Chase Collegiate School Student Handbook 2008-2009

2008 - 2009 Student & Parent Handbook Policies and Procedures

MISSION STATEMENT We educate tomorrow’s leaders and inspire in each student a life-long passion for learning, personal achievement, and contribution to the community. To fulfill our mission we: • Develop each student’s intellectual, ethical, creative, social, and athletic potential. • Select motivated and resourceful students with diverse backgrounds and interests, intellectual curiosity, and sound character. • Attract and support a talented and dedicated faculty with diverse backgrounds and interests, intellectual curiosity, and sound character. • Teach clear and concise written and spoken communication, critical thinking, analytical problem solving and technological sophistication. • Foster respect, courtesy, responsibility, kindness. • Promote service to the community through good citizenship and concern for the welfare of others. • Encourage family commitment to the life of the School. • Cultivate life-long stewardship and support for the School’s distinguished history and traditions.

Dear Families: We welcome families, both new and returning, to the 2008 – 2009 school year. As we begin our 143rd academic year, I am excited about the growth we will all see in our students as they more through our challenging, supportive program. This Handbook contains information about the procedures and policies that help our School community operate in harmony and with shared expectations. Please carefully review the important Common Procedures, which are located at the front of the Handbook, as well as the policies that are detailed for each division. They describe the thoughtful and planned way that we work with children and families. Education is an ever more challenging mission in this day and age. And it is ever more critical. Our teachers, administrators, and entire staff work hard throughout the year to fulfill the very ambitious Mission that is printed on the following page. Our Mission outlines our commitment to engage children and families in education in the broadest sense; an education that develops the individual child, fosters community concern, and cultivates life-long relationships. Please feel free to contact me, our Academic Dean or any of the Division Heads should you have a question about any items in this book.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

Chase Collegiate School does not discriminate against any person in admission, employment, or otherwise because of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation or age in violation of existing state or federal laws or regulations. 2

3

Parents and Chase Collegiate School

CHASE COLLEGIATE SCHOOL EST. 1865

TABLE

OF

CONTENTS

Common Policies & Procedures . . . . .7 Lower School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Upper School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Honor Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Telephone/Fax Numbers . . . . . . . . . .92 School Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Dress Code Attachment . . . . . . . . . . .97

4

Every independent school needs and expects the cooperation of its parents, who must understand and embrace the school’s mission, share its core values, and fully support its curriculum, faculty, and staff. When joined by a common set of beliefs and purposes, the school and its parents form a powerful team with far-reaching positive effects on children and the entire school community. Working together, parents and school professionals exert a strong influence on children to become better educated; they also help them to mature by modeling adult working relationships based upon civility, honesty, and respect. Parents best support a school climate of trust and respect by communicating concerns openly and constructively to the teacher or administrator closest to the problem. In most cases, parental concerns should be directed first to the classroom teacher, followed by the student’s advisor (in the Middle and Upper Schools), and then to the Division Head if necessary. If a satisfactory conclusion is not reached within the division, the parent should contact the Academic Dean and, finally, the Head of School. Efforts by parents to lobby other parents will be viewed by the school as counterproductive.

Parents and the Board of Trustees At Chase Collegiate School, decision-making authority at the highest level resides in a volunteer Board of Trustees, whose membership often includes current parents. The Board focuses on three areas critical to the success of any independent school: it selects, evaluates, and supports the Head of School, to whom it delegates authority to manage the school; it develops broad institutional policies that guide the Head in running the School; and it is accountable for the financial well-being of the school. The Board of Trustees does not intervene in the daily affairs of the school, such as curriculum development and hiring and evaluation of faculty and staff. In the conduct of its official business, the Board acts only as a whole; individual Trustees, including the Board Chair, have no 5

authority to act unless specifically authorized to do so by the Board acting as a whole. Parents with concerns about the School or with decisions made by the administration or faculty are encouraged to inquire about and follow the school’s review process, which is outlined in the previous section.

Parents and the Faculty and Administration Parents play an essential and positive role in the life of Chase Collegiate School . Not only are parents advocates for their children, they also support the faculty and administration through volunteer activities and events. The relationship between parents and the faculty and administration is formally governed by the school’s written enrollment contract and handbook, in which its procedures are spelled out. By enrolling their child in Chase Collegiate School , parents agree to subscribe to the school’s mission, follow its rules, and abide by its decisions. Trust and mutual respect are essential underpinnings of effective working relationships with parents. While parents may not agree with every decision by the school, in most cases, the parents and School will find enough common ground to continue a mutually respectful relationship. In an extreme case, when a constructive, positive relationship cannot be maintained, the school reserves the right to deny continued attendance or re-enrollment.1

1

Adapted from The Association of Independent Maryland Schools

6

CHASE COLLEGIATE SCHOOL COMMON POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Attendance The School’s Academic Calendar for the upcoming year is published in January of every year. Families are responsible for checking the calendar for dates that the School is in session. Vacations should be scheduled during the provided holidays so that they do not interfere with the child’s regular school schedule. We believe that there is no substitute for a child being actively present in school and we cannot duplicate experiences or lessons that are missed. Students or families who know in advance of an absence for legitimate reasons other than illness (including college visits) must contact the Division Head in advance to request approval of the date of the anticipated absence. Please consult each section of the Handbook for your child’s specific policy and procedure. Students who accumulate more than twenty absent days during a school year may not be eligible for promotion to the next grade or continuing at the School.

The Honor System and Code of Conduct at Chase THE HONOR SYSTEM The purpose of the Honor Code is to reinforce the positive values of Chase Collegiate School. It creates a community of trust among students and faculty by establishing a set of commonly articulated and understood principles to use as guidelines for right conduct. The Honor Code enhances our community agreement that all members will “think independently and act responsibly,” as stated in the Mission of the Upper School, and strives to instill virtue in students to carry with them throughout life. The Honor Code “On my honor, I pledge my academic integrity, honesty, respect, and sportsmanship to the Chase Collegiate School community, and I will encourage others to do the same. As a member of this community I will not lie, cheat, steal or demonstrate cruelty in any form.” 7

In the Lower and Middle Schools, violations of the Honor Code are handled by the appropriate teachers and Division Head. In the Upper School, the community abides by the Honor Code though an Honor Code Constitution and an Honor Council (see Upper School section, pp. 72 ) Keeping the Honor Code alive in our community is central to a safe and successful educational environment at Chase.Therefore, community members should not tolerate lying, cheating or stealing. CODE OF CONDUCT Philosophy: The most fundamental duty of any educational institution is to protect its educational environment and the physical and emotional safety of its community. Chase Collegiate School’s Code of Conduct reflects these core values and establishes basic rules and expectations that all members of our community are expected to observe. These rules are established to preserve a healthy social and educational climate and to promote the smooth running of day-to-day operations of our busy school. Chase believes strongly that the purpose of discipline is to teach and not merely to punish. As such, we invest all discipline with instruction both to address specific concerns and to help guide students as they continue their journey through our school community. Our students learn that as individuals they have a role to play and an obligation to our larger community, that one is accountable for one’s words and actions, and that with privilege and freedom comes responsibility. Balancing the needs of the individual with the larger interests of the group is central to all of our conversations around these issues. Students may be disciplined for conduct on or off campus or at any school-sponsored activity that endangers persons or property, is disruptive of the educational process of the School, or that violates a policy or regulation of the School. These actions can lead to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or dismissal.

Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, the following: MAJOR SCHOOL RULES: In addition to the Honor Code’s standards regarding lying, cheating, and stealing the following rules are established for the safety and well-being of the school and all its students: 1. Students are expected to treat all members of the Chase community with respect. Acts of physical aggression, threatening, hazing, or intimidation of any kind will not be tolerated, nor will the use of obscene, profane, disrespectful or harassing language or actions, including the use of racial, ethnic, homophobic, or sexual slurs that target an individual's gender, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, physical or mental disability, national origin or ancestry. (See Harassment Policy pg. 15) 2. Unauthorized possession, sale, distribution, use or consumption of tobacco, drugs, narcotics or alcoholic beverages; or any substance purported to be a tobacco product, drug, narcotic, or alcoholic beverage. For the purposes of this paragraph, the term "drugs" shall include, but shall not be limited to, any medicinal preparation (prescription and non-prescription) and any controlled substance whose possession, sale, distribution, use or consumption is illegal under state and/or federal law.This includes possession of paraphernalia used or designed to be used in the consumption, sale or distribution of drugs, alcohol or tobacco. 3. Leaving school grounds, school transportation or a school-sponsored activity without authorization. 4. The defacing, damaging or destruction of school property or the property of others. 5a. Possession of any weapon, whether functional or not, weapon facsimile, or any other dangerous object. 5b. A student who knows that knives, weapons, or firearms of any kind are either in a student’s possession or located on campus is obligated to report this information to an adult immediately.

8

9

6. Any threat or act that threatens the safety of students, other community members, and/or other persons. School officials will comply fully with local authorities in such matters. OTHER SCHOOL RULES: -Chase is a smoke-free campus. A student may not use tobacco at any time, in any place, on the school property.

-Accumulation of offenses such as school and class tardiness, class or study hall cutting, or failure to attend detention.

-A student must not be absent from school, class, study hall, home room period, or other required meetings without proper authorization.

-A student may not loiter in the parking lots, in cars, in the rest rooms, or in any of the wooded areas on campus during school hours or during a scheduled school activity.

-A student may not disrupt any class, study hall, assembly, or other group meeting or activity.

-Trespassing on school grounds while suspended from school.

-A student may not use obscene, profane, disrespectful, demeaning, pejorative, or discriminatory language or gestures. Joking and teasing are not acceptable excuses for hurtful comments or behavior.

-Unauthorized and/or reckless and/or improper operation of a motor vehicle on school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity.

-A student may not misuse, destroy, or intercept official school records or school communications with parents. -Refusal by a student to identify himself/herself to an adult when asked or to obey the valid authority of teachers, supervisors, administrators, other staff members and/or law enforcement authorities. -A student must observe the school dress code. -Possession or ignition of any fireworks or other explosive materials, or ignition of any material causing a fire, and/or misusing fire-protection or safety equipment. -Unauthorized or inappropriate use of any school computer, computer system, computer software, Internet connection or similar school property or system, or the use of such property or system for unauthorized or non-school related purposes. -A student may not use school equipment (i.e. telephones, tape recorders, office equipment, etc.) without the specific permission of a member of school staff. 10

-Unauthorized entrance into any portion of the school facility or aiding or abetting an unauthorized entrance.This includes the pos session and/or use of keys, passwords, or access codes to any of the School’s computers, network system, or wireless system.

-Throwing snowballs, rocks, sticks and/or similar objects.

-Possession and/or use of a laser pointer. -Any action prohibited by any Federal or State law which would indicate that the student presents a danger to any person in the school community or school property. Students may be disciplined for conduct on or off campus or at any school-sponsored activity that endangers persons or property, is disruptive of the educational process of the School, or that violates a policy or regulation of the School. These actions can lead to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or dismissal. Specifically, students who violate a Major School rule can reasonably expect to receive a term of suspension and/or probation, while those who break a lesser (“Other”) rule can usually expect a less serious consequence. Short of expulsion, suspension and probation are the strongest responses a school has to address incidents of concern, and should be reserved for the most serious incidents. Students are expected to understand and adhere to the Code of Conduct at all times.The administration shall, in its sole discretion, 11

determine the nature and severity of offenses against the Code of Conduct and shall discipline students accordingly. The Division Head, working in conjunction with the appropriate teachers, other staff members, and the Head of School, as appropriate, shall determine the level of punishment that is appropriate and in accordance with the disciplinary procedures of the Division. Possible responses to infractions include: counseling by a member of the staff; issuance of a formal warning; the calling of a parent for a conference; requiring an appearance before a disciplinary body; imposition of restrictions on freedom of movement during the school day and/or restrictions on participation in activities; the removal of privileges; detention; probation; suspension; any combination of the above; and such other actions as may be deemed appropriate by school authorities. The School reserves the right to search student lockers, cars, and backpacks and/or deploy surveillance, including electronic or video, at any time and in any location (within reasonable limits) to insure the safety of its grounds, facilities, and community. A violation of the Honor Code or of a Major School Rules and/or a history of serious disciplinary difficulties constitute grounds for probation, suspension, or dismissal from the school. Probation is a specific period of time during which a student is given an opportunity to prove that he or she has learned from past mistakes and that he or she can comply with school regulations in the future. Failure to do so usually leads to suspension or dismissal. Probation also may involve the removal of privileges and/or the imposition of restrictions on participation in activities. The length and precise terms of the probation are determined by the Head of School or by Division Director. In the Upper School, Junior and Senior privileges are not extended to students throughout the duration of the probation period. Suspension is the temporary separation of a student from the school and from all school-related activities for a specific number of days. The purpose of suspension is to compel the individual to reflect on the seriousness of his or her actions and the degree to which he/she values continued membership in our school community. Suspensions may be imposed by the Head of School or by the Division Director for multiple, repeated, or very serious infractions; for violation of probation; or (in 12

combination with probation) for major violations as defined above. Dismissal is the permanent expulsion of a student from the school and it may be effected only by the Head of School. Although extremely difficult for all concerned, such action sometimes is a necessary means of helping a student learn that standards for acceptable behavior must be seen as real and meaningful. The school is committed to the cause that every case must be evaluated on an individual basis, and extenuating circumstances always receive consideration. Nonetheless, the school will expel a student at any point during the year when the Head of School, in consultation with the appropriate advisory group, concludes that the best interests of a student, and/or the school as a whole, require such action. When a student is expelled, he or she may not return to campus or attend school functions for at least the remainder of the academic year.

Dress Code The purpose of a dress code in a school is to minimize distractions and to help students learn to keep themselves neat, modest, and wellgroomed. Concern for personal appearance is an indication of selfrespect and courtesy to others and creates a favorable climate for learning. Final interpretation of the dress code rests with each Division Head and the Headmaster. Coming to school in dress code is considered a minimum expectation for each student each day. Chase attaches as much importance to the spirit as to the letter of the Dress Code and looks to students and families to comply with both.We expect that parents, without exception, will work with School personnel in supporting and enforcing the dress code.The major aim of the dress code is to create within the student body a strong sense of identity with the School and a sense of order that contributes to a healthy learning environment. Classroom teachers speak with students whose attire is not in accord with the dress code. Repeated violations will be referred to the Division Head. Formal dress will be worn by students in all three divisions every Friday and on other designated special event days. On other school days, children may wear formal dress, but it is obligatory on the designated dates. Specific guidelines for daily dress, formal dress and physical education class are included in the summer mailing and on the School web13

site. Occasionally, Dress Down Days are announced. On these days, students may wear clothes other than daily dress code to school and for physical education. Although “casual and comfortable” is the goal, clothing that is ripped, torn, overly revealing, or displays an inappropriate message is not permitted at any time. Please see attachment at the end of this book.

Educational Accommodations Chase Collegiate School is not a special needs school and is not equipped to provide individualized educational programs for students with severe physical, cognitive or mental disabilities. The School does comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable accommodations for known disabilities to assist a student in meeting the academic and behavioral performance standards of the School. Students needing such accommodations should advise the child’s Division Head, and the School will undertake an interactive process, involving the student's parents, health care providers, and School faculty and staff to determine appropriate accommodations. Such accommodations may include restructuring work assignments, and modifying the testing environment. No accommodation shall fundamentally alter the School's educational program, and all students, regardless of disability, will be held to the School's standards for academic achievement and personal conduct.

