High School Handbook
If you are interested in viewing the actual Student Handbook Grades 9-12 document we encourage you to do so by clicking this link:
Student Handbook Grades 9-12
- 2024 - 2025 Points of Emphasis
- Mission Statement
- Philosophy Statement
- Message from the Principal
- High School Staff
- Academic
- BOCES
- Emergency Drills
- Extracurricular
- General Information
- Health Services
- Student Attendance
- Student Transportation
- Technology Use Agreement
2024 - 2025 Points of Emphasis
Cell Phones: Cell phones, pagers and personal audio equipment are not to be used in the instructional setting (Classrooms/Library/Study Hall) unless expressly requested by a teacher for educational purposes. This includes, but not limited to, taking pictures, video and/or audio recordings. If necessary to be brought to school, these items should not be used nor visible except during non-instructional periods during the day (Hallways/Cafeteria) upon entering the building until 3:20 PM. Use of cell phones is strictly prohibited in the bathrooms, locker rooms, and auditorium at all times. This equipment is prohibited while serving after school detention. The school district is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Personal Audio Equipment: Items which are disruptive to the educational process such as: any personal audio equipment, walkman, headsets, iPods, MP3's, hand held video games, cell phones, etc. should not be in use or if applicable worn in an instructional setting (Classrooms/Library/Study Hall) unless expressly requested by a teacher for educational purposes. Personal audio equipment with headphones may be used on the bus and in hallways but for safety reasons earbuds worn in the hallways must be worn with one earbud in and one earbud out.
Open Beverage Containers: Open, non-resealable containers or any glass containers are not permissible during the instructional day. Resealable non-glass containers are acceptable in the classrooms with teacher permission only. The juice machine in the vending area is available for student use after 3:20 PM. Under no circumstances are students to use the beverage machines in the teachers' lounge. Energy drinks are prohibited throughout the school day.
Student Dress Code: We take pride in the appearance of our students. Your dress reflects respect for yourself and your school. School clothing should be appropriate as to time, place and weather.
- Half Shirts and see-through tops should not be worn in school and undergarments should not be visible.
- Hats may be worn throughout the day. It is up to a teacher's discretion on the wearing of hats in their individual classroom. Hoods may not be worn in the school building from the start of the school day (first bell) to 3:20 PM.
- Shorts, skorts, and skirts should be a minimum of fingertip length when the arms are down at the side.
Dances: School dances are open only to Letchworth students (Eligibility Policy applies) and their guests. Students wishing to bring a guest must complete a guest authorization release form and return it to the building principal at least 2 days prior to the dance. A guest must be presently enrolled in a high school or the guest can be an LCS graduate under 21 years old. All regular school rules are in effect at dances. Once a student leaves the dance he/she will not be readmitted.
Diploma/Credential Requirements: To keep paces with the changing diploma/credential requirements, a link has been provided to the NYS Department of Education website that reflects the current requirements for all students. NYS Diploma Requirements
Personal Property: Far safety and for student property protection bookbags, bags or any personal belongings may not be left unattended in the hallways. If found by staff, items will be picked up and brought to the main office. It is recommended for these items to be locked in each student assigned school locker, however, it will be teacher discretion to allow a student to have their bookbag, bag, or any personal belongings in a classroom. The school district is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Mission Statement
THE MISSION OF LETCHWORTH CENTRAL SCHOOL IS TO PREPARE EACH STUDENT FOR THE CHALLENGES OF HIS OR HER OWN DISTINCT FUTURE IN A DEMOCRATIC, PLURALISTIC SOCIETY. EACH PUPIL WILL ACQUIRE THE LIFE SKILLS, MORAL VALUES AND INFORMATION PROCESSING CAPABILITIES TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL, FULFILLED ADULTS. THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY WILL DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN HIGH STAFF AND STUDENT MORALE AND ENCOURAGE THE LOVE FOR LEARNING AS A LIFELONG PROCESS. THIS IS BEST ACHIEVED BY BRINGING THE WORLD TO OUR STUDENTS THROUGH THE COOPERATIVE EFFORT AND COMMON GOALS OF STAFF, STUDENTS AND COMMUNITY.
Philosophy Statement
Message from the Principal
August 2023
Dear Students and Parents,
Welcome! Once again the excitement of beginning a new school year is upon us. Isn't it great how all the possibilities that lie before us inspire us? Our staff looks forward to working with you as we endeavor to make the 2023 - 2024 school year a successful, rewarding one for all of our students.
