Freshman Academy Student Handbook

FRESHMAN ACADEMY
STUDENT HANDBOOK

® EBHS Web Development Team

A Message From Dean Smith

High School is a time of excitement and expectation. It is a
time when young people discover who they are and more
importantly, who they can become. The Administrative
Structure at EBHS Freshman Academy creates a focused
team approach that shapes a common purpose toward
developing a sense of community and a strong
commitment to student achievement.

All freshman students are placed within administrative teams. The goal is to
assist all students adjust to EBHS standards, expectations, and routines. The
team model consists of a Dean, Guidance Counselor, Staff Assistant, and an
Office Support Professional. We believe that Team Model personalizes education
by creating a closer student to staff relationship.

Everyone at East Boston High School is excited about the upcoming school year
and welcoming our new and returning students. Parents, please encourage your
child to study hard, be positive, take advantage of all EBHS has to offer and to
strive for excellence in everything they do as excellence is not an act, it is a
habit. Below are some tips for parents of EBHS students. Please take time to
read and reflect on these ideas. With your support we can ensure that every
student has a meaningful and academically positive experience at EBHS.

What Parents Can Do To Help Their EBHS Student Succeed At EBHS

Parents often ask us what they can do to help their children succeed at EBHS.
Below are a few tried-and-true strategies to employ.

Establish A Homework Routine:

 Encourage your child to always use a notebook for recording homework
assignments. INSIST that it be completed and shown to you every night.

 Establish a regular homework time and place. Select a quiet and well-lit
place away from distractions, such as the telephone or television. Reserve
a 1½ to 2 hour block of time that can be used ONLY for homework. If your
child finishes before the time is up, he/she can read for the remaining
time. By establishing a finishing time, students are much less likely to
“forget” assignments or rush through them.

Keep Track Of Your Child's Progress:

 Remember to check the school calendar that was brought home on the
first day of school for important dates such as when progress reports and
report cards are issued.

Welcome To The East Boston High School Freshman Academy

Transitioning: Freshman year in high school is
a time of excitement and expectation. It is a time
when young people discover who they are and
more importantly, who they can become. The
transition from middle school to high school is a
big step in a young person’s life. This transition
is supported and sustained in our Freshman
Academy Model.

A Team Approach: The Freshman Academy at EBHS creates a focused team
approach that shapes a common purpose toward developing a sense of
community and a strong commitment to student achievement. Ninth graders are
placed on teams for the four content areas, english, math, science, and history.
The goal is to assist incoming ninth graders in adjusting to high school standards,
expectations, and routines. The team model is developed around the concept of
a small learning community.

Focused Structure: The concept of a Small Learning Community consists of
interdisciplinary content teams of english, math, science, and history. Students
and teachers are placed into two academic teams, blue or gold. Teaming
personalizes education by creating a closer student to staff relationship. Each
team consists of approximately 200 students. An academy leader / dean, staff
assistant, two guidance counselors and two teacher class advisors are assigned
specifically to the freshman academy. Teachers share a common planning time
and communicate regularly with parents and guardians

Uniformity & Consistency: All students are required to wear school uniforms
at the East Boston High School Freshman Academy. A safe and disciplined
learning environment is the first requirement of an effective freshman program.
We believe 9th graders who are safe and secure, who learn basic values and the
essentials of good citizenship, are better students. We believe that uniforms build
school spirit and assist the transition from grade 9 to 10 by creating a sense of
pride and ownership. Parents, teachers, and school officials have come to see
school uniforms as one positive and creative way to reduce discipline problems,
increase school safety and successfully transition EBHS 9th graders to 10th
grade.

The Freshman Academy Administrative Structure

The EBHS Freshman Academy Administrative structure is based on the
traditional Headmaster Based Leadership Model, which was first implemented by
the Boston Public Schools in 1650. It is similar to the British Normal School
Model. We have updated and adapted this model to best suit the changing needs
of our learning community of students, families, teachers and professionals.

Our administrative team composed of
a variety of professionals is
responsible for our Academy student
body. With our Academy student
population of 560, we require five
administrative professionals and two
Class Advisors to adequately service
our student population. All Freshman
Academy Staff can be contacted
through the Staff Directory section of
this website.