Maintaining Household Information Family and household information as well as student grades and comments are kept on a secure database known as “PCR.” Parents and students (grades 6 – 12) have access to this information through a secure log-in from the school’s web site. This information is not published to the web or publicly available to anyone other than family members who have both a unique log-in and password. Changes in household information (address, phone contact numbers, etc.) may be submitted to the school through the family’s site. (Changes must be noted and approved by a school official before becoming part of the data base.) Students in grades 6 – 12 use their access to the secure sight to view daily assignments that teachers have posted. When a family or student leaves the

14

school that account is eliminated.

Harassment Policy It is the policy (and one of our Major School Rules) of Chase Collegiate School that any form of harassment is forbidden, whether by students, School employees, or volunteers subject to the control of the School. Students, School employees and volunteers are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful of the rights of students. Any student, employee or volunteer who engages in conduct prohibited by this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.This policy prohibits sexual harassment as well as other forms of harassment based on discrimination, in accordance with our non-discrimination statement.Therefore, this harassment policy includes but is not limited to conduct harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or age.While it is difficult to define harassment precisely, it includes unwelcome, hostile, or offensive conduct that discriminates against an individual or interferes with his or her right to a safe environment at the School. Harassment includes conduct and situations when: 1. 2.

1. 2. 3.

submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used and/or threatened to be used as a basis for making any educational or employment decision; or such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. Although not an exhaustive list, the following are examples of the type of conduct prohibited by this policy against harassment: Statements or other conduct indicating that a student’s submission to, or rejection of, sexual overtures or advances will affect the student’s grades and/or other academic progress. Unwelcome attention and/or advances of a sexual nature, including requests for sexual favors, verbal comments, leering and physical touching. Display of sexually suggestive objects, or use of sexually suggestive, 15

4.

obscene, or discriminatory comments, invitations, letters, notes, slurs, jokes, pictures, cartoons, epithets or gestures. Language or behavior that is hostile, insulting, or inflammatory regarding a person’s race, ethnicity, religion, or gender, including insults based on gender stereotypes.

Harassment detracts significantly from our respectful community of learners.This policy prohibits all verbal or physical conduct that is reasonably considered to create a hostile environment for another individual at the School.The School does not tolerate any type of harassment under any circumstances. A person who believes he/she is or has been the victim of harassment is encouraged to report it to the Assistant Head, Division Head or the Head of School. He or she will be asked to make a report in writing. In appropriate circumstances, due to the age of the student making the complaint, a parent or school administrator may be permitted to complete a report on the student’s behalf. Each report will be immediately and thoroughly investigated. At the conclusion of any investigation, the Head of School will determine the validity of the report and the action to be taken. Such action will be consistent with Divisional and School policy and may include a formal apology, suspension, dismissal and/or referral to legal authorities. The School will not tolerate any reprisals or retaliation that occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of harassment, and/or participation in a harassment investigation. Any such reprisals or retaliation will result in disciplinary action against the retaliator, up to and including dismissal from the School.

Health Center/Nurse The nurse is on duty daily. Parents must complete a medication dispensing form and give the prescriptive or non-prescriptive medication to the nurse so it can be kept and dispensed to the student in the Health Center according to directions. Students are not permitted to have any medication in their possession. Parents are requested to report to the nurse any illness in their family that might be contagious. Children who have a fever, stomach virus, or other contagious illness should remain symptom free for twenty four hours before returning to school. Further, parents are responsible for completing all required 16

health forms and for arranging required physical examinations before classes begin.The physical exam is required of all entering students and of all returning students every other year except those Middle and Upper School students who are participating in athletics, for whom it is required annually. Connecticut health regulations require that all children have the following immunizations before attending classes: measles, rubella, polio, mumps, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis.

Inclement Weather/School Closings In the event of inclement weather, the School usually follows the local public school decision regarding cancellation of classes, delayed openings and early dismissal. However, the School reserves the right to make independent decisions in this regard. A selection of local radio and television stations (WFSB-3,WVIT-30, and WTNH-8) announce cancellations, delayed openings and early dismissals. Parents are encouraged to listen carefully when weather conditions appear uncertain. Information is also posted on the School’s website. Although the interruptions caused by inclement weather do have an effect on the planned academic program, the faculty is able to compensate by rearranging material and rescheduling time to keep the curriculum on course. Should we experience an unusual number of closings, the administration reserves the right to edit the school calendar.

Lunch, Snacks and Nutrition A balanced, nutritional luncheon meal is provided to students every day as part of the School’s tuition. Daily menu items include but are not limited to a salad bar, fruit basket, soup, various breads and sandwich meats, and a hot entrée with vegetables. Parents and guests are welcome at lunch, however we ask that you advise your child’s administrative assistant at least 24 hours prior to your visit. A snack is provided to all students during the school day. It is not designed to be a substitute for a meal. Students are not to bring snacks or other food to School or to the Dining Room. Dietary needs dictated by medical conditions should be made known to the school nurse and the Division Head so that reasonable accommodations can be made. Every effort is made by our faculty and staff to make our campus “nut free.” Nuts or products made with or including nuts should not be sup17

plied to students for field trips, class celebrations, or otherwise be brought onto campus.

Parents’ Association/Volunteers The Parents’ Association supports the overall mission and values of Chase Collegiate School as it strives for excellence in education. It endeavors to enhance the academic, cultural and social development of its students. The Parents’ Association is committed to fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose among all constituencies – administration, faculty, parents, students, trustees and local community. It strives to protect the tradition, while encouraging innovation and supporting the continued growth of the school and its students. All parents who have children enrolled in Chase Collegiate are members of the Parents’ Association. Members are encouraged to volunteer in areas where they will most benefit the School and students. Meetings of the Parents’ Association take place once a month by division. All members of the Parents’ Association are welcomed to attend any meeting. The list of Parents’ Association Officers and Class Sponsors can be found on the Chase website.

Parking and Traffic Procedures Morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up are busy times on the campus. For the SAFETY of all students, we ask that these procedures be firmly adhered to. LOWER SCHOOL: Parents of students in grades Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 5 and Middle and Upper School students who carpool with Lower School students and enter the West Entrance (Chase Parkway) will take an immediate right hand turn and follow straight along the driveway to the Lower School carpool lane. Parents who enter the East Entrance (across from Exit 18) will follow driveway and take left into the carpool lane. Please wait in line and remain in your vehicle while in the driveway to ensure the safety of your child. Exit onto Oronoke Road AM drop off is by Camp Hall. Afternoon pickup for grades K-5 is at Camp Hall and Pre-K3 and PreK-4 is at the Pre-School building. MIDDLE SCHOOL: Grades 6 – 8 parents who enter the campus by the West Entrance – Chase Parkway will make an immediate right hand turn to enter the carpool lane. Turn left and follow toward the Centennial Library to 18

drop-off or pick-up a student. Parents who enter from the East Entrance: (across from the Exit 18 ramp) will follow the driveway lane around the Main Parking Lot and then follow toward the Centennial Library to drop-off or pick-up a student. Please wait in line and in your vehicle in the driveway to ensure the safety of all students. Following pick-up, vehicles may either turn left to exit at the Chase Parkway/West Main Street traffic light or proceed straight to exit at the East Entrance traffic light opposite the Exit 18 ramp. Caution: For safety reasons, parents should not drop students off outside of the carpool lanes and have students cross traffic. UPPER SCHOOL: Grades 9-12 parents and students use the Goss Field House parking lot for drop-off, pick-up, and parking. Entering and exiting campus should occur at the traffic light opposite the Exit 18 ramp. Take a left upon entering campus and follow driveway to the Goss field house. The access road to the west of the Upper School is for use by school personnel or emergency response teams only. Buses: All buses enter campus and proceed to the courtyard in front of the Saint Margaret’s Hall where drop-off and pick-up occurs. No other vehicles are allowed in this courtyard area. If you wish to bring your child into his or her classroom, please park your vehicle in the Main Parking Lot and proceed safely into the School.The area behind the Kindergarten building is reserved for staff members who work in this area of the campus. Kindergarten parents should use the Main Parking Lot.

Payment of Bills/Re-enrollment The Business Office establishes the schedule for tuition payments. Questions concerning the monthly statement should be directed to the Business Office. Payments more than thirty days past due are subject to a late payment fee, and the School reserves the right to require the student to withdraw. Delinquent accounts will also jeopardize enrollment at the School for the subsequent year, the determination of final grades, graduation participation, and financial aid awards. In January, the Admissions Office sends out re-enrollment contracts to the parents of all students in good standing, provided that the family has met all financial obligations to the School. It is expected that stu19

dents have demonstrated success and that reasonable projections about continued success can be made. Careful review of students’ progress is made following the third, fifth, and eighth grade years. The following information is used in assessing the likelihood of a child’s success in Chase Collegiate School’s program: - teacher observation, - the student’s record of academic progress in all subject areas, - determination that the child is reading at grade level, - a review of any standardized or psycho-educational testing results, and - the consistency of parental support of a child’s learning. Summer work may be a condition of continuation at the School. That decision is arrived at in consultation with teachers, the Division Head, and parents. The School believes that a positive and constructive working relationship between the School and a student's parents (or other persons responsible for the student) is essential to the fulfillment of the School's mission. The School reserves the right to deny continued or re-enrollment to any student if the School reasonably concludes that the actions of a parent (or other person responsible for the student) are inconsistent with the maintenance of such a positive and constructive working relationship, or if the School concludes that the actions of the parent (or other person responsible for the student) interfere with the School's accomplishment of its educational purposes.

Safe Homes Safe Homes is a Chase Collegiate School sponsored program. The parents who have signed the pledge have vowed to supervise youths in their homes and to not knowingly serve or allow alcohol to be consumed by anyone under the legal drinking age, or to allow the use of drugs or any other illegal substances by anyone. The Safe Homes program is an important part of the parent and student body. It will not work if taken lightly. We must communicate and be AWARE. The School is not responsible for private parties or activities planned by students and/or parents. Parents are always advised to confirm with parents who host students that adult chaperones will be present and responsible for activities not sponsored by the School. A Parent’s Pledge for Safe Homes 20

• I will SUPERVISE youth gatherings in my home. • I will not KNOWINGLY ALLOW parties or gathering in my home when I am not home. • I will not KNOWINGLY SERVE or ALLOW alcohol to be CONSUMBED by under-age guests, and I will not ALLOW drugs or any other illegal substances to be CONSUMED by anyone. • I have DISCUSSED this pledge with my/our child/children. Families who participate in the Safe Homes program are indicated in the School Directory with a small symbol.

The School Store – The Dugout School supplies, and school/spirit clothing items are sold in the Dugout. All purchases can be paid with cash, check or charged to a school account.The Dugout is located on the ground floor of the St. Margaret’s Hall and is operated by parent and student volunteers.

Smoke-Free Campus Chase Collegiate School is a smoke-free campus. Smoking or the use of tobacco products is not permitted.

Student Support Services Student Support Services provides academic and social-emotional support for students throughout the three divisions. Learning specialists and a school counselor staff this department. The team is interdisciplinary, which allows for the broadest consideration of a student’s present difficulty and the most considered triage of that student. Referrals to a member of the department are generated by students themselves, their parents, teachers or administrators. When a student is referred to the department, a member of the team confers with the referring source to determine the nature of the difficulty. Students are, when deemed appropriate, then observed within the classroom, conversations are initiated with teachers and academic records may be reviewed. Members of the department, with consent from a parent, may informally assess a child to determine the nature of an academic difficulty, but all psychoeducational evaluations are outsourced and the parent initiates this process with guidance from a member of the team. Testing may be pursued privately or through the PPT process in the town of residence of 21

the student. Upon completion of an evaluation, the results are reviewed and recommendations considered and implemented as considered reasonable and possible within the context of the School’s curriculum. Learning specialists may provide individual sessions to address organizational issues, study skills or academic remediation as recommended in the evaluation. A member of the department also teaches daily a Language Skills class for seventh and eighth graders who need language support. Upper School students may access the Learning Center on a regularly scheduled or a as needed basis. The School counselor is available for short-term counseling or crisis intervention but students needing ongoing therapy are required, to seek counseling outside of the School.

Technology Policy The School maintains and makes available technology to students and faculty for a wide range of applications. All users of the campus network and equipment are reminded that with access comes responsibility.The workstations and related peripherals are School property, and unlike home computers, which can be personally configured, the School computers are set up for the use of the entire community, not individuals. School technology is not to be used in ways that might adversely affect the work, privacy, and access of other users. These computer systems are business and educational tools. As such, they are made available to students in the School for education related uses only.

Terms and Conditions: • Access to computers is provided to the School community as a tool to complete school related projects and assignments only. Priority will be given to scheduled classes in the computer labs. • Technology users may not install software of any type, including games, to individual computers or to the school network. Only software licensed to the school may be used on any campus computer. • Deletions, additions, or any modifications to the Windows desk top are not allowed. Users may not modify any hardware or operating systems settings that would change the appearance or operation of the computers or network. • All technology users must respect the work of other students 22

and faculty by not accessing, modifying, or deleting the files of others. • Optical scanners are provided for materials directly related to school assignments only. Students may not scan or print any other materials. • Technology users must respect copyright laws that protect software owners, artists, and writers. Plagiarism in any form will not be tolerated. This applies to all forms of electronic media including, but not limited to electronic encyclopedias, image files, and sound files. • While using the Internet and e-mail systems, students and adults must follow the accepted rules of network etiquette and conduct themselves in a responsible, ethical, and polite manner. Students may not transmit, receive, submit, or publish any defamatory, abusive, obscene, threatening, harassing or potentially dangerous material. Any user encountering such material whether intentionally or not, must notify a teacher or supervisor immediately. If no one is available at the time, the user is obligated to sign off the Internet and/or e-mail system. • Technology users will minimize the use of the printers and print only school-related materials, except with explicit permission. • Food or drink should not be brought into computer labs or to the desktop of computers on campus. Equipment must not be used in a dangerous manner that could result in damage. • Internet use may be monitored and/or restricted according to the policies outlined by the school administration. Policies are subject to review; users will be notified about any changes to these policies. • Technology users will not use the computer systems for any illegal purpose. Violation of any of the regulations above shall be considered a violation of the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct and may result in disciplinary actions that include but are not limited to removal of all computer privileges, suspension or expulsion.

23

Monitoring Students are responsible for good behavior on School computer systems just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Communications on the computer systems are often public in nature and general school rules for behavior and communications apply. It is expected that users will comply with the School's standards and will act in a responsible and legal manner, at all times in accordance with the School's standards, and state and federal laws. It is important that students and parents understand that the School, as the owner of the computer systems, intends to monitor and review the use of these computer systems in an effort to ensure that users engage only in appropriate uses. The School will monitor and review in a limited fashion, but will do so as needed to maximize utilization of the computer systems for educational purposes. As part of monitoring and reviewing, the School will retain the capacity to bypass any individual password of a student or other user. The system's security aspects, such as personal passwords and the message delete function for E-Mail, can be bypassed for these purposes. The School's ability to monitor and review is not restricted or neutralized by these devices. The monitor and review process also includes oversight of Internet site access and of document downloading and printing. Therefore, all users must be aware that they should not have any expectation of personal privacy in the use of these computer systems.

