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- JKF-R
NEPN/NSBA Code: JKF-R DISCIPLINARY REMOVAL OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE These procedures shall govern disciplinary removals of students with disabilities from their regular school program. These procedures shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with state and federal special education laws and regulations. A. School administrators may suspend students with disabilities for up to 10 cumulative school days in the school year under the same terms and conditions as students without disabilities are suspended, subject to the limitations set forth below. 1. In the event that a disabled student’s IEP specifically lists a school response other than a suspension that must be followed for a particular type of misconduct, the school administrator shall follow the requirements of the IEP in responding to that misbehavior. 2. When calculating the 10 cumulative school day total, school administrators shall include school days spent in an in-school suspension or removal, unless during that removal the child continued to have access to the general curriculum, to the special education services in his or her IEP, and to participation with non-disabled children to the extent he or she would have in the student’s regular program. B. After a student with a disability has been removed from his/her current placement for 10 cumulative school days in the same school year, during any subsequent days of removal the school administrator shall consult with at least one of the student’s teachers and then shall arrange for the student to receive a level of educational services during the removal sufficient to enable the student to continue to participate in the general curriculum, although in another setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals listed in the student’s IEP. C. Within 10 school days of any decision to “change the placement” of a student with a disability because of a violation of a code of student conduct, school officials shall hold an IEP team meeting to undertake the following. 1. The Team shall review all relevant information in the student’s file including the IEP, any teacher observations, and recent evaluations. 2. The Team shall then undertake a manifestation determination to decide whether the student’s misconduct was a manifestation of his/her disability. 3. If the Team determines that the misbehavior is a manifestation of the disability, the Team must either: a. Conduct a functional behavior assessment, unless one had been conducted before the behavior incident, and shall implement a behavior intervention plan for the child; or b. If a behavior plan has already been developed, review the plan and modify it as necessary to address the behavior. Except as provided in D. below, the Team must also return the student to the placement from which he/she was removed, unless the school and parent agree to a change of placement as part of the revision of the behavior plan. 4. If the Team determines that the misbehavior is not a manifestation of the disability, school personnel may apply the relevant disciplinary procedures in the same manner and for the same duration as the procedures would be applied to students without disabilities, except that services must be provided to the student during the disciplinary removal consistent with 5. (C.) below. 5. When a student with a disability has a disciplinary removal that would be a “change of placement,” the IEP Team shall order services for the student that will enable the student to: a. Continue to participate in the general curriculum although in another setting; b. Progress toward meeting the goals in the IEP; and c. Receive, as appropriate, a functional behavior assessment and behavior intervention services and modifications that are designed to address the behavior violation so that it does not recur. 6. For purposes of this section, a “change of placement” occurs if: a. The removal is for more than 10 consecutive school days; or b. The child has been subjected to a series of removals that constitute a pattern and: 1) Because the series of removals totals more than 10 cumulative days in the school year; 2) Because the child’s behavior is substantially similar to the behavior in previous incidents resulting in the series of removals; and 3) Because of additional factors such as the length of each removal, the total length, and the proximity of the removals to each other. D. In those circumstances where a student brings a weapon to school, to a school function, or on school premises (including transportation); where a student knowingly possesses, uses, sells, or attempts to sell illegal drugs at school, a school function, or on school premises (including transportation); or when the student inflicts serious bodily injury upon another person while at school, a school function, or on school premises (including transportation) school officials may place that student in an alternative educational setting for up to 45 school days, shall provide educational services for the student consistent with 5. C. above, and shall schedule an IEP Team meeting to occur within 10 school days of commencing that removal. At that meeting, the Team shall undertake all necessary actions discussed in these procedures for responding to removals that constitute a change of placement for the student. Any further removals in response to the incident shall be made consistent with these procedures and state and federal special education rules. Legal Reference: Ch. 101 § XVII (Me. Dept. of Educ. Rules) (2007) 34 C.F.R. § 300.101, .530-.536 (2006) Revised: September 22, 2016
- JKF
NEPN/NSBA Code: JKF SUSPENSION/EXPULSION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS Except as provided by federal law, no identified special education student shall be expelled or suspended in excess of 10 cumulative days in the school year for misconduct related to the student’s disability. If expulsion or suspension in excess of 10 cumulative days is to be considered, the student’s pupil evaluation team (“PET”) shall make the determination whether the misconduct in question, including any past incidents of misconduct which may be considered in making the disciplinary decision, is related to the student’s disability. For misconduct that is related to the student’s disability, the student’s PET may determine what programming or placement alterations are warranted beyond the 10 cumulative days of suspension permitted under this policy. For misconduct unrelated to the student’s disability, MSAD #60 may proceed with a suspension or expulsion consistent with law and with school policy. During any such removal in excess of 10 cumulative days in the school year, the PET shall offer free and appropriate educational services to the special education student off school grounds. MSAD #60 shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws governing suspension and expulsion of students with disabilities. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA Subsection 1001 (9); (9-B) 20 USC § 1415(k)(1)(A), (3)(B), (5)(A) Adopted: May 13, 1999 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: September 22, 2016
- JKE
NEPN/NSBA Code: JKE EXPULSION OF STUDENTS No student shall be expelled from school except by action of the Board. The Board shall expel students as provided in 20-A MRSA § 1001(9) and (9A). The Board also has the authority to readmit an expelled student on satisfactory evidence that the behavior which was the cause of the student being expelled will not likely recur. The parents/guardians (and the student if 18 years of age or older) shall be notified by certified letter and regular mail of the Board expulsion hearing. The hearing shall be in a properly called executive session and may also be attended by persons designated by the Superintendent to present information in the case. The notice of hearing shall include: A. The date, time and location of the hearing; B. A description of the charge(s); C. A statement that the student may be represented by legal counsel; D. A statement that the student or his/her representative may cross-examine any witnesses presented by the administration at the hearing; and E. A statement that the parents/guardians and student may present evidence, including witnesses and documents, on the student’s behalf. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 1001(9)(9A) 1 MRSA § 405(6)(B) Cross Reference: JICIA – Weapons, Violence and School Safety JK - Student Discipline JKD - Suspension of Students JKF – Suspension/Expulsion of Students with Disabilities Adopted: January 5, 1995 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: September 21, 2017
- JKD
NEPN/NSBA Code: JKD SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS The Board of Directors delegates to the principals the authority to suspend disobedient and disorderly students for a period not to exceed ten (10) school days. Suspensions longer than 10 days may be imposed by the Board. Prior to the suspension, except as hereinafter provided: A. The student shall be given oral or written notice of the charge(s) against him/her; B. The student shall be given an explanation of the evidence forming the basis for the charge(s); and C. The student shall be given an opportunity to present his/her version of the incident. However, students whose presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the instructional process may be immediately removed from school. In such cases, the notice of charges, explanation of evidence, and the student’s opportunity to present his/her version of the incident shall be arranged as soon as practicable after removal of the student from school. The student’s parents/guardians shall be notified of the suspension as soon as practicable by telephone (if possible) and by written notice sent by mail. A copy of the notice shall also be sent to the Office of the Superintendent. The parent/guardians and the student may be required to schedule a conference with the building administrator/designee within the suspension period and prior to re-admittance to school. Students shall be responsible for any schoolwork missed during their suspension. After re-admittance, they shall be permitted to take tests, quizzes or any other form of evaluation affecting their grades. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 1001.9 Cross Reference: JICIA – Weapons, Violence and School Safety JK - Student Discipline JKE - Expulsion of Students JKF – Suspension/Expulsion of Students with Disabilities Adopted: May 24, 2001 Revised: September 21, 2017
- JKAA-R
NEPN/NSBA Code: JKAA-R PROCEDURES ON PHYSICAL RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION These procedures are established for the purpose of meeting the obligations of M.S.A.D #60 under state law/regulations and Board Policy JKAA governing the use of physical restraint and seclusion. These procedures shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with state law and regulations. I. DEFINITIONS. For purposes of these procedures, the terms “physical restraint” and “seclusion” shall have the meanings defined in Policy JKAA. Definitions for other important terms in this procedure include: A. Emergency: A sudden, urgent occurrence, usually unexpected, but sometimes anticipated, that requires immediate action. B. Risk of injury or harm: A situation in which a student has the means to cause physical harm or injury to him/herself or others and such injury or harm is likely to occur, such that a reasonable and prudent person would take steps to protect the student and others against the risk of such injury or harm. C. Dangerous behavior: Behavior that presents a risk of injury or harm to a student or others. D. Serious bodily injury: Any bodily injury that involves: (1) A substantial risk of death; (2) Extreme physical pain; (3) Protracted and obvious disfigurement; or (4) Protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ or mental faculty. II. PHYSICAL RESTRAINT. To the extent possible, physical restraint will be implemented by staff certified in a training program approved by the Maine Department of Education. If untrained staff have intervened and initiated a physical restraint in an emergency, trained staff must be summoned to the scene to assume control of the situation if the emergency continues. This procedure does not preclude law enforcement personnel from implementing physical restraints in carrying out their professional responsibilities. A. Permitted Uses of Physical Restraint 1. Physical restraint may be used only as an emergency intervention when the behavior of a student presents a risk of injury or harm to the student or others, and only after other less intrusive interventions have failed or been deemed inappropriate. 2. Physical restraint may be used to move a student only if the need for movement outweighs the risk involved in such movement. 3. Prescribed medications, harnesses, and other assistive or protective devices may be used as permitted by Rule Chapter 33. 4. Parents may be requested to provide assistance at any time. B. Prohibited Forms and Uses of Physical Restraint 1. Physical restraint used for punitive purposes; as a therapeutic or educational intervention; for staff convenience; or to control challenging behavior. 2. Physical restraint used to prevent property destruction or disruption of the environment in the absence of a risk of injury or harm. 3. Physical restraint that restricts the free movement of a student’s diaphragm or chest, or that restricts the airway so as to interrupt normal breathing or speech (restraint-related asphyxia). 4. Physical restraint that relies on pain for control, including but not limited to joint hyperextension, excessive force, unsupported take-downs (e.g., tackles), the use of any physical structure (e.g., wall, railing or post), punching and hitting. 5. Aversive procedures and mechanical and chemical restraints. a. Aversive procedures are defined as the use of a substance or stimulus, intended to modify behavior, which the person administering it knows or should know is likely to cause physical and/or emotional trauma to a student, even when the substance or stimulus appears to be pleasant or neutral to others. Such substances and stimuli include but are not limited to infliction of bodily pain (e.g., hitting, pinching, slapping); water spray; noxious fumes; extreme physical exercise; costumes or signs. b. Mechanical restraints are defined as any item worn by or placed on the student to limit behavior or movement and which cannot be removed by the student. Prescribed assistive devices are not considered mechanical restraints when used as prescribed and their use is supervised by qualified and trained individuals in accordance with professional standards. c. Chemical restraints are defined as the use of medication, including those administered PRN (as needed), given involuntarily to control student behavior. Prescribed medications are not considered chemical restraints when administered by a health care provider in accordance with a student’s health care plan. C. Monitoring Students in Physical Restraint 1. At least two adults must be present at all times when physical restraint is used except when, for safety reasons, waiting for a second adult to arrive is precluded by the particular circumstances. 2. The student must be continuously monitored until he/she no longer presents a risk of injury or harm to him/herself or others. 3. If an injury occurs, applicable school policies and procedures should be followed. D. Termination of Physical Restraint 1. The staff involved in the use of physical restraint must continually assess for signs that the student is no longer presenting a risk of injury or harm to him/herself or others, and the emergency intervention must be discontinued as soon as possible. a. The time a student is in physical restraint must be monitored and recorded. b. If physical restraint continues for more than ten (10) minutes, an administrator/designee shall determine whether continued physical restraint is warranted, and shall continue to monitor the status of the physical restraint every ten (10) minutes until the restraint is terminated. c. If attempts to release a student from physical restraint have been unsuccessful and the student continues to present behaviors that create a risk of injury or harm to him/herself or others, then staff may request additional assistance from other school staff, parents, medical providers,or other appropriate persons or organizations. III. SECLUSION. To the extent possible, seclusion will be implemented by staff certified in a training program approved by the Maine Department of Education. If untrained staff have intervened and initiated seclusion in an emergency, trained staff must be summoned to the scene as soon as possible. A “timeout” where a student requests, or complies with an adult request for, a break is not considered seclusion under this procedure. Seclusion also does not include any situation where others are present in the room or defined area with the student (including but not limited to classrooms, offices and other school locations). A. Permitted Uses and Location of Seclusion 1. Seclusion may be used only as an emergency intervention when the behavior of a student presents a risk of injury or harm to the student or others, and only after other less intrusive interventions have failed or been deemed inappropriate. 2. Seclusion may be achieved in any part of a school building with adequate light, heat, ventilation and of normal room height. a. Seclusion may not take place in a locked room. b. If a specific room is designated as a seclusion room, it must be a minimum of sixty (60) square feet; have adequate light, heat and ventilation; be of normal room height; contain an unbreakable observation window in a wall or door; and must be free of hazardous materials and objects which the student could use to self-inflict bodily injury. 3. Parents may be requested to provide assistance at any time. B. Prohibited Uses of Seclusion 1. Seclusion used for punitive purposes; as a therapeutic or educational intervention; for staff convenience; or to control challenging behavior. 2. Seclusion used to prevent property destruction or disruption of the environment in the absence of a risk of injury or harm. C. Monitoring Students in Seclusion 1. At least one adult must be physically present at all times to continuously monitor a student in seclusion. The adult, while not present in the room or defined area, must be situated so that the student is visible at all times. 2. The student must be continuously monitored until he/she no longer presents a risk of injury or harm to him/herself or others. 