Freshman Academy Dean Of Students: Mr. Michael Smith

Freshman Academy Staff Assistant: Ms. Carmen Pittella

Guidance Counselor for Bilingual, Special Ed. & Repeaters: Ms.
Taryn Powers

Guidance Counselor For Regular Ed. Students: Ms. Teni Patterson

Freshman Academy Office Support: Ms. Vanessa Bigby

Freshman Academy Girls Class Advisor: Ms. Alyssa Bates

Freshman Academy Boys Class Advisor: Mr. Garcia Dalzon

The Freshman Academy Guidance Department

Our Mission: The East Boston High School Guidance Department help students
reach success in their academic program, post-secondary planning and personal
life. There are many factors that impact a student’s academic performance and
personal behavior.

Access: By providing access to various school and community resources,
guidance helps students make the choices that will lead to professional and
personal success. Students are encouraged to utilize guidance services
individually and through the comprehensive guidance program which addresses
the needs of students at each grade level.

Our Model: The East Boston High School Guidance Department is committed to
using an outreach model as one means of providing guidance to our students.

Classroom instruction ensures that all students receive
the information about available resources for personal
well-being and career planning. We believe that the
information offered through these programs is a
valuable part of each student’s education and therefore
is integrated into the school program. These programs
are continually adjusted to more effectively meet the
needs of our students.

Communication: East Boston High School students and their parents are
encouraged to meet and communicate with the Guidance Office. Individual
meetings are another service that the Guidance Department provides and we
strongly advise students to take advantage of these opportunities the Guidance
Department looks forward to working with all students and families and providing
them with the highest level of professionalism and personal care. For more
information contact the Guidance Department staff through this website.

The BPS Aspen Student Information System (SIS)

The BPS Aspen Student Information System (SIS), represents a major
investment in the use of technology & data to improve instruction, a core element
of our Acceleration Agenda. With this
system parents, our educators and school
leaders can easily access and manage
real-time information on student learning to
help personalize instruction. It's a safe,
secure, online tool that helps families
engage in their child's education. With the
SIS Family Portal you can see:

 How to create a SIS Family Portal account

 Daily attendance

 Class attendance

 Report card grades

 Academic progress (including test, quiz, and assignment grades)

 Student schedules

 Sign up for email notifications of changes to attendance and grades

A valid email account is required to create a
portal account. For assistance with creating an
email or to learn more about how to use the
web, visit Boston's Tech Goes Home website.

*View the BPS video tutorial on creating
Your Family Account and navigating the
SIS system here. *Launch the Student
Information System here. *Launch Boston's
Tech Goes Home here.

The Freshman Academy Uniform Policy

EBHS School Policy: Section 8A of our 2017-18 School Based Rules requires
that all students wear EBHS / SSC (School Site Council) approved school
uniforms. A wide variety of approved uniform clothing will be available starting
September 4th at the EBHS Family Center. For details click here.

Uniform Pricing: Short Sleeve Polo / $10.00, Long Sleeve Polo / $15.00,
Sweatshirt / $15.00. Our EBHS / SSC Approved 2017-18 Uniform Policy
Guidelines are listed below. For more information about our uniform policy, you
can contact Mr. Michael Smith / Freshman Academy Dean here.

Pants, Skirts, Shorts

 Only solid tan-colored khaki garments are acceptable.
 Garments can be no more than one size larger than the waist size and

must be worn at the waist.
 Low-rise, bagging, sagging, or dragging pants or shorts with no cuffs are

not permitted.
 Jeans, cargo carpenter pants, leggings, yoga, or sweatpants of any kind

are not permitted.
 Any belts or waistbands if worn, must be solid black.

Shirt Styles

 Only polo-style short or long sleeve shirts in Royal Blue with the EBHS
School Logo are acceptable.

 Shirt should fit appropriately and not be more than one size larger than
the student’s body size.

 Bare waists, midriffs, bare backs, and / or low necklines are not
permitted.

 Cold weather tops (i.e. crew-neck sweatshirts, fleece, or long sleeve
polo’s) must be Blue with the EBHS School Logo. No hoodies or athletic
attire is permitted unless he or she plays for an EBHS team and is
required to wear a game jersey to school for team during game days.

 Hoodies, jackets or other clothing are not permitted underneath,
or on top of the required uniform.