Reporting Misconduct Anyone who is aware of problems with, or misuse of these computer systems, or has a question regarding the proper use of these computer systems, should report this to his or her teacher or Division Head immediately. Most importantly, the School urges any student who receives any harassing, threatening, intimidating or other improper message through the computer system to report this immediately. It is the School's policy that no student should be required to tolerate such treatment, regardless of the identity of the sender of the message. Please report these events!

Telephone and Cell Phone Use Policy With permission, students may use a telephone located in Administrative Offices. It should only be used to call family, settle transportation issues, or emergencies. 24

Some parents today view their child's cell phone as an important link for family security and convenience. Some students today view their cell phones the way many children a generation ago viewed their bicycle as an instrument of independence and as a way to connect with friends. Chase's policy on mobile phones recognizes both impulses and makes appropriate allowances to possess a wireless communications device while on school property or in attendance at a school function.The policy requires that phones be shut off at all times while a student is in a building or engaged on a field trip, but students can carry their phones in their lockers, purses, backpacks, athletic bags or pockets. If a phone is used during the school day anywhere other than outside or in designated interior spots, or if a mobile phone rings during class, disciplinary consequences may occur. "Forgetting" to turn off the cell phone is not an excuse. If an unusually urgent call during school hours is expected, a student may leave their cell phone with the Division Administrative Assistant. No use of cell phone photographs is permitted during the school day. At Chase, the policy permits the legitimate use of mobile phones while preventing possible temptations to cheat in class and photographic invasions of privacy. Chase reserves the prerogative of changing this policy at any time as technology advances. • Use of a cell phone during a test (i.e. text messaging) will be considered cheating and a breach of our Honor Code; disciplinary action will be taken. • If a student has a cell phone taken by a teacher more than once, the Dean of Students or Division Head will contact a parent and the parent must retrieve the phone on campus. • The cell phone policy differs among the three divisions in the following ways: Lower School Students may bring a cell phone to school, but it must be kept in the “off ” setting and placed in the student’s locker during the school day and any school related events. Phone calls may be placed and received from the Lower School Office. There is no cellular phone use during After Care. All calls may be placed and received from the phone in the After Care classroom or from the School provided cell phone. 25

Transcripts and School Records Student records are maintained in the Division Office. Contents include admissions applications, transcripts from previous schools, progress reports, and report cards. Access to student files is restricted to faculty and staff within the Division and to the Head of School. Due to the confidential nature of medical records, those are maintained in the Health Center with access restricted to the nurse and the Head of School. Student records are available for parental review. Parents who would like to review their child’s file must submit their request in writing with 24 hours notice to arrange an appointment with the Division Head. A request that records be sent to another school must be sent in writing to the student’s Divisional Office. In an effort to provide a safe and secure environment, parents or guardians may be required to provide the School with copies or official court documents designating official guardianship or custody of a child. This information is kept strictly confidential and is only used to clarify communication and travel arrangements for individual children. A child’s name on all official school documents and public listings will be consistent with his/her name as identified in those records. Every Chase Collegiate School family has secure access to their child’s/children’s academic records and household information through the School’s website. Middle and Upper School students are also given unique and secure log-ins and passwords so that they may view a calendar of current assignments and their academic record. 26

LOWER SCHOOL

Middle School Cellular phones must be kept in the “off ” setting during the school day and during any school related events. Students may use their cell phones in the Middle School office during the hours of 8:00AM and 3PM. Upper School Cell phone and other communication device use is not permitted in school buildings except in administrative offices.We expect the use of these devices during the school day to be limited in length and not interfering with the sanctity of the academic environment on campus ; ‘walking and talking’ is not permitted.

LOWER SCHOOL Policies & Procedures A Message from Patricia Belle Calcagni, The Lower School Head The Lower School Mission Statement After School Care Program Arrival/Dismissal Attendance Back-to-School Night Birthday Party Celebrations Buses Communication Decorum Field Trips Homework Intramural Program Lunch, Snacks and Nutrition Morning Meeting Nurse/Health Center Parent-Teacher Conferences Progress Reports/Trimester Reports Recess/Outdoor Play Remember: Respect, Responsibility and Resourcefulness Student Support Services Supplies Teacher/Classroom Assignments Telephones/Cellular phones Testing and Assessment

27

The Handbook is designed to assist parents who have children in our Lower School. It explains policies and procedures to help your child. Every school day will be centered on our School’s mission and our Lower School motto: Respect, Responsibility and Resourcefulness. We will continue to focus on the attributes that make our Lower School so special; our efforts are centered on helping each child develop solid academic skills, self-awareness and emotional resiliency. Our Lower School is a place where children can take risks, be imaginative, and learn how to use their abilities. In our organized, positive and nurturing environment, children and teachers share school days filled with the excitement of learning. As 2008 begins, our Lower School faculty is engaged in fulfilling our goals for the current school year and planning for an exciting and invigorating 2008-2009 school year.We thank you for enriching our lives each day, and we are committed to making your child’s year in Chase Collegiate School a terrific one. Communication is the keystone for your child’s educational journey. Please read this Handbook carefully and refer to it during the year. Call me if I can answer any questions about the information it contains.

The Lower School Mission Statement The Lower School at Chase Collegiate School is a nurturing community dedicated to the education of young children in the independent school tradition. As educators, we guide the development of the whole child and respect individual differences. Together we build a solid foundation for learning, a sense of personal responsibility and a connection to the world. 28

LOWER SCHOOL

Message from the Lower School Head

Lower School

Policies and Procedures After School Care Program An after-school program in Camp Hall is available for children in grades pre-kindergarten through eight from 3:10 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. The program offers a combination of educational and recreational activities and provides a nurturing and safe setting beyond the normal school day.These activities are coordinated by the Director of After School Programs. Fees are assessed at an hourly rate and will appear on a monthly statement. Lower and Middle School students may not remain on campus after school in an unsupervised activity or location. Students must be picked up as soon as their scheduled activity is concluded. A child who has not been picked up ten minutes after the activity ends will be escorted to the After School Program by the supervising adult and will be charged at the hourly supervision rate.

Arrival/Dismissal Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and end at 3:10 p.m. Students who arrive between 7:15 and 7:45 a.m. should report to the Main Lobby of Camp Hall. Students will be dismissed from there to their classrooms. Students arriving after 7:45 a.m. should go directly to the classrooms. In grades 1-5, children who arrive at their classrooms after 8:00 a.m. are marked tardy and should verify their arrival with the Lower School Administrative Assistant. Parents are asked to park in the Main Parking Lot only to escort their children to the classrooms. Parents may leave children at designated drop-off points between 7:45 and 8:00 a.m. A faculty member will meet students who are dropped off during that time period. Students who ride buses will be discharged in the upper lot and walk to the buildings as a group. Safety dictates all traffic rules. At dismissal, Lower School students are escorted to buses/car pool areas by the faculty. Parents are asked to remain in their cars in the line; children will be brought to their car. Students are not allowed to walk to the parking lots unaccompanied. Middle School siblings may wait with Lower School children at car pool and will be escorted to

29

Attendance Parents are asked to call the Lower School office (236-9510) prior to 9:00 a.m. if their child is absent.We can arrange for homework assignments for absent students. After 2:00 p.m. work will be available on the table in the Camp Hall Lobby. Students will be permitted to make up work missed due to illness, a family emergency, religious observances, or other legitimate reasons as determined by the Head of Lower School. If parents know of an absence in advance, they must send that information, in writing, to the Head of Lower School. The school calendar for the upcoming year is sent with re-enrollment contracts. Families are responsible for checking the calendar for dates that school is in session. We request that vacations be scheduled during the provided holidays so that they do not interfere with the child’s regular school schedule. We believe that there is no substitute for a child being actively present in school, and we cannot duplicate experiences or lessons that are missed. When the Lower School Head has been advised in advance of a planned absence, the Lower School Head will decide if assignments may be completed while the student is away from school. Students with 20 or more absences may jeopardize their promotion to the next grade or their enrollment contract renewal.

30

LOWER SCHOOL

cars as needed. At the beginning of the year, parents will be asked to designate those adults with whom their child may leave school. Changes to those arrangements must be received in writing or by phone or e-mail by the Division Office no later than 9:00 a.m. To email your changes: [email protected] or [email protected]. Phone messages should be left at 203-236-9510. Unless they are enrolled in the After School Program or are with their parents or a faculty member, students may not remain on campus past 3:30 p.m. Parents must understand that the School cannot be responsible for students who are not attending a supervised after-school activity. After 3:30 p.m. children will be directed to the After School Program and a fee assigned.

Back-to-School Night This special night in the early fall has been designed just for parents; children do not attend this event. It is an informative evening that that focuses on classroom-based sessions. Usually scheduled for late September, it is a time to talk with teachers about classroom routines, curriculum, texts/materials and special projects.There is also time to hear from our subject area specialists about their programs and plans. Parents are asked to make every effort to join us.

Birthday Party Celebrations A birthday celebration is an important event in a child’s life, and we feel it is important to include everyone in the grade in these special celebrations. For celebrations outside of the school day, invitations must be sent via the U. S. Mail. While mailing lists other than The School Directory cannot be provided, the Division Head would be happy to address and mail invitations to Lower School students whose addresses do not appear in the Directory. For those parties that begin at the close of the school day, we ask that children be picked up as usual and transported to the event by their parents. Please do not bring gifts into Lower School buildings. Recognition of birthdays happens at our Lower School Morning Meeting as well as in individual classrooms. We ask that you consult your child's teacher before making any plans. Children may bring in a small treat to share with their classmates. Fruit, cheese, small packages of pretzels, popcorn, cookies or cupcakes are appropriate. Please do not bring goody bags or large portions of other types of food. Every effort is made by our faculty and staff to make our campus “nut free.” Nuts or products made with or including nuts should not be supplied to students for field trips, class celebrations, or otherwise be brought onto campus.

Buses Children riding buses are expected to remain seated and observe all rules for good conduct that apply in the classroom. At the discretion of the Lower School Head, misconduct on the bus will result in the loss of bus privileges. Please contact the Business Office for information regarding bus schedules and fees. 31

Communication between home and school is a vital part of our community. Lower School telephone, voice mail, fax and e-mail addresses are printed in the school directory and can be found on the School web site. Although we welcome your calls and messages, please understand that teachers may not access their voice/e-mail until after the close of the school day. Therefore, all changes to dismissal and/or child care arrangements must be received by the Lower School Administrative Assistant by phone or in writing or via e-mail prior to 9:00 a.m. In grades PreK through grade 3, a Gray Envelope is sent home with your child’s work on Wednesday of each week. Please sign the envelope and return it to school each week on Thursday morning. A weekly letter from the Lower School Head is sent electronically along with information on upcoming programs, newsletters, and classroom news. Parents’ Association news can be found on the website.

Decorum Students are reminded regularly that running, shouting, or loud conversations in the building are disruptive to the environment. Chewing gum is not allowed at School. Good table manners and acceptable social conversation at lunch are required.

Dress Code See policy in the All-school section pages 13-14.

LOWER SCHOOL

Communication

peanuts or peanut products may be brought on field trips. In Pre-kindergarten - Grade 3, parents are welcomed as chaperones, but it is important to note we cannot always honor all requests to accompany your child’s class on a trip. The selection of chaperones for individual trips is left to the discretion of the classroom teachers.

Homework Homework is one component of a child’s education. Homework reinforces the concepts taught in class, encourages personal responsibility, develops time management skills and helps to prepare children for future academic endeavors. The Lower School faculty believes it is part of a child’s journey through school. Although no formal homework is given in Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten, we do encourage regular opportunities for reading to and with your children. In grades 1-5, homework is assigned in addition to the expectation of shared and independent reading. For guidelines pertaining to make up work, parents are referred to the section Attendance. Lower School practices include two types of homework as follows: Short-term assignments are to be completed by the next day or during the week. They reinforce recent instruction and provide teachers with immediate feedback about student progress. Long-term assignments or projects are spread over a number of days or weeks. This type is outlined and explained in class and may be worked on in school or at home. Long-term projects also include those initiated by a student as an Independent Study Project.

Field Trips Field trips constitute an important part of the Lower School program and all students are strongly encouraged to participate. In considering field trips for classrooms or grades, teachers take great care to evaluate the value of, and the contribution made by, a trip to the curriculum. Time, mode of transportation and cost are also factors in our decision to engage in field experiences with the children. Trips are noted on the monthly school calendars. However, sometimes circumstances beyond our control necessitate a change of time or date. Individual permission forms will be sent home in advance of each trip and must be returned by the date specified. No 32

Intramural Program Chase offers a Lower School Intramural Sports Program. All students in grades 3, 4 and 5 are welcome to take part in this coed team experience. Designed for children of all abilities, the program offers players the opportunity to learn technical skills and sportsmanship as well as engage in healthy exercise in this friendly competition environment. Each year the type of games vary, but may include soccer, basketball, capture-the-flag, bowling, tennis, kickball etc. Information about registration for the intramural program is sent home via the grey envelope. Any parents interested in volunteering may contact the Director of the Intramural Program at 236-9482. 33

Nurse/Health Center

Lunch is served to Lower School students (K-5) in the Garthwait Dining Room each day. A balanced, nutritional meal is served family style, including a salad bar, fruit basket, soup, various breads, and a hot entrée. Students in Pre-kindergarten bring their own lunches and eat in the classroom with their teachers. In the dining room, children are seated at mixed-age tables headed by a faculty member.Table assignments are made by the Head of Lower School and are changed every three weeks so that our sense of community can be strengthened. Nutritious snacks are provided for all students by the Dining Service and delivered to the classrooms every day. Each teacher designates a break time and students are encouraged to enjoy the daily selection.There is no additional charge for these snacks, or for those offered children in the After School Program. Students are not permitted to bring snacks from home. We welcome parents and guests at lunch; however we ask that you contact the Lower School Administrative Assistant by phone or in writing or via e-mail with 24 hours notice. Dietary needs dictated by medical conditions should be made known to the school nurse and the Division Head so that accommodations can be made. Nuts or products made with or including nuts should not be supplied to students for field trips, class celebrations, or otherwise be brought onto campus.

The nurse is on duty daily. Parents must complete a medication dispensing form and give the prescriptive or non-prescriptive medication to the nurse so it can be kept and dispensed to the student in the Health Center according to directions. Students are not permitted to have any medication in their possession. Parents are requested to report to the nurse any illness in their family that might be contagious. Children who have a fever, stomach virus, or other contagious illness should remain symptom free for twenty four hours before returning to school. Further, parents are responsible for completing all required health forms and for arranging required physical examinations before classes begin. In Lower School, if a child is ill he/she is sent to the Division Head who will telephone the nurse and she will come to the classroom. If she cannot, an adult will escort the child to the Health Center.When warranted, the nurse will telephone the parent and request the parent come to take the child home. The child may not call the parent directly to be taken home. Connecticut health regulations require that all children have the following immunizations before attending classes: measles, rubella, polio, mumps, hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. To assure the safety of the students, the foods offered in Garthwait Dining Hall and for snacks during the day are “nut free” to the best of our knowledge. In order to enforce our policy of strict avoidance, we are requesting that you do not send in snacks for classroom activities, parties and/or school events that may contain nuts, traces of nuts or nut products. Please read carefully the ingredient list on store-bought foods, especially baked goods and candy. If you are unsure about any of the ingredients, please call the nurse before sending in the food.

