MAINE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT #34
Belfast Belmont Morrill Northport Searsmont Swanville
office of the superintendent – po box 363 – belfast me 04915
Telephone: 207 338-1960 FAX: 207 338-4597
SCHOOL BOARD POLICY MANUAL
Section E: Support Services
Code |
Description |
Adopted/Revised |
EBA |
Building and Grounds Inspection |
February 29, 2000 |
EBAA |
Chemical Hazards |
July 13, 2006 |
EBAA-A |
Chemical Hazards-Addendum (combine w/EBAA) |
February 25, 2003 |
EBAB |
Hazardous Materials |
February 29, 2000 |
EBBA-R |
Blood Borne Pathogens |
April 16, 2004 |
EBBB |
Accident Reports |
February 29, 2000 |
EBCA |
Crisis Response Plan |
February 29, 2000 |
EBCC |
Bomb Threats |
February 29, 2000 |
EBCC-R |
Bomb Threats-Administrative Regulations |
February 29, 2000 |
EBCD |
Emergency Closings |
February 29, 2000 |
EBCE |
School Fire Drills |
February 29, 2000 |
EC |
Buildings/Grounds/Property Management |
February 29, 2000 |
ECAC |
Vandalism/Break-ins/Theft |
February 29, 2000 |
ECAD |
School and Personal Property Replacement/Restitution |
February 29, 2000 |
ECB |
Pest Management in School Facilities |
April 29, 2004 |
ECB-E1 |
Pest Management Notification (combine w/ECB?) |
March 1, 2004 |
ECD |
Custodial Services |
February 29, 2000 |
EDC |
Authorized Use of School-Owned Materials/Equipment |
February 29, 2000 |
EEA |
Student Transportation |
February 29, 2000 |
EEAC |
Bus Scheduling and Routing |
February 29, 2000 |
EEAE |
School Bus Safety |
February 29, 2000 |
EEAEA |
Bus Driver Requirements/ Training/Responsibilities |
February 29, 2000 |
EEAEAA |
Drug and Alcohol Testing of School Bus Drivers |
February 29, 2000 |
EEBA |
School-Owned Vehicles |
February 29, 2000 |
EF |
Wellness Policy (Has This Been Adopted?) |
December 5, 2005 |
EF |
Addendum Wellness (Has This Been Adopted?) |
December 5, 2005 |
EFE |
Competitive Food Sales – Sales of Foods in Competition with the School Food Service Program |
July 13, 2006 |
NEW POLICY
Section EBA BUILDING AND GROUNDS INSPECTION
The Director of Maintenance and Transportation will make annual thorough inspections of the buildings and grounds of the District and make any necessary corrective actions. Principals are responsible for inspecting their buildings on a frequent basis and making requests for corrective actions as needed.
Unsafe and hazardous conditions are defined as conditions which endanger the health and safety or well-being of students, employees or other persons in the building. Such conditions will be reported immediately to the Principal. The Principal is responsible for taking immediate corrective action. If corrective action cannot be taken at the building level, the condition will be reported to the Director of Maintenance and Transportation. The Principal or Director of Maintenance and Transportation shall report such conditions and any corrective actions to the Superintendent of Schools.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section EBAA CHEMICAL HAZARDS
MSAD #34 is committed to providing a safe environment for students and employees. It is the policy of MSAD #34 to follow safe practices in regard to the storage and handling of hazardous chemicals in its schools. MSAD #34 will comply with all applicable Maine and federal laws and regulations concerning hazardous chemicals.
The Superintendent will be responsible for developing a Chemical Hygiene Plan that includes procedures relevant to the identification, purchase, storage, inventory, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals, maintenance of material safety data sheets (MSDS), and for ensuring that employees are provided required training and information concerning hazardous chemicals used in the schools. The Superintendent may delegate responsibilities associated with Plan development to school system staff or a professional consultant.
The Superintendent/designee will appoint a Chemical Hygiene Officer for MSAD #34. The Chemical Hygiene Officer will have the primary responsibility for implementing MSAD #34’s Chemical Hygiene Plan. The person appointed Chemical Hygiene Officer should be familiar with State and federal requirements pertaining to laboratory and chemical safety and the chemicals used in the schools.
The Chemical Hygiene Officer shall achieve such certification and/or attend such training as may be mandated by the Maine Department of Education or other State agencies.
Legal Reference: 29 C.F.R. § 1910.1200
26 M.R.S.A. §565
Ch. 2 §179 (Dept. of Prof. Regulation Rule)
Ch. 161 (Dept. of Educ. Rule)
Commissioner’s Administrative Letter No. 33, June 9, 2005
(Chemicals in Schools)
Cross Reference: EBCA -Crisis Response Plan
Adopted: February 25, 2003
Revised: November 1, 2005
Revised: May 10, 2006
Revised: July 13, 2006
Section EBAA-A CHEMICAL HAZARDS ADDENDUM
MSAD # 34 shall comply with all applicable Maine and federal laws and regulations concerning chemical hazards. The Superintendent is responsible for developing and implementing a hazard communication program, training programs and any other procedures necessary to ensure that MSAD #34 is in compliance with this policy and applicable laws/regulations.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
A.MSAD #34 will obtain MSDS for all hazardous chemicals utilized in MSAD #34. Copies of the MSDS will be available for inspection during regular business hours in each building where the chemicals are used.
B.MSDS will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis.
C.MSDS for new products put into use in MSAD #34 will be reviewed and employees who may be exposed to the product shall receive appropriate training as necessary.
Employee Training and Information Program
A.All employees who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals shall be given a list of hazardous chemicals utilized in MSAD #34 and a copy of this policy.
B.All employees whose work involves hazardous chemicals are required to attend a training program before commencing work. Training will also be provided whenever a new chemical the employees have not been trained on is introduced into their work area. Employee attendance at each required training program must be documented.
C.MSAD #34’s training program shall be conducted in compliance with applicable laws/retulations and include the following elements at a minimum:
1.An explanation of applicable laws and/or regulations;
2.Identification of work/storage areas where hazardous chemicals are present;
3.Description of methods for detecting the presence or release of hazardous chemicals in work/storage areas;
4.Explanation of potential health problems associated with hazardous chemicals in the workplace;
5.Explanation of how to read a MSDS, product levels and other documents related to hazardous chemicals and where in the facility the MSDS may be found;
6.Explanation of methods to protect employees from hazardous chemicals, including the purpose, proper use and limitations of personal protective equipment; and
7.Explanation of emergency procedures.
Product Labeling and Disposal
All regulated chemicals and products shall be labeled as required by law/regulations. Container that are not properly labeled shall not be allowed in MSAD #34.
MSAD #34 shall dispose of hazardous chemicals properly. When required by law/regulations, hazardous chemicals shall be disposed of through an agency licensed by the State. When it is necessary to store hazardous chemicals prior to removal from school property, storage shall be in an approved tank or building.
Outside Contractors
MSAD #34 shall inform all outside contractors of hazardous chemicals they could be exposed to in the course of their work, along with appropriate protective measures. MSAD #34 shall also request outside contractors to provide notification about their use of hazardous chemicals.
Annual Review
This policy shall be reviewed by the Superintendent/designee on an annual basis.
Legal Reference:29 C.F.R. § 1910.1200
26 MRSA § 565
Code of Maine Reg. Chapter 2 § 12-179
Cross Reference:EBCA: Crisis Response Plan
Adopted:February 25, 2003
Section EBAB HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
The Board of Directors recognizes its responsibility for providing an environment which is reasonably secure from known hazards. Hazardous materials include any substance or mixture of substances that poses a fire, explosive, reactive, or health hazard as more fully defined by law.
Information and procedures regarding hazardous materials will be included in the school district’s safety files and the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
Adopted: February 29, 2000
ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATION EBBA-R
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN
In accordance with the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) Bloodborne Pathogens standard, the following exposure control plan has been developed for MSAD #34.
