Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook

Download the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook

Download the Acknowledgement of Review of the Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook - Form

Manuel des droits et responsabilités de l’élève.pdf

Manual de Derechos y Responsabilidades del Estudiante

SECTION 1: Introduction, Goals, College and Career Ready, Resources

Introduction

Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is committed to fostering positive, nurturing and engaging learning environments that support graduating all students to be college and career ready. To accomplish this, we must maintain safe schools for students and teachers.

Together, families, students, teachers, staff and administrators share the responsibility in creating and sustaining an environment that supports student achievement and well-being. By following the rights and responsibilities outlined in this handbook, you can help PGCPS become a safer and more supportive environment for all students and staff.

Good discipline is essential to academic success, and we believe it is possible to maintain disciplined, productive learning environments without excluding students from school, except in the most severe instances.

This handbook provides a framework for academic standards and student behavior to promote positive, supportive and inclusive learning environments to maximize student academic achievement and minimize student behavior issues. It is an outline of the expectations, rights and responsibilities of all members of our school community – a structure where students, families and teachers partner for student success.

Application of the Handbook/Code of Student Conduct

This handbook and its contents are in effect during regularly scheduled school hours, as well as at other times and places, including school sponsored events, field trips and athletic functions where school administrators have authority over students or the behavior has a direct effect on the order of the school.

Handbook Goals

• Share policies, procedures and best practices to ensure that students and parents understand and support our goal of academic excellence and a high quality education for all students;
• Share expectations of respectful and responsible behaviors based on age, developmental level and needs of the student and school community;
• Share school and community resources for students, parents and families;
• Identify levels of responses and interventions regarding student behavior; and
• Provide the student appeals process and procedures.

College and Career Ready

The College and Career Ready Program oversees all the programs and student opportunities for students that support their readiness for successful entry into a college and/or a career. This web page at www.pgcps.org/collegereadiness is designed to help students and parents (and staff as well) navigate through the wealth of information about getting prepared for college. It includes information on our district programs and opportunities for students as well as the regional and national information sites that will give all our students what they need to know to be successful!

PGCPS is proud to announce the launch of Naviance in all of our middle and high schools. Naviance is a college and career readiness platform. Each school has its own personalized Family Connection site where students (and in the future, families) can log in and access tools to research colleges, browse scholarships, keep a list of favorite careers, and track college applications.

Naviance is linked with SchoolMAX, so student data and other information will be updated on a nightly basis. Students will access their Family Connection accounts via Clever, which can be accessed from the PGCPS district website. Students will benefit from the college & career readiness activities such as:

• Researching careers & clusters;
• Creating SMART goals (career, academic, personal/social, post-secondary);
• Creating/updating a resume;
• Identifying Career Academies of interest by 8th graders;
• Self-assessments to include personality traits, intelligences, and top strengths;
• Saving prospective colleges to the Colleges I’m Thinking About list; and
• Participation in the MSDE Senior Exit Survey for 12th graders.

Scholarships Database

PGCPS is committed to preparing students for college and the world of work. The scholarship link on the student section at www.pgcps.org provides a database of regional, state and national scholarships from a variety of public and private sources. Deadlines and application requirements are included for each scholarship. Information regarding internships, career and summer opportunities is also available.

Resources for Students and Families

SchoolMAX Family Portal

PGCPS uses the SchoolMAX Student Information System to manage student data. The Family Portal allows students and parents/guardians to log in from any computer and view information, including attendance records, assignments, grades and discipline records.

School Closings Information

e-Alerts: Sign up for emergency notifications by email or text by visiting the home page and clicking on the “E-ALERTS” button.
Home page: www.pgcps.org
PGCPS Twitter: http://twitter.com/pgcps
PGCPS Facebook: www.facebook.com/pgcps
School Status Line: 301-952-6000, option 1
PGCTV (96 Comcast and 38 Verizon)

FREQUENTLY CALLED PGCPS NUMBERS

Area 1 - Elementary Schools Office | 301-952-6583 

Area 2 - Middle Schools Office | 301-952-6584 

Area 3 - High Schools Office | 301-952-6585

Board of Education Office | 301-952-6115 

Early Childhood Programs | 301-808-2707

EEO Advisor | 240-573-7049

ESOL Office | 301-445-8450

Family & Community Engagement | 301-618-7356 

Fingerprinting | 301-952-6775

Food & Nutrition Services | 301-952-6580 

Fostering Connections | 301-780-5910 

GED (Adult Education) | 301-322-0891 

Health Services | 301-749-4722

Home & Hospital Teaching | 301-567-8642

International Student Admissions & Enrollment | 301-445-8460 

McKinney Vento Program | 301-925-2482

Neediest Kids Program | 301-780-5910

Pupil Accounting & School Boundaries | 301-952-6300 

Pupil Personnel Services | 301-780-5910

Section 504 | 301-952-6255

Special Education | 301-618-8300 

Student Appeals | 301-952-6195

Student Records, Transfers & Archival Services | 301-567-8751 

Student Service-Learning | 301-952-6233

Transportation | 301-817-0535

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Community Crisis Hotline | 1-800-422-0009 