Morning Meeting One morning each week, we gather as a division to share stories, tell tales, recognize birthdays, sing songs and laugh together.This is a tradition in Lower School, and it has proven a wonderful way of celebrating individual and group successes.We begin with the Pledge of Allegiance and our gathering song, Simple Gifts. Students present a variety of completed classroom activities or contribute some special news. Adults from the wider school community often attend and share happenings from across campus. We exit singing and ready to begin our classroom activities. Morning Meeting is a constructive way to engender a sense of community. Parents are welcome to join us.

34

LOWER SCHOOL

Lunch, Snacks and Nutrition

Parent-Teacher Conferences Parent-Teacher Conferences, both formal and informal, are valuable opportunities for communication between school and home. Informal conferences are conducted on a regular basis and teachers welcome your telephone call, e-mail and/or request for a personal meeting. Throughout the year, three formal conference days serve to maintain an ongoing dialogue and support the written reports that are 35

Progress Reports For the fall and winter terms, student progress is reported at our scheduled parent-teacher conferences. Students in Grades 3, 4, and 5 attend part of the conference with their parents. At the close of each term, teachers prepare a comprehensive Trimester Report for every child. These reports document student progress throughout the trimester and are geared to reflect mastery of core expectations as well as personal growth.The format of the Trimester Report includes expectation checklists followed by topic narratives, updates on work habits, progress on goals and summaries from each of the subject area specialists. In Pre-kindergarten – Grade 4, our program is a non-graded one. In the third trimester of fourth grade, children receive grades on projects, tests and some assignments.This serves as an introduction to the system used in Grade 5 where children receive numerical grades. This is consistent with the Middle School program. Throughout the year we emphasize growth and personal responsibility, and teachers conference with students regularly about their work and about individual/personal goals.

Recess/Outdoor Play We consider recess and outdoor play an important part of social development. It is during the supervised but unstructured play at recess time that children develop successful peer skills, learn to compromise and understand the value of negotiation. Children are observed in their play from a short distance at all times and are assisted with conflict resolution as needed. Within the safe confines of our campus and playgrounds, children are granted the distance they need as they learn to get along with each other. At every grade level, children go to recess every day possible – even cold days. Please dress your child for the changeable New 36

LOWER SCHOOL

sent home at the close of each trimester. Conference appointments are scheduled by the Lower School Administrative Assistant with call dates and times published in late summer, fall and mid-winter. All families take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to know their child’s teacher better and to remain abreast of their child’s progress in school.

England weather. All children will go out for recess unless your physician or the school nurse advises us otherwise.

Respect, Responsibility and Resourcefulness In conjunction with the Chase Collegiate School Mission Statement, we care about how we treat each other and work to engender a common view of ethical behavior. Our guiding theme of Respect, Responsibility and Resourcefulness helps to move us from mission to action. As teachers and learners, we are expected to be civil in our relations with others and take them seriously. Everyone is expected to be a productive, contributing member of the Lower School community and conduct himself or herself in a way that is open, fair and trustworthy. We acknowledge the needs of others, respect the truth, accept responsibility for our decisions and demonstrate caring and compassion. Students are encouraged to be courteous, prepared and involved in their own learning.

Student Support Services In Lower School, we understand that all children do not learn in the same way or at the same pace, and that all learners bring individual strengths to their school experience. Academic success provides children with opportunities to build genuine self-esteem and the responsibility for achieving that success is shared among teachers, students and parents. All teachers endeavor to structure lessons and classroom-based activities that celebrate individual gifts and support areas of weakness. However, some children may need additional assistance to achieve their highest potential. A Lower School teacher, who may suggest academic support for a child, would first discuss the matter with parents and the Division Head.

Supplies A list of necessary school supplies is sent to each family in August, and is posted on the School website. These supplies should be carried to school on the first day of classes. The School provides textbooks and workbooks for all students in Lower School. 37

School supplies, spirit items, and athletic clothing are sold in the “Dugout,” which is located on the ground floor level of the St. Margaret’s Hall. Purchases can be paid for with cash or be charged to the parent account.

MIDDLE SCHOOL Policies & Procedures

Teacher/Classroom Assignments

Telephones and Cellular Phones See complete policy in All-school section page 25.

Testing and Assessment Throughout the year, student learning and progress is measured in a variety of ways. It is our firm belief that great teaching and great assessment go hand-in-hand. Teachers use assessment results to modify or enrich instruction. In Lower School, we strive to balance our assessments to compare individual achievement with individual potential and age/grade achievement. Teachers use various methods to document student success. In addition to publisher-produced tests and developmental assessments, we have expanded our use of portfolios, projects and teacher observation techniques. We have created our own literacy assessments, core expectation checklists and learner profiles to better understand how our young students learn best. Students in grades three, four, and five participate in a testing program developed by the Educational Records Bureau. This standardized instrument measures student performance in language arts and mathematics. Results are sent to parents in late summer.

38

Message from the Middle School Head Academics and Honor Code Academic Honesty Cheating Plagiarism Education of students Procedures Penalties Academic Probation Advisor After School Care Program Attendance Buses Communication Counselor Decorum Disciplinary Procedures Dress Code Early Dismissal/Absences Field Trips “Flex” and “Munch” Grades Homework Honor Roll Lunch and Nutrition Middle School Meeting Nurse/Health Center Reporting System and Schedule Standardized Testing Supplies Tardiness Telephones/Cellular Phones

MIDDLE SCHOOL

The placement of students is a most important task and each year teachers and administrators work diligently to make appropriate class assignments for the coming term. Our decisions are made with great care and are based on a number of criteria including: teaching/learning style, girl/boy ratios, projected enrollment and the need to promote or discourage relationships that contribute to, or detract from, a child’s development. In short, class rosters are designed to provide the best possible grouping for each and every child.

39

Middle School

Message from the Middle School Head

Policies and Procedures Academics and the Honor Code

John N. Carpenter Head of the Middle School

40

The School’s academic program is the backbone of the institution.Teachers are prepared to work with families throughout the school year to help students meet the academic standards of the School.Teachers are available for extra help during free times during the school day as well as before or after school. Promotion to the next grade and an invitation to return for the next academic year are based on the previous year’s performance.The School is in regular contact with a family if there is a question about a contract being offered for the coming year. The Honor Code Honor is the understanding and practice of what is right and just. It fosters the courage to uphold these values in public and in private. It is integrity and good judgment. Honor is pride in oneself as well as respect for others. Honor is an unspoken and unwrittenway of living that is centered on doing what is right. It is not an individual way of life, but a way of life of a community. An honorable person takes responsibility for his or her conduct. The purpose of the Honor Code is to reinforce the positive values of Chase Collegiate School. It creates a community of trust among students and faculty by establishing a set of guidelines for everyone to follow.The Honor Code is a form of student self-discipline and is used as a teaching toll in the Middle School towards a goal of greater responsibility and freedom.The Honor Code enhances our community strives to instill virtue in students to carry with them throughout life. At the beginning of each school year, during the first Middle School Meeting every Middle School student will take the following pledge: On my honor, I pledge my academic integrity, honesty, respect, and sportsmanship to the Chase Collegiate School community, and I will encourage others to do the same. As a member of this community I will not lie, cheat, steal or demonstrate cruelty in any form.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

As with other parts of the handbook this section is designed to be a resource for Middle School families.The information is organized alphabetically by Middle School terminology, the goal of this section is to help families anticipate questions and issues that arise during the school year, you will find many of these policies dovetail guidelines oulined in the first section of the Handbook. At Chase Collegiate School, we expect that every member of the community will appreciate this document as a helpful guide to the Middle School years. However, the handbook can only clarify the mission and ethos of the school; you will find your child’s teachers living and breathing the mission and this handbook everyday.They are willing and anxious to talk about our program and commitment to children and their families, and they are knowledgeable about the subject matter that is taught as well as the joys and tribulations of these young people.The Middle School faculty encourage you to engage us in those conversations.

41

On my honor, I pledge that this is my own work. This shorter, affirmative pledge is understood to convey the meaning of the entire pledge made each year by students at Chase Collegiate School Middle and Upper Schools. Throughout the year, in classes, advisories and Middle School Meetings, the Honor Code is used as a reference and guide for students to mature as a member of our community. As they move toward the Upper School, students use the Honor Code as the backbone of governing the student body and making decisions about how to promote and uphold honor everyday.

• Copying all or part of assigned work from print and/or electronic sources without acknowledging the source through footnotes or adequate means of citation and proper quote structure; rewording the writing of others without giving proper credit; • Submitting the same piece of work in more than one class without the permission of the teacher. Plagiarism can be avoided if one is careful to do the following: • Put someone else’s words or ideas in quotation marks and follow with a citation that indicates the source; • Summarize or paraphrase in one’s own words and follow with a citation; • Understand and follow specific guidelines for citation in each discipline, as explained in writing by the instructor.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

On exams and other student work requiring the Pledge, the following shorter version may substitute for the entire pledge:

Academic Honesty One of the School’s primary missions is to educate students to make sound moral and ethical judgments. Following the honor code as a method to teach students to be independent thinkers and workers, the School expects that any help they receive is appropriate and acknowledged: that in all areas of academic life students will do their own work, giving credit to the ideas and help of others.

If you are unsure whether or not to cite a quotation or an idea, do the following: • Ask your teacher to explain and clarify well in advance of completing your final draft; • Go ahead and cite your source(s) if you have even the slightest doubt. You can always delete a citation later, but will be unable to add one.

Cheating A student is to do his or her own work in and out of school and should neither give nor receive aid or information for use in homework, quizzes, tests or exams.When appropriate and designated by the teacher, students may receive outside assistance, or work collaboratively on homework, papers, projects, essays or lab reports. However, under all circumstances, the School’s plagiarism policy applies. Plagiarism Plagiarism is the copying of another person’s words or ideas and identifying them as your own and is a violation of the School’s Honor Code. It includes, but is not limited to the following forms: • Copying from another student or providing information to other students knowing that it will be used as the borrower’s own work; 42

Research papers and shorter critical analyses ought not consist merely of a string of quotations and ideas of others, but rather, of the student’s interpretation of them.A way to be sure that your own thoughts are expressed is to introduce in a few sentences the reason(s) for the quotation’s/idea’s inclusion in the paper; then to characterize the effect of the quotation/idea on your own thinking and its relation to your thesis statement. Successful papers combine the student’s thesis with references to primary and secondary sources that support that thesis and assist the student in making a persuasive argument to the audience. Education of Students At the first meeting of each academic class, teachers clearly explain the School’s policy on academic honesty and include this information 43

Procedures Should a teacher suspect that a student has committed a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy, the incident is investigated by the teacher and the Division Head to determine the facts.The investigation includes interview(s) with any student(s) involved. Upon reaching a decision, the Division Head recommends to the Head of School an appropriate consequence.The Division Head informs the student and parents in writing of the action taken and outlines consequences for any future infractions.

Advisor Students in grades six through eight are assigned an advisor. Faculty advisors have a small number of students and serve as the “advocate”for those children. Advisors receive copies of all progress reports and communications, meet with other faculty to discuss student academic and developmental progress, and are responsible for being the link between home and School. Parents, the student, and the advisor meet during the formal conferences, scheduled for the fall and winter. Both student and parents should consider the faculty advisor as the primary contact person if general questions about either academics or social life in school arise. One day during the six day rotation, the advisory meets as a group.As another peer group for a middle school student, the advisory is a place for conversations about classes, social concerns, community service projects, and other school related topics.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

in course handouts.This includes the school’s definition of academic honesty and consequences of violations.Teachers review the policy as it applies to their courses and assignments throughout the year, reminding students to seek clarification when unsure about proper documentation and procedures. Each division presents programs to educate students regarding community standards of academic honesty.

After School Care Program Penalties Cheating or plagiarism results in a grade of zero for the assignment. Penalties may include, but not limited to, academic probation, school suspension, or dismissal. Incidents resulting in suspension may be reported to colleges/secondary schools to which students apply.

Academic Probation Students and parents are notified of serious academic problems or deficiencies, and a parent conference with the teacher, the advisor, and the Head of the Middle School is arranged. A student who receives two or more trimester grades below 70 in major academic subjects, or one or more failing grades (below 60) may be placed on academic probation for the remainder of the year or for a designated period of time. At the end of that period, if the student’s performance or attitude has not improved substantially, the parents may be required to withdraw their child from the School.

44

An after-school program in Camp Hall is available for children in grades pre-kindergarten through eight from 3:10 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. The program offers a combination of educational and recreational activities and provides a nurturing and safe setting beyond the normal school day. These activities are coordinated by the Director of After School Programs. Fees are assessed at an hourly rate and will appear on a monthly statement. Lower and Middle School students may not remain on campus after school in an unsupervised activity or location. Students must be picked as soon as their scheduled activity is concluded. A child who has not been picked up ten minutes after the activity ends will be escorted to the after school program by the supervising adult and will be charged at the hourly supervision rate. Students in grades six, seven, and eight who have assigned computer or research project work may use Centennial Library computer labs after school. A written note is required from the teacher assigning to project.This note,which should include what time the student has made arrangements for pick-up, will be given to the Librarian after school. Upon arriving in the Library, a student must sign in on the clipboard located on the front desk. Students must understand that it is both a privilege and responsibility to work independently in the 45

Attendance Classes at the Middle School begin at 8:00 a.m. Students who arrive between 7:15 a.m. and 7:45 a.m. are to report to the Giguere Family Recital Hall. Students are dismissed from the Giguere Family Recital Hall at 7:45 a.m. each morning to report to their advisor. Students arriving after 7:45 a.m. (and prior to 8:00 a.m.) report directly to their advisor. Students who arrive to the school after 8:00 a.m. will be considered tardy. Prompt arrival is an important first step in the start of a good school day.We encourage students to arrive at school at 7:45 a.m. to allow time to gather materials for early morning classes. Starting the day organized sets a good tone for the entire day. Students are expected to be prepared for the start of the school day at 8:00 a.m.This means that books and materials for the first classes of the day should be removed from lockers and locker rooms. Students who have arrived at School prior to 8:00 a.m. but have not checked in with his/her advisor and not in advisory may be considered tardy.

Buses Bus service is available to many areas at the beginning and end of the school day. A small number of buses also provides service to students who are engaged in athletics or after school activities. Free bus transportation to and from school is available for students living in the city of Waterbury. In addition, the School contracts for a number of additional buses to serve surrounding communities. Parents interested in bus transportation should contact the Business Office for schedules, routes, and fees.

46

Safety dictates all campus traffic rules. Buses and cars follow patterns indicated on the traffic flow charts provided parents at the start of the school year. Middle School parents who carpool may drop their children off at the end of the library walkway or at the Lower School carpool area. Carpool pick up at dismissal may be at either location. Students are NOT PERMITTED to walk unescorted by parents into the parking lot. Students riding in school buses are expected to remain seated and observe all rules for good conduct which apply in the classroom. Students who engage in misconduct on the bus will be considered to have violated the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, and will be subject to disciplinary action. Repeated misconduct will result in loss of bus privileges and possible suspension from the School. Late buses run for the convenience of those involved with after school sports practices, extra help, or other school sponsored activities. Late buses depart School about 5:15 each day from the St. Margaret’s Hall small parking lot. Families sign up for available buses through the Middle School or Business Offices each day. Students in after school child care programs are eligible to ride these buses.There is a fee. Please contact the Business Office should you have questions about schedules or fees.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Library after school. Should a student abuse the privilege during his/her time in the Library he/she will be dismissed from the Library to the after school care program, where a fee will be charged for supervision. It is important that transportation arrangements be timely as the Library closes at 5:00 p.m. Students remaining in the Library after that time will be escorted to the After School Program in Camp Hall.