3. If an injury occurs, applicable school policies and procedures should be followed. D. Termination of Seclusion 1. The staff involved in the seclusion must continually assess for signs that the student is no longer presenting a risk of injury or harm to him/herself or others, and the emergency intervention must be discontinued as soon as possible. a. The time a student is in seclusion must be monitored and recorded. b. If seclusion continues for more than ten (10) minutes, an administrator/designee shall determine whether continued seclusion is warranted, and shall continue to monitor the status of the seclusion every ten (10) minutes until the restraint is terminated. c. If attempts to release a student from seclusion have been unsuccessful and the student continues to present behaviors that create an imminent risk of injury or harm to him/herself or others, then staff may request additional assistance from other school staff, parents, medical providers, or other appropriate persons or organizations. IV. NOTIFICATION AND REPORTS OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION INCIDENTS. For the purposes of this procedure, an “incident” consists of all actions between the time a student begins to create a risk of harm and the time the student ceases to pose a risk of harm and returns to his/her regular programming. A. Notice Requirements After each incident of physical restraint or seclusion: 1. A staff member involved in the incident shall make an oral notification to the administrator/designee as soon as possible, but no later than the end of the school day. 2. An administrator/designee shall notify the parent/legal guardian about the physical restraint or seclusion (and any related first aid provided) as soon as practical, but within the school day in which the incident occurred. The administrator/designee must utilize all available phone number or other available contact information to reach the parent/legal guardian. If the parent/legal guardian is unavailable, the administrator/designee must leave a message (if the parent/legal guardian has a phone and message capability) to contact the school as soon as possible. The parent/legal guardian must be informed that written documentation will be provided within seven (7) calendar days. 3. If the physical restraint or seclusion incident occurred outside the school day, the notifications must be made as soon as possible and in accordance with M.S.A.D #60 usual emergency notification procedures. 4. If serious bodily injury or death of a student occurs during the implementation of physical restraint or seclusion, M.S.A.D #60 emergency notification procedures shall be followed and an administrator/designee shall notify the Maine Department of Education within twenty-four (24) hours or the next business day. B. Incident Reports Each use of physical restraint or seclusion must be documented in an incident report. The incident report must be completed and provided to an administrator/designee as soon as practical, and in all cases within two (2) school days of the incident. The parent/legal guardian must be provided a copy of the incident report within seven (7) calendar days of the incident. The incident report must include the following elements: 1. Student name; 2. Age, gender and grade; 3. Location of the incident; 4. Date of the incident; 5. Date of report; 6. Person completing the report; 7. Beginning and ending time of each physical restraint and/or seclusion; 8. Total time of incident; 9. Description of prior events and circumstances; 10. Less restrictive interventions tried prior to the use of physical restraint and/or seclusion and, if none were used, the reasons why; 11. The student behavior justifying the use of physical restraint or seclusion; 12. A detailed description of the physical restraint or seclusion used; 13. The staff person(s) involved, their role in the physical restraint or seclusion, and whether each person is certified in an approved training program; 14. Description of the incident, including the resolution and process of returning the student to his/her program, if appropriate; 15. Whether the student has an IEP, 504 Plan, behavior plan, IHP (individual health plan) or any other plan; 16. If a student and/or staff sustained bodily injury, the date and time of nurse or other response personnel notification and any treatment administered; 17. The date, time and method of parent/legal guardian notification; 18. The date and time of administrator/designee notification; and 19. Date and time of staff debriefing. Copies of the incident reports shall be maintained in the student’s file and in the school office. V. SCHOOL UNIT RESPONSE FOLLOWING THE USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINT OR SECLUSION. A. Following each incident of physical restraint or seclusion, an administrator/designee shall take these steps within two (2) school days (unless serious bodily injury requiring emergency medical treatment occurred, in which case these steps must take place as soon as possible, but no later than the next school day): 1. Review the incident with all staff persons involved to discuss: (a) whether the use of physical restraint or seclusion complied with state and school board requirements and (b) how to prevent or reduce the need for physical restraint and/or seclusion in the future. 2. Meet with the student who was physically restrained or secluded to discuss: (a) what triggered the student’s escalation and (b) what the student and staff can do to reduce the need for physical restraint and/or seclusion in the future. B. Following the meetings, staff must develop and implement a written plan for response and de-escalation for the student. If a plan already exists, staff must review it and make revisions, if appropriate. For the purposes of this procedure, “de-escalation” is the use of behavior management techniques intended to cause a situation involving problem behavior of a student to become more controlled, calm and less dangerous, thus reducing the risk of injury or harm. VI. PROCEDURE FOR STUDENTS WITH THREE INCIDENTS IN A SCHOOL YEAR. The school unit will make reasonable, documented efforts to encourage parent/legal guardian participation in the meetings required in this section, and to schedule meetings at times convenient for parents/legal guardians to attend. A. Special Education/504 Students 1. After the third incident of physical restraint and/or seclusion in one school year, the student’s IEP or 504 Team shall meet within ten (10) school days of the third incident to discuss the incident and consider the need to conduct an FBA (functional behavioral assessment) and/or develop a BIP (behavior intervention plan), or amend an existing one. B. All Other Students 1. A team consisting of the parent/legal guardian, administrator/designee, a teacher for the student, a staff member involved in the incident (if not the administrator/designee or teacher already invited), and other appropriate staff shall meet within ten (10) school days to discuss the incidents. 2. The team shall consider the appropriateness of a referral to special education and, regardless of whether a referral to special education is made, the need to conduct an FBA (functional behavior assessment) and/or develop a BIP (behavior intervention plan). VII. CUMULATIVE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS A. Reports within the School Unit 1. Each building administrator must report the following data on a quarterly and annual basis: a. Aggregate number of uses of physical restraint; b. Aggregate number of students placed in physical restraint; c. Aggregate number of uses of seclusion; d. Aggregate number of students placed in seclusion; e. Aggregate number of serious bodily injuries to students related to the use of physical restraints and seclusions; and f. Aggregate number of serious bodily injuries to staff related to physical restraint and seclusion. 2. The Superintendent shall review the cumulative reports and identify any areas that could be addressed to reduce the future use of physical restraint and seclusion. B. Reports to Maine Department of Education 1. The Superintendent shall submit an annual report to the Maine Department of Education on an annual basis that includes the information required in Section 7.A.1 above. Legal Reference: Me. DOE Rule, ch. 33 Cross Reference: JKAA – Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion Adopted: October 3, 2002 Revised: October 21, 2010 Revised: September 6, 2012 Revised: May 16, 2013 INCIDENT REPORT UNDER MAINE DOE RULE CHAPTER 33 (PHYSICAL RESTRAINT or SECLUSION OF A STUDENT) Name of School/Program ____________________________________________________ Name of Person Completing the Report _________________________________________ Date of Report __________________________ Student Involved Student name __________________________ Age _____ Gender _____ Grade _____ Student has (check all that apply): IEP _____; 504 plan _____; behavior plan _____; IHP ______; other plan (identify) ____________; none of these plans ________ Description of the Incident Date of incident ___________________ Beginning time of incident ________________ Ending time of incident _____________ Total time of incident ____________________ Location of the incident (be specific) ________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Description of the incident, including the resolution and process of return of student to program (if appropriate) ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Description of prior events and circumstances _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ Less restrictive interventions tried prior to the use of physical restraint/seclusion (if none used, explain why) ________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Student behavior that justified the use of physical restraint/seclusion _______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Description of Restraint or Seclusion; Staff Involved Detailed description of the physical restraint/seclusion used ______________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ ME DOE Incident Form 07-01-12 Staff person(s) involved, their role in the use of physical restraint/seclusion, and their certification, if any, in an approved training program ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Bodily Injury of Student or Staff Did student or a staff member sustain bodily injury? Yes_______ No ________ If yes, name of person(s) sustaining injury ______________________________ Describe injury(ies) sustained _______________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date and time of nurse or response personnel notification and treatment administered (if any)___________________________________________________________________ Did student sustain serious bodily injury or death? Yes ___________ No ____________ If yes, date and time of notification to DOE _______________________________ Notification; Debriefing; Date, time and method of parent notification ____________________________________ Date and time of staff debriefing _____________________________________________ Date and time of student debriefing ___________________________________________ Has student been involved in 2 or more prior incidents during the current school year? Yes ___ No ___ If yes, date and time of required team meeting ______________________________ ME DOE Incident Form 07-01-12 MSAD #60 Approval 09-06-12
- JKAA
NEPN/NSBA Code: JKAA USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION The Board has adopted this policy and the accompanying procedures to implement the standards for use of physical restraint and seclusion with students, as required by state law and regulations, and to support a safe school environment. Physical restraint and seclusion, as defined by this policy, may only be used as an emergency intervention when the behavior of a student presents a risk of injury or harm to the student or others. The Superintendent has overall responsibility for implementing this policy and the accompanying procedure, but may delegate specific responsibilities as he/she deems appropriate. I. DEFINITIONS. The following definitions apply to this policy and procedure: A. Physical restraint: An intervention that restricts a student’s freedom of movement or normal access to his or her body, and includes physically moving a student who has not moved voluntarily. Physical restraint does not include any of the following: 1. Physical escort: A temporary touching or holding inducing a student to walk to another location, including assisting the student to the student’s feet in order to be escorted. 2. Physical prompt: A teaching technique that involves physical contact with the student and that enables the student to learn or model the physical movement necessary for the development of the desired competency. 3. Physical contact: When the purpose of the intervention is to comfort a student and the student voluntarily accepts the contact. 4. A brief period of physical contact necessary to break up a fight. 5. Momentarily deflecting the movement of a student when the student’s movements would be destructive, harmful or dangerous to the student or others. 6. The use of seat belts, safety belts or similar passenger restraints, when used as intended during the transportation of a child in a motor vehicle. 7. The use of a medically prescribed harness, when used as intended; the use of protective equipment or devices that are part of a treatment plan prescribed by a licensed health care provider; or prescribed assistive devices when used as prescribed and supervised by qualified and trained individuals. 8. Restraints used by law enforcement officers or school resource officers employed by the police department in the course of their professional duties are not subject to this policy/procedure or MDOE Rule Chapter 33 9. MDOE Rule Chapter 33 does not restrict or limit the protections available to school officials under 20-A M.R.S.A. § 4009, but those protections do not relieve school officials from complying with this policy/procedure. B. Seclusion: The involuntary confinement of a student alone in a room or clearly defined area from which the student is physically prevented from leaving, with no other person in the room or area with the student. Seclusion does not include: 1. Timeout: An intervention where a student requests, or complies with an adult request for, a break. II. PROCEDURES FOR IMPLEMENTING PHYSICAL RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION. The requirements for implementing physical restraint and seclusion, as well as incident notices, documentation and reporting are included in the accompanying procedure, JKAA-R. III. ANNUAL NOTICE OF POLICY/PROCEDURE. M.S.A.D #60 shall provide annual notice to parents/legal guardians of this policy/procedure by means determined by the Superintendent/designee. IV. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS. A. All school staff and contracted providers shall receive an annual overview of this policy/procedure. B. M.S.A.D #60 will ensure that there are a sufficient number of administrators/designees, special education and other staff who maintain certification in a restraint and seclusion training program approved by the Maine Department of Education. A list of certified staff shall be updated annually and maintained in the Superintendent’s Office, in each school office and in the school unit’s Emergency Management Plan V. PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN COMPLAINT PROCEDURE. A parent/legal guardian who has a complaint concerning the implementation of this policy/procedure must submit it in writing to the Superintendent as soon as possible. The Superintendent/designee shall investigate the complaint and provide written findings to the parent/legal guardian within twenty (20) business days, if practicable. A parent/legal guardian who is dissatisfied with the result of the local complaint process may file a complaint with the Maine Department of Education. The Department of Education will review the results of the local complaint process and may initiate its own investigation at its sole discretion. The Department shall issue a written report with specific findings to the parent/legal guardian and the school unit within 60 calendar days of receiving the complaint. Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. §§ 4502(5) (M); 4009 Me. DOE Rule, ch. 33 Cross Reference: EBCA – Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan JKAA-R – Procedures of Physical Restraint and Seclusion JK – Student Discipline KLG/KLG-R – Relations with Law Enforcement KLGA/KLGA-R – Relations with School Resource Officers Adopted: October 3, 2002 Revised: October 21, 2010 Revised: September 6, 2012 Revised: May 16, 2013
- JK
NEPN/NSBA Code: JK STUDENT DISCIPLINE It is essential for schools to maintain a safe and orderly environment which supports student learning and achievement. Good discipline allows the schools to discharge their primary responsibilities to educate students and promote good citizenship. All students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in accordance with School Board policies, school rules, and applicable state and federal laws. Disciplinary action may be taken against students who violate policies, rules, or laws, and/or whose conduct directly interferes with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school. The Board expects the following principles to guide the development and implementation of school rules and disciplinary procedures: A. Discipline should emphasize positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior, as well as appropriate consequences for misbehavior. The focus should be on providing a school environment where students are engaged in constructive learning and interactions with others. B. Expectations for student behavior should be clear and communicated to school staff, students and parents. C. Consequences for misbehavior should be in proportion to the offense, fair and consistently enforced. D. Parents should be actively involved in the process of preventing and resolving disciplinary problems at school. Any restraint or seclusion of students shall comply with applicable regulations and Board policy. Physical force and corporal punishment shall not be used as disciplinary methods. State law provides that “a teacher or other person entrusted with the care or supervision of a person for special or limited purposes may not be held civilly liable for the use of a reasonable degree of force against the person who creates a disturbance if the teacher or other person reasonably believes it is necessary to a) control the disturbing behavior; or b) remove the person from the scene of the disturbance.” Teachers are authorized to make and enforce rules for effective classroom management and to foster appropriate student behavior, subject to the direction and approval by the Principal/designee. School-wide rules shall be developed by the building principal with appropriate input from school staff, students and parents and subject to approval by the Superintendent. Principals shall provide for the suspension or other serious disciplinary action against students in accordance with Board policies, administrative procedures and Maine law. Students with disabilities shall be disciplined in accordance with applicable federal and state law/regulations. Legal Reference: 17-A MRSA § 106 20-A MRSA § 1001(15A); 4009 Cross Reference: AC - Non Discrimination/Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ACAA – Student Harassment and Sexual Harassment JICIA- Weapons, Violence and School Safety JKAA- Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion JKD - Suspension of Students JKE - Expulsion of Students JKF - Suspension/Expulsion of Students with Disabilities Adopted: March 12, 1987 Revised: May 24, 2001 October 18, 2018
