and orderly
school environment and culture.
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APPENDIX A
OLD BRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
Infraction Consequences
Abusive Language/Profanity
Afterschool Detention OSS
Abusive Language/Profanity to Staff Member
2-4 days OSS, parent conference and apology
Assault on Staff Member Immediate OSS pending Board Hearing and police report
Assault on Student (unprovoked)
9 OSS, Disciplinary Hearing and police report
Bus Misconduct Warning OSS and possible revocation of bus privileges
Cell Phone Confiscation to escalating discipline and parent pick-up of item
Class Cuts
1st, 2nd & 3rd offense
4th, 5th & 6th offense
7th, 8th & 9th offense
10th offense & beyond
Afterschool Detention for each offense
Saturday Detention for each offense
AIP for each offense
OSS (escalating days)
Dress Code Violation
1st offense 2nd offense & beyond
Warning (parent notification)
Escalating consequences (parent meeting)
Drug & Alcohol Possession
9 days OSS, police report and possible Disciplinary Hearing
Drug & Alcohol Sale or Distribution
Immediate OSS pending Board Hearing and police report
Drug & Alcohol Use
1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense
4 days OSS (Drug Monitoring)
7 days OSS 9 days OSS and High School Disciplinary Hearing
Failure to Serve Teacher Assigned Detention
Afterschool Detention
Failure to Serve Office or Afterschool Detention
Saturday Detention
Failure to Serve Saturday Detention/AIP
1 day OSS (escalating days for additional offenses)
Fighting 1st offense 2nd offense
4 days OSS 9 days OSS and High School Disciplinary Hearing
Food (throwing/fight) Saturday Detention to possible escalating OSS
Gambling
1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense
1 Afterschool Detention
1 –AIP parent meeting with SAC
2 OSS (escalating days)
Harassment (Sexual/Racial/Bullying)
Afterschool Detention OSS and Guidance Referral
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Horseplay/Inappropriate Physical Contact
AIP OSS
Inappropriate/Confiscated Items
Returned at end of current semester or parent pick-up and possible Extended detention OSS
Insubordination (i.e. failure to relinquish phone, hat, headphones, failure to identify, etc.)
2-5 days OSS
Insubordination to an Administrator
Minimum 4 days OSS
Hats Afterschool Detention OSS
Late to School (unexcused)
5th Lates 10th Lates 15th Lates 16th + Lates
Afterschool Detention
Saturday Detention
AIP Administration Referral
Leaving Class Without Permission
1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense 4th offense
Afterschool Detention
Saturday Detention
AIP OSS (escalating)
Leaving School Grounds 1st offense 2nd offense
1 day OSS Escalating OSS
Out of Bounds (in school or on school grounds)
1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense
Afterschool Detention
Saturday Detention AIP/OSS Escalating Discipline
Parking Violations (parking without permission)
1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense
Verbal warning
1 OSS (Juniors may be ineligible for parking pass)
OSS (escalating days)
Security Breach (Propping/opening doors)
2 days OSS (escalating)
Smoking (possession/use)
1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense
Afterschool Detention SAC referral
Saturday Detention AIP/OSS (escalating)
Theft/Vandalism OSS (days determined by offense), police report and possible Board Hearing
Truancy 1st offense 2nd offense
AIP and parent contact 3 days OSS (escalating days)
Verbal Assault/Threat to Staff Member
4-9 days OSS, parent conference and possible police report
Verbal Assault/Threat to Student
Appropriate disciplinary actions and/or possible police report and/or outside evaluation for clearance to return to school
Weapons Immediate OSS pending Board Hearing and police report
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APPENDIX B
New Jersey Administrative Code 6A: 16-4.3
REPORTING, NOTIFICATION, AND EXAIMINATION PROCEDURES FOR
STUDENTS SUSPECTED OF BEING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF
ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS
(a) In instances involving alcoholic beverages, controlled dangerous substances other
than anabolic steroids, or any other chemical compound as identified in N.J.S.A.
18A:40A-9 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(a), the following shall apply:
1. Any educational staff member or other professional to whom it appears that a student
may be currently under the influence of alcohol or other drugs on school grounds,
including on a school bus or at a school-sponsored function, shall report the matter as
soon as possible to the principal and either the certified school nurse, the noncertified
nurse, the school physician or the substance awareness coordinator, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-12.
i. In the absence of the principal, his or her designee shall be notified.
ii. In instances where the principal and either the certified school nurse, non-certified
nurse, the school physician or the substance awareness coordinator are not in
attendance, the staff member responsible for the school function shall be immediately
notified.
iii. The referring staff member shall complete the Violence, Vandalism and Substance
Abuse Incident Report, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-
5.3.
2. In response to every report by an educational staff member or other professional of
suspected student alcohol or other drug use, the principal or his or her designee shall:
i. Immediately notify the parent and the chief school administrator or his or her
designee; and
ii. Arrange for an immediate medical examination of the student for the purposes of
providing appropriate health care for the student and for determining whether the
student is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, other than anabolic steroids.
3. The chief school administrator or designee may, but need not, disclose to law
enforcement authorities the identity of a student suspected to be under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs, pursuant to (a)1 above.
i. The chief school administrator shall disclose to law enforcement authorities the
identity of a student reasonably believed to be in possession of a controlled dangerous
substance or related paraphernalia or a student reasonably believed to be involved or
implicated in distribution activities regarding controlled dangerous substances.
4. The medical examination, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(a)2ii, shall be performed
by a physician licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy that is selected by the parent.
i. The school district, in cooperation with medical professionals licensed to practice
medicine or osteopathy, shall establish the minimum requirements for the medical
examination.
i. When the medical examination is conducted by a physician selected by the parent,
the examination shall be at the expense of the parent and shall not be at the expense of
the district board of education.