We especially want you, our students, to know that we fully expect that you will continue to grow in learning, in your ability and willingness to assume responsibility, in becoming true friends with your classmates. Your teachers, staff and administrators are here to help you. Obviously, we look to your parents/guardians for their support in our efforts. Together we can achieve our goals!
Please take a moment to read through this handbook to become familiar with school procedures and other pertinent information. Also, please note that this handbook is available on our school website for your reference.
Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I look forward to work with all of you!
Sincerely,
Paul Rogers
High School Principal
High School Staff
Marica Austen (Special Education)
Carrie Bartholomew (Spanish)
Ellen Berg (English)
Samantha Bickford (Math)
Suzanne Blackburn (Science)
Kara Bonn (English)
Chad DeRock (Social Studies)
Kaylee Dumas (Math)
David Dunbar (Special Education)
Addie Edwards (Gym)
Adam Giardino (Technology)
Michael Grasso (Social Studies)
Ryan Hart (Social Studies)
Brian Harvey (Math)
Shannon Herr (English)
Forrest Hess (Technology)
Adam Higgins (Phys. Ed)
Marcy Holderer (Spec. Ed.)
Ana Hubbard (Music)
Lauren Hurlburt (French)
John Mertsock (English)
Laura Metzler (Social Studies)
Gregory Minton (Math)
Marsha Mistretta (Science)
Jamie Osborne (Biology)
Meggan Quartz (Math)
Jeffrey Radzyminski (Science)
Barbara Raymond (Music)
Miranda Richert (Spanish)
Taylor Robb (Family & Consumer Sciences)
Sarah Roberts (French/Spanish)
Tom Rycroft (Science)
Megan Shearing (Science)
Andrew Speed (Special Education)
Sarah Staskiewicz (Reading)
Heidi Stroud (School Psychologist)
Brooke Tisdale (Art)
Rachel Towsley (Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher)
Kayla Vossler-Lewis (School Counselor)
Kelly Wilcox (Science/Ag.)
Megan Wilson (Phys Ed)
Chad Wittenrich (Phys. Ed)
Leah Wooster (Technology)
Academic
As a result of the Higher Standards initiative, the New York State Education Department has mandated school district to provide Academic Intervention Services in order for all students to meet and exceed higher academic expectations Therefore, the following intervention services will be in place for the school year.
A. Extensive Writing Labs: Thirty-nine minutes duration
Curriculum developed by grades 9-12 staff
Students scheduled via state test results and teacher recommendation.
B. Extensive Mathematics Labs: Thirty-nine minutes duration
Curriculum developed by grades 9-12 staff
Students scheduled via state test results and teacher recommendation.
C. Academic Intervention Service in the Learning Center:
Professional staff members (teacher and teacher assistants) will be scheduled as tutors in the Learning Center.
Students scheduled via state test results and teacher recommendation.
*Students may exit the program by demonstrating an achievement level of 80% or above on report cards or State Examinations.
In calculating final averages for all courses, four-fifths of the final average will be derived from quarter grades, and on-fifth of the final average derived from the local final exam. Regents exams will not impact credit for the course but contributes to the state graduation requirement. Local credit will not e granted unless the average is passing. In calculating a final grade for a repeated subject, the highest grade from each quarter will be averaged with the highest final exam score. If the course does not have a local final exam, the final average will be derived from the four quarter grades.
Unweighted grades will not exceed 100.
Freshman - Completion of 8th Grade
Sophomore - Completion of a total of 4 units.
Junior - Completion of a total of 9 units.
Senior - Completion of a minimum of 13 1/2 units and/or whose program includes the necessary units and courses for graduation, and who has passed appropriate Regents and/or RCT examinations.
New York State offers several different diploma/credential types currently for general education students and student with disabilities with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 Accommodation Plan.
The chart provided on NYS Diploma Requirements is intended to show an overview of the requirements and identify the student population that have access to each type of diploma and non-diploma exiting credential.
Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Letchworth School Counseling Office at 585-492-3530.
Acceleration
In order to maintain the academic integrity of Letchworth Central School, the administration and staff are not in favor of doubling courses for the purpose of acceleration except under extraordinary and unusual circumstances.
Any Student permitted to double in accelerated situation will come under the following stipulations:
- The administration is committed to allowing "doubling" in one academic area only (in most cases). Students will not be permitted to "double" in both social studies and English. (Senior students with a chance to graduate may request an exception to this procedure by contacting the building principal.) A student must pass both the 1st and 2nd quarters of each course to continue in the "double" set-up. Students may be dropped to lower level courses if they do not pass the 1st and 2nd quarters of both courses. If the student maintains a passing average in the course (after 20 weeks) they will remain in the "double" set up.