EXPOSURE DETERMINATION
1. OSHA requires employers to determine which employees may incur occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. The exposure determination is made without regard to the use of personal protective equipment; employees are considered to be exposed even if they wear personal protective equipment. This exposure determination is required to list all job classifications in which all employees may be expected to incur such occupational exposure, regardless of frequency. In MSAD #34, the following job classifications have been determined to be in this category:
School nurses, athletic coaches, physical education teachers, custodians, bus drivers
2. In addition, OSHA requires a listing of job classifications in which some employees may have occupational exposure.
· Job Classification: Teacher, educational technician, secretary
· Tasks/Procedures: Blood glucose monitoring, regular administration of first aid and first aid responders for medical emergency response team in each building.
3. Other employees who believe that their job places them at risk should submit their written
job description, and a description of the task or procedure that may place them at risk, to the
Superintendent of Schools for review.
IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE AND METHODOLOGY
OSHA requires that this plan include a schedule and method of implementation for the various requirements of the standard. The following complies with this requirement:
Compliance Methods
Standard precautions will be followed in each MSAD #34 school in order to prevent contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials. All blood or other potentially infectious material will be considered infectious regardless of the perceived status of the source individual.
Engineering and work practice controls will be utilized to eliminate or minimize exposure to employees. Where occupational exposure remains after institution of these controls, personal
protective equipment shall also be utilized. In MSAD #34, the following engineering controls will be utilized: Gloves in all first aid kits and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits; and in spill/clean-up kits in each school and in the bus garage.
The above-listed controls will be examined and maintained on a regular schedule. The schedule for reviewing the effectiveness of the controls is as follows:
· School nurses are responsible for first aid and spill kits;
· Department coordinators are responsible for maintaining personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eyewash.
Handwashing facilities are also available for employees who incur exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. OSHA requires that these facilities be readily accessible after incurring exposure. In MSAD #34, handwashing facilities are located: in all bathrooms, kitchens, school nurse offices, student laboratories, home economics classrooms, locker rooms.
After removal of personal protective gloves, employees should wash hands and any other potentially contaminated skin area immediately, or as soon as feasible, with soap and water.
If employees incur exposure to their skin or mucous membranes, then those areas should be washed or flushed with water, as appropriate, as soon as feasible following contact.
Needles
Contaminated needles and other contaminated sharps should not be bent, recapped, removed, sheared, or purposely broken.
Containers for Sharps
Contaminated sharps are to be placed immediately, or as soon as possible, after use into appropriate sharps containers. The sharps containers are puncture resistant, labeled with a biohazard label, and are leak proof. School nurses will dispose of sharps containers properly and replace them as necessary.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
All personal protective equipment approved by the Superintendent of Schools for use in MSAD #34 will be provided without cost to employees. Personal protective equipment will be chosen based on the anticipated exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. The protective equipment will be considered appropriate only if it does not permit blood or other potentially infectious materials to pass through or reach the employee’s clothing, skin, eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes under normal conditions of use and for the duration of time which the protective equipment will be used.
Gloves should be worn where it is reasonably anticipated that employees will have hand contact with blood, other potentially infectious materials, non-intact skin, and mucous membranes. Gloves will be available from first aid and spill kits, school nurses, department heads of maintenance, food services, and athletics. Gloves should be used for the following procedures: any incident that poses risk of exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials.
Disposable gloves used in MSAD #34 are not to be washed or decontaminated for re-use and are to be replaced when they become contaminated, torn, punctured, or their ability to function as a barrier is compromised. Utility gloves may be decontaminated for re-use provided that the integrity of the glove is not compromised. Utility gloves should be discarded if they are cracked, peeling, torn, punctured, or exhibit other signs of deterioration or when their ability to function as a barrier is compromised.
Masks in combination with eye protection devices are required to be worn whenever splashes, spray, splatter, or droplets of blood or other potentially infectious materials may be generated and eye, nose, or mouth contamination can reasonably be anticipated. Situations at the school which would require such protection are as follows: profuse, uncontrolled bleeding, and large cleanups of blood or other body fluids.
Each school will be cleaned and decontaminated in accordance with MSAD #34 Board Policy ECD, Custodial Services.
Decontamination should be accomplished by utilizing the following materials: 1:10 Dilution of bleach and water or other approved EPA registered germicides.
All contaminated work surfaces should be decontaminated after completion of procedures and immediately after any spill of blood or other potentially infectious materials, as well as at the end of the work shift if the surface may have become contaminated since the last cleaning.
All bins, pails, cans, and similar receptacles shall be inspected and decontaminated by custodial staff on a regularly scheduled basis as designated by maintenance guidelines.
Any broken glassware which may be contaminated should not be picked up directly with the hands. The following procedures will be used: broom, or brush and dustpan.
Regulated Waste Disposal
All contaminated sharps should be discarded as soon as feasible in sharps containers. Sharps containers are located with blood glucose monitoring kits, craft and art rooms at Belfast Area High School, school nurse offices.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
All employees whose job has identified them as at risk of exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials will be offered the Hepatitis B vaccine, at no cost to the employee. The vaccine will be offered within 10 working days of initial assignment to work involving the potential for occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials unless the employee presents proof of vaccination.
Employees who decline the Hepatitis B vaccine shall sign a waiver which uses the wording in Appendix A of the OSHA standard.
Employees who initially declined the vaccine, but who later wish to have it, may then have the vaccine provided at no cost.
Post-Exposure Evaluation and Follow-up
When the employee incurs an exposure incident, it should be reported to Waldo County General Hospital emergency room and to the Payroll Clerk at the MSAD #34 Central Office.
All employees who incur an exposure incident will be offered post-exposure evaluation and follow-up in accordance with OSHA standards as provided by Waldo County General Hospital.
This follow-up should occur within 24 hours of exposure and should include the following:
Documentation of the route of exposure and the circumstances related to the incident.
If possible, the identification of the source individual and, if possible, the status of the source individual.
The blood of the source individual may be tested for HIV/HBV infectivity. Superintendent is responsible for attempting to obtain written consent from the source individual.
Exposed employees will be offered the option of having their own blood collected for testing for HIV/HBV serological status. The blood sample will be preserved for up to 90 days to allow the employee to decide if the blood should be tested for HIV serological status. However, if the employee decides prior to that time that testing will or will not be conducted then the appropriate action can be taken and the blood sample discarded.
Employees will be offered post exposure prophylaxis in accordance with the current recommendations of the U.S. Public Health Service.
Employees will be given appropriate counseling concerning precautions to take during the period after the exposure incident. Employees will also be given information on what potential illnesses to be alert for and to report any related experiences to appropriate personnel.
Interaction with Health Care Professionals
The health care provider shall provide a written report to MSAD #34 in the following instances:
When the employee is sent to obtain the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Whenever the employee is sent to a health care professional following an exposure incident.
Health care professionals shall be instructed to limit their opinions to:
Whether the Hepatitis B vaccine is indicated and if the employee has received the vaccine, or for evaluation following an incident.
That the employee has been informed of the results of the evaluation, and
That the employee has been told about any medical conditions resulting from exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. (Note that the written opinion to the employer is not to reference any personal medical information.)
Training
Training for all employees will be conducted prior to initial assignment to tasks where occupational exposure may occur.
Training for employees will include explanations of:
The OSHA standard for Bloodborne Pathogens
Epidemiology and symptomatology of bloodborne diseases
Modes of transmission of bloodborne pathogens
This Exposure Control Plan
Procedures which might cause exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials
Control methods which will be used at the school to control exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials
Personal protective equipment available at each school and who should be contacted concerning such equipment
Post Exposure evaluation and follow-up
Signs and labels used at the school
Hepatitis B vaccine policy
Recordkeeping
All records required by OSHA standard will be maintained at the MSAD #34 Central Office.
New employee training will include personal presentation and written materials, including a copy of this regulation and documentation of training.
The MSAD #34 Central Office will notify school nurses of employees hired after the beginning of the school year so that they can schedule training.
Athletic directors will be responsible for scheduling training with school nurses for coaches hired after the beginning of the school year.