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5. If the physician chosen by the parent is not immediately available, the medical
examination shall be conducted by the school physician.
i. If the school physician is not available, the student shall be accompanied by a
member of the school staff, designated by the principal, to the emergency room of the
nearest hospital for examination.
ii. The student's parent, if available, also shall accompany the student.
iii. When the medical examination is conducted by the school physician or a physician
at the emergency room of the nearest hospital, such examination shall be at the expense
of the district board of education.
6. Each district board of education shall have a plan in place for the appropriate
supervision of the student:
i. While waiting for a parent to take the student to the physician selected by the parent,
or while the student is waiting for and receiving the medical examination by the school
physician or a physician in an emergency room; and
ii. Provisions shall be made for the appropriate care of the student while awaiting the
results of the medical examination.
7. A written report of the medical examination shall be furnished to the parent of the
student, the principal and the chief school administrator by the examining physician
within 24 hours of the referral of the student for suspected alcohol or other drug use.
i. The school district, in cooperation with the school physician or medical professionals
licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy, shall establish the minimum requirements
for the medical report:
ii. The findings of the report shall verify whether the student's alcohol or other drug use
interferes with his or her physical and mental ability to perform in school.
8. When the medical examination is performed by a physician other than the school
physician or a physician at the emergency room of the nearest hospital, the school
district shall require the parent to verify within 24 hours of the notification that the
student is suspected of alcohol or other drug use that a medical examination was
performed in compliance with (a) 7i above.
i. The verification shall include, at a minimum, the signature, printed name, address and
phone number of the examining physician, the date and time of the medical
examination and the date by which the report required by (a)7 above will be provided.
ii. Refusal or failure by a parent to comply with this requirement shall be treated as a
policy violation and handled in accordance with (d) below.
9. If the written report of the medical examination is not submitted to the parent,
principal and chief school administrator within 24 hours of the referral of the student
for suspected alcohol or other drug use, the student shall be allowed to return to school
until such time as a positive determination of alcohol or other drug use is received from
the physician.
10. If the written report of the medical examination verifies that alcohol or other drugs
do not interfere with the student's physical and mental ability to perform in school, the
student shall be immediately returned to school.
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11. If there is a positive determination from the medical examination, indicating that
the student's alcohol or other drug use interferes with his or her physical or mental
ability to perform in school:
i. The student shall be returned to the care of a parent as soon as possible;
ii. Attendance at school shall not resume until a written report has been submitted to the
parent, the principal and chief school administrator from a physician licensed to
practice medicine or osteopathy who has examined the student to determine whether
alcohol or other drug use interferes with his or her physical or mental ability to perform
in school;
(1) The report shall verify that the student's alcohol or other drug use no longer
interferes with his or her physical and mental ability to perform in school; and
iii. Removal of a student with a disability shall be made in accordance with N.J.A.C.
6A:14.
12. While the student is at home because of the medical examination or after the
student returns to school, an individual who holds the Educational Services Certificate
with the substance awareness coordinator endorsement issued by the New Jersey State
Board of Examiners or an individual who holds either a school nurse, school nurse/non-
instructional, school psychologist, school counselor, school social worker or student
personnel services endorsement on the Educational Services Certificate and is trained
to assess alcohol and other drug abuse shall:
i. Conduct an alcohol and other drug assessment of the student and a reasonable
investigation of the situation, which may include interviews with the student's teachers
and parents and consultation with experts in student alcohol or other drug abuse as may
be appropriate and necessary, for the purpose of making a preliminary determination of
the student's need for educational programs, supportive services or treatment which
extend beyond the general school program by virtue of the use of alcohol or other drugs
by the student.
(1) The findings of the assessment alone shall not be used to prevent a student from
attending school; and
ii. Cooperate with community agencies as defined in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(b) and
juvenile justice officials in providing evaluation, referral and continuity of care for
alcohol or other drug abuse treatment.
13. While the student is at home because of the medical examination or after his or her
return to school, the principal or chief school administrator may recommend or require
alcohol and other drug assessment of the student or evaluation by appropriately
certified or licensed professionals to make a positive determination of a student's need
for programs and services which extend beyond the general school program, as
necessary.
i. The findings of these additional evaluations alone shall not be used to prevent a
student from attending school.
14. If at any time it is determined that the student's use of alcohol or other drugs
presents a danger to the student's health and well-being, an individual who holds the
Educational Services Certificate with the substance awareness coordinator endorsement
or an individual who holds either a school nurse, school nurse/non-instructional, school
psychologist, school counselor, school social worker or student personnel services
endorsement on the Educational Services Certificate and is trained in alcohol and other
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drug abuse treatment referral shall initiate a referral for alcohol or other drug abuse
treatment.
15. The district board of education may provide additional intervention and referral
services for the student according to the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-10 and
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8.
(b) In instances involving the suspected use of anabolic steroids, the following shall
apply according to the requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-12(b):
1. Whenever any teaching staff member, certified or non-certified school nurse or other
educational personnel shall have reason to believe that a student has used or may be
using anabolic steroids, that person shall report the matter as soon as possible to the
principal and either the certified or non-certified school nurse, the school physician or
the substance awareness coordinator.
i. In the absence of the principal, his or her designee shall be notified.
2. The principal or his or her designee shall immediately notify the parent and the chief
school administrator and shall arrange for an examination of the student by a physician
licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy selected by the parent.
i. If the physician chosen by the parent is not available to perform the examination, the
examination shall be conducted by the school physician or other physician identified by
the principal.
ii. The student shall be examined as soon as possible for the purpose of determining
whether the student has been using anabolic steroids.
3. The chief school administrator or designee may, but need not, disclose to law
enforcement authorities the identity of a student suspected to have used or who may be
using anabolic steroids, pursuant to (b)1 above.
i. The chief school administrator shall disclose to law enforcement authorities the
identity of a student reasonably believed to be in possession of anabolic steroids or
related paraphernalia or a student reasonably believed to be involved or implicated in
distribution activities involving anabolic steroids.