- In the event of a student who has met all academic criteria to date and wishes to challenge courses for early graduation, the district will provide a comprehensive project option that, if passed with mastery, would allow the student to take the Regents exam a year early. This option is valid for English 11 and U.S. History & Government. In order to receive credit for the courses being challenged, the student must earn an 85% or better on both the comprehensive project and the corresponding Regents exam.
- Early graduates shall be eligible for class rank without displacing the current class member standing. (For example, there may be two valedictorians, two salutatorians or two of any other class rankings).
Repeat Basis
- Students are strongly urged and expected to attend summer school when failing a class at Letchworth Central School.
- The administration is committed to allowing "doubling" in one academic area only (in most cases). Students will not be permitted to "double" in both Social Studies and English. (Senior students with a chance to graduate may request an exception to the procedure by contacting the building principal.)
- Students repeating a subject may try a final examination in that subject after one semester of work if they have previously passed two or more quarters of the course. In order to maintain academic integrity, an attempt will be made to schedule the student into the appropriate semester (based on semester failed).
- A student must obtain a passing average in the 1st and 2nd quarters of each course to continue in the "double" set-up. If the student maintains a passing average in the course (after 20 weeks) they will remain in the "double" set up.
- If a student has a failing average in the repeated subject, the higher level course must be dropped immediately.
- If a student has a failing average in the higher level course, that course must be dropped immediately.
- In calculating a final grade for a repeated subject, the highest grade from each quarter will be averaged with the highest final exam score.
Driver Education is a credit bearing course offered as a BOCES program during the school year and as a summer school course. This will be reflected on a student's transcript.
When a course is oversubscribed, the following procedure will be utilized to select students:
- Students who sign up for a driver education will be selected by class (i.e. Seniors, followed by Juniors...) and date of birth within the class.
The schedules have been set up to accommodate class size and promote a positive learning environment where all attempt was made to get students their requested courses. To maintain the integrity of our academic programs, students must attend and complete the course(s) for which they were originally scheduled and/or which they have been assigned.
Students and parent(s)/guardian(s) are advised that they should carefully consider these issues at course selection time and that selection of courses at the time represents a firm commitment to scheduling decisions.
Counselors are independently authorized only to make changes involving errors, voids or additions to a student's schedule. Other questions regarding this policy should be addressed in the following manner:
- The student informs his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) that they may call the student's counselor.
- The counselor sets up an appointment with parent(s)/guardian(s), student, counselor and teacher to review the request. Prior to the conference, the counselor is expected to reinforce Letchworth Central School's policy regarding high expectations for all students with all those concerned.
- If it is apparent that a change is called for, the counselor is to review the matter with the High School Principal. If that change is approved, the counselor will notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) and inform them that they may call the High School Principal to schedule a conference with the counselor, teacher, administrator and student if they wish to pursue the matter.
All students completing course requirements are expected to be in attendance during final exams. In the event of a medical emergency (i.e. hospitalization, severe sickness, etc.) a doctor's verification of sickness will be required in order for the final exam to be administered at a later date. Students who have been denied credit under the LCS Attendance Policy are still allowed to sit for Regents examinations but will not receive credit for the course. Regents exams are only administered on the date set by New York State (there are no make-up dates).
Grade weighting for college level/AP courses taught by Letchworth Central School staff will be as follows:
- Semester courses carrying 3 or 4 credits will be weighted at 1.08.
-
Full year courses carrying 3 or 4 credits will be weighted at 1.04.
College level courses taught by other than Letchworth Central School staff (BOCES Academics, online course, etc. will not be weighted)
- Regents level courses in chemistry, physics, and algebra/trigonometry, when taken as a third or fourth credit in the content area will be weighted at 1.06.
Grade weighting will be reflected in the student's high school transcript.
- A student becomes eligible for home tutoring on the date the school principal receives notification from a medical doctor of the need for home tutoring. The notification must be completed on a doctor's letterhead or medical/prescription pad. The notification should include a beginning and ending date of service and must be updated on a monthly basis.
- It is the responsibility of the principal, in cooperation with the teachers of the pupil, to determine what level of home tutoring is required for the student. The school recognizes that some pupils will need more than the state mandated minimum of 3 hours of tutoring per day.
- Every effort should be made to hire tutors that are certified in the subject area to be taught.
- It is the responsibility of the tutor to insure that all tasks assigned by the regular teacher are completed.
- All tasks required that cannot be completed at home (science lab, fine arts projects, physical education activities, etc) must be completed upon return to school within a period determined to be appropriate by the regular teachers.
