Dennis-Yarmouth Middle School Handbook

Dennis Yarmouth Middle School is the bridge that provides our students the skills to be ready for their High School experience and beyond. Here at DYMS we foster family values, excellence, academic effort and nurturing diverse talents. The school’s student centered programs develop thinking competence and skills essential for our students to be life-long learners, as well as attitudes important for self-reliant, responsible members of the community. Our students are our future.

As the Principal of DYMS, it is my mission to continue to build on the strong traditions our students, staff and families have grown accustomed to. My goal is to ensure that every student is provided the highest quality of education in a safe and supportive learning environment.  I’m a firm believer that collaboration among teachers, staff, and parents, is essential to helping each student achieve his/her very best. Every student is valued and worthy of our best effort to make this happen! We believe that we are stronger together as a learning community and that our team effort helps prepare our students for their high school experience and ultimately college and career readiness. We invite you to visit our campus and see the great programs and support systems available to your child. My office door is always open to you. 

DYMS is committed to developing the next generation of leaders. All students are invited to become school Ambassadors.The athletics at DYMS are outstanding with 19 competitive teams offered; an exceptional offering compared to other middle schools. DYMS offers career-minded/civic opportunities such as an official Best Buddies chapter, Career Day, and an impressive Speaker Series. 

 

Michael Bovino, Principal

Holly Burns, Assistant Principal

Lee Hanscom, Assistant Principal

Mrs. Mumford - Receptionist

Mrs. Oliva – Principal’s Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Wright – Data Specialist

Mrs. Pitasi - Special Education Secretary

                            

                        Dennis-Yarmouth Middle School website

                          

                      Dennis Yarmouth  Middle School   8:00 AM - 2:42 PM

 Our doors will open at 7:50 am

The school administration reserves the right to establish fair and reasonable rules and regulations for circumstances that may require actions that are not covered in this handbook. In all cases, rules, regulations and possible consequences shall be as consistent as possible with previously established rules, regulations and consequences for similar incidents. Matters omitted from this handbook should not be interpreted as a limitation to the scope of the school’s responsibility and, therefore, the school’s authority in dealing with any type of infraction that may not be in the best interest of the safety and welfare of our students.

Additionally school administration reserves the right to conduct a search of any and all students belongings, including but not limited to, lockers, backpacks, clothing etc. In accordance with the Massachusetts courts, students have no such expectation of privacy in the personal property and belongings that students bring with them to school along with any other school-issued items.  

These rules and policies apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or on the bus, at any school sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school, students and staff.

All students are responsible for adhering to the current rules and regulations set forth

 by the state of Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

 

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District Core Values and Beliefs

 

VISION STATEMENT

Dennis Yarmouth Middle School is committed to preparing students to become lifelong learners and global citizens who collaborate respectfully, responsibly, and resourcefully.

The school administration reserves the right to establish fair and reasonable rules and regulations for circumstances that may require actions that are not covered in this handbook. In all cases, rules, regulations and possible consequences shall be as consistent as possible with previously established rules, regulations and consequences for similar incidents. Matters omitted from this handbook should not be interpreted as a limitation to the scope of the school’s responsibility and, therefore, the school’s authority in dealing with any type of infraction that may not be in the best interest of the safety and welfare of our students.

Additionally school administration reserves the right to conduct a search of any and all students belongings, including but not limited to, lockers, backpacks, clothing etc. In accordance with the Massachusetts courts, students have no such expectation of privacy in the personal property and belongings that students bring with them to school along with any other school-issued items.  

These rules and policies apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or on the bus, at any school sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school, students and staff.

All students are responsible for adhering to the current rules and regulations set forth

 by the state of Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• To meet all academic obligations 
• To be treated with respect by all members of the school 
• To treat all members of the school community, both pupils and staff, with respect 
• To be personally safe 
• To help make the school a safe environment for all students 
• To do school work in clean surroundings and to help keep the school a clean place for everyone 
• To be expressive  in a manner that will not cause disruption, disturbance, or embarrassment to others 
• To know and understand individual classroom and school-wide discipline policies and to avoid behaviors which are in  violation of these behavioral expectations

PARENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• To treat all members of the school community with respect 
• To be treated with respect by all members of the school community 
• To help make the school a safe environment for all students and staff
• To expect an appropriate education for their child 
• To express their opinion 
• To inspect all portions of their child's records 
• To expect fair application of all school-wide policies 
• To actively participate in their child’s education

CONDUCT STANDARDS AND GOALS

We set a clearly-defined standard of respectful behavior within the Dennis Yarmouth Middle School community that promotes a safe and productive learning and teaching environment. All members of our community have a responsibility to conduct themselves in a way that demonstrates respect for all individuals, their rights, and their property. We are committed to the following objectives:

• To promote mutual respect among students, faculty, administration and parents through the display of appropriate language, attitude and physical behavior. 
• To maintain a safe and secure learning environment where all students have the opportunity to reach their potential. 
• To promote each student’s self-knowledge, self-discipline and self-reliance. 

• To recognize and value individual differences. 

• To recognize that the management of student behavior is the collective responsibility of students, staff/faculty, administrators and parents. 

• To maintain open lines of communication between school and home in a positive and consistent manner while recognizing the individual needs of students.

Dennis-Yarmouth Middle School offers English language arts, math, social studies, science, reading and foreign language. Related arts include physical education, health, art, technology, and general music.  Some students will be scheduled for EL, student support centers and band lessons. 

 

ACADEMIC HONESTY AND INTEGRITY

Students are held to the highest standards of honesty and integrity in their academic work and in the dealings with teachers and fellow students. Cheating, plagiarizing, forging or misrepresenting parent or school communications are prohibited. These offenses may result in loss of credit and/or disciplinary action.

 

 

DENNIS-YARMOUTH AI VISION AND GUIDELINES 

 

In Dennis-Yarmouth, we believe that equitable access to Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and education is essential to preparing every student for success in a rapidly evolving world. Our schools are committed to empowering all learners to be ethical, informed, and creative problem solvers who can adapt, collaborate, and lead in an increasingly technological society.

 

HOMEWORK

Homework assignments vary with individual teachers. 

If parents have any questions concerning homework assignments, they should contact the teacher. 

 

 DYM HOMEWORK PROCEDURE

 

Homework Rationale

Homework provides the opportunity to develop students' responsibility and accountability, as well as fostering intellectual discipline through retrieval practice and application. Homework helps students learn independence in preparation for being college and career ready. 
Definition
Homework is any activity or assignment directed by the teacher to be performed outside the classroom that may include practicing skills learned in class, reading, studying, projects, or completion of assignments.

 

Rules for Homework

• Activities or assignments that students can complete independently 
• Constructed to be completed within a reasonable time allotment 
• Connected to grade level common core state standards. 
• Engaging, purposeful, and relevant
• Consideration shall be given to quality over quantity 
• Assignments will be modified based on student needs 
• Teacher grading policies will indicate how homework is graded in his or her classes- it will count for no more than 20% of a student’s grade.

 

STUDENT GUIDELINES

• Record homework in the student agenda when assigned in class by the teacher
• Advocate for yourself and seek clarification from teachers when unclear about homework
• Use class time provided for completing classwork and/or starting homework.
• Seek after school help as necessary.
• Use online resources to monitor completion of assignments (Google classroom, student portal, Edmodo etc). 
• Complete homework as assigned

 

Homework Tips for Students

• Write homework reminders in the school issued agenda daily 
• Ask clarifying questions to be sure the expectations on your assignments are clear
• Know, record, and monitor due dates
• Have a quiet space with basic materials for homework completion
• Make homework part of your daily after school routine
• Take a break when tired; then resume work
• When you have questions about the homework, place a note next to it and ask the teacher the next day.
• Return to school prepared with materials, charged iPad, and completed assignments daily (iPad, pencil, PE clothes, reading materials, supplies, musical instruments etc). 

 

PARENT GUIDELINES
Provide a quiet space and basic materials for homework completion.

Check your students agenda for homework assignments/notes.
Teach techniques that can help children allocate their time wisely, meet their deadlines, and develop good personal study habits.
Monitor time management and productivity.
Monitor appropriate use of technology for assignment completion

Review school provided materials (for example class handouts, and/or online resources).
Communicate with teachers at the earliest possible opportunity once the child has demonstrated consistent inability to complete homework.

Encourage students to attend after school help days.

Use online resources such as Google Classroom, TeacherPlus Portal, etc.

Contact Comcast for discounted internet home access. 

 

Scheduling Time and Parameters
Assignments shall be designed so that the typical student can complete all homework, including time for studying and preparing for exams, in the average minutes shown.

Grade 6 – 60 minutes maximum daily ( 15/20 minutes per class) 

Grade 7 – 70 minutes maximum  daily ( 15/20 minutes per class) 

For an advanced class students and parents should expect homework for that class to increase homework total time by 10 to 20 minutes daily for a potential total of 80 to 90 minutes.

In addition, students shall be encouraged to allot time to read for pleasure (suggested: 20 minutes daily). Reading for pleasure and music practice times are not included in the time parameters shown. 

 

MAKEUP WORK & AFTER-SCHOOL HELP 

After school help is offered on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 2:50-3:50. Students should report to their after school destination no later than 2:50.

 

If you anticipate your child being out sick for an extended period of time, more than 5 days, it is encouraged that you contact your child’s teachers directly.  Anticipated absences greater than 5 days should be promptly directed to the school counselors and/or social worker.

Students who miss school work shall be given the opportunity to complete all assignments and tests that can be reasonably provided. It is expected that students will make-up any missed assignments. As determined by the teacher, the assignments and tests shall be reasonably equivalent to, but not necessarily identical to, the assignments and tests missed during the absence. The student and the teacher will meet to collaboratively create a reasonable timeline for the missed work to be completed.

 

GRADING AND REPORT CARDS

Report Cards will be produced electronically through Powerschool at the end of each trimester. Mid-term performance reports are also generated through Plusportal at the midpoint of the marking period. These reports are used to help the student and parents gauge their child's progress. If there are any questions or concerns about your child’s report card or progress report, contact the child's teacher or team. A variety of data is used during the term to factor a student’s grade. Tests, quizzes, homework, classroom work, projects, participation, or any other information that provides evidence of student performance is utilized. The report cards will also include conduct and effort comments that have been chosen from an extensive list of possible comments. These comments are intended to give parents a more comprehensive assessment of their child’s work and work habits. The grading is as follows:

 

Teachers use an alpha grading scale ranging from “A” to “F”.

 

HONOR ROLL

The achievement of being placed on the school’s Honor Roll reflects the student’s total contribution to the school’s environment. A student placed on the High Honor or Honor Roll serves as a role model for other students. The following are Honor Roll standards at DYMS:

High Honors: Students must achieve a grade of A- or better in all subjects.

Honors: Students must achieve grades of B- or higher in all subjects

PROMOTION POLICY

Promotion shall be made according to the progress of the pupil as recommended by teachers and the Principal. A pupil may be retained based on teacher recommendation, approved by the Principal and the school psychologist, if the benefits appear to be great enough to warrant repeating the grade. Insufficient attendance, failing or unsatisfactory grades, and lack of adequate progress may cause a student to be retained in a grade. Parents are given adequate notification of impending failure through interim progress reports, report cards, and/or conferences (in person or by phone) with the teacher. It is very important that parents heed such notification and work with the child and the teacher to improve the student’s performance.

SOCIAL PROBATION

If a student receives 2 or more “Fs” on his/her Performance Report or Report Card they will be placed on social probation. Social probation withholds students from attending any social event (Athletics, ASA, Dances, etc.) during the probation time period. The probationary period will last for 2 weeks. During the 2 weeks the student is expected and required to stay after with the specific teacher in which the student is failing. After the 2 week probation the student will be required to bring an unofficial performance report from the specific teacher to his/her Assistant Principal, indicating completion of 100% of assignments for that week.  At the end of the 2 week probation the student is required to have a “D - ” average or better in that specific course to be taken off probation. Social Probation can also be applied to student behavior at the discretion of Administration. 

BOOKS AND SCHOOL-ISSUED MATERIAL

• Lost textbooks/library/resource books and iPads must be paid for in full. 
• iPads, books and other school-issued materials are checked prior to distribution and collection. Students are responsible for any damage done while in their possession. 
• Combination locks are provided to each student.  Ten dollars will be charged for any damaged or lost lock.

BULLYING PREVENTION & INTERVENTION 

Link to School Committee Policy

Bullying of any type has no place in a school setting. The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will endeavor to maintain a learning and working environment free of bullying.

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District School Committee Policy

BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District is committed to providing a safe, positive and productive educational environment where students can achieve the highest academic standards. It is committed to maintaining a school environment where all students regardless of legal status are free from bullying and cyberbullying and the effects thereof. No student shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying. 

Acts of bullying and cyberbullying are prohibited: 

1. On school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, at a school sponsored or school related activity, function or program whether on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by a school district or school, or through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by a school district; and 

2. At a location, activity, at a function or program that is not school related, or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by a school district or school, if the acts create a hostile environment at school for the victim, infringes on their rights at school or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. 

Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, who provides information during an investigation of bullying, or who witnesses or has reliable information about bullying shall be prohibited. 

As stated in M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O, nothing in this Plan requires the district or school to staff any non-school related activities, functions or programs. 