Communication Effective communication is critical to each child's education. A strong link between teachers, parents, and student will avert or solve many possible problems and facilitate solutions when issues arise. Beginning with “Back to School Night,” scheduled in early September, parents and faculty create an on-going communication on the growth of the Middle School child. A grade level program, meeting with advisor, and contact with classroom teachers all are part of the Back to School Night. Formal conferences, which will involve parents, the student, and classroom teacher or advisor, are scheduled twice during the year (October and January). Parents (and teachers) are encouraged to contact advisors for meetings should any question about academic progress or social issues arise.

47

A school counselor is employed full time by the School to consult and to work with faculty, students, and parents on important issues surrounding students’ growth and development. Middle School students are introduced to the counselor through small group meetings and the Life Skills program, a one trimester length course each year in the Middle School.The school counselor does not engage in on-going counseling but acts as a referral resource for students and families looking for outside testing and evaluation as well as counseling.

Decorum Students are regularly reminded that running, shouting, or loud conversation in the building is disruptive to the environment. Each teacher outlines the rules for his/her classroom. Students are not to bring food, including chewing gum, or drink from home to the second and third floor classroom areas without permission. Good table manners and acceptable social conversation at lunch are modeled and expected.

Dress Code See policy in the All-school section pages 13-14.

Disciplinary Procedures Students may be disciplined for conduct on or off school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity that endangers persons or property, is disruptive of the educational process of the School, or that violates the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, or other policy or regulation of the School. We strive on maintain a safe, open, well-mannered, and respectful atmosphere on campus, whether in the classroom, at assemblies, or on the playing field for sports. Creating good citizens is a critically important part of our mission.The rules for student behavior are designed to protect the rights and feelings of each individual, to foster the development of personal responsibility, and to ensure good order within the School. Lockers in the St. Margaret’s Hall do not have locks, meaning that we work on the honor system. Maintaining that 48

atmosphere is the responsibility of every School citizen. In our discussions of rules students are told of the importance of taking full responsibility for their conduct.Their presence in a situation involving a major infraction can link them with the activity and the disciplinary action that may follow. Students are expected to take care of themselves by immediately dissociating themselves from any situation that might be construed as a violation of the School’s standards. An after-school detention is scheduled for every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 3:15 – 4:00. Detention is designed as a disciplinary action for comparatively minor infractions. Repeated detentions for any reason are a cause for concern and may result in a more serious punishment. Students who have been assigned a detention will receive a note completed by the person assigning the detention as well as the Head of the Middle School.That form will be given to students at least one day in advance of the assigned detention. It becomes the responsibility of the student to have his/her parent sign the detention slip.At the end of the school day, students assigned to detention are to report to the Middle School Office where they will be met by the supervising teacher. Students will not be excused from detention for rehearsals, practices,lessons,or make-up sessions.They may, however, attend these upon the successful completion of the detention. Detention time may involve “community service work” around the building or campus or sitting silently in a proctored classroom. Major infractions may result in an “in-School separation” or suspension from School. If a student is suspended and reinstated, probationary conditions may exist for the remainder of the year and the invitation to return for the following year may be withheld until June when the Administration and faculty review the student’s record. Repetition of the same or a second major infraction may warrant dismissal from the School. Suspension from School signifies that a student’s conduct cannot be tolerated with the School and warrants separation from the community for the period of time of the suspension. Reinstatement following suspension is part of the educational process: a student is reinstated with the understanding that he or she has learned from the experience and can continue as a student in good standing.To be reinstated, a student must address a written request to the Division Head.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Counselor

49

• Explanation of the behavior that led to the student’s suspension • Explanation of what, if anything, the student has learned from this experience • Explanation of how the student will be able to meet the School’s behavioral and academic expectations in the future • Request to be reinstated to Chase Collegiate School. The student will submit the letter on return to the School, and he or she will meet with the Division Head or other administrator for a reinstatement interview.The Division Head will telephone the family if reinstatement is not granted on the basis of the letter and interview. Disciplinary Probation following suspension means that further major infractions may receive a greater penalty or longer suspension or may warrant withholding of a contract for the following year or immediate dismissal from the School.

Dress Code See policy in the All-school section pages 13-14.

Early Dismissal/Absences No student may leave campus at any time without permission and without signing out. A student who leaves campus without permission is considered to have violated the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, and will be subject to disciplinary action. Any student needing to be dismissed early from school should bring a note from home detailing when the student is to be dismissed and if he/she is to return and at what time.The student should send that notice to the Office with the morning attendance so that that information may appear on the Daily Bulletin. When that time comes for early dismissal the student is to report to the Middle School Office and “sign out” on the identified 50

clipboard. Should the student return during the school day, he/she is to sign back in. Students leaving early must wait at the Middle School Office OR in the lobby of Saint Margaret’s Hall. Students may not be met in the parking lot or carpool line. Absences Parents are asked to call the Middle School Office (203-2369520) prior to 9:00 a.m. if their child is absent. Every effort will be made to collect homework for absent students; work would be available after 2:00 p.m. on the table located on the second floor landing. Students are encouraged to call classmates and use the School’s website for clarification of assignments. Students will be permitted to make up work missed due to illness, a family emergency, religious observances, or other legitimate reasons as determined by the Head of the Middle School. If a student is absent on the day of a test he/she should plan to make up the missed test on the day he/she returns to school. If a family knows of an absence in advance they should send that information, to the Head of the Middle School. It may be possible for the child to receive work in advance of the absence.The School calendar for the upcoming year is published in March. Families are responsible for checking the calendar for dates that school is in session.Teachers are not obliged to prepare work in advance or to spend extra tutorial time to assisting students who miss school for trips or vacations. Students with excessive absences (20 or more) may jeopardize their ability to be promoted to the next grade and may be asked to withdraw from the school.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

The letter shall include evidence, in the form of a thoughtful, well-written letter that indicates the student has fully considered his or her current attitude, behavior, and performance. The letter must include at least the following:

Field Trips Students at each Middle School grade will go on a variety of field trips. A permission slip explaining the date,time of departure and return, method of transport, and destination is always sent home in advance of the trip. No student may accompany his/her class on a field trip without written permission from a parent or guardian. Expenses for most field trips are covered by tuition.Those not covered by tuition include the outdoor education trips scheduled each 51

year for Middle School students and the eighth grade class trip. Payment for those trips is collected in advance of departure.

Honors: An average of 85 or above in the academic courses, with no grade lower than 75 in any other course(s).

“Flex” and “Munch”

Homework Homework is a required part of the School’s educational program. Guidelines for the amount of homework vary by grade; please refer to the “Absences” section for homework procedures should a student be out of School.

Honor Roll The Honor Roll is designed to recognize consistently high academic achievement in grades six through twelve. Middle and Upper School students who have earned Honor Roll standing are recognized at an Academic Recognition Assembly each trimester. Parents are invited to that program.The following grades must be earned for a student to achieve Honor Roll standing: Faculty Honors: An average of 92 or above in the academic courses, with no grade lower than 80 in any other course(s).

In addition, we also recognize students’ progress from trimester to trimester.The Academic Progress award is given to students who have improved their grade in three or more academic subjects from trimester to trimester. It is presented at the end of the second and third trimesters.

Lunch and Nutrition Lunch is provided to all students as part of the School’s tuition. A balanced, nutritional meal is available every day, including a salad bar, fruit basket, soup, various breads, a steam table with vegetables, and a hot entrée.All students must report to lunch at the scheduled time.The lunch meal is served family style with a faculty member or eighth grade student heading each table. Students are assigned to a table, with tables changing regularly (about every three weeks). Middle School students assist with lunch by bringing some food items to the table, clearing, wiping tables, and setting for the next lunch. It is a responsibility shared by all Middle School students.We welcome parents and guests at lunch, however we ask that you advise the administrative assistant in writing or via e-mail with 24 hours notice. A snack is also available from the kitchen during “Munch” time in the morning. It is NOT designed to substitute for a breakfast. Students may not bring food to School or consume food outside of the Dining Room except for the School provided snack.The kitchen does not provide snacks or drink for students involved in after-school sports programs or activities. Dietary needs dictated by medical conditions should be made known to the school nurse and the Division Head so that accommodations can be made. Every effort is made by our faculty and staff to make our campus “nut free.” Nuts or products made with or including nuts should not be supplied to students for field trips, class celebrations, or otherwise be brought onto campus.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Social activities form an important part of a student's life in these years. Each day is structured with a short break, known as ‘Munch’ in the middle of the morning for a few moments to catch up with peers, a snack is provided to all students. At mid-day students have lunch and ‘Flex,’ a time for a variety of co-curricular activities and extra help. After the school meets as a community for messages, birthday announcements and presentations, students can choose to meet with a teacher for extra help, join in a club such as “The Magpie,” a literary magazine or a Jam session, and meet with their advisory to work on a community service project.The flexible time allows for longer lunches when necessary, mid-day excursions off-campus for performances or other outreach initiatives, and coordination with the other divisions for assemblies.

High Honors: An average of 88 or above in the academic courses, with no grade lower than 75 in any other course(s).

52

53

The Middle School meets as a community every day at “Middle School Meeting”. Announcements about recent successes and upcoming events are made during this meeting. It is a time when students, faculty, or entire grade levels are able to share important or exciting news. Birthdays are recognized and personal achievements may also be announced.The Middle School Meeting is also the time for the Middle School to come together and to hear messages about issues that concern us as a school community.

Nurse/Health Center The School nurse is on duty daily. In the Middle School, a student who becomes ill during the day should ask permission of his/her teacher to report to the nurse. If warranted, the nurse will telephone the parent and request the parent come to take the child home. Children who have an infection, fever, stomach virus, or other contagious illness should remain symptom free for twenty-four hours before returning to school. Students may NOT call parents directly to request to be picked up and taken home. Students are not permitted to have any medication in their possession. Students who possess medication in school will be considered to be in violation of the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, and may be subject to disciplinary consequences, up to and including dismissal from school. Parents must complete a medication dispensing form and give the prescriptive or non-prescriptive medication to the nurse so it can be kept and dispensed to the student by the nurse.

Reporting System and Schedule The school year is divided into trimesters, with a summative report card and comment sheets mailed home at the conclusion of each marking period.The reports are designed to reflect and comment upon a child’s achievement and progress during the past term. Parents are encouraged to contact a teacher or advisor at any time should a question arise about a grade, comment, or progress in a course. In addition to the report card, one Progress Report is carried home each term after about half of the term has passed.This report is designed to provide parents with updated information about progress, 54

including homework preparation, test and quiz scores, and participation in class activities. Each student returns a slip informing his/her advisor that the Progress Report has been reviewed at home.The Progress Report itself can be kept at home. A direct contact by advisor is also built into the reporting schedule.This may be a conference (two formal conferences scheduled each year) or a telephone or personal conversation. Finally, ongoing communication occurs after the progress report for those students whose effort, work, or grade has dropped significantly during the term.The purpose of this communication is to alert students and parents to the upcoming end of the marking term and the necessity of increasing effort as the term concludes.

Standardized Testing

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Middle School Meeting

Standardized tests are administered to students every year in the Middle School.These tests provide us with additional information about students’achievement and our academic program.Test results are reported to all parents after the School has received them.The following standardized tests are generally used in the Middle School: Grade 6 – ERB (spring) Grade 7 – ERB (spring) Grade 8 – SSAT (fall/winter)

Supplies A list of necessary school supplies is sent to each student in August.These supplies should be carried to school on the first day of classes and will need to be replenished, if necessary, throughout the year. Students in the Middle School purchase their books during the summer. A detailed explanation of the process is mailed to famlies in June. School supplies, log/spirit items, and athletic clothing are sold in the “Dugout,” which is located on the ground floor level of the Main Building. Purchases can be paid for with cash or be charged to the parent account if the proper forms have been completed.

55

Tardiness Should a student arrive after 8:00 a.m. he/she is to report to the Middle School Office or to any official person of the school before reporting to homeroom.The student must “sign in” on the clipboard located by the door. Students in grades six through eight who are tardy more than three times in a trimester will receive disciplinary action.Tardiness is excused only if accompanied by a note from a doctor indicating that an appointment had been scheduled or if a bus arrives late to School. Prompt attendance at classes is expected of students throughout the day.Teachers will establish penalties for students who are late to class during the school day. Students are advised to check in with a teacher before trying to complete any errands prior to the start of a class.

UPPER SCHOOL Policies & Procedures ACADEMIC INFORMATION SCHOOL RESOURCES HONOR CODE CONSTITUTION STUDENT LIFE

Telephones and Cellular Phones

UPPER SCHOOL

See complete policy in All-school section page 25.

Upper School Mission Statement Chase Collegiate School Upper School strives to build a community of learners who think independently and act responsibly in a global society, by developing each student’s intellectual, ethical, social, creative, and athletic potential.

56

57

A Message from the Upper School Head

Gregory L. MacGilpin, Jr. Head of the Upper School

58

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Graduation Requirements In order to earn a diploma a student must successfully: A.

Earn credits appropriate to the length of his/her Chase Collegiate career. A credit is earned by passing (i.e. achieving a grade of 60 or better) a full, year-long course. • A four-year student must earn 20 credits. • A three-year student must earn 15 credits. • A two-year student must earn 10 credits.

Fulfill all departmental depth requirements. Each student must successfully complete the following departmental requirements: • English -4 credits • Foreign Language -3 credits Departmental courses through the third-year level, including three years of language study at the upper school level. Students must have an end-of-year average of 70% or above to advance to the next level of language. Four years of language are recommended. • Mathematics -3 credits Four years of mathematics are strongly recommended, but not required. • Science -3 credits • Social Studies -3 credits including United States History. • Fine and Performing Arts -1 1/2 credits Ninth grade students take a full year, half credit, introduction to the arts course. To fulfill the Fine Arts graduation requirement of one and one-half credits, students must take an additional six trimesters in any two of the three disciplines – Music, Drama and Visual Arts. Credits for these courses vary depending on the meetings per week, duration of the class, and length of

B.

UPPER SCHOOL

It is a pleasure to welcome you to a new year of activity, learning, and growth in the Upper School. The Upper School years are some of the most vibrant and exciting years of education in a young person’s life. Our Upper School programs are designed to challenge students to take risks which will lead to meaningful personal growth and success. We want each student to develop to his or her fullest potential during his or her years in the Upper School, in preparation for a lifetime of leadership and service. Our faculty has adopted a mission statement that speaks to our purpose, which you will find below. You will note the values of independence and responsibility are central components of our educational philosophy and our program, valuable both for the present moment and for preparation for a future in college and in adult life. This handbook is designed to help answer some frequent questions which arise as well as to emphasize the value our community and our faculty place on respect, responsibility, integrity, and the love of learning. Please review it carefully and direct questions to a teacher, an advisor, or to me as appropriate. Please note that all students and parents are expected to be familiar with the contents of this handbook, and that by enrolling in the School, students and parents indicate their understanding and acceptance of School policies and procedures. We hope that you find this handbook helpful and that you enjoy the coming year!