- All exams must be taken in the presence of the regular teacher in order to demonstrate content proficiency. The student may come to school for those examinations while being home tutored or take all of the tests on return to school. The school principal may make exceptions to the above (in extraordinary circumstances).
- A final exam will be given at the end of the course. The difficulty level of the final will be equivalent to that of the most recent final administered in the course.
- It is the responsibility of the regular teacher to assign grades for the tutoring period and to determine whether the student will be awarded credit for the course.
*Students being tutored are not eligible to participate in extracurricular activities (athletics, clubs, dances, trips, etc.).
Credit bearing courses will be averaged to determine honor roll status as follows:
| Honor | 84.5 - 89.499 |
| High Honor | 89.5 - 94.499 |
| Highest Honor | 94.5 - 100 |
Names of honor roll students will be displayed every ten weeks on the bulletin board near the high school office.
Students may come to the Media Center with a pass from study hall for the entire period. All students are expected to bring enough work or study materials to last at least three quarters of the period. Students may come and do research, homework, check out materials or just relax and read. Those students failing two or more classes may be asked for a pre-signed pass from a classroom teacher to work on a specific assignment from that teacher. The number of students that can come from any study hall may be limited if there are multiple study halls or a class is using the Media Center during any given time.
Media Center Website
The Media Center's web page is designed to provide easy access to the school's eBooks, audio eBooks, databases, Page Turner information, titles recommended by the American Library Association, citation assistance and other resources. Our website is a great way to see what is new in the Media Center. Go to https://www.letchworth.k12.ny.us/ click on Departments, then Media Centers or simply click here to be redirected.
Interlibrary Loan
The Media Center can request materials from other local school libraries for student use. Allow a few weeks when requesting materials through interlibrary loan. Please visit the library to arrange an Interlibrary Loan transaction. All students are financially responsible for any Interlibrary Loan books checked out under their name that are not returned.
Checking Out Books
5th and 6th grade students may check out 4 print books for a period of 2 weeks
7th - 12th grade students have no limit to how many books they may check out for a period of 2 weeks, and 5th-12th grade students may check out 4 eBooks for a loan period of 2 weeks
Books may be renewed up to 2 additional times if more time is needed. Please return your books on time as there are others waiting for them. Students with books that more than a month overdue may at the discretion of the library staff may be limited to one book are a specific class assignment or may have their library books held until they return the late books or pay for replacement of the material. All students are financially responsible for any unreturned library books checked out under their name.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY SELECTION PROCEDURES
Membership is based on scholarship, character, service, leadership, and citizenship. All students (10-12) with a cumulative average of 90% or better, who are enrolled in a New York State Regents curriculum or the equivalent standard of excellence may be considered for membership by the Faculty Council. The Faculty Council reserves the right to award honorary membership to students. The Letchworth Senior National Honor Society does not discriminate in its selection of members on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age. Induction of new members will take place in the spring of each school year.
- At the 20 week mark of a school year, membership in National Honor Society shall be open to members of the sophomore and junior classes who have earned a cumulative weighted grade point average of 90.0 or better. Members of NHS must also excel in the areas of leadership, character and service.
- At the 20 week mark, a list of all sophomores and juniors maintaining at least a 90.0 weighted cumulative grade point average will be compiled. These students will be notified that they are eligible for consideration for membership in the National Honor Society by letter.
- In order to receive further consideration, a student must complete and return a letter of intent signed by student and parent, a student activities form, and 2 letters of recommendation in the areas of service and leadership to the NHS faculty advisor by the deadline set by the adviser. These letters of recommendation many not be completed by a member of the candidate's family.
- The faculty will be asked to rate students in regard to leadership and character. This rating will be returned to the adviser and shared with the Faculty Council when they make their selection of candidates.
- Candidates receiving a majority vote of the Faculty Council shall be notified with a letter, invited to a welcome meeting, and inducted into the chapter.
- Candidates who do receive a majority vote shall be notified by letter.
* The principal will select the Faculty Council annually. This five-member council will be comprised of representatives from different academic areas. The principal will strive to appoint council members who teach a range of student groups, who are full-time teachers and who have been in the system for at least three years. Membership of the Faculty Council is confidential. It is the charge of the Faculty Council to speak for the faculty as a unified body and not simple to reflect personal bias about candidates. Teacher input is provided to the Faculty Council to acquaint them with the students' strengths and weaknesses.
- Students must wear appropriate physical education attire and footwear.
- Medical Excuses: By law, a student may be excused from physical education for no more than one day by a parental excuse. Parents must contact the school nurse concerning this. The school nurse may extend the parent's one day excuse if appropriate. If a student is to be excused from physical education for more than one day, a written excuse (with release date) is required from a physician.
