2023 - 2024

           District Information Booklet

                           http://www.fpsct.org/

The Farmington Board of Education will not make employment decisions (including decisions related to hiring, assignment, compensation, promotion, demotion, disciplinary action and termination) on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, or gender identity or expression, except in the case of a bona fide occupational qualification. Questions concerning Title VI or Title IX compliance should be directed to: Assistant Superintendent, 1 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT 06032 860-673-8270. Questions concerning Section 504 compliance should be directed to: Director of Special Services, 1 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT 06032, 860-677-1791.

Dear Farmington Families,

I want to enthusiastically welcome you back to a new school year filled with joy, academic excellence and care for oneself and others. The School District Information document provides information about district expectations and procedures as well as the most commonly referenced policies and regulations of the Farmington Board of Education. It does not provide complete policies or regulations, which are available by visiting the Board of Education’s Policy and Regulations section of the website. We encourage you to visit our website regularly as we progress through the school year for information on this coming year’s priorities and improvement work. In addition, in the first few weeks leading up to school, new families and those not yet signed up will receive an invite for ParentSquare, our communication platform.  Families can also follow regular communication updates from our schools and school district on the ParentSquare App.

The information included in this 2023-2024 School District Information document is intended to outline important school and district information. In turn, the Board of Education policies on Student Conduct and Discipline, School Bus Behavior, Child Neglect Abuse Reporting Procedures, Electronic Communication Systems as well as other various policies are included for your review. It is important that you are aware of these policies, regulations and information. On an annual basis, some district policies are subject to change. Again, all policies and regulations are online and available at all times for your review. This informational document also contains general transportation information, the 2023-2024 school calendar and information regarding the school breakfast and lunch programming.

As you review information regarding school meals, I want to call to your attention that the State of Connecticut recently announced a program to provide free breakfast for all students.  In addition, free lunch will be available to students who are approved for reduced-price meals. Please submit a free and reduced price meal application to determine eligibility.  Farmington Public Schools was pleased to opt into this offer for the 2023-24 school year.  Please refer to pages 61-64 for more information.

As you discuss the upcoming school year with your child(ren), I encourage you to develop a plan to take advantage of the wide range of exciting learning opportunities offered. Please remember the importance of strong attendance when it comes to student outcomes and well-being.  In addition, please make every effort to ensure on-time attendance to school each day to maximize student learning and growth this school year.  I welcome you to the 2023-2024 school year and thank you for your partnership and cooperation. On behalf of the Farmington school district, we look forward to welcoming your child(ren) back to a new school year filled with exciting and innovative learning experiences throughout all of our schools and classrooms.

Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Greider

Superintendent of Schools

Farmington Public School- Administration

Farmington Public Schools- Building Information

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TRANSPORTATION PROCEDURES AND POLICIES PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES

Parents/Guardians are responsible for the conduct of their children while they are waiting for the bus and returning home from the designated bus stop. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure that the student is waiting at his/her designated stop on time. Students should be at their designated bus stop 10 minutes before and wait 10 minutes after their scheduled bus arrival time. Should a student miss the bus, the parent must find alternate means of transporting the child to school.

Parents/Guardians of kindergarten students must be at home if the school bus picks up/drops off at home or be at the school bus stop not at the student’s house when the school bus returns the student to his or her home, or must designate a person responsible to receive the child. If the person designated to receive the student is other than the parent/guardian, the parent/guardian must notify the school principal in writing.

During inclement weather, a bus driver may determine that a hill or street cannot be negotiated safely. The district will make every attempt to notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) if this situation occurs. It is the parents'/guardians’ responsibility to make alternate arrangements to ensure that their child gets to school.

SPECIAL TRANSPORTATION REQUESTS

If you require special transportation arrangements for your child (i.e. pick up or drop off location other than your home address), please contact the school for an application. The school will give approval and bus assignment after receiving your application provided space is available on the bus.

FARMINGTON BOARD OF EDUCATION TRANSPORTATION POLICY

The Board of Education will provide transportation for students under provisions of state law and regulations. In determining the provision of transportation, the superintendent of schools shall consider the guidelines contained in this policy and shall administer the operation so as to:

1. provide for the safety of students, including consideration of hazardous conditions whether or not described in this policy;
2. provide for appropriate supervision for students while on school transportation, consistent with the Board’s student discipline policy; and
3. assist disabled students by providing appropriate specialized transportation when required by law.

The Board’s full Transportation Policy, 3541, is available online at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTbQQimBwv-orKmJyXmidN09ThDwuJUdPUtEg3yM5buPPjIGDDStlq-c4g1nKMYXnTRugaPSpA-oaoX/pub or in hard copy in the main office of each school building and Central Office.

IMPORTANT TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

Please take a few moments to review the regulations in this document with your child. Safety must be communicated to everyone involved in transporting students. You as a parent(s) or guardian play an important role in ensuring your child’s safety.

1. Please be advised that bus pick-up times are estimated times and subject to change during the year due to bus route changes. This is especially true in the first few weeks of school when timing and routing adjustments are being made. There are new students, routes, and drivers, and understandably an adjustment period. Children should be at the bus stop 10 minutes before scheduled time of arrival and wait 10 minutes after scheduled arrival time. We ask for your patience as we work out the schedule.

The bus driver will notify students of minor timing adjustments. If there is a substantial change in timing, routing or bus the student rides, the Business Office will notify parents/guardians in a timely manner.

2. If a child has not arrived at his/her destination at the end of the school day, call the school, or if the school cannot be reached, call:

• M & J Bus, Inc. - (860)-674-1241
• The following information will be needed:

• Child’s Name and Address
• School and Grade
• Bus Number*

• Please wait for the school or bus company to return your call. Your child may have missed his/her bus stop and the driver is in the process of returning to that stop at the end of the route.

• Students in grades K-6 will be returned to their school and supervised in the Extended Care & Learning Program until 6:00 p.m. A fee for supervision may be charged based on an established rate.

• Students in grades 7-12 may be returned to the bus company if school is not in session. If your child is returned to the M & J Bus Company, please call (860) 674-1241 to make arrangements to either pick up your child or have M & J Bus return your child home.

VIDEO CAMERAS ON BUSES

To improve safety and discipline on the Farmington school buses, video camera equipment is installed on school buses. Student discipline is an especially challenging responsibility for bus drivers and school administrators. Misbehavior can create a safety hazard for everyone. The Farmington school administration is committed to improving safety on school buses for our students. With this monitoring system, bus drivers will be able to maintain better control of students while riding our buses. School administrators use the video monitoring system to review student behavioral issues on buses and to assist in properly identifying students who do not follow established behavioral expectations.

LATE BUS SCHEDULE

The schedule for late buses is posted on the district website here:

 http://www.fpsct.org/transportation

LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES        

Articles left on the school bus will be kept on the bus for about one week. Students may retrieve lost articles from the bus drivers. If, after one week, items have not been claimed from the school bus, they will be placed in a lost and found box at the bus company. Please call M & J Bus, Inc. at (860) 674-1241 for any lost item. After a period of time, articles not claimed will be donated to the Salvation Army. Any lost item found on the bus is not the responsibility of the bus company.

ITEMS BROUGHT ON THE BUS

All items should be confined to what your child can carry on his/her lap. Animals, food, and/or drinks are NOT allowed on the bus.

STUDENT CONDUCT ON BUS

Rules for the conduct of students on buses are found within the Board of Education’s Policy Regulation 3541.7A  They are also included in each school’s handbook. Please review rules of conduct with your child(ren). Parents or guardians are required to sign an attached statement signifying they have read and understood the rules and to return the form to school. We appreciate your partnership in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment on buses.  

The rules of conduct are:

• The driver shall be in full charge of the bus and of all students riding therein at all times while students are being transported to and from school. The driver shall enforce all rules and regulations adopted by the school authorities for the conduct of students riding on the bus.
• Students must take a seat when they enter the bus and remain seated at all times while the bus is in motion.

• Indecent or profane language, smoking, rowdyism, loud talking, or unnecessary conversation with the driver are prohibited.
• Students shall not throw any object in or out of the bus.
• Hazard creating articles such as water pistols, etc. are not to be carried on the bus.
• Possession or use of drugs and/or drug paraphernalia and alcohol is prohibited.
• Smoking and vaping are not permitted.
• Students shall not at any time extend their arms or head out of the bus windows.
• Students shall not open bus windows without permission from the driver.
• Students shall enter and leave the bus only at the front door except in cases of emergency.
• Students must be on time and at all times cooperate in keeping the bus on schedule.
• Students must not stand on the traveled portion of the highway while waiting for the bus.
• After alighting from the bus, students shall cross the highway, if necessary, in front of the bus, being careful to see that traffic is halted.

All Farmington Board of Education policies related to student conduct apply while students are traveling on school provided transportation.

Parental/Guardian Liability - Parents of students who damage, injure or deface any bus shall be held liable for such damage.

Violation of Rules - When students do not observe the above rules, the driver shall report them to the School Principal as soon as possible.

Loss of Bus Privileges - The matter of suspension from riding on the bus shall be determined by the Principal, as a last resort, after parents have been duly notified. This action shall be subject to review by the Superintendent.

FARMINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Please click here for the 2023-2024 School Calendar

ANNOUNCEMENTS OF SCHOOL CLOSINGS, DELAYS OR EARLY CLOSINGS ARE MADE ON:

• WFSB Channel 3
• WTNH Channel 8
• WVIT Channel 30 Web site – www.fpsct.org

If you have a question or an issue, please contact:

M & J Bus at (860) 674-1241

• Bus Routing Issues
• Driver Conduct Issues
• Accidents
• Petitions
• Student Lost Articles
• Bus Arrivals/Late Buses

School Office (phone numbers listed above)

• Change in Bus Assignment
• New Student Registration
• Discipline Issues at Bus Stop or on the Bus
• Missing a Bus
• Late Bus Schedule & After School Service Schedule

DISTRICT SMARTPHONE APP

For your convenience, the Farmington Public Schools has partnered with ParentSquare providing a smartphone app for iPhone and Android devices that allows you to receive notifications related to school cancellations and delays, along with school calendars, and other information. The app can be downloaded by going to the Farmington Public Schools website.

The Farmington Board of Education maintains a comprehensive policy manual concerning the operation of the Farmington Public Schools. The District provides here required annual notifications and excerpts from policies and procedures that are most significant in the daily operation of the schools. Families are encouraged to review the complete policy manual, which can be accessed at https://www.fpsct.org/policy, and which is available in hard copy in the main office of each school building and Central Office.

STUDENT RELATED POLICIES AND NOTIFICATIONS

NON-DISCRIMINATION (Policy 5146) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSY0Bn78Bu5plZ3jUaudawaAsAbVJI1KJbTDoGrh6vRlgsnvw00HGOivSoJhcogpdX2iuYzlqRQcFF5/pub)

The Board of Education (the “Board”) complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws prohibiting the exclusion of any person from any of its educational programs or activities, or the denial to any person of the benefits of any of its educational programs or activities because of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, alienage, ancestry, disability, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, or veteran status, subject to the conditions and limitations established by law.

It is the policy of the Board that any form of discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, alienage, ancestry, disability, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, or veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state or federal law is prohibited, whether by students, Board employees or third parties subject to the control of the Board.  The Board’s prohibition of discrimination or harassment in its educational programs or activities expressly extends to academic, nonacademic and extracurricular activities, including athletics.  It is also the policy of the Board to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any discrimination or harassment on the basis of protected characteristics such as race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, alienage, ancestry, disability, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, or veteran status.

Any student and/or parent/guardian wishing to file a complaint regarding discrimination or harassment may obtain a copy of the Board’s complaint procedures and complaint form, which are included in the Board’s Administrative Regulations Regarding Non-Discrimination/Students.  These regulations accompany Board Policy 5146 Non-Discrimination (Students) and are available online at www.fpsct.org or upon request from the main office of any district school.  

If a complaint involves allegations of discrimination or harassment based on reasons such as gender/sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or pregnancy, such complaints will be handled under other appropriate policies (e.g., Policy 5145.5 Title IX Sex Discrimination and Sexual Harassment (Students), Policy 5147 Section 504/ADA (Students)).

Any student and/or parent/guardian also may file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education (“OCR”):

Office for Civil Rights, Boston Office

U.S. Department of Education

8th Floor

5 Post Office Square

Boston, MA  02109- 3921

(617-289-0111)

http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/howto.html

Any student and/or parent/guardian may also file a complaint with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities:

Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities

450 Columbus Blvd.

Hartford, CT 06103-1835

(860-541-3400 or Connecticut Toll Free Number 1-800-477-5737)

Anyone who has questions or concerns about this policy, and/or who may wish to request or discuss accommodations based on religion, and/or who would like a copy of the Board’s complaint procedures or complaint forms related to claims of discrimination or harassment, may contact:

Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Farmington Public Schools

1 Monteith Drive

Farmington, CT 06032

(860) 673-8270

wynnek@fpsct.org

Anyone who has questions or concerns about the Board’s policies regarding discrimination or harassment on the basis of gender/sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation may contact the Board’s Title IX Coordinator:

Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Farmington Public Schools

1 Monteith Drive

Farmington, CT 06032

(860) 673-8270

wynnek@fpsct.org

Anyone who has questions or concerns about the Board’s policies regarding discrimination or harassment on the basis of disability, and/or who may wish to request or discuss accommodations for a disability, may contact the Board’s Section 504/ADA Coordinator:

Director of Special Services

Farmington Public Schools

1 Monteith Drive

Farmington, CT 06032

(860) 673-8270

cullinans@fpsct.org

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (Policy 5125)

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vS_myXWkHJTGuiRiW4L1j75KGmP5BWfj4DCtK4RHEiPBA8NEjtjILvonygUPVmzAM84PhJ8yjKAE_33/pub)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, et seq., affords parents and eligible students (i.e., students over 18, emancipated minors, and those attending post-secondary educational institutions) certain rights with respect to the student's education records.  They are:

(1)         The right to inspect and review the student's education records within forty-five (45) calendar days of the day the District receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parents or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

(2)        The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parents or eligible student believe are inaccurate or misleading, or otherwise violate the student's privacy rights.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the District to amend a record should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record the parents or eligible student want changed, and specify why it should be changed.

If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parents or eligible student, the District will notify the parents or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parents or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

(3)        The right to privacy of personally identifiable information in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to a school official with legitimate interests.  A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the Board of Education; a person or company with whom the District has outsourced services or functions it would otherwise use its own employees to perform (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.  A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the District discloses a student's education record without consent to officials of another school, including other public schools, charter schools, and post-secondary institutions, in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. Further, and in accordance with state and federal law and guidance, the District may disclose education records to another school for enrollment purposes, which may include exploration of educational placement options by the District or educational placement decisions made by a planning and placement or Section 504 team, or in order to explore placement options for the provision of alternative educational opportunities.

(4)        The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the agency that administers FERPA is:

Student Privacy Policy Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.

Washington, DC 20202-4605

Unless notified in writing by a parent or eligible student to the contrary within two weeks of the date of this notice, the school district will be permitted to disclose "Directory Information" concerning a student, without the consent of a parent or eligible student.  Directory Information includes information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.  It includes, but is not limited to, student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous public or private school attended by the student. The student identification number, however, will not be the only identifier used when obtaining access to education records or data.  Directory information does not include a student’s social security number, student identification number or other unique personal identifier used by the student for purposes of accessing or communicating in electronic systems unless the identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the user’s identity, such as a PIN or password.

The school district may disclose directory information about students after they are no longer in enrollment in the school district.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the district will continue to honor any valid objection to the disclosure of directory information made while a student was in attendance unless the student rescinds the objection.

An objection to the disclosure of directory information shall not prevent the school district from disclosing or requiring a student to disclose the student’s name, identified or institutional email address in a class in which the student is enrolled.  Parents and/or eligible students may not use the right to opt out of directory information disclosures to prohibit the school district from requiring students to wear or display a student identification card.

The written objection to the disclosure of directory information shall be good for only one school year.  School districts are legally obligated to provide military recruiters and institutions of higher learning, upon request, with the names, addresses and telephone numbers of secondary school students, unless the secondary student or the parent of the student objects to such disclosure in writing.  Such objections shall be in writing and shall be effective for one school year.  In all other circumstances, information designated as directory information will not be released when requested by a third party unless the release of such information is determined by the administration to be in the educational interest of the school district and is consistent with the district’s obligations under both state and federal law.