I. Definitions 

Aggressor, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370, is a  student or a member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional who engages in bullying or retaliation. 

B. Bullying, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370, is the repeated use by one or more students or by a member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: 

1. Causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damages the victim’s property; 

2. Places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or damage to his property;

3. Creates a hostile environment at school for the victim;

4. Infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or

5. Materially and substantially disrupts the education process or orderly operation of 

    a school.

Bullying includes cyberbullying. It may include conduct such as physical intimidation or assault, including: intimidating an individual into taking an action against his/her will, oral or written threats, teasing, putdowns, name calling, stalking, threatening looks, gestures, or actions, cruel rumors, false accusations, and social isolation. 

C. Cvberbullying, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370 is bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system; including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. 

Cyberbullying shall also include: 

1. The creations of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person; 

2. The knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (Bl) to (B5), inclusive, of the definition of bullying; and 

3. The distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (Bl) to (B5) inclusive, of the definition of bullying. 

D. Hostile Environment, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370, is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule, or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive so as to alter the conditions of the student’s education. 

E. Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a person who reports bullying, who provides information during an investigation of bullying, or who witnesses or has reliable information about bullying. 

F. School Staff includes, but is not limited to, educators, administrators, counselors, school nurses, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, athletic coaches, advisors to extracurricular activities, support staff, or paraprofessionals.

G. Victim is a student against whom bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation has been perpetrated. 

H. Perpetrator, a student or a member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional who engages in bullying or retaliation. 

II. Bullying and Retaliation Are Prohibited and Will Lead to Discipline 

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District absolutely prohibits bullying, cyberbullying and retaliation as defined above. Students who engage in bullying or retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action. However, disciplinary action taken must balance the need for accountability with the need to teach appropriate behavior. The range of disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: verbal warnings, written warnings, reprimands, detentions, short-term or long-term suspensions, or expulsions from school as determined by the school administration and/or school committee, subject to applicable procedural requirements. Nothing in this policy is intended to prevent the school administration and/or school committee from taking disciplinary action against a student for conduct that does not meet the definition of bullying or cyberbullying, as defined above, but nevertheless is inappropriate for the school environment. 

If the principal or designee determines that a student knowingly made a false allegation of bullying or retaliation, that student may be subject to disciplinary action. 

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District recognizes that certain students may be more vulnerable to becoming a victim of bullying or harassment based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status, gender identity or expression, physical appearance, pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation, mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have 1 more of these characteristics. The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will take specific steps to create a safe, supportive environment for vulnerable populations in the school community, and provides all students with skills, knowledge, and strategies to prevent or respond to bullying, harassment or teasing. The sections below describe how the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will support these students. 

Students with disabilities. As required by M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3, as amended by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010, when the Individual Education Plan (IEP) Team determines the student has a disability that affects social skills development or the student may participate in or is vulnerable to bullying, harassment, or teasing because of his/her disability, the IEP shall address the skills and proficiencies needed to avoid and respond to bullying, harassment, or teasing. 

III. Reporting Obligations 

Each school will make a variety of reporting resources available to the school community which may include, but are not limited to, a web-based reporting tool, a voicemail box, a dedicated mailing address, and/or an email address. The school will communicate the availability of these tools and the policies for reporting when they are established and then at the beginning of each school year thereafter and will be included in student handbooks and on the district and school web sites. This information will also be provided in other prevalent languages other than English used by families in the school district. Parents or guardians, and others may request assistance from a staff member to complete a written report. Students will be provided practical, safe, private and age-appropriate ways to report and discuss an incident of bullying with a staff member, or with the principal or designee. 

A. Reporting by Staff: A member of school staff, including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, secretary, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional, shall immediately report any instance of bullying or retaliations s/he witnesses or becomes aware of to the school principal or designee. The requirement to report as provided does not limit the authority of a staff member to respond to behavioral or disciplinary incidents consistent with school or district policies and procedures for behavior management and discipline. 

B. Reporting by Students, Parents/Guardians, and Others: The District expects students, parents/guardian, and others who witness or become aware of an instance of bullying or retaliation involving a student to report it to the school principal or designee. An individual may make an anonymous report of bullying or retaliation, however, no disciplinary action may be taken against an alleged aggressor solely on the basis of an anonymous report. An individual who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation shall be subject to disciplinary action. 

C. Reporting to Parents/Guardians: Upon determining that bullying or retaliation has occurred, the principal or designee will notify the parent/guardian of the victim and of the aggressor of this finding and of the school’s procedures for responding to it. There may be circumstances in which the principal contacts parents or guardians prior to any investigation. 

D. Reporting to Local Law Enforcement: At any point after receipt of a report of bullying or retaliation, or during or after an investigation, if the school Principal or designee has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor, the school principal or designee will notify the local law enforcement agency. In addition, if an incident of bullying or retaliation occurs on school grounds and involves a former student under the age of 21 who is no longer enrolled, the principal or designee will notify local law enforcement if he/she believes that criminal charges may be pursued. In making this determination, the principal, will consistent with the Plan and with applicable school or district policies and procedures, consult with the school resource officer, if any, and other individuals deemed appropriate. The principal must document the reasons for the referral to law enforcement. 

E. Reporting to Administrator of Another School District or School: If an incident of bullying or retaliation involves students from more than one school district, charter school, non-public school, approved private day or residential school or collaborative school and the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District is the first to be informed of the bullying or retaliation, then the Superintendent of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District or designee must, consistent with state and federal law, promptly notify the appropriate administrator of the other school district or school, so both may take appropriate action. 

IV. School Investigation 

The principal or designee, upon receipt of a report, shall promptly contact the parents or guardians of a student who has been the alleged victim or alleged perpetrator of bullying. The actions being taken to prevent further acts of bullying shall be discussed. A principal may not disclose information from a student record of a victim or aggressor to a parent unless the information is about the parent’s own child. 

The school principal or designee shall investigate promptly all reports of bullying or retaliation, using a Bullying/Cyberbullying Report Form, giving consideration to all available information known, including the nature of the allegations and ages of the students involved. 

The investigation shall be completed within fourteen school days from the date of the report. The parents or guardians shall be contacted upon completion of the investigation and informed of the results, including whether the allegations were found to be factual, whether a violation of this policy was found, and whether disciplinary action has or shall be taken. At a minimum the principal or his/her designee shall contact the parents or guardians as to the status of the investigation on a weekly basis. 

Disciplinary actions for students who have committed an act of bullying or retaliation shall be in accordance with district disciplinary policies. 

Each school shall document any incident of bullying that is reported per this policy and a file shall be maintained by the principal or designee. A monthly report shall be provided to the Superintendent with: (i) the number of reported allegations of bullying or retaliation; (ii) the number and nature of substantiated incidents of bullying or retaliation; (iii) the number of students disciplined for engaging in bullying or retaliation; and (iv) any other relevant information. Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will annually report this information to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

The following are general guidelines for responding to a report of bullying or retaliation. The guidelines will be adapted as necessary to respond appropriately to the complaint. 

A. Pre-Investigation: Even before fully investigating allegations of bullying or retaliation, school personnel will consider whether there is a need to take immediate steps to support the alleged victim and/or protect the alleged victim from further potential incidents of concern. In taking any such action, however, the rights of both the alleged victim and alleged aggressor must be considered. 

B. Written statement of the complaint: The investigator will seek to determine the basis of the complaint, gathering information from the complainant, including such matters as: what specifically happened, who committed the alleged acts, who was present or may have information about the events, when the events occurred (date, time of day), and where the events occurred.

If age appropriate, the complainant may be asked to put the complaint in writing and to sign and date it. If the complainant cannot or chooses not to write a complaint, the investigator will record the allegations, read them to the complainant to confirm accuracy, and ask the complainant to sign the document. If the complainant cannot or chooses not to sign, the investigator may sign and date the document her/himself. 

C. Interviews: Once the allegations of the complainant are established, the investigator will gather other evidence, which often involves interviews of the alleged aggressor and/or other witnesses. The investigator should remind the alleged aggressor and witnesses to be truthful and that retaliation against persons whom they believe might have reported the incidents or cooperated with the investigation is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action. 

D. Confidentiality: The confidentiality of the complainant and the other witnesses will be maintained, to the extent practicable, given the school’s obligation to investigate and address the matter. 

V. School Determination 

School personnel must weigh all of the evidence objectively to determine whether the alleged events occurred and, if they did, whether the events constitute bullying or retaliation. The determination must be based upon all of the facts and circumstances and the perspective of a reasonable person. 

If bullying or retaliation is substantiated, the school will take steps reasonably calculated to prevent recurrence and ensure that the victim is not restricted in participating in school or in benefiting from school activities. The principal or designee will: 1) determine what remedial action is required, if any; 2) determine what responsive actions and/or disciplinary action is necessary; 3) notify law enforcement if the principal or designee believes that criminal charges may be pursued; 4) notify the parents or guardians of the perpetrator; and 5) notify the parents or guardians of the victim. As with the investigation, the response will be individually tailored to all of the circumstances, including the nature of the conduct and the age of the students involved. In addition to taking disciplinary action, the following are examples of steps that may be taken to prevent the recurrence of bullying or retaliation: 

• Hold parent conferences; 

• Transfer a student’s classroom or school; 

• Limit or deny student access to a part, or area, of a school; 

• Enhance adult supervision on school premises; 

• Exclude a student from participation in school-sponsored or school-related functions, after-school programs, and/or extracurricular activities; 

• Provide relevant educational activities for individual students or groups of students;

• Create a Personalized Action Plan and directives for future conduct, including providing the victim with a process for reporting any concerns about future conduct immediately; 

• Arrange for communication between the parties, if appropriate, to assist them in resolving issues which have arisen between them. (Such an approach will be used cautiously since communication can sometimes exacerbate, rather than alleviate, the victim’s concerns and since the conduct often involves an imbalance of power); and 

• Provide school counseling (or other appropriate services) or referral to such services for the victim and/or the aggressor and/or for appropriate family members of said students. 

Depending upon the circumstances, the principal or designee may choose to consult with the students’ teacher(s) and/or school counselor, and the victim’s or student aggressor’s parents or guardians, to identify any underlying social or emotional issues that may have contributed to the bullying behavior and to assess the level of need for additional social skills development. 

The principal or designee will inform the parent or guardian of the victim about the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s problem resolution system and the process for accessing that system, regardless of the outcome of the bullying determination. 

If the principal or designee decides that disciplinary action is appropriate, the disciplinary action will be determined on the basis of facts found by the principal or designee, including the nature of the conduct, the age of the student(s) involved, and the need to balance accountability with the teaching of appropriate behavior. 

Discipline procedures for students with disabilities are governed by the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), which should be read in cooperation with state laws regarding student discipline. 

VI. Restoring Safety to Victim 

Before fully investigating the allegations of bullying or retaliation, the principal or designee will take steps to assess the need to restore a sense of safety to the alleged victim and/or to protect the alleged victim from possible further incidents. Responses to promote safety may include, but not be limited to, creating a personal safety plan; pre-determining seating arrangements for the victim and/or the aggressor in the classroom, at lunch, or on the bus; identifying a staff member who will act as a “safe person” for the victim; and altering the aggressor’s schedule and access to the victim. The principal or designee will take additional steps to promote safety during the course of and after the investigation, as necessary. 

The principal or designee will implement appropriate strategies for protecting from bullying or retaliation a student who has reported bullying or retaliation, a student who has witnessed bullying or retaliation, a student who provides information during an investigation, or a student who has reliable information about a reported act of bullying or retaliation. Those steps include, but are not limited to, check-ins with witnesses, identifying a staff member to report any retaliation or bullying and notifying individuals of their right to be free from bullying or retaliation.

VII. Closing the Complaint and Possible Follow-Up 

If a complaint is substantiated, school staff will promptly provide notice to the parent/guardian of the victim and the aggressor in the primary language of the home. Notice will indicate what action is being taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation. Specific information about disciplinary action taken generally will not be released to the victim’s parents, or guardians - unless it involves a “stay away” or other directive that the victim must be aware of in order to report violations. 

Within a reasonable time period following closure of the complaint, the administrative staff or designee will contact the victim to determine whether there has been any recurrence of the prohibited conduct and whether additional supportive measures are needed. If so, the principal or designee will work with appropriate school staff to implement them immediately. 

The District will retain a report of the complaint, containing the name of the complainant, the date of the complaint, investigator, school, a brief statement of the nature of the complaint, the outcome of the investigation, and the action taken. 

VIII. Ongoing Efforts to Reduce Bullying 

A. Professional development will be provided for all staff annually, including, but not limited to: 

a. Inclusion of the District Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy in staff handbooks; 

b. Developmentally appropriate strategies to prevent or stop bullying incidents; 

c. Information regarding the complex interaction and power differential between and among a perpetrator, victim, and witnesses to the bullying; 

d. Research findings, including information on vulnerable or at-risk populations of students; 

e. Internet safety as it relates to cyberbullying; 

f. Information on the incidence and nature of cyberbullying; and 

g. Developmentally appropriate strategies for immediate, effective interventions to stop bullying incidents. 

Staff members hired after the start of the school year are required to participate in school-based training during the school year in which they are hired, unless they can demonstrate participation in an acceptable comparable program within the last two years. 