4. The examining physician shall provide a written report of the examination to the
parent, the principal and the chief school administrator.
5. If it is determined that the student has used anabolic steroids, an individual who
holds the Educational Services Certificate with the substance awareness coordinator
endorsement issued by the New Jersey State Board of Examiners or an individual who
holds either the school nurse, school nurse/non-instructional, school psychologist,
school counselor, school social worker or student personnel services endorsement on
the Educational Services Certificate and is trained to assess alcohol and other drug
abuse shall interview the student and others, as necessary, for the purpose of
determining the extent of the student's involvement with and use of anabolic steroids
and the possible need for referral for treatment.
i. To make this determination, the school staff members identified in (b)5 above may
conduct a reasonable investigation, which may include interviews with the student's
teachers and parents and consultation with experts in student alcohol or other drug
abuse, as may be appropriate and necessary.
6. If the results of a referral for evaluation have positively determined that the student's
involvement with and use of anabolic steroids represents a danger to the student's
health and well-being, an individual who holds the Educational Services Certificate
with the substance awareness coordinator endorsement issued by the New Jersey State
Board of Examiners or an individual who holds either a school nurse, school nurse/non-
62
instructional, school psychologist, school counselor, school social worker or student
personnel services endorsement on the Educational Services Certificate and is trained
to assess alcohol and other drug abuse shall initiate a referral for treatment to
appropriate community agencies, as defined in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(b), to out-of-State
agencies licensed by the appropriate State regulatory agency for alcohol and other drug
services, or to private practitioners certified by the appropriate drug and alcohol
licensing board.
(c) Any educational or non-educational school staff member who in good faith reports a
student to the principal or his or her designee in compliance with the provisions of this
subsection shall not be liable in civil damages as a result of making such a report, as
specified in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-13 and 14.
(d) Refusal or failure by a parent to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-
12 and this section shall be treated as a policy violation of the Compulsory Education
Act, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 and 31, and child neglect laws, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 9:6-1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-11.
(e) Refusal or failure of a student to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-
12 and this section shall be treated by the school district as a policy violation and
handled in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)2.
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Appendix C 5512 HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING
Table of Contents Section Title
A. Policy Statement
B. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Definition
C. Student Expectations
D. Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions
E. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Reporting Procedure
F. Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Anti-Bullying Specialist, and School Safety Team(s)
G. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Investigation
H. Range of Responses to an Incident of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying
I. Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited
J. Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Action for False Accusation
K. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Publication and Dissemination
L. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Training and Prevention Programs
M. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Reevaluation, Reassessment and
Review N. Reports to Board of Education and New Jersey Department of Education
O. School and District Grading Requirements
P. Reports to Law Enforcement
Q. Collective Bargaining Agreements and Individual Contracts
R. Students with Disabilities
A. Policy Statement
The Board of Education prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a
student. A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for students to learn and
achieve high academic standards. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying, like other
disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn
and a school’s ability to educate its students in a safe and disciplined environment.
Since students learn by example, school administrators, faculty, staff and volunteers
should be commended for demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with
civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
For the purposes of this Policy, the term "parent," pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.3,
means the natural parent(s) or adoptive parent(s), legal guardian(s), foster parent(s), or
parent surrogate(s) of a student. Where parents are separated or divorced, "parent"
means the person or agency which has legal custody of the student, as well as the
natural or adoptive parent(s) of the student, provided such parental rights have not been
terminated by a court of appropriate jurisdiction.
B. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Definition
“Harassment, intimidation, or bullying” means any gesture, any written, verbal or
physical act, or any electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14,
whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents that:
1. Is reasonably perceived as being motivated by either any actual or perceived
characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual
orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability,
or by any other distinguishing characteristic;
2. Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus,
or off school grounds, as provided for in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.3;
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3. Substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the
rights of other students; and that
a. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have
the effect of physically or emotionally harming a student or damaging the student’s
property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to
his/her person or damage to his/her property; or
b. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students; or
c. Creates a hostile educational environment for the student by interfering with a
student’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to
the student.
Schools are required to address harassment, intimidation, and bullying occurring off
school grounds, when there is a nexus between the harassment, intimidation, and
bullying and the school (e.g., the harassment, intimidation, or bullying substantially
disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other
students).
“Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an
electronic device, including, but not limited to: a telephone, cellular phone, computer,
or pager.
C. Student Expectations
The Board expects students to conduct themselves in keeping with their levels of
development, maturity and demonstrated capabilities with proper regard for the rights
and welfare of other students and school staff, the educational purpose underlying all
school activities and the care of school facilities and equipment consistent with the
Code of Student Conduct.
The Board believes that standards for student behavior must be set cooperatively
through interaction among the students, parents, school employees, school
administrators, school volunteers, and community representatives, producing an
atmosphere that encourages students to grow in self-discipline. The development of this
atmosphere requires respect for self and others, as well as for school district and
community property on the part of students, staff, and community members.
Students are expected to behave in a way that creates a supportive learning
environment. The Board believes the best discipline is self-imposed, and it is the
responsibility of staff to use instances of violations of the Code of Student Conduct as
opportunities to help students learn to assume and accept responsibility for their
behavior and the consequences of their behavior. Staff members who interact with
students shall apply best practices designed to prevent student conduct problems and
foster students’ abilities to grow in self-discipline.