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER THE PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA) (Policy 5126)

 (full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTITSc6bS1hNFEvSuKFot6URSGYNdd4Gj1bMn3HNOHVVAXZhrh7-itORThPvNePVIxNRYXVbs6atPgq/pub)  

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232h, affords parents and eligible students (i.e. students over 18 or emancipated minors) certain rights with respect to the administration of student surveys, the collection and use of personal information, and the administration of certain physical exams.  These rights include:

1. the right of a parent to inspect, upon request, a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed by a school to a student;
2. the right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any survey concerning one or more of the following confidential topics:

1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent;
2. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
3. sex behavior or attitudes;
4. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. legally recognized privileged relationships, such as those with lawyers, doctors, physicians, or ministers;
7. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent; or
8. income, other than as required by law to determine eligibility for certain programs or for receiving financial assistance under such programs;

3. the right of a parent to consent before a student is required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the confidential topics (see #2, above, a-h) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education;
4. the right of a parent or eligible student to receive notice and opt out of a student’s participation in a survey that concerns one or more of the confidential topics (see #2, above, a-h) if the student is not required to submit to such survey, whether the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education or some other source;  
5. the right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.  Instructional material means any instructional content that is provided to a student, regardless of its format, including printed or representational materials, audio-visual materials, and materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the Internet) but does not include academic tests or academic assessments;
6. the right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any instrument used in the collection of personal information from students gathered for the purpose of marketing, selling or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose.  Personal information means individually identifiable information including, a student or parent’s first and last name, a home or other physical address; a telephone number or a social security number;
7. the right of a parent whose student(s) is scheduled to participate in the specific activities provided below to be directly notified of the specific or approximate dates of the following activities, as well as the right of a parent or eligible student to opt-out of participation in these activities:

1. activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information (or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose);
2. the administration of any survey containing confidential topics (see #2, above, a-h) if the survey is either not funded as part of a program administered by the United States Department of Education or is funded by the United States Department of Education but the student is not required to submit to such survey; or
3. any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening that is required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school, scheduled by the school in advance, and unnecessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student.  Such examinations do not include a hearing, vision, or scoliosis screening or other examinations permitted or required by State law.

Parents and eligible students may not opt-out of activities relating to the collection, disclosure, and/or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing education products or services for, or to students or educational institutions, such as the following:

1. college or other post-secondary education recruitment, or military recruitment;
2. book clubs, magazines, and programs providing access to low-cost literary products;
3. curriculum and instructional materials used by elementary and secondary schools;
4. tests and assessments used by elementary and secondary schools to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, clinical, aptitude, or achievement information about students;
5. the sale by students of products or services to raise funds for school-related or education-related activities; and
6. student recognition programs.

To protect student privacy in compliance with the PPRA, the Farmington school district has adopted policies regarding these rights.  Parents and/or eligible students who believe their rights have been violated under the PPRA may contact:

Student Privacy Policy Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C.  20202-5920

WELLNESS (Policy 5140) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vRA0OxbItxYLVbFBY3z378rQi93woH3Z6n6T0O_yMLE15zWhHXRxHnYF67Beu-u7VuHBdJO3nYM-xe_/pub)

        It is the policy of the Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) to promote the health and well-being of district students.  In furtherance of this policy, the Board has created an Advisory Council on Wellness (“Advisory Council”) to review any available state or federal guidance on wellness issues and to assist in formulating recommendations for specific goals and guidelines aimed at promoting lifelong wellness practices among district students.  This Advisory Council involves parents, students, representatives from the school food authority (i.e. any private company employed to provide food services), teachers of physical education, school health professionals, school administrators, the Board, and members of the public and may also involve Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”) coordinators or educators.  The Advisory Council will be involved in the development and implementation of the policy, the triennial assessment and periodic updating of the policy.

GOALS AND GUIDELINES

The Board, following consultation with the Advisory Council, adopts the following goals and guidelines in order to promote student wellness:

1. Nutrition Education, Promotion and School Food

1. All foods provided by the school’s dining services provider meet or exceed the National School Lunch Program Standards for nutritional value.
2. All sold food and beverages offered to students during the school day must meet the guidelines for Health Food Certification.
3. Nutrition education is included as part of health education, K to 12.
4. All families are provided with information about the Federal Child Nutrition Program including application procedures.
5. Non-sold food offered to students during the school day will align with school handbook policies regarding healthy snacks.
6. Nutrition and health education posters, signage, or displays in the cafeteria and dining areas, classrooms, or hallways promote healthy eating habits and are frequently updated.
7. Information is provided to families through newsletters and the district website on the nutritional content of school meals as well as other information intended to support healthy meal choices.

2. Physical Activity and Other School-Based Activities 

1. All schools provide time for students to engage in daily physical activity including instruction in regular physical education classes, co-curricular activities, before and after-school programs, classroom “movement breaks” and recess.
2. Students participate in a physical education program as an essential component of their K-12 education. The program develops the foundational movement competence, confidence, and persistence to stay physically active for a lifetime.
3. C. Schools partner with community health agencies or organizations for school wellness activities.

3. Guidelines for the Marketing of Food on Campus

Food or beverage marketing on campus during school hours shall only be permitted of foods and beverages that may be sold on the school campus during the school day and that comply with competitive food standards.  Food marketing includes oral, written or graphic statements made for the purpose of promoting the sale of a food or beverage, product made by the producer, manufacturer, seller or any other entity with a commercial interest in the product.  Food marketing includes the marketing of food or beverages on the exterior of vending machines, through posters, menu boards, coolers, trash cans and other food service equipment, as well as cups used for beverage dispensing.  

II.        MEASURING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF WELLNESS POLICY

        A.        Oversight of the Wellness Policy

        Pursuant to this policy, the Board shall designate one administrator to be responsible for the implementation and oversight of the school district’s wellness program in collaboration with the Advisory Council and the Department Chair of HPEW.  The administrator will be responsible for ensuring that the goals and guidelines relating to nutrition promotion and education, physical activity, school-based wellness activities and nutritional value of school-provided food and beverages are met, that there is compliance with the wellness policy, and that all school policies and school-based activities are consistent with the wellness policy.  

B.        Triennial Assessment

        At least every three years, the Board will measure and make available to the public an assessment on the implementation of the wellness policy.  In this triennial assessment, the Board will indicate the extent to which schools are in compliance with the wellness policy and how the Board’s wellness policy compares with model school wellness policies.  In addition, the triennial assessment will provide a description of the progress made in attaining the goals of the wellness policy and will provide the basis for appropriate updates or modification to the wellness policy.  

        C.        Informing and Updating the Public

        In accordance with federal law and applicable regulations, the Board will inform and update the public (including parents, students and others in the community) about the content and implementation of its wellness policy as well as the results of the triennial assessment.  The results of the triennial assessment will be made available in an accessible and easily understood manner.  The Board will make its wellness policy and any updates to the policy available to the public on an annual basis.

        D.        Recordkeeping

        The Board of Education will retain records to document compliance with the local school wellness policy requirements.  The Board shall retain the Wellness Policy, documentation demonstrating compliance with community involvement requirements, documentation of the triennial assessment and documentation to demonstrate compliance with public notification requirements.

NOTICE OF PARENT/STUDENT RIGHTS

UNDER SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

AND TITLE II OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990 (Policy 5147) (full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQ_RFfwESXhodj3wHXS9GOK04mocbRvpW5Ct-Led6v_bWTFhgbGDh8fRRO-izj7TDeEdd4C3BDhR3FV/pub)  

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) is a non-discrimination statute enacted by the United States Congress.  Section 504 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by recipients of federal funds.  Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA” or “Title II”) also prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by state and local governments.  To be protected under Section 504 and the ADA (“collectively, “Section 504/ADA”) as an individual with a disability, an individual must (1) have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; (2) have a record of such an impairment; or (3) be regarded as having such an impairment.  

Under Section 504, the Farmington Public Schools (the “District”) has specific responsibilities to identify, evaluate and provide an educational placement for students with a disability.  The District’s obligation includes providing such eligible students a free appropriate public education (“FAPE”).  Section 504 defines FAPE as the provision of regular or special education and related services that are designed to meet the individual educational needs of a student with a disability as adequately as the needs of students without disabilities are met, and that are provided without cost (except for fees similarly  imposed on nondisabled students/parents).  

A student is eligible for regular or special education and related services under Section 504 if it is determined that the student has a mental or physical disability that substantially limits one or more major life activity such as (but not limited to): caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating or working.  A major life activity may also include the operation of a major bodily function, such as an individual’s immune, digestive, respiratory or circulatory systems.

A student can have a disability and be covered by Section 504/ADA even if the student does not qualify for, or receive, special education services under the IDEA.  

The purpose of this notice is to provide parents/guardians and students 18 years of age or older with information regarding their rights under Section 504.  Under Section 504, you have the right:

1. To be informed of your rights under Section 504;
2. To have your child take part in and receive benefits from the District’s education programs without discrimination based on your child’s disability;
3. For your child to have equal opportunities to participate in academic, nonacademic and extracurricular activities in your school without discrimination based on your child’s disability;
4. To be notified of decisions and the basis for decisions regarding the identification, evaluation, and educational placement of your child under Section 504;
5. If you suspect your child may have a disability, to request an evaluation, at no expense to you and to have an eligibility determination under Section 504 (and if eligible, placement decisions made) by a team of persons who are knowledgeable of your child, the assessment data, and any placement options;
6. If your child is eligible for services under Section 504, for your child to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE).  This includes the right to receive regular or special education and related services that are designed to meet the individual needs of your child as adequately as the needs of students without disabilities are met;
7. For your child to receive reasonable accommodations and services to allow your child an equal opportunity to participate in school, extra-curricular and school-related activities;
8. For your child to be educated with peers who do not have disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate;
9. To have your child educated in facilities and receive services comparable to those provided to non-disabled students;
10. To review all relevant records relating to decisions regarding your child’s Section 504 identification, evaluation, and educational placement;
11. To examine or obtain copies of your child’s educational records at a reasonable cost unless the fee would effectively deny you access to the records;
12. To request changes in the educational program of your child, to have your request and related information considered by the team, a decision made by the team, and if denied, an explanation for the team’s decision/determination;
13. To request an impartial due process hearing if you disagree with the District’s decisions regarding your child’s Section 504 identification, evaluation or educational placement.  The costs for this hearing are borne by the District.  You and the student have the right to take part in the hearing and to have an attorney represent you at your expense;
14. To file a local grievance/complaint with the District’s designated Section 504/ADA Coordinator to resolve complaints of discrimination including, but not limited to, claims of discrimination directly related to the identification, evaluation or placement of your child; and
15. To file a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights.

The Section 504/ADA Coordinator for the District is:

Seamus Cullinan, Director of Special Services

Farmington Public Schools

1 Monteith Drive

Farmington, CT 06032

(860) 673-8270

cullinans@fpsct.org

For additional assistance regarding your rights under Section 504 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, you may contact:

Office for Civil Rights, Boston Office

U.S. Department of Education

8th Floor

5 Post Office Square

Boston, MA  02109-0111

(617) 289-0111

BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION/SAFE SCHOOL CLIMATE PLAN (Policy 5131.911)

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTm2wkwcqtgLaw-B4MhVpGoTCc1ODEZ_gqa8CYDALDRVquAmcTdXnywrOnYGqqoDYGmu2cWzIyNZkbF/pub)

The Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) is committed to creating and maintaining a physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe educational environment free from bullying, teen dating violence, harassment and discrimination.  In order to foster an atmosphere conducive to learning, the Board has developed the following Safe School Climate Plan, consistent with state law and Board policy.  This Plan represents a comprehensive approach to addressing bullying, cyberbullying and teen dating violence and sets forth the Board’s expectations for creating a positive school climate and thus preventing, intervening, and responding to incidents of bullying and teen dating violence.  

Bullying behavior and teen dating violence are strictly prohibited, and students who are determined to have engaged in such behavior are subject to disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion from school.  The district’s commitment to addressing bullying behavior and teen dating violence, however, involves a multi-faceted approach, which includes education and the promotion of a positive school climate in which bullying will not be tolerated by students or school staff.

I.        Prohibition Against Bullying, Teen Dating Violence and Retaliation

A.        The Board expressly prohibits any form of bullying behavior and teen dating violence on school grounds; at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function or program whether on or off school grounds; at a school bus stop; on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by a local or regional board of education; or through the use of an electronic device or an electronic mobile device owned, leased or used by the Board.

B.        The Board also prohibits any form of bullying behavior outside of the school setting if such bullying (i) creates a hostile environment at school for the student against whom such bullying was directed, (ii) infringes on the rights of the student against whom such bullying was directed at school, or (iii) substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

C.        The Board further prohibits any form of teen dating violence outside of the school setting if such violence substantially disrupts the educational process.

D.        In addition to prohibiting student acts that constitute bullying, the Board also prohibits discrimination and/or retaliation against an individual who reports or assists in the investigation of an act of bullying.

E.        Students who engage in bullying behavior or teen dating violence in violation of Board policy and the Safe School Climate Plan shall be subject to school discipline, up to and including expulsion, in accordance with the Board's policies on student discipline, suspension and expulsion, and consistent with state and federal law.  

II.        Definition of Bullying 

A.        “Bullying” means an act that is direct or indirect and severe, persistent or pervasive, which:

(1)        causes physical or emotional harm to an individual; 

(2)        places an individual in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm; or

(3)        infringes on the rights or opportunities of an individual at school.

B.        Bullying shall include, but need not be limited to, a written, oral or electronic communication or physical act or gesture based on any actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, socioeconomic status, academic status, physical appearance, or mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability, or by association with an individual or group who has or is perceived to have one or more of such characteristics.

III.        Other Definitions

A.        “Cyberbullying” means any act of bullying through the use of the Internet, interactive and digital technologies, cellular mobile telephone or other mobile electronic devices or any electronic communications.

B.        “Electronic communication” means any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photoelectronic or photo-optical system.

C.        “Emotional intelligence” means the ability to (1) perceive, recognize and understand emotions in oneself or others, (2) use emotions to facilitate cognitive activities, including, but not limited to, reasoning, problem solving and interpersonal communications, (3) understand and identify emotions, and (4) manage emotions in oneself and others.

D.        “Hostile environment” means a situation in which bullying among students is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the school climate.

E.        “Mobile electronic device” means any hand-held or other portable electronic equipment capable of providing data communication between two or more individuals, including, but not limited to, a text messaging device, a paging device, a personal digital assistant, a laptop computer, equipment that is capable of playing a video game or a digital video disk, or equipment on which digital images are taken or transmitted.

F.        “Outside of the school setting” means at a location, activity or program that is not school related, or through the use of an electronic device or a mobile electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by the Board.

G.        “Positive school climate” means a school climate in which (1) the norms, values, expectations and beliefs that support feelings of social, emotional and physical safety are promoted, (2) students, parents, and guardians of students and school employees feel engaged and respected and work together to develop and contribute to a shared school vision, (3) educators model and nurture attitudes that emphasize the benefits and satisfaction gained from learning, and (4) each person feels comfortable contributing to the operation of the school and care of the physical environment of the school. 

H.        “Prevention and intervention strategy” may include, but is not limited to, 

(1)        implementation of a positive behavioral interventions and supports process or another evidence-based model approach for safe school climate or for the prevention of bullying identified by the Department of Education, 

(2)        school rules prohibiting bullying, teen dating violence, harassment and intimidation and establishing appropriate consequences for those who engage in such acts, 

(3)        adequate adult supervision of outdoor areas, hallways, the lunchroom and other specific areas where bullying is likely to occur, 

(4)        inclusion of grade-appropriate bullying and teen dating violence education and prevention curricula in kindergarten through high school, 

(5)        individual interventions with the bully, parents and school employees, and interventions with the bullied child, parents and school employees, 

(6)        school-wide training related to safe school climate, 

(7)        student peer training, education and support,  

(8)        promotion of parent involvement in bullying prevention through individual or team participation in meetings, trainings and individual interventions, and

(9)        culturally competent school-based curriculum focusing on social-emotional learning, self-awareness and self-regulation.

I.        “School climate” means the quality and character of school life based on patterns of students’, parents’ and guardians’ and school employees’ experiences of school life, including but not limited to, norms, goals, values, interpersonal relationships, teaching and learning practices and organizational structures.