Shoes & Footwear

 Athletic shoes, leather shoes, and boots are all acceptable.
 Flip flops or sandals are unacceptable and will be not be permitted.
 Athletic shoes must be worn during all Physical Education classes.

The Freshman Academy Anti Bully Initiative

Bullying Is Unwanted: Bullying is aggressive
behavior among school aged children and adults that
involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The
behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be
repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and
who bully others may have serious and lasting
problems. In order to be considered bullying, the
behavior must be aggressive and include:

An Imbalance Of Power: People who bully use their power such as physical
strength, access to embarrassing information, or popularity to control or harm
others. Power imbalances can change over time and in different situations, even
if they involve the same people. Law enforcement agencies have reported that
criminal bullying incidents have been increasing through social media websites.

Repetition: Bullying behaviors happen more than once or have the potential to
happen more than once. Bullying includes actions such as making threats,
spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, and excluding
someone from a group on purpose.

There Are Many Roles: Bullies can bully others, they
can be bullied, or they may witness bullying. When
people are involved in bullying, they often play more
than one role. Sometimes people may both be bullied
and bully others or they may witness other people
being bullied. It is important to understand the multiple
roles played by bullies in order to
effectively prevent and respond to bullying.

What To Do: If you feel you are being bullied or threatened in any way, do not
respond to the bullying and report the incident immediately to your teacher or any
staff member. Remember you are not alone and your confidentiality is protected.
We are trained to identify, prevent and stop this negative behavior from occurring
at East Boston High School.

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Freshman Academy School Based Rules

The staff and students at East Boston High School are expected
to respect each other’s rights and privileges in order to create the
proper climate to further the learning process. The administration
will utilize all the remedial resources available in our schools,
community and city to assist our students. Depending upon the
severity of the offense, the teacher may take immediate corrective
measures, e.g., confer with the student, detention, contact parents,
etc.

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Disciplinary Action
A description of each of the possible responses to disciplinary problems are as follows:

Detention
A student is expected to report for detention on time and to behave in an orderly manner. Students
who are serving detention must provide their own transportation. At East Boston High School
there are two types of detention:

School detention, which is assigned by administrators, is for one to three days for 45 minutes per
day in either the morning or afternoon.

Teacher detention is for up to 60 minutes before or after school for a maximum of 3 days. After
three teacher detentions, teacher may refer student to Staff Assistant.

Loss of school privileges.
Students may be denied the right to participate in a given activity for as long as one week at a
time. Included are athletic contests, field trips, and competitions. Continued problems may result
in the loss of school privileges for more extended periods of time.

Restitution
Students are required to replace or pay for stolen or vandalized property, equipment, etc. Failure
to pay restitution for property damage and vandalized, stolen or private property may result in
court action.

Referral
Students may be referred to resources both in and outside of East Boston High School. These
services include, but are not limited to, guidance counseling, referral by the student support
services coordinator, intervention and counseling juvenile round table, Chapter 766 and health-
related service agencies who offer programs at the school.

Confiscation
Inappropriate items, e.g., laser rods, hats, MP3 players, IPods, PEDS, cellular phones, headphones,
cards, open cans or bottles, lighters and cigarettes, sunglasses, spray paint, permanent markers,
chains, studded jewelry, etc. will be taken from the student and returned at the end of the school
day. Detention will be assigned. For repeat offenders, the items will only be returned to a parent.
Water pistols/water guns: Students are reminded that such items, although toys, are inappropriate
in a school setting. All such objects will be confiscated and returned to a parent/guardian.
Students using such objects are disrupting school activities and are subject to appropriate
penalties.

Attendance
All students are expected to conform to the attendance policies of the Boston Public Schools. (See
page two of this booklet for these policies.) The absences of students for the following reason will
be excused (X) if the student presents official documentation:

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● Medical
● Legal
● Death in Family
● Verifiable Notes from Parents.

Tardiness
School is in session between 7:30a.m. – 1:50 p.m. A student is considered school tardy if he/she
is not in the first academic period by 7:30a.m. From 7:31 through block one all students are
marked with a T. These students must pick up a tardy slip at the front door before reporting to the
first period academic class.