- Students with medical excuses are not exempted from physical education class. These students will be given alternative study related to physical education.
- Adaptive Physical Education: The physical education instructor will assign the student's activities based upon the physician's recommendation.
- Physical education grades will be calculated into the student's overall grade point average (GPA).
The Senior Class "Top Ten" ranking (including the Valedictorian and Salutatorian) shall be determined by ranking all members of the class eligible for a Local, Regents or Advanced Regents Diploma. Early graduates shall be eligible for class rank in the same manner as described above and may share in the graduating class rank without displacing the current class members' standings. (For example, there may be two Valedictorians, two Salutatorians or two of any other class rankings). During the senior year, the Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be chosen by computing averages at the end of the thirty-week period. All ranked students must be in attendance at L.C.S for 4 quarters of the junior year and 3 quarters of the senior year.
Ten week report cards and five week interim reports will be sent home with the students on the following dates unless otherwise noted:
| 5 Week |
Friday, October 12, 2023 |
| 10 Week | Friday, November 17, 2023 |
| 15 Week | Friday, January 5, 2024 |
| 20 Week | Friday, February 2, 2024 |
| 25 Week | Thursday, March 7, 2024 |
| 30 Week | Friday, April 19, 2024 |
| 35 Week | Friday, May 24, 2024 |
| 40 Week | Reports will be mailed home |
The completion of an acceptable research paper is a requirement for all seniors.
Students are encouraged to attend Summer School to complete courses not passed.
Guidelines for entry into Summer School include:
- Students must achieve a minimum of 50% average in the course to enroll in Summer School.
- Students must complete the course during the regular school year.
- If #1 and #2 in the procedure are not met, a teacher, student or parent may request the building principal to review a possible extraordinary circumstance in order for entrance into the summer school program.
- In calculating a final grade the following with be in effect:
- 2 best quarters from the regular school year will be averaged along with the final average from Summer School twice. Also, the best final exam (school year or summer school) will be calculated at 1/5 of the grade.
- Example:
61 - School Year 62 - School Year 73 - Summer School 73 - Summer School 70 - Final Exam 68 - Final Grade
- Example:
- If a student has a grade of 65 or above in summer school, but obtains less than a 65 average as calculated above, the student will obtain a final grade of 65 and obtain course credit.
Students at Letchworth Central School are encouraged and expected to attend summer school when failing academic classes. However, summer tutoring may be approved by the high school principal on a case by case basis and subject to the following guidelines:
- The tutor must be a certified teacher approved by the high school principal. At the high school level, the teacher is to be certified in the subject area in which the student is tutored.
- The student must receive equivalent hours of instruction as provided in summer school (generally 45 hours of instruction).
- A final exam must be given at the end of each course. The final exam will be equivalent to the most recent final in this subject area. The curriculum coordinator for this subject will review and approve the exam.
- Tutor's record of attendance, lesson plans, grade book and final exams must be handed in to the Guidance Office.
- The tutorial program of study must be provided in writing and be approved by the building principal prior to the beginning of the tutoring program,
Every effort will be made to schedule grade 9-12 students into 6 classes plus physical education as a minimum class load. The building principal will determine any exceptions to this policy. All half-day BOCES students must enroll in a minimum of two classes plus physical education.
The procedure for withdrawal or transferring is:
- Secure authorization for withdrawal or transfer from your parent or guardian.
- Obtain the appropriate forms from the Counseling Office.
- Have the forms completed by your teachers, return all school/library books and property, and pay all fees and charges.
- Return the completed forms to the Counseling Office for final clearance, complete the exit survey, and receive your transfer card.
The administration feels strongly that students should be in attendance at Letchworth Central School for full time instruction. However, seniors who are in good academic standing may be permitted work release under the following conditions:
- Senior students who need to be released for work must be enrolled in a minimum of five classes plus physical education.
- A passing average must be maintained in all classes.
- Written verification of employment (by employer) must be presented at the beginning of each ten week marking period.
- Written parental permission for work release as well as written approval of the high school principal must be obtained.
- Each work release situation will be individually evaluated with extenuating circumstances taken into consideration.
- The high school principal has the ultimate authority in deciding the work release status of all seniors.
- Students participating in interscholastic sports are not eligible for early release.