J.        “School employee” means 

(1)        a teacher, substitute teacher, school administrator, school superintendent, guidance counselor, school counselor, psychologist, social worker, nurse, physician, school paraprofessional or coach employed by the Board or working in a public elementary, middle or high school; or 

(2)        any other individual who, in the performance of the individual’s duties, has regular contact with students and who provides services to or on behalf of students enrolled in a public elementary, middle or high school, pursuant to a contract with the Board.

K.        “School-Sponsored Activity” shall mean any activity conducted on or off school property (including school buses and other school-related vehicles) that is sponsored, recognized or authorized by the Board.

L.        “Social and emotional learning” means the process through which children and adults achieve emotional intelligence through the competencies of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making. 

M.        “Teen dating violence” means any act of physical, emotional or sexual abuse, including stalking, harassing and threatening, that occurs between two students who are currently in or who have recently been in a dating relationship.

IV.        Leadership and Administrative Responsibilities 

A.        Safe School Climate Coordinator

        The Superintendent shall appoint, from existing school district staff, a District Safe School Climate Coordinator (“Coordinator”).  The Coordinator shall:

(1)        be responsible for implementing the district’s Safe School Climate Plan (“Plan”);

(2)        collaborate with Safe School Climate Specialists, the Board, and the Superintendent to prevent, identify and respond to bullying in district schools;

(3)        provide data and information, in collaboration with the Superintendent, to the Department of Education regarding bullying; and

(4)        meet with Safe School Climate Specialists at least twice during the school year to discuss issues relating to bullying in the school district and to make recommendations concerning amendments to the district’s Plan.

B.        Safe School Climate Specialist

        The Principal of each school (or principal’s designee) shall serve as the Safe School Climate Specialist.  The Safe School Climate Specialist shall investigate or supervise the investigation of reported acts of bullying, collect and maintain records of reports and investigations of bullying in the school and act as the primary school official responsible for preventing, identifying and responding to reports of bullying in the school.

V.        Development and Review of Safe School Climate Plan

A.        The Principal of each school shall establish a committee or designate at least one existing committee (“Committee”) in the school to be responsible for developing and fostering a safe school climate and addressing issues relating to bullying in the school.  Such committee shall include:

1. at least one parent/guardian of a student enrolled in the school, as appointed by the school principal; 
2. school personnel, including, but not limited to, at least one teacher selected by the exclusive bargaining representative for certified employees;
3. medical and mental health personnel assigned to such school; and
4. in the case of a committee for a high school, at least one student enrolled at such high school who is selected by the students of such school in a manner determined by the school principal.

B.        The Committee shall:  

(1)        receive copies of completed reports following bullying investigations; 

(2)        identify and address patterns of bullying among students in the school; 

(3)        implement the provisions of the school security and safety plan,  regarding the collection, evaluation and reporting of information relating to instances of disturbing or threatening behavior that may not meet the definition of bullying, 

(4)        review and amend school policies relating to bullying; 

(5)        review and make recommendations to the Coordinator regarding the Safe School Climate Plan based on issues and experiences specific to the school; 

(6)        educate students, school employees and parents/guardians on issues relating to bullying; 

(7)        collaborate with the Coordinator in the collection of data regarding bullying; and 

(8)        perform any other duties as determined by the Principal that are related to the prevention, identification and response to school bullying. 

C.        Any parent/guardian or student serving as a member of the Committee shall not participate in any activities which may compromise the confidentiality of any student, including, but not limited to, receiving copies of investigation reports, or identifying or addressing patterns of bullying among students in the school.  

D.        The Board shall approve the Safe School Climate Plan developed pursuant to Board policy and submit such plan to the Department of Education. Not later than thirty (30) calendar days after approval by the Board, the Board shall make such plan available on the Board's and each individual school in the school district's web site and ensure that the Safe School Climate Plan is included in the school district's publication of the rules, procedures and standards of conduct for schools and in all student handbooks.  

VI.        Procedures for Reporting and Investigating Complaints of Bullying

A.        Students and parents (or guardians of students) may file written reports of bullying.  Written reports of bullying shall be reasonably specific as to the basis for the report, including the time and place of the alleged conduct, the number of incidents, the target of the suspected bullying, and the names of potential witnesses.  Such reports may be filed with any building administrator and/or the Safe School Climate Specialist (i.e., building principal or designee), and all reports shall be forwarded to the Safe School Climate Specialist for review and actions consistent with this Plan. 

B.        Students may make anonymous reports of bullying to any school employee.  Students may also request anonymity when making a report, even if the student’s identity is known to the school employee.  In cases where a student requests anonymity, the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee shall meet with the student (if the student’s identity is known) to review the request for anonymity and discuss the impact that maintaining the anonymity of the complainant may have on the investigation and on any possible remedial action.  All anonymous reports shall be reviewed and reasonable action will be taken to address the situation, to the extent such action may be taken that does not disclose the source of the report, and is consistent with the due process rights of the student(s) alleged to have committed acts of bullying.  No disciplinary action shall be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

C.        School employees who witness acts of bullying or receive reports of bullying shall orally notify the Safe School Climate Specialist, or another school administrator if the Safe School Climate Specialist is unavailable, not later than one (1) school day after such school employee witnesses or receives a report of bullying.  The school employee shall then file a written report not later than two (2) school days after making such oral report.

D.        The Safe School Climate Specialist shall be responsible for reviewing any anonymous reports of bullying and shall investigate or supervise the investigation of all reports of bullying and ensure that such investigation is completed promptly after receipt of any written reports.  The Safe School Climate Specialist shall also be responsible for promptly notifying the parents or guardians of the student alleged to have committed an act or acts of bullying, and the parents or guardians of the student against whom such alleged act or acts were directed, that an investigation has commenced.  In order to allow the district to adequately investigate complaints filed by a student or parent/guardian, the parent of the student suspected of being bullied should be asked to provide consent to permit the release of that student’s name in connection with the investigation process, unless the student and/or parent has requested anonymity.

E.        In investigating reports of bullying, the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee will consider all available information known, including the nature of the allegations and the ages of the students involved.  The Safe School Climate Specialist will interview witnesses, as necessary, reminding the alleged perpetrator and other parties that retaliation is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

VII.        Responding to Verified Acts of Bullying

A.        Following investigation, if acts of bullying are verified, the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee shall notify the parents or guardians of the students against whom such acts were directed as well as the parents or guardians of the students who commit such acts of bullying of the finding not later than forty-eight (48) hours after the investigation is completed.  This notification shall include a description of the school’s response to the acts of bullying; the results of such investigation; and verbally or by electronic mail, if such parents’ or guardians’ electronic mail addresses are known, that such parents of guardians may refer to the plain language explanation of the rights and remedies available under Conn. Gen. Stat. Sections 10-4a and 10-4b once such explanation has been provided to the Board by the Connecticut Social and Emotional Learning and School Climate Advisory Collaborative and published on the Internet website of the Board.  In providing such notification, however, Farmington Public Schools will take care to respect the statutory privacy rights of other students, including the perpetrator of such bullying.  The specific disciplinary consequences imposed on the perpetrator, or personally identifiable information about a student other than the parent/guardian’s own child, may not be disclosed except as provided by law.

B.        In any instance in which bullying is verified, the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee shall invite the parents or guardians of the student against whom such act was directed to a meeting to communicate the measures being taken by the school to ensure the safety of the student/victim and policies and procedures in place to prevent further acts of bullying.  The Safe School Climate Specialist or designee shall also invite the parents or guardians of a student who commits any verified act of bullying to a meeting, separate and distinct from the previously described meeting, to discuss specific interventions undertaken by the school to prevent further acts of bullying.  The invitations may be made simultaneous with the notification described above in Section VII.A.    

C.        If bullying is verified, the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee shall develop a student safety support plan for any student against whom an act of bullying was directed.  Such support plan will include safety measures to protect against further acts of bullying.

D.        A specific written intervention plan shall be developed to address repeated incidents of bullying against a single individual or recurrently perpetrated bullying incidents by the same individual.  The written intervention plan may include counseling, discipline and other appropriate remedial actions as determined by the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee and may also incorporate a student safety support plan, as appropriate.

E.        Notice to Law Enforcement

        If the Principal of a school (or designee) reasonably believes that any act of bullying constitutes a criminal offense, he/she shall notify appropriate law enforcement.  Notice shall be consistent with the Board’s obligations under state and federal law and Board policy regarding the disclosure of personally identifiable student information.  In making this determination, the Principal or designee, may consult with the school resource officer, if any, and other individuals the Principal or designee deems appropriate.  

F.          If a bullying complaint raises a concern about discrimination or harassment on the basis of a legally protected classification (such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability or gender identity or expression), the Safe School Climate Specialist or designee shall also coordinate any bullying investigation with other appropriate personnel within the district as appropriate (e.g. Title IX Coordinator, Section 504 Coordinator, etc.), so as to ensure that any such bullying investigation complies with the requirements of such policies regarding nondiscrimination.   

VIII.        Teen Dating Violence

A.        The school strictly prohibits, and takes very seriously any instances of, teen dating violence, as defined above.  The school recognizes that teen dating violence may take many different forms and may also be considered bullying and/or sexual harassment.

B.        Students and parents (or guardians of students) may bring verbal or written complaints regarding teen dating violence to any building administrator.  The building administrator shall review and address the complaint, which may include referral of the complaint to the Safe School Climate Specialist and/or Title IX Coordinator.

C.        Prevention and intervention strategies concerning teen dating violence shall be implemented in accordance with Section X below.  Discipline, up to and including expulsion, may be imposed against the perpetrator of teen dating violence, whether such conduct occurs on or off campus, in accordance with Board policy and consistent with federal and state law.

IX.        Documentation and Maintenance of Log

A.        Each school shall maintain written reports of bullying, along with supporting documentation received and/or created as a result of bullying investigations, consistent with the Board’s obligations under state and federal law.  Any educational record containing personally identifiable student information pertaining to an individual student shall be maintained in a confidential manner, and shall not be disclosed to third parties without prior written consent of a parent, guardian or eligible student, except as permitted under Board policy and state and federal law.  

B.        The Principal of each school shall maintain a list of the number of verified acts of bullying in the school and this list shall be available for public inspection upon request.  Consistent with district obligations under state and federal law regarding student privacy, the log shall not contain any personally identifiable student information or any information that alone or in combination would allow a reasonable person in the school community to identify the students involved.  Accordingly, the log should be limited to basic information such as the number of verified acts, name of school and/or grade level and relevant date.  The list shall be limited to the number of verified acts of bullying in each school and shall not set out the particulars of each verified act, including, but not limited, to any personally identifiable student information, which is confidential information by law.

C.        The Principal of each school shall report the number of verified acts of bullying in the school annually to the Department of Education in such manner as prescribed by the Commissioner of Education.

X.        Other Prevention and Intervention Strategies

A.        Bullying behavior and teen dating violence can take many forms and can vary dramatically in the nature of the offense and the impact the behavior may have on the victim and other students.  Accordingly, there is no one prescribed response to verified acts of bullying or to teen dating violence.  While conduct that rises to the level of “bullying” or “teen dating violence,” as defined above, will generally warrant traditional disciplinary action against the perpetrator of such bullying or teen dating violence, whether and to what extent to impose disciplinary action (e.g., detention, in-school suspension, suspension or expulsion) is a matter for the professional discretion of the building principal (or responsible program administrator or designee).  No disciplinary action may be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous complaint of bullying.  As discussed below, schools may also consider appropriate alternatives to traditional disciplinary sanctions, including age-appropriate consequences and other restorative or remedial interventions.  

B.        A specific written intervention plan shall be developed to address repeated incidents of bullying against a single individual or recurrently perpetrated bullying incidents by the same individual. This plan may include safety provisions, as described above, for students against whom acts of bullying have been verified and may include other interventions such as counseling, discipline, and other appropriate remedial or restorative actions as determined by the responsible administrator.

C.        The following sets forth possible interventions, which may also be utilized to enforce the Board’s prohibition against bullying and teen dating violence:

(1)        Non-disciplinary interventions 

When verified acts of bullying are identified early and/or when such verified acts of bullying do not reasonably require a disciplinary response, students may be counseled as to the definition of bullying, its prohibition, and their duty to avoid any conduct that could be considered bullying.  Students may also be subject to other forms of restorative discipline or remedial actions, appropriate to the age of the students and nature of the behavior.

If a complaint arises out of conflict between students or groups of students, peer or other forms of mediation may be considered.  Special care, however, is warranted in referring such cases to peer mediation.  A power imbalance may make the process intimidating for the victim and therefore inappropriate.  In such cases, the victim should be given additional support.  Alternatively, peer mediation may be deemed inappropriate to address the concern.

When an act or acts of teen dating violence are identified, the students involved may be counseled as to the seriousness of the conduct, the prohibition of teen dating violence, and their duty to avoid any such conduct.  Students may also be subject to other forms of restorative discipline or remedial actions, appropriate to the age of the students and nature of the behavior.

(2)        Disciplinary interventions

When acts of bullying are verified or teen dating violence occurs, and a disciplinary response is warranted, students are subject to the full range of disciplinary consequences.  Anonymous complaints of bullying, however, shall not be the basis for disciplinary action.

In-school suspension and suspension may be imposed only after informing the accused perpetrator of the reasons for the proposed suspension and giving him/her an opportunity to explain the situation, in accordance with the Board’s Student Discipline policy.  

Expulsion may be imposed only after a hearing before the Board of Education, a committee of the Board or an impartial hearing officer designated by the Board of Education in accordance with the Board’s Student Discipline policy.  This consequence shall normally be reserved for serious incidents of bullying and teen dating violence, and/or when past interventions have not been successful in eliminating bullying behavior.  

(3)        Interventions for bullied students and victims of teen dating violence

The building principal (or other responsible program administrator) or designee shall intervene in order to address incidents of bullying or teen dating violence against a single individual.  Intervention strategies for a bullied student or victim of teen dating violence may include the following:

1. Referral to a school counselor, psychologist or other appropriate social or mental health service;
2. Increased supervision and monitoring of student to observe and intervene in bullying situations or instances of teen dating violence;
3. Encouragement of student to seek help when targeted or witnessing another being targeted;
4. Peer mediation or other forms of mediation, where appropriate; 
5. Student Safety Support plan; 
6. Restitution and/or restorative interventions; and
7. Periodic follow-up by the Safe School Climate Specialist and/or Title IX Coordinator with the bullied student or victim of teen dating violence.

(4)        General prevention and intervention strategies

In addition to the prompt investigation of complaints of bullying and direct intervention when acts of bullying are verified, other district actions may ameliorate potential problems with bullying in school or at school-sponsored activities.  Additional district actions may also ameliorate potential problems with teen dating violence.  While no specific action is required, and school needs for specific prevention and intervention strategies may vary from time to time, the following list of potential prevention and intervention strategies shall serve as a resource for administrators, teachers and other professional employees in each school.  Such prevention and intervention strategies may include, but are not limited to:

1. School rules prohibiting bullying, teen dating violence, harassment and intimidation and establishing appropriate consequences for those who engage in such acts;
2. Adequate adult supervision of outdoor areas, hallways, the lunchroom and other specific areas where bullying or teen dating violence are likely to occur;
3. Inclusion of grade-appropriate bullying and teen dating violence education and prevention curricula in kindergarten through high school, which may include instruction regarding building safe and positive school communities including developing healthy relationships and preventing dating violence as deemed appropriate for older students;
4. Individual interventions with the perpetrator, parents and school employees, and interventions with the bullied student, parents and school employees;
5. School-wide training related to safe school climate, which training may include Title IX sex discrimination/sexual harassment prevention training, Section 504/ADA training, cultural diversity/multicultural education or other training in federal and state civil rights legislation or other topics relevant to safe school climate;
6. Student peer training, education and support; 
7. Promotion of parent involvement in bullying prevention through individual or team participation in meetings, trainings and individual interventions;
8. Implementation of a positive behavioral interventions and supports process or another evidence-based model approach for a safe school climate or for the prevention of bullying and teen dating violence, including any such program identified by the Department of Education;
9. Respectful responses to bullying and teen dating violence concerns raised by students, parents or staff;
10. Planned professional development programs addressing prevention and intervention strategies, which training may include school violence prevention, conflict resolution and prevention of bullying and teen dating violence, with a focus on evidence based practices concerning same;
11. Use of peers to help ameliorate the plight of victims and include them in group activities;
12. Avoidance of sex-role stereotyping;
13. Continuing awareness and involvement on the part of school employees and parents with regards to prevention and intervention strategies; 
14. Modeling by teachers of positive, respectful, and supportive behavior toward students;
15. Creating a school atmosphere of team spirit and collaboration that promotes appropriate social behavior by students in support of others;
16. Employing classroom strategies that instruct students how to work together in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere; and
17. Culturally competent school-based curriculum focusing on social-emotional learning, self-awareness and self-regulation.