B. Annually the District will inform parents and guardians in the languages which are most prevalent among the students, parents or guardians about bullying prevention and intervention strategies and policy through a variety of communication tools, including, but not limited student-parent handbooks. The goal will be to assist parents and guardians in understanding 

• The District/School curriculum; 

• How to reinforce prevention and intervention strategies at home; 

• Bullying dynamics; and 

• Online safety and cyberbullying. 

C. Annually students will be educated about bullying prevention and intervention through the use of scientifically based research tools and through efforts to relate anti-bullying to other school initiatives that create a positive school climate. 

Age-appropriate, evidence-based instruction on bullying prevention shall be incorporated into the curriculum for all K to 12 students. 

D. Publication and Notice 

Annual written notice of the relevant sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be provided to students and their parents or guardians, in age-appropriate terms. 

Annual written notice of the bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be provided to all school staff. The faculty and staff at each school shall be trained annually on the bullying prevention and intervention plan applicable to the school. 

Relevant sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan relating to the duties of faculty and staff shall be included in the school employee handbook. 

The bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be posted on the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District website: DY Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan

E. Prevention and Intervention Plan 

The Superintendent and/or his/her designee shall oversee the development of a prevention and intervention plan, in consultation with all district stakeholders, which may include teachers, school staff, professional support personnel, school volunteers, administrators, community representatives, local law enforcement agencies, students, parents and guardians, consistent with the requirements of this policy, as well as state and federal laws. The bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be reviewed and updated at least biennially. 

The Principal is responsible for the implementation and oversight of the bullying prevention and implementation plan within his or her school.  

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will administer a survey at least once every 4 years to assess school climate and the prevalence, nature and severity of bullying in schools. The survey will be designed to protect student privacy and allow for anonymous participation by students. The principals will verify completion of the student surveys and all completed surveys will be sent to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

IX. Problem Resolution System 

Any parent wishing to file a claim/concern or seeking assistance outside of the district may do so with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Program Resolution System (PRS). That information can be found at: http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa, emails can be sent to compliance@doe.mass.edu or individuals can call 781-338-3700. Hard copies of this information are available at the Superintendent’s office. 

X. Relationship to Other Laws 

Consistent with state and federal laws, and the policies of the school or district, no individuals shall be discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town or in obtaining the advantages, privilege and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, academic status, gender identity or expression, physical appearance, sexual orientation, or mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability, or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics. Nothing in the Plan prevents the school or district from taking action to remediate discrimination or harassment based on a person’s membership in a legally protected category under local, state or federal law, or school or district policies. 

In addition, nothing in the Plan is designed or intended to limit the authority of the school or district to take disciplinary or other action under M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 37H or 37H ½, M.G.L. c. 71 §§41 and 42, M.G.L. c. 76, § 5, or other applicable laws, or local school or district policies, or collective bargaining agreements, in response to violent, harmful, or disruptive behavior, regardless of whether the Plan covers the behavior. 

Adopted: November 16, 2015 

Reviewed and Adopted with Revisions: August 13, 2018

 

 

HARASSMENT GUIDELINES

Link to School Committee Policy

Harassment of students by other students, employees, vendors and other third parties will not be tolerated in the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District. The alleged harassment must involve conduct that occurred within the school's own program or activity, such as whether the harassment occurred at a location or under circumstances where the school owned, or substantially controlled the premises, exercised oversight, supervision or discipline over the location or participants, or funded, sponsored, promoted or endorsed the event where the alleged harassment occurred, against a person in the United States.  This policy is in effect while students are on school grounds, School District property or property within the jurisdiction of the School District, school buses, or attending or engaging in school sponsored activities.

Harassment prohibited by the District includes, but is not limited to, harassment on the basis race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic  information, active military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, or pregnancy-related condition, homelessness, ancestry, ethnic background, national origin, or any other category protected by state or federal law. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion pursuant to disciplinary codes. Employees who have been found to violate this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment, subject to contractual disciplinary obligations.

Employee-to-Student Harassment means conduct of a written, verbal or physical nature that is designed to embarrass distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students when:

•  Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student's education or of a student's participation in school programs or activities; or
•  Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions affecting the student.

Student- to-Student Harassment means conduct of a written, verbal, or physical nature that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students, when:

•  Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating or hostile learning environment.

Harassment as described above may include, but is not limited to:

•  Written, verbal, or physical (including texting, blogging, or other technological methods) harassment or abuse;
•  Repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
•  Implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, or other school matter.
•  Demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.

By law, what constitutes harassment is determined from the perspective of a reasonable person with the characteristic on which the harassment is based. Individuals should consider how their words and actions might reasonably be viewed by others.

The District will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment through designation of Title IX Coordinator or building based employees, who may include principals or their designees. The superintendent will recommend, in consultation with the principals, opportunities to the designated recipients for appropriate training.  Where it is determined that discrimination or harassment has occurred, the District will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and will impose developmentally appropriate disciplinary, restorative and/or corrective action.

The District will respond promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of sexual harassment through designation of the Title IX Coordinator or building based employees to any reports or complaints of discrimination, including harassment and retaliation, or other violations of civil rights, pursuant to our detailed response protocol. Where it is determined that discrimination or harassment has occurred, the District will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and will impose developmentally- appropriate disciplinary, restorative, and/or corrective action. 

LEGAL REF.:  M.G.L. 151B:3A

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972

BESE 603 CMR 26:00

34 CFR 106.44 (a), (a)-(b)

34 CFR 106.45 (a)-(b) (1)

34 CFR 106.45 (b)(2)-(b)(3,4,5,6,7) as revised through June 2020

CROSS REF.:  AC, Non-Discrimination Policy Including Harassment and Retaliation

SOURCE:  MASC - December 2021

Reviewed and Adopted with Revisions:  April 11, 2022

The OCR office for Massachusetts is located at:

Washington DC (Metro)

Office for Civil Rights

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-1475

Telephone: 202-453-6020  FAX: 202-453-6021; TDD: 800-877-8339 

Email: OCR.DC@ed.gov

 

 

The Superintendent may delay the opening or closing of schools in the event of hazardous weather or other emergencies that threaten the health or safety of students and personnel. Students, parents and staff will be informed early in each school year of notification procedures, including calls made to every household via our parent notification system. When schools are closed, all other activities, including athletic events, will be canceled. In the event school is canceled any given day, broadcasts will be made by the following:

MASS MESSAGING SYSTEM

The Dennis-Yarmouth School District and DY Middle School use ParentSquare to deliver timely messages to the homes of our students. In the event of an emergency school closing or a delayed school opening, a ParentSquare message is sent. In order to receive these notifications, you are asked to sign up for ParentSquare.
 

CONTACTING CHILDREN DURING SCHOOL HOURS

We ask that parents and students make plans for the entire day before the child leaves for school. In the event a parent needs to get a message to their child, please call the Main Office and the message will be delivered to your student. Please do not call or text your child’s cell phone during school hours. 

DYMS Main Office: 508-778-7979

Please do not call or text your child’s cell phone during school hours.  

CONTACT INFORMATION

The ability to communicate is only as successful as the contact information we have for our families. Please make certain we have the most up to date home address, mailing address, direct dial numbers and e-mail addresses (if desired). If this information changes please let the school office know immediately.

SOCIAL MEDIA

DYMS has Facebook and Instagram pages to assist in sharing information with stakeholders.  You can follow D-Y Middle using these handles:

Facebook

DYMS Facebook

Instagram

dymiddleschool

D-Y Middle School Website:

DYMS Website

PowerSchool: 

Powerschool - Parent/Student Login

LiveSchool:

Liveschool - Parent Login

 

SCHOOL VISITS

All visitors to DYMS must enter the building through the front door during school hours (7:50 am-2:45 pm). Exterior doors are locked at all times. Visitors will be buzzed into the building. Anyone who is coming to the Main Office only will not have to use an ID. All other visitors must show a photo ID to sign-in at the Main Office. A visitor’s identification badge will be provided and must be worn and visible while in the building. No person may enter any classroom without the consent of the Principal.

A student, parent or visitor engaged in disruptive or tumultuous behavior or behavior that disturbs the good order of the school, whether inside the school, on school grounds or at a school sponsored event will be given direction to discontinue such behavior and an opportunity to comply. If the behavior continues the student, parent or visitor may be given a directive by the person in charge of the school or his or her designee to leave the school, its grounds or the location of the off-site school sponsored event. The person subject to the directive to leave is expected to comply immediately and leave the school and its grounds or the location of the off-site event. Failure to comply may result in a referral to law enforcement with a request to see to the removal of the person subject to the directive to leave or other action as they see fit.

For the purposes of this section, the school resource officer or other police officer assigned specifically to protect the school or school event is considered a designee of the person in charge of the school and is granted supervisory control of the school building and grounds or other property in the case of an off-site school event for the purposes of issuing the aforementioned directive to leave. The building Principal has the authority to assign a building designee for the supervision of the building. 

 

CONTACTING STAFF

Communication between the home and school is an important element in each child's education. This communication, especially if initiated early in the school year, can be a positive force in the student's academic and social growth. Part of that early communication is the fall open house.  When problems exist or are suspected, it is advisable that parents and teachers talk before the difficulty becomes more serious. Conferences can be arranged by calling the school office at 508-778-7979 or emailing the teacher. All school parent/teacher conferences days will be held twice during the year. Staff email addresses can be found on the district website. In general, it’s most EFFECTIVE TO CONTACT STAFF VIA EMAIL.  If you call the Main Office, messages for staff are put to voicemail.

 

Link to Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District Office of Instruction Page

DYRSD Policies

 

Co-curricular activities and Athletics are part of the educational program.  Co-curricular activities and Athletics are a privilege.  Student-athletes and co-curricular students are expected to follow all school rules and to demonstrate good school citizenship at all times.  Student-athletes and co-curricular students may be “benched” and/or removed from a team or co-curricular activity for inappropriate behavior. 
 

CO-CURRICULARS

All students are encouraged to participate in after school activities and athletics.  After school activities will be listed at the start of each trimester.

A student must attend school for at least one-half day to participate in or attend any social or co-curricular activities that day. This rule may be waived prior to the event in individual cases by the Principal if in her/his judgment the absences were for good reason and not to avoid student responsibility.

ATHLETICS

Middle school students who participate on teams at DYM are subject to the DYM and DYRHS rules governing athletes and also the rules of the MIAA. These rules are available in the MMS Student/Parent Handbook and on the MIAA website: www.miaa.netMIAA Link

ATHLETIC INELIGIBILITY

If a student has more than one F on their report card or performance report he or she is ineligible for any sport until they are able to bring their grades up to a passing grade, D- or better. If the student brings the grade(s) up to passing he/she may participate in a sport.  Last term ineligibility carries over to the next school year. A student who is ineligible after the last term is ineligible at the start of the next academic year. They will become eligible if they are not in danger of failing at the time of the first performance report.

ATHLETIC PROBATION

A student who receives one “F” on either a performance report or a report card will be placed on an academic probation contract that will last until the student is able to bring his/her grade up to passing. The student will be required to attend extra help with his/her teacher weekly to review academic progress.

A student on academic probation can still participate on an athletic team after he/she attends the required extra help session. The student is required to bring the grade above a “Failure” (D-) to be taken off academic probation. If his/her weekly probation contract does not show adequate progress towards improving the grade the coach may drop him/her from the sport. Note: Exceptions to this policy may be made by the administration.

DANCE RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Only current Dennis Yarmouth Middle School students may attend.

2. Students who are absent, suspended, or on social probation may not attend the dance. 

3. Money will be refunded to students who are prohibited from attending the dance. 

4. Students may not leave the building until the conclusion of the dance or by permission of an administrator. If a student does leave the building disciplinary action will be taken. 

5. Dances are held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• Doors will open at 5:50 p.m.
• At 8:00 p.m., 6^th grade students may be picked up at parent pick up location and 7^th grade students may be picked up at the bus loop.
• The dance ends at 8:00 p.m., students who have not been picked up by 8:30 p.m. will be prohibited from attending any other social activities in the future. 

6. All general school rules apply. 

ATTENDANCE AT ATHLETIC CONTESTS & SCHOOL FUNCTIONS

Attendance at all athletic contests, home and away, and school functions is encouraged during normal circumstances. Students are reminded that they represent Dennis Yarmouth Middle School at these events and should act accordingly. In addition to existing school policies regarding spectator behavior, the following regulations are in effect for all home events:

1. All spectators are to remain seated during the event. 
2. Students who are absent, suspended, or on social probation may not attend or participate in athletic events.
3.  Students will not be allowed to leave the building and re-enter. 
4. The gym and parking lot areas are to be vacated as soon as possible following the conclusion of the event. 
5. Students are subject to all existing school policies concerning behavior and discipline. 
6. Students must remain in the classroom until dismissed by the front office when the event starts.

SCHOOL HOURS/DROP-OFF AND PICK UP

 

The school day begins at 8:00 am and dismissal is at 2:42 pm. We are pleased to offer early drop off to our families starting at 7:20 am. Students being dropped off early must enter the building through the Kenneth Jenks Performing Arts entrance and remain in the cafeteria until the first bell at 7:50 am. Before school, students are not allowed to use school facilities for playing sports or other activities. At the end of the school day, buses depart at 2:47 pm. Students being picked up must wait at the pick up area by the middle school main entrance. Please arrange for your child to be picked up promptly after school, within 10 minutes of dismissal.