Those employees at risk of occupational exposure will receive an annual review.
Legal Reference: 29 CFR 1910.1030
Issued: March 12, 1996
Revised: March 31, 2004
Revised: April 16, 2004
Section EBBB ACCIDENT REPORTS
In case of an accident or sudden illness, the employees of MSAD #34 are authorized to respond to any emergency first aid situation and to take whatever reasonable steps are necessary (Policy JLCE).
All injuries involving students and employees engaged in School District business shall be reported to the Principal/Site Supervisor. Also, injuries to persons visiting on school sites shall be reported to the Principal/Site Supervisor. The Principal/Site Supervisor is responsible for the processing of an accident report and submitting such report to the Office of the Superintendent.
If an employee is injured on the job, he/she should notify his/her Principal/Supervisor as soon as possible and, if necessary seek medical assistance. Employees should then contact the Central Office to have an accident report completed. This report must be completed within 48 hours and the State Workers’ Compensation Commission must be notified. All injuries, with or without lost time, must be reported. In accordance with the Workers’ Compensation statute, MSAD #34 has the right to select a primary health care provider within the first ten days of having knowledge of a work-related injury. The District has an agreement with Coastal Medical Care to provide the initial medical consultation, if the injury is not an emergency. In the event the injury is of an emergency nature, the injured
employee should go to the nearest health facility.
Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA §4009
Adopted:1984
Revised:February 29, 2000
Section EBCA CRISIS RESPONSE PLAN
Each school within MSAD #34 shall develop a crisis response plan. The crisis response plan shall be in writing and available at all times in the Principal’s office at each school.
The plan should incorporate the following:
Development of the plan should include input from administrators, teachers, support staff, students, parents and recommendations of the District’s School Safety Committee
Development of the plan should include a thorough assessment of the safety needs and issues in each school building and on school grounds
The plan should address natural disasters, industrial accidents, threats from individuals or groups inside or outside the schools, deaths in the school community, accidents and other emergency situations.
The plan should include specific procedures for dealing with different types of crises/accidents and identify the responsibilities of school staff and outside personnel.
The plan should include procedures for safeguarding students and dismissing them from school if necessary.
A communications plan for informing staff, students, parents, the community and the media should be included.
A training plan and drills for staff, students and appropriate outside personnel should be included to ensure that procedures are understood
The plan should make provisions for the emotional and physical needs of staff, students and others during and after a crisis.
The plan should include a procedure for debriefing and evaluating its effectiveness each time it is used and for updating the plan as necessary.
The plan should include a list of available school, community and government resources as appropriate to the school.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section EBCC BOMB THREATS
The Board recognizes that bomb threats are a significant concern to MSAD #34. Whether real and carried out or intended as a prank or for some other purpose, a bomb threat represents a potential danger to the safety and welfare of students and staff and to the integrity of school property. Bomb threats disrupt the instructional program and learning environment and also place significant demands on school financial resources and public safety services. These effects occur even when such threats prove to be false.
Any bomb threat will be regarded as an extremely serious matter and treated accordingly. The Board directs the Superintendent to react promptly and appropriately to information concerning bomb threats and to initiate or recommend suitable disciplinary action.
A. Conduct Prohibited
No person shall make, or communicate by any means, whether oral or written, a threat that a bomb
has been, or will be, placed on school premises. Because of the potential for evacuation of the schools
and other disruption of school operations, placement of a bomb or of a "look-alike" bomb on school
premises will be considered a threat for the purpose of this policy.
It is also a violation of Board policy to communicate by any means that any toxic or hazardous
substance or material has been placed, or will be placed, on school premises with the intent to
endanger the safety and welfare of students or staff and/or to disrupt the operations of the schools.
For the purpose of this policy, "toxic or hazardous substance or material" means any material or
substance, including biomedical materials or organisms, that, when placed as threatened, could be
harmful to humans.
B. Definitions
A "bomb" means an explosive, incendiary or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket, missile, mine,
"Molotov cocktail" or other destructive device.
A "look-alike bomb" means any apparatus or object that conveys the appearance of a bomb or
other destructive device.
A "bomb threat" is the communication, by any means, whether verbal or non-verbal, that a bomb
has been, or will be, placed on school premises, including possession or placement of a bomb or
look-alike bomb on school premises.
"School premises" means any school property and any location where any school activities may take
place.
C. Development of Bomb Threat Procedures
The Superintendent/designee shall be responsible for developing and implementing procedures
specific to bomb threats as part of the school unit's Crisis Response Plan. These procedures are
intended to inform administrators and staff of appropriate protocols to follow in the event that a bomb
threat is received and should include provisions to address:
1. Threat assessment (for the purpose of identifying a response that is in proportion to the threat, in light of what is necessary to ensure safety);
2. Building evacuation and re-entry (including selection of potential alternative sites for those who are evacuated);
3. Incident "command and control" (who is in charge, and when);
4. Communications contacts and mandatory bomb threat reporting;
5. Parent notification process;
6. Training for staff members; and
7. Support services for students and staff.
The initial bomb threat procedure will be subject to approval by the Board. The Superintendent/
designee will be responsible for overseeing a review or evaluation of bomb threat procedures prior
to the Board's required annual approval of MSAD #34’s Crisis Response Plan, or following
implementation of the procedure in response to a specific threat.
D. Reporting of Bomb Threats
A student who learns of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb on school premises must
immediately report such information to the building principal, teacher, the School Resource
Officer or other employee in a position of authority.
An employee of MSAD #34 who learns of a bomb threat shall immediately inform the building
administrator. The building administrator shall immediately take appropriate steps to protect the
safety of students and staff in accordance with MSAD #34’s bomb threat procedure, as developed
under Section C, and inform the Superintendent of the threat.
All bomb threats shall be reported immediately to the local law enforcement authority, as provided in
the bomb threat procedures.
The Superintendent shall be responsible for reporting any bomb threat to the Department of
Education within two business days of the incident. Reports will include the name of the school, the
date and time of the threat, the medium used to communicate the threat, and whether or not the
perpetrators have been apprehended.
E. Student Disciplinary Consequences
Making a bomb threat is a crime under Maine law. Any student suspected of making a bomb threat
shall be reported to law enforcement authorities for investigation and possible prosecution. Apart
from any penalty imposed by law, and without regard to the existence or status of criminal charges, a
student who makes a bomb threat shall be subject to disciplinary action by the school.
The administration shall suspend and may recommend for expulsion any student who makes a bomb
threat. The making of a bomb threat will be considered deliberately disobedient and deliberately
disorderly within the meaning of 20-A M.R.S.A. § lOO1 (9) and will be grounds for expulsion if
found necessary for the peace and usefulness of the school.
In addition, a student who is found after hearing by the Board to have brought a bomb to school
shall be expelled from school for at least one year in accordance with 20-A M.R.S.A. § lOOl (9-A)
and Policy JICIA, except that the Superintendent may modify the requirement for expulsion based
on individual circumstances.
A student who has been identified through the PET process as having a disability and whose conduct
in violation of this policy is related to the disability shall be disciplined as provided in Policy JKF.
F. Aiding Other Students in Making Bomb Threats
A student who knowingly encourages, causes, aids or assists another student in making or
communicating a bomb threat shall be subject to the disciplinary consequences described in Section
E of this policy.
G. Failure to Report a Bomb Threat
A student who fails to report information or knowledge of a bomb threat or the existence of a bomb
or other destructive device in a school building or on school property may be subject to disciplinary
consequences, which may include suspension and/or expulsion.
H. Staff Disciplinary Consequences
A school system employee who makes or communicates a bomb threat will be reported to appropriate
law enforcement authorities and will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination
of employment. Disciplinary action taken shall be consistent with collective bargaining agreements,
other employment agreements and Board policies.
A school system employee who fails to report information or knowledge of a bomb threat or the
existence of a bomb on school premises will be subject to discipline up to and including termination
of employment.
I. Civil Liability
The school unit reserves the right to bring suit against any individual responsible for a violation of
this policy and to seek restitution and other damages as permitted by law.
