RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION

WORKSESSION – JUNE 2, 2003

The Worksession Meeting was called to order at 7:35 PM in the High School Cafeteria by President Willis with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. On roll call the following members were present: Mrs. Ahmed, Mr. Casadonte, Mrs. Cevasco, Mrs. Monahan, Mr. Novosielski, and Mrs. Willis. Mr. Ferguson arrived at 7:41 PM. Mr. Brancato and Mr. Gibney were absent for the entire meeting. Mrs. Conlon, Mr. Brown, and Miss Schneider were also present for the meeting.

N.J. OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS LAW

The New Jersey Open Public Meetings Law was enacted to ensure the right of the public to have advance notice of and to attend the meeting of public bodies at which any business affecting their interests is discussed or acted upon. In accordance with the provisions of this Act, the Rutherford Board of Education has caused notice of this meeting to be published by having the date, time and place thereof posted on the bulletin board outside the Borough Clerk's Office, mailed to the News Leader, Herald, South Bergenite, and the Record newspapers, and filed with the Borough Clerk.

TAPING AND BROADCASTING OF MEETINGS

As approved by the Rutherford Board of Education, we are taping and broadcasting our worksessions and regular meetings. These meetings will be broadcast without editing during a two-hour time segment on Tuesday evenings at 8:00 PM on the Comcast public access channel. At the conclusion of the two-hour segment, the broadcast will end regardless of what part of the meeting is currently being viewed due to the Comcast time constraint. Any member of the public who wishes to view the two-hour tape should make a written request to the Board Secretary who will have a copy of the tape made available within two weeks of the request. There will be a nominal fee charged for this tape reproduction. We welcome comments from residents viewing the broadcast.

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT:

Ø Pres. Willis announced that the Baccalaureate will be held in June 3, 2003 at 8:00 PM at Grace Episcopal Church

Ø Pres. Willis announced that the Board has filed an impasse regarding negotiations

REPORT OF THE STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE TO THE BOARD

MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (Action Items Only) 7:41 P.M.

Several residents spoke about the Grading System policy.

Meeting was then closed to the public at 8:06 P.M.

NEW BUSINESS (Action to be Taken)

MINUTES APPROVAL 1A. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mrs. Novosielski.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION that the minutes of the Regular Meeting and Executive Session of May 12, 2003 and the Special Meeting of May 22, 2003 be approved as recorded.

Roll Call Vote:

Mrs. Ahmed – aye	Mrs. Cevasco – aye	Mrs. Monahan – aye
Mr. Brancato – absent	Mr. Ferguson – aye	Mr. Novosielski – aye
Mr. Casadonte – aye	Mr. Gibney – absent	Mrs. Willis – aye

FINANCE:

APPROVAL OF BILLS: 1A. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Casadonte.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION that the bills listed below be approved.

Accounts Payable 5/23/03 $67.00

6/3/03 $513,068.32

$513,135.32

Payroll 5/15/03 $908,850.34

General Activities 5/7/03 $65.00

5/8/03 $1,120.18

5/8/03 $668.25

5/13/03 $17,804.80

5/14/03 $8,483.49

5/15/03 $2,286.26

5/15/03 $1,017.00

5/16/03 $3,256.05

5/19/03 $1,198.78

5/21/03 $556.00

5/21/03 $296.00

5/22/03 $5,638.27

5/23/03 $625.55

5/27/03 $313.78

$43,329.41

Total $1,465,315.07

Roll Call Vote:

Mrs. Ahmed – aye	Mrs. Cevasco – aye, abstain on check #019859	Mrs. Monahan – aye
Mr. Brancato – absent	Mr. Ferguson – aye	Mr. Novosielski – aye
Mr. Casadonte – aye	Mr. Gibney – absent	Mrs. Willis – aye

SECY/TREAS. REPORT 2A. Resolution by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Casadonte.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION that it has received and accepts the financial reports of the Secretary and Treasurer of School Monies for the month ending April 30, 2003 and certifies that the reports indicate that no major account or fund is overexpended in violation of NJAC 6:20-2.13 and that sufficient funds are available to meet the district's financial obligations for the remainder of the school year. Summary pages attached in official minute book. Detailed summary in the office of the Board Secretary.

Roll Call Vote:

Mrs. Ahmed – aye	Mrs. Cevasco – aye	Mrs. Monahan – aye
Mr. Brancato – absent	Mr. Ferguson – aye	Mr. Novosielski – aye
Mr. Casadonte – aye	Mr. Gibney – absent	Mrs. Willis – aye

NEW BUSINESS: (Action will not be taken)

PERSONNEL:

Chairperson Ahmed reported on the meeting of the Personnel Committee and items to be acted upon at the June 9, 2003 regular meeting.