- JJJ
NEPN/NSBA Code: JJJ EXTRACURRICULAR SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY This policy applies to participation in extracurricular activities only. The use, possession, sale, transportation, solicitation and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages and/or of any scheduled drugs and tobacco as defined are strictly prohibited. This policy is not limited to school property or to transportation to and from school events and includes any school related activity. Students found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the following consequences and may also face additional disciplinary action as defined in the MSAD #60 Substance Abuse Policy. Students are encouraged to seek help for substance abuse related problems or incidents. To the degree legally possible, such meetings between students and the counselor will be maintained on a confidential basis. VIOLATIONS: Athletics First Infraction – The first infraction of any of the above, as determined by the school administration and after due process, shall result in: A. A four (4) week suspension (28 days) from participation in all athletic and extra- curricular activities concurrent with any suspension provided in the System-Wide Code of Conduct. The suspension will begin on the date of the incident or the date that the incident was discovered, whichever is later. The suspension will include a minimum of one game, contest or performance. B. After two (2) weeks (14 days), students may be able to practice. Students may not, however, participate in games, competitions or performances. Prior to this, students may have zero contact with their team. C. Students must comply with conditions set forth from the school’s administration and attend a minimum of three (3) counseling sessions through a designated school Counselor before he/she will be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activity. The student and his/her parent/guardian must attend one of the three sessions. D. Students will be ineligible to receive individual honors or awards from the school activity, but will be allowed to receive a letter or certificate if he/she fulfills criteria established by the coach/advisor. E. Students shall forfeit leadership positions for that particular season. Second Infraction: A second infraction of the above, as determined by the school administration, and after due process, will result in: A. Permanent suspension from all athletic teams for the remainder of that season and/or from all extra-curricular activities for the remainder of the school year, concurrent with any suspension provided for in the System-Wide Code of Conduct. B. Interscholastic ineligibility for the next two competitive seasons as defined by the Maine Principal’s Association. C. Student must comply with conditions set forth from the school’s administration and attend a minimum of three (3) counseling sessions through a designated school Counselor before he/she will be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activity. D. Student will be ineligible for awards. Referral Procedures: The referral process exists for students to seek help safely for themselves (self-referral) or for other students (concerned-person referral) whom they suspect or know are involved with tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs or the misuse of legal substances. On the first report of either type of referral (self or concerned-person) the student receives help and will be subject to a 50% suspension policy. (1st Referral – 14 days). The Athletic Director will follow up concerned-person referrals with a thorough investigation. Additional Substance Abuse Prevention Policies. At his/her own discretion, a coach or advisor may check or inspect backpacks, gym bags, and duffel bags. The coach/advisor may exclude from the trip any student who refuses to comply. SMOKING AND OTHER USES OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS are prohibited on school property including transportation to, from and during activities. This policy applies to participation in extra-curricular activities only. The use, possession, sale, transportation, solicitation, and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages and/or any scheduled drugs or tobacco may also bring additional disciplinary action as defined in the MSAD #60 Substance Abuse Policy. Suspensions will carry over from season to season and year to year. - Should the suspension carry over from one season to the next, students will be allowed to try out for the activity. Suspension would then continue once the student has been selected to participate in the activity. - The number of days between the end of school and beginning of the next preseason activity in the next school year shall not be counted as part of the suspension. All violations are cumulative for a student’s entire time of attendance at Noble High School and will be monitored by the Athletic Director. Sport season is defined according to the Maine Principal’s Association guidelines or until the activity’s end of season banquet or awards ceremony or the beginning of the next sports season, whichever comes first. Failure to comply with the full policy may result in the student’s removal from the team or activity. Right of Appeal – Due Process: All athletes with formal suspensions have the right of due process as follows: 1. The violator and parent will be advised of the complaint. 2. The suspension/punishment will be set forth in writing. 3. Suspensions may be appealed by writing a letter to the Athletic Director with a copy to the Principal within four (4) days of the suspension being administered. This letter should request a hearing with the Administrative Council. The Administrative Council will consist of the building Principal, Assistant Principal, a Dean (if applicable) and up to two faculty members. Within five (5) days after the letter is received, the Athletic Director will notify the parents and the participant of the time and place of the appeal hearing. The council will hear both sides of the case and will take the action they consider to be in the best interests of the student and the school. During the appeal procedure, the suspension shall remain in effect unless waived by the school Principal. VIOLATIONS: OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES First Infraction – The first infraction of any of the above, as determined by the school administration and after due process, shall result in: A. A four (4) week suspension (28 days) from participation in all extra-curricular activities concurrent with any suspension provided in the System-Wide Code of Conduct. The suspension will begin on the date of the incident or the date that the incident was discovered, whichever is later. B. Students must comply with conditions set forth from the school’s administration and attend a minimum of three (3) counseling sessions through a designated school Counselor before he/she will be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activity. The student and his/her parent/guardian must attend one of the three sessions. C. Students will be ineligible to receive individual honors or awards from the school activity, but will be allowed to receive a letter or certificate if he/she fulfills criteria established by the coach/advisor. Second Infraction: A second infraction of the above, as determined by the school administration, and after due process, will result in: A. Permanent suspension from all extra-curricular activities for the remainder of the school year, concurrent with any suspension provided for in the System-Wide Code of Conduct. B. Student must comply with conditions set forth from the school’s administration and attend a minimum of three (3) counseling sessions through a designated school Counselor before he/she will be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activity. C. Student will be ineligible for awards. Referral Procedures: The referral process exists for students to seek help safely for themselves (self-referral) or for other students (concerned-person referral) whom they suspect or know are involved with tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs or the misuse of legal substances. On the first report of either type of referral (self or concerned-person) the student receives help and will be subject to a 50% suspension policy. (14 days.) Additional Substance Abuse Prevention Policies. At his/her own discretion, an advisor may check or inspect backpacks, gym bags, and duffel bags. The advisor may exclude from the trip any student who refuses to comply. SMOKING AND OTHER USES OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS are prohibited on school property including transportation to, from and during activities. This policy applies to participation in extra-curricular activities only. The use, possession, sale, transportation, solicitation, and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages and/or any scheduled drugs or tobacco may also bring additional disciplinary action as defined in the MSAD #60 Substance Abuse Policy. Right of Appeal – Due Process: All students with formal suspensions have the right of due process as follows: 1. The violator and parent will be advised of the complaint. 2. The suspension/punishment will be set forth in writing. 3. Suspensions may be appealed by writing a letter to the Principal within four (4) days of the suspension being administered. This letter should request a hearing with the Administrative Council. The Administrative Council will consist of the building Principal, Assistant Principal, a Dean (if applicable) and up to two faculty members. Within five (5) days after the letter is received, the Principal will notify the parents and the participant of the time and place of the appeal hearing. The council will hear both sides of the case and will take the action they consider to be in the best interests of the student and the school. During the appeal procedure, the suspension shall remain in effect unless waived by the school Principal. This policy applies to participation in extracurricular activities only. The use, possession, sale, transportation and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages and/or any scheduled drugs or tobacco may also bring additional disciplinary action as defined in the MSAD #60 Substance Abuse Policy. Adopted: July 2, 2002 Revised and Adopted: June 23, 2011
- JJIF
NEPN/NSBA Code: JJIF CONCUSSION POLICY The MSAD #60 Board of Directors recognizes that concussion and other head injuries are serious and could result in significant brain damage and/or death if not recognized and managed properly. The Board adopts this policy to promote the safety of students participating in school activities, including but not limited to extracurricular athletic activities and interscholastic sports. TRAINING By August 31, or prior to the beginning of each sports season, school personnel (including volunteers) identified by the MSAD #60 Concussion Policy Management Team, must be made aware of this school policy and protocols related to the management of concussive injuries and participate in concussion awareness training, that includes recognizing signs and symptoms that may suggest a concussive or other head injury. This training must be consistent with protocols as identified or developed by the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and include instructions in the use of reporting forms as required by the DOE. Coaches are required to undergo refresher training every two years based on the recommendations of the DOE and/or when protocols and forms have been revised. STUDENT AND PARENTS/GUARDIANS Annually at the beginning of each year, students intending to participate in school-sponsored athletic activities and parents/guardians of these students will be provided information including: A. The risk of concussion and other head injuries and the dangers associated with continuing to participate when a concussion or other head injury is suspected; B. The signs and symptoms associated with concussion and other head injuries; and C. MSAD #60’s protocols for: 1) Removal of the student from the activity when the student is suspected of having sustained a concussion or other head injury, 2) Evaluation, and 3) Return to full participation in school activities. The student participating in sports and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign a statement acknowledging that they received and read this information before the student is allowed to participate in any school-sponsored athletic activity. MANAGEMENT OF CONCUSSIVE AND OTHER HEAD INJURIES It is the responsibility of staff members involved in school activities and trained in the signs and symptoms related to concussion or other head injury, to act in accordance with this policy when the staff member recognizes that a student may be exhibiting such signs and symptoms of a concussion. Any student suspected of having sustained a concussion or other head injury during a school activity including but not limited to participation in interscholastic sports, must be removed from the activity immediately. A student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) will be informed of the need for an evaluation for brain injury before the student is allowed to return to full participation in school activities including learning. No student is permitted to return to the activity or to participate in other school activities on the day of the suspected concussion. Any student having sustained a head injury is prohibited from further participation in any school activities until he/she is evaluated for concussion. If a concussion is suspected, the student must be removed from school activities and evaluated by a licensed health care provider trained in concussion management. If a concussion is confirmed, the student is not permitted to return to full participation in any school activities until medically cleared to do so by a licensed health care provider trained in concussion management. More than one evaluation by the student’s health care provider may be necessary before the student is cleared for full participation. Coaches and other school personnel shall comply with the student’s treating health care provider trained in concussion management recommendations regarding gradual return to participation. If at any time during the return to full participation in school activities the student exhibits signs and symptoms of concussion, the student must be removed from the activities and be re-evaluated by the treating licensed health care provider trained in concussion management. COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS School personnel should be alert to cognitive and academic issues that may be experienced by a student who has suffered a concussion or other head injury, including but not limited to: * Difficulty with concentration, organization, long-and-short term memory and * Sensitivity to bright light and sounds. School personnel shall accommodate a gradual return to full participation in activities as appropriate, based on the recommendation of the student’s concussion trained health care provider and appropriate designed school personnel (e.g. 504 Coordinator). CONCUSSION POLICY MANAGEMENT TEAM The Superintendent will appoint a Concussion Policy Management Team including a school administrator to be responsible, under the administrative supervision of the Superintendent, to make recommendations related to the implementation of this policy. The Concussion Policy Management Team will include the school nurse and Athletic Administrator and may include one or more principals or assistant principals, the school physician and other school personnel or consultants as the Superintendent deems appropriate. The team shall oversee and implement this policy and related protocols for concussive head injuries based on the generally accepted protocols. This team will identify the school personnel who shall be trained in concussion signs and symptoms and the school activities covered by this policy. The policy and/or related protocols should be reviewed when generally accepted protocols change. Adopted: June 20, 2013
- JJE