Upper School Policies and Procedures

59

Academic Calendar and Program The School academic calendar is 34 weeks long, divided into three trimesters of about 11 weeks. The academic week is organized in a six-day rotating schedule. Most academic classes meet five times in that period; AP classes meet six times, while arts classes and some electives meet fewer days. The academic program is designed to encourage students to progress as rapidly and as far as their ability and desire permit. All students are required to take a minimum of five academic courses each trimester. Most students supplement their five-course schedule 60

with a sixth elective or course(s) in the Arts. Elective and Advanced Placement courses provide students an opportunity to work intensively on topics of interest. Diploma and departmental requirements are awarded for appropriate courses taken at other schools prior to entering Chase Collegiate School . Decisions regarding transfer credit are made by the Head of Upper School in consultation with faculty.

Grade Reports and Marking System The School sends mid-trimester Progress Reports to parents in October, January, and April, including a grade average which is unofficial, reported only on the progress report. In January and April, grades only are reported for students achieving a grade of 80 or higher; teachers write mid-trimester comments for students achieving grades below 80 and for those whose grades have dropped a full letter grade or more. At the end of each trimester, the School sends a Report Card including grades and written comments by all teachers. Special interim reports are sent if a student is not meeting the School’s academic expectations, or upon parental request. All parents are invited for an individual conference in October with their child’s advisor. Parent-teacher conferences are held throughout the year as needed or upon request. Parents are encouraged to request a conference with a teacher or with the advisor whenever they wish additional information on their child’s progress. An advisor or the Head of Upper School can also arrange conferences with all the teachers of a student when needed. E-mail is often the most efficient means of communication with teachers, though teachers also have voice mailboxes. Voice mail numbers and e-mail addresses are published in the school directory each Fall. Exams are administered in the winter trimester in January and at the end of the spring trimester in June. These exams equal 20% of the trimester grade in the Winter and Spring trimesters, respectively. The Upper School records student progress and achievement with numerical grades and narrative comments. Number grades have the following meanings:

UPPER SCHOOL

the course. Students are urged to consult with their faculty advisors when making course selections. Arts electives are open to all students, including ninth graders enrolled in the introductory arts courses. • Electives – 2 credits • Health and Wellness – 1/6 credit requirement in 9th grade • Public Speaking – 1/6 credit requirement in 9th grade • Ethics – 1/6 credit requirement in 10th grade • A minimum of 20 credits is required for graduation. • Athletics – non-credit Athletic participation in required for all students in two out of three seasons. This may be accomplished through the participation on at least one interscholastic team, a major role in a school production, or an approved activity outside of school. • Technology Skills – non-credit portfolio requirement in 9th grade • Senior Speech – non-credit All seniors are required to deliver a speech of five to eight minutes in length on a topic of their choosing, on a randomly assigned date determined the previous spring. A faculty advisor guides the development of the speech and must approve it in advance of the date.

61

Superior High Achievement Satisfactory Passing Not passing

Grade Point Averages/Rank-in-Class Chase Collegiate School does not calculate a Rank-in-Class for students. Independent school research indicates that class rank is not a true indicator of college success as all academic course offerings are considered college preparatory. The School does calculate a cumulative, weighted Grade Point Average (GPA) at the end of each year. Five points are added to the grades for all AP courses. Only academic courses taken at Chase Collegiate School are computed in the GPA. The GPA is reported on the high school transcript.

Academic Honesty One of the School’s primary missions is to educate students to make sound moral and ethical judgments. In teaching students to be independent thinkers and workers, the School expects that any help they receive is appropriate and acknowledged: that in all areas of academic life students will do their own work, giving credit to the ideas and help of others. Cheating: A student is to do his or her own work in and out of school and should neither give nor receive aid or information for use in homework, quizzes, tests or exams. When appropriate and designated by the teacher, students may receive outside assistance, or work collaboratively on homework, papers, projects, essays or lab reports. However, under all circumstances, the School’s plagiarism policy applies and students are expected to uphold The Honor Code. Plagiarism: Plagiarism is the copying of another person’s words or ideas and

62

identifying them as your own. It includes, but is not limited to the following forms: • Copying from another student or providing information to other students knowing that it will be used as the borrower’s own work; • Copying all or part of assigned work from print and/or electronic sources without acknowledging the source through footnotes or adequate means of citation and proper quote structure; • Rewording the writing of others without giving proper credit; • Submitting the same piece of work in more than one class without the permission of the teacher. Plagiarism can be avoided if one is careful to do the following: • Put someone else’s words or ideas in quotation marks and follow with a citation that indicates the source; • Summarize or paraphrase in one’s own words and follow with a citation; • Understand and follow specific guidelines for citation in each discipline, as explained in writing by the instructor. If you are unsure whether or not to cite a quotation or an idea, do the following: • Ask your teacher to explain and clarify well in advance of completing your final draft; • Go ahead and cite your source(s) if you have even the slightest doubt. You can always delete a citation later, but will be unable to add one.

UPPER SCHOOL

99-90 89-80 79-70 69-60 below 60

Research papers and shorter critical analyses ought not consist merely of a string of quotations and ideas of others, but rather, of the student’s interpretation of them. A way to be sure that your own thoughts are expressed is to introduce in a few sentences the reason(s) for the quotation’s/idea’s inclusion in the paper; then to characterize

63

Education of Students: The Honor Council is responsible for ongoing education of students regarding the Honor Code and cheating and plagiarism. In addition, each teacher reviews his or her policies at the beginning of the school year so students may understand the teacher’s expectations and the application of the Honor Code to each class. The Honor Council also schedules programs and events for various segments of the School community. Procedures: Should a teacher suspect that a student has committed a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy, the incident is investigated by the teacher and may be referred to the Honor Board. The Honor Board investigates and hears the case in accordance with their Constitution and makes a recommendation to the Division Head and Headmaster. Penalties: The base penalty for cheating or plagiarism is a grade of zero for the assignment. Additional penalties may be assigned by the Honor Board and include academic probation, school suspension, or dismissal. Incidents resulting in suspension may be reported to colleges/secondary schools to which students apply.

Academic Standards and Performance All students must meet the School’s academic standards and individual class expectations as set forth by the teacher. Students who do not achieve at a satisfactory level may be assigned extra-credit work during school vacations. If a student requires additional summer work to qualify for promotion or re-enrollment, parents will be notified in the Spring by the Head of Upper School.

64

Promotion to the next grade and an invitation to return for the next academic year are based on the previous year’s performance. The administration and faculty review each student’s overall record to determine the School’s decision on these matters. Upper School students are expected to maintain satisfactory grades in major subjects in order to be eligible for full participation in interscholastic sports and co-curricular activities.

Academic Probation A student who receives two or more unsatisfactory trimester grades (below 70) in major academic subjects, or one or more failing grades (below 60), may be placed on Academic Probation for the remainder of the year or for a designated period of time. In most cases, a conference with the advisor and Head of Upper School is required to specify remedial measures. Students placed on Academic Probation will be ineligible to participate in interscholastic sports and co-curricular activities unless a waiver is approved by the Head of Upper School and recommended by the student’s teachers. Students on Academic Probation will not automatically receive a re-enrollment contract for the next academic year. At the end of the probationary period, if the student’s performance or attitude has not improved substantially, the parents will be required to withdraw their child from the School.

Athletic Requirements In order to graduate from Chase Collegiate School, Upper School students are required to participate in two out of three athletic seasons each year, one of which must be on an interscholastic team. Program participation means participating in any of the recreational or team programs offered by the athletic department each season. This includes satisfactorily completing an approved Athletic Independent Study. Team participation means playing on any Chase interscholastic team offered each season. This includes serving as a full-time manager of a team or satisfactorily completing an approved Athletic Independent Study that involves participating in a team sport.

UPPER SCHOOL

the effect of the quotation/idea on your own thinking and its relation to your thesis statement. Successful papers combine the student’s thesis with references to primary and secondary sources that support that thesis and assist the student in making a persuasive argument to the audience.

65

yearlong courses may be added after two weeks of school. Changes in level of course may take place after the add/drop period but usually no later than the first six weeks of school.With the agreement and support of the Head of Upper School, Director of College Counseling, parents, and student, a schedule change that is deemed necessary for counseling purposes may not appear on the student’s transcript.

An Athletic Independent Study is normally granted to a student who wishes to participate in an athletic activity not currently offered at the School. Examples are participating in a town hockey team, a horseback riding program, or a dance program. These must be structured athletic programs which meet regularly for a minimum of 3 times a week and in which the athletes are coached and given an opportunity to compete or otherwise utilize their skills. An Athletic Independent Study is not normally granted for taking lessons in a sport or athletic activity (e.g., tennis, swimming, horseback riding, karate, etc.) A waiver for one season may be granted to a student with a major role in a school dramatic production, after consultation of the Athletic Director,Theater Director, and Head of Upper School. Please refer to the Athletic Handbook for additional details and explanations regarding athletic programs and policies.

A student may drop a yearlong course after the initial ten day add/drop period and a “WP” (withdraw passing) or “WF” (withdraw failing) will appear on the student’s transcript. A student may not drop a yearlong course at any time during the third trimester. Students will be expected to maintain a minimum course load of five academic classes at all times.

Course Registration

Incomplete Grades

In late Winter, students in grades 9, 10, and 11 register for courses for the following school year. Current teachers and advisors make recommendations to assist students in selecting courses most appropriate for their ability and discuss these recommendations with their parents and select a course load that meets their academic needs. Registration forms must be signed by the student, a parent, and the student’s advisor prior to returning the form to the Upper School Registrar.The Head of Upper School reviews all registration forms and approves a student’s program before making the schedule for the coming year.

Papers and class assignments are to be handed in on the due date or a grade penalty will be assessed. All major course work must be completed by the end of the course to receive a final grade and credit. If work is not done, an incomplete grade will be given. Incomplete grades must be resolved no later than two weeks following the end of the trimester unless extenuating circumstances prevent it, and approval for the extension has been granted by the teacher involved and the Head of Upper School.

Dropping a Course

Advanced Placement Courses Schedule changes for yearlong courses will take place during the first ten days of school, after the student has fully discussed the situation with his/her parents, advisor, teacher involved, and Head of the Upper School. The student must complete and file a Course Change form which is signed by the parents, teachers involved, the Director of College Counseling, and the Head of Upper School. Similarly, students may add or drop a one-trimester course during a ten day add/drop period at the beginning of each trimester. No 66

Advanced Placement is a program of college-level courses and exams that provide motivated students an opportunity to undertake advanced study and to earn college credit while still in high school. Enrollment in AP courses may be requested by the student or recommended by a teacher of a prior course. A student’s current teacher, the AP teacher, department chair, Director of College Counseling, and Head of Upper School advise on appropriate placement in AP courses. Enrollment on the course registration form requires the approval of the appropriate department chair.

UPPER SCHOOL

Changing a Course

67

AP courses are demanding and are designed to challenge a student’s factual grasp of material as well as his or her conceptual understanding of the subject matter. Colleges and universities may award academic or elective credit(s) or advanced standing in a specific subject based on AP exam performance.

dignity as well as honor. A Cum Laude chapter may elect not more than 20% of the senior class. It may elect the whole number in the spring of senior year, or not more than 10% of that number at the end of the junior year. Candidates’ names are submitted to the Upper School faculty for voting, and recipients are recognized at the June Honors Assembly.

Independent Study Program The Independent Studies Program (ISP) provides students an opportunity to explore in depth an area of interest outside of the offered school curriculum. The scope and depth of the ISP determines the amount of academic credit to be earned (1/3, 1/2, or 1 credit). Students considering an ISP must submit an ISP Application Form including a written proposal, signed by two faculty members, to the Head of Upper School. ISP proposals for the full year must be submitted during the regular course registration period and no later than the close of the add/drop period.

Honor Roll At the end of each trimester, the Honor roll for grades 6-12 is published to recognize those students who have distinguished themselves academically.

Homework All teachers are encouraged to provide assignments for the full week, indicating quizzes, tests and long-range assignments. This helps students know what academic work to expect if they are absent, or if classes are canceled due to inclement weather. Teachers post homework to the Student and Parent Portal of our student information database, which can be reached through the school website at www.chasecollegiate.org. Access to this Portal is via username and password distributed to each student and parent. Each user is responsible for the security of his or her password; passwords are not to be shared and should be changed regularly (e.g., every three months). Students or parents requiring assistance with username or password are encouraged to contact the Division Secretary. While extra help is available from each teacher, students may also sign up to work with a peer tutor. Peer tutors are Upper School students who volunteer to work with other students in certain subject areas, most often on a weekly basis. The peer tutors have received the approval of their teachers to participate in this program and their assignments are arranged by a faculty advisor.

For Honor Roll recognition, 5 points are added to A.P. grades Averages are not rounded for determination of honor roll.

Faculty and Class Advisors

Cum Laude Society The purpose of the Cum Laude Society is to recognize scholastic achievement at Chase Collegiate School while simultaneously striving to encourage qualities of ARETÉ, which means excellence in the moral sense, DIKÉ, which means justice, and TIMÉ, which means 68

UPPER SCHOOL

Peer Tutoring Faculty Honors: An average of 92 or above in academic courses, with no grade lower than 80 in any course. High Honors: An average of 88 or above in academic courses, with no grade lower than 75 in any course. Honors: An average of 85 or above in academic courses, with no grade lower than 75 in any course.

Faculty advisors help students to understand and handle academic and personal challenges. Advisors are often their advisees’ teachers or coaches and play an important role in the daily routine of a student. Advisors meet with their advisees as a group during a homeroom period each morning and for a longer meeting each Tuesday. In addition, advisors meet with students one-on-one periodically during the school year. Parents concerned about their child’s 69

progress may request a conference at any time. Information is shared regularly with the students’ parents, and conferences are scheduled in the fall and when needed. Class advisors help students plan and coordinate class activities. The primary role of the class advisors is to encourage the growth and development of individuals and to promote teamwork within the class. They are also responsible for assisting students in successfully completing all class projects and events.

referral, the Counselor will meet initially in confidence with the student (and if appropriate, teachers and parents) to assess the situation. Following that initial evaluation, recommendations are made which may include outside referrals for a further evaluation, testing or counseling. Short term counseling in school is available if deemed appropriate by the School, but generally students needing ongoing theraphy are requested to seek counseling outside the school.

Nurse/Health Center 7:55-8:00 8:00-8:45 8:45-9:30 9:30-10:15 10:15-10:35 10:35-11:20 11:20-12:05 12:05-12:50 12:50-1:30 1:30-2:15 2:15-3:00

Homeroom Period 1 Period 2 Period 3 Juice Break/Morning Meeting Period 4 Period 5 Period 6 Lunch Period 7 Conference Period

SCHOOL RESOURCES Extra Help Teachers provide extra help in all subjects for those students needing or requesting it. Students in grades 9-12 who are not working to capacity may be required to attend special study sessions before or after school. Parents will be notified and will be asked to make the necessary transportation arrangements.