 

Student safety is our priority. When dropping off or picking up a student, take special care in our very busy traffic loop and parking area. To remain on school property after school hours, students must be involved in a school-sponsored activity with adult supervision. Late buses are available on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday for students who are staying after school with a teacher for make-up, extra help, after school activities, athletics, or for detention. Late buses are available Monday through Thursdays for students who stay after school for athletics, extra help, or after school activities. Students will need to know their home address to provide to the bus driver. Please note that students may not be dropped off at their normal bus stop.   

 

It may become necessary that if any student that is being picked up by a parent after athletics, extra help, detention or a co-curricular program where the parent is 20 minutes late for pick-up the student may be subject to social probation and no longer be allowed to stay after.

PARENTAL CONCERNS/CHAIN OF COMMAND

Parents may wish to bring concerns to the attention of appropriate school officials. To assist parents in this regard, the following general guidelines may be helpful:

• The parent should first raise any concern regarding a school-related matter with the staff member most directly involved. Email addresses are available on the Dennis Yarmouth Regional School District website.  Click Schools on the left of the screen (DY Middle School) click teacher name to leave a message. 

 

• If the matter remains unresolved, the parent should contact the building administration. Building administrators have authority to make final judgments regarding student discipline and other building policy matters. 

• If the parent continues to feel the problem is not resolved, the parent may wish to contact the Office of the Superintendent for guidance. 

 

We request that parents use the progressive steps outlined above as the teacher or other staff member most directly involved can address most problems satisfactorily. Not following the chain of command inevitably results in no decision and the matter being remanded to the staff member most directly involved. This matrix may help guide you. 

 

Parents and school personnel are expected to show each other respect in all communications and to listen to the other’s viewpoints. Respectful and reasonable communication between the parents and school personnel is helpful in obtaining satisfactory resolution of concerns.

ATTENDANCE

 

LATE ARRIVAL (TARDY)

Tardy is defined as not being in your advisory classroom by the 8:00 am bell.  Students who arrive at advisory after this time - even if they have been in the building are considered late to school. Tardy students must sign in at the Main Office for a tardy slip. If a parent knows their child will be tardy, a call should be placed to the school Absence Line with a message noting the day and the approximate time the student will arrive at school. Students are responsible for reporting to all assigned classes on time and supplying a valid excuse for any absence or tardiness. Students with excessive tardiness will be referred to the school social worker. If a student arrives at school after 11:33 am, the student is considered absent for the school day. The same is true if a student is dismissed from school prior to 11:33 am and does not return.

ABSENCES

The administration of Dennis-Yarmouth Middle School believes that success in school is directly related to student attendance. Our school uses a computerized program to track student absences. If your child is absent from school you will automatically receive a call from the system. You will not receive a call if you use the attendance line to report your child’s absence. To report such absence, please call:

508-778-7984

In addition, when the child returns to school after an absence of one day or more, he or she must present a note signed by a parent or guardian explaining the reason for the absence. Excessive absences will result in referral to the school attendance officer, Mr. Steele, After 8 absences Mr. Steele will hold a meeting with families to create a mutually agreed upon plan to improve attendance. After 12 absences the family will meet with the Assistant Principal to review the plan.  After 15 absences the school will most likely contact the District Attorney’s Office and file a CRA (Child Requiring Assistance). 

 

STUDENT ABSENCES

“Students who are absent from school are not experiencing the curriculum and instruction that will help prepare them for success.”  (Massachusetts Consolidated State Plan under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), April 2017.)  As part of the Massachusetts accountability system each district is required to improve performance in absenteeism rates.  Specifically, the state is most concerned with the number of students who are considered to be chronically absent, meaning that they missed 10 percent or more of their days of enrollment in a public school.  (Example, a student who enrolls in the district with only 60 days left in the school year and is absent 6 of those days is considered chronically absent.)  The reason for the absence is irrelevant and any child who misses more than 1⁄2 the school day must be considered absent.

 

The Committee recognizes students may be absent from school for the following reasons:  illness; bereavement or serious illness in family; weather so inclement as to endanger the health of the child; and observance of major holidays.  However, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education no longer differentiates between excused and unexcused absences.

 

VACATIONS

Vacations taken outside of regular school holidays are absences and are not encouraged. Inform the school office as well as your child’s teachers of any vacation plans you may have outside of regular school holidays. Please note it is not the teachers’ responsibility to provide work prior to an unexcused absence.

 

DISMISSALS

Parents are discouraged from requesting early dismissal except for emergencies. If you need to have a child dismissed early, send a note in the morning to inform the school. Parents should arrive at the school 5-10 minutes ahead of dismissal (with an ID) to pick up their child. Upon arrival, report to the office and the secretary will call your child out of class as you sign out your child. Students will not be called out of class prior to the parent’s arrival. If your child will be returning to school after an appointment, the child must sign back into the office. It is not necessary for the parent to come into the school with the child.
 

PARTICIPATION IN ATHLETICS/CO-CURRICULARS

A student must attend school for at least one-half day (arrive prior to 11:22 am) to participate in or attend any co-curricular activities. If the student is absent on the last day of the week, he/she is ineligible for any co-curricular activity on the following day. This rule may be waived in individual cases by the Principal if in his/her judgment the absences were for good reason and not to avoid student responsibility.

 

ARRIVAL and DISMISSAL PROCEDURE

After School Activities (ASA) occur on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students must arrive at their ASA course by 2:50pm.  At the 3:50 pm bell, instructors will release all students to the Main Office lobby for dismissal.  After School Activities (ASA) last one hour (2:50 pm–3:50 pm).  

LOCKERS

School lockers are the property of the school district. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students. Lockers should not be written on, damaged, or used to house obscene or illegal items. Students are expected to use their assigned lockers for the duration of the school year. The school will not be held responsible for missing property and will not investigate missing items stolen from a locker. Money or valuable property should not be kept in lockers and never share locker combinations with others. Lockers that are not functioning properly need to be reported to the office staff/custodian. School officials may periodically inspect student lockers. Note: The replacement cost for a lock is $15.

BACKPACKS/BOOK BAGS

Backpacks or book bags are to be left in lockers during the course of the school day.  Backpacks are not to be carried to and from class.

PERSONAL PROPERTY RESPONSIBILITY

Students are solely responsible for their personal property including book bags, clothing, electronic devices and musical instruments. Small personal belongings of value should be kept in your locker and not in your desk. Large items should be left in classrooms or other areas designated by the teacher or staff member. Personal property should NEVER be left unattended or in rooms where there is no adult present.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and found items can be located in the hallway outside the cafeteria or in the main office. Students who find articles not belonging to them are asked to bring them to the office to be claimed by the owner. Students are encouraged to label all personal items for easy identification. Unclaimed items are periodically donated to charity. Since the school is not responsible for articles lost or stolen, precautions should be taken to protect valuables. Any student who brings a large amount of money to school should deposit the money at the office in the morning and pick it up at the end of the day.

FUNDRAISING

Selling of fundraising items to students and staff during the school day will not be permitted. In advance, the school administration must clear all fundraising proposals.

CAFETERIA

The cafeteria serves lunches daily unless noted on the school calendar. Students may also bring lunch and eat it in the cafeteria. DYMS observes a fluid lunch schedule. Students can remain in the cafeteria, or go to another designated area within the school with permission of the supervising staff member.  Food will not be permitted outdoors. Students are expected to pick up around the area in which they eat and take their tray to the designated location.  

Students must select a seat in the cafeteria and stay in it. Seating is limited to the number of stools available at the table. Permission must be obtained from a cafeteria monitor to leave the cafeteria (bathroom, nurse, office). Students must use conversational voices, appropriate table manners, and utensils. Students are required to clear their trash after lunch. Students are not permitted to leave the cafeteria without permission and a pass.

Students are not permitted to leave the cafeteria without permission from the teacher and a pass.

• Walk and talk- walking,
• Hands to yourself
• Respect of the landscape (no pulling on the plants, throwing rocks)

Grab and go breakfast and hot and cold lunch programs are offered daily. Menus are published monthly so that students may plan their daily lunch choices. Participation in the breakfast and lunch programs is encouraged. Breakfast and lunch is free for all students, Students may qualify for free meals or reduced price meals. This information is used by the district for qualifying purposes. 

BEVERAGES/SNACKS

Eating snacks in moderation is permitted throughout the day. We ask that water be the only beverage that students consume during class time. Note: Soda, caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and iced coffee, caffeinated sports or energy drinks, are not allowed during regular school hours.

GUM AND CANDY

Careless disposal of gum in drinking fountains, furniture and floors presents sanitation and cleaning problems and sometimes costly repair. Gum is especially detrimental to our floors and computer keyboards. For this reason, gum chewing is prohibited at school. If students are not able to follow the expectations of these rules, they will be subject to disciplinary action.

BICYCLES, SCOOTERS, SKATEBOARDS

Students who ride bicycles to school are recommended to wear helmets and should use extreme caution in all traffic areas. Bicycles must be parked at the bicycle racks along the white, front fence and should be locked. After securing bicycles at the bicycle racks, students must report to the cafeteria or auditorium. Roller blades are not allowed in the building.

ASSEMBLIES

Assemblies are held throughout the school year and provide opportunities for both entertainment and enrichment. Courteous attention and appropriate applause are expected at all assemblies including concerts, guest speakers, movies, and dramatic presentations. Our assemblies provide the opportunity to come together as a grade or school communities to listen, watch, learn, share and grow.

 MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

Prescription medication administered at school must be delivered to the health office by a parent or guardian in a pharmacy-labeled container.  It will be stored in a locked cabinet. These medications require a written medication order by the prescribing physician and written parent’s permission.  Do not send medication to school with your child. Asthma inhalers and EPi-pens may be carried by your child with the authorization and approval of the prescribing physician and school nurse. Please ensure that prescription labels with the child’s name are attached to the inhaler or EPi-pen. Students are not to carry any form of medication unless authorized by Nurse Williams. Over–the–counter medications such (Tylenol, Ibuprofen) may be administered to your child as needed when the completed permission form is on file with the nurse.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS

Massachusetts State Law requires all students entering Grade 7 to have had a recent physical examination and supply documentation to the Health Office. All students are encouraged to have annual physical exams with their private physician and to submit a copy of the exam records to the Health.

IMMUNIZATIONS

Up-to-date immunization records are required for all students unless there is a written medical or religious exemption on file. Families of students in Grade 6 will receive written notices regarding the state-mandated immunization requirements for entrance to Grade 7.

HEALTH SCREENINGS AND RESOURCES

Other health promotion programs available through the Health Office include vision, hearing and scoliosis screening. The nurse is also available to assist parents with community resources pertaining to health care and insurance.

ALLERGIES

DYMS makes specific accommodations to protect students with life-threatening food allergies. We appreciate your cooperation in creating a healthy and safe learning environment for all children. We recommend that students with life-threatening allergies have an “Allergy Action Plan” formulated in consultation with their MD, the school nurse and parent(s). Allergic students are to keep a dose of their prescribed epi-pen at school and are allowed to carry their own epi-pens with proper documentation and medical orders. A table is designated in the cafeteria for students in need of a nut-free eating area. Hand wipes are provided in the cafeteria for all students who eat nut products; proper hand washing is essential to health and good hygiene.

As many students, staff and faculty members suffer from allergies, it is advisable that perfumes, colognes, fragrant lotions, body sprays or balloons should not be brought to school.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXCUSAL POLICY

All students are required  to participate in Physical Education classes. If a situation exists where a student needs to be excused from participation, the following procedures apply:

• One or two day excusals - A parental/guardian note must be given to the Physical Education teacher. 
• Three to five day excusals - A parental/guardian note must be submitted to the school nurse. 
• Six or more excusals - A doctor’s note must be submitted to the school nurse.

FIRE/DRILL & ALARMS

When the fire alarm sounds, all students will proceed quickly and orderly out of the classroom and exit the school through the designated exit door. Once outside all students will move to a designated area specified by their teachers. Teachers will take attendance of their class and report any missing student to the Administration. Classes will remain with their teacher and will re-enter the building when the all clear signal has been given. Fire drills will be practiced periodically throughout the school year.

CRITICAL INCIDENT/LOCK DOWN

Should there be a situation, such as a medical or safety situation inside or outside the building that may pose a health or safety concern to students and/or staff, a Lockdown procedure for all staff and students will be initiated. The approved verbal signal will be given and staff will guide students to safe areas. Students will remain in the safe areas until the appropriate signal is given. This procedure will be practiced periodically during the school year

STAY IN PLACE

A Stay in Place is utilized when students and staff are to remain in their current location and avoid using hallways and bathrooms. When a Stay in Place is announced, students and staff in the hallways should return to their classroom and teachers should shut the classroom door. Teaching can continue to take place during this designation; however, students are to remain in the classroom until the signal that the stay in place is over.

SCHOOL SEARCHES

Any search and seizure will be conducted solely for the safety and well-being of the students and adults at Dennis- Yarmouth Middle School. The U.S. Supreme Court standard for all searches is as follows:

In order for a principal/assistant principal to conduct a search of a student’s person, his or her locker or possessions, there must be a reasonable suspicion that the student has violated the laws of the school concerning stolen property.