NEPN/NSBA Code: JJE FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES It is the intent of the Board of Directors to provide, through the normal budget process, the facilities and resources necessary to support and achieve the educational mission and goals of our schools. The Board recognizes that appropriate fundraising activities can enrich the educational opportunities and resources available to students and enhance school facilities and equipment. Fundraising activities by students school-affiliated organizations and community groups in support of the schools must be approved in advance by the administration and comply with the following guidelines. The Superintendent has the authority to develop any administrative procedures necessary to implement this policy. FUNDRAISING GUIDELINES A. Guidelines Applicable to All Fundraising Activities: 1. Fundraising activities must not interfere with the educational program. 2. The use of instructional time to promote or participate in fundraising activities is discouraged and will be approved only in unusual circumstances. 3. No student shall be required to participate in fundraising activities as a condition of participating in a required school program. 4. All students participating in fundraising activities must be supervised by an adult. 5. No door-to-door solicitation of homes or businesses unless invited. Introductory letters or phone contacts are acceptable. 6. It is preferable that students be involved in an activity or provide a service rather than seek outright donations. 7. It is an expectation that parents and students will pledge/pay 50% of the cost of extended, overnight trips prior to being allowed to fundraise for the remainder. 8. Large formal fundraising campaigns will be limited to: Sports: Limited to the duration of each sport's season Non-sports:September-October and April-May for elementary schools (i.e., PTO catalog sales)November through March for middle and high school (PTSA, Project Graduation, etc.) 9. No money may be raised or collected, or binding commitments made to suppliers of any goods or services associated with a fundraising activity, until the activity has been approved. 10. MSAD #60 and or school name, logo or other insignia may not be used for fundraising purposes without specific approval. 11. Fundraising activities must comply with federal, state, and local laws, including those related to the school nutrition program and games of chance, and all applicable Board policies and school rules. 12. Revenue and expenditure reports for each activity must be submitted to the principal. All fundraising activities shall be subject to the district's accounting and auditing procedures. 13. Each principal shall maintain a fundraising calendar and organizers are encouraged to schedule activities as far in advance as possible. The principal has the discretion to deny approval of activities if activities overlap or otherwise place an undue burden on the school unit and/or the community. 14. In approving fundraising activities, the principal will consider the reasonableness (cost vs. benefit) and educational value of the activity the fundraising is meant to support. B. Guidelines Applicable to Activities Involving Alterations/Additions to School Unit Property 1. Any fundraising that will result in alterations or additions to district facilities or property must be approved by the Superintendent and the Board. 2. Any fundraising activity involving permanent donor recognition (such as installation of engraved bricks, tiles, signs, plaques, etc.) shall: a. Include only the donor name (first and last name, no nicknames) or the name of the person the donor is honoring; or b. In the case of a business, only the business name. Businesses selling services or products not legal for students to purchase or otherwise inappropriate to the public school setting will not be allowed. c. The school unit reserves the right to review and refuse any submission which, in the judgment of administrators, is not appropriate to the public school setting or which includes messages of a person, political, social or religious nature. 3. Any fundraising activity that involves the installation of art work or any other items created by individuals or groups is subject to any school guidelines for such work. 4. Any items installed or affixed to school property become the property of the school unit. The school unit has complete discretion to remove or replace any item that is damaged, destroyed, becomes outdated or when the area is renovated or remodeled. Approval Process 1. The person responsible for the proposed fundraising activity must complete a fundraising approval form and submit it to the building principal. 2. The principal will review the request to see if it meets the fundraising guidelines and any applicable school rules. 3. The principal will notify the organizer in writing within a reasonable time as to whether the activity is approved or denied. 4. The principal will provide the Superintendent with a copy of all fundraising requests and principal's decision. 5. If a principal denies a request, the organizer may ask the Superintendent to review the request. The Superintendent's decision is final. 6. As noted above, all fundraising requests that may involve alterations or additions to school unit property must be approved by the Superintendent and the Board. The Board's decision is final. Cross Reference: KFB - Facilities Use Adopted: October 19, 2006 Revised: April 10, 2008 January 16, 2020
- JJAB
NEPN/NSBA Code: JJAB STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS LIMITED OPEN/CLOSED FORUM The Equal Access Act, 20 U.S.C. §§ 4071 - 4073, requires that public secondary schools grant equal access to student groups who wish to meet for religious, political, or philosophical purposes, if the school allows other types of non-curriculum-related student groups to meet. This policy establishes the open forum to be available during the lunch hour or as determined by the school Principal to ensure equal access to student groups wishing to meet. The Principal may approve student groups use of facilities to conduct a meeting during the open forum provided that: A. The meeting will take place during the open forum. The open forum is defined as the lunch hour or non-instructional time as determined by the Principal. B. The meeting is voluntary and student initiated. The Principal must be assured that students are the ones promoting such activities and that they are participating of their own volition. Only students enrolled in the school may request the meetings. C. School authorities or district employees do not promote, lead or participate in such meetings. Principals may assign personnel to supervise these meetings. This action does not constitute sponsorship by the district of such meetings. D. The presence of school authorities or district employees or district personnel at any student religious meeting is non-participatory in nature. The presence of school authorities is for the purpose of observation only. E. The meeting does not in any way interfere with the conduct of regular instructional activities of the schools. Since the education of the students is the prime responsibility of the school, any other activities are secondary. The school may deny facilities to students on the basis that such activities or meetings interfere with the instructional program. F. Student meetings are not controlled, conducted or directed by person(s) or groups not affiliated with the schools. Such persons may attend student meetings but not on a regular basis. Visitors to the school must be approved by the Principal and clearance obtained prior to the meeting. G. The meeting is open to all students without regard to race, gender, religion or national origin. Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. §§ 4071 - 4073 5 MRSA § 4592 Adopted: June 12, 2019
- Minutes of January 21, 2021
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, January 21, 2021 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually at Noble High School on January 21, 2021 at 7:00 pm, with all members present virtually. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: Mr. Kevin Gray of North Berwick shared: Part of tonight’s meeting as I understand is going to be discussing the return to in-person athletics since the MPA has now pushed the decision to the individual schools. As a parent, coach, and community member I have seen firsthand the negative mental and physical impacts that are transpiring due to the lack of in-person opportunities. As members of the school board, you have agreed to heed the mission of our district which is I quote “We empower all students to develop enthusiasm for learning, foster confidence through successes and failures, provide service to others, and achieve their personal, social, and academic best, leading to fulfilling and engaged lives for all” By allowing athletics in person, we will be giving them a path that has been blocked for too long. They crave and plead for the opportunity to again develop some enthusiasm for learning that is not through zoom or google meets. Our kids are losing the opportunity to foster and grow true relationships that help them achieve their personal, social, and academic best. I have the utmost confidence that given the opportunity our Athletic Department, Athletic Training Staff, and Coaches will provide safe environments for our kids, staff, and community. I do not take lightly the decision and constant decisions that your board makes. No matter the answer your inbox will undoubtedly be peppered with unhappy community members. I ask that you go back to the Mission Statement and find what is right for our students. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Hagenbuch to accept the minutes of January 7, 2021 as amended. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The Superintendent then shared with the board two donations that are informational only, not required votes. One is from Andrew Earl of Earl Enterprises which was a donation of 162 yards of fabric to the drama program. The other was a donation of $40 from a local 6th grade student to the Backpack Program. He shared that he wanted to provide support to a positive local cause. PD update: The Superintendent shared with the board the professional development opportunities she and the Assistant Superintendent attended last week. They attended the 27th annual Winter Convocation from Maine School Superintendent Association. The focus was Equity in education and the lead speaker was Lawerence Alexander. We will be conducting an equity audit in the near future and will be working with a team of staff at Noble High School who has formed to address equity issues there and throughout our district. Next Wednesday, the administrative team will be meeting with attorney Isabel Eckman from Drummond Woodsome to review the changes to the Title IX laws and how it impacts schools. The Superintendent also gave a very brief overview of a memo from the Maine School Superintendents Association that noted that the governor had requested 45 million more in funding for education over the biennium. This results in a smaller reduction in our state aid than was earlier anticipated. We won't know final numbers until the first of February, but this was very good news. Ms. Van Campen, business manager, will provide more of an update at the next board meeting. Remote update: The Superintendent then shared with the board the impact of the change for some families to either hybrid from remote or from remote to hybrid based on the deadline of last week. There are 274 students in our remote learning academy grades K-5. There was a change of 12 students going from remote to hybrid and 6 students going from hybrid to remote. This leaves a reduction of numbers of students in remote by 6 for a total of 268 students. We believe this says a lot for the model we have in place. At the middle school, there was a change from hybrid to remote of 20 students and 6 students moved from remote to hybrid. Overall change was an additional 14 students moving to remote. Rather than adding those students to the fully remote team (which is already quite full), the middle school administrative team and the teachers were able to incorporate those students into remote with their current teachers. The increased technology provided to staff and students made this possible. Attendance update. The staff ranged from 92% to 97%. The student range was 87%-96%. Still strong numbers for attendance at all levels. Transportation: All set and able to accommodate any of the changes that have occurred with students returning to in person classes. Athletics: The Maine Principals Association very recently shared that they were recommending that athletics be able to return even during the Yellow status (which had up until this point meant that no athletics could take place). The Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent shared that they had met with the Noble HS Principal, Athletic Director and Assistant Athletic Director as well as the Athletic Trainer and Director of Nurses to discuss the possible options. The athletics department had developed a very clear protocol and the administrations proposed the following timeline for a return to in person sports and extracurricular activities. Week of January 25th… in person team meetings with athletes/participants and their coaches/advisors. Review protocols, discuss regulations and consequences if protocols were not followed, disseminate and collect paperwork, etc. Week of February 1st… Begin conditioning, skills, drills, provide opportunities for athletes to physically come back into a team setting with all protocols, distancing, etc. No contact. No sharing of equipment, etc. Week of February 8th… More extensive practices with potential for practice of offensive and defensive tactics. Potential for the movement to small team scrimmages. February Vacation… continuation of practices. It is imperative to note: Throughout this, we will be monitoring the situation and ALL of this is subject to change based on exposures etc. If one student on a team or club tests positive, it is likely that all team members and coaches will be considered close contacts. Seven of our 17 coaches are also teachers so this could impact academics as well. Board members shared their concerns about this potential extra exposure for students and community members. Other board members shared their belief that this is an important step for students to feel more connected. No one knows the right answer, but overall the board felt that it was important to follow a cautious approach and allow athletics and extracurricular activities to begin under this timeline. Other: Next meeting will be February 4th and we can be in person if folks would like to attend in person in the library. The meeting of February 18th will be during February vacation and will be remote. Ms. Mallett noted that feedback from students is that the new technology has made a huge difference. At the high school level it was noted in particular. Ms. Corliss asked about the student representation. We are still working on finding those students. We have a meeting with one young person next week. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 8:05 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- AD
NEPN/NSBA Code: AD EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY/MISSION As advocates for children, the Board recognizes that the thorough and efficient education of children is its primary statutory-based responsibility. To this end, the Board considers proper and adequate support of schools to be a civic responsibility shared by all citizens. The school unit will provide an educational environment designed to encourage each student to acquire the necessary skills and perspectives needed for a meaningful life and career. All schools will strive to encourage students to form desirable habits that are necessary for them to become responsible, informed citizens. In general, we aim to have students develop attitudes and practices necessary for satisfying, worthwhile lives. We believe that all children must be provided equal but not identical opportunities to allow them to achieve at levels commensurate with their abilities. We believe that all students must learn in an environment which allows them to develop positive attitudes toward themselves and genuine respect for others. A rigorous core curriculum designed to achieve specific learning outcomes will be provided. It will be planned with the goal of creating and maintaining standards which will furnish students with the skills necessary for success in a global society while giving them a broad educational foundation compatible with their interests, aptitudes and aims. The curriculum and graduation requirements will be regularly evaluated to ensure their continued appropriateness. In order to achieve our goals and to implement this philosophy, we believe that all schools must secure the involvement of the community, students, staff, parents and citizens. Educational responsibility must be shared with important community institutions. We strongly believe that our school system's success depends on good rapport and cooperation with our communities and its institutions. The Board recognizes the professional staff as the body that is legally charged with the responsibility of providing education to all children. In fulfilling this responsibility, the staff will seek to ensure the following. A. All children will master basic skills in the areas of language arts, mathematics, science, history, and technology. B. Instruction will be provided which is appropriate to each individual with respect to goals, methodology and evaluation. C. Students will be seen in their totality as physical, mental, social, and aesthetic beings, which requires a knowledge of child growth and development. D. Staff members, in order to effectively execute their responsibilities, will establish goals for themselves consistent with the philosophy of the Board and individual schools. Staff members will engage in a self-evaluation process for the purpose of self- improvement--the ultimate objective being an improved instructional program for all students. E. The Board recognizes that this highly technological society demands that students learn how to cope with change and learn to accept that "learning" is a continuous process. The Board fully accepts the responsibility of formulating policies and acquiring adequate funding to support the education process. The Board will always consider the welfare of students as the single most important factor in making decisions relative to educational policy. It will be the responsibility of the Board and administrators to promote sound educational practices and professional development. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA, §§ 1001 et seq.; 4511.3, A Adopted: October 19, 2000 Revised: January 8, 2015
- IMGB-R