The Board expects that students will act in accordance with the student behavioral
expectations and standards regarding harassment, intimidation, and bullying, including:
1. Student responsibilities (e.g., requirements for students to conform to reasonable
standards of socially accepted behavior; respect the person, property and rights of
others; obey constituted authority; and respond to those who hold that authority);
2. Appropriate recognition for positive reinforcement for good conduct, self-discipline,
and good citizenship;
3. Student rights; and
4. Sanctions and due process for violations of the Code of Student Conduct. Pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15(a) and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)1, the district has involved a broad-
base of school and community members, including parents, students, instructional staff,
student support services staff, school administrators, and school volunteers, as well as
65
community organizations, such as faith-based, health and human service, business and
law enforcement, in the development of this Policy. Based on locally determined and
accepted core ethical values adopted by the Board, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)2,
the Board must develop guidelines for student conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1.
These guidelines for student conduct will take into consideration the developmental
ages of students, the severity of the offenses and students’ histories of inappropriate
behaviors, and the mission and physical facilities of the individual school(s) in the
district. This Policy requires all students in the district to adhere to the rules established
by the school district and to submit to the remedial and consequential measures that are
appropriately assigned for infractions of these rules.
Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1, the Superintendent must annually provide to students
and their parents the rules of the district regarding student conduct. Provisions shall be
made for informing parents whose primary language is other than English.
The district prohibits active or passive support for acts of harassment, intimidation, or
bullying. Students are encouraged to support other students who:
1. Walk away from acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying when they see them;
2. Constructively attempt to stop acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;
3. Provide support to students who have been subjected to harassment, intimidation, or
bullying; and
4. Report acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying to the designated school staff
member.
D. Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions
Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions – Students
The Board of Education requires its school administrators to implement procedures that
ensure both the appropriate consequences and remedial responses for students who
commit one or more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, consistent with the
Code of Student Conduct. The following factors, at a minimum, shall be given full
consideration by school administrators in the implementation of appropriate
consequences and remedial measures for each act of harassment, intimidation, or
bullying by students. Appropriate consequences and remedial actions are those that are
graded according to the severity of the offense(s), consider the developmental ages of
the student offenders and students’ histories of inappropriate behaviors, per the Code of
Student Conduct and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.
Factors for Determining Consequences – Student Considerations
1. Age, developmental and maturity levels of the parties involved and their relationship
to the school district;
2. Degrees of harm;
3. Surrounding circumstances;
4. Nature and severity of the behavior(s);
5. Incidences of past or continuing patterns of behavior;
6. Relationships between the parties involved; and
7. Context in which the alleged incidents occurred.
Factors for Determining Consequences – School Considerations
1. School culture, climate, and general staff management of the learning environment;
2. Social, emotional, and behavioral supports;
3. Student-staff relationships and staff behavior toward the student;
4. Family, community, and neighborhood situation; and
5. Alignment with Board policy and regulations/procedures.
Factors for Determining Remedial Measures
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Personal
1. Life skill deficiencies;
2. Social relationships;
3. Strengths;
4. Talents;
5. Interests;
6. Hobbies;
7. Extra-curricular activities;
8. Classroom participation;
9. Academic performance; and
10. Relationship to students and the school district.
Environmental
1. School culture;
2. School climate;
3. Student- staff relationships and staff behavior toward the student;
4. General staff management of classrooms or other educational environments;
5. Staff ability to prevent and manage difficult or inflammatory situations;
6. Social-emotional and behavioral supports;
7. Social relationships;
8. Community activities;
9. Neighborhood situation; and
10. Family situation.
Consequences for a student who commits one or more acts of harassment, intimidation,
or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including
suspension or expulsion of students, as set forth in the Board’s approved Code of
Student Conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16- 7.1. Consequences for a student who
commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying are those that are graded
according to the severity of the offenses, consider the developmental age of the student
offenders and the students’ histories of inappropriate consistent with the Board’s
approved Code of Student Conduct and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7, Student Conduct. The use of
negative consequences should occur in conjunction with remediation and not be relied
upon as the sole intervention approach. Remedial measures shall be designed to correct
the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of the problem, protect and provide
support for the victim of the act, and take corrective action for documented systemic
problems related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The consequences and
remedial measures may include, but are not limited to, the examples listed below:
Examples of Consequences
1. Admonishment;
2. Temporary removal from the classroom;
3. Deprivation of privileges;
4. Classroom or administrative detention;
5. Referral to disciplinarian;
6. In-school suspension;
7. Out-of-school suspension (short-term or long-term);
8. Reports to law enforcement or other legal action; or
9. Expulsion.
Examples of Remedial Measures
Personal – Student Exhibiting Bullying Behavior
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1. Develop a behavioral contract with the student. Ensure the student has a voice in the
outcome and can identify ways he or she can solve the problem and change behaviors;
2. Meet with parents to develop a family agreement to ensure the parent and the student
understand school rules and expectations;
3. Explain the long-term negative consequences of harassment, intimidation, and
bullying on all involved;
4. Ensure understanding of consequences, if harassment, intimidation, and bullying
behavior continues;
5. Meet with school counselor, school social worker, or school psychologist to decipher
mental health issues (e.g., what is happening and why?);
6. Develop a learning plan that includes consequences and skill building;
7. Consider wrap-around support services or after-school programs or services;
8. Provide social skill training, such as impulse control, anger management, developing
empathy, and problem solving;
9. Arrange for an apology, preferably written;
10. Require a reflective essay to ensure the student understands the impact of his or her
actions on others;
11. Have the student research and teach a lesson to the class about bullying, empathy,
or a similar topic;
12. Arrange for restitution (i.e., compensation, reimbursement, amends, repayment),
particularly when personal items were damaged or stolen;
13. Explore age-appropriate restorative (i.e., healing, curative, recuperative) practices;
and
14. Schedule a follow-up conference with the student.
Personal – Target/Victim
1. Meet with a trusted staff member to explore the student’s feelings about the incident;
2. Develop a plan to ensure the student’s emotional and physical safety at school;
3. Have the student meet with the school counselor or school social worker to ensure he
or she does not feel responsible for the bullying behavior;