Students’ lockers, one’s personal belongings and vehicles are subject to search if the administration has reasonable suspicion to believe that contraband, illegal material or stolen goods are present

 

School Calendar 26/27 

 

THE DOLPHIN WAY

Be Respectful

Be Responsible

Be Resourceful

PBIS (positive  behavioral interventions and supports) is a system approach to preventing and responding to classroom and school discipline issues. Our focus is on being respectful, responsible, and resourceful.

• Respectful-  Being respectful is when you understand someone else's perspective and behave appropriately when interacting with other people. Being respectful means showing that you value other people's opinions, time, and space.
• Responsible- Being responsible is when you are taking care of something or someone, and being trusted to do what is right.  
• Resourceful-Being resourceful is when you realize that learning is not something that just happens to you. Resourcefulness is being able to overcome problems, create solutions, and take responsibility for your own learning.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

Communication among all members of the DYMS community is essential in implementing the Code of Conduct, keeping our school safe for all students, and helping students assume their responsibilities as DYMS citizens. All students and parents are encouraged to bring any violations of rules and regulations to the attention of a teacher, counselor or administration. In addition, all school staff are obligated to report violations of rules and regulations to the school administration. Teachers and administrators will contact specific students and parents/guardians when school expectations and standards of conduct are not being maintained.

Any student involved in a disciplinary action is entitled to due process. This is to express their position on the incident  leading to disciplinary action and an explanation for any actions taken.  Appeals of decisions made by the school administration in accordance with this Code of Conduct can be made to the Superintendent.

CONDUCT STANDARDS AND GOALS

We set a clearly-defined standard of respectful behavior within the Dennis Yarmouth Middle School community that promotes a safe and productive learning and teaching environment. All members of our community have a responsibility to conduct themselves in a way that demonstrates respect for all individuals, their rights, and their property. We are committed to the following objectives:

• To promote mutual respect among students, faculty, administration and parents through the display of appropriate language, attitude and physical behavior. 
• To maintain a safe and secure learning environment where all students have the opportunity to reach their potential. 
• To promote each student’s self-knowledge, self-discipline and self-reliance. 

• To recognize and value individual differences. 

• To recognize that the management of student behavior is the collective responsibility of students, staff/faculty, administrators and parents. 

• To maintain open lines of communication between school and home in a positive and consistent manner while recognizing the individual needs of students. 

ROLE OF THE STUDENT

Every student has the right to learn in a safe environment. Every student is responsible for knowing, understanding and abiding by the school rules. All rules and regulations apply within the building, on school property and in school vehicles. Rules are in effect during all curricular, extra-curricular and special activities sponsored by the school both on and off school property.

ROLE OF THE FACULTY/STAFF

Educators must set and communicate clear expectations for student behavior and model these expectations. The establishment of class rules and management of classroom behavior is the responsibility of each teacher. Individual teachers may vary in their approaches to teaching and discipline. Nevertheless, every faculty/staff member is responsible for knowing the significance of the Dennis Yarmouth Middle School Code of Conduct, and enforcing it consistently throughout the school year.

ROLE OF ADMINISTRATION

The administration interprets the disciplinary code and applies it in a manner consistent with its goals and intent. The administration is responsible for explaining the nature of their decisions and for allowing students and parents the opportunity for due process. They cooperate with police and fire departments in investigation of possible violations of state laws and town ordinances. The school, at its discretion, may randomly employ trained canines to assist in a search of the building, classrooms and school grounds for illegal substances to ensure safety and order in school.
 

ROLE OF THE PARENT/GUARDIAN

Parents/guardians have the right to know their children are safe in school. Parents/guardians should be familiar with the Dennis Yarmouth Middle School Code of Conduct and share the responsibility for helping students meet our academic and behavioral standards.
 

As a parent or guardian you can help your child obey the rules and keep the school safe by: 

• Reviewing the school handbook with your child
• Preparing your child to take responsibility for attending school and for his or her own behavior 
• Fostering your child's positive attitudes toward him or herself, others, the school and the community 
• Communicating with school staff regarding your child 
• Attending individual or group conferences/meetings 
• Recognizing that the school staff has the right to enforce the policies of the DY School Committee 
• Behaving in a civil and non-disruptive manner when visiting the school 
• Being sure your child brings to school only those things that are appropriate for a school setting 

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR CODE

• Students should enter the room in an orderly manner and be in their seats, quiet and ready to work prior to the tardy bell. 
• Students will be prepared for class and responsible for taking the required books, supplies, assignment papers, Ipads etc. to each of their classes. 
• Students are to show good manners, courtesy and respect for all school personnel and other students. 
• Students cannot disrupt class with projectiles 
• Students are not to mark or write on or deface school property. 
• Students must be granted permission from the teacher and issued a signed pass before leaving the classroom during the class period. 
• Students are to be dismissed by the teacher in an orderly manner and are not dismissed by the bell. 
• Students are to be attentive and good listeners, attempt assignments, and work with a minimum of visiting, talking or disturbing  other students. 
• Students should raise their hands for recognition and permission to speak. 
• Students are to know and obey the class standards, procedures and rules as determined by each particular teacher, as they relate to sharpening pencils, getting drinks of water, collection and distribution of papers, books, etc. 

CARE OF BUILDING AND PROPERTY

Everyone at Dennis Yarmouth Middle School should take pride in the appearance of our school. Theft and vandalism of school property are extremely serious, not only violations of our school’s Code of Conduct, but against the law. Students found stealing, damaging or defacing school or personal property will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension and held responsible for the costs of repairs or replacement. Each case will be handled on an individual basis. All incidents can be reported to the Police Department.

HALLWAY PASSES

Students are not to be in the hallway after classes begin without a completed E-Hall and universal classroom pass. Students should present their passes to any teacher or administrator they meet in the hall without being asked. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary consequences.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE

1. Warning

If an administrator/staff member provides verbal or written warning, this indicates that student behavior is inappropriate and that continuation of this behavior may result in serious consequences.

2. Teacher Detention

Every effort is made to help students adhere to the academic and behavioral expectations. Many matters can be effectively resolved with verbal warnings. However, if behaviors persist or rules are broken, teacher detentions will be assigned. Students will have 24 hour notice and will report to the assigning teacher’s classroom at 2:50, unless otherwise specified.

3. Office Detention/Lunch Detention

Office detentions are assigned by administrators for not following classroom or school rules. Detentions take priority over all other activities. Office detentions are scheduled on Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:50-3:50. Students who are tardy reporting to detention will receive an additional detention.

4. Classroom Removal/Administrative Action

Unacceptable classroom behavior will be handled in a variety of ways including verbal warnings, conferences, detention, DYM alternative remedy program and referral to the office for discipline.

5. Suspension

In order to ensure the safety, rights and security of the total school population, an administrator has the right given by state statutes, local ordinances, and school policies, to suspend a student at any time for serious offenses. Suspended students are ineligible to participate in any school-sponsored activities until re-admitted from the suspension. An administrator will determine if a student who has been suspended is eligible to participate in field trips.

CODE OF CONDUCT 

All students are reminded of their responsibility to treat one another respectfully. All must be aware and respectful of each other’s rights. If a teacher is unable to correct student misbehavior with the help of parents, and counselors, the teacher shall refer the student to the assistant principal. The Code of Conduct will be administered by the assistant principal. 

These rules and regulations may be supplemented by teachers’ rules for individual classes. The academic success and the safety of students are contingent upon students maintaining appropriate and responsible behavior. 

The Code of Conduct is based on a system of progressive discipline.  This means that an administrator has the discretion to significantly increase penalties in the cases beyond the first offense.  In determining the severity of the penalty or suspension, the appropriate administrator may consider all relevant facts, including but not limited to: 1) previous disciplinary record, 2) severity of disruption to the educational process, 3) degree of danger to self and/or others, 4) the degree to which the student is willing to change his/her inappropriate behavior.  The Code of Conduct has been divided into five groups.  Each group contains a range of consequences for the infractions as follows but is not limited as such.  The principal may increase or decrease the consequences, assigned by the assistant principal.  NOTE:  A student absent from school on the day of a scheduled office detention or DYM alternative remedy must serve the detention or remedy on the day they return to school.

GROUP I – Teacher Detentions(s) 

1. Use of electronic devices without permission/misuse or violation of technology policies 
2. Skipping class 
3. Leaving class without permission 
4. Tardy to class
5. Disruptive or disrespectful behavior or language
6. Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action that are in violation of school policy 

GROUP II - Consequences of office detention(s) or possible DYM Alternative Remedy 

1. Repeated violation of Group I offenses 
2. Leaving school without permission/truancy 
3. Forging notes/signatures 
4. Violation of dress code policy (see pg. 28) 
5. Skipping teacher detentions
6. Vandalism 
7. Cheating/plagiarism: Immediate disciplinary action will be imposed on any student discovered cheating during a quiz, test or final exam. Cheating also consists of copying another student’s written work or of giving another student your work. Plagiarism is another form of cheating and occurs when you submit someone’s ideas or writings as if they were your own. In the case of an assignment whose grade consists of multiple components, no credit will be given for the component(s) where plagiarism occurs. There will be no possibility of make-up for an assignment that has been found to contain plagiarism. 

• Any student guilty of cheating or plagiarism will receive an automatic grade of zero for that assignment, without recourse to a make-up grade. 
• The teacher will notify the student’s parents of a cheating or plagiarism incident. 
• The student will be referred to the main office. 

8. Disrupting of Office Detention
9. Being found in an unauthorized area of the building/Loitering (see pg. 30) 

GROUP III – Consequences of DYM Alternative Remedy or Out of School Suspension(s): Up to three days to be determined by the severity of the offense. 

1. Repeat violation of Group I or II Offense 

2. Insubordination 

3. Excessive disrespect/insolence 

4. Misuse of property 

5. Dangerous/reckless behavior. 

6. Repeated violations of school policies. 

7. Excessive disruptive behavior 

8. Accessory to or inciting a physical conflict 

9. Fighting/Physical conflict 

10. Stealing/Possession of stolen property 

GROUP IV – Consequences of DYM Alternative Remedy  or Out of School Suspension(s): Up to five days determined by the severity of the offense. Possible police involvement. 

1. Repeat violations of Group III offense. 

2. Verbal assault/intimidation 

3.   Sexual Harassment (see section on Sexual Harassment) (School Committee Policy) 

4. Harassment (see section on Harassment) (School Committee Policy) 

5. Possession of drug-related materials and/or paraphernalia 

6. Excessive violation of Technology Policy 

7. Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action.

GROUP V - Consequences of five to ten days of Out of School Suspension: Number of days to be determined by the severity of the offense.  Possible police involvement.

1. Repeat violation of Group IV offense. 

2. Drug or Alcohol Violations - refer to the district’s Drug and Alcohol Policy. 

3. Weapons violations (including fireworks) - refer to the district’s Weapons Policy. 

4. Willful Acts against the School – serious acts of disruption or harm directed toward the school and persons. 

5. Violation of the Safe School Act of 1994 - (see section on Safe School Act) 

6. Violation of Provisions in the Education Reform Act of 1993 - (see district’s Weapons Policy, and Education Reform Act of 1993) 

7. Violation of School Safety Policy - (see section on School Safety Policy) 

8. Other egregious behaviors requiring disciplinary action. (To be specified on referral form)

Students who are suspended may not come on to school property during their suspension, except for purposes of hearings or counseling. When a student presents an immediate threat to staff, students, himself/herself or clearly endangers the school environment, the suspension will be effective immediately. If a student is suspended, the office will attempt to notify the parents by telephone. A disciplinary form will be issued to inform the parents of the reason for the suspension and the length of the suspension.

A parent conference will be necessary to re-admit the student to the school after the suspension. The parent must call to set up an appointment for the re-entry. The student will not be admitted to class without this re-entry meeting. In addition, the student will not be admitted to class if the administrator determines at this re-entry meeting that the student is not ready to attend school and follow school rules.

Discipline Guidelines 25/26

INCIDENT INVESTIGATIONS

When incidents are reported to administration an incident investigation is initiated.  The goal is to work collaboratively with all members involved to result in the most positive outcomes attainable.  Every effort is made to remain fair and impartial, maintain confidentiality, follow due process, be within legal compliance, and prioritize the safety and well-being of all.   

1. Administration receives a report or an incident occurs:  
   1. Administration interviews students, families, staff and/or other individuals to collect initial information and evidence.  
2. Administration will assess the information and determine whether further action is required.  
3. If further action is required, the Administration will:  
   1. Ask students, families, staff and/or other individuals to complete Incident Report Forms detailing all information regarding the event.  
   2. Review any evidence, including, but not limited to, physical and digital evidence, such as documents, emails, tests, or social media posts, camera footage.  
4. Depending upon the report or the incident, a search may be conducted of the student and their belongings.
   1. Searches are completed by two members of the Administration using a metal detecting wand on the student.  
   2. Searches also may include bags, backpacks, clothing, cars, lockers, and other items or possessions as necessary utilizing the wand and the Administrator.    
   3. If the incident is deemed unsafe, Student Resource Officer involvement may become necessary. 
5. Depending upon the report or the incident, a student may be required to see the School Nurse for an evaluation:  
   1. If a student appears under the influence of any substance, has been in a physical altercation or is injured.  
   2. The School Nurse will perform routine examinations and evaluations to report to the Administration.   
6. While the incident is under investigation students may be removed from the traditional educational setting and relocated to the Main Office or Room 508.  
7. A conclusion will be reached based on the evidence, determining whether the allegations are substantiated or not.  
   1. Further disciplinary action may be taken. 
   2. Further support and/or preventative measures may be implemented.  
8. Administration documents the incident, including, the findings, conclusions, and any recommendations for next steps.    
9. The Administration at Dennis-Yarmouth High School will make every effort to notify the Family of investigations.  
   1. Families will be notified of any disciplinary measures that are after school hours, or resulting in an In School or Out of School Suspension.  