PERSONNEL: Motion to move the following resignations, retirements, salary adjustments, reassignments, appointments, etc., pending approval from the State Department of Education, subject to the New Jersey Criminal Background Check and other legal requirements.

JANINE LAWLER 1. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION for the Child Study Team to utilize the services of Ms. Janine Lawler to provide extended school year speech services for Student #2000071 for 2 half-hour sessions per week for 4 weeks at the rate of $90.00 per 45 minute session as per the IEP.

DANIELLE ROSSETTI. 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION for the Child Study Team to utilize the services of Ms. Danielle Rossetti to provide extended school year services for Student #2000149 for 10 hours per week for 4 weeks at the hourly rate of $25.00 as per the IEP.

DARLENE GILABERT 3. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION for the Child Study Team to utilize the services of Ms. Darlene Gilabert to provide extended school year services for Student #2000131 for up to 10 hours per week for 8 weeks at the hourly rate of $25.00 as per the IEP.

PLATT PSYCHIATRIC 4. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION for the Child

ASSOCIATES, LLD. Study Team to utilize the services of Platt Psychiatric Associates, LLD to conduct independent psychiatric evaluations for students at a fee of $500 per evaluation.

ELIMINATION OF POSITIONS 5. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to eliminate the following positions:

Supervisor of Art and Music

Supervisor of Social Studies

CREATION OF POSITION 6. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to create the position of Supervisor of Social Studies, Fine/Performing Arts.

SOCIAL STUDIES, FINE/ 7. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to appoint

PERFORMING ARTS SUPV. Mr. James Noorigian as Supervisor of Social Studies, Fine/Performing Arts from 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at an annual salary of $94,471 (step 13, level 5, plus $922.50 second department, plus $1,300 longevity). This is a new position as a result of the reorganization of two supervisory positions into one.

SIDEBAR AGREEMENT 8. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve a sidebar agreement between the Rutherford Board of Education and Rutherford Supervisors Association.

GLORIA SAMPEDRO 9. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve a disability leave with pay to Mrs. Gloria Sampedro effective 11/10/03 through twenty (20) days following the birth of her baby, to be followed by a leave of absence under the Family Leave Act without pay, but with benefits. This is to be followed by an unpaid, no benefits child rearing leave through 6/30/04.

CURRICULUM WRITING 10. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following teachers to revise and update the 8^th grade elective courses with payment upon completion at the rate of $15 per hour for up to ten hours.

CHOI KAM LAM 11. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Ms. Choi Kam Lam as a math teacher at Union School effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $35,689 (step 1, level 1) pending further negotiations.. This is a replacement for Mr. Young.

DOUGLAS DEMO 12. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Mr. Douglas Demo as a leave replacement Spanish teacher at Rutherford High School effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $45,164 (step 6, level 5) pending further negotiations. This is a replacement for Mrs. Sampedro.

CORINNA OGDEN. 13. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Ms. Corinna Ogden as an elementary science specialist in the district effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $51,452 (step 13, level 1) pending further negotiations. This is a replacement for Ms. Braun.

CAROLYNE RUFFILO 14. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Ms. Carolyne Ruffilo as a physical education teacher at Union School effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $41,653 (step 5, level )4 pending further negotiations. This is a replacement for Mr. Steidl.

HELEN ANTZOULIDES 15. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Ms. Helen Antzoulides as a physical education teacher at the High School effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $41,358 (step 8, level 1) pending further negotiations. This is a replacement for Ms. Salvatore.

MARISA VIOLA 16. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Ms. Marisa Viola as a leave replacement Science teacher at Rutherford High School effective 9/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual salary of $35,689 (step 1, level 1) pending further negotiations. This is a leave replacement for Ms. Angerson.

KIMBERLY SOFIA 17. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION approve Ms. Kimberly Sofia as a substitute teacher effective 5/27/03 at the per diem rate of $70.00.

JOB DESCRIPTION 18. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Hall Monitor Job Description as follows:

BOARD OF EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION

Rutherford Locator: 2-266

Position: Hall Monitor

Responsible to: Building Principal

Qualifications: 1. High School Diploma

2. Demonstrate ability to work successfully with children and adults.

3. Good physical health and ability to perform assigned duties.

4. Required criminal history background check and proof of U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status.

Terms of Employment: 10 Months

Goal: To assist in the maintenance of an orderly and safe school environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Supervises entrances in school building

2. Monitors all persons entering and exiting school building

3. Oversees visitor sign in/out, distribution/collection of visitor badges

4. Directs visitors to locations throughout the school

5. Provides assistance to school personnel as requested

6. Assists in emergency evacuations and drills

7. Performs other related duties as assigned

Evaluation: Performance of this job will be evaluated by the school principal or his/her designee in accordance with a performance checklist based on the job description.