● 7:30 – 7:50 AM Recorded in Aspen as tardy, however no repercussions. (40-40-60 is in
play). Automatic phone call home (ConnectEd).

● 7:51 to 10:30: First five tardies are free.
o 6th to 8th tardies: parent contact, detention (tardy today, detention same day).
o 9th and 10th tardies: could result in in-house suspension (all day) as follow.

Student will serve an all day suspension receiving work from all his teachers to do during the day.
Student will also receive a contract to take home for parent’s signature informing the parent that if
their child is late again the parent will need to come to school with the child. This procedure
repeats again from the 6th tardy every time the student is late after the 10th time.

NOTES:
*** No student will be allowed into the building after 10:30 a.m. (exception) Official
documentation
*** All tardies are recorded and count towards 40/40/60.
*** All parents will receive an automated phone call each time the student is late.
*** Notes: Only notes which are official will be accepted and will excuse the students tardy
and

students will be exempt from the detentions and 40/40/60.

(Ex Note): Court/Medical
Notes from parents will not be accepted!!!

*** Students who have been tardy 6 or more times - parents will receive a phone call and
parent conference subject to suspension

Tardy/Attendance policy:
40/40/60 = 40 absences & 40 tardies COMBINED = 60
Yearly: Any student who has 40 days absent or tardy, or the two together total 60 (ex: 35 absent,
25 tardy) will not be allowed to participate in any school related activities for the remainder of the
school year. This includes, Scholarship eligibility, Graduation ceremony, senior or junior prom,
athletics, NHS, clubs, field trips, any other school-related activities. This also includes attending
the academic and athletic banquets. A student who feels he or she has extenuating circumstances
may file an appeal directly to the Headmaster.

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Consequences:
By Term: Based on warning notice time, you will get a code:
3 or LESS A & T = GREEN ZONE
4 & 8 A & T = YELLOW ZONE
9 & more A & T = RED ZONE
This will refresh at the beginning of the next term. Your total absences and tardies will accumulate
for the entire school year. Suspended days will count as absent days for the purposes of 40/40/60.
Please see Attachment A.

Class Tardiness
Students are expected to be in the classroom when the bell rings. Students who report late to class
have committed a behavioral offense. Teachers will assign detention and log it on the Journal tab
in Aspen.

Class Cutting
Students who are present in school and have an unauthorized absence from class have committed a
behavioral offense. The absence is also considered an unexcused absence. Excessive cutting is a
suspendable offence according to the BPS Code of Discipline. Students leaving the building
without permission before 10:30 a.m. will be marked absent for the day. No make-up work will be
given to any student that leaves the school without permission. Students who do not serve their
assigned detention will also be subject to suspension (cutting).

Cell Phone Policy: Students will be allowed to use their cell phone only during passing time and
lunch time. Students can use their phone for texting, e-mail, but are not allowed to make phone
calls, face time or listen to music wearing headphones. Phones must be put away as soon as the
bell rings.
Consequences:
First Offense: Phone will be taken from the student by the teacher and given to an
Administrator/Staff Assistant. Phone will be returned at the end of the day.

All Other Offenses: Phone will be taken from the student and parent will have to come to school
to get the phone. No exceptions.

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Amendment A

Yearly: Any student who has 40 days absent or tardy, or the two together total 60 (ex: 35 absent,
25 tardy) will not be allowed to participate in any school related activities for the remainder of the
school year. This includes but is not limited to scholarship eligibility, graduation ceremony,
senior or junior prom, athletics, National Honor Society, field trips, clubs, and awards
banquets. A student who feels he or she has extenuating circumstances may file an appeal directly
to the Headmaster.

Absences/Tardiness ZONE Repercussions
combined GREEN
3 or less FULL PARTICIPATION

4-8 YELLOW PROBATIONARY PERIOD
9 or more RED Buyback Period

Loss of all school related privileges

This will refresh at the beginning of the next term. Your total absences and tardies will accumulate
for the entire school year.

Suspended days will count as absent days for the purposes of 40/40/60.