J. Lost Instructional Time
Instructional time lost as a result of a bomb threat will be rescheduled at the earliest appropriate (or
practicable) opportunity, as determined by the Superintendent.
Time lost may be rescheduled on a vacation day, or after what would normally be the last day of the
school year, except on days when schools must be closed as required by law.
K. Notification Through Student Handbook
All student handbooks shall address MSAD #34’s bomb threat policy and procedures and explain the
educational consequences of bomb threats. In addition, student handbooks shall notify students and
parents that bomb threats violate Board policy and civil and criminal law.
Legal References: 18 U.S.C. §§ 921; 8921
17-AM.R.S.A. § 210
20-A M.R.S.A. §§ 263; 1001(9); 1001(9-A); 1001(17); 1001(18)
Cross References: EBCA - Crisis Response Plan
JKD - Suspension of Students
JKE -Expulsion of Students
JKF -Suspension/Expulsion of Students with Disabilities
JICIA - Weapons, Violence and School Safety
Student Code of Conduct
Adopted: February 25, 2003
Section EBCC-R BOMB THREAT—Administrative Procedure
If a telephone threat is received, the person receiving the call should obtain as much detailed information as possible about the bomb and its location and the building principal is to be notified immediately.
The receiver of the call should:
· Hit star 69 (*69) immediately
· Write down the exact time the call was received
· Write down as much detailed data about the call as possible
· Write down the p[hone number at which the call was received
· Write down any distinguishing characteristics of the caller—sex, age, adult or child, speech patterns
(slow, rapid, normal, excited, accent, loud, disguised, broken, sincere)
The call should not be discussed with other personnel except with permission of the principal. The Principal or designated person is to call the local law enforcement personnel and the local fire department; then, call the Superintendent’s office. Evacuation of the building must be considered in all cases; however, circumstances will vary with each incident. A decision shall be made by the person in charge of the building on whether or not to evacuate the building. If the decision is to not evacuate, input from the Police and/or Fire Department should be obtained. In the case of a decision to evacuate, the fire alarm is to be rung immediately and students evacuated. (Registers or attendance lists will be removed from the building.) Attendance should be taken again outside the
building.
In case of inclement weather, buses are to be called and students will wait on buses until permission is granted to reenter the building.
The public safety personnel, in consultation with the person in charge of the building and/or District, will determine whether a search of the building is to be completed. If there is a search of the building, students will return to the classrooms only upon the recommendation from the public safety personnel.
After discussing the situation with the public safety personnel, the administration MAY:
· Move students to another location
· Send students home
· Send students back to regularly scheduled classes
If the decision is made to return students to classrooms, those students who have turned in a written note from parents to be excused from school in cases of bomb threats will be dismissed upon notification of parents by school authorities. Students to be dismissed will remain outside the building until parents are notified and procedure for dismissal is verified. Parents should specify their preference for dismissal, how they are to be reached and alternative contacts.
Staff input will be solicited on how lost class time is to be made up.
Adopted: May 26, 1992
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EBCD EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
The decision to close early, open late, or cancel school is made by the Superintendent of Schools. If it is necessary to dismiss school early because of emergency weather conditions, the normal order of dismissal will prevail. Each Principal will clearly explain the early dismissal procedures to parents and urge that they make provisions for the care of their child in case they are not home when the child arrives. Principals should also explain the possibility of one school having to close early due to other emergencies such as mechanical problems in that school, and urge parents to make provisions in such cases.
In the event of the delayed opening of school, breakfast will not be served.
Adopted: 1984
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EBCE SCHOOL FIRE DRILLS
In order to protect the health and safety of students and staff and in compliance with the provisions of the Life Safety Code, fire drills will be held in each school building. Each building principal, in cooperation with local fire officials, will develop procedures designed to accomplish the evacuation of school buildings as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Principals shall keep a record of all fire drills held in their schools, stating the date and time the drill was held and the time required for evacuation of the building. This information will be reported to the Superintendent or designee after each drill. Fire officials will be notified before each drill.
Staff members will receive an annual orientation to this procedure, and the fire drill procedure will be prominently displayed in each classroom. Principals will ensure that each teacher acquaints the students under his/her care with designated evacuation routes during the first day of school.
Adopted: April 28, 1986
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EC BUILDING/GROUNDS/PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
The Board of Directors recognizes that the education of children is dependent upon many factors, including a proper physical environment which is safe, clean, attractive, pleasant and functions smoothly.
The care, custody and safekeeping of all school district property is the general responsibility of the Director of Maintenance and Transportation reporting to the Assistant Superintendent. It will be the Director’s responsibility to establish such procedures and employ such means that will ensure the proper maintenance and safekeeping of school district property.
Within the separate schools, the Principal will be responsible for the proper care and maintenance of the building(s), equipment and grounds. The Principal and Director of Maintenance and Transportation will establish the duties of custodial employees assigned to such building(s).
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section ECAC VANDALISM/BREAK-INS/THEFT
Section ECAD SCHOOL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY REPLACEMENT/RESTITUTION
Principals in charge of buildings will report vandalism, thefts or break-ins to the police immediately upon discovery. The Office of the Superintendent should be notified of items stolen and/or damage to the building immediately.
Except as provided in a bargaining contract, personal property of employees, students, or citizens which is lost, stolen, damaged or vandalized on School Board property is not the responsibility of the School District.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section ECB PEST MANAGEMENT IN SCHOOL FACILITIES AND ON SCHOOL GROUNDS
The Board recognizes that structural and landscape pests can pose significant problems for people and school unit property, but that use of some pesticides may raise concerns among parents, students and staff. It is therefore the policy of MSAD #34 to incorporate Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles and procedures for the control of structural and landscape pests. A copy of this policy shall be kept in every school and made available upon request to staff, parents, students and the public.
IPM is a systematic approach to pest management that combines a variety of methods for managing pests including monitoring; improved horticultural, sanitation and food storage practices; pest exclusion and removal; biological control; and pesticides.
For the purpose of this policy, "pests" are populations of living organisms (animals, plants or microorganisms) that interfere with use of school facilities and grounds. "Pesticide" is defined as any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pests and any substance or mixture of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant or desiccant.
The objective of MSAD #34’s IPM program is to provide effective pest control while minimizing pesticide use. The goals of the IPM program include managing pests to reduce any potential hazards to human health; preventing loss or damage to school structures or property; preventing pests from spreading beyond the site of infestation to other school property; and enhancing the quality of life for students, staff and others.
The Superintendent and/or designee shall develop and implement a Pest Management Plan consistent with the following IPM principles and procedures:
A. Appointment of an IPM Coordinator
The Superintendent/designee will appoint an IPM Coordinator for MSAD #34. The IPM
Coordinator will be the primary contact for pest control matters and will be responsible for
overseeing the implementation of the IPM plan, including making pest control decisions.
The IPM Coordinator will consult with the building principal and/or Superintendent before a
decision is made to do a pesticide application for which notice is required and before providing
notification of the planned application.
The IPM Coordinator's responsibilities may include:
1. Recording and monitoring data and pest sightings by school staff and students;
2. Coordinating pest management with pest control contractors;
3. Recording and ensuring that maintenance and sanitation recommendations are carried out
where feasible;
4. Ensuring that any pesticide use is done according to MSAD #34’s Pest Management Plan
and Chapter 27 Maine Dept. of Agriculture Board of Pesticides Control Rules ("Standards
for Pesticide Applications and Public Notification in Schools");
5. Making the school system's pest management policy available in every school building;
6. Having available for parents and staff a copy of the Maine regulation pertaining to pesticide
applications in schools (Chapter 27 Me. Dept. of Agriculture Board of Pesticides Control
"Standards for Pesticide Applications and Public Notification in Maine Schools") and a
record of prior pesticide applications and information about the pesticides used.
7. Initiating and coordinating notification of parents and staff of pesticide applications
according to MSAD #34’s notification procedure and posting notification signs as
appropriate; and
8. Recording all pesticides used by either a professional applicator or school staff and
maintaining other pest control data.