MSBA/NEPN: IMGB-R ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY DOGS PROCEDURES The following requirements must be satisfied before an AAT dog will be allowed in school buildings or on school district property. Request: A visiting handler who wishes to bring an AAT dog on school district property shall submit a completed written request form (IMGB-E) to the Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee, for approval. Such approval may be rescinded at any time at the sole discretion of the Superintendent. Once the Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee approves the request, a plan for dog visits shall be developed with the Building Principal or the Principal's designee. Training and Registration All handlers shall submit proof of registration as an AAT dog handler with each individual AAT dog. Such registration shall be from an AAT dog registering organization as approved by the Superintendent. The registration shall remain current and in good standing at all times. Health and Vaccination All handlers shall submit proof from a licensed veterinarian that the AAT dog is in good health and has been immunized against diseases common to dogs. Such vaccinations shall be kept current and up-to-date at all times. Licensing All handlers shall submit proof of licensure from their local dog licensing authority. Insurance The visiting handler must submit a copy of an insurance policy that provides liability coverage for the work of the visiting handler and AAT dog while the two are on school district property. The visiting handler will submit the Certificate of Insurance in the amount of $1 million General Liability coverage with $2 million aggregate and naming MSAD 60 as an additional insured. Approved MSAD 60 AAT dogs are covered by District insurance. Once a handler has been approved by the Superintendent to bring an AAT dog on school district property, such handler shall adhere to the rules of his/her registering organization and the following rules of the school district. Identification The visiting AAT dog shall wear appropriate identification issued by the registering organization identifying them as an AAT dog. Health and Safety All handlers shall ensure that the AAT dog does not pose a health and safety risk to any student, employee, or other person at school and that the AAT dog is brought to the school district only when properly groomed, bathed, free of illness or injury and of the temperament appropriate for working with children and others in the schools. The Building will alert all staff, students and families of the expected presence of the AAT dog. Control The visiting handler shall ensure that the AAT dog wears a collar or harness and a leash no longer than four feet and shall maintain control of the AAT dog by holding the leash at all times that the AAT dog is on school district property, including during breaks, unless holding such leash would interfere with the AAT dog's safe, effective performance of its work or tasks; however, the handler shall maintain control of the AAT dog at all times and shall not tether the AAT dog to any individual or object. Supervision and Care of the AAT Dog The visiting handler shall be solely responsible for the supervision and humane care of the AAT dog, including feeding, exercising, and cleaning up after the AAT dog while the dog is in a school building or on school property, shall not leave the AAT dog unsupervised or alone on school property at any time. The school district is not responsible for providing any care, supervision or assistance to the AAT dog. Authorized Area(s) The visiting handler shall ensure that the AAT dog has access to only such areas of the school buildings or properties that have been authorized by school district administrators. Allergies and Aversions The handler shall remove the AAT dog to a separate area as designated by the school administrator in such instances where any student or school employee who suffers dog allergies or aversions is present in an office hallway or classroom. The handler will meet with the Building Principal and School Nurse to discuss any expected allergies and steps that will be taken to limit, if necessary, an AAT dog's access to certain building areas. Damages and Injuries The visiting handler shall assume full responsibility and liability for any damage to school property or injury to district staff, students or others in the school caused by the AAT dog. Exclusion or Removal from School District Property An AAT dog may be excluded from school district property if a school administrator determines that (1) the handler does not have control of the AAT dog; (2) the AAT dog is not housebroken: (3) the AAT dog presents a direct and immediate threat to others in the school; or (4) the AAT dog's presence otherwise interferes with the educational program. The handler shall immediately remove his/her AAT dog from school property when instructed to do so by a school administrator, Cross Reference: IMG Animals in Schools IMGB Use of Animal- Assisted Therapy Dogs IMGB-E Animal- Assisted Therapy Dogs Request Adopted: June 12, 2019
- IMGB-E
MSBA/NEPN: IMGB-E REQUEST ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY DOGS IN SCHOOLS NAME:______________________________BUILDING: _________________________ DOG'S NAME: _______________________ AGE: ____________WEIGHT: ________BREED: _________ VETERINARIAN RECORDS -SHOTS AND IMMUNIZATIONS TRAINING/CERTIFICATIONS RATIONALE/PURPOSE OF AAT DOG MONITORING THE AAT DOG When the District is requested to allow a visiting animal-assisted therapy dog (AAT dog) on school property, the school may use the following checklist to determine if the animal should be allowed to remain on school property. If any of the questions are answered in the negative, the District may deny the visiting AAT dog access to school property. Observation Yes No Animal is clean, well groomed, and does not have an offensive odor. Animal does not urinate or defecate in inappropriate locations. Animal does not solicit attention, visit or annoy any other student or employee. Animal does not vocalize unnecessarily (bark, growl, whine, etc). Animal shows no aggression or hostility. Animal does not solicit or take food or other items. Animal is in good health. Animal is certified and trained, Animal can obey basic commands (sit, lie, stay, etc.). APPROVED: DISAPPROVED: SUPERVISOR SIGNATURE: BUILDING PRINCIPAL SIGNATURE: SUPERINTENDENT SIGNATURE:
- IMGB
MSBA/NEPN: IMGB USE OF ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY DOGS IN SCHOOLS MSAD #60 has a long-standing practice of supporting Animal-Assisted Therapy AAT dogs (AAT dogs) overseen by district employees, specifically Guidance Counselors and Social Workers. Benefits from working or visiting with an AAT dog include reduced stress, improved physical and emotional well-being, lower blood pressure, decreased anxiety, improved self esteem and normalization of the environment, increasing the likelihood of successful academic achievement by the student. Examples of activities that students may engage in with an employee’s AAT dog include petting and/or hugging the dog, speaking to the dog, giving the dog simple commands that the dog is trained to respond to and reading to the dog. An AAT dog is a dog who has been individually trained, evaluated and registered with his/her handler to provide animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted interactions within a school or other facility. AAT dogs are not "emotional support animals" or "service animals." Animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted interactions are non-goal-driven interactions where the specific content of the visit is spontaneous and is meant to provide motivational, educational and/or recreational activities that enhance the quality of life. A handler is an individual school district staff member who owns an AAT dog and who has been individually trained, evaluated, and registered with his/her AAT dog to provide animal assisted- activities and animal- assisted interactions within a school or other facility. An AAT dog is the personal property of the handler and is not the property of the school district. The handler shall assume full responsibility for the AAT dog's care, behavior and suitability for interacting with students and others in the school while the AAT dog is on school district property. Cross Reference: IMG Animals in Schools IMGB-R Animal- Assisted Therapy Dogs and Procedures IMGB-E Animal- Assisted Therapy Dogs Request Adopted: June 12, 2019
- IMGA
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMGA SERVICE ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS The Board recognizes that service animals may be used to provide assistance to some persons with disabilities. This policy governs the presence of service animals in the schools, on school property, including school buses, and at school activities. DEFINITION As applied to schools, federal and Maine laws define a "service animal" as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intelle disability. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals for the purpose of this definition. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual's disability. Examples of such work or tasks include, but are not limited to, assisting an individual who is totally or partially blind with navigation and other tasks, alerting an individual who is deaf or hard of hearing to the presence of people or sounds, providing nonviolent protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, assisting an individual during a seizure, alerting an individual to the presence of allergens, retrieving items such as medicine or a telephone, providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to an individual with a mobility disability and helping a person with a psychiatric or neurological disability by preventing or interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. The crime deterrent effects of an animal's presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of this definition. USE OF SERVICE ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS Use of a service animal by a qualified student with a disability will be allowed in school when it is determined that the student's disability requires such use in order to have equal access to the instructional program, school services and/or school activities. Use of a service animal by a qualified employee with a disability will be allowed when such use is necessary to enable the employee to perform the essential functions of his/her job or to enjoy benefits of employment comparable to those of similarly situated non disabled employees. The parent/guardian of a student who believes the student needs to bring a service animal to school, or an employee who wishes to bring a service animal to school, must submit a written request to the building principal. The building principal, in consultation with the Section 504 Coordinator or Director of Special Services, as appropriate, and the Superintendent will determine whether or not to permit the service animal in school. Parents or animal handlers who will be present in school for the purpose of assisting a student with his/her service animal will be required to submit to a sex offender registry and criminal background check. In addition, parents and handlers must comply with all standards of conduct that apply to school employees and volunteers. The school unit may impose additional conditions on the presence of a service animal, depending upon the circumstances. The building principal may remove or exclude a service animal from the school or school property if the presence of the animal poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others or the student, employee or handler is unable to fully control the animal; or the animal fails to consistently perform the function(s)/service(s) for which it has been trained and brought to school. A parent or employee whose service animal has been removed or excluded may appeal the decision to the Superintendent. If dissatisfied with the Superintendent's decision, the parent or employee may appeal to the Board. SERVICE ANIMALS AT SCHOOL-SPONSORED EVENTS Individuals with disabilities may be accompanied by their service animals to events or activities open to the public that are held in schools or on school property. The use of a service animal may not be conditioned on the payment of a fee or security deposit, but the individual is liable for any damage done to the premises or facilities by such an animal. The building principal may revoke or exclude the service animal only if the animal poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others, the use of the animal would result in substantial physical damage to the property of others, or would substantially interfere with the reasonable enjoyment of the event or activity by others. Legal Reference: 42 USC § 12101 et seq. 36 CFR § 104, 302 5 MRSA §§ 4553, 4592 Me. Human Rights Commission Rule Chapter 7 Cross References: AC - Nondiscrimination, Equal Opportunity, and Affirmative Action IMG - Animals in Schools Adopted: June 12, 2019
- IMG
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMG ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS The Board recognizes that having animals in the classroom can offer valuable student learning experiences but is also concerned with the health and safety of students, staff and visitors and the humane treatment of animals when they are brought to school. For the purpose of this policy “animals” includes mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, insects, and fish. The presence of live animals in the classroom must be directly related to the objectives of the instructional program. Permission must be obtained from the building principal before any animal is brought into the school by a teacher, student or any other person. The following guidelines shall apply to the presence of animals in the MSAD #60 schools: A. The presence of an animal in the classroom must be directly related to the instructional program. Staff who wish to have animals in the classroom must submit a written request to the principal; the request should include the instructional purpose and activity, the type of animal, the length of time the animal is expected to be present, and a plan for the care of the animal. The principal, at his/her discretion, may approve or deny the request. B. Students or parents who wish to bring animals to school for educational purposes must consult with the teacher who, in turn, will request permission from the building principal. All other persons who wish to bring animals to school must obtain written permission, in advance, from the building principal. C. The Superintendent will be responsible for developing procedures to inform parents that animals may be visiting or residing in classrooms during the school year. Parents are expected to notify the school if their child has an allergy or other health condition that will be affected by the presence of animals in the classroom. The building principal and staff will respond appropriately when health considerations are brought to their attention. An animal will not be housed in a classroom if a student in that classroom has a documented allergy to the animal. D. Animals may not be transported in school vehicles. E. No domestic mammals/pets (including dogs, cats, ferrets, and primates) or livestock will be allowed in school unless current proof of rabies and/or other vaccination is provided. Smaller mammals such as mice, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, and rabbits do not need to be vaccinated against rabies. Bats, as they may be carriers of rabies, are not allowed in the schools. Parrots, parakeets and other psittacine birds (birds that may carry psittacosis, a severe infectious human respiratory disease) shall not be brought to school unless they have been tested and certified as psittacosis free. Red-eared turtles (also known as painted turtles) are carriers of salmonella and shall not be kept in the classroom without written documentation from the supplier that they are salmonella-free. F. No wild, exotic, aggressive or poisonous animals will be allowed in school unless under the control of an individual trained in the care and management of the animal and properly licensed by state or federal agencies as appropriate (e.g., zookeepers, veterinarians, biologists, Maine Fish and Wildlife personnel). Students will not be permitted to handle such animals. G. No animals will be allowed free range of the classroom or the school. All animals brought to school must be restrained by the owner/handler. The teacher is responsible for the proper supervision and control of students whenever there is an exhibit or activity involving animals in school. H. Animals kept in classrooms must be housed in suitable cages or containers and fed and otherwise cared for appropriately. Only the teacher or students designated or supervised by the teacher may be allowed to handle these animals. Animal waste must be removed on an as-needed basis and in a sanitary manner. Only staff members or adult volunteers will be allowed to clean cages or containers or remove animal waste. I. If a student is bitten/injured by an animal on school premises, the building principal, school nurse and parent/guardian must be notified as soon as possible. If a staff member or visitor is bitten/injured, the building principal must be notified. J. The building principal must notify appropriate public health authorities and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control of each incident. An accident/injury report must also be completed and forwarded to the Superintendent. If a stray or wild animal appears on school grounds, students shall not be allowed in the area until the animal has left the premises or is removed by the local animal control officer, game warden or other appropriate official. K. No animal may be used as part of a scientific experiment or for any other purpose in which the normal health of the animal is interfered with or which causes pain or distress. No person may practice vivisection or exhibit a vivisection animal in the schools. Dissection of dead animals shall be confined to the classroom and to the presence of students engaged in the study of dissection and shall not be for the purpose of exhibition. L. The Board recognizes that service animals may be used to assist persons with disabilities. This policy does not apply to the presence of service animals that have been or are being specifically trained for the purpose of assisting a person with a disability. Legal Reference: Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. $ 12101 et seq.) 7 MRSA § 3971 22 MRSA §§ 801-825 Cross Reference: EBBB - Accident Reports IMGA - Service Animals in the Schools JLCE - First Aid and Emergency Medical Care Adopted: June 12, 2019
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 2/3/21
February 3, 2021 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform the community of updated positive case information: An individual associated with Noble High School (grades 8-12) has tested positive for COVID-19. Due to timing, this case does not have impact on close contacts/contact tracing in the school setting. Knowlton School (Berwick grades 3 and 4) has not had any additional cases that administration or the school nurse are aware of since the last community notification Sunday evening. However, due to the timing of the positive cases, coupled with a previous positive case, Knowlton School is considered “outbreak status” per the Maine CDC guidelines. Whenever a district school meets the criteria of outbreak status it is our practice to notify the community of that status for full transparency. The school has been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized following all necessary protocols. Out of an abundance of caution for student and staff health and well being, and the continued fluctuation in staffing throughout the building, Knowlton School students and staff will participate in remote learning for Thursday and Friday. Again, we realize that the decision to keep Knowlton School students and staff participating remotely for two more days adds a layer of scheduling challenge for families but please be aware that the decision was not made lightly. We welcome in person learning on Monday, February 8, 2021 at the Knowlton School. Thank you for your understanding. Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and please do not send your child to school if he/she has been tested and you are awaiting results. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Due to the impending weather tonight and tomorrow, February 2, 2021 will be a Snow Day!
Due to the impending weather tonight and tomorrow, February 2, 2021 will be a Snow Day! No Remote or Hybrid Learning. Stay warm and safe!