D.        In addition to prevention and intervention strategies, administrators, teachers and other professional employees may find opportunities to educate students about bullying and help eliminate bullying behavior through class discussions, counseling, and reinforcement of socially-appropriate behavior.  Administrators, teachers and other professional employees should intervene promptly whenever they observe mean-spirited student conduct, even if such conduct does not meet the formal definition of “bullying.”

E.        Funding for the school-based bullying intervention and school climate improvement strategy may originate from public, private, federal or philanthropic sources.

XI.        Improving School Climate

The Farmington Public Schools is committed to fostering a positive school climate that is physically, emotionally and intellectually safe and thus free from bullying harassment and discrimination. As a school district committed to continuous improvement, the Farmington schools will utilize data to drive improvement efforts in the area of continuous improvement school climate. School Development Plans will reflect efforts in fostering a positive school climate in all schools K-12.

XII.        Annual Notice and Training

A.        Students, and parents or guardians of students shall be notified annually of the process by which students may make reports of bullying.

B.        The Board shall provide for the inclusion of language in student codes of conduct concerning bullying.

C.        At the beginning of each school year, each school shall provide all school employees with a written or electronic copy of the school district’s safe school climate plan and require that all school employees annually complete training on the identification, prevention and response to bullying as required by law.

D.        As required by state law, the Board, after consultation with the Department of Education and the Social and Emotional Learning and School Climate Advisory Collaborative,  shall also provide on its website training materials to school administrators regarding the prevention of and intervention in discrimination against and targeted harassment of students based on such students’ (1) actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, socioeconomic status, academic status, physical appearance or mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability, or (2) association with individuals or groups who have or are perceived to have one or more of such characteristics.

E.        Any person appointed by the district to serve as district safe school climate coordinator shall complete mental health and first aid training offered by the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

XIII.        School Climate Assessments

Biennially, the Board shall require each school in the district to complete an assessment using the school climate assessment instruments, including surveys, approved and disseminated by the Connecticut State Department of Education.  The Board shall collect the school climate assessments for each school in the district and submit such assessments to the Connecticut State Department of Education.

SEX DISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT (STUDENTS) (Policy 5145.5) 

(full policy and regulations available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQxXcH47n_czKEyvSi0F3l1g4eedCWsMOMJ2eccrdRxbV-OCxhdGUZcpY7vWFeGcCyzGMFvHlAhl5JC/pub)

It is the policy of the Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) for the Farmington Public Schools (the “District”) that any form of sex discrimination or sexual harassment is prohibited in the Board’s education programs and activities, whether by students, Board employees or third parties subject to substantial control by the Board. The Board does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education programs or activities that it operates and the Board is required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and its implementing regulations (“Title IX”) and Connecticut law not to discriminate in such a manner.  Discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex includes discrimination or harassment on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation.  Students, Board employees and third parties are required to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful of the rights of students, employees and third parties. Any student or employee who engages in conduct prohibited by this Policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion or termination, respectively.

For conduct to violate Title IX, the conduct must have occurred in an education program or activity of the Board; the conduct must have occurred within the United States of America; and the complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in the education program or activity of the Board. Conduct that does not meet these requirements still may constitute a violation of Connecticut law or another Board policy.

The Superintendent of Schools shall develop Administrative Regulations implementing his Policy in accordance with Title IX and Connecticut law (the “Administrative Regulations”).

Sex discrimination occurs when a person, because of the person’s sex, is denied participation in or the benefits of any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.

Sexual harassment under Title IX means conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following: 

(1) An employee of the Board conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the Board on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (i.e., quid pro quo); 

(2) Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the Board’s education programs or activities; or 

(3) “Sexual assault” as defined in 20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)(v), “dating violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(10), “domestic violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8), or “stalking” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(30).

Sexual harassment under Connecticut law means conduct in a school setting that 1) is sexual in nature; 2) is unwelcome; and 3) denies or limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from a school’s educational program.  Sexual harassment can be verbal, nonverbal or physical.  Sexual violence is a form of sexual harassment.    

Reporting Sex Discrimination or Sexual Harassment

It is the express policy of the Board to encourage victims of sex discrimination and/or sexual harassment to report such claims. Students are encouraged to report complaints of sex discrimination and/or sexual harassment promptly in accordance with the appropriate process set forth in the Administrative Regulations.  The Board directs its employees to respond to such complaints in a prompt and equitable manner. The Board further directs its employees to maintain confidentiality to the extent appropriate and not tolerate any reprisals or retaliation that occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sex discrimination and/or sexual harassment. Any such reprisals or retaliation will result in disciplinary action against the retaliator, up to and including expulsion or termination as appropriate.

Any Board employee with notice of sex discrimination and/or sexual harassment allegations shall immediately report such information to the building principal and/or the Title IX Coordinator, or if the employee does not work in a school building, to the Title IX Coordinator.

The Board’s Title IX Coordinator is the Assistant Superintendent. Any individual may make a report of sex discrimination and/or sexual harassment to any Board employee or directly to a Title IX Coordinator using any one, or multiple, of the following points of contact:

Assistant Superintendent

1 Monteith Drive,

Farmington, CT 06405

wynnek@fpsct.org

(860) 673-8270

Any Board employee in receipt of allegations of sex discrimination or sexual harassment, or in receipt of a formal complaint, shall immediately forward such information to a Title IX Coordinator. Students may also make a report of sexual harassment and/or sex discrimination to the U.S. Department of Education: Office for Civil Rights, Boston Office, U.S. Department of Education, 8th Floor, 5 Post Office Square, Boston, MA  02109-3921 (Telephone (617) 289-0111).  

Students may also make a report of sexual harassment and/or sex discrimination to the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, 450 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT 06103-1835 (Telephone: 860-541-3400 or Connecticut Toll Free Number: 1-800-477-5737).

ADMINISTRATION OF STUDENT MEDICATION IN THE SCHOOLS (Policy 5141.21) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQsh7atnbNKfE7Utn9m5Qvbw50A9i50qknrNQ6AnL7wWjXuJ7ugqmjB8W4KobnoyzOsYNZHBdnjzkaX/pub)

All medications to be taken at school by students during school hours must be brought to the school nurse by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult. This medication must be accompanied by a written order from an authorized prescriber, in accordance with Board policy and state law, along with written authorization of the parent or guardian.  Students who obtain written authorization for self-administration of medication from an authorized prescriber and a parent or guardian, shall be allowed to self-administer medications only after evaluation and approval by the school nurse. Medications covered under this policy include ALL prescription medication and ALL over-the-counter medications, including but not limited to aspirin or aspirin substitutes (Tylenol).

Prescription medications must be brought to school by a parent, guardian or responsible adult in a pharmacy prepared container and labeled with the name of the child, name of the drug, strength, dosage, frequency, name of the authorized prescriber, and date of original prescription. Over-the- counter medications must be brought in their original container with labels intact, and with child's name affixed. The nurse must examine on-site any new medications with the parent or guardian present and develop a plan for the administration of the medication for the student.

Medications may not be administered on field trips except:

• by the school nurse, if a nurse attends the field trip;
• by administrators or teachers who have received specific training on the administration of medication provided by the Farmington Public Schools
• by a parent/guardian on the field trip who administers medication to the parent’s own child, or
• by a student who has approval to self-administer.

Connecticut law requires the school nurse and other qualified school personnel in all public schools to maintain epinephrine in cartridge injectors (EpiPens) for the purpose of administering emergency first aid to students who experience allergic reactions and do not have a prior written authorization of a parent or guardian or a prior written order of a qualified medical professional for the administration of epinephrine. State law permits the parent or guardian of a student to submit a written directive to the school nurse or school medical advisor that epinephrine shall not be administered to such student in emergency situations. Please see the Refusal to Permit Administration of Epinephrine for Emergency First Aid form associated with this Board policy or request a copy of the form from the school nurse if you wish to opt-out of administration of this medication.

Connecticut law authorizes the school nurse and other qualified school personnel in all public schools to maintain opioid antagonists (Narcan) for the purpose of administering emergency first aid to students who experience an opioid-related drug overdose and do not have a prior written authorization of a parent or guardian or a prior written order of a qualified medical professional for the administration of opioid antagonists. State law permits the parent or guardian of a student to submit a written directive to the school nurse or school medical advisor that opioid antagonists shall not be administered to such student in emergency situations.  Please see the Refusal to Permit Administration of Opioid Antagonists for Emergency First Aid form associated with this Board policy or request a copy of the form from the school nurse if you wish to opt-out of administration of this medication.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE, TRUANCY, AND CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM - NOTIFICATION (Policy 5113.2) 

(full policy and regulations available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vRTq3z0Rdoi_bQUAnYvt6Ag2bm86UQSnFmuGiPF4B-54cUoLcXm2bw8xpXV1Pt8rxVb89d5TW7u4Q6v/pub)  

Regular and punctual student attendance is essential to the educational process. Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-184 provides that “each parent or other person having control of a child five years of age and over and under eighteen years of age shall cause such child to attend a public day school regularly during the hours and terms the public school in the district wherein such child resides is in session, unless such child is a high school graduate or the parent or person having control of such child is able to show that the child is elsewhere receiving equivalent instruction in the studies taught in the public schools. A student who is eighteen years of age or older may withdraw from school. Such student shall personally appear at the school district office and sign a withdrawal form.  Such withdrawal form shall include an attestation from a guidance counselor, school counselor or school administrator of the school that such school district has provided such parent, person or student with information on the educational options available in the school system and community. The parent or person having control of a child seventeen years of age may withdraw such child from school and enroll such child in an adult education program pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Section 10-69. Such parent or person shall personally appear at the school district office and sign an adult education withdrawal and enrollment form. Such adult education withdrawal and enrollment form shall include an attestation (1) from a school counselor or school administrator of the school that such school district has provided such parent or person with information on the educational options available in the school system and in the community, and (2) from such parent or person that such child will be enrolled in an adult education program upon such child's withdrawal from school.  The parent or person having control of a child five years of age shall have the option of not sending the child to school until the child is six years of age and the parent or person having control of a child six years of age shall have the option of not sending the child to school until the child is seven years of age.  The parent or person shall exercise such option by personally appearing at the school district office and signing an option form.  The school district shall provide the parent or person with information on the educational opportunities available in the school system.”

In order to assist parents and other persons in meeting this responsibility, the Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) monitors unexcused student absences and makes reasonable efforts to notify parents or other persons by contacting them when a student fails to report to school.  State law provides that any person who, in good faith, gives or fails to give such notice shall be immune from any liability, civil or criminal, which might otherwise be incurred or imposed and shall have the same immunity with respect to any judicial proceeding which results from such notice or failure to give such notice.  The Board, therefore, must obtain a telephone number or other means of contacting parents or other persons during the school day.

“Absence” - any day during which a student is not considered “in attendance” at the student’s assigned school, or on a school-sponsored activity (e.g. field trip), for at least one half of the school day.

“Excused absence” - a student is considered excused from school if the school has received written documentation describing the reason for the absence within ten (10) school days of the student’s return to school, or if the student has been excluded from school in accordance with Conn. Gen. Stat. § 10-210 (regarding communicable diseases), and the following criteria are met:

a.        Any absence before the student’s tenth (10th) absence is considered excused when the student’s parent/guardian approves such absence and submits appropriate written documentation in accordance with this regulation. 

b.        For the student’s tenth (10th) absence and all absences thereafter, a student’s absences from school are, with appropriate documentation in accordance with this regulation, considered excused only for the following reasons: 

i.        student illness (verified by an appropriately licensed medical professional);

ii.        religious holidays;

iii. mandated court appearances (documentation required);

iv. funeral or death in the family, or other emergency beyond the control of the student’s family;

v.        extraordinary educational opportunities pre-approved by the District administrators and in accordance with Connecticut State Department of Education guidance and this regulation; or

vi. lack of transportation that is normally provided by a district other than the one the student attends.

c.         A student, age five (5) to eighteen (18), inclusive, whose parent or legal guardian is an active duty member of the armed forces who has been called for duty, is on leave from or has immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting, shall be granted ten (10) days of excused absences in any school year, and, in the discretion of the administration, additional excused absences to visit such student’s parent or legal guardian with respect to the parent’s leave or deployment.  In the case of such excused absences, the student and parent or legal guardian are responsible for obtaining assignments from the student’s teacher prior to any period of excused absence, and for ensuring that such assignments are completed by the student prior to the student’s return to school. 

“Excused absence” excludes a student’s engagement in (1) virtual classes, (2) virtual meetings, (3) activities on time-logged electronic systems, and (4) the completion and submission of assignments, if such engagement accounts for not less than one-half of the school day during remote learning.

“In Attendance” - any day during which a student is present at the student’s assigned school, or an activity sponsored by the school, for at least half of the regular school day. 

“Mental health wellness day” - a school day during which a student attends to such student’s emotional and psychological well-being in lieu of attending school.

“Remote learning” means instruction by means of one or more Internet-based software platforms as part of a remote learning model as may be authorized by the Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) in accordance with applicable law.

"Truant" - any student five (5) to eighteen (18) years of age, inclusive, who has four (4) unexcused absences from school in any one month or ten (10) unexcused absences from school in any school year.  

"Unexcused absence" - any absence from a regularly scheduled school day for at least one half of the school day, which is not excused or considered a disciplinary absence.

“Unexcused absence” excludes a student’s engagement in (1) virtual classes, (2) virtual meetings, (3) activities on time-logged electronic systems, and (4) the completion and submission of assignments, if such engagement accounts for not less than one-half of the school day during remote learning.

The determination of whether an absence is excused will be made by the building principal or designee.  Parents or other persons having control of the child may appeal that decision to the Superintendent or designee, whose decision shall be final.

HEALTH ASSESSMENTS/SCREENINGS (Regulations 5141.3A) 

(full regulations available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTIlLjUM_bjaGxw0YwsRGm83fzTTtw7F_jnXqOJs_gvQANuiGfZW3yMrIyC_JqyP4P1wkgqNS_5zeOP/pub)   

The Farmington Board of Education (the “Board’) requires each student enrolled in the Farmington Public Schools (the “District”) to undergo health assessments as mandated by state law.

Prior to enrollment in the District, each year of PreK, before entering kindergarten, and in grade 6 and grade 10, each student must undergo a health assessment, which shall include: 

(a) a physical examination which includes hematocrit or hemoglobin tests, height, weight, blood pressure, and a chronic disease assessment which shall include, but not be limited to, asthma.  The assessment form shall include (1) a check box for the provider conducting the assessment, to indicate an asthma diagnosis, (2) screening questions relating to appropriate public health concerns to be answered by the parent or guardian, and (3) screening questions to be answered by such provider;

(b)  immunizations as required by state law; 

(c) vision, hearing, speech and gross dental screenings; 

(d) such other information, including health and developmental history, as the physician feels is necessary and appropriate.

The Board shall provide such assessments free of charge to students whose parents or guardians meet the eligibility requirements for free and reduced price meals under the National School Lunch Program or for free milk under the special milk program.

The Board will provide annually to each student enrolled in kindergarten and grades one and three to five, inclusive, a vision screening.

The Board will provide annually to each student enrolled in kindergarten and grades one and three through five, inclusive, audiometric screening for hearing.

The Board will provide postural screenings for (1) each female student in grades five and seven, and (2) each male student in grade eight or nine.

IMMUNIZATIONS (Regulations 5141.4A) 

(full regulations available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTolp9SYs7gK0x-n9DA2DKYMS8aza62e3PR3RsoX0hnrNp6O9gaz-Uv8xbHcFCaI_ZKf8W7qwTJuRxq/pub)

In accordance with state law and accompanying regulations, the Farmington Public Schools (the “District”) requires each child to be protected by adequate immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles, mumps, rubella, haemophilus influenzae type B, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, varicella, pneumococcal diseases, meningococcal disease and any other vaccine required by the schedule for active immunization as determined by the Commissioner of Public Health pursuant to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 19a-7f, before being permitted to enroll in any program or school under its jurisdiction.