B. Identification of Specific Pest Thresholds
Routine inspection and accurate identification of pests are needed to recognize potential problems
and determine when action should be taken.
Action thresholds for specific sites will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the IPM
Coordinator in consultation with the building principal and/or Superintendent, and if necessary,
with the advice of a professional pest control expert.
As pest management objectives will differ from site to site ( e.g.: maintaining healthy turf and
specific playing surfaces on athletic fields, carpenter ant control in buildings, or maintenance of
ornamental plants), differences should be considered before setting an action threshold.
C. Pesticide Applicators
Any person who applies pesticides in school buildings or on school grounds, including school
personnel, must possess a Maine pesticide applicators license and should be trained in the
principles and practices of IPM. All pesticide use must be approved by MSAD #34’s IPM
Coordinator. Applicators must follow state regulations and label precautions and must comply
with the IPM policy and pest management plan.
D. Selection, Use and Storage of Pesticides
Pesticides should be used only when needed. Non-chemical pest management methods will be
implemented whenever possible to provide the desired control. The choice of using a pesticide will
be based on a review of other available options (sanitation, exclusion, mechanical means, trapping,
biological control) and a determination that these options have not worked or are not feasible.
When it has been determined that a pesticide must be used to achieve pest management goals, the
least hazardous effective pesticide should be selected. Application should be conducted in a
manner that, to the extent practicable using currently available technology, minimizes human risk.
Decisions concerning the particular pesticide to be used and the timing of pesticide application
should take into consideration the use of the buildings or grounds to be treated.
Pesticide purchases should be limited to the amount expected to be used for a specific application
or during the year. Pesticides will be stored and disposed of in accordance with label directions
and state and federal regulations. Pesticides must be stored in an appropriate, secured location not
accessible to students or unauthorized personnel.
E. Notification of Students, Staff and Parents of Use of Pesticides
A notice will be provided to staff, students and parents within the first two weeks of the school
year briefly explaining MSAD #34’s IPM pesticide use policy including provisions for
notification to parents and staff of specific planned pesticide applications in school buildings or on
school grounds.
When required by regulations, the school will notify staff, students and parents/guardians at least
five (5) days in advance of planned pesticide treatments in the school or on school grounds,
including playgrounds and playing fields.
When required by regulations, signs will be posted at each point of access to the treated area and in
a common area of the school at least two (2) working days prior to the application and for at least
48 hours following the application in accordance with applicable Maine Board of Pesticides
Control regulations.
A copy of the school system's IPM/Pest Management policy is available for review in the school
office. The school also keeps records of prior pesticide applications and the pesticides used. You
may review these records, a copy of the policy and Maine's "Pesticides in Schools" regulation
(Chapter 27 of the Department of Agriculture Board of Pesticides Control "Standards for Pesticide
Applications and Public Notification in Schools") by contacting our IPM Coordinator at 338-2430.
For further information about pests, pesticides and notification you may contact the Board of Pesticides Control at
F. Recordkeeping
When a pesticide has been used, records pertinent to the application including labels and material
safety data sheets will be maintained at a designated central location for two (2) years following
application. Records are to be completed on the day the pesticide is applied. Pest surveillance
records should be maintained to verify the need for pesticide treatments.
Legal Reference: 7 MRSA §§ 601-625
22 MRSA §§ 1471-A-1471-X
Ch. 27 Me. Dept. of Agriculture Board of Pesticides Control
Rules (Standards for Pesticide Applications and Public Notification in Schools)
Cross Reference: EBAA -Chemical Hazards
Adopted: April 29, 2004
Section ECE-E1 PEST MANAGEMENT NOTIFICATION
MSAD #34 uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to the control of insects, rodents, micro-organisms, weeds and other pests in school buildings and on school grounds. IPM combines a variety of methods for managing pests including monitoring, improved sanitation and food storage practices, pest exclusion and removal, biological control, and pesticides. The objective of the IPM program is to provide effective pest control while minimizing pesticide use.
Pesticides
Non-chemical pest management methods will be implemented whenever possible. However, sometimes pesticide use may be necessary to control a pest problem. When that happens, the school will use the least hazardous effective pesticide feasible.
Notification
When required by law, parents/guardians and school staff will be notified at least five days in advance of specific pesticide applications. When required by law, pesticide application notices will be posted in school and on school grounds.
Notification need not be given for pesticide applications recognized by law or regulations to pose little of no risk of exposure to students or staff.
A copy of the school system’s IPM/Pest Management policy is available for review in the school office. The school also keeps records of prior pesticide applications and the pesticides used. You may review these records, a copy of the policy and Maine’s “Pesticides in Schools” regulation (Chapter 27 of the Department of Agriculture Board of Pesticides Control “Standards for Pesticide Applications and Public Notification in Schools”) by contacting our IPM Coordinator, Mitch Brown, at 338-2430.
March 1, 2004
Section ECD CUSTODIAL SERVICES
The custodians shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to have a beneficial influence on the students.
Each custodian is responsible to the Principal and Director of Maintenance and Transportation for general care and oversight of the school buildings and for the cleanliness and neatness of their buildings and grounds, for the heating and ventilating of classrooms, for the receiving and checking of fuel and school supplies, for the display of the American flag on each school day (weather being suitable), for the exercise of every precaution to protect their buildings from fire and to protect the water supply.
Insofar as possible, custodians shall make necessary repairs to the school property and do necessary painting.
Custodians shall report all persons using the school premises under suspicious circumstances or willfully damaging the property.
Custodians shall immediately report cases of theft and loss or damage of property to the School Principal.
Custodians shall practice economical and environmental responsibility consistent with the Board’s environmental policy in the utilization of school equipment and supplies consistent with the welfare of all.
Adopted: January 12, 1993
Revised: February 1, 1993
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EDC AUTHORIZED USE OF SCHOOL-OWNED MATERIALS/EQUIPMENT
The property of the School District is for the use of the District and will only be loaned when it is in the best interest of or in support of School District activities.
Audio-visual equipment, computer equipment and/or materials may be loaned for specific occasions to civic and service organizations under the following conditions:
No charge is made
No teacher or other school person is deprived of the use of the equipment or materials
Full responsibility for damage or loss is assumed by the person or organization borrowing the equipment
The requests are not of a recurring nature
Requests for the use of equipment/materials will be approved by the Principal of the school receiving the request.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section EDC AUTHORIZED USE OF SCHOOL-OWNED MATERIALS/EQUIPMENT
The property of the School District is for the use of the District and will only be loaned when it is in the best interest of or in support of School District activities.
Audio-visual equipment, computer equipment and/or materials may be loaned for specific occasions to civic and service organizations under the following conditions:
No charge is made
No teacher or other school person is deprived of the use of the equipment or materials
Full responsibility for damage or loss is assumed by the person or organization borrowing the equipment
The requests are not of a recurring nature
Requests for the use of equipment/materials will be approved by the Principal of the school receiving the request.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section EEA STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
Student transportation services shall be organized to provide safe, orderly and efficient day-to-day transportation of students. Transportation shall be provided for all students who live beyond such reasonable distances from their schools as the Board may determine.
All bus routes shall be set by the Superintendent of Schools in order to ensure safety of students and efficiency of service.
The following guidelines shall be observed:
Walking Policies
Kindergarten children will only walk to school by parental choice.
Students in Grades 1-5 shall walk up to three-quarters (3/4) of a mile to their elementary school.
All middle school students are eligible to ride the bus.
Students in grades 9-12 shall walk up to one and one-half (1 ½) miles to the high school.
Distances are measured from the nearest school entrance along a reasonable route to home.
When roads are determined to be unsafe because of hazardous traffic conditions, exceptions to the walking limits may be made by the school administration. Other exceptions may be made when disabling conditions warrant the change. Requests for exceptions may be made through the Director of Maintenance and Transportation to the Assistant Superintendent and the Superintendent of Schools.