BOCES
BOCES
Each year, the Letchworth Central School District offers career and technical education programs at the Letchworth Senior High School. These programs are designed to prepare youth for a broad range of employment and training services and are offered under the guidance of certified teachers, counselors, and training services and are offered under the guidance of certified teachers, counselors, and cooperative education coordinators. The following is a list of programs being offered this year:
| Animal Science |
| Auto Body |
| Automotive Technology |
| Building Trades |
| Career Assessment Program |
| Computer Information Systems |
| Conservation and Heavy Equipment |
| Cosmetology |
| Criminal Justice |
| Culinary Arts |
| Diesel |
| Health Careers Academy |
| Health Dimensions |
| Human Services |
| Metal Trades |
| Sports Science Academy |
BOCES PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
- Vocational Programs
- Requirement for attending BOCES at Mount Morris:
- Classified as a junior (9 units)
- Successful completion of 9th and 10th grade English, Social Studies, and 2 units of Science
- Satisfactory attendance record.
- Under special conditions school officials may authorize attendance at the vocational school without compliance to all of the above requirements.
- Students are expected to wear appropriate attire to the Vocational School
- Requirement for attending BOCES at Mount Morris:
- Academy Programs
- Students must have a minimum 85 overall average for their high school career at the time of application.
- Students have passed all Regents exams attempted with a minimum score of 75.
- Students must display excellent school attendance (i.e. 90% minimum attendance rate).
- For all prerequisite courses (i.e. chemistry - Health Careers Academy) all participants must earn an 85 average.
BOCES STUDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY
Letchworth Central School believes that excellent attendance in school correlates to high academic achievement. Therefore, vocational education students are expected to attend classes on a regular basis as follows:
- Students are expected to maintain a minimum of 87% attendance.
- Attendance will be reviewed at the conclusion of each month.
- Students falling below the 87% attendance requirement, the following will be in order:
A. The high school counselor will meet with the student to review our attendance expectations. Parents will be called by the counselor. A written notice of the meeting will be kept on file and mailed to the parents.
B. On the second notice of attendance concern the principal will meet with the student to review our attendance expectations. Parents will be called by the counselor. A written notice of the meeting will be kept on file and mailed to parents.
C. On the third notice of attendance concerns, the student will be dropped from the vocational program and re-enrolled in the regular education program at Letchworth Central School.
D. In the event of a pattern of student absence at anytime from BOCES, the principal may waive the second and third notice, which may result in the student being immediately dropped from the BOCES program.
E. In the event Letchworth School is closed (such as conference days for teachers) and BOCES being open, BOCES students are expected to attend their vocational program.
DRIVING TO BOCES
All students are expected to follow the general school policy pertaining to bus transportation to and from the BOCES center. However, students wishing to drive to the BOCES Center may under the following conditions:
- A note from a parent/guardian requesting the student drive to BOCES with reason specified.
- Obtain and complete (with signatures) a "Driving Permit Request Form" from Genesee Valley BOCES.
- NO other passengers should ride with the student driver.
- Inform your bus driver.
- Report to the BOCES Center Office with the form.
- No student will be able to drive without completing steps #1 - 5 above.
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION ANNUAL PUBLIC NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION
All career and technical education program follow the district's policies of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex and disability in all programs, services, activities, and employment. In addition, arrangements can be made to ensure that the lack of English language proficiency is not a barrier to admission or participation. to obtain this information in another language, call (585) 493-2571.
For general information about these programs, contact:
Mr. Paul Rogers
High School Principal
Letchworth Central School District
5550 School Road
Gainesville, NY 14066
(585) 493-2571
Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be directed to:
Mr. Paul Rogers
High School Principal/Title IX Coordinator
Letchworth Central School District
5550 School Road
Gainesville, NY 14066
(585) 493-2571
Emergency Drills
EMERGENCY DRILLS
CARBON MONOXIDE PROCEDURE:
For the safety of students and staff, carbon monoxide detectors have been installed in areas of the school where carbon monoxide may be present. Safety is the number one priority when dealing with carbon monoxide incidents. If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds in a classroom, the administration, teacher or adults in charge will lead the evacuation of the room, area or building as per the carbon monoxide rubric procedure. If an alarm sounds in any area where no adult is present (i.e. hallway) students are directed to immediately evacuate the area of the alarm and notify an adult.
FIRE ALARM:
When the fire alarm sounds, follow the directions of the teacher in charge and the directional signs placed in each room. You should take each emergency drill seriously and:
- Walk quietly and quickly to the exit designated for your room.
- Move at least 100 feet away from the building to the far side of the driveway.
- Remain quiet so special announcements may be heard.
- Return promptly to class when signaled by a school official which indicates the conclusion of the drill.
- Remain with your teacher in order for attendance to be taken (as teachers are responsible for your whereabouts).