The School Nurse is on duty daily. A Physician’s Examination form must be on file in the Nurse’s office before classes begin. The physician’s examination is required on a yearly basis. Participation in athletic events and any off-campus field trips are prohibited if this form has not been received. Parents must also complete a Medication Dispensing form and give the prescriptive or non-prescriptive medication to the Nurse so it can be kept and dispensed to the student in the health center according to directions. Students are not permitted to have any medication in their possession. Students who possess medication in school will be considered to be in violation of the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, and may be subject to disciplinary consequences, up to and including dismissal from school. Parents are requested to report to the School Nurse any illness in their family which might be contagious. Any student who becomes ill during the day should inform the classroom teacher, obtain permission from the appropriate administrator or teacher, and report to the Nurse. If warranted, the Nurse will telephone the parent and request the parent come to take the child home. Students may not call parents directly to request to be picked up and taken home.

UPPER SCHOOL

Upper School Class Schedule

School Counselor The School Counselor is available to any member of the School community to consult on personal and/or academic issues. Upon 70

71

ARTICLE I: THE DEFINITION OF HONOR Honor is the understanding and practice of what is right and just. It fosters the courage to uphold these values in public and in private. It is integrity and good judgment. Honor is pride in oneself as well as respect for others. Honor is an unspoken and unwritten way of living that is centered on doing what is right. It is not an individual way of life, but a way of life of a community. An honorable person takes responsibility for his or her conduct. The purpose of the Honor Code is to reinforce the positive values of Chase Collegiate School . It creates a community of trust among students and faculty by establishing a set of commonly articulated and understood principles to use as guidelines for right conduct guidelines for everyone to follow. The Honor Code is a form of student self-discipline and selfgovernment that allows for greater responsibility and greater freedom. The Honor Code enhances our community agreement that all members will “think independently and act responsibly,” as stated in the Mission of the Upper School, and strives to instill virtue in students to carry with them throughout life. ARTICLE II: THE HONOR PLEDGE At the beginning of each school year, at a Convocation ceremony, each Upper School student will take the following pledge On my honor, I pledge my academic integrity, honesty, respect, and sportsmanship to the Chase Collegiate School community, and I will encourage others to do the same. As a member of this community I will not lie, cheat, steal or demonstrate cruelty in any form. On exams and other student work requiring the Pledge, the following shorter version may substitute for the entire pledge:

72

On my honor, I pledge that this is my own work. This shorter, affirmative pledge is understood to convey the meaning of the entire pledge made each year by the students at Chase Upper School. While not stated explicitly in the Honor Pledge, harassment of any kind is a violation of the Honor Pledge under “or demonstrate cruelty in any form” and will be addressed as a serious breach of Honor. ARTICLE III: THE COMMITTEE STRUCTURE OF THE HONOR SYSTEM SECTION A: THE HONOR COUNCIL The primary responsibility of the Honor Council is to promote the value of Honor through proactive educational programming. This programming may take numerous forms, and the Council is encouraged to challenge itself and the school community in thinking about and acting on Honor in a variety of ways.The goal of the Council is to continually promote the community’s commitment to Honor as a core value. The Honor Council will typically meet once a week. If necessary, smaller committees may be established on an ad hoc basis for ongoing programming needs. The Honor Council will consist of the following individuals: 3 Seniors 2 Juniors 2 Sophomores 2 Freshmen 2 Faculty

UPPER SCHOOL

HONOR CODE CONSTITUTION

Head of Upper School (ex officio) Head of School (ex officio) Dean of Students (ex officio) Academic Dean (ex officio) College Counselor (ex officio) 73

SECTION B: THE HONOR BOARD The Honor Board is a sub-group of the Honor Council designated to hear specific cases in which Honor may have been violated, make a determination, vote on the findings and recommend consequences to the Headmaster. The goal of the Honor Board is to: 1. Listen to each case brought before it. 2. Decide whether or not Honor has been violated 3. If Honor has been violated, then decide on the consequence/s for the individual who violated Honor. 4. The Honor Board makes a recommendation to the Headmaster, who is the final authority. The Honor Board will meet on a case-by-case basis. Additional meetings may be scheduled if necessary. The Honor Board will consist of the following individuals: 2 Seniors (from the Honor Council) 1 Junior (from the Honor Council) 1 Sophomore (from the Honor Council) 1 Freshman (from the Honor Council) —

of at least five students (including the Senior Prefect or Associate Senior Prefect) along with the Faculty member and Administrator. If there is no quorum it is up to the discretion of the leadership of the Honor Board to decide whether to hold the hearing. The Senior Prefect Associate Senior Prefect is responsible for selecting members from the Honor Council to sit for each case heard by the Honor Board.The Senior Prefect should rotate responsibility among the Honor Council members so each gets equal opportunity to participate in hearing and voting on cases. Members not selected to listen and vote on a case may sit in on hearings and participate in the deliberations but may not vote. In the Fall trimester, the Freshman members of the Honor Council may participate in Honor Board case hearings but may not vote. The Freshman vote is exercised by the second Junior member of the Honor Council. In the second trimester, one Junior Council member relinquishes his or her vote at each case hearing and Freshman Honor Council members become full voting members of the Board with one Freshman member eligible to vote at each Honor Board case hearings. The Dean of Students is the administrator directly overseeing the activities of the Honor Board.

(Freshman representatives may vote only after the first trimester)

Two of the three seniors serving on the Honor Council will be designated the Senior Prefect and the Associate Senior Prefect.The method of selecting these individuals is left to the discretion of the Honor Council. The primary responsibilities of the Senior Prefect and Associate Senior Prefect are to provide effective student leadership to the Honor Council and Honor Board and to conduct the case hearings of the Honor Board. The third senior at large will serve as a liaison to the Dean of Students who will track detention violations. A quorum will consist

74

ARTICLE IV: THE ELECTION PROCESS OF THE HONOR COUNCIL SECTION A: NOMINATION FORMS Those students interested in serving on the Honor Council will nominate themselves for election.They will pick up a nomination form packet from the Upper School Office.The packet will include the following: 1. The student’s name and grade level 2. A statement of expectations for Honor Council members (e.g., job description, time commitment, need for being honorable in and out of school, the emotional strain it puts on members).This statement is signed by the student nominee. 75

UPPER SCHOOL

1 Faculty member (from the Honor Council) Dean of Students (typically) or Division Head or any Honor Council Administrator (ex officio)

All candidates for Honor Council must be approved by the majority of the Faculty and the Division Head before the public display of their self-nomination forms. If a student is eliminated from candidacy in this way, the student has the right to know what facts were presented against him or her and has the right to write a letter of appeal to the Dean of Students and Head of Upper School. The completed self-nomination forms will be posted in a public place for all the community to read. Beyond the self-nomination form there will be no campaigning (e.g., posters, speeches, etc.). SECTION B: RESTRICTIONS A student may not run for a position on the Honor Council if: 1. S/He is already on a formal probationary status at school (academic or disciplinary or honor probation). 2. S/He has been suspended within the last calendar year. 3. S/He is already elected to serve on the Executive Council or as a class officer. The time commitment required for this position would compromise the integrity of the Executive Council, Class Officers, and Honor Council. SECTION C: VOTING PROCEDURES Voting will be a two-stage process (if necessary) in which the preliminary vote will narrow the pool of candidates to a reasonable number. Ideally the final vote will offer twice the number of candidates for the available positions (e.g., four candidates for two positions). 1. Freshman candidates will be voted on at the middle of the first trimester, so that freshmen will have time to adjust to Upper School life.The freshmen will serve the remainder of the year.Voters will include the freshman class, the faculty, 76

2.

3.

4.

5.

and members of the Honor Council. Each group will have a one-third weight of the entire vote. Sophomore candidates will be voted on in the Spring of their freshman year.They will serve one-year terms. Voters will include the sophomore class, faculty, and members of the Honor Council. Each group will have a one-third weight of the entire vote. Junior candidates will be voted on in the Spring of their sophomore year.They will serve two-year terms.Voters will include the junior class, faculty, and members of the Honor Council. Each group will have a one-third weight of the entire vote. Senior candidates will be voted on in the Spring of their junior year. S/he will serve a one-year term.Voters to include the senior class, faculty, and members of the Honor Council. Each group will have a one-third weight of the entire vote. If more than two Faculty volunteer to be on the Honor Council, those candidates will be voted on in the spring for the next school year, first by the faculty and the Honor Council.The total of both those votes together will determine the top three candidates, and the student body will elect two out of those three.

SECTION D: REMOVAL OF AN HONOR COUNCIL MEMBER 1. A member of the Honor Council who appears before the Honor Board and is found to have violated the Honor Code may be removed from the Honor Board. A two-thirds vote of the entire Honor Council is required to recommend removal of an Honor Council member.The final decision rests with the Headmaster.

UPPER SCHOOL

3. Questions: Answer one or both questions. One page, typed, maximum, for both questions. a. Why do you want to be on the Honor Council? b. In your opinion, what does Honor mean in the Chase Collegiate School community?

2. A member of the Honor Council who violates confidentiality will be removed.

77

SECTION A: WHAT IS AN HONOR VIOLATION? Any action which goes against the Honor Pledge is an Honor Violation. Ignorance is not an excuse for violating Honor.The finding as to whether an action violates the Honor Pledge belongs to the Honor Board. Each teacher or coach will clarify the application of the Honor Pledge in his or her course, sport, or activity at the beginning of the trimester during class, practice, or meeting time and in written form in the syllabus or course description. Course policies will clarify what is “authorized” and “unauthorized” use of sources and other assistance, such as use of online resources or collaborating on homework.Teachers will discuss their policies with students throughout the year. If there is any confusion, students are encouraged and expected to ask their teacher(s). Students are expected to write the short form of the Honor Pledge on all exams, tests, papers, and major assignments, or as directed by the teacher, as an affirmative reminder of the importance of Honor in the School. SECTION B: RELATIONSHIP WITH DEAN OF STUDENTS Minor disciplinary issues, including dress code, gum, and tardiness will be brought to the Dean of Students. Repeated violations may constitute disrespect of the School which is an honor violation.The Dean of Students may choose to refer a student to the Honor Board.

78

ARTICLE VI: PROCESSING HONOR CODE VIOLATIONS A. An allegation of an Honor Violation may be reported to the Senior Prefect, Alternate Associate Senior Prefect, Honor Council faculty members, the Dean of Students or Division Head.The person making the accusation will meet with the Senior Prefect (or Associate Senior Prefect), and the Dean of Students (typically) or Division Head, and one faculty member from the Honor Council. From the time a case first becomes known, a written record of the case is generated. B. The Senior Prefect, Dean of Students, and Honor Council Faculty Advisors will decide whether a case will come before the full Honor Board. C. If the case is deemed an Honor Violation, the Senior Prefect, Dean of Students, and Honor Council Faculty Advisors will meet with the student to report the alleged violation. 1. If the student agrees that s/he violated Honor, s/he will write a statement of what happened and indicate that s/he believes Honor was violated and willingness to accept consequences. The case is then referred to the Honor Board to recommend consequences to the Headmaster.The facts of the case are presented at the hearing, and the student may bring his or her faculty advisor or other faculty advocate.

UPPER SCHOOL

ARTICLE V: DEFINING HONOR VIOLATIONS

2. If the student does not agree that s/he violated Honor, the case is referred to the Honor Board for determination as to whether Honor was violated. The student may bring witnesses and his or her faculty advisor or other faculty advocate. If the Honor Board finds that Honor has been violated, the Honor Board will determine the appropriate consequences and submit their findings and recommended consequences to the Headmaster. 79

E. Confidentiality of cases will be maintained. A member of the Honor Council who violates confidentiality will be removed. Students who appear before the Honor Board are also expected to maintain confidentiality. F. Records of Honor Board case hearing proceedings will be kept in an Honor Board Case Book, to protect all students and to establish precedents to ensure consistency of consequences. Good record keeping is essential to ensure complete documentation. G. SANCTIONS OR CONSEQUENCES 1. All students found to have violated the Honor Code will be given an Honor Warning or placed on Honor Probation. Honor Warning: An honor warning indicates that the Honor Board has found that a violation of the Honor Code has occurred; an honor warning is given in cases where it is the first time the student has violated the honor code and the Honor Board has deemed a warning as appropriate Honor Probation: Being placed on honor probation indicates that the Honor Board has found that a violation of the Honor Code has occurred; honor probation is given in cases where the violation is a repeat violation of the Honor Code and/ or is deemed a more serious first violation of the Honor Code. Honor Probation is in effect 80

for a designated period of time recommended by the Honor Board to the Headmaster and accepted or amended by him/her. Once a student has been placed on Honor Probation, additional violations of the Honor Code will result in further sanctions, up to and including the recommendation by the Honor Board to the Headmaster for suspension or dismissal. 2. Students found to have violated the Honor Code for academic integrity (plagiarism, cheating, copying, etc.) will have academic consequences. In such cases, the base penalty is a failing grade up to and including a “0” on the assignment or test. 3. The Honor Board may determine and recommend that additional sanctions to Honor Warning or Honor Probation are appropriate. Such sanctions are assigned in keeping with the educational philosophy of giving back to the community or restoring to the community in some way the Honor that was taken or compromised by the behavior resulting in the Honor Board hearing. The activities may include (but not be limited to): Academic assignments such as an essay, research, revision or re-doing assignments Community Service Extended or Saturday Detention Work Detail on campus Public or Private Letter of Apology Meeting with specific faculty, staff or administrator/s to apologize Restricted study halls or conference periods In-School Suspension Out-of-School Suspension Non-renewal of Contract Dismissal

UPPER SCHOOL

D.When a witness is called before the Honor Board, (s)he is expected to answer truthfully according to his or her knowledge of the case. In upholding the Honor Code, students have a responsibility to take positive and helpful action when they see a student violate the Honor Code. They are encouraged, but do not have an obligation, to report honor offenses violations. However, once a student is called as a witness, (s)he is expected to answer the questions of the Honor Board truthfully. Lying to the Honor Board is considered a violation of the Honor Code. Refusing to answer or withholding information when asked is also considered a violation of the Honor Code.

ARTICLE VII: HONOR EDUCATION We believe that honor education must be a community responsibility.Teachers, administrators, students, parents, and alumni should take an active role in establishing and maintaining the values embodied in the Chase Collegiate School Honor Code.Therefore, we believe that Honor Education must be as inclusive as possible. 81

A. Community-wide Programs • An Annual School-wide Event that addresses a moral theme is recommended. • Open Forums should be held twice a year to discuss relevant issues and make recommendations for change. B. Prospective Students • Admissions officers, Green Key guides, faculty, and administrators share knowledge about the Honor Code and take an active role in explaining the Honor Code to prospective students. C. Current Students • An Honor Code Handbook will be published each Year and includes Tips and Guidelines for Students. • The Honor Code will be posted throughout the School. D. Teachers • Teachers will be given tips or guidelines explaining the protocol of enforcing the Honor Code. • All teachers should address the Honor Code on their syllabi. • Teachers will attend Open Forums. • Prospective Teachers will be explained the role of the Honor Code in the School. E. Parents and Alumni • Parents and Alumni will be invited to Honor Council Open Forums. • The Honor Code will be featured in parent and alumni publications. • The Senior Prefect will be invited to a College Counseling evening program to discuss the Honor Code in the School and in the College Application process.

82

F. Contracts • The Honor Code will be considered part of both the Student-Parent Handbook and Faculty Handbook. Therefore, acceptance of both student enrollment contracts and faculty contracts indicates support for and understanding of the Honor Code. G. Honor Council Education • Each year, orientation and education will be held for members of the Honor Council. ARTICLE VIII: REVIEW OF THE CONSTITUTION The Honor Council will review the Constitution and make appropriate changes on an annual basis.This review should be completed before May 1.The Honor Council reserves the right to amend the Constitution when proper and necessary.