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Early Dismissal/School Arrival
Students must present (before school) a written request from a parent or a guardian in the form of
a verifiable note and the medical appointment card to the Assistant Headmaster in the main office.
No dismissal notes will be accepted after 7:40 a.m. No student under 16 will be released unless
accompanied by a parent/guardian or another adult assigned by the parent/guardian. Students who
are dismissed early are marked absent for each class missed and will be marked absent for the
entire day if they leave before 11:00 a.m. Any student who arrives after 11:00a.m without a
verifiable parental note will be sent home and will not get credit for the school day. Student will
be mark absent for the day.

Field Trips
While on a field trip, each student is required to conform to all the rules and regulations of both
the Boston Public Schools and East Boston High School. Only those students who are on the
official field trip list may participate in the activity. No student from East Boston High School
may use private transportation to visit a field trip site.

Front Door
School is in session (7:30a.m. – 1:50p.m.), the front door is the only point of entrance into and out
of the building. Students may only use the side doors before school and at dismissal (1:50p.m).
All visitors entering the building will present and provide a valid ID, will receive a visitor’s pass
and must sign in the visitors log book, at the front door where they will be directed to an
administrative or guidance office. At the end of the visit, visitor will sign out in the log book
return the visitor’s pass and collect his/her ID.

Smoking
East Boston High School is a “smoke-free” zone. Smoking and all tobacco products including
electronic cigarettes are not allowed on school property (which begins at fences) or on school
buses. This smoking ban is in effect for all students, staff members, visitors, etc.

Consequences for Violation
Students will receive either a (3) three-day or (5) five-day suspension.

Passes
EBHS has a limited pass policy. Students may be given a pass only in a case of extreme
emergency. Passes are not allowed during the first and the last 15 minutes of the class. All
students must have their school ID to leave the classroom.

Gambling/Card Playing
Students are not allowed to play cards or to engage in any “games of chance.”

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Student ID

In 2016 – 2017 EBHS students will have picture IDs, provided by the school. These ID’S
must be in every students possessions and visible at all times. Students will not get a pass
without having a visible ID. Students who do not have their ID’s will be sent home to get them,
parents will be notified. Chronic violations of this rule will result in parental conference and
disciplinary action.

Electronic Devices
Students will not be allowed to use or have any electronic device except for ELD levels 1 and 2
students for translation purposes (IPod, MP3 player, or headphones) on school premises during the
hours of 6:30a.m – 1:50p.m. The device must be turned off during these hours. Any student who
refuses to follow this policy will be subjected to suspension.
First Offense: The phone will be taken from the student by the teacher and given to an
Administrator/Staff Assistant. The phone will be returned at the end of the day.
All Other Offenses: The Phone will be taken from the student and a parent will have to come to
school to get the phone. No exceptions.

East Boston High School is not liable for lost or stolen devices.

Cell Phone Policy/Electronic Device: MCAS/ Advanced Placement Exams
All students must pass in their cell phones prior to MCAS Testing.

▪ Each student will be given a small manila envelope for their cell phone; cell phones will be
turned off prior to placing in the envelope.

▪ Students will write their name and student ID on the envelope and seal it.
▪ Proctors will collect envelopes before testing.
▪ Envelopes will be kept in the testing room.
▪ Envelopes will be returned to student when the answer /test booklets are collected.
▪ Students who violate the Cell Phone Policy will be subject to the regulations of EBHS and

the Mass Department of Education.
1. Any student found to be using an electronic device during any test session or
during the MCAS lunch will have his/her test invalidated by the Department of
Education
2. Any student found to be in possession of an electronic device (i.e. did not put it in
the cell phone envelope) will have the device confiscated for the duration of the
MCAS Testing period; in addition, the student will be subjected to a suspension.

Foods
Eating or drinking in the classroom or corridors is prohibited. Open or uncapped beverage
containers and open packages of foods/snacks are considered a violation of this rule. The
consumption of food is restricted to the cafeteria. Clear water is the only beverage allowed.

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Consequences for Violation
A student who is found eating or drinking in the classroom or the corridors is subject to one (1) to
three (3) days of detention. Open food and beverage containers will be confiscated.
Dress Code
No hats, bandanas or head coverings flip flops leggings and yoga pants are to be worn within the
school building by any student, teacher, or staff member.
Consequences for Violation
The Staff Assistant will assign three (3) days detention and will contact the parent by telephone to
relate the student’s violation of our school-based rules.