4. Ask students to log behaviors in the future;
5. Help the student develop skills and strategies for resisting bullying; and
6. Schedule a follow-up conference with the student.
Parents, Family, and Community
1. Develop a family agreement;
2. Refer the family for family counseling; and
3. Offer parent education workshops related to bullying and social-emotional learning.
Examples of Remedial Measures – Environmental (Classroom, School Building, or
School District)
1. Analysis of existing data to identify bullying issues and concerns;
2. Use of findings from school surveys (e.g., school climate surveys);
3. Focus groups;
4. Mailings – postal and email;
5. Cable access television;
6. School culture change;
7. School climate improvement;
8. Increased supervision in “hot spots” (e.g. locker rooms, hallways, playgrounds,
cafeterias, school perimeters, buses);
9. Adoption of evidence-based systemic bullying prevention practices and programs;
10. Training for all certificated and non-certificated staff to teach effective prevention
and intervention skills and strategies;
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11. Professional development plans for involved staff;
12. Participation of parents and other community members and organizations (e.g.,
Parent Teacher Associations, Parent Teacher Organizations) in the educational program
and in problem-solving bullying issues;
13. Formation of professional learning communities to address bullying problems;
14. Small or large group presentations for fully addressing the actions and the school’s
response to the actions, in the context of the acceptable student and staff member
behavior and the consequences of such actions;
15. School policy and procedure revisions;
16. Modifications of schedules;
17. Adjustments in hallway traffic;
18. Examination and adoption of educational practices for actively engaging students in
the learning process and in bonding students to pro-social institutions and people;
19. Modifications in student routes or patterns traveling to and from school;
20. Supervision of student victims before and after school, including school
transportation;
21. Targeted use of monitors (e.g., hallway, cafeteria, locker room, playground, school
perimeter, bus);
22. Targeted use of teacher aides;
23. Disciplinary action, including dismissal, for school staff who contributed to the
problem;
24. Supportive institutional interventions, including participation in the Intervention
and Referral Services Team, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8;
25. Parent conferences;
26. Family counseling;
27. Development of a general harassment, intimidation, and bullying response plan;
28. Behavioral expectations communicated to students and parents;
29. Participation of the entire student body in problem-solving harassment,
intimidation, and bullying issues;
30. Recommendations of a student behavior or ethics council;
31. Participation in peer support groups;
32. School transfers; and
33. Involvement of law enforcement officers, including school resource officers and
juvenile officers or other appropriate legal action.
Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions – Adults
The district will also impose appropriate consequences and remedial actions to an adult
who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a student. The
consequences may include, but not be limited to: verbal or written reprimand,
increment withholding, legal action, disciplinary action, termination, and/or bans from
providing services, participating in school district-sponsored programs, or being in
school buildings or on school grounds. Remedial measures may include, but not be
limited to: in or out-of-school counseling, professional development programs, and
work environment modifications.
Target/Victim Support
Districts should identify a range of strategies and resources that will be available to
individual victims of harassment, intimidation, and bullying, and respond in a manner
that provides relief to victims and does not stigmatize victims or further their sense of
persecution. The type, diversity, location, and degree of support are directly related to
the student’s perception of safety.
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Sufficient safety measures should be undertaken to ensure the victims’ physical and
social-emotional well-being and their ability to learn in a safe, supportive, and civil
educational environment.
Examples of support for student victims of harassment, intimidation, and bullying
include:
1. Teacher aides;
2. Hallway and playground monitors;
3. Partnering with a school leader;
4. Provision of an adult mentor;
5. Assignment of an adult “shadow” to help protect the student;
6. Seating changes;
7. Schedule changes;
8. School transfers;
9. Before- and after-school supervision;
10. School transportation supervision;
11. Counseling; and
12. Treatment or therapy.
E. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Reporting Procedure
The Board of Education requires the Principal at each school to be responsible for
receiving complaints alleging violations of this Policy. All Board members, school
employees, and volunteers and contracted service providers who have contact with
students are required to verbally report alleged violations of this Policy to the Principal
or the Principal’s designee on the same day when the individual witnessed or received
reliable information regarding any such incident. All Board members, school
employees, and volunteers and contracted service providers who have contact with
students, also shall submit a report in writing to the Principal within two school days of
the verbal report. The Principal will inform the parents of all students involved in
alleged incidents, and, as appropriate, may discuss the availability of counseling and
other intervention services. The Principal, upon receiving a verbal or written report,
may take interim measures to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of all parties
pending the findings of the investigation.
Students, parents, and visitors are encouraged to report alleged violations of this Policy
to the Principal on the same day when the individual witnessed or received reliable
information regarding any such incident. Students, parents, and visitors may report an
act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying anonymously. Formal action for violations
of the Code of Student Conduct may not be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous
report.
A Board member or school employee who promptly reports an incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying and who makes this report in compliance with the procedures
set forth in this Policy, is immune from a cause of action for damages arising from any
failure to remedy the reported incident.
In accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-18, the harassment, intimidation,
and bullying law does not prevent a victim from seeking redress under any other
available law, either civil or criminal, nor does it create or alter any tort liability.
The district may consider every mechanism available to simplify reporting, including
standard reporting forms and/or web-based reporting mechanisms. For anonymous
reporting, the district may consider locked boxes located in areas of a school where
reports can be submitted without fear of being observed. A school administrator who
receives a report of harassment, intimidation, and bullying from a district employee,
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and fails to initiate or conduct an investigation, or who should have known of an
incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and fails to take sufficient action to
minimize or eliminate the harassment, intimidation, or bullying, may be subject to
disciplinary action.
F. Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Anti-Bullying Specialist, and School Safety Team(s)
1. The Superintendent shall appoint a district Anti-Bullying Coordinator. The
Superintendent shall make every effort to appoint an employee of the school district to
this position.