Adopted: June 9, 2003

OM COACH 19. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to create the position of Elementary Odyssey of the Mind Coach. Stipend to be negotiated with REA.

GRETA MCGILLIGAN 20. Motion to accept the resignation of Ms. Greta McGilligan, special education teacher at Union School, effective 7/1/03.

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION:

Chairperson Novosielski reported on the meeting of the Curriculum Committee and items to be acted upon at the June 9, 2003 regular meeting.

EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR 1. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve an Extended School Year program at Ridgefield High School for Student #2000018 (name on file in the office of special services). Tuition is included in yearly tuition.

RESCIND PLACEMENT 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to rescind out of district placement and extended school year services at Washington School for Student #2000183 (name on file in the office of special services) effective 5/30/03.

OUT OF DIST. PLACEMENT/ 3. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve an

EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR out of district placement for the following students (names on file in the office of special services) at South Bergen Jointure Commission, Maywood, at the annual tuition of $28,896.00 (pro-rated) effective 6/2/03, and extended school year services at the tuition of $1,800.00.

Student #2002561

Student #2000183

TEXTBOOK APPROVAL 4. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following textbook for the 2003-2004 school year:

World Geography – Thomas J. Baerwald and Celeste Fraser, Prentice Hall 2003 Edition for Grade 7 Social Studies

CURRICULUM GUIDES 5. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve the following curriculum guides for the 2003-2004 school year:

Grade 8 Problem Solving Technologies New

Social Studies – Grades 3, 4,5 Revised

Latin III High School New

Spanish I High School Revised

French I High School Revised

Elementary Spanish – Level 2 Grade 4 Revised

Music Technology Revised

Band Revised

Art By Computer Design Revised

Photo I, II Revised

G & T Inquiry Revised

FINANCE:

Chairperson Brancato reported on Finance items to be acted upon at the June 9, 2003 regular meeting.

ANNUAL AGREEMENT 1 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve an

MARASIM GROUP Annual Agreement with The Marasim Group, Inc. for Comprehensive Computer Management Services from 7/1/03 through 6/30/04 at the annual fee of $20,000.

ATHLETIC/STUDENT 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION that

INSURANCE appointment of the firm Bollinger Fowler Company be approved to provide Athletic Accident coverage for the 2003-04 school year, and to provide the Voluntary Student plan to those pupils electing to participate, for the 2003-04 school year. The premium for the Athletic Insurance, Full Excess Plan, will be $13,912.50.

TRANSFER FUND BALANCE 3. WHEREAS, N.J.A.C. 6:20-2A.12 permits school districts to transfer excess

TO CAPITAL RESERVE undesignated general fund balance to a capital reserve account at any time during the year, and also permits transfers from the capital reserve account to the debt service fund for the purpose of offsetting principal and interest payments for bonded projects which are included in the district’s long-range facilities plan; and

WHEREAS, the Borough of Rutherford School District strives to utilize all statutes that would benefit the district; and

WHEREAS, any transfer to the capital reserve and/or debt service account must be approved by the Board of Education prior to June 30^th;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Borough of Rutherford hereby directs the Business Administrator to transfer excess undesignated general fund balance, if any, to the capital reserve account in an amount not to be less than any fund balance amount at the conclusion of the 2002-2003 audit to be in excess of 6% and an amount not to exceed any fund balance amount at the conclusion of the 2002-2003 audit in excess of 5%.

INTEREST INCOME 4. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to transfer all

FROM PROCEEDS interest income earned during the 2002-2003 school year up to 6/30/03 from the investment of bond proceeds to the general fund for the purpose of using such monies to fully or partially fund a capital reserve account for future capital projects and/or use in future operating budgets to minimize future tax levies.

LANDSCAPING CONTRACT 5. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to exercise a renewal option to appoint M.G. Property Management, Inc. to perform landscaping services for the 2003-2004 school year in the amount of $39,019.04. This represents an increase of 3% over the previous base contract.

DISTRICT AUDITOR 6. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to appoint the auditing firm of Inverso & Stewart, LLC of Marlton, NJ for the 2002-03 school year audit at an amount not to exceed $20,000.

DISTRICT ARCHITECT 7. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to appoint the architectural firm of Chapin Architectural Services, P.A. for the 2003-2004 school year.

PATRICIA MORRIS ASSOC. 8. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Patricia Morris Associates to assist in the preparation of district newsletters for the 2003-2004 school year.

LDP CONSULTING GROUP 9. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to appoint LDP Consulting Group, Inc. as the district’s Health Benefits Consultants.