Department of Social Services | 301-909-7000 

Emergency Financial Assistance | 301-909-6000 

Emergency Food Assistance | 301-909-6343

Gang Reference Card (warning signs) & Addressing Gang Crime | 1-800-421-9779 

Health Department | 301-583-5920

Homeless Hotline | 1-888-731-0999 

Suicide Hotline | 301-864-7130 (County Helpline) | 988 (National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

SECTION 2: Rights & Responsibilities

PGCPS respects the rights of all individuals to be treated equally and fairly to ensure that no individual is discriminated against based on race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or disability in the areas of freedom of expression, procedural and due process, personal rights and access to school programs. If you have questions about non-discrimination policies, please use the following contact information:

Non-discrimination policies for students with disabilities under Section 504:
Keisha Butler, Section 504 Coordinator
7711 Livingston Road | Oxon Hill, MD 20745
301-952-6255

For non-discrimination policies based on gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability:
Shaundricka Ranel, Esq.
Office of Equity Assurance
14201 School Lane, Room 210 | Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
240-573-7049

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Student Rights

• A free public education subject to provisions of state law and the bylaws, rules and regulations of the Maryland State Board of Education and the Board of Education of Prince George’s County;
• An education in a learning environment that is safe, drug-free, free of harassment, accepting of diversity and conducive to learning where high standards and educational equity are stressed;
• Enjoy meaningful freedom of speech, press, assembly (peaceful demonstrations) and religion;
• Right to appeal the denial of a planned demonstration to the Area Office;
• Due process for academic, attendance and disciplinary measures, as well as other issues which could impact the student’s ability to receive a free and appropriate education;
• Inspect, review and seek to amend educational records; and
• Access to prevention and intervention programs.

Student Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe and orderly school environment free of harassment where diversity is accepted and conducive to teaching and learning;
• Know and obey all county and school rules and regulations relating to student conduct and achievement;
• Come to school on time and ready to learn each day;
• Present the school with a parent/guardian note for absences and tardiness;
• Work to your fullest potential in all academic and extracurricular activities;
• Respect school authority, which includes not only obeying school rules and regulations, but also conforming to the laws of the community, state and nation;
• Obey all instructions from all school employees in a positive and respectful manner;
• Dress in accordance with the dress code for school and school functions;
• Utilize school resources to develop appropriate problem solving skills;
• Ask questions to ensure understanding;
• Accept responsibility for actions;
• Maintain and uphold the highest standards of conduct, demeanor and sportsmanship during extracurricular events;
• Show respect and consideration for the personal and property rights of others and understand the need for cooperation with all members of the school community;
• Bring to school only those items and materials which are appropriate for the instructional program;
• All student demonstrations must be organized by students or student led groups. The student organizer(s) must meet with the school administration to coordinate the planned event and is encouraged to schedule this meeting no fewer than two days before the planned event; and
• If the planned demonstration or the actions of the demonstrators differ from the agreement, disciplinary actions may follow based on the Code of Student Conduct.

Parent/Guardian Rights and Responsibilities

Parent/Guardian Rights

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

• Provide proof of a bona fide residence in Prince George’s County;
• Provide required immunization documents to the school system;
• During kindergarten or first grade registration, provide the school system with proof of the child’s age;
• Notify the school whenever child is absent;*
• Ensure child (5-18 years old) attends school regularly;**
• Assume primary responsibility for the discipline of the child;
• Model cooperation with school and transportation personnel;
• Respond to school personnel requests for information and meetings;
• Update contact information annually; and
• Treat all members of the school community, including students and staff, with respect to promote a school environment that is free of harassment and accepting of diversity.

Teacher/Staff Member Responsibilities

• Be prepared to teach and provide quality instruction within the current curricular framework;
• Exhibit an attitude of respect for students that has a positive influence in helping them develop good citizenship traits;
• Remain knowledgeable about school policies and rules, and enforce them in a fair, impartial and consistent manner for all students;
• Communicate information regarding student progress and achievement on a regular and timely basis to students, parents and other involved professionals;
• Maintain an atmosphere that contributes to positive student behavior;
• Provide daily classwork and assignments for students with lawful absences, including those students on suspension;
• Develop and maintain a positive working relationship with students and staff free of harassment and accepting of diversity;
• Strive to improve the quality of life throughout the school community;
• Maintain an environment of mutual respect and dignity;
• Encourage the use of appropriate counseling services;
• Report bullying, harassment or intimidation;
• Communicate policies and expectations to students and parents, including: course objectives and requirements, grading procedures, assignment deadlines and classroom discipline plans;
• Mandated reporter of suspected child abuse and/or neglect to Child Protective Services;
• Elevate reports of bullying harassment or intimidation of students or other staff members to the school administrator for investigation and resolution; and
• Faculty are not allowed to punish students who wish to participate in demonstration(s) approved by the school administration. Academic makeup work will be permitted in accordance with AP 5113.