The district Anti-Bullying Coordinator shall:
a. Be responsible for coordinating and strengthening the school district's policies to
prevent, identify, and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students;
b. Collaborate with school Anti-Bullying Specialists in the district, the Board of
Education, and the Superintendent to prevent, identify, and respond to harassment,
intimidation, or bullying of students in the district;
c. Provide data, in collaboration with the Superintendent, to the Department of
Education regarding harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students;
d. Execute such other duties related to school harassment, intimidation, or bullying as
requested by the Superintendent; and
e. Meet at least twice a school year with the school Anti- Bullying Specialist(s) to
discuss and strengthen procedures and policies to prevent, identify, and address
harassment, intimidation, and bullying in the district.
2. The Principal in each school shall appoint a school Anti-Bullying Specialist. The
Anti-Bullying Specialist shall be a guidance counselor, school psychologist, or other
certified staff member trained to be the Anti-Bullying Specialist from among the
currently employed staff in the school.
The school Anti-Bullying Specialist shall:
a. Chair the School Safety Team as provided in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21;
b. Lead the investigation of incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in the
school; and
c. Act as the primary school official responsible for preventing, identifying, and
addressing incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in the school.
3. A School Safety Team shall be formed in each school in the district to develop,
foster, and maintain a positive school climate by focusing on the on-going systemic
operational procedures and educational practices in the school, and to address issues
such as harassment, intimidation, or bullying that affect school climate and culture.
Each School Safety Team shall meet, at a minimum, two times per school year. The
School Safety Team shall consist of the Principal or the Principal’s designee who, if
possible, shall be a senior administrator in the school and the following appointees of
the Principal: a teacher in the school; a school Anti-Bullying Specialist; a parent of a
student in the school; and other members to be determined by the Principal. The school
Anti-Bullying Specialist shall serve as the chair of the School Safety Team.
The School Safety Team shall:
a. Receive records of all complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students
that have been reported to the Principal;
b. Receive copies of all reports prepared after an investigation of an incident of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying;
c. Identify and address patterns of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students in
the school;
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d. Review and strengthen school climate and the policies of the school in order to
prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students;
e. Educate the community, including students, teachers, administrative staff, and
parents, to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students;
f. Participate in the training required pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13
et seq. and other training which the Principal or the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator
may request. The School Safety Team shall be provided professional development
opportunities that may address effective practices of successful school climate
programs or approaches; and
g Execute such other duties related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying as
requested by the Principal or district Anti-Bullying Coordinator.
Notwithstanding any provision of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21 to the contrary, a parent who is a
member of the School Safety Team shall not participate in the activities of the team set
forth in 3. a., b., or c. above or any other activities of the team which may compromise
the confidentiality of a student, consistent with, at a minimum, the requirements of the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. Section 1232 and 34 CFR Part
99), N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, Student Records and N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.9, Student Records.
G. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Investigation
The Board requires a thorough and complete investigation to be conducted for each
report of violations and complaints which either identify harassment, intimidation, or
bullying or describe behaviors that indicate harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The
investigation shall be initiated by the Principal or the Principal’s designee within one
school day of the verbal report of the incident. The investigation shall be conducted by
the school Anti-Bullying Specialist in coordination with the Principal. The Principal
may appoint additional personnel who are not school Anti-Bullying Specialists to assist
with the investigation.
The investigation shall be completed and the written findings submitted to the Principal
as soon as possible, but not later than ten school days from the date of the written report
of the incident. Should information regarding the reported incident and the
investigation be received after the end of the ten-day period, the school Anti-Bullying
Specialist shall amend the original report of the results of the investigation to ensure
there is an accurate and current record of the facts and activities concerning the
reported incident.
The Principal shall proceed in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct, as
appropriate, based on the investigation findings. The Principal shall submit the report to
the Superintendent within two school days of the completion of the investigation and in
accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act (N.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.). As
appropriate to the findings from the investigation, the Superintendent shall ensure the
Code of Student Conduct has been implemented and may decide to provide
intervention services, order counseling, establish training programs to reduce
harassment, intimidation, or bullying and enhance school climate, impose discipline, or
take or recommend other appropriate action, as necessary.
The Superintendent shall report the results of each investigation to the Board of
Education no later than the date of the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting
following the completion of the investigation. The Superintendent’s report shall include
information on any consequences imposed under the Code of Student Conduct, any
services provided, training established, or other action taken or recommended by the
Superintendent.
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Parents of involved student offenders and targets/victims shall be provided with
information about the investigation, in accordance with Federal and State law and
regulation. The information to be provided to parents shall include the nature of the
investigation, whether the district found evidence of harassment, intimidation, or
bullying, and whether consequences were imposed or services provided to address the
incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. This information shall be provided in
writing within five school days after the results of the investigation are reported to the
Board of Education.
A parent may request a hearing before the Board of Education after receiving the
information about the investigation. The hearing shall be held within ten school days of
the request. The Board of Education shall conduct the hearing in executive session,
pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A. 10:4-1 et seq.), to protect the
confidentiality of the students. At the hearing, the Board may hear testimony from and
consider information provided by the school Anti-Bullying Specialist and others, as
appropriate, regarding the incident, the findings from the investigation of the incident,
recommendations for consequences or services, and any programs instituted to reduce
such incidents, prior to rendering a determination.
At the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting following its receipt of the
Superintendent’s report on the results of the investigations to the Board or following a
hearing in executive session, the Board shall issue a decision, in writing, to affirm,
reject, or modify the Superintendent’s decision. The Board’s decision may be appealed
to the Commissioner of Education, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:3, Controversies
and Disputes, no later than ninety days after issuance of the Board of Education’s
decision.