STUDENT LIFE Citizenship The rules for student behavior at Chase Collegiate School are designed to protect the rights and feelings of each individual, to foster the development of personal responsibility, and to ensure good order within the School. Truthfulness, mutual respect, consideration for others, good manners and goodwill throughout the School community are necessary for a healthy, productive learning environment. Throughout the year, a variety of class sponsored trips and programs are scheduled. It is the expectation of the School community that all students will attend these important school-related activities.

UPPER SCHOOL

Programs designed and/or promoted by the Honor Council may include the following.

Decorum Running and shouting are not permitted in the buildings, classrooms, or parking lots. Laptop computers are for academic use only. Chewing gum is not allowed at school. Good table manners and acceptable social conversation at lunch are required. 83

The major aims of the dress code are to create within the student body a strong sense of identity with the School and a sense of order which contributes to a healthy learning environment. Specific dress code guidelines are published and sent to each student and family during the summer. Formal dress will be worn by students in all three divisions every Friday and on other designated special event days. On other school days, children may wear formal dress, but it is obligatory on the designated dates. Specific guidelines for daily dress, formal dress and physical education class are included in the summer mailing and on the School website. Dress code regulation shorts may be worn during the months of September, May, and June with the exception of Formal Dress Days. Classroom teachers speak with students whose attire is not in accord with the dress code. Repeated violations will be referred to the Division Head. Any student whose attire is not in accord with the dress code will receive a detention. Upon repeated dress code violations, the student will be asked to remain out of classes until appropriate attire is available. A parent will be called and requested to bring to the School the proper article of clothing, or the student may be sent home after the parent has been notified by telephone. Repeated violations will be considered a major disciplinary matter. Occasional “dress down days” are announced. Although “casual and comfortable” is the goal, clothing that is ripped, torn, overly revealing, or displays inappropriate messages is not permitted.

Attendance The academic day begins with homeroom at 7:55 a.m. followed by morning meeting at 8:00 a.m. The day ends at 3:00 p.m. A student may not leave campus during the school day without specific permission from an appropriate school administrator and a verified request by the parent. A student who leaves the School without permission will be considered to have violated the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct and will be suspended. Families are asked to call the Upper School office between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. if their child is to be absent or late to school. 84

Students with excessive absences (20 or more) may jeopardize course credit and/or grade advancement and may be asked to withdraw from the School. Seniors are allowed two excused absences during the fall and spring in order to visit colleges. Students will be permitted to make up work missed due to illness, family emergency, religious observances or other legitimate reasons. A student’s teachers and advisor will determine when make-up work must be completed. Students with unexcused absences will not be permitted to make up the work missed. Students who know in advance of an absence for legitimate reasons other than illness, (special trips, medical procedure, etc.) are asked to complete an Advance Absence Form, which must be signed by the parent of the student who is requesting the excused absence. If the absence is approved by the Head of Upper School, the form must be signed by the advisor and all teachers. Except in highly unusual circumstances, students will not receive approval for extra vacation days, especially preceding or following scheduled school holidays. For absences approved by the Head of Upper School, make-up work is due on the day of return or as determined by individual teachers. Students without prior approval and a completed form on file will not receive credit for work missed during such absences. Exams are scheduled during the winter and spring trimesters. Students may not be excused during the administration of these exams except for illness. Students who miss a scheduled examination for other reasons usually may not make it up, and will receive a grade of zero for the examination. Examinations cannot be rescheduled to accommodate family trips or other non-school related events. Students who will miss school for purposes of visiting colleges must submit a College Visit Day form signed by all of their teachers and their college counselor to the Upper School Office at least 48 hours in advance of their planned absence.

UPPER SCHOOL

Dress Code

Promptness As a courtesy to others, all students are expected to be on time for school and classes. If a student is late to school and the lateness has not been preceded by a telephone call, the student must bring a

85

note from the parent to the Upper School Administrative Assistant. Three unexcused tardies result in assignment of detention.

• Study halls are meant for quiet work; group conversations must be granted permission ahead of time

Transportation

• Assigned students can be excused only be a teacher at the beginning of the period

Study Hall Supervised study halls are held during the school day in the Upper School Study Lounge and classrooms to provide students with the opportunity to complete class assignments, begin and continue homework or to work with other students during the day.While study halls are open to all students who wish to use them as a resource, the following students are automatically assigned a study hall each trimester: • all ninth grade students • all students with an overall grade point average below 80 • all students recommended by their advisors To ensure students have a common experience and can meet expectations within their study halls, the following guidelines are established by all proctors: • Study halls are for academic pursuits only (i.e., homework, collaborative work, labs, quiet reading)

86

Telephones and Cell Phones See complete policy in All-school section page 25.

Lockers The School provides each student with a locker and reserves the right to inspect lockers and student property when deemed necessary for the welfare of all students and the implementation of school regulations.

Upper School Disciplinary Procedures Students may be disciplined for conduct on or off school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity that endangers persons or property, is disruptive of the educational process of the School, or that violates the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, or other policy or regulation of the School. If it is determined that a student has committed a minor infraction of the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct, he/she will be assigned to serve detention at the end of the school day or the next day. Serious disciplinary matters involving any student will be dealt with by the Head of School, Academic Dean, Head of Upper School, and any teacher(s) directly involved. Honor infractions (violations of the Honor Code) are referred to the Honor Board. Please see the Honor Code Constitution. Major disciplinary infractions not involving the Honor Code are dealt with by the Dean of Students and Head of Upper School and may result in disciplinary probation, suspension from the School, or dismissal. If a student is suspended and reinstated, the student remains on probation for the remainder of the year or the following year as circumstances warrant. Administration and faculty review the student’s record and behavior to determine an appropriate penalty. Repetition of the same misconduct or other unacceptable behavior may warrant dismissal from the School.

UPPER SCHOOL

Safety dictates all campus traffic rules. Buses and cars follow patterns indicated on the traffic flow charts provided to parents at the start of the school year. Cars are not allowed in the Upper School area. All parking must take place in assigned parking lots. Upper School students who drive to school will park by the Goss Field House. Students must register cars with the Upper School Administrative Assistant. Personal belongings should not be visible inside the car. Cars are to be locked after arrival and students may not return to their cars without permission until class dismissal. Parking lots and student cars are “out of bounds” during the school day. Students who violate this regulation will be considered to have violated the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct and will be suspended.

87

When seniors are suspended, suspensions are reported to the colleges to which the students have applied. All decisions regarding discipline are made in the sole discretion of Chase Collegiate School .

school policy or regulation must serve the detention on the day of the offense or within 48 hours if there are extenuating circumstances. Detention is faculty supervised Monday-Friday from 3:00-3:45 p.m. The nature of the offense determines the type of detention given, either silent study or campus work.

Suspension and Reinstatement Peer Counselors Selected students undergo training to act as support to their peers in the community. Often students find it easier to discuss issues such as relationships and stress with a peer. Peer counselors are available to listen, provide support, and when necessary, act as a resource for further information or help in a confidential setting. Peer counselors act under the direct supervision of the School Counselor.

Freedom from Chemical Dependency (FCD) FCD Educational Services, Inc., is a nonprofit organization that provides alcohol, nicotine, and other drug education to schools and colleges in the United States and abroad. The centerpiece of all FCD programs is the comprehensive four-day course, a richly interactive curriculum that combines up-to-date information with real-life experiences. Annually, FCD is secured to present their four-day course to the Upper School.

Intervention Team A team of three faculty members is available to meet with any student who wishes to discuss his or her concerns about a possible substance abuse problem. The intention is to provide a way for students to express concern about their own or others’ substance use without getting the student involved in the disciplinary system. If appropriate, a referred student will be asked to meet with the team to discuss the expressed concerns. The team’s procedures will be outlined at that time.

UPPER SCHOOL

Suspension from School signifies that a student’s conduct cannot be tolerated within the School and warrants separation from the community for the period of time of the suspension. Reinstatement following suspension is part of the educational process: a student is reinstated with the understanding that he or she has learned from the experience and can continue as a student in good standing. To be reinstated, a student must address a written request to the Head of Upper School. The letter shall include evidence, in the form of a thoughtful, well-written letter, which indicates the student has fully considered his or her current attitude, behavior, and performance. The letter must include at least the following: • Explanation of the behavior that led to the student's suspension • Explanation of what, if anything, the student has learned from this experience • Explanation of how the student will be able to meet the School's behavioral and academic expectations in the future • Request to be reinstated to Chase Collegiate School . The student will submit the letter on return to the school, and he or she will meet with the Division Head or other administrator for a reinstatement interview. The Division Head will telephone the family if reinstatement is not granted on the basis of the letter and interview. Disciplinary Probation following suspension means that further major infractions may receive a greater penalty or longer suspension or may warrant withholding of a contract for the following year or immediate dismissal from the School.

Private Music Lessons Detention Students who receive a detention from a faculty member for violating the Chase Collegiate School Code of Conduct or other 88

The Music Department is comprised of a dedicated group of practicing musicians. Full-time faculty and visiting teaching artists strive to create and provide the very best musical training available. Private music lessons as well as master classes are offered throughout 89

the year. Additional information is available by contacting the Music Department Chair directly.

Extracurricular Activities & Athletic Teams Chase Collegiate School provides an opportunity for students to pursue a strong academic program as well as an opportunity to grow and develop relationships and interpersonal skills which will last a lifetime. A variety of co-curricular clubs and athletic sports help in this endeavor. Students are encouraged to join or to initiate student organizations and activities and to play an active role in their leadership. Official student organizations must have a faculty sponsor, must meet regularly, and must sponsor at least one activity per trimester or the equivalent. The clubs and activities which are currently active include: Some of the current clubs and activities include: Children's Equality Worldwide Chase Ensemble Chorus Community Outreach Debate Club Concert Band Diversity Club Drama (acting and production) Environmental Club Executive Council French Club Green Key (student guides) Handbell Choir The Highlander (Newspaper) Jazz Ensemble Latin Club Literary Magazine Magic Club Math League Model U.N. Public Affairs Salmagundi (Yearbook) Ski Club Spanish Club Special Wishes Video Production Club Writer's Club

Team Sports

Fall: Cross Country Soccer Volleyball Crew (co-ed) Fitness Training Independent Study (specify sport)

Winter: Basketball Ski Club Swimming (co-ed) Wrestling Fitness Training Independent Study (specify sport)

Spring: Baseball Softball Golf (co-ed) Ultimate Frisbee (co-ed) Tennis Lacrosse Crew (co-ed) Fitness Training Independent Study (specify sport)

Some activities are offered for credit and meet on a more regular basis. These activities include Band, Chorus, Handbells, Chase Ensemble, Model UN,Yearbook, newspaper and Drama (both acting and production).

90

91

SCHOOL TELEPHONE / FAX NUMBER PHONE NUMBERS

Main Line Lower School in Camp Hall Head of the Lower School Middle School Head of the Middle School Upper School Head of the Upper School Academic Dean Admissions Alumni Relations Athletics Box Office Business Office Centennial Library College Counseling Office Dining Services in Garthwait Dining Hall Development Office Dugout / Parents' Association Headmaster John D. Fixx Network / Technology Center Nurse’s Office

(203) 236-9500 (203) 236-9510

August

22 25-29 28

(203) 236-9520 (203) 236-9530 (203) 236-9505 (203) 236-9560 (203) 236-9557 (203) 236-9483 (203) 236-9545 (203) 236-9580 (203) 236-9540 (203) 236-9534 (203) 236-9575 (203) 236-9550 (203) 236-9598 (203) 236-9501 (203) 236-9565 (203) 236-9555 FAX NUMBERS

Main Fax Line Lower School Fax Middle School Fax Upper School Fax Business Office Fax Development / Alumni Fax Library & Network / Technology Center Fax

SCHOOL CALENDAR 2008-2009

(203) 236-9494 (203) 236-9509 (203) 236-9494 (203) 236-9535 (203) 236-9566 (203) 236-9558

September 1 2 16 18 23 October

7 8 9 10 13 17

November 10 25

(203) 236-9543 26

92

Friday week Thursday

New Faculty Orientation Faculty Professional Development Days New Family & Grade 6 Orientation for Grades PK-8, 8:00–9:30 a.m. Lower School “Hopes and Dreams” Conferences, 9:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. New Family & Freshmen Orientation for Grades 9-12, 5:00–7:00 p.m. Monday Labor Day – School Closed Tuesday 1st Day of Classes - Opening Assembly, 8:00 a.m., Goss Field House Tuesday Upper School Back-to-School Night, Gr.9-12, 7:00 p.m. Thursday Lower School Back-to-School Night, Gr.PK-5, 7:00 p.m. Tuesday Middle School Back-to-School Night, Gr.6-8, 7:00 p.m. Tuesday Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day: Grades 6-12, 8:00–11:15 a.m. Wednesday Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day: Grades PK-5, 1:15–3:00 p.m. Thursday Yom Kippur - School Closed Friday Fall Weekend – No Classes Monday Columbus Day – School in Session Friday Parent Conferences: Grades PK-12 No Classes Monday Professional Development Day – No Classes Tuesday Parents’ Association Holiday Bazaar, 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Thanksgiving Holiday begins at 3:10 p.m. Wednesday Comment Writing Day – No Classes

93

December 1 19

Monday Friday

January

1

Thursday

5 19

Monday Monday

21-23

Wed-Fri

23

Friday

16 6 23 10 1 2 4

Monday Friday Monday Friday Friday Saturday Monday

25 4

Monday Thursday

5

Friday

February March April May

June

94

Classes resume at 8:00 a.m. All-School Holiday Concert 10:45 a.m., Winter Recess begins at 12 noon New Year’s Day Holiday – School Closed Classes resume at 8:00 a.m. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day School Closed Upper School Exams, Wednesday through Friday Parent Conferences: Grades PK-8 No Classes for PK-8 (Conference snow date: Monday, January, 26) Presidents’ Day - School Closed Spring Recess begins at 3:10 p.m. Classes resume at 8:00 a.m. Good Friday – School Closed Alumnae/i Day & Reunions Alumnae/i Day & Reunions Faculty Professional Development Day – No Classes Memorial Day - School Closed Last Day of Classes Lower/Middle School dismissal 3:00 p.m.; Upper School 12:00 noon Commencement at 10:30 a.m. – No Classes

UPPER SCHOOL TESTING DATES PSAT Wed. October 15

SAT (Saturdays) ACT (Saturdays) October 4 October 25 November 1 December 13 December 6 February 7 January 24 April 4 March 14 June 13 May 2 June 6

Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations May 4-8 May 11-15

This calendar is subject to change if the School has an unusual number of snow days. Athletic team schedules are published separately each trimester.

95

CHASE COLLEGIATE SCHOOL EST. 1865

AN ACADEMICALLY DEMANDING COED DAY SCHOOL IN THE CLASSIC INDEPENDENT SCHOOL TRADITION. GRADES PREK-3 THROUGH 12.

565 Chase Parkway Waterbury, CT 06708-3394 Main Phone: 203-236-9500 Lower School: 203-236-9510 Fax: 203-236-9509 Middle School: 203-236-9520 Fax: 203-236-9494 Upper School: 203-236-9530 Fax: 203-236-9535

www.chasecollegiate.org