Town government officials shall be notified of the roads used by walkers and shall be requested to keep those roads as safe as possible by controlling highway speeds and keeping the roads and sidewalks clear of snow, and by providing crossing guards to the extent possible at intersections and main crossing points when school officials and policy deem such areas unsafe for normal unsupervised crossing.
Riding Policies
Students may be required to walk a reasonable distance to a scheduled bus stop. Students living on outlying roads where bus routes are not established and where the walking distance to the main road is less than one (1) mile, will walk to the designated bus stop on the main road and be transported from there to their designated schools. Exceptions to this will be Kindergarten students.
Stops will be chosen with concern for numbers and safety of the students involved.
Bus drivers shall pick up only at scheduled stops. Students shall ride only on assigned buses. If a student (K-8) wants to ride a bus other than his/her own, he/she must first obtain a note from his/her parents, signed by a school administrator. If a high school student wishes to ride
a bus other than his/her assigned bus, he/she must obtain permission of the bus driver. Drivers are required not to exceed the legal bus capacity.
At the close of school, they shall be transported to the designated drop-off point and they shall not be permitted to disembark at other points or to ride other buses.
The school administration may make exceptions where this is in the best interests of the student and the District. Requests for exceptions to the Board’s transportation policy may be made through the Director of Maintenance and Transportation to the Assistant Superintendent, who shall consider such requests for possible submission to the Superintendent.
Legal Reference: MRSA 20-A 5401 § 2, 5401 § 7 and 5401 § 11
Adopted: July 25, 1989
Revised: February 1, 1993
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EEAC BUS SCHEDULING AND ROUTING
All bus routes shall be set by the Superintendent of Schools in order to ensure safety of students and efficiency of service. (Policy EEA)
Children shall attend elementary school in their assigned school unless a special waiver is extended by the Superintendent. Such waiver shall be reviewed and renewed annually. The District is not responsible for transportation of students in parent-initiated waivers. (Policy IE)
For elementary school students, transportation will be provided from the nearest bus stop to their home to their assigned school. Transportation may be provided across assigned school zones if such transportation does not create additional mileage for the buses, does not interfere with the timely completion of the bus route and does not require an additional bus. Such alternative transportation from points other than the home (ie., babysitters, relatives) may be provided on a case by case basis under the following guidelines:
The parent must make a written request to the Director of Maintenance and Transportation
The Director of Maintenance and Transportation may approve the request if the pick up and drop off is on an established bus route
The alternative transportation arrangement must on a consistent schedule. The pick up and drop off points may not be changed without a written request to the Director of Maintenance and Transportation
Bus drivers shall pick up only at scheduled stops. Students shall ride only on assigned buses. If a student (K-8) wants to ride a bus other than his/her own, he/she must first obtain a note from his/her parents, signed by a school administrator. If a high school student wishes to ride a bus other than his/her assigned, he/she must obtain permission of the bus driver. Drivers are required not to exceed the legal bus capacity.
At the close of school, students shall be transported to the designated drop-off point and they shall not be permitted to disembark at other points or to ride other buses.
The school administration may make exceptions where this is in the best interests of the student and the District. Requests for exceptions to the Board’s transportation policy may be made through the Director of Maintenance and Transportation to the Assistant Superintendent, who shall consider such requests for possible submission to the Superintendent.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
Section EEAE SCHOOL BUS SAFETY
The operator of a school bus is charged with the responsibility for the safety of the students in his/her care. School bus operators are required to know and to observe all laws regarding the operation of school buses and the conveyance of students. Bus drivers are also held responsible for the cleanliness and the sanitation aspect of the bus and to follow the bus driver checklist as outlined in the Employee Handbook, Custodians/Maintenance/Bus Drivers’ Handbook.
If parents are concerned for the safety of their child and request that a bus stop be looked into and changed, a written request will be reviewed by the Director of Maintenance and Transportation
Legal Reference: 29-A MRSA §2051 et seq.
Adopted: 1984
Revised: February 1, 1993
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EEAEA BUS DRIVER REQUIREMENTS/TRAINING/RESPONSIBILITIES
School bus drivers shall submit evidence of good health and present a physician’s certificate each August stating that they are free of detectable physical defects which might cause sudden or unexpected incapacitation. Forms for the physician to complete will be obtained from the Central Office. The School District is obligated to pay the physician’s fees for the physical for all drivers who operate District-owned buses.
Bus drivers are expected to follow the guidelines for job performance outlined in the Employee Handbook: Custodians/Maintenance/Bus Drivers.
Legal Reference: Title 29, MRSA § 2013
Adopted:1984
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EEAEAA DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING OF SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS
In an effort to prevent accidents and injuries resulting from the use of alcohol and controlled substances by school bus drivers, MSAD #34 will conduct a drug and alcohol testing program in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations.
School bus drivers are prohibited from the use of alcohol or controlled substances that may affect performance of their jobs. Such prohibitions include use on the job, use during the four hours before performing a safety-sensitive function, having prohibited blood alcohol levels while driving, and use during eight hours following an accident unless testing has been completed before that time.
Drivers shall be subject to testing according to federal regulations in the following circumstances: pre-employment testing for controlled substances only; and reasonable suspicion, random, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing for controlled substances and alcohol. Refusal to take a post-accident, random, reasonable suspicion, or follow-up test is to be treated as a positive result. Refusal to submit to a pre-employment or return-to-duty test will result in the driver’s being refused employment or not being returned to duty.
Alcohol testing will be conducted just before, during, or just after the performance of a safety-sensitive function. An approved breath test shall be used for alcohol testing.
In testing for controlled substances, urine sample collection and analysis will be conducted by a laboratory approved by the US Department of Human Services. Random drug testing may be conducted at any time that the driver is at work.
In the event of a positive test result, the driver shall be removed immediately from performance of any safety-sensitive function. In order to be reinstated, if at all, an employee must undergo an evaluation by a substance abuse professional, comply with any rehabilitation required, and undergo a return-to-duty test with negative results. A reinstated driver is subject to unannounced follow-up tests six times in the first twelve months following the return to work. Such time out of duty will be without pay or charged to accumulated sick leave.
Any District driver who tests positive for either alcohol and/or controlled substance for the first time will be offered an opportunity for rehabilitation as required under Maine law, with the District paying 50% of uninsured costs. This will not apply to job applicants or employees who are being tested under the pre-employment use provision of this policy.
Records will be maintained in strict confidence by MSAD #34 in a secure location with controlled access. Drivers may receive copies of their records upon written request. Records may be made available to subsequent employers only as expressly requested in writing by the employee.
All school bus drivers will be provided information regarding drug and alcohol use and abuse, testing requirements, copies of MSAD #34 relevant policies, and assistance available for those with substance abuse problems.
The Superintendent shall be responsible for the development of administrative regulations to implement this policy.
Adopted: December 12, 1995
Revised: February 29, 2000
Section EEBA SCHOOL-OWNED VEHICLES
Vehicles owned by the School District will be used in accordance with the provisions of state statutes, the policies of the District and administrative procedures of the Superintendent. Drivers of such vehicles must be properly licensed and will receive training as determined by the administration to be appropriate.
All drivers must possess and carry a valid Maine Driver’s license properly endorsed for the vehicle being operated. Drivers will comply with all motor vehicle laws of the State of Maine.
School Board vehicles are to be used for official use only. With permission of the Superintendent, maintenance personnel may take District-owned vehicles home. School buses are to be returned to the bus garage each evening. Under exceptional circumstances, the Director of Maintenance and Transportation may allow bus drivers to take their buses to their homes between bus runs. This exception is to be made only in exceptional circumstances and is not to be a daily occurrence.
Adopted: February 29, 2000
DRAFT
Section EF WELLNESS POLICY
Purpose
An alarming number of our children are inactive and do not eat well. These unhealthy practices can have serious health consequences that may begin during the school–age years and continue into adulthood. One of the biggest consequences is the risk of becoming overweight. Sixteen percent (16%) of school age children and adolescents nationally or Nine Million students are overweight, a figure that has risen three fold since 1980. The nations’ schools can play a critical role in combating problems associated with poor nutrition.