Dress Code
1. Clothing with holes or rips that are located more than 4 inches above the knee
2. Hats and head coverings (excluding religious head coverings).
3. Clothing that makes explicit reference to gang affiliation, obscene language, drugs, sex or
violence
4. Swimming/Beach attire
5. Shorts, skirts or dresses the hem of which is more than 4 fingers above the knee
6. No skintight attire.
7. Students may not wear midriff-type apparel.
8. Leggings and yoga pants are not allowed in school.
9. No spaghetti straps, tank tops or visible under clothing will be permitted. Low-cut
suggestive, see-through, or revealing clothing is not acceptable.
10. Pants/shorts/shirts/skirts will be worn on the waist above the point of the hip and will not
be more than one waist size larger than the actual waist size of the student. Under garments
must not be visible.
11. Sunglasses may not be worn in the buildings.
12. Any other attire or grooming that is perceived by the administration, as being detrimental
to the education process will not be allowed.
13. Student dress for social functions will be determined by the sponsors of these functions
and announced prior to the occasion.
14. No flip flop of any kind will be permitted for safety reasons.

Consequences for Violation
The Headmaster shall determine if any item, not covered by this dress code, is disruptive to the
learning environment or creates a safety concern. It shall be dealt with on an individual basis. If a
student is found in violation of the dress code policy, an effort to notify a parent to bring a change
of attire will be made. If the parent is unable to bring a change of attire or the parent does not give
the student permission to go home to change, the student will not be allowed to enter the
classroom

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Ninth, Tenth and Eleventh Grade Uniform Policy

A. Pants, Skirts, Shorts
● Solid tan-colored khaki
● No more than one size larger than the waist
● Worn at the waist
● No low-rise, bagging, sagging, or dragging pants or shorts
● No cuffs in the pant legs
● No jeans, leggings/yoga, or sweatpants of any kind
● Belts, if worn, must be solid black.

C. Shirt Styles
● Polo-style short or long sleeve shirts in Royal Blue w/school logo.
● Shirt should fit appropriately and not be more than one size larger than the student’s
body size.
● No bare waists, midriffs, bare backs, and/or low necklines permitted
● Undershirts, if worn, must be solid white
● Cold weather tops (i.e. crewneck sweatshirts, fleece, or long sleeve polo’s) must be Royal Blue
w/school logo. No hoodies and or school athletic attire is permitted unless he or she plays for an
athletic EBHS team and is required to wear a game jersey to school for team representation
during game days.
● No “Hoodies,” jackets or other clothing is permitted underneath, or atop of the required school
issued uniform.

D. Shoes
● Athletic shoes, leather shoes, and boots are all acceptable.
● NO flip flops of any kind will be permitted.
● Athletic shoes must be worn for physical education classes.

Consequences
All students at East Boston High School are expected to comply with the Dress Code. Non-
compliance may result in, but not be limited to, the following:

1st Offense:
● Student will receive a verbal reminder and a copy of our Dress Code will be sent home to
parents/guardians.
● If available, students will be required to wear a clean uniform from the reserve closet at the
school, unless a parent/guardian brings a uniform from home. The student is expected to
return the uniform to the school office at the end of the school day. The student must turn
their cell phone as collateral to receive a “loaner,” shirt. The cell phone will be returned
upon receipt of the shirt.

2nd Consecutive Offense:
● Parents/ Guardians will be called to discuss the Dress Code and problem-solve strategies to
aid the family in complying.
● Parents/ guardians will be asked to bring an appropriate change of clothes. If they are
unable to do so, students will be required to wear a clean uniform from the reserve closet at
the school, if such a uniform is available. The student must turn their cell phone as
collateral to receive a “loaner,” shirt. The cell phone will be returned upon receipt of the
shirt.
● Student will meet with the STAFF ASSISTANT to develop strategies to help the student
comply with the policy.

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3rd Consecutive Offense:
● At the discretion of the Headmaster and/or the Freshman Academy Leader.

Plagiarism
All students are expected to submit their own original work or appropriately credit others when
necessary. Plagiarism is a violation of the BPS Code of Discipline and standards are subjected to
BPS discipline consequences. (no grade for the assignment, possible suspensions)

Unauthorized Area of Building
Students might not leave any class without a pass. Students found in any area of the building
without a pass/agenda book during class time will be considered to be in an unauthorized area.
This includes the lavs; gym; auditorium; empty/unsupervised classrooms; teacher’s rooms. In
addition, before 6:30am and after 1:50pm, students are not allowed above the first floor – front
door cafeteria area unless they are being supervised by a teacher.