POLICY:

Chairperson Cevasco reported on the meeting of the Policy Committee and items to be acted upon at the June 9, 2003 regular meeting.

#5131 CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE 1. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Policy #5131 – Conduct/Discipline on first reading.

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5131/page 1 of 3

CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE

The board believes that an effective instructional program requires an orderly school environment and that the effectiveness of the educational program is, in part, affected by the behavior of pupils.

The board of education expects pupils to conduct themselves in keeping with their level of maturity, with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of other pupils, for school personnel, for the educational purpose underlying all school activities, and for the care of school facilities and equipment.

The board of education believes that standards of pupil behavior must be set cooperatively by interaction among the pupils, parents/guardians, staff and community, producing an atmosphere which encourages pupils to grow in self‑discipline. Such an atmosphere must include respect for self and others, as well as for district and community property.

The best discipline is self‑imposed, and pupils must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, and for the consequences of their misbehavior. Staff members who interact with pupils shall use proactive disciplinary action and place emphasis on the pupils' ability to grow in self‑discipline.

The chief school administrator shall develop general guidelines for pupil conduct on school property and shall direct development of detailed regulations suited to the age level of the pupils and the physical facilities of the individual schools. Board policy requires each pupil of this district to adhere to the rules and regulations established by the administration and to submit to such disciplinary measures as are appropriately assigned for infraction of those rules. The chief school administrator shall provide to pupils and their parents/guardians the rules of this district regarding pupil conduct and the sanctions which may be imposed for breach of those rules. Provisions shall be made for informing parents/

guardians whose primary language is other than English.

The regulations shall:

A. Require that pupils conform to reasonable standards of socially acceptable behavior; respect the person, property and rights of others; obey constituted authority and respond to those who hold that authority;

B. Establish the degree of order necessary to the educational program in which pupils are engaged.

Pupils who display chronic behavioral problems may be referred to the child study team for possible identification as disruptive or disaffected. Such referrals shall be in strict accordance with the due process regulations prescribed by the administrative code.

A pupil whose presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property, or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, may be suspended or expelled, following due process.

Any pupil who commits an assault (as defined by N.J.S.A. 2C:12‑1) upon a board member, teacher, administrator, volunteer or other employee of the board of education shall be suspended from school immediately according to procedural due process, and suspension or expulsion proceedings shall begin no later than 30 calendar days from the date of the pupil's suspension.

Substance Abuse

In accordance with statute and code, penalties shall be assigned for use, possession and distribution of proscribed substances and drug paraphernalia. The penalties shall be graded according to the severity of the offense. Infractions shall be reported to the local law enforcement agency in accordance with the district's memorandum of agreement. Confidentiality shall be protected in accordance with federal and state law.

Firearms Offenses

Any pupil who is convicted or adjudicated delinquent for possession of a firearm or a crime while armed with a firearm or found knowingly in possession of a firearm on any school property or on a school bus or at a school-sponsored function shall be immediately removed from the school's regular education program for a period of not less than one calendar year. The chief school administrator may modify this suspension on a case-by-case basis. Each pupil so removed shall be placed in an alternative educational program or on home instruction and shall be entitled to a hearing before the board. The hearing shall take place no later than 30 days following the day the pupil is removed from the regular education program and shall be closed to the public.

The principal shall be responsible for the removal of such students and shall immediately report them to the chief school administrator. The principal shall also notify the appropriate law enforcement agency of a possible violation of the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice.

The chief school administrator shall determine at the end of the year whether the student is prepared to return to the regular education program, in accordance with procedures established by the Commissioner of Education.

Teaching staff members and other employees of this board having authority over pupils shall take such lawful means as may be necessary to control the disorderly conduct of pupils in all situations and in all places where such pupils are within the jurisdiction of this board.

Adopted:

Legal References: N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60 et al. Disclosure of juvenile information; penalties for

disclosure

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1 Assault

N.J.S.A. 2C:33‑19 Paging devices, possession by students

N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 Unlawful possession of weapons

N.J.S.A. 18A:6‑1 Corporal punishment of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:11‑1 General mandatory powers and duties

N.J.S.A. 18A:25‑2 Authority over pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq. Discipline of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. Substance abuse

N.J.S.A. 18A:54‑20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)

N.J.A.C. 6:8‑2.1 Reporting requirements

N.J.A.C. 6:8-2.2 School-level planning

N.J.A.C. 6:29‑6.1 et seq. Substance abuse

See particularly:

N.J.A.C. 6:29‑6.3(c)

N.J.A.C. 6:29-10.1 et seq. Safe and drug free schools

N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.8 Discipline/suspension/expulsion

N.J.A.C. 6A:24-4.1(i)7 Implementation of Whole School Reform Model

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 3, 1980, encourages development of local written policy on pupil conduct.