- All After School Activities Cancelled- February 1, 2021
All After School Activities Cancelled- February 1, 2021
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 1/31/21-ELKS Closing
January 31, 2021 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform the community of updated positive case information: An individual associated with Noble High School has tested positive for COVID-19. Due to timing, this case does not have impact on close contacts/contact tracing in the school setting. There are two individuals who have tested positive at Knowlton School. Close contacts have been notified. Due to these two most recent cases, and a fluctuation in staffing throughout the building, it is necessary for Knowlton School students and staff to participate in remote learning for two to three days. We realize this notification is occurring on very short notice. We apologize for that but reached out to our community as soon as we received information. Further communication to Knowlton families will occur on Wednesday. We appreciate your understanding. Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and please do not send your child to school if he/she has been tested and you are awaiting results. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Snow Day Update 1.29.2021
January 29, 2021 Dear Noble Community; As far as we all can remember, children all across New England, and especially in Maine, have welcomed snow as an opportunity to enjoy all that winter has to offer. This school year has been different in so many ways, but we would like to honor the tradition and magic of a traditional Snow Day. Over the next weeks leading up to February vacation, if we need to have an inclement weather day (or two), the first day that school is cancelled due to weather conditions will be an old fashioned “snow day.” School will be completely closed: closed for students in person and closed for remote learning. The media communication from MSAD #60 will say “Snow Day” not a remote learning day. Take this small moment and enjoy the day. Sincerely, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Minutes of January 7, 2021
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, January 7, 2021 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually and in person at Noble High School on January 7, 2021 at 6:30 pm, with all members present virtually except Ms. Manley. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to go into executive session pursuant to 1 MRSA §405(6)(D) Labor Contract Negotiations. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 6:30 pm. Out at 7:03 pm. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: Ms. Jennifer England of North Berwick shared this: Will the high school be extending its remote learning schedule? York County positivity rates are frightening, the new COVIS-19 variant is in New England, and many of our district families have struggled with positive cases over the break. I am hoping the board makes the safest possible decisions for teachers, students, and families as we enter what scientists and doctors are describing as the darkest period of the virus. Thank you. Ms. Jennica Osborne of North Berwick shared this: I have concerns about our students returning to school next week in the hybrid model due to the recent holidays/vacation/uptick in cases/family visits. We were one of the families affected by the 12/15 close contact exposure at NMS and spent 10 days (through the holidays) in quarantine. I request that we delay the return to school and continue with the red model until at least 1/18 week. Thank you. Ms. Manley joined the meeting at 7:15 pm. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to accept the minutes of December 17, 2020 as amended. All members voted in favor except Ms. Hopper, Ms. Schaeffer and Mr. Doiron who abstained and the motion passed. Update for the student representatives to the board. We have students that we are in contact with and hopefully will be with us at the next board meeting. Ms. VanCampen, Business Manager, shared with the board the budget timeline for FY22. She reviewed the budget timeline. The Superintendent then shared with the board several donations for the food service and the backpack programs. Backpack Program Jacqueline and Sean Doughterty $500 Omni Services $2,000 Kim Talon and Family $1,253 cash donation and several boxes of food Community Lunch Program The Raymond and Elaclaire Gosselin Foundation $2,000 Harvest Goddess $2,000 Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Schaeffer to gratefully accept the very generous donations to our school programs. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Susan Macri, Special Education Director, shared with the board the instruction provided to our students in the remote world for our special education students. She shared the general overview of services and focused on the emphasis and importance of individualizing instruction based on specific needs. The board members asked some specific questions and Ms. Macri answered those. Ms. Amy Creighton, Director of Nursing for the district shared with the board an update on the recent cases throughout the past couple of weeks over our holiday break. The board discussed whether or not we would return to our hybrid model starting with January 11th. Board members expressed their concerns about returning and also about not returning. The overall sense is that as long as we are keeping on top of things and making decisions rapidly, then we can go forward with the plan to return on Monday, January 11th. Attendance update. The staff ranged from 98% to 99%. The student range was 92%-99%. Still strong numbers for attendance at all levels. Transportation: Ms. Brenda Cravens shared with the board that we have a driver who has tested positive for Covid 19 and unfortunately two other drivers were in close contact so they are unable to work at this time. However, she was able to navigate the situation and is able to assure that we will have transportation all set for Monday. We are also able to add in students within 24/48 hours particularly at the elementary level. Athletics: We are currently still in the yellow and therefore can’t have actual athletics. However the coaches will still be reaching out to students to maintain connections etc. The Superintendent shared with the board the addendum to the Support Staff Contract to add the bus monitors. Ms. Potter made the motion and Ms. Hagenbuch seconded it to approve the addendum to the support staff contract. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Other: Ms. Schaeffer shared with the board that she will not be running again at the end of her term in the spring. Ms. Potter also shared that she would be retiring from the board in the spring after 18 years. We will miss them both immensely and appreciate their years of service. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 8:21 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 1/24/21-Summary of cases
January 24, 2021 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform the community of updated positive case information: An individual associated with Eric L. Knowlton School has tested positive for COVID-19. Close contacts have been notified. An individual associated with Noble Middle School (grades 6,7) has tested positive for COVID-19. Close contacts have been notified. Out of an abundance of caution, one class (not a team), will be participating in remote learning on 1/25 and 1/26/21. There are a few other positive cases to report but due to the timing, these cases do not have impact on close contacts/contact tracing in the school setting: One individual at North Berwick Elementary School One individual at Eric L. Knowlton School One individual at Noble High School Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and please do not send your child to school if he/she has been tested and you are awaiting results. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our entire school community for open communication and efforts in safeguarding students from entering buildings when someone at home, or the student directly, is displaying symptoms. Keeping our school buildings safe and open is a community effort and we appreciate the continued vigilance. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Community Update- MSAD 60 Athletics 1.22.21
January 22, 2021 Dear Noble Families, Please let this serve as an update on Winter Sports. Much to our surprise there has been a very recent modification in the guidelines for athletics. The Noble Athletic Department has worked diligently to collect as much information as possible and integrate that information into the Noble High School COVID -19 Protocols. After careful consideration, here is the schedule for Noble High School Indoor Track, Cheering, Basketball, Hockey and Wrestling: January 27-29, 2021 Orientation by Sport and Cohort Week of February 1, 2021 Skills, Drills, and Conditioning February 8-19 2021 Skills, Drills, and Strategic Practicing per sport* *At this point in time there are no final plans for gameplay, which have the potential to disrupt our efforts to protect cohorts and limit cross-community exposure. MSAD #60 will consider the implications of resumption of activities after the Maine School Board Association and Maine School Management Agency issues additional guidance. The Noble High School Athletic Department will send out additional sport-specific information over the course of the next few days. Again, this was an unexpected development and we can’t stress enough the need for Noble Athletes to follow all the Health and Safety Guidelines provided by the Maine DOE, CDC, and the Athletic Department. Stay well, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Minutes of January 7, 2021
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, January 7, 2021 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually and in person at Noble High School on January 7, 2021 at 6:30 pm, with all members present virtually except Ms. Manley. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to go into executive session pursuant to 1 MRSA §405(6)(D) Labor Contract Negotiations. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 6:30 pm. Out at 7:03 pm. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: Ms. Jennifer England of North Berwick shared this: Will the high school be extending its remote learning schedule? York County positivity rates are frightening, the new COVIS-19 variant is in New England, and many of our district families have struggled with positive cases over the break. I am hoping the board makes the safest possible decisions for teachers, students, and families as we enter what scientists and doctors are describing as the darkest period of the virus. Thank you. Ms. Jennica Osborne of North Berwick shared this: I have concerns about our students returning to school next week in the hybrid model due to the recent holidays/vacation/uptick in cases/family visits. We were one of the families affected by the 12/15 close contact exposure at NMS and spent 10 days (through the holidays) in quarantine. I request that we delay the return to school and continue with the red model until at least 1/18 week. Thank you. Ms. Manley joined the meeting at 7:15 pm. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to accept the minutes of December 17, 2020 as amended. All members voted in favor except Ms. Hopper, Ms. Schaeffer and Mr. Doiron who abstained and the motion passed. Update for the student representatives to the board. We have students that we are in contact with and hopefully will be with us at the next board meeting. Ms. VanCampen, Business Manager, shared with the board the budget timeline for FY22. She reviewed the budget timeline. The Superintendent then shared with the board several donations for the food service and the backpack programs. Backpack Program Jacqueline and Sean Doughterty $500 Omni Services $2,000 Kim Talon and Family $1,253 cash donation and several boxes of food Community Lunch Program The Raymond and Elaclaire Gosselin Foundation $2,000 Harvest Goddess $2,000 Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Schaeffer to gratefully accept the very generous donations to our school programs. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Susan Macri, Special Education Director, shared with the board the instruction provided to our students in the remote world for our special education students. She shared the general overview of services and focused on the emphasis and importance of individualizing instruction based on specific needs. The board members asked some specific questions and Ms. Macri answered those. Ms. Amy Creighton, Director of Nursing for the district shared with the board an update on the recent cases throughout the past couple of weeks over our holiday break. The board discussed whether or not we would return to our hybrid model starting with January 11th. Board members expressed their concerns about returning and also about not returning. The overall sense is that as long as we are keeping on top of things and making decisions rapidly, then we can go forward with the plan to return on Monday, January 11th. Attendance update. The staff ranged from 98% to 99%. The student range was 92%-99%. Still strong numbers for attendance at all levels. Transportation: Ms. Brenda Cravens shared with the board that we have a driver who has tested positive for Covid 19 and unfortunately two other drivers were in close contact so they are unable to work at this time. However, she was able to navigate the situation and is able to assure that we will have transportation all set for Monday. We are also able to add in students within 24/48 hours particularly at the elementary level. Athletics: We are currently still in the yellow and therefore can’t have actual athletics. However the coaches will still be reaching out to students to maintain connections etc. The Superintendent shared with the board the addendum to the Support Staff Contract to add the bus monitors. Ms. Potter made the motion and Ms. Hagenbuch seconded it to approve the addendum to the support staff contract. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Other: Ms. Schaeffer shared with the board that she will not be running again at the end of her term in the spring. Ms. Potter also shared that she would be retiring from the board in the spring after 18 years. We will miss them both immensely and appreciate their years of service. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 8:21 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 1/18/21
Date 1/18/21 Dear Students, Families, and Staff, During these difficult times where we are seeing the impact of Covid-19 in our communities, we understand the worry and concerns that present themselves. We want to let you know that our staff and students continue to do a tremendous job following the health and safety guidelines. We also are working diligently to provide information to our community as quickly as possible. With that, we also need to provide the appropriate information that is given from the CDC in a rather formal way when we have a positive case. This letter is to inform you that there has been an individual associated with Hanson School who has a positive Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) test result. There is another individual associated with Noble High School who also has a positive Cornonavisrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) test result. Students and staff considered close contacts will be participating in school remotely until January 26, 2021. There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with these individuals and therefore may be exposed to the virus. We are informing you out of an abundance of caution. Please monitor yourself/your student for signs and symptoms. Call a health care provider if symptoms start. It is important that you call a health care facility before you show up in person. And please, stay home if you are sick. School representatives have contacted those directly who have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive. The CDC will also be contacting these families as well as any others who may be identified as close contacts as contact tracing begins. Close contacts will be asked to quarantine for 10 days from last exposure to the positive individual. A negative test result does not release an individual from quarantine. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. It can be more severe in adults 60 years and older and in those with underlying conditions. The virus mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and an uninfected person breathes in the virus. Signs and symptoms include: • fever or chills • new loss of taste or smell • cough • sore throat • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • congestion or runny nose • fatigue • nausea or vomiting • muscle or body aches • diarrhea • headache Please keep in mind that many things can cause respiratory illness, so students and staff should be up-to-date on influenza and routine vaccinations. Maine CDC recommends preventive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include proper handwashing with soap and warm water, which is especially important after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. For general COVID-19 questions, dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695). You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 or email info@211maine.org. Call a health care provider for questions about your symptoms. More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dhhs/coronavirus or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Any changes to the current situation will be relayed to our families as quickly as possible. Please understand that our goal is to keep all of our students and staff safe. As we see an increase of positive cases throughout the state, we would also like to take this opportunity to stress how important it is that students and staff do not come to school as they await test results. We want to remain “open for school” for our students and staff as long as we can in the safest manner possible. Thank you for your assistance! Sincerely, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Agenda January 21, 2021
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting Live Stream Link January 21, 2021 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Call to Order Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input should be added here. Your statement will be read on air to the Board. Minutes of January 7, 2021 Professional Development Update Donation 162 Yards of Fabric to NHS Theater Program- D. Andrew Earle Updates Educational Programming Remote and Hybrid Shifts to date Transportation Attendance 7. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 8. Other 9. Adjournment
- Minutes of December 17, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING December 17, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually and in person at Noble High School on December 17, 2020 at 7:00 pm, with all members present virtually except Mr. Doiron, Ms. Hopper and Ms. Schaeffer. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: None at this time. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to accept the minutes of December10, 2020 as amended. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The board then reviewed the district monthly financial report. No questions were asked and the board appreciated the update. Ms. Amy Creighton, Director of Nursing for the district shared with the board an update on the recent cases throughout the past week. We had several scenarios that needed to be addressed. The fact that we had moved to remote learning already, the impact has been less than what would have occurred had we all been in person. She also reiterated that the rules are shifting in terms of hard and fast facts and what should happen from the CDC point of view. She also shared with the board that we will continue to provide information to families of any positive cases of COVID-19 throughout the December Break. This is important because of our commitment to notify the school community each time we are made aware of a positive case and it is also necessary in order to be sure that close contacts of a positive case have been notified. Our notification format will be a bit different over break as we will likely send out only one letter. That letter will list a specific district location, a teacher/team name, or bus number and include specific information regarding quarantining if identified as a close contact. This will ensure we do not inadvertently miss notifying a close contact. The initial contact method (Messenger) will remain the same. Attendance update. The staff ranged from 95% to 98%. The student range was 86%-98%. Still strong numbers for attendance at all levels. School nutrition update: The food bags are being prepared and will be sent out early next week for distribution to all families who signed up. Transportation: With remote learning, obvious lesser needs for transportation. However, Sanford Regional Technical Center is in session and we will be sending our students via school transportation Friday, Monday and Tuesday. Athletics: We are currently still in the yellow and therefore can’t have actual athletics. However the coaches will still be reaching out to students to maintain connections etc. The board asked questions about programs that provide supports for specialized instruction. The board is interested in having some mini presentations from groups in the future. The Superintendent shared with the board the name of Erin Frazier as a candidate for a special education position at the Knowlton School. Ms. Neubert made the motion and Ms. Potter seconded the approval of Ms. Erin Frazier as special education teacher at the Knowlton school. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Mallett shared her thanks to the administration and all the staff for the hard work and making it to Christmas break! Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 7:38 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- Letter to School Communities COVID-19 1.14.21