Exemption from the applicable requirements of these administrative regulations shall be granted to any child who, before being permitted to enroll:

1. presents a certificate from a physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse or local health agency stating that initial immunizations have been given to such child and additional immunizations are in process

(A)  under guidelines and schedules specified by the Commissioner of Public Health; or

(B)         in the case of a child enrolled in a preschool program or other prekindergarten program who, prior to April 28, 2021, was exempt from the applicable immunization requirements upon presentation of a statement that such immunizations would be contrary to the religious beliefs of such child or the parents or guardian of such child, as such additional immunizations are recommended, in a written declaration, in a form prescribed by the Commissioner of Public Health, for such child by a physician, a physician assistant or an advanced practice registered nurse. Such statement of religious beliefs shall be acknowledged by a judge of a court of record or a family support magistrate, a clerk or deputy clerk of a court having a seal, a town clerk, a notary public, a justice of the peace, an attorney admitted to the bar of this state, or a school nurse; or

2. presents a certificate, in a form prescribed by the Commissioner of Public Health pursuant to Section 7 of Public Act No. 21-6, from a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse stating that in the opinion of a such physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered nurse such immunization is medically contraindicated because of the physical condition of such child;

3. in the case of measles, mumps or rubella, presents a certificate from a physician, physician assistant or advanced practice registered nurse or from the Director of Health in such child’s present or previous town of residence, stating that the child has had a confirmed case of such disease; or

4. in the case of haemophilus influenzae type B, has passed such child’s fifth birthday; or

5. in the case of pertussis, has passed such child’s sixth birthday.

Exemptions Based on Religious Beliefs

A.        Children Enrolled in Kindergarten Through Twelfth Grade On or Before April 28, 2021  

The immunization requirements shall not apply to any child who is enrolled in kindergarten through twelfth grade on or before April 28, 2021 if: 

1. such child presented a statement, prior to April 28, 2021, from the parents or guardians of such child that such immunization is contrary to the religious beliefs of such child or the parents or guardians of such child, and 
2. such statement was acknowledged by a judge of a court of record or a family support magistrate, a clerk or deputy clerk of a court having a seal, a town clerk, a notary public, a justice of the peace, an attorney admitted to the bar of the State of Connecticut, or a school nurse.

B.        Students Who Transfer from Another Public or Private School in Connecticut

The immunization requirements set forth in Section I of this policy shall not apply to any student who:

1. transfers to the District from another public or private school in Connecticut, and
2. was enrolled in kindergarten through twelfth grade in the other public or private school on or before April 28, 2021, and
3. presented a statement, prior to April 28, 2021, from the parents or guardians of such child that such immunization is contrary to the religious beliefs of such child or the parents or guardians of such child, and such statement was acknowledged by a judge of a court of record or a family support magistrate, a clerk or deputy clerk of a court having a seal, a town clerk, a notary public, a justice of the peace, an attorney admitted to the bar of the State of Connecticut, or a school nurse.

MANAGEMENT PLAN AND GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS WITH FOOD ALLERGIES, GLYCOGEN STORAGE DISEASE AND/OR DIABETES (Policy 5142) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSSeXFfsyJDhnYgbesuQcOa82qcagZ6m_HHw_mTZqEyGXAZFqp99qR60BupxloJ_WJj1VhZ3IIrA4k_/pub)  

The Farmington Public Schools (the “district”) recognize that food allergies, glycogen storage disease (“GSD”) and diabetes may be life threatening.  For this reason, the district is committed to developing strategies and practices to minimize the risk of accidental exposure to life-threatening food allergens and to ensure prompt and effective medical response should a student suffer an allergic reaction while at school.  The district is also committed to appropriately managing and supporting students with glycogen storage disease and diabetes.  The district further recognizes the importance of collaborating with parents, adult students (defined as students age eighteen (18) years of age and older) and appropriate medical staff in developing such practices and encourages strategies to enable the student to become increasingly proactive in the care and management of his/her food allergy, glycogen storage disease or diabetes, as developmentally appropriate.  To this end, the district adopts the following guidelines related to the management of life-threatening food allergies, glycogen storage disease, and diabetes for students enrolled in district schools.

1. Identifying Students with Life-Threatening Food Allergies, Diabetes and/or Glycogen Storage Disease

Early identification of students with life-threatening food allergies, diabetes and/or glycogen storage disease is important.  The district therefore encourages parents/guardians of students and adult students with life-threatening food allergies to notify the school of the allergy, providing as much medical documentation about the extent and nature of the food allergy as is known, as well as any known effective treatment for the allergy.  The district also encourages parents/guardians of students and adult students with GSD and diabetes to notify the school of the disease, providing as much medical documentation about the type of GSD or diabetes, nature of the disease, and current treatment of the student.  

Students with life-threatening food allergies and diabetes are virtually always students with disabilities and should be referred to a Section 504 team, which will make a final determination concerning the student’s eligibility for services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”).  The Section 504 team may determine that the only services needed are in the student’s Individualized Health Care Plan (“IHCP”) and/or Emergency Care Plan (“ECP”); in that case, the IHCP and/or ECP will also serve as the student’s Section 504 plan.  The Section 504 team will also ensure that parents receive appropriate notice and are informed of their rights under Section 504, including their right to request an impartial hearing if they disagree with the provisions in the Section 504 plan.

Students with GSD and less severe food allergies should be referred to a Section 504 team if there is reason to believe that the student’s GSD or food allergy substantially limits a major life activity.  To determine whether a food allergy is severe enough to substantially limit a major life activity, the team should consider the impact on the student when the student has been exposed to the allergen and has not yet received treatment.

Major life activities include, but are not limited to:

(i) Caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, sitting, reaching, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, interacting with others, and working; and

(ii) The operation of a major bodily function, including functions of the immune system, special sense organs and skin; normal cell growth; and digestive, genitourinary, bowel, bladder, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, cardiovascular, endocrine, hemic, lymphatic, musculoskeletal, and reproductive functions.  The operation of a major bodily function includes the operation of an individual organ within a body system. 

Individualized Health Care Plans and Emergency Care Plans

1. If the district obtains medical documentation that a student has a life-threatening food allergy, GSD, or diabetes, the district shall develop an IHCP for the student.  Each IHCP should contain information relevant to the student’s participation in school activities. 
2. The IHCP shall be developed by a group of individuals, which shall include the parents, the adult student, if applicable, and appropriate school personnel.  Such personnel may include, but are not limited to, the school nurse, school or food service administrator(s), classroom teacher(s) and the student, if appropriate.  The school may also consult with the school’s medical advisor, as needed.
3. IHCPs are developed for students with special health needs or whose health needs require daily interventions.  The IHCP describes how to meet the student’s health and safety needs within the school environment and should address the student’s needs across school settings.  Information to be contained in an IHCP should include a description of the functional health issues (diagnoses); student objectives for promoting self-care and age-appropriate independence; and the responsibilities of parents, school nurse and other school personnel.  The IHCP may also include strategies to minimize the allergic student’s risk for exposure.  For the student with life-threatening food allergies, GSD, or diabetes, the IHCP may include strategies designed to ameliorate risks associated with such disease and support the student’s participation in the classroom.  IHCPs for such students may include considerations such as:

1. classroom environment, including allergy-free considerations, or allowing the student with GSD or diabetes to have food/dietary supplements when needed;
2. cafeteria safety;
3. participation in school nutrition programs;
4. snacks, birthdays and other celebrations;
5. alternatives to food rewards or incentives;
6. hand-washing;
7. location of emergency medication;
8. who will provide emergency and routine care in school;
9. risk management during lunch and recess times;
10. special events;
11. field trips, fire drills and lockdowns;
12. extracurricular activities;
13. school transportation;
14. the provision of food or dietary supplements by the school nurse, or any school employee approved by the school nurse;
15. staff notification, including substitutes, and training; and
16. transitions to new classrooms, grades and/or buildings.

4. The IHCP should be reviewed annually, or whenever there is a change in the student’s ECP, changes in self-monitoring and self-care abilities of the student, or following an emergency event requiring the administration of medication or the implementation of other emergency protocols.

5. For a student with a life-threatening food allergy, GSD, or diabetes, the IHCP shall not prohibit a parent or guardian, or a person designated by such parent or guardian, to provide food or dietary supplements to a student with a life-threatening food allergy, GSD, or diabetes on school grounds during the school day.

6. In addition to the IHCP, the district shall also develop an ECP for each student identified as having a life-threatening food allergy.  The ECP is part of the IHCP and describes the specific directions about what to do in a medical emergency.  For the student with a life-threatening food allergy, the ECP should include the following information:  

1. The student’s name and other identifying information, such as date of birth, grade and photo;
2. The student’s specific allergy;
3. The student’s signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction;
4. The medication, if any, or other treatment to be administered in the event of exposure;
5. The location and storage of the medication;
6. Who will administer the medication (including self-administration options, as appropriate);
7. Other emergency procedures, such as calling 911, contacting the school nurse, and/or calling the parents or physician;
8. Recommendations for what to do if the student continues to experience symptoms after the administration of medication; and
9. Emergency contact information for the parents/family and medical provider.

7. In addition to the IHCP, the district shall also develop an ECP for each student identified as having GSD and/or diabetes.  The ECP is part of the IHCP and describes the specific directions about what to do in a medical emergency.  For the student with GSD or diabetes, the ECP should include the following information, as may be appropriate:  

1. The student’s name and other identifying information, such as date of birth, grade and photo;
2. Information about the disease or disease specific information (e.g., type of GSD or diabetes);
3. The student’s signs and symptoms of an adverse reaction (such as hypoglycemia);
4. The medication, if any, or other treatment to be administered in the event of an adverse reaction or emergency (e.g., Glucagon or insulin)
5. The location and storage of the medication;
6. Who will administer the medication (including self-administration options, as appropriate);
7. Other emergency procedures, such as calling 911, contacting the school nurse, and/or calling the parents or physician;
8. Recommendations for what to do if the student continues to experience symptoms after the administration of medication; and
9. Emergency contact information for the parents/family and medical provider.

8. In developing the ECP, the school nurse should obtain current medical documentation from the parents/family and the student’s health care provider, including the student’s emergency plan and proper medication orders.  If needed, the school nurse or other appropriate school personnel, should obtain consent to consult directly with the student’s health care providers to clarify medical needs, emergency medical protocols and medication orders.

9. A student identified as having a life-threatening food allergy, GSD, or diabetes is entitled to an IHCP and an ECP, regardless of his/her status as a student with a disability, as that term is understood under Section 504, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”).

10. The district shall ensure that the information contained in the IHCP and ECP is distributed to any school personnel responsible for implementing any provisions of the IHCP and/or ECP, and that any procedures in the IHCP and/or ECP comply with the district’s policies and procedures regarding the administration of medications to students.  

11. When making eligibility determinations under Section 504 and/or the IDEA, schools must consider the student’s needs on an individualized, case-by-case basis.

Training/Education

1. The district shall provide appropriate education and training for school personnel regarding the management of students with life-threatening food allergies, GSD and diabetes.  Such training may include an overview of life-threatening food allergies, GSD and diabetes; prevention strategies; IHCPs and ECPs; and food safety and sanitation.  Training shall also include, as appropriate for each school (and depending on the specific needs of the individual students at the school), training in the administration of medication with cartridge injectors (e.g., epi-pens), and/or the specific preventative strategies to minimize the risk of exposure to life-threatening allergens and prevent adverse reactions in students with GSD and diabetes (such as the provision of food or dietary supplements for students).  School personnel will also be educated on how to recognize symptoms of allergic reactions and/or symptoms of low blood sugar, as seen with GSD and diabetes, and what to do in the event of an emergency.  Staff training and education will be coordinated by the Director of Health Services or designee in coordination with the Director of Student Services or designee. Any such training regarding the administration of medication shall be done in accordance with state law and Board policy.
2. Each school within the district shall also provide age-appropriate information to students about food allergies, GSD and diabetes, how to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction and/or low blood sugar emergency and the importance of adhering to the school’s policies regarding food and/or snacks.  

Prevention

Each school within the district will develop appropriate practices to minimize the risk of exposure to life-threatening allergens, as well as the risks associated with GSD and diabetes.  Practices that may be considered include, but are not limited to:

1. Encouraging hand washing;
2. Discouraging students from swapping or sharing food at lunch or other snack/meal times;
3. Encouraging the use of non-food items as incentives, rewards or in connection with celebrations;
4. Training staff in recognizing symptoms of anaphylaxis and hypoglycemia; and
5. Planning for school emergencies, to include consideration of the need to access medication, food and/or dietary supplements.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE BY STUDENTS (Policy 5131.6) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTWBeC5Fpeth3YSVfcn1k9tf3VayX8ppEMQeI0j7d-Eml1j6V8zouE31OJ-fneH0aHsWQhKxSwBv5GO/pub)

The Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) is required by Connecticut law to prescribe rules for the management and discipline of its schools.  In keeping with this mandate, the unlawful use, sale, distribution or possession of controlled drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, as defined in Connecticut General Statutes Section 21a-240, or alcohol on or off school property or during any school-sponsored activity is prohibited.  It shall be the policy of the Board to take positive action through education, counseling, discipline, parental involvement, medical referral, and law enforcement referral, as appropriate, in the handling of incidents in the schools involving the unlawful possession, distribution, sale or use of substances that affect behavior.

(1)        Emergencies.

If an emergency situation results from drug or alcohol use, the student shall be sent to the school nurse or medical advisor immediately.  The parent or designated responsible person will be notified.

(2)        Prescribed Medications.

Students may possess and/or self-administer medications in school in accordance with the Board’s policy concerning the administration of medication in school.        

Students taking improper amounts of a prescribed medication, or otherwise taking medication contrary to the provisions of the Board’s policy on the administration of medication, will be subject to the procedures for improper drug or alcohol use outlined in this policy.  

(3)        Voluntary Disclosure of Drug/Alcohol Problem (Self-Referral).

The following procedures will be followed when a student privately, and in confidence, discloses to a professional employee in a professional communication information concerning the student's use, possession, distribution or sale of a controlled drug, controlled substance or alcohol.  

(a)        Professional employees are permitted, in their professional judgment, to disclose any information acquired through a professional communication with a student, when such information concerns alcohol or drug abuse or any alcohol or drug problem of such student.  In no event, however, will they be required to do so.  C.G.S. Section 10-154a(b).

(b)        Any physical evidence obtained from such student through a professional communication indicating that a crime has been or is being committed by the student must be turned over to school administrators or law enforcement officials as soon as possible, but no later than two calendar days after receipt of such physical evidence, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.  Employees are encouraged to contact the school administrator immediately upon obtaining physical evidence.  In no case, however, will such employee be required to disclose the name of the student from whom the evidence was obtained.  C.G.S. Section 10-154a(b).

(c)        Any professional employee who has received a professional communication from a student may obtain advice and information concerning appropriate resources and refer the student accordingly, subject to the rights of the professional employee as described in paragraph (a) above.  

(d)        If a student consents to disclosure of a professional communication concerning the student's alcohol or drug problem, or if the professional employee deems disclosure to be appropriate, the professional employee should report the student's name and problem to the school's building administrator or designee who shall refer the student to appropriate school staff members for intervention and counseling. 

(4)        Involuntary Disclosure or Discovery of Drug/Alcohol Problems.

When a professional employee obtains information related to a student from a source other than the student's confidential disclosure, that the student, on or off school grounds or at a school sponsored activity, is under the influence of, or possesses, uses, dispenses, distributes, administers, sells or aids in the procurement of a controlled drug, controlled substance, drug paraphernalia or alcohol, that information is considered to be involuntarily disclosed.  In this event, the following procedures will apply.

(a)        The professional employee will immediately report the information to the building administrator or designee.  The building administrator or designee will then refer the student to appropriate school staff members for intervention and counseling.

(b)        Any physical evidence (for example, alcohol, drugs or drug paraphernalia) obtained from a student indicating that a crime has been or is being committed by the student must be turned over to the building administrator or designee or to law enforcement officials as soon as possible, but no later than within two calendar days after receipt of such physical evidence, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.  C.G.S. Section 10-154a(b).  Because such evidence was not obtained through a professional communication, the name of the student must be disclosed to the building administrator or designee.