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 4, 1985, urges boards to consider expectations for pupil behavior developed by statewide advisory panel, and to develop and adopt appropriate expectations of behavior for district pupils.

20 U.S.C.A. 1415(k) Individual with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997

Bethel School District No. 403, v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986)

Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier 484 U.S. 260 (1988)

Honig v. Doe, 484 U.S. 305 (1988)

Manual for the Evaluation of Local School Districts (August 2000)

A Uniform State Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law

Enforcement Officials (1999 revisions)

#5131.1 HARASSMENT, 2. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve

INTIMIDATION, OR BULLYING Policy #5131.1 – Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying on first reading.

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5131.1

Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying

The board of education expects pupils to treat each other with civility and respect, and will not tolerate acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying. Like other disruptive or violent behaviors, this conduct interferes with a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its pupils in a safe environment.

The board views acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying against any pupil or staff member as unacceptable conduct and will result in the disciplinary sanctions included in policies on suspension and expulsion and conduct/discipline.

“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” may be defined as any recurring gesture or written, verbal or physical act that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by 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, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function or on a school bus and that:

A. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, will have the effect of harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or

B. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

Any school employee, pupil or volunteer who has witnessed, or has reliable information that a pupil has been subject to harassment, intimidation or bullying must report the incident to the appropriate school official designated by the administration. The board shall not tolerate an act of reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying.

In determining the appropriate response to students who commit one or more acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying, school administrators should consider the following

factors: the development and maturity levels of the parties involved, the levels of harm, the surrounding circumstances, the nature of the behaviors, past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, the relationships between the parties involved and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred. Concluding whether a particular action or incident constitutes a violation of this policy requires a determination based on all of the facts and surrounding circumstances. It is only after meaningful consideration of these factors that an appropriate consequence should be determined, consistent with the case law, Federal and State statutes, regulations and policies, and district policies and procedures. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for students who commit acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion.

At each school, the principal or the principal’s designee is responsible for receiving complaints alleging violations of this policy. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this policy to the principal or the principal’s designee. All other members of the school community, including students, parents, volunteers and visitors are encouraged to report in writing a written report. Oral reports also shall be considered official reports. Reports may be made anonymously, but formal disciplinary action may not be based solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

The principal and/or the principal’s designee is responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy. In so doing, the principal and/or the principal’s designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough and complete investigation of the alleged incident.

Some acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying may be isolated incidents requiring that the school respond appropriately to the individuals 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 levels or by law enforcement officials.

In considering whether a response beyond the individual level is appropriate, the administration should consider the nature and circumstances of the act, the level of harm, the nature of the behavior, past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, and the context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred. Institutional (i.e., classroom, school building, school district) responses can range from school and community surveys, to mailings, to focus groups, to adoption or research-based bullying prevention program models, to training for certificated and non-certificated staff, to participation of parents and other community members and organizations, to 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 behavior and the consequences of

such actions and to involvement of law enforcement officers, including school resource officers.

The school district prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the administrator after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, in accordance with case law, federal and state statutes and regulations and district policies and procedures.

Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall be disciplined in accordance with district policies, procedures and agreements. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a visitor or volunteer, found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall be determined by the school administrator after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, including reports to appropriate law enforcement officials.

The policy shall be disseminated annually to all school staff, students and parents, along with a statement explaining that it applies to all acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying that occur on school property, at school-sponsored functions or on a school bus. The chief school administrator shall develop an annual process for discussing the school district policy on harassment, intimidation and bullying with students.

Staff members are encouraged to develop strategies for student self-discipline and to apply best practice for positive behavioral interventions. Through student training and dialogue with students and staff the district can clearly distinguish, for example, “friendly teasing” and “rough and tumble play” from harassment, intimidation and bullying. Through discussion the district will help students and staff discern between “telling” or responsible “reporting” (which is intended to keep someone from getting hurt) of acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying from “ratting” or “tattling.” The district uses experiential learning techniques, such as role play situations and other demonstration and modeling strategies in its information activities for students and staff.

Implementation

The chief school administrator shall ensure that the rules for this policy are applied consistently and uniformly, and that all disciplinary sanctions are carried out with necessary due process.

The board shall review all related policies on a regular basis.