January 14, 2021 Dear Students, Families, and Staff, During these difficult times where we are seeing the impact of Covid-19 in our communities, we understand the worry and concerns that present themselves. We want to let you know that our staff and students continue to do a tremendous job following the health and safety guidelines. We also are working diligently to provide information to our community as quickly as possible. With that, we also need to provide the appropriate information that is given from the CDC in a rather formal way when we have a positive case. This letter is to inform you that there has been an individual associated with North Berwick Elementary School who has a positive Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) test result. Students and staff identified as close contacts will be participating in school remotely until January 22, 2021. There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with this individual and therefore may be exposed to the virus. We are informing you out of an abundance of caution. Please monitor yourself/your student for signs and symptoms. Call a health care provider if symptoms start. It is important that you call a healthcare facility before you show up in person. And please, stay home if you are sick. School representatives have contacted those directly who have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive. The CDC will also be contacting these families as well as any others who may be identified as close contacts as contact tracing begins. Close contacts will be asked to quarantine for 10 days from last exposure to the positive individual. A negative test result does not release an individual from quarantine. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. It can be more severe in adults 60 years and older and in those with underlying conditions. The virus mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and an uninfected person breathes in the virus. Signs and symptoms include: • fever or chills • new loss of taste or smell • cough • sore throat • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • congestion or runny nose • fatigue • nausea or vomiting • muscle or body aches • diarrhea • headache Please keep in mind that many things can cause respiratory illness, so students and staff should be up-to-date on influenza and routine vaccinations. Maine CDC recommends preventive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include proper handwashing with soap and warm water, which is especially important after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. For general COVID-19 questions, dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695). You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 or email info@211maine.org. Call a health care provider for questions about your symptoms. More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dhhs/coronavirus or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Any changes to the current situation will be relayed to our families as quickly as possible. Please understand that our goal is to keep all of our students and staff safe. As we see an increase of positive cases throughout the state, we would also like to take this opportunity to stress how important it is that students and staff do not come to school as they await test results. We want to remain “open for school” for our students and staff as long as we can in the safest manner possible. Thank you for your assistance! Sincerely, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Community Communication January 10, 2021
January 10, 2021 Dear Noble Community; Welcome 2021! The purpose of this communication is to share some updates and reminders as we head into our hybrid learning model tomorrow (Monday, January 11, 2021). Thank you for continuing the strong communication with school-based nurses and administrators regarding general illness and COVID-19 diagnosis. Our district needs the continued commitment from all families and staff around symptom screening and the following of the Health and Safety Guidelines to remain open in the hybrid learning model. Reports from the Maine CDC at the state level show that schools remain safe places for students and staff. MSAD #60 wants to continue with that trend heading into the next several weeks, therefore, we ask for our entire school community to follow guidelines below: Quarantine for 10 days upon returning to Maine from travel to other states. New Hampshire and Vermont are the only two current states where quarantining is not required. Please see this link for more information: COVID-19: Travel | Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | Airborne Disease Surveillance Epidemiology Program | MeCDC Please do not send your child to school if anyone in the household (including your child) is awaiting results for COVID-19 or tested positive for COVID-19. Please keep your child home from school to monitor symptoms if your family or child has been identified as a close contact to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. Please monitor your child for illnesses each and every day and do not send your child to school if he/she has any symptoms. Here is a reminder on symptom screening: https://www.maine.gov/doe/sites/maine.gov.doe/files/inline-files/Pre-Screening%20Tool_11.pdf We completely understand how busy family life is on a daily basis and how challenging it is to make last minute shifts in schedules if a child shows any symptoms of illness. That said, it is imperative to refrain from sending a child to school with symptoms. There are well over two thousand students and staff in district buildings each week. We all need to work together to make sure we are doing our part to mitigate exposure for everyone. There were a number of positive cases reported to school-based nurses and administration during the December break. Due to the timing of the cases it was not necessary for the district to send out communication about close contacts or quarantining. The plan to have four days of remote learning for all kindergarten through grade twelve students leading into break went a long way for things to settle down and we want to keep numbers trending down rather than up. Your partnership is crucial in this process. NOBLE is a fantastic community. We can do this! Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais
- Letter to School Communities COVID-19 1.6.2021
January 6, 2021 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform you that we have an individual associated with the MSAD #60 Transportation Department who has tested positive for COVID-19. Students and staff considered “potential” close contacts of this individual have been notified and per the guidance of the CDC, and out of an abundance of caution those close contacts will be participating in remote learning until January 18, 2021. Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. Please do not send your child to school if he/she is ill, awaiting test results, or if someone in the household has tested positive for COVID-19. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse. Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this very fluid situation. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais
- Agenda January 7, 2021
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting Live Stream Link January 7, 2021 Executive Session 6:30 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Call to Order Executive Session 1 MRSA §405(6)(D) Labor Contract Negotiations- Administration Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input should be added here. Your statement will be read on air to the Board. Minutes of December 17, 2020 Appointing Student Representative to Board Budget Timeline Discussion Backpack Donation $500 Jacqueline & Sean Dougherty 7. Updates Educational Programming Special Education Services School Nutrition Transportation Athletics Attendance 8. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 9. Other 10. Adjournment
- SRRF Bid Opening Today 2pm
The SRRF Bid Opening will begin at 2pm on December 22, 2020. Link Information can be found below. Jennifer Flewelling is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: SRRF Time: Dec 22, 2020 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/95635831732?pwd=WnNQdWtuTUJWUE5VQlkvenBHTUsyQT09 Meeting ID: 956 3583 1732 Passcode: AVW7z5
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 12/17/20
December 21, 2020 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform you of latest COVID-19 case information for MSAD #60. An individual associated with Noble High School has a “presumed positive case”, an individual associated with North Berwick Elementary School has a CDC confirmed case, and an individual associated with Noble Middle School (Grade 7 White Team) has a CDC confirmed case. In two of these instances the individuals were not in school during what would be considered the infectious period therefore the tracing of close contacts did not need to occur. It was necessary to identify close contacts for the third case. Students and staff considered “potential” close contacts of this individual have been notified and per the guidance of the CDC. Please note that starting on December 23, 2020 written communication regarding cases will look a bit different. Currently, the district sends two written letters out once there is a confirmed positive case. One letter is sent to just those students/staff identified as close contacts and the other letter is sent out to the entire district community. Should it be necessary for us to contact the community regarding a positive case during break due to the fact that close contacts need to be notified, one letter will be sent out to the school district community. That letter will include a bit more specificity and may list a teacher/team by name, a bus number, or any other pertinent information. The goal for doing this is to ensure that close contacts are all notified. Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. We ask for continued assistance as we head into December Break. Please email District Head Nurse, Amy Creighton, (amy.creighton@msad60.org) if you or your child receives a positive COVID test result. Please include your child’s first and last name, grade level, and school in the email. Thank you in advance for your efforts to assist the district as we navigate cases during the next few weeks. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais
- Noble Newsletter December 2020
NOBLE_News_December_2020_newsletter.pdf
- SRRF Bid Opening
The SRRF Bid Opening will begin at 2pm on December 22, 2020. Link Information can be found below. Jennifer Flewelling is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: SRRF Time: Dec 22, 2020 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/95635831732?pwd=WnNQdWtuTUJWUE5VQlkvenBHTUsyQT09 Meeting ID: 956 3583 1732 Passcode: AVW7z5
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 12/17/20
December 17, 2020 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform you that we have an individual associated with Hussey School and another individual associated with Noble High School who have tested positive for COVID-19. The CDC has confirmed the cases. These two individuals were not in school during the infectious period therefore, it was not necessary for the school district to contact trace. Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse. Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this very fluid situation. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- School Communities COVID 19 12/16/2020
December 16, 2020 Dear Staff, Students, and Families, This letter is to inform you that there has been an individual associated with the North Berwick Elementary School who has tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with this individual and therefore may be exposed to the virus. We are informing you out of an abundance of caution. Please monitor yourself/your student for signs and symptoms. Call a health care provider if symptoms start. It is important that you call a health care facility before you show up in person. And please, stay home if you are sick. School representatives have notified those directly who have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive. The CDC will also be contacting these families as well as any others who may be identified as close contacts as contact tracing begins. Close contacts will be asked to quarantine for 10 days from last exposure to the positive individual. A negative test result does not release an individual from quarantine. Sincerely, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 12.15.2020
December 15, 2020 Dear Staff, Students, and Families, This letter is to share that there has been an individual associated with the Noble High School grade 8 (Eagles Team) who has a potential positive Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) case. There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with this individual and therefore may be exposed to the virus. We are informing you out of an abundance of caution. Please monitor yourself/your student for signs and symptoms. Call a health care provider if symptoms start. It is important that you call a health care facility before you show up in person. And please, stay home if you are sick. School representatives have notified those directly who have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive. The CDC will also be contacting these families as well as any others who may be identified as close contacts as contact tracing begins. Close contacts will be asked to quarantine for 10 days from last exposure to the positive individual. A negative test result does not release an individual from quarantine. To shift gears a bit, Maine is expected to get snowfall from Wednesday night until Thursday. Due to the fact that Thursday is already a remote day for students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade, we will not call a “snow day” due to the weather. You can count on Thursday being remote. The exception to this is high school students who participate in Sanford or Somersworth programs. Students/families participating in either program will be contacted should weather impact the schedule. Sincerely, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 12/14/2020
December 14, 2020 Dear Staff, Students, and Families, During these difficult times where we are seeing the impact of Covid-19 in our communities, we understand the worry and concerns that present themselves. We want to let you know that our staff and students continue to do a tremendous job following the health and safety guidelines. We also are working diligently to provide information to our community as quickly as possible. With that, we also need to provide the appropriate information that is given from the CDC in a rather formal way when we have a positive case. This letter is to share that there has been an individual associated with the Noble Middle School (grades 6,7) who has a potential positive Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) case. Due to the potential impact to staff, the entire Maroon Six Team will need to participate in school remotely until January 11, 2020. There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with this individual and therefore may be exposed to the virus. We are informing you out of an abundance of caution. Please monitor yourself/your student for signs and symptoms. Call a health care provider if symptoms start. It is important that you call a health care facility before you show up in person. And please, stay home if you are sick. School representatives have contacted those directly who have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive. The CDC will also be contacting these families as well as any others who may be identified as close contacts as contact tracing begins. Close contacts will be asked to quarantine for 10 days from last exposure to the positive individual. A negative test result does not release an individual from quarantine. We have also been notified of a positive COVID-19 case at Noble High School, however; this individual was not in school during their infectious period, so there were not close contacts involved at school. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. It can be more severe in adults 60 years and older and in those with underlying conditions. The virus mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and an uninfected person breathes in the virus. Signs and symptoms include: • fever or chills • new loss of taste or smell • cough • sore throat • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • congestion or runny nose • fatigue • nausea or vomiting • muscle or body aches • diarrhea • headache Please keep in mind that many things can cause respiratory illness, so students and staff should be up-to-date on influenza and routine vaccinations. Maine CDC recommends preventive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include proper handwashing with soap and warm water, which is especially important after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. For general COVID-19 questions, dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695). You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 or email info@211maine.org. Call a health care provider for questions about your symptoms. More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dhhs/coronavirus or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Any changes to the current situation will be relayed to our families as quickly as possible. Please understand that our goal is to keep all of our students and staff safe. Sincerely, Audra Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 12/13/2020
December 13, 2020 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform you that we have an individual associated with the Mary Hurd Academy who has tested positive for COVID-19. Students and staff considered “potential” close contacts of this individual have been notified and per the guidance of the CDC, and out of an abundance of caution, the students and teachers will be participating in remote learning until we return to the in-person hybrid schedule on January 11, 2021. Please continue to monitor your child for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. If your child is awaiting test results please keep them home from school. If you have any questions, please contact your school’s nurse. Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this very fluid situation. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Agenda for December 17, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting Live Stream Link December 17, 2020 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Call to Order Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input should be added here. Your statement will be read on air to the Board. Minutes of December 10, 2020 Nov 2020 Board Financial Summary Updates Educational Programming School Nutrition Transportation Athletics Attendance 6. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 7. Other 8. Adjournment
- Community Letter- Schedule Update 12.11.2020