(c)        Search and Seizure of Students and/or Possessions: A professional employee who reasonably suspects that a student is violating a state/federal law or a school substance abuse policy must immediately report such suspicion to the building administrator or designee.  The building administrator or designee may then search a student's person or possessions connected to that person, in accordance with the Board's policies and regulations if the administrator or designee has reasonable suspicion from the inception of the search that the student has violated or is violating either the law or a school substance abuse policy.

        Any physical evidence obtained in the search of a student, or a student's possessions, indicating that the student is violating or has violated a state or federal law must be turned over to law enforcement officials as soon as possible, but not later than within three calendar days after receipt of such physical evidence, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.  C.G.S. Section 10-154a(c).  All school employees are encouraged to contact the school administration immediately upon obtaining physical evidence.  

(5)        Consequences for the Use, Sale, Distribution or Possession of Controlled Drugs, Controlled ubstances, Drug Paraphernalia or Alcohol.

(a)        Any student in the Farmington Public Schools using, consuming, possessing, being under the influence of, manufacturing, distributing, selling or aiding in the procurement of controlled drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia or alcohol either on or off school property, or at a school-sponsored activity, except as such use or possession is in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes § 21a-408a through 408q, is subject to discipline up to and including expulsion pursuant to the Board's student discipline policy.  On and after January 1, 2022, a student shall not face greater discipline, punishment or sanction for the use, sale, or possession of cannabis on school property than a student would face for the use, sale, or possession of alcohol on school property, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

(b)        In conformity with the Board’s student discipline policy, students may be suspended or expelled for drug or alcohol use off school grounds if such drug or alcohol use is considered seriously disruptive of the educational process.  In determining whether the conduct is seriously disruptive of the educational process, the Administration and the Board may consider, among other factors:  1) whether the drug or alcohol use occurred within close proximity of a school; 2) whether other students from the school were involved; and 3) whether any injuries occurred.  

(c)        If a school administrator has reason to believe that any student was engaged, on or off school grounds, in offering for sale or distribution a controlled substance (as defined by Conn. Gen. Stat. § 21a-240(9)), whose manufacturing, distribution, sale, prescription, dispensing, transporting, or possessing with intent to sell or dispense, offering or administering is subject to criminal penalties under Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 21a-277 and 21a-278, the administrator will recommend such student for expulsion, in accordance with Conn. Gen. Stat. § 10-233d(a)(2) and the Board’s student discipline policy.

(d)        Students found to be in violation of this policy may be referred by the building administrator to an appropriate agency licensed to assess and treat drug and alcohol involved individuals.  In such event, assessment and treatment costs will be the responsibility of the parent or guardian.  

(e)        A meeting may be scheduled with appropriate school staff members for the purpose of discussing the school's drug and alcohol policy with the student and parent or guardian.  

(f)        Law enforcement officials may be contacted by the building administrator in the case of suspected involvement in the use, sale or distribution of controlled drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia or alcohol.

CHEMICAL HEALTH POLICY FOR STUDENT ATHLETES (Policy 5141.6) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vS8WRcD8dGtFVorL0Yp7PhHEdT4I_lv0G5ilcu3U8OpOIaPd6X6ZzHvwGdnR4SiraBbXzvKdULCB29C/pub)

The Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) participates in the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (“CIAC”).  In accordance with CIAC participation rules and the Board’s obligation under state and federal law, the Board prohibits the unauthorized use, sale, distribution or possession of controlled drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, performance enhancing substances or alcohol during any school-sponsored athletic activity, whether occurring on or off school property.  This policy applies to all student athletes participating in school-sponsored athletics, whether or not such athletes are participating in CIAC controlled activities.

Any student athlete in the Farmington Public Schools using, consuming, possessing, being under the influence of, manufacturing, distributing, selling or aiding in the procurement of controlled drugs, controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, performance enhancing substances or alcohol, either on or off school property, or at a school-sponsored activity, except as such use or possession is in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes Sections 21a-408a through 408q, is subject to discipline up to and including expulsion pursuant to the Board's student discipline policy.  A student shall not face greater discipline, punishment or sanction for the use, sale, or possession of cannabis on school property than a student would face for the use, sale, or possession of alcohol on school property, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

A student athlete found by the administration to have violated this policy may, in the discretion of school administrators, be suspended from play for short or long term periods, or may have student athletic participation privileges revoked. 

A student athlete found by the administration to have used performance enhancing substances shall receive a minimum penalty of revocation of athletic participation privileges for one hundred eighty (180) days.  The Board shall report the violation to the CIAC. 

The Board recognizes that the CIAC may impose additional sanctions on student athletes participating in CIAC controlled activities who are found to have violated this policy.   

STUDENT DISCIPLINE (Policy 5131) 

(full policy and regulations available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQg6gSlilRuGzSthqDwrhO2tYDl88s-_FpchWP4I-HyRMZuO9SWXVcReS7andBpSPYuW3Aeds42Bu5Z/pub)  

Please review the complete Student Discipline policy (linked above) for comprehensive information concerning the laws and procedures concerning student discipline, including but not limited to definitions of terms and the procedures for student suspensions and expulsions.

Conduct on School Grounds, on School Transportation, or at a School-Sponsored Activity:

1. Suspension.  Students may be suspended for conduct on school grounds, on school transportation, or at any school-sponsored activity that violates a publicized policy of the Board or is seriously disruptive of the educational process or endangers persons or property. 
2. Expulsion.  Students may be expelled for conduct on school grounds, on school transportation, or at any school-sponsored activity that either (1) violates a publicized policy of the Board and is seriously disruptive of the educational process, or (2) endangers persons or property.

Conduct off School Grounds:

Discipline.  Students may be disciplined, including suspension and/or expulsion, for conduct off school grounds if such conduct violates a publicized policy of the Board and is seriously disruptive of the educational process.  

Seriously Disruptive of the Educational Process:

In making a determination as to whether such conduct is seriously disruptive of the educational process, the Administration and the Board of Education may consider, but such consideration shall not be limited to, the following factors:  (1) whether the incident occurred within close proximity of a school;  (2) whether other students from the school were involved or whether there was any gang involvement;  (3) whether the conduct involved violence, threats of violence, or the unlawful use of a weapon, as defined in Section 29-38 of the Connecticut General Statutes, and whether any injuries occurred; and (4) whether the conduct involved the use of alcohol.  The Administration and/or the Board of Education may also consider (5) whether the off-campus conduct involved the illegal use of drugs.

A student shall not have greater discipline, punishment, or sanction for the use, sale, or possession of cannabis on school property than a student would face for the use, sale, or possession of alcohol on school property, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

Actions Leading to Disciplinary Action, including Removal from Class, Suspension and/or Expulsion

Conduct that is considered to violate a publicized policy of the Board of Education includes the offenses described below.  Any such conduct may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to, removal from class, suspension and/or expulsion in accordance with this policy):

1.        Striking or assaulting a student, member of the school staff or other person(s).

2.        Theft.

3.        The use of obscene or profane language or gestures, the possession and/or display of obscenity or pornographic images or the unauthorized or inappropriate possession and/or display of images, pictures or photographs depicting nudity.  

4.        Violation of smoking, dress, transportation regulations, or other regulations and/or policies governing student conduct.

5.        Refusal to obey a member of the school staff, law enforcement authorities, or school volunteers, or disruptive classroom behavior.

6.        Any act of harassment based on an individual's sex, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, disability, national origin, alienage, ancestry, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

7.        Refusal by a student to respond to a staff member’s request for the student to provide the student’s name to a staff member when asked, misidentification of oneself to such person(s), lying to school officials or otherwise engaging in dishonest behavior.

8.        Inappropriate displays of public affection of a sexual nature and/or sexual activity on school grounds, on school transportation, or at a school-sponsored activity.

9.        A walk-out from or sit-in within a classroom or school building or school grounds.

10.        Blackmailing, threatening or intimidating school staff or students (or acting in a manner that could be construed to constitute blackmail, a threat, or intimidation, regardless of whether intended as a joke).

11.        Possession of any weapon, weapon facsimile, deadly weapon, martial arts weapon, electronic defense weapon, pistol, knife, blackjack, bludgeon, box cutter, metal knuckles, pellet gun, air pistol, explosive device, firearm, whether loaded or unloaded, whether functional or not, or any other dangerous object or instrument.  The possession and/or use of any object or device that has been converted or modified for use as a weapon.

12.        Possession of any ammunition for any weapon described above in Paragraph 11.  

13.        Unauthorized entrance into any school facility or portion of a school facility or aiding or abetting an unauthorized entrance.

14.        Possession or ignition of any fireworks, combustible or other explosive materials, or ignition of any material causing a fire.  Possession of any materials designed to be used in the ignition of combustible materials, including matches and lighters.

15.        Possession, sale, distribution, use, or consumption of tobacco, electronic nicotine delivery systems (e.g., e-cigarettes), electronic cannabis delivery system, or vapor products, or the unlawful possession, sale, distribution, use or consumption of drugs, narcotics or alcoholic beverages (or any facsimile of tobacco, drugs, narcotics or alcoholic beverages, or any item represented to be tobacco, drugs or alcoholic beverages), including being under the influence of any such substances or aiding in the procurement of any such substances.  For the purposes of this Paragraph 15, the term “electronic nicotine delivery system” shall mean an electronic device used in the delivery of nicotine or other substances to a person inhaling from the device, and includes, but is not limited to, an electronic cigarette, electronic cigar, electronic cigarillo, electronic pipe or electronic hookah and any related device and any cartridge or other component of such device, including, but not limited to, electronic cigarette liquid.  For purposes of Paragraph 15, the term “electronic cannabis delivery system” shall mean an electronic device that may be used to simulate smoking in the delivery of cannabis to a person inhaling the device and includes, but is not limited to, a vaporizer, electronic pipe, electronic hookah and any related device and any cartridge or other component of such device.   For the purposes of Paragraph 15, the term “vapor product” shall mean any product that employs a heating element, power source, electronic circuit or other electronic, chemical or mechanical means, regardless of shape or size, to produce a vapor that may or may not include nicotine and is inhaled by the user of such product.  For the purposes of this Paragraph 15, 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, including cannabis.  

16.        Sale, distribution, or consumption of substances contained in household items; including, but not limited to glue, paint, accelerants/propellants for aerosol canisters, and/or items such as the aerators for whipped cream; if sold, distributed or consumed for the purpose of inducing a stimulant, depressant, hallucinogenic or mind-altering effect.

17.        Possession of paraphernalia used or designed to be used in the consumption, sale or distribution of drugs, alcohol or tobacco, as described in Paragraph 15 above.  For purposes of this policy, drug paraphernalia includes any equipment, products and materials of any kind which are used, intended for use or designed for use in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, containing or concealing, or injecting, ingesting, inhaling or otherwise introducing controlled drugs or controlled substances into the human body, including but not limited to items such as "bongs," pipes, "roach clips," vials, tobacco rolling papers, and any object or container used, intended or designed for use in storing, concealing, possessing, distributing or selling controlled drugs or controlled substances, including cannabis.   

18.        The destruction of real, personal or school property, such as, cutting, defacing or otherwise damaging property in any way.

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

20.        Trespassing on school grounds while on out-of-school suspension or expulsion.

21.        Making false bomb threats or other threats to the safety of students, staff members, and/or other persons.

22.        Defiance of school rules and the valid authority of teachers, supervisors, administrators, other staff members and/or law enforcement authorities.

23.        Throwing snowballs, rocks, sticks and/or similar objects, except as specifically authorized by school staff.

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

25.        Leaving school grounds, school transportation or a school-sponsored activity without authorization.

26.        Use of or copying of the academic work of another individual and presenting it as the student's own work, without proper attribution; or any other form of academic dishonesty, cheating or plagiarism.  

27.        Possession and/or use of a cellular telephone, radio, portable audio player, CD player, blackberry, personal data assistant, walkie talkie, Smartphone, mobile or handheld device, or similar electronic device, on school grounds, on school transportation, or at a school-sponsored activity in violation of Board policy and/or administrative regulations regulating the use of such devices.

28.        Possession and/or use of a beeper or paging device on school grounds, on school transportation, or at a school-sponsored activity without the written permission of the principal or designee.

29.        Unauthorized use of or tampering with any school computer, computer system, computer software, Internet connection or similar school property or system, or the use of such property or system for inappropriate purposes.

30.        Possession and/or use of a laser pointer, unless the student possesses the laser pointer temporarily for an educational purpose while under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. 

31.         Hazing.

32.        Bullying, defined as an act that is direct or indirect and severe, persistent or pervasive, which:

a.        causes physical or emotional harm to an individual;

b.        places an individual in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm; or

c.        infringes on the rights or opportunities of an individual at school

Bullying shall include, but need not be limited to, a written, oral or electronic communication or physical act or gesture based on any actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, socioeconomic status, academic status, physical appearance, or mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability, or by association with an individual or group who has or is perceived to have one or more of such characteristics.

33.        Cyberbullying, defined as any act of bullying through the use of the Internet, interactive and digital technologies, cellular mobile telephone or other mobile electronic devices or any electronic communications.  

34.        Acting in any manner that creates a health and/or safety hazard for staff members, students, or the public, regardless of whether the conduct is intended as a joke, including but not limited to violating school or district health and safety protocols.  

35.        Engaging in a plan to stage or create a violent situation for the purposes of recording it by electronic means; or recording by electronic means acts of violence for purposes of later publication.  

36.        Engaging in a plan to stage sexual activity for the purposes of recording it by electronic means; or recording by electronic means sexual acts for purposes of later publication.  

37.        Using computer systems, including email, remote learning platforms, instant messaging, text messaging, blogging or the use of social networking websites, or other forms of electronic communications, to engage in any conduct prohibited by this policy.  

38.        Use of a privately owned electronic or technological device in violation of school rules, including the unauthorized recording (photographic or audio) of another individual without permission of the individual or a school staff member.

39.        Engaging in teen dating violence, defined as any act of physical, emotional or sexual abuse, including stalking, harassing and threatening, which occurs between two students who are currently in or who have recently been in a dating relationship.

40.        Any action prohibited by any Federal or State law. 

41.        Any other violation of school rules or regulations or a series of violations which makes the presence of the student in school seriously disruptive of the educational process and/or a danger to persons or property. 

STUDENT USE OF THE DISTRICT’S COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND INTERNET SAFETY (Policy 5134)

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQj9d621iLVzay71Uh1FA2bBG1zw94MtIV5NMyasB-xZPiyqdiCAot5p0tQRe9b5dIAzGYc4JtsRbW4/pub)  

Computers, computer networks, electronic devices, Internet access, and electronic messaging systems are effective and important technological resources.  The Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”) has installed computers and a computer network(s), including Internet access and electronic messaging systems on Board premises and may provide other electronic devices that can access the network(s) and/or have the ability to send and receive messages with an operating system or network communication framework.

These computer systems are expensive to purchase, install and maintain.  As the property of the district, these computer systems must be carefully handled and their integrity preserved for the benefit of all.  Therefore, students are required to adhere to a set of policies and procedures, as set forth in detail below, in conjunction with their use of the computer systems.  Violations may lead to withdrawal of the access privilege and/or disciplinary measures in accordance with the Board’s student discipline policy.

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 district standards and will act in a responsible and legal manner, at all times in accordance with district standards, as well as with state and federal laws.

It is important that students and parents understand that the district, as the owner of the computer systems, reserves the right to monitor and review the use of these computer systems.  The district intends to monitor and review in a limited fashion, but will do so as needed to ensure that the systems are being used for district-related educational purposes.  

As part of the monitoring and reviewing process, the district 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 district's ability to monitor and review is not restricted or neutralized by these devices.  The monitoring and reviewing process also includes, but is not limited to; oversight of Internet site access, the right to review electronic messages sent and received, the right to track students’ access to blogs, electronic bulletin boards and chat rooms, and the right to review a student’s data 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.

Student Conduct

Students are permitted to use the district’s computer systems for legitimate educational purposes.  Personal use of district computer systems is expressly prohibited.  Conduct which constitutes inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to the following:  

• Sending any form of a harassing, threatening, or intimidating message, at any time, to any person (such communications may also be a crime);
• Gaining or seeking to gain unauthorized access to computer systems; 
• Damaging computers, computer files, computer systems or computer networks;
• Downloading or modifying computer software of the district in violation of the district's licensure agreement(s) and/or without authorization from a teacher or administrator; 
• Using another person's password under any circumstances; 
• Trespassing in or tampering with any other person's folders, work or files;
• Sending any message that breaches the district's confidentiality requirements, or the confidentiality of students;
• Sending any copyrighted material over the system;
• Using computer systems for any personal purpose, or in a manner that interferes with the district’s educational programs;
• Accessing or attempting to access any material that is obscene, obscene as to minors, or contains child pornography, as defined above;
• Transmitting or receiving e-mail communications or accessing information on the Internet for non-educational purposes;
• Cyberbullying;
• Accessing or attempting to access social networking sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, etc.) without a legitimate educational purpose.