Adopted:

Legal References: N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60 et al. Disclosure of juvenile information; penalties for disclosure

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1 Assault

N.J.S.A. 2C:33‑19 Paging devices, possession by students

N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5 Unlawful possession of weapons

N.J.S.A. 18A:6‑1 Corporal punishment of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:11‑1 General mandatory powers and duties

N.J.S.A. 18A:25‑2 Authority over pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq. Discipline of pupils

N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. Substance abuse

N.J.S.A. 18A:54‑20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)

N.J.A.C. 6:8‑2.1 Reporting requirements

N.J.A.C. 6:8-2.2 School-level planning

N.J.A.C. 6:29‑6.1 et seq. Substance abuse

See particularly:

N.J.A.C. 6:29‑6.3(c)

N.J.A.C. 6:29-10.1 et seq. Safe and drug free schools

N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.8 Discipline/suspension/expulsion

N.J.A.C. 6A:24-4.1(i)7 Implementation of Whole School Reform Model

New Jersey State Board of Education Resolution, September 3, 1980, encourages development of local written policy on pupil conduct.

20 U.S.C.A. 1415(k) Individual with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997

Bethel School District No. 403, v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986)

Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier 484 U.S. 260 (1988)

Honig v. Doe, 484 U.S. 305 (1988)

Manual for the Evaluation of Local School Districts (August 2000)

A Uniform State Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law

Enforcement Officials (1999 revisions)

#5126 – AWARDS FOR, 3. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve

ACHIEVEMENT Policy #5126 – Awards for Achievement on first reading.

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5126

AWARDS FOR ACHIEVEMENT

General

The board of education believes that pupil achievement should be recognized at all levels in a manner appropriate to the pupil's accomplishment.

The board directs the chief school administrator/designee to develop criteria and procedures for presenting awards to pupils for scholarship and outstanding accomplishments in the arts, athletics and citizenship.

The chief school administrator shall review and advise the board on acceptance of proposed trophies, prizes, scholarships or other awards from nonschool donors. Any such proposed award shall be free from bias as outlined in the district's affirmative action policies.

Criteria regarding eligibility and selection for awards shall be disseminated annually to all pupils and parents/guardians.

Academic Recognition

The board directs the chief school administrator/designee to establish criteria and procedures for placing pupils in grades 6 through 12 on academic honor rolls.

To be eligible for a Board of Education Scholastic Award students must meet the criteria of Maximum Honors or a 3.70 or higher weighted grade point average.

Athletic Participation

The board wishes to recognize the achievements of pupils who give many hours of their time to represent the school in interscholastic athletics. Requirements for awards in each sport shall be decided by a committee composed of coaches, athletic director and principal.

Service Participation

School service groups shall be recognized for participation in order to emphasize the importance of good citizenship in school life as outlined in the course of study.

Award of Scholarships or Prizes

The Board of Education will permit the award of scholarships or prizes to deserving pupils provided that the information regarding pupils is released only in accordance with Board policy on pupil records, the manner of selection of the recipient is approved by the principal, and the nature of the prize or award is approved by the principal.

Adopted:

Legal References: N.J.S.A. 18A:36-20Discrimination; prohibition

N.J.S.A. 18A:71-27Higher education; scholarship funds; establishment; administration

#5127 – COMMENCEMENT 4. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve

ACTIVITIES Policy #5127 – Commencement Activities on first reading.

BOARD OF EDUCATION PUPILS

RUTHERFORD 5127/page 1 of 3

COMMENCEMENT ACTIVITIES

The board endorses graduation activities and ceremonies. The date of graduation shall annually be recommended by the chief school administrator and approved by the board.

Graduation shall not occur prior to completion of the required 180 days of pupil instruction.

Guidelines for Graduation Year Activities/Graduation Procedures/Ceremonies

No pupil will be permitted to participate in graduation ceremonies unless all graduation requirements have been met.

Pupil participation in graduation year activities will require conduct of the highest caliber in all school situations.

Criteria for exclusion from these activities shall include but not limited to:

A. Recurring inappropriate behaviors

B. Consistent involvement in disciplinary action(s);

C. Suspension;

D. Collaborative evaluation by the staff.

E. Unexcused absences from rehearsal

F. Not clear of all school obligations

The final decision shall be made by the chief school administrator.

Pupils and parents/guardians shall be given advance notification of these criteria.

No pupil shall be barred from participation in graduation ceremonies for arbitrary or discriminatory reasons. A pupil who may be prevented from participation and his/her parents/guardians shall be so notified in advance and no later than two days prior to he close of the school year.

When a pupil or his/her parents/guardians experiences financial hardship and is unable to pay the costs of participation in graduation ceremonies, the board shall assume the costs of the following items:

A. Rental or purchase of cap and gown;

B. One year book;

C. Other, as may be determined by the board.

Financial hardship shall be defined by eligibility standards for free and reduced price meals under the state school lunch program.

The board reserves the right to deny participation in graduation activities when extreme circumstances warrant it. Such denial shall be treated in the same manner as a suspension and the pupil so affected shall be afforded the rights of review provided in policies of this board.