BULLYING PREVENTION & INTERVENTION 

Link to School Committee Policy

Bullying of any type has no place in a school setting. The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will endeavor to maintain a learning and working environment free of bullying.

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District School Committee Policy

BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District is committed to providing a safe, positive and productive educational environment where students can achieve the highest academic standards. It is committed to maintaining a school environment where all students regardless of legal status are free from bullying and cyberbullying and the effects thereof. No student shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying. 

Acts of bullying and cyberbullying are prohibited: 

1. On school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, at a school sponsored or school related activity, function or program whether on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased or used by a school district or school, or through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by a school district; and 

2. At a location, activity, at a function or program that is not school related, or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by a school district or school, if the acts create a hostile environment at school for the victim, infringes on their rights at school or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. 

Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, who provides information during an investigation of bullying, or who witnesses or has reliable information about bullying shall be prohibited. 

As stated in M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O, nothing in this Plan requires the district or school to staff any non-school related activities, functions or programs. 

I. Definitions 

Aggressor, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370, is a  student or a member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional who engages in bullying or retaliation. 

B. Bullying, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370, is the repeated use by one or more students or by a member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: 

1. Causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damages the victim’s property; 

2. Places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or damage to his property;

3. Creates a hostile environment at school for the victim;

4. Infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or

5. Materially and substantially disrupts the education process or orderly operation of 

    a school.

Bullying includes cyberbullying. It may include conduct such as physical intimidation or assault, including: intimidating an individual into taking an action against his/her will, oral or written threats, teasing, putdowns, name calling, stalking, threatening looks, gestures, or actions, cruel rumors, false accusations, and social isolation. 

C. Cvberbullying, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370 is bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system; including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. 

Cyberbullying shall also include: 

1. The creations of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person; 

2. The knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (Bl) to (B5), inclusive, of the definition of bullying; and 

3. The distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (Bl) to (B5) inclusive, of the definition of bullying. 

D. Hostile Environment, as defined in M.G.L. c.71, § 370, is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule, or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive so as to alter the conditions of the student’s education. 

E. Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a person who reports bullying, who provides information during an investigation of bullying, or who witnesses or has reliable information about bullying. 

F. School Staff includes, but is not limited to, educators, administrators, counselors, school nurses, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, athletic coaches, advisors to extracurricular activities, support staff, or paraprofessionals.

G. Victim is a student against whom bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation has been perpetrated. 

H. Perpetrator, a student or a member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional who engages in bullying or retaliation. 

II. Bullying and Retaliation Are Prohibited and Will Lead to Discipline 

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District absolutely prohibits bullying, cyberbullying and retaliation as defined above. Students who engage in bullying or retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action. However, disciplinary action taken must balance the need for accountability with the need to teach appropriate behavior. The range of disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: verbal warnings, written warnings, reprimands, detentions, short-term or long-term suspensions, or expulsions from school as determined by the school administration and/or school committee, subject to applicable procedural requirements. Nothing in this policy is intended to prevent the school administration and/or school committee from taking disciplinary action against a student for conduct that does not meet the definition of bullying or cyberbullying, as defined above, but nevertheless is inappropriate for the school environment. 

If the principal or designee determines that a student knowingly made a false allegation of bullying or retaliation, that student may be subject to disciplinary action. 

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District recognizes that certain students may be more vulnerable to becoming a victim of bullying or harassment based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status, gender identity or expression, physical appearance, pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation, mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have 1 more of these characteristics. The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will take specific steps to create a safe, supportive environment for vulnerable populations in the school community, and provides all students with skills, knowledge, and strategies to prevent or respond to bullying, harassment or teasing. The sections below describe how the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will support these students. 

Students with disabilities. As required by M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3, as amended by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010, when the Individual Education Plan (IEP) Team determines the student has a disability that affects social skills development or the student may participate in or is vulnerable to bullying, harassment, or teasing because of his/her disability, the IEP shall address the skills and proficiencies needed to avoid and respond to bullying, harassment, or teasing. 

III. Reporting Obligations 

Each school will make a variety of reporting resources available to the school community which may include, but are not limited to, a web-based reporting tool, a voicemail box, a dedicated mailing address, and/or an email address. The school will communicate the availability of these tools and the policies for reporting when they are established and then at the beginning of each school year thereafter and will be included in student handbooks and on the district and school web sites. This information will also be provided in other prevalent languages other than English used by families in the school district. Parents or guardians, and others may request assistance from a staff member to complete a written report. Students will be provided practical, safe, private and age-appropriate ways to report and discuss an incident of bullying with a staff member, or with the principal or designee. 

A. Reporting by Staff: A member of school staff, including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, secretary, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional, shall immediately report any instance of bullying or retaliations s/he witnesses or becomes aware of to the school principal or designee. The requirement to report as provided does not limit the authority of a staff member to respond to behavioral or disciplinary incidents consistent with school or district policies and procedures for behavior management and discipline. 

B. Reporting by Students, Parents/Guardians, and Others: The District expects students, parents/guardian, and others who witness or become aware of an instance of bullying or retaliation involving a student to report it to the school principal or designee. An individual may make an anonymous report of bullying or retaliation, however, no disciplinary action may be taken against an alleged aggressor solely on the basis of an anonymous report. An individual who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation shall be subject to disciplinary action. 

C. Reporting to Parents/Guardians: Upon determining that bullying or retaliation has occurred, the principal or designee will notify the parent/guardian of the victim and of the aggressor of this finding and of the school’s procedures for responding to it. There may be circumstances in which the principal contacts parents or guardians prior to any investigation. 

D. Reporting to Local Law Enforcement: At any point after receipt of a report of bullying or retaliation, or during or after an investigation, if the school Principal or designee has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor, the school principal or designee will notify the local law enforcement agency. In addition, if an incident of bullying or retaliation occurs on school grounds and involves a former student under the age of 21 who is no longer enrolled, the principal or designee will notify local law enforcement if he/she believes that criminal charges may be pursued. In making this determination, the principal, will consistent with the Plan and with applicable school or district policies and procedures, consult with the school resource officer, if any, and other individuals deemed appropriate. The principal must document the reasons for the referral to law enforcement. 

E. Reporting to Administrator of Another School District or School: If an incident of bullying or retaliation involves students from more than one school district, charter school, non-public school, approved private day or residential school or collaborative school and the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District is the first to be informed of the bullying or retaliation, then the Superintendent of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District or designee must, consistent with state and federal law, promptly notify the appropriate administrator of the other school district or school, so both may take appropriate action. 

IV. School Investigation 

The principal or designee, upon receipt of a report, shall promptly contact the parents or guardians of a student who has been the alleged victim or alleged perpetrator of bullying. The actions being taken to prevent further acts of bullying shall be discussed. A principal may not disclose information from a student record of a victim or aggressor to a parent unless the information is about the parent’s own child. 

The school principal or designee shall investigate promptly all reports of bullying or retaliation, using a Bullying/Cyberbullying Report Form, giving consideration to all available information known, including the nature of the allegations and ages of the students involved. 

The investigation shall be completed within fourteen school days from the date of the report. The parents or guardians shall be contacted upon completion of the investigation and informed of the results, including whether the allegations were found to be factual, whether a violation of this policy was found, and whether disciplinary action has or shall be taken. At a minimum the principal or his/her designee shall contact the parents or guardians as to the status of the investigation on a weekly basis. 

Disciplinary actions for students who have committed an act of bullying or retaliation shall be in accordance with district disciplinary policies. 

Each school shall document any incident of bullying that is reported per this policy and a file shall be maintained by the principal or designee. A monthly report shall be provided to the Superintendent with: (i) the number of reported allegations of bullying or retaliation; (ii) the number and nature of substantiated incidents of bullying or retaliation; (iii) the number of students disciplined for engaging in bullying or retaliation; and (iv) any other relevant information. Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will annually report this information to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

The following are general guidelines for responding to a report of bullying or retaliation. The guidelines will be adapted as necessary to respond appropriately to the complaint. 

A. Pre-Investigation: Even before fully investigating allegations of bullying or retaliation, school personnel will consider whether there is a need to take immediate steps to support the alleged victim and/or protect the alleged victim from further potential incidents of concern. In taking any such action, however, the rights of both the alleged victim and alleged aggressor must be considered. 

B. Written statement of the complaint: The investigator will seek to determine the basis of the complaint, gathering information from the complainant, including such matters as: what specifically happened, who committed the alleged acts, who was present or may have information about the events, when the events occurred (date, time of day), and where the events occurred.

If age appropriate, the complainant may be asked to put the complaint in writing and to sign and date it. If the complainant cannot or chooses not to write a complaint, the investigator will record the allegations, read them to the complainant to confirm accuracy, and ask the complainant to sign the document. If the complainant cannot or chooses not to sign, the investigator may sign and date the document her/himself. 

C. Interviews: Once the allegations of the complainant are established, the investigator will gather other evidence, which often involves interviews of the alleged aggressor and/or other witnesses. The investigator should remind the alleged aggressor and witnesses to be truthful and that retaliation against persons whom they believe might have reported the incidents or cooperated with the investigation is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action. 

D. Confidentiality: The confidentiality of the complainant and the other witnesses will be maintained, to the extent practicable, given the school’s obligation to investigate and address the matter. 

V. School Determination 

School personnel must weigh all of the evidence objectively to determine whether the alleged events occurred and, if they did, whether the events constitute bullying or retaliation. The determination must be based upon all of the facts and circumstances and the perspective of a reasonable person. 

If bullying or retaliation is substantiated, the school will take steps reasonably calculated to prevent recurrence and ensure that the victim is not restricted in participating in school or in benefiting from school activities. The principal or designee will: 1) determine what remedial action is required, if any; 2) determine what responsive actions and/or disciplinary action is necessary; 3) notify law enforcement if the principal or designee believes that criminal charges may be pursued; 4) notify the parents or guardians of the perpetrator; and 5) notify the parents or guardians of the victim. As with the investigation, the response will be individually tailored to all of the circumstances, including the nature of the conduct and the age of the students involved. In addition to taking disciplinary action, the following are examples of steps that may be taken to prevent the recurrence of bullying or retaliation: 

• Hold parent conferences; 

• Transfer a student’s classroom or school; 

• Limit or deny student access to a part, or area, of a school; 

• Enhance adult supervision on school premises; 

• Exclude a student from participation in school-sponsored or school-related functions, after-school programs, and/or extracurricular activities; 

• Provide relevant educational activities for individual students or groups of students;

• Create a Personalized Action Plan and directives for future conduct, including providing the victim with a process for reporting any concerns about future conduct immediately; 

• Arrange for communication between the parties, if appropriate, to assist them in resolving issues which have arisen between them. (Such an approach will be used cautiously since communication can sometimes exacerbate, rather than alleviate, the victim’s concerns and since the conduct often involves an imbalance of power); and 

• Provide school counseling (or other appropriate services) or referral to such services for the victim and/or the aggressor and/or for appropriate family members of said students. 

Depending upon the circumstances, the principal or designee may choose to consult with the students’ teacher(s) and/or school counselor, and the victim’s or student aggressor’s parents or guardians, to identify any underlying social or emotional issues that may have contributed to the bullying behavior and to assess the level of need for additional social skills development. 

The principal or designee will inform the parent or guardian of the victim about the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s problem resolution system and the process for accessing that system, regardless of the outcome of the bullying determination. 

If the principal or designee decides that disciplinary action is appropriate, the disciplinary action will be determined on the basis of facts found by the principal or designee, including the nature of the conduct, the age of the student(s) involved, and the need to balance accountability with the teaching of appropriate behavior. 

Discipline procedures for students with disabilities are governed by the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), which should be read in cooperation with state laws regarding student discipline. 

VI. Restoring Safety to Victim 

Before fully investigating the allegations of bullying or retaliation, the principal or designee will take steps to assess the need to restore a sense of safety to the alleged victim and/or to protect the alleged victim from possible further incidents. Responses to promote safety may include, but not be limited to, creating a personal safety plan; pre-determining seating arrangements for the victim and/or the aggressor in the classroom, at lunch, or on the bus; identifying a staff member who will act as a “safe person” for the victim; and altering the aggressor’s schedule and access to the victim. The principal or designee will take additional steps to promote safety during the course of and after the investigation, as necessary. 

The principal or designee will implement appropriate strategies for protecting from bullying or retaliation a student who has reported bullying or retaliation, a student who has witnessed bullying or retaliation, a student who provides information during an investigation, or a student who has reliable information about a reported act of bullying or retaliation. Those steps include, but are not limited to, check-ins with witnesses, identifying a staff member to report any retaliation or bullying and notifying individuals of their right to be free from bullying or retaliation.