Recognizing the roles schools can play in combating these problems, Congress included in the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 - a requirement that each Local Education Agency (LEA) participating in a program authorized by the National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 establish a wellness policy. These local wellness policies need to address nutrition education, physical activity, and other school-based activities to promote student wellness. At minimum, this policy must include:
1.Goals for nutrition education, physical activity or other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness.
2.Nutrition guidelines for all foods available on each school campus during the school day with the objectives of promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity.
3.Provide assurance that guidelines for reimbursable school meals shall not be less restrictive than regulations of The Child Nutrition Act and National School Lunch Act.
4.Establish a plan for measuring implementation of the local wellness policy, including one or more persons within the LEA charged with the responsibility for ensuring that the District meets the local wellness policy. The Superintendent of Schools and District Health Coordinator are responsible for the implementation of this policy in MSAD 34.
Rationale
The health of our students is important to the future of our society. As progress has been made toward understanding and treating many diseases, society is also recognizing the importance of establishing preventative health habits early in life in order to reduce risks of developing diet-related diseases. Many chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and cancer are related to lifestyle risk factors, including poor nutrition and physical inactivity. While schools often struggle to raise needed funds, financial considerations should be secondary to the health and well being of our students. Family involvement is important in the development of healthy lifestyles and we encourage their participation in promoting healthy habits.
Millions of young Americans are at risk of living shorter, less healthy lives than their parents. Today’s youth are plagued by risk factors for today’s killers -- chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. While most youth do not suffer these diseases until they are adults, the behaviors and risks that they practice during childhood set the course for their health for a lifetime.
According to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, good nutrition is vital to good health and is essential for the healthy growth and development of children and adolescents. The guidelines also recommend that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week, preferably daily. Schools reach most children and adolescents, making them excellent venues for intervention.
Preparing children academically and creating a robust future workforce are two of the countries greatest priorities. There is a growing body of evidence demonstrating that children who are not physically active do not perform as well as they could academically, and that becoming more physically active may improve academic performance. Research has shown that taking time out of the school day for physical activity or physical education does not harm test scores, but helps them.
Employee wellness programs make economic sense. In addition to reducing demand for medical services, wellness programs provide tangible economic benefit by reducing absenteeism, reducing on-the-job injuries and workers' compensation costs, and reducing disability-management costs. Intangible benefits may be even more important to an organization's overall health. Increased productivity is one of the most important benefits of operating a business with fit, healthy employees. Wellness programs also help to recruit and retain the most effective, productive employees. Studies show a correlation between employees who seek out corporate wellness programs and the most productive workers. Morale is another benefit of a wellness program. These programs are inexpensive ways to show employees the organization is
interested in them as total persons.
December 5, 2005
ADDENDUM
Section EF WELLNESS POLICY
Component One: Commitment to Student and Staff Wellness
Goals:
1.A district-wide wellness committee will be established for the purpose of monitoring and evaluating this policy and coordinating a staff wellness program. A minimum of one representative from each school will serve on this committee. An effort should be made to include food services, transportation, guidance, support and teaching staff.
2.The wellness committee will have a budget line each year to cover cost associated with this policy.
Component Two: Nutrition Services
As required in The Maine Department of Education’s Chapter 51, any food or beverage sold at anytime on school property shall be part of the total School Food Services Program and shall include only those items which contribute both to the nutritional needs of children and the development of desirable food habits, and shall not include foods of minimal nutritional value as defined in this policy and as required by the federal and state school lunch regulations. The School Board or Career and Technical Education Region Cooperative Board, may permit, by policy, the sale of food and beverages outside the total food serve program to: school staff, the public at community sponsored events, the public at community events held on school property in accordance with the facilities use policy and approved school
organizations.
Good nutrition is a prime factor in the student’s ability to learn. In addition to families, the school environment plays a vital role in shaping students nutritional health throughout the growing years. We will encourage the development of healthy, life-long dietary habits through education and modeling.
All foods and beverages must meet the healthy food definition and must be approved in advance by the principal of the school or designees. Food or beverages sold or offered on school grounds shall contribute to the nutritional needs of children, provide for the development of desirable food habits and enhance the District’s health curriculum.
Funds from all food and beverage sales made at anytime on school property shall accrue to the benefit of the school Food Services Program, except that the School Board may establish, by policy, a process whereby a school or approved student organization is allowed to benefit from the sale of food and beverages. This includes foods that are part of the total food service program, and foods and beverages sold at food sales, school stores and in vending machines. Booster Club food sales occurring after the school day has ended are exempt from the current nutrition policy.
Staff will not provide food to students or encourage eating or drinking in the classroom unless it supports the lesson plan, or is a scheduled part of the school day, and is approved by building administration. Classroom teachers may not sell or provide food products or drinks to students during the school day. Food service staff can prepare healthy snacks or lunches for specially approved school activities. Parents are encouraged to send healthy snacks, however, snacks sent to school by parents are exempt from this policy and will not be interfered with by district staff.
Definitions
“Healthy Foods” (adapted from the USDA/Nutrition Label Act of 1990)
·Must be low in fat (3 grams or less per serving) and low in saturated fats (1 gram or less per serving) and contain limited amounts of cholesterol (60 mg or less per serving) and sodium (cannot exceed 360 mg per serving). Currently, there are no FDA standards set for trans fat.
·Foods that are not raw fruits or vegetables must provide at least 10% of the daily value of one or more of the following nutrients per serving: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein, and fiber. Exempt from this 10% rule are certain raw, canned and frozen fruits and vegetables and certain grain products.
·Water must not contain sugar, caffeine or other ingredients.
·Juice is 100% fruit/vegetable juice and that information must be included on the label.
"Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value"
Foods which provide less that 5% of the USDA for each of eight nutrients per 100 calories and less than 5% of eight specified nutrients per serving. The eight nutrients to be assessed are protein, vitamin A, Vitamin C, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, calcium and iron.
Vending
All schools within the district will adhere to the recommendations for school vending machines by the Center's of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the USDA recommendations for food and beverages sold outside the school food services program. (See addendum for a complete list.)
Food Services
The food services program within the District shall be operated in accordance with “Healthy Foods” standards from the USADA/Nutrition Label Act of 1990. Emphasis shall be placed on offering a variety of foods, which are low in sodium, sugar and fat. Foods with minimal nutritional value will be prohibited. Additionally, food should be served in a pleasant environment, which includes adequate time and space to eat school meals and positive supervision and role modeling in the cafeteria.
The Food Services Director is responsible to the Superintendent of Schools for a skilled and efficient operation of the School Food Services Program within the guidelines of the MSAD 34 policies. The decision to purchase irradiated foods will be made by the Food Services Director as deemed in the best interest of the school district. Irradiated foods will be identified at point of purchase in the school lunch program. Loaf bread, hamburger buns and hot dog buns will contain a minimum of 50% whole grain or 2.27 grams of dietary fiber per serving if available on the market. Snack foods will have 1 gram or less saturated fat per serving.
School Activities
School activities that involve students, staff and the public will reflect the same sound nutritional practices taught in the classroom and implemented in the food services program. To create a school environment that supports the promotion of healthy food and beverage choices for children, it is important to consider all venues where foods and beverages are sold or offered. These venues include fundraising, fundraising events, school stores, celebrations, parties, rewards, meetings and other group events. The following recommendations are made to promote healthy choices for children:
·Offer non-foods items to raise funds such as books, gift wrap, candles, plants, flowers, school promotional items
·Include choices that meet the Nutrient Standards or from the Suggested Snacks list.
·Do not offer candy or any “food of minimal nutritional value” as a reward, for celebrations, or any other purpose
Staff
As role models for students, school staff members should be conscientious in modeling behavior and habits that are consistent with what is taught in the classrooms and expected of students. In an effort to ensure that students do not receive mixed messages regarding healthy foods and beverages, it is recommended that staff promote healthy eating patterns in the general school environment.
Component Three: Nutrition Education
Goals:
1.Nutrition education will be taught at each grade level consistent with attainment of the Maine Learning Results.