In case of fire:
- Call the office on the telephone (493-2571 or ext. 5117)
- Set off the hall alarm box.
- Exit the building as above.
Extracurricular
EXTRACURRICULAR:
PARTICIPATION IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:
Letchworth Central School considers extra-curricular activities to be those activities carried on outside the curriculum or regular course of study in school. In order to participate in an extracurricular activity the student must be in attendance prior to 8:45 a.m. and remain for the entire day.
To practice or participate in an activity on a weekend, the student must be in attendance prior to 8:45 a.m. on Friday and remain for the entire day. Absences for part of the day for legal appointments are acceptable. Students will be required to provide a note from their physician when out of school for a medical appointment. The building principal will have the final decision relative to possible emergency situations.
Students may not participate in any extracurricular activities or practices during the term of an in-school suspension or out-of-school suspension.
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY:
Letchworth High School recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities in developing a well-rounded student. However, at Letchworth Central School, academic success is our first priority. Therefore, the following procedures will be in effect for all 9-12 students:
- Extracurricular activities include (but are not limited to) interscholastic athletics*, school clubs and organizations, school social events such as dances, proms, senior trips and concerts.
- The performance of all students will be monitored by the administration, guidance counselors, faculty, coaches, and activity/club advisors. This group effort is to help the student having academic difficulties.
- Faculty, coaches, and activity/club advisors will communicate with each other on a routine basis regarding student performance and academic progress.
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Students failing or struggling in any subjects will be expected to receive academic support in the following way:
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Receive Academic Intervention Services during the school day or before and/or after school.
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If a faculty member, coach, or activity/club advisor believes that the student is not meeting his/her obligations or making adequate academic progress, this should be brought to the attention of the building principal for appropriate action, up to and including suspension from extracurricular activities.
*Interscholastic athletics academic eligibility procedure is described in the Athletic Training Regulations.
ATHLETICS:
We, at Letchworth, are very proud of our athletic program. Our program has expanded to the point that we offer forty (40) separate athletic teams for student participation. We also have facilities that are unsurpassed by most of the schools in our area. Over the years, our athletes, coaches and fans have earned the reputation of being good sports as well as good citizens. We have been commended my times by being recipients of "good sportsmanship" awards.
Awards of such caliber come from a positive, consistent approach to behavior expectations and discipline. We would like to inform you of the "Training Regulations" which govern student behavior and outline expectations of our athletes.
We thank you for your continued support and interest in our athletic program
Tyler King
Director of Athletics
ATHLETIC TRAINING REGULATIONS:
It should be recognized that involvement in interscholastic athletics is a privilege. Athletes are expected to conform to the standards of the District's Code of Conduct and to demonstrate appropriate behavior that reflects positively on their school and community, in or out of school as well as in or out of sports seasons. Misconduct may result in disciplinary action or suspension from the athletic program.
Letchworth 7-12 Academic Eligibility for Interscholastic Athletes:
All students are encouraged to participate in interscholastic athletic program.
Interscholastic athletics shall be defined as those activities where competition occurs between other participating schools in Section V, for which no separate an distinct academic credit is given.
To be eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics, an individual should display qualities, which demonstrate that he/she is "a student in good standing."
- Passing all but one of scheduled classes
- Or consistently meeting all work habits for classes in which they are failing.
Academic Eligibility Procedures
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Grades will be checked at each midpoint and endpoint of the marking period.
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At each midpoint or endpoint of the marking period, students who are participating in athletics and failing more that one course will be placed into an academic intervention program. This program will require such student(s) to attend a mandatory academic support class on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:00am to 8:30am.
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District transportation will be provided for any student requiring this academic service.
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Students who fail to attend the morning academic support class will not be able to participate in the practice or contest scheduled for that day.
3. Students who are placed in the academic intervention program and who can document they are passing all courses will be removed from the required academic intervention program. *This will be determined by the principal and/or athletic director.
4. If at the close of the next midpoint or endpoint of the marking period, a student is still failing more than class and not consistently meeting all of the Learning Skills and Work Habits, then the student will become ineligible to participate in interscholastic activities effective immediately.
5. Ineligible students will be required to attend 40 minutes of tutoring services after the school day in addition to the morning academic intervention program. They may practice after their 40 minutes of required tutoring, but they may not compete in games, contests, meets, etc.