The board reserves the right to withhold a diploma and transcripts until all fines are paid.

Awarding of Diplomas

A board member shall present a copy of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States and the amendments thereto, and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and the amendments thereto to each pupil upon graduation from elementary school.

The president of the board of education and/or another designated member of the board shall award the diplomas. Board members and former board members shall be afforded the opportunity to award diplomas to their own children.

Commencement Speakers

The first commencement speaker will be the Valedictorian. Should the Valedictorian choose not to speak the next in line would be the Salutatorian. Should the Salutatorian choose not to speak, the selection will proceed in the line of ascension.

In case of tie for Valedictorian those tied shall all have the opportunity to speak.

The second speaker will be the class president.

Adopted:

Legal References:N.J.S.A. 18A:7C-5.1 Boards of education prohibited from excluding students from graduation ceremony or from obtaining yearbook for inability to pay fees

N.J.S.A. 18A:11-1 General mandatory powers and duties

N.J.S.A. 18A:36-18 Books containing organic laws at graduation

N.J.S.A. 18A:54-20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)

N.J.A.C. 6A:8-5.1 et seq. Implementation of Graduation Requirements

Ballato v. Long Branch Board of Education, 1990 S.L.D. (August 20)

Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992)

American Civil Liberties Union v. Blackhorse Pike Regional Board of Education, 84 F.3d 1471 (3d Cir. 1996)

#R6147-1 – GRADING 5. Resolution by M______, seconded by M______.

SYSTEM BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Policy #R6147-1 – Grading System on first reading.

BOARD OF EDUCATION INSTRUCTION

RUTHERFORD R6147.1/page 1 of 3

GRADING SYSTEM

It is the policy of the Board of Education that all grades be determined on the basis of fairness and nondiscrimination. It is the responsibility of the teacher to determine a grade for each pupil in his/her class to furnish reasons, supported by evidence, to substantiate any grade given.

The grading practices and policies in grades 6-12 are as follows:

1. The grading system consists of twelve letter grades as follows:

A+ B+ C+ D+ F

A B C D

A- B- C-

In equating daily/quarterly averages to the twelve-grade format, the following percentage equivalents shall apply in every department, but this does not preclude normal distribution of grades (curving of test results) in a particular set of tests to insure fairness to students as it applies to validity and reliability:

97 and above A+

93 – 96 A 73 – 76 C

90 – 92 A- 70 – 72 C-

87 – 89 B+ 67 – 69 D+

83 – 86 B 63 – 66 D

80 – 82 B- Below 63 F

77 – 79 C+

The first number of the range is the minimum number to achieve the grade and the number averages shall not be rounded up.

2. Work graded by teachers throughout the marking period may be graded either with letter grades or with numerical equivalents. The simultaneous use of both is prohibited.

3. Report card grades must be recorded in letter grades for each marking period. Numerical grades given throughout a marking period must be averaged and converted to the appropriate letter grade/value.

4. Final Examinations at the high school will count as 1/5 of the final grade.

GRADING SYSTEM

5. The following grade point average equivalents shall apply in determining the final grade for a course:

A+ 4.3 B+ 3.3 C+ 2.3 D+ 1.3 WF 0.0

A 4.0 B 3.0 C 2.0 D 1.0 WP 1.0

A- 3.7 B- 2.7 C- 1.7 F 0.0 NF 0.0

A student must achieve a final grade point average of 1.0 in order to achieve the minimum passing average.

In grades 6-8, when a final grade point average is at mid-point (1.5, 2.5, 3.5), the grade for the last marking period will determine the direction of the final grade.

6. In grades 9-12, a pupil receiving three marking period grades of “F” – one of which results in a final failure – will be prohibited from attending remedial summer school for said course. A pupil with 3 or more F’s may, however, attend summer school for said subject as a new course. One semester courses are not affected by this section of this policy. A student who fails physical education with 3 F’s may not attend a remedial summer school.

7. Pupils have the right to see their grades, if they so request, at a time convenient to the teachers. Pupils are to be informed by their teachers of the grading system at the beginning of the course.

8. A marking period grade must include homework (checked, graded, or discussed) to count as 20% of the marking period, as well as tests and quizzes. (Grades 9-12 only.)

9. A marking period grade may include projects, papers (ex. – research), laboratory performance, preparedness, effort, and class participation.

10. A marking period grade shall not include penalties for attendance, tardiness or behavior. Absences and approved school functions shall not count against a grade as long as the work which can be made up is made up within the appropriate amount of time.

11. Pupils who cut a class are to receive a zero for all work missed and shall not have the option to make up missed work.