School Administrator Responsibilities

• Support teaching and learning by creating and maintaining a safe and orderly environment;
• Promote communication with all stakeholders and present opportunities for students, staff and parents to address grievances;
• Promote an environment that is free of harassment and accepting of diversity;
• Enforce the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook and ensure the fair, consistent and prompt resolution of concerns and infractions;
• Evaluate instructional programs regularly and comprehensively;
• Support the development of and participation in appropriate extracurricular activities by students;
• Mandated reporter of suspected child abuse and/or neglect to Child Protective Services;
• Process reports of bullying, harassment or intimidation;
• Must meet with the student organizer of a demonstration at least two days prior to coordinate the event including time, location, means of demonstration and number of expected participants. Students must be allowed the right to choose the means of demonstration except where there is a safety issue or other infringements of the Code of Student Conduct; and
• The school, administration, and PGCPS assumes no responsibility or endorsement of the student demonstration(s). All state laws per COMAR will apply per Board Policy 5211.

School Resource Officer Responsibilities 

• Provide visible security presence in assigned school and serve as a positive role model for students to prevent juvenile delinquency;
• Confer with school administration to develop strategies to prevent or minimize dangerous situations on or near school grounds; 
• Conduct routine foot patrols of the interior and exterior of school grounds;
• Assist with traffic safety and enforcement activities in and around assigned school areas;
• Coordinate assistance at major school events such as athletic events, large dances, or other activities; 
• Attend regular security and administrative staff meetings;
• Improve security measures within the school grounds;
• Provide professional advice to students with problematic issues;
• Provide referrals to students and their families to the appropriate agencies for assistance when a need is determined; 
• Cooperate and network with District Station components of patrol, investigative, and COPS units; 
• Conduct thorough and professional investigations of criminal activity; and
• Work in partnership with citizens to assist in finding resolutions to immediate community problems

*COMAR 13A.08.01, Administrative Procedure 5113: 2015-2018

**Comply with compulsory attendance law for their child (Annotated Code of Maryland Article, Section 7-301), Administrative Procedure 5113: 2015-2016 – 5-17 years old, 2016-17 – 5-18 years old

SECTION 3: Annual Notification of Rights

Rights Under FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides parents and students who are 18 years of age or older (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day PGCPS receives a request for access.
   

   In accordance with Administrative Procedure 5125 and 5134, parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The school principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent 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 parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.
   

   Parents or eligible students who wish to ask a PGCPS school to amend a record should write the school principal, clearly iden- tify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and   of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures     will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
   

   Please see the information under #5 below for exceptions to the prior written consent rule.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by a PGCPS school to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
   

   The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:
   Family Policy Compliance Office
   Student Privacy Policy Office | U.S. Department of Education
   400 Maryland Avenue, SW
   Washington, DC 20202

5. FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the parent or eligible student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in §99.31 of the FERPA regulations, including disclosures

• To other school officials, including teachers, within PGCPS whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions. 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
• To officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is requested for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
• To certain authorized representatives of federal or State government.
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve instruction.
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes.
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena.
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency.
• The school has designated as “directory information” and listed under #6 below.

6. The right to “opt out” of allowing PGCPS to disclose directory information without prior written consent. PGCPS has designated the following information as directory information:

• Student’s name
• Email Address
• Telephone listing
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• The most recent school attended
• Dates of attendance
• Grade level
• Honors and awards received
• Enrollment Status
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, etc.

If a parent does not want PGCPS to disclose directory information from a child’s education records without prior written consent, the parent must notify the school principal/designee in writing within five (5) business days of receiving the annual notification. The parent’s opt out shall be honored for one school year. The parent must re-submit the opt-out notice upon receipt of the annual notification in subsequent school years.

Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)

This notice informs parents/guardians and eligible students (emancipated minors or those 18 and older) of their rights regarding conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These rights are spelled out in the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (20 U.S.C. § 1232h; 34 CFR Part 98). The law and regulations require educational institutions, such as Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) to notify parents/guardians and eligible students of their right to—

1. Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (USDE):

• Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent/guardian
• Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family
• Sexual behavior or attitudes
• Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior
• Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships
• Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers
• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents/guardians
• Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility

2. Receive notice and an opportunity to inspect any third party survey, protected information survey, instrument collecting student information for the purposes of marketing or selling such information, or instructional material used as part of the student’s educational
3. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of—
   • any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
   • any nonemergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance administered by the school or its agent and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for lead, hearing, or vision screening, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law; and
   • any activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

PGCPS developed and adopted administrative procedures regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. PGCPS will directly notify parents/guardians and eligible students of these procedures at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes.

PGCPS also will directly notify parents/guardians and eligible students, by U.S. mail or e-mail, at least annually at the start of each school year, of the specific or approximate dates of the following activities, if PGCPS has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time; and provide an opportunity to opt a student out of participating in—

• collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution;
• administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by USDE; and
• any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described

Parents/guardians and eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the:

Student Privacy Policy Office | U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
Phone: 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327)

SECTION 4: Graduation Requirements

Prince George’s County Public Schools’ students must satisfy credit, service learning, and assessment requirements to be eligible for graduation. See Administrative Procedure 6150 Educational Requirements and Options in Secondary Schools for detailed information.