VII. Closing the Complaint and Possible Follow-Up 

If a complaint is substantiated, school staff will promptly provide notice to the parent/guardian of the victim and the aggressor in the primary language of the home. Notice will indicate what action is being taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation. Specific information about disciplinary action taken generally will not be released to the victim’s parents, or guardians - unless it involves a “stay away” or other directive that the victim must be aware of in order to report violations. 

Within a reasonable time period following closure of the complaint, the administrative staff or designee will contact the victim to determine whether there has been any recurrence of the prohibited conduct and whether additional supportive measures are needed. If so, the principal or designee will work with appropriate school staff to implement them immediately. 

The District will retain a report of the complaint, containing the name of the complainant, the date of the complaint, investigator, school, a brief statement of the nature of the complaint, the outcome of the investigation, and the action taken. 

VIII. Ongoing Efforts to Reduce Bullying 

A. Professional development will be provided for all staff annually, including, but not limited to: 

a. Inclusion of the District Bullying Prevention and Intervention Policy in staff handbooks; 

b. Developmentally appropriate strategies to prevent or stop bullying incidents; 

c. Information regarding the complex interaction and power differential between and among a perpetrator, victim, and witnesses to the bullying; 

d. Research findings, including information on vulnerable or at-risk populations of students; 

e. Internet safety as it relates to cyberbullying; 

f. Information on the incidence and nature of cyberbullying; and 

g. Developmentally appropriate strategies for immediate, effective interventions to stop bullying incidents. 

Staff members hired after the start of the school year are required to participate in school-based training during the school year in which they are hired, unless they can demonstrate participation in an acceptable comparable program within the last two years. 

B. Annually the District will inform parents and guardians in the languages which are most prevalent among the students, parents or guardians about bullying prevention and intervention strategies and policy through a variety of communication tools, including, but not limited student-parent handbooks. The goal will be to assist parents and guardians in understanding 

• The District/School curriculum; 

• How to reinforce prevention and intervention strategies at home; 

• Bullying dynamics; and 

• Online safety and cyberbullying. 

C. Annually students will be educated about bullying prevention and intervention through the use of scientifically based research tools and through efforts to relate anti-bullying to other school initiatives that create a positive school climate. 

Age-appropriate, evidence-based instruction on bullying prevention shall be incorporated into the curriculum for all K to 12 students. 

D. Publication and Notice 

Annual written notice of the relevant sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be provided to students and their parents or guardians, in age-appropriate terms. 

Annual written notice of the bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be provided to all school staff. The faculty and staff at each school shall be trained annually on the bullying prevention and intervention plan applicable to the school. 

Relevant sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan relating to the duties of faculty and staff shall be included in the school employee handbook. 

The bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be posted on the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District website: DY Bullying Prevention Intervention link

E. Prevention and Intervention Plan 

The Superintendent and/or his/her designee shall oversee the development of a prevention and intervention plan, in consultation with all district stakeholders, which may include teachers, school staff, professional support personnel, school volunteers, administrators, community representatives, local law enforcement agencies, students, parents and guardians, consistent with the requirements of this policy, as well as state and federal laws. The bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be reviewed and updated at least biennially. 

The Principal is responsible for the implementation and oversight of the bullying prevention and implementation plan within his or her school.  

Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District will administer a survey at least once every 4 years to assess school climate and the prevalence, nature and severity of bullying in schools. The survey will be designed to protect student privacy and allow for anonymous participation by students. The principals will verify completion of the student surveys and all completed surveys will be sent to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. 

IX. Problem Resolution System 

Any parent wishing to file a claim/concern or seeking assistance outside of the district may do so with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Program Resolution System (PRS). That information can be found at: http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa, emails can be sent to compliance@doe.mass.edu or individuals can call 781-338-3700. Hard copies of this information are available at the Superintendent’s office. 

X. Relationship to Other Laws 

Consistent with state and federal laws, and the policies of the school or district, no individuals shall be discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town or in obtaining the advantages, privilege and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, academic status, gender identity or expression, physical appearance, sexual orientation, or mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability, or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics. Nothing in the Plan prevents the school or district from taking action to remediate discrimination or harassment based on a person’s membership in a legally protected category under local, state or federal law, or school or district policies. 

In addition, nothing in the Plan is designed or intended to limit the authority of the school or district to take disciplinary or other action under M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 37H or 37H ½, M.G.L. c. 71 §§41 and 42, M.G.L. c. 76, § 5, or other applicable laws, or local school or district policies, or collective bargaining agreements, in response to violent, harmful, or disruptive behavior, regardless of whether the Plan covers the behavior. 

Adopted: November 16, 2015 

Reviewed and Adopted with Revisions: August 13, 2018

 

HARASSMENT GUIDELINES

Link to School Committee Policy

Harassment of students by other students, employees, vendors and other third parties will not be tolerated in the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District. The alleged harassment must involve conduct that occurred within the school's own program or activity, such as whether the harassment occurred at a location or under circumstances where the school owned, or substantially controlled the premises, exercised oversight, supervision or discipline over the location or participants, or funded, sponsored, promoted or endorsed the event where the alleged harassment occurred, against a person in the United States.  This policy is in effect while students are on school grounds, School District property or property within the jurisdiction of the School District, school buses, or attending or engaging in school sponsored activities.

Harassment prohibited by the District includes, but is not limited to, harassment on the basis race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic  information, active military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, or pregnancy-related condition, homelessness, ancestry, ethnic background, national origin, or any other category protected by state or federal law. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion pursuant to disciplinary codes. Employees who have been found to violate this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment, subject to contractual disciplinary obligations.

Employee-to-Student Harassment means conduct of a written, verbal or physical nature that is designed to embarrass distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students when:

•  Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student's education or of a student's participation in school programs or activities; or
•  Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions affecting the student.

Student- to-Student Harassment means conduct of a written, verbal, or physical nature that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble students, when:

•  Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating or hostile learning environment.

Harassment as described above may include, but is not limited to:

•  Written, verbal, or physical (including texting, blogging, or other technological methods) harassment or abuse;
•  Repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
•  Implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, or other school matter.
•  Demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.

By law, what constitutes harassment is determined from the perspective of a reasonable person with the characteristic on which the harassment is based. Individuals should consider how their words and actions might reasonably be viewed by others.

The District will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment through designation of Title IX Coordinator or building based employees, who may include principals or their designees. The superintendent will recommend, in consultation with the principals, opportunities to the designated recipients for appropriate training.  Where it is determined that discrimination or harassment has occurred, the District will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and will impose developmentally appropriate disciplinary, restorative and/or corrective action.

The District will respond promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of sexual harassment through designation of the Title IX Coordinator or building based employees to any reports or complaints of discrimination, including harassment and retaliation, or other violations of civil rights, pursuant to our detailed response protocol. Where it is determined that discrimination or harassment has occurred, the District will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and will impose developmentally- appropriate disciplinary, restorative, and/or corrective action. 

LEGAL REF.:  M.G.L. 151B:3A

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972

BESE 603 CMR 26:00

34 CFR 106.44 (a), (a)-(b)

34 CFR 106.45 (a)-(b) (1)

34 CFR 106.45 (b)(2)-(b)(3,4,5,6,7) as revised through June 2020

CROSS REF.:  AC, Non-Discrimination Policy Including Harassment and Retaliation

SOURCE:  MASC - December 2021

Reviewed and Adopted with Revisions:  April 11, 2022

The OCR office for Massachusetts is located at:

Washington DC (Metro)

Office for Civil Rights

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-1475

Telephone: 202-453-6020  FAX: 202-453-6021; TDD: 800-877-8339 

Email: OCR.DC@ed.gov

LOITERING

Students are not allowed to remain in the school building after the departure of buses unless they are under the direct supervision of a teacher, coach or other staff member. (Students found to be loitering in the building will be instructed to leave the building and school grounds. Parents may be called to the school to pick up students who continue to loiter.) Loitering or being discovered in an unauthorized area may result in social probation.

PHYSICAL VIOLENCE, FIGHTING AND VERBAL INTIMIDATION

Physical violence, verbal intimidation or threats directed toward any member of the school community are not tolerated. Each instance will be treated as a serious disciplinary offense. Students involved in fighting and other forms of physical violence (regardless of who started the altercation) are subject to suspension along with parental notification. The use of abusive, obscene or profane language and/or gestures will be dealt with as a serious breach of conduct.

SMOKING, DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

The possession and/or use of tobacco products, VAPE products, alcohol or other drugs of any kind in school or on school property are forbidden for health and safety reasons. These offenses are considered serious breaches of student behavior.

• Tobacco use of any kind by any individual, including school personnel, is now illegal in school buildings and on school property in Massachusetts according to the Education Reform Act of 1993. 
• Possession of matches, lighters and other paraphernalia is forbidden on school property. 

School authorities recognize a distinct difference between the drug user and seller. School administrators will take any action that is in the best interest of the school and students including suspension/expulsion for an indefinite period. If it is determined that a student demonstrates illicit experimentation with drugs, misuse and/or abuse of drugs or dependence on drugs, the parent will be requested to seek medical attention for the student. According to state law, any student determined to be in possession of, selling or using drugs may be suspended from school indefinitely for the protection of the student body. This suspension is in addition to any action that civil authorities may take.

It is realized that some students may have drug-related problems and are in need of assistance. These students are urged to contact their counselor, principal or some appropriate agency for assistance. Any student determined to be in possession of, selling, or using drugs on school property is subject to the following consequences:

1. Indefinite suspension and administrative review. 
2. The Dennis or Yarmouth Police Department may be notified. 
3. Parents/guardians will be notified. 
4. Upon the student’s return a counselor will contact the student and assist in the reentry back to school. 

5. Further action(s) which are deemed to be in the best interest of the school and/or the student may be taken. 

Students or their guests will be barred from any school-sponsored activity if he/she is determined to have used alcohol and/or drugs prior to or during attendance at the event.

STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES

Safety and security are the primary concerns of DYMS, this includes school bus safety.  The school reserves the right to take whatever action is necessary to maintain a high level of safety. The courts have held that the right of a student to transportation is a qualified right, dependent on appropriate behavior. In those cases where a student seriously or repeatedly misbehaves, the assistant principal or principal will notify the student’s parents. Such behavior may result in temporary removal from the bus for that student. If a student’s behavior seriously endangers other students and/or the driver, the student is subject to immediate and possibly permanent removal from the bus as well as disciplinary action outlined in this handbook.

DRESS CODE

We expect students to take pride in their personal appearance and come to school well groomed. Clothing must be appropriate so that there will be no interference with the educational process. Student dress code is ultimately up to the discretion of the school administration. Should a student be in violation of this dress code, parents will be notified and will be requested to come to school with acceptable clothing replacements or provided with an alternative outfit by the school. Repeated violations will be subject to disciplinary action. The Assistant Principal or Principal will make the final decision in this matter. Children should not come to school in the following:

• Hats, hoods, and other headgear will not be worn in school. 
• Drawings or words related to alcohol, tobacco, sex, weapons or drugs, including references to these areas are not permitted. 
• Obscene and/or profane language or pictures on clothing or jewelry are not permitted. 
• All clothing must cover all undergarments and private body parts.

Student Dress Code

DYMS is committed to following the dress code as outlined in the updated School Committee Policy of January 23, 2023. We seek to have an inclusive, non-discriminatory policy regarding student dress code. We ask that families ensure that the students come to school ready to learn when they leave for school in the morning. 

DRESS AND PROCEDURES FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students in grades 6 and 7 are expected to change into appropriate physical education attire. This includes shorts, T-shirts, socks and sneakers.

Students who have presented a note from a doctor excusing them from participation in physical education classes for medical reasons (e.g., injury, illness) must present a second doctor’s note in order to resume activity.
 

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are considered an educational experience and a privilege. If a pupil has engaged in repeated or continuous misbehavior, he or she may not be permitted to attend the field trip with the class. This is to ensure the safety of all pupils and to provide a worthwhile learning experience. With the exception of an emergency situation, parents will be notified in advance. Students who do not participate in field trips will attend their assigned academic schedule unless otherwise noted. Parents with financial concerns should contact the building principal or assistant principal. 

 

 

ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS, Mrs. Burns, Mr. Hanscom

The assistant principal will work as part of the administrative team to facilitate academic, social and community relationships among staff, students and parents. Particular responsibilities will include oversight of co-curricular activities, attendance, consistent and equitable applications of school disciplinary procedures as well as supervisory duties of staff and observation and evaluations.

SCHOOL COUNSELORS, Mrs. Shaw, Mrs. Phipps, Ms. Ennis

The school counselors provide support and guidance to students in their academic planning, college and career readiness and the cultivation of personal and social skills. The school counselors work collaboratively with the faculty, administration and outside agencies in order to establish best practices for our student population.

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST, Dr. Dwyer

The school psychologist works in conjunction with the administration, teachers, children, parents, and private or public agencies to assist in understanding and dealing with special problems which may arise affecting a student's school experience. Appointments may be arranged by telephone.

SOCIAL WORKER, Mr. Steele

The school social workers provide support for students by working with the school psychologist, staff, parents, students, outside agencies, and with the local court system in assisting students experiencing adjustment problems that affect their school performance. The social workers also run special groups during lunch time or other mutually acceptable times during the school day for students who are experiencing stress in their lives.