12. In addition to the letter grades of A, B, C, D, F and their numerical equivalents, the following grades shall be recognized:

I = Incomplete

N = for foreign students only with administrative permission

WP = Withdrew passing

WF = Withdrew failing

NP = Noncredit passing

NF = Noncredit failing

Au = Audit

X = Excused

13. The SA grade (grade 6-8 only)

a. SA – indicates work below grade but recognized effort

and achievement equivalent to the child’s present capabilities.

b. The teacher planning the utilization of the SA grade shall do this in consultation with guidance and/or Child Study Team and/or the building administrator.

Adopted: August 11, 1986

Revised:

#R6147-12 – CLASS RANK 6. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve Policy #R6147-12 – Class Rank Policy on first reading.

BOARD OF EDUCATION INSTRUCTION

RUTHERFORD R6147.12

CLASS RANK POLICY

Effective with the incoming freshman class, September 2003, the GPA and class rank shall be calculated as follows:

A. All courses shall be included

B. All students shall be included

C. The weighted rank shall be used for all purposes.

D. Class Rank is the student’s placement in the class according to Weighted Grade Point Average (Wt.G.P.A.). Wt.G.P.A., is calculated by using the final letter grade point numeric average equivalents in each course, and then multiplying the numeric grade equivalents times the course credits. The sum of the grade equivalents/course credits is then divided by the total credits producing the Wt. GPA.

Before doing final calculations, 0.5 is added to all final numeric equivalents in Honors and 1.0 is added for Advanced Placement courses for grades B- and higher.

The following areas shall be taken into account to calculate GPA:

1. final grades received

2. number of credits attempted

The following is an example of the method used to compute the GPA and rank:

COURSE	FINAL GRADE	NUMERIC AVERAGE EQUIVALENTS	CREDITS	TOTAL POINTS

English 1 Honors	A	4.5	5	= 22.5
Algebra 1	C	2	5	= 10
Physical Education	A+	4.3	3.75	= 16.125
Health 9	A	4	1.25	= 5
Basic Drawing/Design 1	A	4	2.50	= 10
Environmental Science	C	2	5	= 10
World Cultures	B-	2.7	5	= 13.5
Spanish 1	A	4	5	= 20
Computer Prog. 1	A	4	2.50 35	= 10 117.125

Divide total credits into total numeric quality points to determine GPA.

3.346

35 )117.125

AP COURSES (*add 1) HONORS COURSES (*add 0.5) REGULAR

A = 5* A = 4.5* A = 4

B = 4* B = 3.5* B = 3

C = 2 C = 2 C = 2

D = 1 D = 1 D = 1

F = 0 F = 0 F = 0

WP = 1 WP = 1

WF = 0 WF = 0

E. Honors and advanced placement courses shall be so designated on transcripts.

F. If a student's record includes courses marked in a nontraditional fashion, e.g. Pass/Fail, the grade point average shall be based on those courses with traditional marks only.

G. All failing marks, as well as passing marks, shall be used in the calculation of the GPA.

H. Class rank will be computed at the end of the school year based on the final grades beginning in the ninth grade.

I. For the purpose of commencement only, the student receiving the highest GPA shall be designated Valedictorian and the student receiving the next highest GPA shall be designated Salutatorian.

J. In order to be eligible for designation as valedictorian or salutatorian, a student must attend at least six semesters of high school including the two of senior year.

K. Any student who transfers into the high school after completing more than six semesters in another high school shall not be eligible for designation as valedictorian or salutatorian.

Adopted: September 8, 1975

Revised: December 10, 1984

Revised: July 8, 1996

Revised:

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS:

Chairperson Monahan reported on Buildings and Grounds items to be acted upon at the June 9, 2003 regular meeting.

COMMUNITY POOL PROG. 1. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE RUTHERFORD BOARD OF EDUCATION to approve a renewal of the contract between the Board of Education and the Meadowlands YMCA to operate the community pool program from 9/1/03 through 8/31/04.

OLD BUSINESS: (No action to be Taken)

MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: 9:28 P.M.

Maureen Bigley commented on the running of the pool and the landscaper.

Helen Schneider commented about the Academic Award Policy.

Ruth Barnes commented about weighted averages.

Meeting was then closed to the public at 9:53 P.M.

Mr. Ferguson left at this time.

EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion by Mrs. Cevasco, seconded by Mr. Novosielski that an Executive Session be held at 9:56 P.M. for the purpose of discussing personnel. Action may or may not be taken. The Board expects to return within 15 minutes.

Approved.

The Board returned at 10:12 P.M.

ADJOURNMENT: Motion by Mr. Novosielski, seconded by Mrs. Monahan that the meeting be adjourned at 10:13 P.M.

Approved.

N.J. OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS LAW

Award of Scholarships or Prizes

Commencement Speakers

GRADING SYSTEM

EQUIVALENTS

CREDITS