Student Service-Learning

Student Service-Learning is a learning experience for students in grades 6 -12 that combines meaningful service to the community with curriculum-based learning. Students improve their academic skills by applying what they learn in school to the real world; they then reflect on their experience to reinforce the link between their service and their learning.

Only approved activities may qualify for service-learning credit. Students must complete the student verification form to receive credit. Talk to your child’s Professional School Counselor or the school-based Service-Learning Coordinator assigned to the school.

Graduation Requirements - Graduating Class of 2021 and beyond

Graduation Requirements

SECTION 5: Student Attendance

Students shall be considered in attendance while instruction takes place face to face; on a Prince George’s County Public Schools online campus; or other times when participating in school-sponsored activities during the school day, and when that participation is approved by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the school principal or any person duly authorized by the CEO or principal.

Face to face – students attend classes in the school buildings.

Online campus – a form of education in which the main elements include physical separation of teachers and students during instruction and the use of various technologies to facilitate student-teacher and student-student communication. 

Asynchronous – students learn the same material at different times and locations through online channels without real-time interaction.

Synchronous – students learn the same material at the same time through online or distance education that occurs in real time.

Lawful Absence

Absence from school, including absence for any portion of the day, shall be considered lawful only for the following reasons:

• Death in the immediate family (i.e., parent, guardian, brother, sister, grandparent) or extended family and close non-relative;
• Illness of the student. The principal may require a physician’s certificate from the parent/guardian of a student reported absent for illness at least three school days. If the absences reach six days, a physician’s certificate will be required;
• Behavioral health needs. The principal or a pupil personnel worker shall require a licensed or certified mental health practitioner’s certificate from the parent or guardian of a student reported continuously absent for behavioral health needs;
• Pregnancy and parenting related conditions: absences due to labor, delivery, recovery, prenatal and postnatal medical appointment; absences due to an illness or medical appointment of the student’s child (after four days of such absences during a school year a physician’s note may be required); a parenting student is allowed a minimum of 10 days excused after the birth of a child; absences due to legal appointments related to family law;
• Court Summons;
• Hazardous weather conditions that would endanger the health or safety of the student;
• Work approved or sponsored by the school, the local school system, or the State Department of Education, accepted by the CEO or the school principal, or their designees, as reason for excusing the student;
• Observance of a religious holiday;
• State of emergency;
• Suspension;
• Lack of authorized transportation (This shall not include students denied authorized transportation for disciplinary reasons.);
• Health Exclusion, which includes immunizations and other health-related communicable or contagious diseases;
• Absence due to Military Families. A lawful absence shall be granted to a student while visiting with a parent or legal guardian who is an active duty member of the uniformed services and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone. Military orders may be requested;
• Mental Health Day - Students may receive as an excused absence one (1) day of absence in each semester of each school year for a student’s mental health needs. A note from a physician to excuse a student’s absence for mental health needs is not required; and
• Other emergency or set of circumstances approved by the CEO or his/her designee, including but not limited to: civic engagement (limited to three days); college visits and interviews (limited to three days); technical issues during approved online instruction only, such as broken equipment or internet outages (limited to five days). The technical issues must be immediately communicated to the student’s teacher and designated school staff.

Pregnant and Parenting Students

Absences from class due to use of the lactation space to nurse or express milk will be excused. In addition to Home and Hospital Teaching, pregnant and parenting students may make up work in ways by retaking a semester, participating in an online course credit recovery program, and continuing at the same pace with six extra weeks to complete the semester.

Unlawful Absence/Truancy

Unlawful absence is defined as the act of a student being absent from school for a day or any portion of a day from an individual class for any reason other than those defined as lawful. Teachers are not required to provide make-up work for students when absences are unlawful. Habitual truancy is defined as being unlawfully absent for 20% or more days enrolled during the school year. 

Possible Responses for Parents/Guardians for Unlawful Absences of Students

By law, parents/guardians must ensure regular attendance for their school-aged children who are enrolled in the public schools. If a child has excessive unexcused absences, the parent/guardian may be convicted of a misdemeanor and imprisoned or fined by the courts. Additionally, any other adult who persuades or attempts to persuade a student to be unlawfully absent, or who harbors a child who is unlawfully absent, may also be convicted of a misdemeanor and imprisoned and/or fined.

Possible Responses for Students Who Regularly Miss School

• Denial of opportunity to make-up class/homework assignments, tests and/or quizzes (for unlawful absences).

• Referral to Pupil Personnel Services for possible referral to court for violation of the compulsory attendance law or to Juvenile Services for intake services.