6. An ineligible student may prove, at any time, that he/she is meeting eligibility requirements through appropriate documentation. *The determination to change the eligibility status of a student can only be made by the principal and/or athletic director.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR ALCOHOL, DRUG, AND TOBACCO USE
Any athlete using or in possession of cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or other illegal chemicals using or possessing a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe, electronic cigarette ("e-cigarette" or "e-cig") or similar devices including but not limited to e-hookahs, hookah pens and vape pens; or using chewing or smokeless tobacco, including dip, chew, and/or snuff, in any form and all other tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or other illegal chemicals or substances listed in the District's Code of Conduct off school grounds, in any school buildings, on school grounds, or in any vehicle used to transport children or personnel in accordance with the Letchworth Central School Code of Conduct is subject to consequences under the following procedure:
A. First Offense (within one calendar year of the date of the offense):
Athlete will be permitted to resume practice with the team, under the following conditions:
- The athlete will agree to substance abuse screening and counseling (if indicated to be appropriate) by either the family physician or an alternative agency acceptable to the appropriate building principal. Letchworth Central School will not be responsible for any fees associated with screening or counseling.
- Athletes will not be permitted to return to practice until screening is scheduled.
- Once the substance abuse screening is scheduled, the following will be imposed:
- For sports with 10 or fewer regular season scheduled contests, the athlete will serve a 2 contest suspension.
- For sports with 11-14 regular season scheduled contests, the athlete will serve a 3 contest suspension.
- For sports with 15 or more regular season scheduled contests, the athlete will serve a 4 contest suspension.
- Athletes with a first offense who not agree to screening and participation in counseling (if indicated to be appropriate) will be subject to a one calendar year suspension from the date of the offense.
- Contest suspensions will carry over to the next sport in which the athlete participates within on calendar year.
B. Second Offense (within one calendar year of the date of the 1st offense):
Athlete will be permitted to resume practice with the team under the following conditions:
- The athlete will agree to substance abuse screening and participation in counseling (if indicated to be appropriate) by either the family physician or an alternative agency acceptable to the appropriate building principal. Letchworth Central School will not be responsible for any fees associated with screening or counseling.
- Athletes will not be permitted to return to practice until screening is scheduled.
- Once the substance abuse screening is scheduled, the following will be imposed:
- For sports with 10 or fewer regular season scheduled contests, the athlete will serve a 4 contest suspension.
- For sports with 11-14 regular season scheduled contests, the athlete will serve a 6 contest suspension.
- For sports with 15 or more regular season scheduled contests, the athlete will serve a 8 contest suspension.
- Athletes with a first offense who not agree to screening and participation in counseling (if indicated to be appropriate) will be subject to a one calendar year suspension from the date of the offense.
- Contest suspensions will carry over to the next sport in which the athlete participates within on calendar year.
- An athlete who is reinstated into the athletic program, then fails to complete counseling will be recommended to the Review Committee for Athletics for gross misconduct.
C. Third Offense (within one calendar year of the date of the 1st offense):
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Exclusion from interscholastic participation for one calendar year.
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The athlete will agree to screening and counseling (if indicated to be appropriate) by either the family physician or an alternative agency acceptable to the appropriate building principal (before reinstatement into the extracurricular athletic program). Letchworth Central School will not be responsible for any fees associated with screening or counseling.
REVIEW COMMITTEE FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The Review Committee for Extracurricular Activities is designed to review cases of gross misconduct brought before it by the principal. Gross misconduct is any conduct or behavior including cyberspace/electronic activities which may lead school authorities to forecast/respond to substantial disruption/interference with the daily educational process. Incidents outside school may fall under school jurisdiction provided that a relationship exists between the conduct of the student and the school's educational function.
A. The Review Committee consists of the following members:
- The Director of Athletics and/or other appropriate extracurricular representative
- Building Principal
- Superintendent or Designee
- Board of Education Member
B. The student referred tot he Review Committee for gross misconduct may request to meet with the Review Committee with his/her parents or guardians.
C. Copies of the decision reached by the review committee will be on file with the Building Principal. A copy will also be sent to the student and his/her parents or guardian.
CONCERN OR COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
A reminder to parents that if a concern or complaint needs to be addressed, the recommended procedure is as follows:
- Contact the coach of the particular sport to set up a meeting.
- Please do not attempt to confront a coach before, during, or after a contest or practice. Meetings of this nature do not generally promote a successful resolution of issues.
- If concerns remain, contact the Athletic Director.
- If the concern is not resolved, a conference with the coach and Athletic Director may be appropriate and can be requested by the parent. The Athletic Director has the authority and discretion to deny the request for a conference if such a conference is unnecessary.
- If the concern still is not resolved after such conference, a conference with the coach, Athletic Director, and the Building Principal may be appropriate and can be requested by the parent. The Building Principal has the authority and discretion to deny the request for a conference if such a conference is necessary.