A parent, student, or organization may file a complaint with the Division on Civil
Rights within one hundred eighty days of the occurrence of any incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying based on membership in a protected group as enumerated in
the "Law Against Discrimination," P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-1 et seq.).
H. Range of Responses to an Incident of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying
The Board shall establish a range of responses to harassment, intimidation, and
bullying incidents and the Principal and the Anti- Bullying Specialist shall
appropriately apply these responses once an incident of harassment, intimidation, or
bullying is confirmed. The Superintendent shall respond to confirmed harassment,
intimidation, and bullying, according to the parameters described in this Policy. The
range of ways in which school staff will respond shall include an appropriate
combination of counseling, support services, intervention services, and other programs.
The Board recognizes that some acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may be
isolated incidents requiring the school officials respond appropriately to the
individual(s) committing the acts. Other acts may be so serious or parts of a larger
pattern of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that they require a response either at the
classroom, school building, or school district level or by law enforcement officials.
For every incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the school officials must
respond appropriately to the individual who committed the act. The range of responses
to confirmed harassment, intimidation, or bullying acts should include individual,
classroom, school, or district responses, as appropriate to the findings from each
incident. Examples of responses that apply to each of these categories are provided
below:
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1. Individual responses can include consistent and appropriate positive behavioral
interventions (e.g., peer mentoring, short-term counseling, life skills groups) intended
to remediate the problem behaviors.
2. Classroom responses can include class discussions about an incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying, role plays (when implemented with sensitivity to a student’s
situation or involvement with harassment, intimidation, and bullying), research
projects, observing and discussing audio-visual materials on these subjects, and skill-
building lessons in courtesy, tolerance, assertiveness, and conflict management.
3. School responses can include theme days, learning station programs, “acts of
kindness” programs or awards, use of student survey data to plan prevention and
intervention programs and activities, social norms campaigns, posters, public service
announcements, “natural helper” or peer leadership programs, “upstander” programs,
parent programs, the dissemination of information to students and parents explaining
acceptable uses of electronic and wireless communication devices, and harassment,
intimidation, and bullying prevention curricula or campaigns.
4. District-wide responses can comprise of adoption of school-wide programs,
including enhancing the school climate, involving the community in policy review and
development, providing professional development coordinating with community-based
organizations (e.g., mental health, health services, health facilities, law enforcement,
faith-based organizations), launching harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention
campaigns.
I. Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited
The Board prohibits a Board member, school employee, contracted service provider
who has contact with students, school volunteer, or student from engaging in reprisal,
retaliation, or false accusation against a victim, witness, or one with reliable
information, or any other person who has reliable information about an act of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying or who reports an act of harassment, intimidation,
or bullying. The consequence and appropriate remedial action for a person who
engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the administrator after
consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act, in accordance with
case law, Federal and State statutes and regulations, and district policies and
procedures. All suspected acts of reprisal or retaliation will be taken seriously and
appropriate responses will be made in accordance with the totality of the circumstances.
Examples of consequences and remedial measures for students who engage in reprisal
or retaliation are listed and described in the Consequences and Appropriate Remedial
Actions section of this Policy.
Examples of consequences for a school employee or a contracted service provider who
has contact with students who engage in reprisal or retaliation may include, but not be
limited to: verbal or written reprimand, increment withholding, legal action,
disciplinary action, termination, and/or bans from providing services, participating in
school district-sponsored programs, or being in school buildings or on school grounds.
Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in or out-of-school counseling,
professional development programs, and work environment modifications.
Examples of consequences for a Board member who engages in reprisal or retaliation
may include, but not be limited to: reprimand, legal action, and other action authorized
by statute or administrative code. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited
to: counseling and professional development.
J. Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Action for False Accusation
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The Board prohibits any person from falsely accusing another as a means of retaliation
or as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
1. Students - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student found to have
falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a
means of retaliation may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and
including suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq.,
Discipline of Students and as set forth in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2, Short-term Suspensions,
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7, Long-term Suspensions and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.5, Expulsions and
those listed and described in the Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions
section of this Policy.
2. School Employees - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school
employee or contracted service provider who has contact with students found to have
falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a
means of retaliation could entail discipline in accordance with district policies,
procedures, and agreements which may include, but not be limited to: reprimand,
suspension, increment withholding, termination, and/or bans from providing services,
participating in school district-sponsored programs, or being in school buildings or on
school grounds. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in or out-of-
school counseling, professional development programs, and work environment
modifications. 3. Visitors or Volunteers - Consequences and appropriate remedial
action for a visitor or volunteer found to have falsely accused another as a means of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a means of retaliation could be determined
by the school administrator after consideration of the nature, severity, and
circumstances of the act, including law enforcement reports or other legal actions,
removal of buildings or grounds privileges, or prohibiting contact with students or the
provision of student services. Remedial measures may include, but not be limited to: in
or out-of-school counseling, professional development programs, and work
environment modifications.
K. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Publication and Dissemination
This Policy will be disseminated annually by the Superintendent to all school
employees, contracted service providers who have contact with students, school
volunteers, students, and parents who have children enrolled in a school in the district,
along with a statement explaining the Policy applies to all acts of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 that occur on school
property, at school-sponsored functions, or on a school bus and, as appropriate, acts
that occur off school grounds.
The Superintendent shall ensure that notice of this Policy appears in the student
handbook and all other publications of the school district that set forth the
comprehensive rules, procedures, and standards for schools within the school district.
The Superintendent shall post a link to the district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and
Bullying Policy that is prominently displayed on the homepage of the school district’s
website. The district will notify students and parents this Harassment, Intimidation, and
Bullying Policy is available on the school district’s website.
The Superintendent shall post the name, school phone number, school address, and
school email address of the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator on the home page of the
school district’s website. Each Principal shall post the name, school phone number,
address, and school email address of both the Anti-Bullying Specialist and the district
Anti- Bullying Coordinator on the home page of each school’s website.