• Before and/or after school detention

• Behavioral probation

• Written contract

• In-school suspension or intervention

• Saturday School Program

• Removal of school privileges

• Reduction in grades or loss of credit

• Restriction of extracurricular activities

• Referral to an alternative educational program

• Referral to Attendance Committee

• Referral to community program

Back to Top >>

SECTION 6: Coping with Problems

School Problems

If you have a problem related to discipline, security, personal safety or vandalism, you should talk to:

• The nearest teacher, security or administrator when there is a discipline or security problem. Explain what happened and seek their guidance.
• The counselor, psychologist, pupil personnel worker or social worker to learn ways to deal with problems so you will feel safe and gain the skills to deal with similar problems in the future.
• Always talk to your parent/guardian.

Personal Problems

For assistance with personal problems that may impact your school performance or your personal happiness, please discuss the problem with your parent/guardian.

Seek the assistance of the school counselor, mental health clinician or any adult that you are comfortable with at your school. They may lead you to resources within the school and/or community.

You may also visit our Mental Health website at https://www.pgcps.org/offices/student-services/mental-health to find numbers you should call when you are in immediate crisis.

Talk to a peer. Many times fellow students are able to help with problems. Talk to the school administrators, or if available, staff in the Student Assistance Program.

Academic Problems

For assistance with an academic problem or grade, you should:

• Talk to your teacher when you are having difficulty with subjects, making poor grades or need extra assistance. The teacher may ask for a conference with you and/or your parent/guardian.
• Seek assistance from your counselor. They can help with finding a peer that can assist you.
• Discuss the academic concern with the assistant principal/principal. 

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION OPTIONS FOR SCHOOL COMPLETION

Instructional delivery and academic support will be provided through a variety of venues: flexible scheduling; in-person instruction; individualized support and instruction using learning management systems (i.e. Edgenuity, Canvas); synchronous (live and interactive) and asynchronous (self-paced with teacher support) instruction; project-based learning; and Career & Technical Education (CTE).

Non-Traditional Programs:

Non-Traditional North (Grades 9-12) | 2112 Church Road | Bowie, MD 20716
Non-Traditional South (Grades 9-12) | 9400 Surratts Road | Cheltenham, MD 20623
Non-Traditional Middle School (Grades 6-8) | 2001 Shadyside Avenue | Suitland, MD 20746

Physical, Sexual, Mental Abuse

Abuse can happen to any child regardless of race, gender expression, socioeconomic status, religion or culture. No student should be subjected to physical, sexual or mental abuse.

If a student feels he or she is being abused, the student should contact the counselor or the school administrator. If a parent feels his/her child is being abused, the parent should contact the school’s counselor or the school administrator.

If you have reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect, you must contact your local Department of Social Services or the Police Department. Prince George’s Department of Social Services may be reached at their Hot Line 301-909-2450 or during the evenings and weekends at 301-699-8605.

Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation

These issues must be brought to the attention of school administration. Unresolved concerns may be elevated to the Director of Student Services. All types of bullying, harassment or intimidation are reported.

What Is Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation?

Bullying is unwanted, demeaning behavior among students that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or is highly likely to be repeated over time. To be considered bullying, the behavior must be intentional and include (1) an imbalance of power (students who bully use their physical, emotional social or academic power to control, exclude, or harm others and (2) repetition (bullying behaviors happen more than once or are highly likely to be repeated based on evidence gathered). Bullying can occur through verbal, physical or written conduct or electronic communication that creates a hostile educational environment by substantially interfering with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, or with a student’s physical or psychological well-being.

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, tablets or other electronic communication. Cyberbullying can occur through texting, apps, or online via social media, forums, or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting or sharing negative, harmful, false, or hurtful content about another student. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation. “Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager.

Harassment includes actual or perceived negative actions that offend, ridicule, or demean another student with regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, gender expression, religion, ancestry, physical attributes, socioeconomic status, physical or mental ability, or disability.

Intimidation is any communication or action directed against another student that threatens or induces a sense of fear and/or inferiority. Retaliation may be considered a form of intimidation.

Sexual Harassment

Any conduct that violates the policy on discrimination or harassment committed by any student of either sex against students or staff is inappropriate. Conduct that is of a sexual nature is the most commonly reported form of sexual harassment. This conduct may include overt sexual solicitation, inappropriate touching, sexual jokes and inquiries about a person’s sex life, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation. This includes unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment also includes acts that are not overtly sexual, but rather are directed at individuals based on their gender, such as profanity or rude behavior that is gender-specific.

What to Do If You Are Bullied, Harassed or Intimidated

• Report the behavior to any adult.
• Tell the bully to stop. Be firm and clear.
• Complete and submit the online Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation (BHI) form.
• Students may seek guidance, support and/or advocacy in addressing matters related to bullying, harassment or intimidation.

Who Reports Allegations of Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation?

Anyone can report allegations of bullying, harassment and intimidation. Students, parents, teachers, school administration, other staff, school volunteers or the community-at-large may report these behaviors.

How Do I Report Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation?

All reports are to be submitted digitally via the Online Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation Reporting Application. Reports must be promptly and appropriately investigated by school administrators/designee, consistent with due process rights, using the Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Incident School Investigation Form within two (2) school days after receipt of a report. Submission of a report may be made via a web link enter stopbullying.pgcps.org into any internet browser, or visit the Apple App Store or Android Google Play Store using the search terms "PGCPS iStopbullying" to download to your mobile device.