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEAM CHAIRPERSON, Dr. Collins

The special education case manager and the special education teachers prepare and then oversee the implementation of individualized education plans for those students meeting state and federal criteria for having a learning disability in a particular academic area. Parents or staff having concerns about the learning progress of a child may express their concerns to the SPED Case Manager and/or the principal.
 

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS, Officer Xiarhos

The Dennis and Yarmouth Police Departments each have a School Resource Officer, who are also members of Project Alliance. Project Alliance is a collaborative effort of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District, Dennis and Yarmouth Police Departments, Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office, Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office, Barnstable and Orleans Juvenile Court Probation Departments to meet on a monthly basis to work together by sharing information and ideas on how to make our schools a safer place in which our children can learn.

SPEECH/LANGUAGE THERAPIST, Ms. Mello

The speech/language therapist provides evaluation and small group therapy sessions for students with significant speech and/or language disabilities. Referrals for speech/language services are made through the SpEd Case Manager.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE  PROGRAM,  Ms. Ellis & Ms. Mead

The Dennis-Yarmouth Regional Schools abide by the Federal Title VI of the Federal Civil Rights Act, NCLB, and M.G.L.c. 71A regarding English language learners. M.G.D. c. 71A, the state law that governs the provision of education to limited English proficient students, now referred to as English learners,” must be provided instruction in sheltered English immersion (SEI) unless they have received a waiver. All limited English proficient students will participate according to the Department of Education’s guidelines. Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act requires English learners to be provided language support until they are proficient enough in English.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

Everyone is capable of learning. Given the many variables that impact learning, it is not surprising that some students may experience difficulty at some point. There are many ways in which students can receive assistance. In accordance with federal and state laws, the DYRSD provides Special Education (MA c.71B or “Chapter 766 and IDEA”) services. To be eligible under these laws, a student must have a disability that interferes with progress in school. In addition, the student requires specialized instruction in order to make progress in school. An educational team, which includes parents, makes decisions about eligibility and programming. An individual educational plan (called an IEP) that may recommend services and accommodations are drafted as a result of this team meeting. Parents seeking more information about Special Education can contact their child’s guidance counselor or the building Team Chairperson.

Special Education faculty members, in conjunction with teaching assistants, deliver academic services in a variety of settings to meet students’ unique needs:

• Supported  instruction within the general education classroom (Inclusion Model – Co-taught Model) 
• Small group instruction in a separate setting (Basic Skills and Additional Individual Support) 
• Self-contained academic programs 

Our Inclusion program allows students to demonstrate understanding of the general curriculum in the least restrictive environment, while promoting self-esteem and peer acceptance of diverse learning styles. Individual modifications, accommodations and specialized instruction within the classroom afford students the chance to maximize their academic potential. Consultations with the special education team chair, school psychologist, guidance counselor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, classroom teachers and parents occur on a regular basis.
 

DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES – STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in this handbook. Federal Law and Regulations require that additional provisions be made for students with disabilities. The principal shall notify the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services and Instruction of the suspendable offense of a student with either an IEP, Section 504 Accommodation Plan or a student suspected of having a disability. School personnel may exclude a student with a disability from school for a disciplinary violation for not more than 10 consecutive days (to the extent those alternatives are applied to students without disabilities) and for additional removals of not more than 10 days in the same school year for separate incidents of misconduct (as long as those removals do not constitute a change in placement) equivalent to discipline imposed on students without disabilities for the same offense. IDEA 2004, section 615 (k) (1) (B). After a child with a disability has been removed from his or her placement for 10 school days in the same year, during any subsequent days of removal, the child must continue to receive services that enable the child to continue to participate in the general education curriculum, although in another setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals set out in the child’s IEP: and the child must receive, as appropriate, a functional behavioral assessment, and behavioral intervention services and modifications that are designed to address the behavior violation so that it not recur. Within 10 school days of any decision to change the placement of a child with a disability because of a violation of a code of student conduct, the district, the parent, and relevant members of the child’s IEP, any teacher observation, and any relevant information provided by the parents to determine if:

• The conduct in question was caused by, or had a direct and substantial relationship to the child’s disability
• The conduct in question was the direct result of the districts failure to implement the IEP

The conduct must be determined to be a manifestation of the child’s disability if the district, the parent and relevant members of the child’s IEP team determine that a condition in either paragraph (i) or (ii) of this section was met. The TEAM will make a finding, a manifestation determination, as to the relationship between the student’s misconduct and his/her disability condition, conduct a functional behavioral assessment if appropriate and modify or amend the IEP to provide special education services during the suspension, or to include a behavioral intervention plan. If the district, the parent and relevant members of the IEP Team make the determination that the conduct was a manifestation of the child’s disability, the IEP team must either:

• Conduct a functional behavioral assessment unless the district had conducted a functional behavioral assessment before the behavior that resulted in the change of placement occurred and implements a behavioral intervention plan for the child.
• If a behavioral intervention plan has already been developed, review the behavioral intervention plan and modify it as necessary to address the behavior.

Except as provided in 34CFR 300.530(g) of this section return the child to the placement from which the child was removed, unless the parent and the district agree to a change of placement as part of the modification of the behavioral plan. A student not yet eligible for Special Education may be protected under IDEA 2004 regulations if the district can be deemed to have had knowledge that the student had a disability. The district must be deemed to have knowledge that a child is a child with a disability if before the behavior that precipitated the disciplinary action occurred:???????

• The parents of the child expressed concern in writing to a supervisory or administrative personnel of the appropriate education agency, or to a teacher of the child, that the child is in need of special education and related services.
• The parent of the child requested an evaluation of the child pursuant to Sec 300.300 through 300.311.
• The teacher of the child or other personnel of the district expressed specific concerns about a pattern of behavior demonstrated by the child directly to the Director of Special Education of the agency or to other supervisory personnel agency. The district would not be deemed to have knowledge if:
• The parent of the child has not allowed an evaluation of the child pursuant to 34CFR 300.300 through 300.311 or has refused services under IDEA or
• The child has been evaluated in accordance with Sed. 300.300 through 300.311 and determined to not be a child with a disability under this part.

If the district does not have knowledge that a child is a child with a disability (in accordance with paragraphs) (b) and (c) of this section) prior to taking disciplinary measures against the child, the child may be subjected to the disciplinary measures applied to children without disabilities who engage in comparable behaviors. If a request is made for an evaluation of a child during the time period in which the child is subjected to disciplinary measures under 34 CFR300.530, the evaluation must be conducted in an expedited manner.

504 PLANS

Students who have an identified disability that limits a major life activity (i.e., walking, learning, etc.) and who do not qualify for special education services under IDEA may qualify for a 504 plan. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a broad Civil Rights law that protects the rights of individuals in programs that receive federal funds. For example, a child with a specific disability or impairment that interferes with the ability to access classroom learning, or the school’s physical environment, may be eligible under Section 504 to receive services or classroom accommodations that will give him/her the chance to participate in the class to the same extent that non-disabled students participate. Under this regulation, if a student is eligible, a team of educators within the building develops a Section 504 Plan that will recommend services and/or accommodations. Parents seeking more information about eligibility under Section 504 should contact Ms. Phipps.
 

SCHOOL ACCIDENT INSURANCE

The D-Y Regional School District will purchase Student Accident Insurance for all students which will cover medical expenses resulting from accidental injuries to students during interscholastic sports, intramural sports and physical education classes.  Complete information about the insurance plan will be distributed during the first week of school.

CURRICULUM OPT-OUT POLICY

Consistent with Massachusetts regulations, 603 CMR 26.05(1), the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District, through its curricula and materials, encourages respect for the human and civil rights of all individuals, regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.  In accordance with district guidelines, families may request information from the building principal on available accommodations related to curriculum content.
 

EXTRA HELP

Extra help will be available after school for students needing additional assistance or help with assignments, completing missed homework or tests due to absences, or for receiving remedial assistance. Teachers will designate one day a week on which they are available for extra help. Students may be requested by teachers to stay for extra help if they determine that the student is in need of such assistance.

 

IPAD USER AGREEMENT

Parents and students must read and abide by this Responsible Use Agreement.

Using DYRSD online and digital technology, I will be a good digital citizen. I acknowledge that I understand the following: 

I am responsible for practicing positive digital citizenship. 

• I will practice positive digital citizenship, including appropriate behavior and contributions on websites, social media, discussion boards, media sharing sites, and other electronic communications, including new technology. 
• I will be honest in all digital communication. 
• I understand that what I do and post online must not disrupt school activities or compromise school safety and security. 
• I am responsible for keeping personal information private which means I will not share personal information about myself or others, including, but not limited to: names, home addresses, telephone numbers, birth dates, or visuals such as pictures, videos, and drawings. 
• I will not meet anyone in person that I have met only on the Internet. 
• I will be aware of the privacy settings on websites that I visit. 
• I will abide by all laws, this Responsible Use Agreement, and all District security policies. 

I am responsible for my passwords and my actions when using District accounts. 

• I will not share any school or district usernames and passwords with anyone. 
• I will not access the account information of others. 
• I will log out of unattended equipment and accounts to maintain privacy and security.

I am responsible for my verbal, written, and artistic expression. 

• I will use appropriate school language in all electronic communications, including email, social media posts, audio recordings, video conferencing, and artistic works. 

I am responsible for treating others with respect and dignity. 

• I will not send and/or distribute hateful, discriminatory, harassing or sexual digital communications.
• I understand that bullying in any form, including cyberbullying, is unacceptable. 

I am responsible for accessing only educational content when using DYRSD technology. 

• I will not seek out, display, or circulate hate speech, sexually explicit or violent content. 
• I understand that a teacher or administrator must approve any exceptions as part of a school assignment. 
• I understand that the District network’s use for illegal, political, or commercial purposes is strictly forbidden.

I am responsible for respecting and maintaining the security of DYRSD digital resources and networks. 

• I will not try to get around security settings and filters, including using VPNs to access websites blocked by the district. 
• I will not install or use illegal software or files, including copyright-protected materials, unauthorized software, or apps on any DYRSD technology equipment. 
• I will not use personal mobile hotspots on school property.
• I will not use the DYRSD network or equipment to obtain unauthorized information, access information protected by privacy laws, or impersonate other users.

I am responsible for taking all reasonable care when handling DYRSD equipment. 

• I understand that vandalism in any form is prohibited.
• I will report any known or suspected acts of vandalism to the appropriate authority. 
• I will respect my and others' use and access to DYRSD equipment. 
• I am responsible for respecting the works of others. 
• I will follow all copyright guidelines which means I will not copy another person’s work and represent it as my own, and I will properly cite all sources. 
• I will not download illegally obtained music, software, apps, or other works. 
• I understand all DYRSD trademarks, logos, and symbols are for school district use only.

I am responsible for the data I create and for protecting it. 

• I understand the school district provides me with a Google account to save and store all my data and files. 
• I understand that I should save any important schoolwork that I’ve created to my Google Drive.
• I understand I should not save or store personal data or files on any school device. 
• I understand that the Google account provided by DYRSD is owned and monitored by DYRSD.

Students and parents/guardians in the DYRSD must adhere to the DYRSD program procedures, Student Code of Conduct, Student Handbook, Technology Responsible Use Agreement, School Committee Policies, and federal and state laws.

 

The technology device covered by this agreement is a District-issued iPad or Chromebook. One iPad or Chromebook, charger, and case (iPads only) are loaned to the student. It is the student’s responsibility to care for the equipment on a daily basis and ensure that it is stored in a safe place. Any technical or mechanical issues with the District issued iPad or Chromebook must be reported to the school for evaluation and repair.

This equipment is, and at all times remains, the property of the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional School District and is subject to random inspection. The equipment will be returned to the District during the final week of school or sooner if a student withdraws from the District.

POSSESSION OF PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Upon entering their advisory, students will turn off their cell phones and  turn into their advisor. Cell phones will be kept secure in the advisory classroom until dismissal. Headphones and earbuds should only be used within the classroom upon the teacher's instruction. Students found to have a cell phone/earbuds during the school day will have their devices confiscated and turned into administration, with the following progressive discipline:

First offense: Lunch Detention. Students may collect their device from the main office at the end of the day (2:40).

Second offense: After school detention. Caretaker will be required to pick the device up.

Third offense: Meeting between student, administration, and parent.

Exemptions will be made for students requiring their cell phones for medical purposes, per 504.

Please remember that DYMS is not responsible for lost, damaged or missing property. 

 

 

 

Dennis - Yarmouth Transportation Page

Bus transportation is provided by Five Star Inc. They can be reached at 413-789-4789 or 508-213-8916. Children will not be allowed to ride a different bus or get off at a different stop without written permission from the parent. Notes should be dropped off at the office before the start of school. Permission to change buses will generally be granted, unless to do so would cause overcrowding of a bus or the driver has requested such permission be withheld.

For safety reasons permission must be obtained: skateboards and other large objects such as hockey sticks are being brought on the bus. Parents should make every effort to make alternate transportation plans if such items are to be brought to school.

LATE BUSES

Late buses will leave the school at approximately 3:50 pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. The late bus will be available to students remaining after school for extra help, make-up work, co-curricular activities, and detention. There is a bus for the north side of town and one for the south side of town. Parents can also make arrangements to pick their child/children up at school. (After-school buses are not available for transportation of students whose riding privileges on the regular school bus have been suspended.)