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L. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Training and Prevention Programs
The Superintendent and Principal(s) shall provide training on the school district’s
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy to current and new school employees;
including administrators, instructors, student support services, administrative/office
support, transportation, food service, facilities/maintenance; contracted service
providers; and volunteers who have significant contact with students; and persons
contracted by the district to provide services to students. The training shall include
instruction on preventing bullying on the basis of the protected categories enumerated
in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 and other distinguishing characteristics that may incite incidents
of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
Each public school teacher and educational services professional shall be required to
complete at least two hours of instruction in harassment, intimidation, and bullying
prevention within each five year professional development period as part of the
professional development requirement pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18:37-22.d. The required
two hours of suicide prevention instruction shall include information on the risk of
suicide and incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and information on
reducing the risk of suicide in students who are members of communities identified as
having members at high risk of suicide Each newly elected or appointed Board member
must complete, during the first year of the member’s first term, a training program on
harassment, intimidation, and bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A.
18A:12-33.
The school district shall provide time during the usual school schedule for the Anti-
Bullying Coordinator and each school Anti-Bullying Specialist to participate in
harassment, intimidation, and bullying training programs.
A school leader shall complete school leader training that shall include information on
the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying as required in N.J.S.A.
18A:26-8.2. The school district shall annually observe a “Week of Respect” beginning
with the first Monday in October. In order to recognize the importance of character
education, the school district will observe the week by providing age-appropriate
instruction focusing on the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying as
defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14. Throughout the school year the district will provide
ongoing age-appropriate instruction on preventing harassment, intimidation, or
bullying, in accordance with the Core Curriculum Content Standards, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-29.
The school district and each school in the district will annually establish, implement,
document, and assess harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention programs or
approaches, and other initiatives in consultation with school staff, students,
administrators, volunteers, parents, law enforcement, and community members. The
programs or approaches and other initiatives shall be designed to create school-wide
conditions to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying in accordance
with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-17 et seq.
M. Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Reevaluation, Reassessment and
Review
The Superintendent shall develop and implement a process for annually discussing the
school district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy with students.
The Superintendent and the Principal(s) shall annually conduct a reevaluation,
reassessment, and review of the Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy, with
input from the schools’ Anti-Bullying Specialists, and recommend revisions and
additions to the Policy as well as to harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention
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programs and approaches based on the findings from the evaluation, reassessment, and
review.
N. Reports to Board of Education and New Jersey Department of Education The
Superintendent shall report two times each school year, between September 1 and
January 1 and between January 1 and June 30 at a public hearing all acts of violence,
vandalism, and harassment, intimidation, and bullying which occurred during the
previous reporting period in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46.
The information shall also be reported to the New Jersey Department of Education in
accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46.
O. School and District Grading Requirements
Each school and each district shall receive a grade for the purpose of assessing their
efforts to implement policies and programs consistent with the provisions of N.J.S.A.
18:37-13 et seq. The grade received by a school and the district shall be posted on the
homepage of the school’s website and the district’s website in accordance with the
provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. A link to the report that was submitted by the
Superintendent to the Department of Education shall also be available on the school
district’s website. This information shall be posted on the websites within ten days of
receipt of the grade for each school and the district.
P. Reports to Law Enforcement
Some acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying may be bias-related acts and
potentially bias crimes and school officials must report to law enforcement officials
either serious acts or those which may be part of a larger pattern in accordance with the
provisions of the Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law
Enforcement Officials.
Q. Collective Bargaining Agreements and Individual Contracts
Nothing in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13.1 et seq. may be construed as affecting the provisions
of any collective bargaining agreement or individual contract of employment in effect
on the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act’s effective date (January 5, 2011). N.J.S.A.
18A:37-30. The Board of Education prohibits the employment of or contracting for
school staff positions with individuals whose criminal history record check reveals a
record of conviction for a crime of bias intimidation or conspiracy to commit or attempt
to commit a crime of bias intimidation.
R. Students with Disabilities
Nothing contained in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13.1 et seq. may alter or reduce the rights of a
student with a disability with regard to disciplinary actions or to general or special
education services and supports. N.J.S.A. 18A:37-32.
The school district shall submit all subsequent amended Harassment, Intimidation, and
Bullying Policies to the Executive County Superintendent of Schools within thirty days
of Board adoption.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 through 18A:37-32
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1 et seq.; 6A:16-7.9 et seq.
Model Policy and Guidance for Prohibiting Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying on
School Property, at School-Sponsored Functions and on School Buses – April 2011 –
New Jersey Department of Education
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Memorandum – New Jersey Commissioner of Education – Guidance for Schools on
Implementing the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act – December 16, 2011
Revised: 16 October 2007, 29 April 2008, 26 August 2008, 16 September 2008, 05
May 2009, 16 March 2010, 23 August 2011, 18 October 2011, 26 November 2013
This policy was formerly 5512.1. Policy Alert 193 called for a mandated revision, renumbering to 5512. Also, PA193 called for the abolishment of 5512.02 and the old 5512 - Hazing, as both are included in the new 5512.
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APPENDIX D
New Jersey Statute18A:38-27- TRUANCY
Truancy as defined by New Jersey Statute 18A:38-27:
Any child between the ages of 6 and 16 years who shall repeatedly be absent from
school, and any child of such age found away from school during school hours
whose parent, guardian or other person having charge and control of the child is
unable to cause him to attend school and any pupil who is incorrigible, actually
vagrant, vicious, or immoral in conduct, shall, be deemed to be a juvenile
delinquent and shall be proceeded against as such.
It is the responsibility of every parent/guardian to have his/her child attend school
regularly. Repeated truancies may result in the school contacting the Division of Youth
and Family Services (DYFS) for investigation and possible action.
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APPENDIX E
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APPENDIX F
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