What Happens After the Report Is Submitted?

Once the report is submitted to the school, the administration or the administrative designee will promptly and appropriately conduct an investigation. Findings of the investigation will be documented on the Bullying, Harassments or Intimidation Incident School Investigation Form. The school will notify parents of the targeted student and the offender of the outcome of the investigation once the investigation has been completed. The notification must respect the confidentiality of the targeted student and the offender. Therefore, specific information related to disciplinary consequences will not be provided (Administrative Procedure 5143 Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation). If bullying, harassment or intimidation is substantiated, the school team should develop a plan of support.

SECTION 7: PGCPS Code of Student Conduct

PGCPS is committed to providing a safe and orderly learning environment conducive to rigorous instruction. Students must maintain appropriate behaviors at all times whether face-to-face or in an approved online instruction.

Escalated or repeated behaviors may result in further responses according to the Student Code of Conduct. The student will receive due process, beginning with referral to the administrator with written documentation by the referring adult, contact to parent/guardian, and an opportunity to present what happened. If the administrator finds the student responsible for the violation, he/she will determine the appropriate response within the Student Code of Conduct.

Technology

Students shall:

• Know their login information
• Report virtually to their scheduled class on time
• Be respectful to adults and peers
• Follow PGCPS technology equipment user agreement
• Follow Use of Technology guidelines (provided in this handbook)

Students shall not:

• Share their user account information or password with others
• Attempt to bypass security restriction and computer devices, networks, or internet access
• Use network account for non-school related activities
• Copy licensed software, download or copy files without permission
• Create, access, or distribute offensive, obscene, bullying or otherwise inappropriate materials 
• Capture images or recordings of other students or staff from another device
• Use inappropriate screensavers
• Use inappropriate background setting
• Intentionally damage technology

Consequences for misuse may include, but are not limited to, suspension of equipment access, confiscation of the technological device, disciplinary action commensurate with the level of misconduct and/or legal action as appropriate. Complete guidelines for the acceptable use of technology are contained in Administrative Procedure 0700.

Face Mask Policy

When responding to public health threats such as COVID-19, Maryland school districts have flexibility in determining mask-wearing policies. In July 2022, PGCPS transitioned from mandatory mask-wearing to a mask-optional policy for the first time since the onset of the pandemic.

In light of the highly contagious COVID-19 BA.5 variant, PGCPS returned to a mandatory mask policy in all schools and facilities on August 15, 2022. This decision was recommended by the Prince George’s County Health Department.

Mask policy is subject to change according to local and/or state health department guidance and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations.

The Level of Responses and Interventions chart is used to correct inappropriate behavior and actions of PGCPS students. If interventions are successful, a referral to the school administrator may not be necessary. These interventions aim to teach, correct and replace behaviors so students can learn and demonstrate safe and respectful behaviors. Staff members are encouraged to implement a variety of teaching and classroom management strategies.

Staff members are encouraged to implement various levels of responses and interventions with students at all times during regularly scheduled school hours. In addition, this procedure applies while a student is located on or off school property during field trips, school sponsored events, athletic functions, while being transported on PGCPS vehicles and during any other school related extracurricular activity.

Administrators are encouraged to use the lowest Level of Response to address inappropriate behavior. Serious behaviors that are deemed harmful to the safe and orderly environment of the school will be addressed at the highest level.

Response Level 1

These responses aim to teach and correct inappropriate behavior so students can learn, act respectfully and contribute to a safe environment. The classroom teacher or counselor will correct the behavior of the student committing a minor offense. Teachers are encouraged to try a variety of teaching and classroom management strategies. This response can be used when the student has no history of prior incidents.

Interventions

• Contact parent via telephone, e-mail or text message
• Conduct a teacher or student conference
• Correct and provide verbal redirection in the classroom
• Establish the buddy teacher system (placing a student in temporary time out in another classroom)
• Develop a daily behavior progress sheet
• Take time with a student to reflect on the behavior or allow the student to apologize
• Remove classroom privileges from a student (does not include recess)
• Reassign the student’s classroom seat
• Referral to School Instructional Team (SIT)
• Referral to IEP/504 team (students with disabilities)
• Restorative approaches (affective statements, restorative chat)
• Referral to Professional School Counselor and Mental Health Clinician

Response Level 2

The administrator, pupil personnel worker or counselor will work with the student to correct the behavior of the student commit- ting the violation. This level will be appropriate for incidents that are inappropriate and disruptive to the learning environment. These responses address the potential implications for future harm while keeping the student in school.