Component Four: Physical Activity and Physical Education
Goals:
1.Elementary students will receive 150 minutes of physical education per week and middle and high
school students will receive 225 minutes of physical education per week as recommended by the National Association for Health Physical Education and Recreation.
2.Teaching staff will incorporate 10-20 minutes of accumulated time of physical activity into their daily
routine.
Component Five: Staff Wellness
Goals:
1.A minimum of 1 hour will be dedicated to staff wellness at staff workshops each fall.
This time can be utilized with educational presentations and/or a physical activity.
2.A minimum of 2 health educational workshops will be offered to all staff during the school year.
3.The wellness site will be maintained as an educational forum.
Addendum
Nutrient Standards and Approved Food and Beverages
The district will follow these nutrient standards for all foods and beverages sold and served to students during the school day:
Only beverages that may be sold or served in schools:
· Fruit-based drinks that are 100% fruit juice and that do not contain added sweeteners
· Waters
· Low-fat or fat-free milk, including flavored milk, calcium fortified soy milk and rice milk
All snacks sold or served on school sites shall meet the following standards:
· Have 3 grams or less fat per serving
· Have 1 gram or less saturated fat per serving
· Have 12 grams or less sugars, excluding sugars which naturally occur in fruits, vegetables and dairy products
· Be limited following the maximum portion sizes:
o 1¼ ounces for crackers, popcorn, cereal, trail mix, nuts seeds, dried fruit
o 2 ounces for cookies and cereal bars
o 3 ounces for bakery items such as muffins
o 3 fluid ounces for all frozen desserts
o 8 ounces for yogurt
o 12 ounces for beverages, excluding water
o Entree items and side dishes shall be no larger than the portions required by the USDA School Food Services Program.
· Fruits and vegetables shall be offered at any location in the District where foods are sold or served
Suggested Snacks for Vending Machines and Classroom Activities:
· Raisins and other dried fruit
· Pretzels
· Low-fat crackers and cookies (e.g.: animal crackers, fig bars, ginger snaps)
· Granola bars made with unsaturated fat
· Fresh fruit
· Fresh vegetables
· Bread products (e.g.: bread sticks, rolls, and pita bread)
· Canned fruit
· Ready-to-eat, low-sugar cereals (6 grams sugar or less)
· Low-fat or non-fat yogurt
· Snack mixes of cereal (low-sugar cereal)
· Snack mixes of dried fruit with nuts and seeds
· Peanut butter and low fat crackers
Adopted: February 9, 1993
Revised: February 29,2000
Revised: August 10, 2004
December 5, 2005
NUTRITION POLICY EF
Good nutrition is a prime factor in the student's ability to learn. In addition to families, the school environment plays a vital role in shaping students’ health throughout the growing years. MSAD #34 will encourage the development of healthy life-long dietary habits through education, as enhanced by the District's health curriculum, and through an effective implementation of the Food Services Program.
The Food Services Director is responsible to the Superintendent of Schools for a skilled and efficient operation of the School Food Services Program within the guidelines of the policies of MSAD #34. The Food Services Program shall be operated in accordance with "Healthy Foods" standards from the USDA/Nutrition Label Act of 1990. Emphasis shall be placed on offering a variety of foods, which are low in sodium, sugar and fat. Foods with minimal nutritional value will be prohibited.
"Healthy Foods " (adapted from the USDA/Nutrition Label Act of 1990)
? Must be low in fat (3 grams or less per serving) and low in saturated fats (1 gram or less per serving) and contain limited amounts of cholesterol (60 mg or less per serving) and sodium (360 mg or less per serving).
? Foods that are not raw fruits or vegetables must provide at least 10% of the daily value of one or more of the following nutrients per serving: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein, and fiber. Exempt from this 10% rule are certain raw, canned and frozen fruits and vegetables and certain grain products.
? Water must not contain sugar, caffeine or other ingredients.
? Juice is 100% fruit/vegetable juice and that information must be included on the label.
? Bread products will contain a minimum of 50% whole grain or 2.27 grams of dietary fiber per serving if available on the market
“Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value”
Foods which provide less that 5% of the USDA for each of eight nutrients per 100 calories and less than 5% of eight specified nutrients per serving. The eight nutrients to be assessed are protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, calcium and iron.
School activities will reflect the same sound nutrition practices taught in the classroom and implemented in the food services program. In that regard, the following guidelines shall be followed.
1. The only beverages which may be sold or served in the schools of MSAD #34 are:
? Fruit-based drinks that are 100% fruit juice and that do not contain added sweeteners.
? Waters
? Low-fat or fat-free milk, including flavored milk, calcium fortified soymilk and rice milk
2. Fruits and vegetables shall be offered at any location in the District where foods are sold or served.
3. Other snack foods and a la carte items sold or served on school sites shall meet the following standards:
? Contain 1gram or less saturated fat per serving
? Contain 12 grams or less sugars, excluding sugars which naturally occur in fruits, vegetables and dairy products
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? Be limited to the following maximum portion sizes:
? 1/4 ounce for crackers, popcorn, cereal, trail mix, nuts seeds, dried fruit
? 2 ounces for cookies and cereal bars
? 3 ounces for bakery items such as muffins
? 3 fluid ounces for all frozen desserts
? 8 ounces for yogurt
? 12 ounces for beverages, excluding water
? Entree items and side dishes shall be no larger than the portions required by the USDA School Food Services Program.
? Suggested snacks will include any of the following:
ß Raisins and other dried fruits
ß Pretzels
ß Low-fat crackers and cookies (e.g., animal crackers, fig bars, ginger snaps)
ß Granola bars made with unsaturated fat
ß Fresh fruit
ß Fresh vegetables
ß Bread products (e.g., bread sticks, rolls, and pita bread)
ß Canned fruit
ß Ready-to-eat low-sugar cereals (6 grams sugar or less)
ß Low-fat or non-fat yogurt
ß Snack mixes of cereal (low-sugar cereal)
ß Snack mixes of dried fruit with nuts and seeds
ß Peanut butter and low fat crackers
All schools within the district will adhere to the recommendations for school vending machines by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the USDA recommendations for food and beverages sold outside the school food services program.
Adopted: February 9, 1993
Revised: February 29,2000
Revised: August 10, 2004
Revised: June 14, 2007
Section EFE COMPETITIVE FOOD SALES-SALES OF FOODS IN COMPETITION WITH
THE SCHOOL FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM
MSAD #34 supports good nutrition as part of a school environment that contributes to student health and encourages positive food choices and eating habits. The Board believes that nutrition influences a student's ability to take full advantage of the school system's educational program and is, therefore, related to student achievement.
The Board also recognizes that proceeds from the sale of foods and beverages outside of the School Lunch Program ("competitive foods") are a significant source of funds for student activities that MSAD #34 might not otherwise be able to provide.
RESTRICTION ON SALE OF COMPETITIVE FOODS
Maine Department of Education Rule Chapter 51 mandates that any food or beverage sold at any time on school property of a school participating in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs shall be a planned part of the total food service program of the school and shall include only those items which contribute both to the nutritional needs of children and the development of desirable food habits, and shall not include foods of minimal nutritional value as defined in applicable federal regulations, except as provided for by school board policy in certain circumstances.
As allowed by Rule Chapter 51, the Board permits the sale of food and beverages outside the total food program to school staff, attendees at school-sponsored events, and students/staff attending approved career and technical education program.
FUNDS FROM SALES OF COMPETITIVE FOODS
Funds from all food and beverage sales made at any time on school property shall accrue to the benefit of the school's non-profit school food service program, except that funds raised through authorized sales outside the total food service program shall accrue to the sponsoring school or approved student organization in accordance with applicable policies, cash-management procedures and administrative directives.
Legal Reference: Ch. 51 (Dept. of Educ. Rule) (Child Nutrition Programs in Public Schools and
Institutions)
Cross References: JJE- Student Fundraising Activities JJF- Student Activities Funds
KF- Community Use of School Facilities
Adopted: July 13, 2006
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