In addition, as noted above, if a particular behavior or activity is generally prohibited by law, by Board policy or by school rules or regulations, use of these computer systems for the purpose of carrying out such behavior or activity is also prohibited.  

Misuse of the computer systems, or violations of these policies and regulations, may result in loss of access to such computer systems as well as other disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion, depending on the specific conduct.  

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 discuss the issue with a teacher or the school principal immediately.  Most importantly, the Board and the Administration urge any student who receives any harassing, threatening, intimidating or other improper message through the computer system to report this immediately.  It is the Board'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!  

Internet Safety

The Administration will take measures: to assure the digital safety and security of students when using electronic messaging systems, email, chat rooms, distance learning platforms, and other forms of direct electronic communications; to prohibit unauthorized access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online; to prohibit unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personally identifiable information regarding students; to educate minor students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyber-bullying awareness and response; and to restrict students’ access to online materials that are obscene or obscene as to minors or contain child pornography, to the extent practicable when students are using Board-owned computers or devices and Board-provided Internet access.  

Student Use Agreement

Before being allowed to use the district’s computer systems, students and/or their parents/guardians must sign a computer system use agreement, stating that they have read and understood the district’s policies and regulations regarding the use of its computer systems. 

CONNECTICUT STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Complaint Resolution Procedure

Elementary and Secondary Education Act

34 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 299(10)(a)

I. Filing of Complaint

A.        Violation of Law

A written complaint may be filed by an organization or individual with the Connecticut Commissioner of Education alleging that the state educational agency (SEA) or an agency or consortium of agencies is violating a federal statute or regulation that applies to the following applicable programs:

1.        Part A of Title I (Improving Basic Programs Operated by Local Educational Agencies).

2.        Part B, Subpart 1 of Title I (Reading First).

3.        Part B, Subpart 3 of Title I (Even Start Family Literacy Programs).

4.        Part D of Title I (Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At Risk of Dropping Out).

5.        Part A of Title II (Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting Fund).

6.        Part D of Title II (Enhancing Education Through Technology).

7.        Part A of Title III (English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement, and Academic Achievement Act).

8.        Part B, Subpart 4 of Title III (Emergency Immigrant Education Program).

9.        Part A of Title IV (Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities).

10.        Part A of Title V (Innovative Programs).

B.        Review of an Appeal

A written complaint may be filed by an individual with the Connecticut Commissioner of Education appealing the decision of an agency or consortium of agencies based on prior written complaint presented by an individual to such agency or consortium of agencies.

C.        Content of Complaint

The complaint shall be in writing, signed by the complainant and contain the following:

1. A statement that the SEA or an agency or consortium of agencies has violated a requirement of federal statutes or regulation regarding the applicable program, or in the case of an appeal, a statement of aggrievement with the decision rendered by the agency or consortium of agencies based on a prior written complaint.
2. A clear and concise description of the facts on which the statement is based and the specific alleged violation or aggrievement.
3. A description of prior efforts to resolve the complaint, including information demonstrating that the SEA, agency or consortium of agencies has taken action adverse to the complaint or has refused or failed to take action within a reasonable period of time.
4. Complainant's and respondent's name, address and telephone number.
5. Other materials or documents containing information which support or clarify the statement.

2. Review of Complaint

A.        Analysis

Within three business days of the receipt of the complaint, the Commissioner shall assign a review official.  Within five business days of the assignment, the review official shall determine whether the complaint has been properly filed in accordance with Section I.  If necessary, the review official shall interview the complainant.

B.        Dismissal of Complaint

The review official may dismiss the complaint in writing stating an explanation for such action.  The grounds for dismissal shall include, but not limited to, the following:

1.        Failure to file a proper complaint pursuant to Section I.

2.        The allegations fail to state a bona fide violation of federal statute or regulations by the SEA or an agency or consortium of agencies.

3.        The allegations fail to state a bona fide aggrievement with the decision rendered by an agency or consortium of agencies based on prior written complaint.

4.        The allegations were not caused by the actions or failure to act by the SEA, agency or consortium of agencies.

III.        Notification of Complaint and Investigation

If a complaint is not dismissed, the review official shall forward the complaint to the respondent immediately along with a copy of the Complaint Resolution Procedures.

4. Response to Complaint

Within 10 business days of the receipt of the complaint from the review official, the respondent shall file with the Commissioner a written response to the complaint.

A.        Content of Response

The response shall address each and every allegation of the complaint and shall list the respondent's name, address and telephone number.

B.        Interview

The review official or the respondent may request an interview to discuss the response and to resolve the dispute informally.

5. Complaint Investigation

Upon completion of Section IV or the failure of the respondent to file a response, the review official shall conduct an investigation.  All parties may be duly notified that an investigation has begun.  At any time during the investigation, the review official shall attempt to resolve the dispute informally.

Within 60 calendar days of the receipt of the complaint, an investigation of the complaint shall be completed and a written report shall be mailed to both parties.  Information shall be gathered in a timely manner, while minimizing any inconvenience or disruption to the complainant or respondent.

Concerning a review of an appeal of the decision of an agency or consortium of agencies, the review official may elect to disregard the procedures contained in this section using in lieu thereof the following abbreviated procedure.

1.        Review all of the appropriate records and determine whether the decision of the agency or consortium of agencies shall be affirmed, reversed or modified.

2.        Draft a letter of review of an appeal addressing, but not limited to, the issue in dispute, the facts found, the affirmation, reversal or modification of the lower decision and recommendation for improved practices, policies or procedures.

A.        Data Collection

The complainant and respondent shall provide the review official with copies of all relevant records requested in writing.  Telephone interviews of the complainant, respondent and others with knowledge of the allegations may be conducted.

Pursuant to 34 CFR 99-35(a) the review official, acting on behalf of the SEA, is authorized to have access to education records in connection with an evaluation of federal or state-supported education programs or for the enforcement of or compliance with federal legal requirements which relate to those programs.

B.        Independent On-Site Investigation

The review official may conduct an on-site visit to investigate the complaint if the official deems it necessary.

Any on-site visit shall be coordinated with the respondent.

C.        Complaint Investigation Report

The Complaint Investigation Report shall be completed by the review official and mailed to the parties within 60 calendar days of the receipt of the complaint by the SEA.  The Commissioner may grant an extension for the completion of the report on written request of the review official or respondent if exceptional circumstances exist with respect to the particular complaint.  Such extension shall be in writing and shall be mailed to the parties.

The report shall contain the following contents:

1.        Summary of all investigation activities including, but not limited to, date of receipt of complaint, allegations, parties interviewed, documents received and dates of on-site visits.

2.        Specific allegation of the complaint, the findings of fact, conclusions and final decisions rendered regarding each allegation, including citation to applicable federal statute or regulation.

3.        Specific corrective action plan that resolves the complaint or ensures future compliance of the respondent regarding the violation of federal statute or regulation.

4.        Recommendations for improved practices, policies or procedures shall be offered when no violation of federal statute or regulation is found.

D.        Corrective Action Plan

If the Complaint Investigation Report finds that the respondent is violating federal statute or regulations, the respondent shall be requested to submit a corrective action plan within a specified period of time as determined by the review official.

Respondent may request technical assistance from the SEA in order to prepare a plan to achieve compliance.

6. Review of Final Decision

The complainant may file a written request with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education to review the final decision of the SEA.

All local educational agencies shall disseminate information about the complaint procedures to teachers, staff, parents and appropriate private school officials or representatives.

A private school official shall have the right to complain that a local educational agency did not engage in consultation that was meaningful and timely, or did not give due consideration to the views of the private school official.

CHILD CARE CENTERS AND SCHOOL READINESS PROGRAMS – NOTIFICATION

The child care and school readiness programs within the Farmington Public Schools, including Farmington Collaborative Preschool, Farmington Extended Care and Learning and school readiness program(s), are administered by the Farmington Board of Education (the “Board”).  State law exempts public school districts from licensure by the Office of Early Childhood.  Thus, the Board is not licensed by the Office of Early Childhood to provide these programs.

FREE OR REDUCED MEALS - NOTIFICATION

National School Lunch Program regulations require that free and reduced-price meals be made available to all eligible children.  A letter and application form will be distributed to all parents during the first few weeks of school. The letter will contain information on the eligibility standards, procedures for applying for free and reduced-price meals or free milk, and how an appeal may be filed for an adjustment in the decision with respect to the application. This information and an application form will also be provided whenever a new student is enrolled.

A public news release containing this same information will be made available to local news representatives early in the school year. Copies of this public release will be made available upon request to any interested party. Subsequent changes in the district eligibility standards during the school year, which are approved by the state agency, will also be publicly announced.

The Farmington Board of Education policy regarding free or reduced lunch is available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQRoBQbu9kmB-xnZl-MwC99SPoHjWY-lzZc6k6qinIG3CfA10d0D_Ru_6Ugrh2FBJzQicgVXWhHdPtw/pub.

SPECIAL SERVICES –

NOTIFICATION OF PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING AN INITIAL EVALUATION OF A CHILD

1. RTI Team (Response to Intervention)

The RTI Team is a trained team of professional school staff who identify, discuss, and monitor individual students who experience academic or behavioral difficulties that interfere with school success.  Receiving referrals from a variety of sources, the RTI Team initially meets to discuss a student's current level of performance based on grades, discipline reports, attendance, teacher summaries, guidance or social work concerns, parent communication, or information from other outside resources. The team then determines the primary areas of concern to address, and, through the team process, implements a strategic plan of action focusing on a variety of appropriate intervention strategies.  Student progress is then monitored and reviewed for evaluation through a cycle of RTI Team meetings. Intervention strategies may or may not continue, or change, based on progress monitoring and student achievement.  If additional academic or behavioral evaluation is warranted, appropriate referrals are then initially processed through the ASSIST Team meetings.  Please contact the School Counseling Department with questions or concerns. ​

2. Access to Programs and Services for Students with Disabilities

A student who has a disability impacting the ability to learn or function in the school environment may be entitled to special services including reasonable accommodations (Section 504 Plan) and/or special education (Individualized Education Plan).

Special education is specially designed instruction created to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. In providing special education to students, the district complies with the requirements of federal and state law. Eligibility for special education is determined by a planning and placement team. Before a child is referred to a planning and placement team, alternative procedures and programs in regular education shall be explored and, where appropriate, implemented.  Referrals for special education may be made by school personnel as well as from a student's parents, physician, or social worker.  

The Farmington Board of Education is committed to providing parents and other interested parties with information about the identification, evaluation and programming for students with disabilities.  Parents who have questions about the services available to students with disabilities may contact the Director of Special Services at (860) 677-1791 or one of the following building-level individuals:

Farmington High School:  Russ Crist

Irving A. Robbins Middle School: Lisa Kapcinski

West Woods Upper Elementary School:  Dr. Katherine Blore

East Farms Elementary School:  Jessica Szafran

Noah Wallace Elementary School:   Dr. Carrie Huber

Union Elementary School:  Caitlin Eckler

West District Elementary School:  Carolyn Fink

Farmington Collaborative Preschool: Melina Rodriguez

STUDENT DATA PRIVACY WEBSITE - NOTIFICATION

The Farmington Board of Education maintains an Internet website that includes information relating to all contracts entered into with outside vendors that may be in receipt of student data in accordance with Connecticut’s student data privacy laws.  The address of this Internet website is https://www.fpsct.org/technology.

TEACHER AND PARAPROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS – NOTIFICATION

Parents of children attending Irving A. Robbins Middle School, West Woods Upper Elementary School or Union Elementary School have the right, under every Student Succeeds Act of 2015, to request the following information concerning the qualifications of teachers and paraprofessionals who work with your child:

1. Whether your child’s teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
2. Whether your child’s teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived;
3. Whether your child’s teacher is teaching in the field of discipline of his or her certification; and
4. Whether your child is provided services by paraprofessionals, and, if so, the paraprofessionals’ qualifications.

If you wish to obtain this information, please contact the Assistant Superintendent at 860-673-8270.

COMMUNITY AND FACILITIES RELATED POLICIES AND NOTIFICATIONS

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

The Board of Education, in compliance with federal law, has developed an asbestos management plan, concerning the presence or suspected presence of asbestos-type materials within district school buildings, and required inspections and preventive measures related thereto.  In accordance with federal law, members of the public, including parents, teachers and other employees, shall be permitted access to the asbestos management plan of the Farmington Board of Education.

Upon request, the district shall permit members of the public, including parents, teachers and other employees, to inspect any asbestos management plan.  The district shall grant access to such management plans within five working days after receiving a request from a member of the public.

GREEN CLEANING PRODUCTS NOTIFICATION (Policy 1455) 

(full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vT9SLsTce2fzvtVeJmEU6BCTTAwRFeNIbpONWEW2fDywTNfVet-AykrmCQL9mkt0nAahyC0-RItGL7R/pub)  

The Farmington Public Schools implements a green cleaning program in which the district procures and properly uses environmentally preferable cleaning products in school buildings and facilities.  This chart lists the types, names and manufacturers of the green products used by Farmington Public Schools as well as the location/area of application and the schedule of when each is used:

Farmington Public Schools has adopted a policy prohibiting unapproved cleaning and disinfecting products from being brought into any Farmington Public Schools facility by teachers, parents or students. No parent, guardian, teacher or staff member may bring into the school facility any consumer product which is intended to clean, deodorize, sanitize or disinfect.

Any questions concerning the program can be directed to: Director of School Facilities, 860-673-8270.

PESTICIDE APPLICATION POLICY (Policy 1460)

 (full policy available at https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTd1xgaVCAnFG6-VL_vyOp1TTlB4B3aud9LmGxJgIDcTgw85OKYLXxw0ETNqkMtXUaBZs86WRiOtPUE/pub)

Only certified pesticide applicators are used in schools for any non-emergency pesticide use in school buildings or on school grounds.  Areas to receive pesticide application will be posted and a written record of all pesticide applications will be maintained for five years. A “pesticide” is defined as a fungicide used on plants, an insecticide, an herbicide, or a rodenticide but does not mean a sanitizer, disinfectant, antimicrobial agent or pesticide bait.

The Farmington Board of Education is committed to minimizing the use of pesticides.  Therefore, the primary practice of pest control shall involve reducing/eliminating the conditions necessary for pest survival.  These measures include but are not limited to good housekeeping and routine, prompt maintenance of buildings and grounds.

As required by the statute, the Farmington Public Schools (the “District”) shall:

• Annually inform parents/guardians and staff of the District’s pest application/management policy and a description of any pesticide applications made during the previous school year.
• Establish a registry of parents/guardians and staff who want to receive advance notice of all pesticide use and provide such notice
• Provide notice of planned pesticide application to students, parents/guardians and employees.
• Make pesticide applications only after regular school hours and/or planned activities.
• Maintain written records for five years of all pesticide applications.

As stated above, parents/guardians and staff who want to receive advance notice of all pesticide use will be listed on a registry and such notice will be provided as required by law.  Parents/Guardians who want to be notified prior to pesticide applications inside their child(ren)’s school assignment area may contact the School Nurse.

FPS HEALTH INFORMATION

The Farmington Public Schools works closely with the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), the Farmington Valley Health District (FVHD), and the district’s medical director, Barbara Ziogas, M.D., on matters related to student health.  The information in this section is subject to change at any time depending on current health conditions, new requirements, and updated guidance.  

Role of School Nurses

Each school in the district has a registered nurse with expertise in school health and pediatric care.  The school nurse provides care and treatment to students who are injured or become ill at school.  In addition to serving as a resource for parents and school staff in supporting the educational needs of students with medical conditions, they also oversee mandated health screenings and compliance with mandated physical examinations and immunizations.