Interventions

• Change in schedule or class
• Reprimand by appropriate administrator
• Parent/guardian notification
• Mentoring Program
• Revision to IEP/504 plan (for students with disabilities)
• Loss of privileges
• In-school suspension
• Detention
• Referral to Pupil Personnel Worker
• Restitution
• Conflict resolution and community conferencing
• Assignment of work projects
• Referral to School Counselor or Mental Health Clinician
• Referral to community organizations
• Referral to School Psychologist
• Referral to School Instructional Team (SIT)
• Referral to IEP/504 team (students with disabilities)
• Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)/Behavioral Intervention Plan
• Restorative approaches (restorative conversation/chat)
• In-School intervention

Interventions

• Referral to Professional School Counselor and Mental Health Clinician
• Behavioral Intervention Plan
• Referral to community organizations
• Community Conferencing
• Referral to Office of Student Engagement and School Support
• Referral to IEP/504 team (students with disabilities) for manifestation determination
• Alternative educational placement
• Behavioral Threat Assessment
• Extended suspension (between 11 and 45 days)
• Expulsion (45 days or longer; to be considered in most extreme cases)

Suspension and Expulsion of Students with Disabilities

Please refer to Chapter 18 of the Special Education Process Guide which sets forth the federal and state regulations that must be followed when a student with a disability under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act. is recommended for suspension or expulsion. Chapter 18 also provides the specific processes, timelines, and due process procedures that must be followed for a student with a disability when disciplinary procedures are implemented.

PGCPS Code of Student Conduct: Pre-K - Grade 2 Disciplinary Response Levels

Maryland law restricts suspension and expulsion of students in Pre-K through Grade 2. Principals/designees must consult with a school psychologist or other mental health professionals to determine if there is an imminent threat of serious harm to other students or staff that cannot be reduced or eliminated through other interventions and supports. If all measures have been exhausted, the child’s suspension cannot exceed five school days. Expulsions of students in Pre-K through Grade 2 are limited to circumstances required by Federal law.

Interventions

• Notify parent/guardian
• Behavior contract
• De-escalation
• School-based mentoring
• Restorative approaches
• Review of class rules
• Code of Conduct lessons
• Behavior Intervention Plan
• Check in, check out
• Conference with parent/guardian
• Parent shadowing
• Redirection
• Positive Behavior and Supports (PBIS)
• Referral to school-based student support
• Referral to Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 team
• Functional Behavioral Assessment
• Safety plan
• Threat determination
• In-school intervention
• Meeting with mental health professional
• Referral to community board services
• Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI)
• Referral to Professional School Counselor and Mental Health Clinician

PGCPS Code of Student Conduct: Grades 3-12 Disciplinary Response Levels

SECTION 8: Disciplinary Response Terms

Long-Term Suspension

A long-term suspension denies a student the right to attend school and to take part in any school function for 4-10 days.

Review of Long-Term Suspension

A review of a long-term suspension shall not serve to delay the suspension. A request for a review of a long-term suspension is accepted as evidence that the parent/guardian wishes a formal review of the suspension, the parent is to contact the Pupil Personnel Worker to request the review. The Pupil Personnel Worker shall meet with the principal to review the circumstances of the suspension and, if appropriate, meet with the principal and parent together to resolve the request for a review.

Extended Suspension

Extended suspension means the exclusion of a student’s regular program for a time period between 11 and 45 school days; which only may occur under the following circumstances:

1. The CEO/designee has determined that
   1. The student’s return to school prior to the completion of the suspension would pose an imminent threat of serious harm to other students and/or staff; or
   2. The student stunt has engaged in a chronic and extreme disruption of the educational process that has created a substantial barrier to learning for other students across the school day and other available and appropriate behavioral and disciplinary interventions have been exhausted.
2. The CEO/designee limits the duration of the exclusion to the shortest period practicable, and
3. The school system provides the excluded student with comparable services and appropriate behavioral support services to promote successful return to the student’s regular academic program.

The principal will request the extended suspension from the CEO/designee. Parent/guardian will receive an investigative report from the Pupil Personnel Worker prior to the CEO/designee’s conference. A Pupil Personnel Worker or CEO’s designee will meet with the student, parent/guardian and requesting school within ten days of the student’s removal from school. After the conference, notice of the decision must be in writing and must inform the parent/guardian of the charges and policy or policies violated. Appropriate and available behavioral support services will be offered. If the principal’s request for an extended suspension is not granted, the student will be returned to school and the principal or his/her designee will contact the parent/guardian to schedule an intake conference.

Appeal of Extended Suspension

A student who is suspended for more than ten school days may appeal the decision to the Board of Education within ten days after determination. After receipt of the written request for appeal, the Board will conduct a hearing. The parties may bring counsel and witnesses to the hearing. The appeal to the Board does not stay the decision of the Chief Executive Officer or designee. The Board will render its decision in writing within 45 days of the request for appeal.

Expulsion

An expulsion from school denies students the right to attend their regular school program for 45 days or longer. The exclusion may occur only under the following circumstances:

1. The CEO or designated representative has determined that the student’s return to school prior to the completion of the expulsion period would pose an imminent threat of serious harm to other students or staff.
2. The CEO or designated representative limits the duration of the exclusion to the shortest period practicable.

The principal will request an expulsion from the CEO or designee. Parent/guardian will receive an investigative report from the Pupil Personnel Worker prior to the CEO/designee’s conference. Appropriate and available behavioral support services may be offered. A due process hearing will be held within 10 school days. If expelled, the student may be placed in an alternative program. If not placed in an alternative program, missed classwork and assignments will be provided via the School Liaison.