Metal Detectors/Scanning
In order to ensure the safety and security of all the students and staff, a policy of conducting
random metal detection scanning will be in effect. This scanning might be done in the morning at
the entrance to the school as students arrive or at other locations/times as directed by the
Headmaster.

Vandalism/Graffiti
To keep our school graffiti free, students are not allowed to have in their possession permanent
markers, spray paint, etc. These inappropriate items will be confiscated.
Consequences for Violation
This action may ultimately result in suspension, restitution for damage and/or court action.

Please be informed that it is illegal to audio, video tape or photograph any person without
their consent. Violators will be subjected to the Boston Public School Code of Discipline and
may also face criminal charges.

Videotaping
Please be informed that it is illegal to audio or video tape or take photographs of any persons
without their consent. Violators will be subjected to the Boston Public School Code of Discipline
and may also face criminal charges. Any student, who appears in a video, who is watching the
fight and is not doing anything to stop the fight, will be subjected to the Boston Public School
Code of Discipline. Students posting pictures/videos, etc. of students or teachers on the internet
will face consequences possible leading to expulsion.

Technology

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Computers are to be used for academic purposes only. The Student Contract for Internet Use must
be completed, signed by all students and their parents/guardian, and returned to the school before
Internet use is allowed. Unsupervised use of computers before and after school hours may result
in suspension.
Consequences for Violation
Inappropriate use of computer technology or the use of threatening or abusive language on E-mail,
Internet or any other computer application will result in a loss of computer privileges and other
appropriate penalties including suspension.

Parking
Under the security measures formulated by the Boston Public School Department student parking
on school property is prohibited.
Consequences for Violation
If necessary, cars will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Bus Passes
The School Committee of the City of Boston has established the eligibility rules for a bus pass,
based upon how far the student lives from the school. If the student has a recently changed
address, two proofs of residence, e.g., utility bills, financial statements addressed to home, etc.
must be given to the Registrar’s Office. Changes to the student’s transportation authorization
code, if necessary, will be made. Bus passes are a privilege and poor attendance will result in
a deactivation of the student pass.

Bus Behavior
The school bus is an extension of our school and all behavior rules applying to East Boston High
School also are in effect on the school bus. Students who do not behave appropriately may lose
this privilege. Rules are as follows:

● Remain seated while bus is in motion and keep all books, etc. out of the aisle.
● Keep hands/feet/head inside the bus and do not throw anything out the window.
● Opening and closing windows and doors is not allowed, except for the driver.
● Riders must not play with the school bus or its equipment.
● Engage in quiet talk.
● In case of an emergency, students are to remain on the bus, unless requested to leave by the

driver.
● Smoking is never allowed on the bus.
● Students, who refuse to promptly obey the directions of the driver, or refuse to obey

regulations after discussion with the Headmaster and parents, give up their rights to ride on
the bus – usually three days for the first offense and up to ten days for the second offense.
Students may be permanently denied transportation after a cluster office hearing or if an
alternative form of transportation is provided.
● Video monitoring systems may be installed in buses. Videotapes will be used to supplement
drivers’ reports and may be used in any disciplinary hearing.
● Non emergency use of emergency door may result in suspension and or loss of bus privilege.

12

Lockers
The homeroom teacher assigns every student a locker in the homeroom area. Only official school
combination locks will be permitted. A deposit of $6.00 is required each year to rent a locker and
lock; $2.00 will be returned at the end of the school year. Lockers and locks are school property.
Students may not “share” lockers and may only use the assigned locker. All students sharing
lockers are responsible for the content of the lockers (all parties). Students sharing lockers will
lose the privilege to have a locker. Students must keep lockers locked at all times. In order to
ensure the safety and security of all students and staff, a policy of conducting random locker
searchers will be in effect. Students are not allowed to go to their lockers during first and third
lunch in order to prevent the disruption of classes. No students are allowed at their lockers during
1st and 3rd lunches as it is a disturbance to classes.

