section37h

Policies relative to conduct of teachers or students: Student Handbooks**
 * Section 37H
 * Superintendent must publish and make public district policies pertaining to teacher and student conduct.


 * Each district’s policy and student handbook must include:**
 * Disciplinary proceedings
 * Procedures for due process
 * Standards & procedures for suspension and expulsion.
 * Discipline of students with Special Needs,
 * Procedures to assure building security & safety of student & school personnel,
 * Disciplinary measures taken involving possession of illegal weapons, substances, assault, vandalism, & violation of student’s civil rights.


 * Key Points for Administrators**
 * Each school of grades 9-12 must distribute student handbooks to each student- signature??
 * School council reviews handbook each Spring to consider changes in policies/procedures for following September. Can consider policy changes at anytime.


 * Provisions for expulsion:**
 * Any student in possession of a weapon, controlled substance etc. on school grounds or school related event __may__ be subject to expulsion.
 * Any student who assaults, faculty member or other school personnel __may__ be subject to expulsion
 * Principal must notify student in writing of his/her rights to a hearing with representation and opportunity to present evidence and witnesses in front of the principal.
 * After this hearing, principal may suspend rather than expel.
 * Once expelled, student has 10 days from the date of expulsion to inform SI of appeal. Right to council at this hearing.
 * No school or school district within Commonwealth is required to admit said student or provide Ed. Services.
 * If student does apply to another school/district - Superintendent of applied district has right to ask for reasons of expulsion