Appeal of Expulsion

A student who is expelled may appeal the decision of the Chief Executive Officer or designee in writing to the Board of Education within ten days after the determination.

Readmission After Expulsion

To be readmitted to a regular school program after serving an expulsion, the student or the parent/guardian, acting for the student, may apply to the Expulsion Review Board. If the student has not violated any of the criminal laws of the State of Maryland or any other jurisdiction during the period of expulsion, the Chief Executive Officer may readmit the student.

SECTION 9: Transportation and Bus Behavior

Riding the school bus is an integral part of the school day for many students, and directives in this Code apply fully to students when they ride the bus. Riding the bus is a privilege. This privilege may be temporarily denied or permanently revoked if misconduct jeopardizes the safe operation of the school bus or the safety of students riding the bus.

SECTION 10: Policies and Procedures

Gangs, Gang Activity and Similar Destructive or Illegal Behavior

Gang, gang activity and similar destructive or illegal behaviors are prohibited under the Code of Student Conduct, in accordance with The Safe Schools Act of 2010.

A student may not threaten an individual, or a friend or family member of an individual, with use of physical force or violence to coerce, induce or solicit the individual to participate in or prevent the individual from leaving a criminal gang; a) in a school vehicle, or b) in or within 1000 feet of real property owned or leased by the Board of Education. A student criminally charged with participating in a criminal street gang may automatically be remanded to an alternative education program by the court. When said behavior may substantially disrupt the educational environment, the school will provide the family with a list of community resources and proceed with Transfer Requirements.

Behaviors may include, but are not limited to:

• Gang recruitment
• Gang initiation (hazing)
• Group fighting
• Bullying
• Bias harassment
• Defacing school property with gang graffiti
• Throwing gang signs
• Threatening to retaliate against a student or staff for reporting said behavior

Board of Education Policies and Administrative Procedures

See the Board of Education Policies and Administrative Procedures

SECTION 11: Glossary

Sexual Misconduct

Sexual harassment (e.g., unwelcome sexual advances; request for sexual favors; and other inappropriate verbal, written or physical conduct of a sexual nature).

Shakedown/Strong Arm/Extortion

The act of obtaining under duress or by threat, borrowing, or attempting to borrow, any money or thing of value from a person in the school, or at a school sponsored activity, unless both parties enter into the agreement freely and without the presence of an implied or express threat.

Serious Bodily Injury

Severe physical damage or harm caused to the structure or function of the body caused by an outside agent or force requiring extensive medical treatment or hospitalization. Such injuries would include substantial risk of death; temporary or permanent loss of, or loss of the use of, any body part; unconsciousness; disfigurement; and/or prolonged physical pain.

Suspension

The denial of the right of a student to attend school and participate in all school-related activities for a period of time determined by the principal or the Chief Executive Officer or designee. The student remains enrolled in the school system and is eligible to receive and make-up all homework/classwork missed during the period of suspension.

Theft

The act of taking or acquiring the property of others without their consent.

Threat

Aggressive verbal or written language or gestures directed towards a student, a Prince George’s County employee and/or any other person lawfully on school property or during distance learning. A threat, which seems like a joke to you, could be taken seriously by someone else. This includes threats made verbally, via text, email, or posted on the internet. Students should avoid making threats. Students who have been found responsible for threats will face disciplinary action under the Code of Student Conduct, including suspension, transfer to a different school, and referral to law enforcement, if warranted.

Threat Assessment

A process that addresses a transient, imminent substantive, or very substantive threat.

Threats of Mass Violence

A threat that places reasonable fear that a crime will be committed, impacts a decline in school attendance, causes an evacuation from the dwelling, storehouse, or public place, or requires individuals to remain within the designated place for an undersigned period of time.

Tobacco Violations

The act of possessing, using or distributing tobacco or nicotine products (including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, ci- gars, pipe, tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco or smokeless tobacco) anywhere on school property and/or during school-sponsored events.

Trespassing

Unauthorized presence on school property after being warned to leave, or presence on school property after being warned not to come onto school property. This includes while a student is on suspension.

Truancy

Being unlawfully absent from school for 8 days or more in a quarter, 15 days in a semester, or 20 days in a school year.

Unauthorized Departure from School

Leaving school or a school-related activity without the permission from parent and appropriate school official.

Unauthorized Possession, Use or Distribution of Over-the-Counter Medication

The possession, use or distribution of unregulated medications including, but not limited to, cold medications, cough syrup, pain medications, antihistamines, herbal supplements, vitamins, and other medications for sale without a physician’s prescription.

Unauthorized Use of Electronic and/or Portable Communication Devices (PEDs)

(Excluding use of a device in a school emergency or preapproved situation.) Persistently having out a personal electronic device or using a PED without permission, or inappropriately using a PED after student has been warned. Devices include cell phones, music players, tablets, electronic gaming devices and other portable electronic devices.