Visitors
Parents are welcome to visit at any time. All visitors entering the building will present and
provide a valid ID, will receive a visitor’s pass and must sign in the visitors log book, at the front
door where they will be directed to an administrative or guidance office. At the end of the visit,
visitor will sign out in the log book return the visitor’s pass and collect his/her ID. Students may
not bring friends, relatives, or young children to school at any time. Students who are absent from
school are not to be in the building for any reason. Anyone who violates these rules will be
considered a trespasser.

Sexual Harassment
Any student who engages in acts of sexual harassment, which are defined as sexually related
physical contacts or offensive sexual insults or comments, will be subject to suspension.
Consequences for Violation
Student will receive either a three or five day suspension.

Inappropriate Language
Any student, who uses racial slurs, profanity, or obscene language in a persistent and/or abusive
manner, will be subject to suspension and will be referred to counseling.
Consequences for Violation
Student will receive either a three or five day suspension.

The Freshman Academy Fall Newsletter

86 White St. East Boston 617-635-9896 Michael Smith, Dean Of Students Vol. IV, No. IX, Fall 2017

Academy Events Making The Internet Safer For Your Child

Sept 07: First Day Of School Does your high schooler’s online reputation
Sept 22: Parent Curriculum Night match how she wants others to view her? Share
Oct 09: Columbus Day this advice. Keep it positive. Online posts are fair
Oct 27: Canobie Lake Field Trip game for viewing by college admissions officers
Nov 13: Veteran's Day and future employers. Suggest that your teen post
Nov 20: Powderpuff Football items that paint her in a good light, such as links
Nov 23: EBHS Spirit Day to interesting ( and non controversial ) news
Nov 23: 97th Annual Pep Rally articles, photos of her volunteer work, videos of
Nov 23: Early Release Students her sports performances, or inspiring quotes.
Keep It Professional: Encourage your teenager
to use an appropriate business like email address.

PAarceandt eInmvoylvePmaernet:nhtelTpeyeonur Ttiepensto Now Is The Time To Get A Head Start On College Essays

stay motivated by working and always Now is the time to get a head start on college essays.
showing interest in her schoolwork. For Here are strategies to help your teen write ones that will
example, if she’s reading books by make his applications stand out. Consider The Question:
Edgar Allan Poe, watch a movie based Perhaps the admissions committee wants to know his
on one of his short stories with her. greatest moment or why their college is right for him.
Then, compare the movie with the Brainstorm Answers: Have him make a list of his
story. How are they alike? How are strengths or any life-changing events. Hint: His essay
they different? should reveal something that’s not obvious from his
application. Add Examples: Maybe volunteering at a
Step Family Fun: While it may take homeless shelter taught him that every person has some
time for blended families to form value, or visiting a civil rights landmark inspired him to think about pursuing a public
comfortable bonds, step parents can service career. Write and Edit: He should use words that show rather than tell.Instead
use special activities to make lasting of “I learned a lot as club president,” he might try “As club president, I was able to
connections. Find out what your ste child involve more students in school activities.” Tip: Be sure he proofreads carefully.
enjoys (tennis, puzzles), and spend time Even the smallest errors show a lack of concern for his work. If you need help with
together. Tip: frame some pictures of the college admissions process, please feel free to call the guidance department.
the two of you together to show you
care about being with your child.

Humbly Speaking; Being humble will Our School Site Council Responsibilities And Duties
make your high schooler more open to
learning from others and help her get Description: The EBHS School Site Council is a
along with people. To foster this trait group of teachers, parents, school employees, and
try to encourage her to see herself as students that work with the principal to develop,
important, but not better than others. A review and evaluate school improvement programs
positive view of others will better and school budgets. The members of th e EBHS
reinforce a positive view of herself. School Site Council are elected or invited by their
Strengths, such as friendliness or a sense peers. For example, parents elect the parent representatives and teachers elect
of humor, and avoid being negative
critical or putting anyone down as this teachers. Duties & Responsibilities: The exact duties of school site councils vary
can lead to unwanted confrontation. If from state to state and even between districts in the same state, but site councils
generally either make decisions or advise the principal on the school budget and
you need guidance or help with your teen, the academic or school improvement plan.
reach out to our guidance department.

® 2017 Corcoran Communications

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