December 11, 2020 Dear Noble Community; This is sent to inform you of several additional changes to our school calendar. As you know, our district participated in remote learning for grades K-12 in the four days leading up to the November Thanksgiving break. At that time, those four days of remote learning provided students and staff with a safe instructional situation and also provided the necessary time needed in order for District Representatives to notify families about “presumed positive” cases and get feedback from families regarding any student/family symptoms. It also mitigated the possibility of individuals being in the school setting during an “infectious period”. That model proved to allow us the lead time needed to deal with communication revolving around a myriad of cases and in large part assisted in allowing our school buildings to be able to reopen following the Thanksgiving break. With that in mind, and being aware of current conditions, we will move to full remote learning for the four days leading up to the scheduled December break (December 17, 18, 21, and 22, 2020). Those additional remote learning days will not only provide students and staff a longer break from in-person instructional contact but it will also provide the necessary time period for the District to be able to inform families, when necessary, of potential positive COVID direct contact, prior to the scheduled Holiday Beak in order for proper steps to be taken. If your student attends SRTC you will be receiving communication regarding that schedule. That said, as this remains an extremely fluid, day-by-day, situation, should we have an influx of cases in particular buildings or across the entire district between now and December 17, 2020 we may still need to move to remote learning prior to December 17th. We will keep you informed should that need to occur! Additionally, after significant review of the Health and Safety Guidelines and watching the upward trend of recent positive cases after Thanksgiving, students will begin school after the Holidays in a fully remote model on January 4, 2021. In-person hybrid instructional model will resume on January 11, 2021. At that time, your child will follow his/her established hybrid schedule. We recognize that this continues to be a very challenging time for everyone in the community and the schools. Our decisions try to take everything into consideration and are not made lightly as we strive to balance the health and safety of our students and staff with the need to be consistent in our instructional programming and keep schools open when Health and Safety Guidelines dictate. We also recognize the immense cooperation from our community. Many Thanksgiving gatherings and plans leading up to December break were changed or modified by community members and staff to help alleviate potential positive cases in the school settings across the district. This proved incredibly helpful and significant to get us where we are right now. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher(s), school counselor, nurse, or building administration if you need assistance with anything from academics to health and wellness and anything in between. We will continue to provide updates and health and safety reminders as we head into the latter part of December. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Minutes of December 3, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING December 3 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually and in person at Noble High School on December 3, 2020 at 7:00 pm, with all members present both live and virtually. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: Ms. Laura Cashell, North Berwick shared: Could you please share ways community members can make donations to the Backpack Program? Is there a link through My School Bucks or an online way to make donations? I'm asking in case community members would like to donate rather than give a gift during the holiday season for example. Thank you! Ms. Potter made the motion to accept the minutes of Nov. 5 and Nov 17, 2020 as amended. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Tiffany Roberts, state legislator joined the board for a conversation about what our community needs are and what she could do to support us. We discussed the need for increased support in regards to truancy as well as financial needs. Donations for the backpack program were shared. Apex Net out of Berwick donated $1000 and the West Lebanon Community Ladies Circle donated $612. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to accept the two donations towards our back pack program. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Amy Creighton, Director of Nursing, gave an overview of the process that is undertaken with each and every one of the cases that come forward. The board discussed the many variations of how to handle things going forward. Attendance update...Lowest attendance at NMS this week, 87-90. All other schools have been pretty consistent except the dip at the Middle School. Remote and the absences…. Extrapolating the data regarding attendance. In each grade level class there are one to two students who are not attending consistently. This is similar to what is in person. School Nutrition… all of the snow day packs have been distributed to families. Transportation Update.. Two drivers are coming back and we are still looking for more drivers and bus monitors. Pick ups 15-20 minutes for parent pick ups at the elementary schools. “PIK MY KID’ app provides minute by minute data for parents. Athletics… MPA is still hammering out the Winter athletics… VERY tentative date of December 7th as a start date. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms Neubert to accept the retirement letter of Ms. Susan Macri, special education director. All members voted in favor with congratulations and the motion passed. Lebanon 5th grade teachers, Mr. Loranger, Ms. Ricard, Ms. Whitney and Ms. Crosman sent a lovely letter to the fifth grade parents and spread a lot of joy to the families. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Mr. Doiron to go into executive session for contract negotiations. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 8:56 pm. Out at 9:36pm Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 9:37 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- Minutes of November 19, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING November 19, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually and in person at Noble High School on November 19, 2020 at 7:00 pm, with all members present virtually. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: Mr. Jeremiah Mulligan shared the following: I have three children in the district and one that graduated last year. Today I am writing in regards to my Junior, Dylan. He is taking Building Trades at Sanford this year. He loves the class, and it has been great for him to get out of the house and attend some in-person learning there everyday at Sanford. You should also know that I am the Building Trades teacher at Dover High School, so I am well aware that this class cannot be taught properly virtually, at best online learning for this class is substandard. Last night my wife and I got an email stating that since Noble is pivoting to remote learning, Noble would no longer allow it’s students to attend SRTC classes in person. I don’t understand the reasoning for this. Noble is now fully remote so my son will no longer be entering Noble High School, or come into contact with any other Noble students. He would be driving from my house to Sanford High School and back to my house. With all of that being said my question is why is he not allowed to attend SRTC? I would also strongly urge the administration to reconsider this decision and allow our Noble students to attend their SRTC classes in person. I believe this is not a decision that should be made by the district, but each family should be able to decide whether or not they feel comfortable sending their child to Sanford for these classes since these classes are still being taught in-person. We just want what is best for our child, and we know that he will be getting a better education if he physically attends this class. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Schaeffer to table the minutes of November 5,2020. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. SRTC update...a few local districts are meeting remotely due to Covid numbers. Ms Beauvais was meeting as one of the sending Districts to discuss the parameters as to when Districts would send students and when they would keep students remote. Transportation Update.. The District currently does not have a waiting list. Things are fairly status quo to this point. Pick ups 15-20 minutes for parent pick ups at the elementary schools. “PIK MY KID’ app provides minute by minute data for parents. Check in on Athletics… MPA is still hammering out the Winter athletics… VERY tentative date of December 7th as a start date... Ms Beauvais explained the reasoning as to why we made the determination to go remote until November 30th. Additionally she shared the ELKS investigation of what could potentially be an outbreak. The increase in absences for both staff and students. We felt it was prudent to move to all remote until November 30th. This morning we met with representatives from the CDC, DOE and DHHS and they shared their feelings that we have handled things very well. The board talked about the situation, the approach and how to increase communication going forward. Ms Mallett noted that she was contacted by Tiffany Roberts. State legislator is looking for some information and conversation with the board and the administration. All agreed that a Zoom call will be the best platform to meet. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to go into executive session for contract negotiations. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 7:55 pm Out at 8:40 pm. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to go into executive session for contract negotiations. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 8:41 pm. Out at 8:47 pm Ms. Corliss made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Hagenbuch to go into executive session for All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 8:48 pm. Out at 8:55pm Ms. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 8:55 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- Minutes of November 5, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING November 5, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually and in person at Noble High School on November 5, 2020 at 7:00 pm, with all members present. Virtually present: Ms. Manley, Ms. Schaeffer, Ms. Corliss and Ms. Hagenbuch. Ms. Neubert shared the public input statement. Public Input: None at this time Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Mr. Doiron to accept the minutes of October 15, 2020 as amended. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The Assistant Superintendent introduced Lucas Monroe, a senior at Noble High School. This summer Lucas created, collaborated with others, collected and delivered masks to all of the schools in various sizes to accommodate the need for our students and staff. Thank you Lucas for your dedication and support! The board then reviewed a Memorandum of Understanding with the board of directors regarding Covid-19 specific situations. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to approve the MOU. All members voted in favor, except Ms. Hopper, who abstained. The motion passed. The Superintendent discussed with the board the notion of moving to remote learning for inclement weather rather than calling full snow days. We surveyed our staff to determine that a majority believe that the District should limit the number of snowdays. MSAD #60 will have 2 snow days and there are any other inclimate days, those days will be District remote days. The Superintendent then shared an educational update: Ms Beauvais noted that the Star Assessments have been completed for all students grades 2-10 both remote and hybrid. We will be analyzing the data as we go. We are preparing our district newsletter and it will focus on Literacy K-12. We are also providing staff with the Distance Learning Playbook and the administrative team will also work through the Administrators District Learning Playbook as well. This will hopefully provide more support to our staff as we navigate these strange times. The playbooks align well with The Skillful Teacher which a large portion of our staff and admin team have taken the course. Nutrition... In October we provided 2300 meals for breakfast per week and 4300 per week for lunch. About 310 students are receiving remote meals weekly. (Those meals vary depending on how many days they are in school). Our free and reduced lunch percentages are 25% (down from 27% last year). Transportation… Our bus referrals are lower this year than in the past. There are currently no students on the waitlist. New students are generally able to be placed on a bus within 24-48 hours. Elementary runs are more filled than the middle and high school runs. Athletics… approximately 220 students are participating in fall sports. Teams are playing against very locally placed teams. All teams will be able to play under the lights. Football is currently 1-0, girls soccer is 3-0, field hockey tied their first game and is playing tonight. Maddox Johnson has qualified for the state meet. Golf Team had some exhibitions but their season had come to a close earlier than it had been scheduled to. Attendance: In this current week, our lowest number of attendance across the district was 91%, highest was 99%. The average attendance is 98%. For staff the attendance is still very strong. Enrollment: Our elementary enrollment is 1265 Middle School… 479 High school 1279. Ms. Mallett shared with the board her experience at the Maine School Board conference on Friday, October 30th. The keynote speaker was excellent. She shared overviews of her sessions and spent some time on the MSBA resolutions that were agreed to. Ms. Hagenbuch shared some of the overviews of her sessions as well. She spent quite a bit of time in a special education session. Resignations: The Superintendent shared the resignation of Ms. Melissa Ortiz, Occupational Therapist. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to accept the resignation of Ms. Ortiz. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Superintendent’s Report: We have another current situation with one classroom at the Hussey School under quarantine. This occurred over the weekend primarily on Sunday Nov. 1st and impacts a classroom. We were able to isolate the students who are impacted and minimize the whole school impact. We have had 8 cases in total, 2 that didn’t impact students at all. The organization between the administration, the nursing staff, the teachers has been incredible. It has made our positions much easier to navigate these very difficult situations. We have our process down with the standard operating procedures. Other Business The Superintendent discussed with the board the plan going forward between Thanksgiving and the New Year and what the board would like to think about regarding increased travel etc. for our community members. The board members suggested that we stick to the current plan to remain in our hybrid model and adjust if necessary based on what is occurring in the community. The board discussed this and agreed that we should stick to the plan at this point and go forward with continuing in our hybrid program. If we do indeed go out, it will be for an extended period of time. Ms. Mallett shared that the information that was shared at the workshop was very well presented and very helpful and informative. Thank you to the high school administrators for doing it in such a thorough way. The plan sounds great and is very much appreciated. She has also heard from other community members that it was also very helpful. Noble High School is implementing changes to the hybrid plan. Mr. Doiron reiterated the information and asked about a timeline. The Superintendent noted that the leadership team had met this week and the full staff meeting will be on Monday and the plan will be shared with staff. Parents will be informed next. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to go into executive session for a personnel matter pursuant to 1 MRSA 405 (6)A. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 8:39 pm. Out at 9:04 Ms. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 9:05 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Audra Beauvais
- Letter to School Communities Covid 19 12.10.2020
December 10, 2020 Dear Noble Community: Please be aware that each and every time we receive notification of a positive case within the school district we remain steadfast in our commitment to notify all community members in a timely manner. We will continue that practice moving ahead. With that in mind, we would like to inform you that due to the close proximity of cases at each school: Knowlton School, Noble High School, and Noble Middle School (No. Berwick gr. 4, District grade 5); the CDC has opened an “outbreak investigation” for these three schools. Due to the timing of Thanksgiving Break some of these positive individuals are included in our “count” but were not physically present while infectious. Today we met virtually with representatives from the Maine CDC and the Department of Education as a routine part of the procedure outlined by the state when a school has been identified as having an outbreak. We will continue to follow the health and safety procedures which are currently in place in the district as we monitor the influx of cases within our community. Additionally, today, we have been notified of four additional cases associated with our district who have tested positive for COVID-19. One individual has not been in any school or district building, one at the Vivian E. Hussey School, one at the Noble Middle School (No. Berwick gr. 4, District grade 5), and one at Noble High School. The CDC has developed Standard Operating Procedure criteria for case/outbreak investigations and we are working with the state team as they move through their process. The state team has been impressed with our procedures and protocols with each case to date and complimented us on our efficiency and transparency. Of note, during Dr. Shah’s daily update he will mention the investigation naming Knowlton School, Noble High School, and Noble Middle School (No. Berwick gr. 4, District grade 5) specifically either this afternoon or Friday. Again, this is a routine part of the investigation process yet we wanted to bring this to your attention. School districts across York County are grappling with the same challenges we face each and every day. We will continue to remain vigilant throughout this process. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools
- Letter to School Communities COVID 19 12.8.2020
December 8, 2020 Dear MSAD #60 Community; This is being sent to inform the community of an updated positive case. An individual associated with the Noble Middle School building (No. Berwick Grade 4 and District Grade 5) has tested positive for COVID-19. Per the guidance of the CDC, and out of an abundance of caution, the students and teachers in the classroom will be participating in remote learning until December 17, 2020. Students and staff considered “potential” close contacts of these individuals have been notified. Here is additional information from the Maine CDC and the school district as we move ahead: On Friday, December 4th, Maine CDC changed their quarantine period for individuals known to be close contacts to positive cases of COVID-19 to 10 days. Individuals identified as close contacts prior to 12/4/20 at 3:30pm will be required to complete a 14 day quarantine period, and those identified after 3:30 on 12/4/20 will follow the new policy of 10 days. Maine CDC continues to recommend a COVID-19 test between days 5 and 7 for those who have been exposed, though a negative test will not change the duration of the 10 day quarantine. Maine has also applied the 10 day quarantine to the state's travel mandate. Traveling to a non-exempt state will require a 10 day quarantine or a negative COVID-19 test upon returning to Maine. Maine CDC Director, Dr. Shah’s, daily update on Monday, December 7, 2020, indicated that processing testing results is taking longer than in previous months. This is due to the increase in testing. Please do not send your child to school if you are awaiting results for your child or anyone in the household. Please do not send your child to school should anyone in the household have symptoms. With the cases increasing daily we ask for everyone’s continued assistance. If your child, or someone in the household is awaiting test results, it is of great importance that the information is communicated to the school nurse directly rather than a teacher or staff member. Below you will find the school contacts for easy reference: Noble High School (Grades 6-12) 676-2175, Amy Creighton Noble Middle School (No. Berwick Grade 4, District Grade 5) 698-1320, Katherine Grant North Berwick Elementary School (Kindergarten-Grade 3) 676-9811, Jen Hamel Lebanon and Hanson Schools (Kindergarten-Grade 4) 457-1299, Taryn Frizzell Knowlton School (Grades 3, 4) 698-1188, Samantha Hill Hussey School (Kindergarten-Grade 2) 698-4465, Maghen Ward Thank you for your continued support and assistance. Sincerely, Audra E. Beauvais Superintendent of Schools