Communication

Communication between families and the school nurse is critical, and you are encouraged to reach out to the school nurse with any health-related questions or concerns regarding your child.  Please contact the school nurse:

• If your child has any health or medical condition that may require individualized planning for treatment, care (including emergency care), health or safety in school or on the bus;
• If there are any changes to your child’s health status, including illnesses, injuries, hospitalizations, new treatments and medications; or
• If your child is expected to require a long-term absence from school due to medical reasons.

If your child has been hospitalized or had a serious illness or injury, surgery, casting or stitches, please provide a note from the treating healthcare provider indicating the specific diagnosis, treatment plan, readiness to return to school, and either activity restrictions or authorization to resume all activities.  Please also provide a note from a treating healthcare provider if your child temporarily requires crutches, a wheelchair or medical scooter in school or on the bus.

Medical Appointments

Whenever possible, please schedule medical and other appointments for your child outside normal school hours so as to avoid the loss of valuable instructional time.

Illnesses & Accidents

In case of an illness or injury at school, the school nurse will contact you to pick up your child at school.  Parents are expected to pick up their children within 30 minutes of being notified by the nurse.  Sick or injured students may not ride the school bus home.  If you cannot come to the school within that time frame, please inform the school nurse of the name of the adult whom you are authorizing to pick up your child and confirm your authorization by email to the nurse.  Please also notify that individual that he or she must provide a photo identification in order to pick up your child.  

If you cannot be reached, the school nurse will notify one of the individuals designated as an “emergency contact” for the student.  Please ensure that your child’s emergency contact information is accurate and up to date and be sure to notify the school nurse of any changes that need to be made during the school year.

Outside Recess

Recess is an important component of the regular school program in the younger grades.  Children are expected to come to school properly clothed for the weather conditions.  Written requests for exclusion from recess will be honored for a reasonable length of time.  Extended exclusions require a written note from the student’s healthcare provider.

Reporting Communicable / Infectious Diseases

For the health and safety of all members of the school community, please promptly notify the school nurse if your child has any communicable disease.  Students with medical conditions that may expose others to infection or illness may be excluded from school.  Such a student may return to school following medical treatment and assessment by the school nurse.

When to Keep Your Child Home from School

While regular school attendance is critical for learning, students should stay home when they are ill.  If you have any questions about whether your child should stay home, please contact the school nurse.  Exclusion decisions are made by the school nurse in collaboration with the district’s nursing supervisor and, if necessary, the district’s medical director.  

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have determined the following key criteria for keeping children home from school:

• Your child cannot participate comfortably in activities as determined by the school nurse or another school staff member.
• Your child’s illness results in care that is greater than what the school nurse or another staff member can provide without compromising the health and safety of other students; or
• Your child is at risk of spreading a harmful disease to others in school (see below for a list of specific exclusion conditions).  A health professional may determine your child’s condition does not require absence from school.

Plan to keep your child home if he/she:

1. Looks severely ill. This includes a lack of responsiveness, lethargy, irritability, persistent crying, difficulty breathing, or a quickly spreading rash.
2. Has a fever (i.e., temperature of 100.4 degrees).
3. Has diarrhea (i.e., stool that is occurring more frequently or is less formed in consistency than usual). Exclusion is required for all diapered children whose stool is not contained in the diaper and for all toilet-trained children if the diarrhea is causing “accidents.”  Do not send your child to school if the stool frequency exceeds two stools above normal within a 24-hour period.
4. Is vomiting two or more times within the previous 24 hours, unless the vomiting is determined to be caused by a non-communicable or non-infectious condition and the child is not in danger of dehydration.
5. Has abdominal pain that continues for more than two hours or intermittent abdominal pain associated with fever or other signs and symptoms.
6. Has mouth sores with drooling which the child cannot control unless the child’s primary healthcare provider states the child is not infectious.
7. Has a rash with fever or behavioral changes, until a primary healthcare provider has determined the illness is not a communicable disease.
8. Has a skin sore that is weeping fluid and is on an exposed body surface that cannot be covered with a waterproof dressing.
9. Has a communicable condition, including:

1. Strep Throat - Do not send your child to school until an appropriate course of antibiotics has begun.  The child may return to school when he / she has had a dose on the day of the diagnosis and another dose on the morning before returning to school.
2. Chickenpox (Varicella) - All lesions must be dried or crusted (usually 6 days after onset of the rash) and no new lesions have appeared for at least 24 hours.
3. Scabies, Ringworm or Impetigo - Do not send your child to school unless he/she has been treated after you were notified the previous day.  (Note: Exclusion is not necessary before the end of the school day.)
4. Head Lice - Do not send your child to school unless he/she has been treated after you have been notified the previous day.  (Note: Exclusion is not necessary before the end of the school day.).  Routine screening and management at home are the key factors in the effective control of head lice.  Therefore, we emphasize prevention through parental education, collaboration and communication.  Mass screenings for head lice are no longer conducted routinely in our schools as they are ineffective as a method of lice control and result in loss of instructional time, misdiagnosed cases, and stigma for those children who are sent home during the day.  Head lice do not cause disease and, when first identified on a head, usually have been present for a few weeks. While annoying and sometimes difficult to get rid of, head lice are not dangerous.  They are usually best controlled when managed through a combination of mechanical and chemical means, along with housekeeping techniques currently recommended by public health experts.  If you have any questions about head lice, please contact the school nurse.

Physical Examinations

State law requires that students in public schools undergo a health assessment by a legally qualified physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or a physician assistant.  The assessment must be documented on the CSDE Health Assessment Record (“Blue Form” for students in Grades K-12 or “Yellow Form” for preschoolers).

Preschool

Parents / guardians must provide the school nurse with a current, completed Early Childhood Health Assessment Record (“Yellow Form”) before their child may enter any district preschool program.  Registration is not complete until the school nurse has approved all medical information for the child.  An updated Yellow Form is required each year that a child is in preschool.

Kindergarten

Parents / guardians must provide the school nurse with a current, completed Health Assessment Record (“Blue Form”) before their child may enter Kindergarten.  Registration is not complete until the school nurse has approved all medical information for the child.  If a student is repeating Kindergarten, the parents must provide the nurse an updated Blue Form prior to the start of the second year of that grade.

Grade 6/7 and Grade 10/11

Students must have updated physicals in Grade 6 and in Grade 10 in order to enter school for the following year’s grade.  No student may enter either Grade 7 or Grade 11 without a current, completed Blue Form provided to the school nurse.

In-State Transfer Students

Parents / guardians of a child of any grade who is entering the Farmington Public Schools from another district or from a private, parochial or charter school in Connecticut must provide the school nurse with a copy of the current Blue Form.  Registration is not complete until the school nurse has approved all medical information for the child.  This requirement does not apply to students returning to a district school from a private approved special education placement.

Out-of-State Transfer Students

Parents / guardians of a child of any grade entering the Farmington Public Schools must obtain a physical examination by a licensed healthcare provider as described above prior to starting school.  The provider should complete the CSDE Health Assessment Record (“Blue Form” or “Yellow Form,” as appropriate).  Registration is not complete until the school nurse has approved all medical information for the child.

FHS Student-Athletes

In order to be eligible to participate in high school athletics, students must provide an updated Blue Form to the school nurse annually.

Hospital Transportation

In accordance with DPH regulations, if a student illness or injury is serious enough to warrant an Emergency Medical Service (EMS) response, EMS staff will assess the need for specialized hospital treatment.  If EMS staff determine that a student requires immediate hospital treatment, they will transport the student to the hospital best suited to meet the student’s particular medical needs at that time, regardless of whether that hospital is the one closest to the school or one designated on the student’s school emergency card.

Health Screenings 

The district provides annual health screenings as follows:

• Vision - Grades K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
• Hearing - Grades K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
• Scoliosis / Postural - Grades 5 & 7 (females) and Grade 8 (males)

These screenings are performed in accordance with CSDE regulations, and the school nurse will notify parents in writing of any concern observed during the screening of their child.

Interscholastic Athletics Pay to Participate

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Board of Education policy for participating in interscholastic athletics, including cheerleading and crew, will be administered according to the following guidelines:

1. A flat fee of $125.00 per student per season will be charged.  This fee is separate from any related booster club fees, e.g. crew, ice hockey.

2. Fee reductions and waivers are available for student athletes on free or reduced lunch plans.  They are also available to students needing financial aid.  Please contact the athletic director for details.

3. There is an annual cap of $500 per family.

4. The fee should be paid through My School Bucks by October 1st (Fall Season), January 15th (Winter Season) and April 15th (Spring Season).

5. The fee will not be refunded to student athletes who are dropped from a team for disciplinary or academic reasons.

6. A pro-rated amount of the fee, based on percentage of the season remaining, may be returned to student athletes, who because of injury sustained in the program, will be out for the remainder of the season.

7. A student athlete must have an annual updated physical on file with the nurse’s office.   It is only valid for 13 months from the date of the exam.  

8. All parents/guardians should register their child to participate in their desired sport by visiting the FHS website www.fpsct.org, going to schools, then FHS, and then Athletics Registration. Please call the athletic director with any additional questions at 860 673-2514 ext. 6691.

HUSKY PLAN

The HUSKY Plan is designed to help all children who don’t have health insurance. It includes  services under the traditional Medicaid program (now known as HUSKY Part A). It also provides brand-new health services for children in higher-income families (called HUSKY Part B).

HUSKY gives a special boost to Connecticut’s working families. Many parents don’t have health coverage for children through work. With HUSKY, your children are covered. Even families with high incomes can get most HUSKY services at a group rate.

For further information contact your school nurse, or contact 1-877-CT-HUSKY (1-877-284-8759).

               EXTENDED CARE & LEARNING PROGRAM

The Farmington Extended Care & Learning (EXCL) program provides quality child-care to Farmington elementary and upper elementary school students. It is integrated into the Farmington Public Schools to promote a seamless continuum of educational experiences for children, both before and after school. The program is offered in all four elementary schools and West Woods Upper Elementary School. Our goal is to provide a fun, safe and enriching environment for every child registered in the program. Through our curriculum and planned activities, we allow and encourage children to increase their cognitive abilities, foster a positive self-esteem, develop team spirit with a sense of cooperation and fair play, and enhance their physical development through challenging games and skill instruction.

For more information regarding our program, our office is located at 1 Depot Place in Unionville. Our office phone number is (860) 404-0112.Our website is https://www.fpsct.org/excl.

If your child is currently attending our program and you would like to reach us, please call us at 860-404-0112 to listen for the appropriate school listed below.

The Farmington Extended Care & Learning (EXCL) program is administered by the Farmington Board of Education. State law exempts public school districts from licensure by the Office of Early Childhood. Thus, the Farmington Board of Education is not licensed by the Office of Early Childhood to provide this service.

DINING SERVICES

Farmington Public Schools

10 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT 06032

(860) 673-6343

We are excited about the new school year and our continued partnership with Chartwells School Dining Services. Chartwells consistently creates plans for our school meal programs that reflect feedback from students, families and educators. There is a team in place to work collaboratively with the existing staff to bring excitement and improved quality to the program.

Joe Walsh

Director of Dining Services

School Breakfast Program:

Did you know that school breakfast is linked with better test scores, attendance, attention span, and improved problem solving skills in class? Breakfast is offered to students at all schools. Students can select from a variety of  breakfast items such as reduced sugar cereals, muffins, low fat yogurt, 100% fruit juice and fresh fruit and more. Milk is included with every breakfast providing nine essential nutrients and protein.

School Breakfast Prices: Free for all students for the 2023-24 school year.

School Lunch Program:

Chartwells would like to remind parents/guardians of the incredible value of a school lunch. According to the School Nutrition Association, the estimated national average of a lunch brought from home is $3.43! Every school lunch includes five great choices: Lean Protein, Whole Grain Bread/Grains, Fruit Choice, Vegetable Choice and Low-Fat Milk Choice. Please encourage your child to take all five meal components when they purchase a school lunch.

School Lunch Prices: Students eligible for reduced price lunches receive free lunch for the 2023-24 school year.

Elementary Schools: $2.80

West Woods Upper Elementary: $3.05-$3.55

Irving A. Robbins Middle School: $3.05-$3.55

Farmington High School: $3.05-$3.80

Menu: Milk is included with all purchased meals. Additionally, there are 8 oz. cartons available a la carte at $.60. Students and families may see gradual changes with the menu, choices, and food presentation at all schools. Chartwells will continue to work with administrators, students, and parents to gain insight into how to enhance services. Please visit the Quick Links on the District website at http://www.fpsct.org for menus, updates, prepayment information, free and reduced lunch applications, links to nutrition information and to view your student’s account. At the end of August, look for information about our Simply Good- Fresh and Local campaign which will highlight fresh, local fruits and vegetables on all menus. Our new Chefs to Schools program invites local chefs to prepare exciting new options for our students. Chartwells strives to make the dining experience special. Chartwells is planning enhancements designed to appeal to each group of customers.

Elementary Program

For the elementary students, Chartwells has many programs to inspire healthy eating habits and spark culinary curiosity such as: Discovery Kitchen: a program designed to have students, trying new foods, and learning about what they’re eating. Each month has a different theme and activities will be adapted for the current meal programs.Mood Boost: This innovative program helps students connect what they eat with how they feel. It features recipes and characters that focus on six moods: Smart, Happy, Confident, Alert, Strong and Calm.

Upper Elementary Lunch Programs

In addition to Discovery Kitchen and Mood Boost Upper Elementary students have a choice between two separate lines during lunch. One is a selection of Grill or 2mato items the other is Create where we begin to expand the palates of students offering different concepts and a wide variety of vegetables, grains and lean proteins.

          Middle and High School Lunch Programs

Chartwells understands that older students have a more sophisticated palate, so we are planning some appropriate enhancements to meet their needs.  We offer more whole grain breads, rolls, fresh fruits, and vegetables, made to order deli sandwiches and salads.

• Our food stations at the High School include: Grill, 2Mato, So Deli, On The Go and Create which is a station that is constantly changing with different food themes from our Global Eats, Sono, American Classics and VegOut stations. We also feature Student Choice where students are invited to taste and vote on a variety of different vegetables, whole grains, fruits and proteins. Favorite items and stations are featured on the following month's menus.
• Our food stations at the Middle School include: Grill, 2Mato, on the Go, and Create where we explore different food items from a variety of different concepts. Students are also involved in our Love It or Lose It Student Choice events. Students sample a new menu item and pick if they Love it and want to see it on upcoming menus or Lose it.

           ADVANCED PAYMENTS FOR STUDENT LUNCH ACCOUNTS

The Farmington Public Schools utilizes the MySchoolBucks system for its online payment service. The service also provides parents with the ability to view student account balances. To create an account or to add money to an account, go online to mySchoolBucks.com. You will need your student’s MySchoolBucks number and school zip code.

1. To obtain your child’s MySchoolBucks number:

• Grades K-6 please call the school or (860) 673-6343 and ask for assistance
• Grades 7-12 log-in to your PowerSchool account and refer to the MySchoolBucks number listed for your child.

Things to know:

• If you have more than one child in the District you can handle all online prepayments from the same online account.
• Payments may be made through an existing mySchoolBucks.com account or with a major credit or debit card.
• In order to use the online prepayment service, a small convenience fee for each transaction will be assessed to cover the bank fees. The convenience fee is $1.95 per deposit transaction. Parents placing money into multiple meal accounts will only be assessed the $1.95 fee once per deposit transaction. Farmington Public Schools will not profit from the use of this site. (You may continue to send cash or a check to the school to avoid this transaction fee).

• If you wish to set restrictions and/or spending limits on your child’s lunch account you will need to contact Dining Services. Any prior restrictions, such as prepaid lunches ONLY, will need to be confirmed with this office as well.

Restrictions may include:

• Limit purchases to meals ONLY (no a la carte spending)
• Set a limit on ala carte spending per day (NOT including the cost of a lunch)

                                        The National School Lunch Program

The Farmington Public Schools participates in the National School Lunch Program. School lunch is available at free and reduced prices. Eligibility for this program is determined through an application process. If you presently receive SNAP or Temporary Family Assistance (TFA) for your child, that child is eligible for a free meal.

If your total income is at or below the USDA free and reduced income limits, your child is eligible for free meals. These guidelines can be found on the USDA website www.usda.gov. If you have a foster child, that child may be eligible for benefits regardless of your income because the child is a legal ward of the State of Connecticut and is considered a household of one. Subsidized adoptions, however, require an application to be submitted with the calculation of all household income plus the adoption subsidy.

Applications for free and reduced lunch are available on our website through the following link: http://www.fpsct.org/lunchmenus

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