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Forward
Dear Student and Parent:
Welcome to Scranton High School. Each year at freshmen orientation I explain to our new students that we have the ingredients necessary for them to receive a quality education. We have an outstanding faculty and an excellent curriculum. The third ingredient must be supplied by you, the student. That ingredient is the effort you put forth in your studies. If you work to the best of your ability you will receive a quality education and be prepared for college or the job market.
Take advantage of all that Scranton High School has to offer. From extensive curriculum offerings to athletics, clubs, and activities, something for everyone can be found at Scranton High School.
We ask that parents and guardians support Scranton High School and its efforts to delivery a quality educational experiences for all students.
Sincerely,
Robert B. McTiernan, Principal
ALMA MATER
We pledge our love to you dear Scranton,
Through the years we will be true.
All the days we've been together
Give us memories sweet and dear,
Different roads might lie before us.
In our hearts you'll always be
Our foundation dear ole' Scranton,
Alma Mater we love you…
OVERVIEW
The Policies set forth in this handbook may be amended at the discretion of the administration.
ABSENCE
Parents must phone the main office between 8:00 and 9.30 AM. to report a student absence. On the day following the absence, the student must present to the homeroom teacher an excuse signed by a parent or guardian stating the reason for absence. If an excuse is not received within three (school) days of absence, the absence may be considered unexcused. (ILLEGAL EXCUSE) The school reserves the right to refuse any backdated excuses. Any student who is absent frequently or for an extended period of time will be required to present a doctor's excuse. All doctors’ excuses are to be brought to the homeroom teacher.
Excusable reasons for absences include medical, dental, or legal appointments, religious holidays or a death in the immediate family.
Alternative School (SAVES PROGRAM)
Any student who continually disrupts the educational process of the school may be referred to the Scranton School District Alternative School Program. The program runs during the hours of 3:30-7:30 at West Scranton High School. Students involved in this program will receive credit toward their diploma for every successfully completed course.
ATHLETIC/EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY CODE
Athletes and students who participate in extra-curricular activities are expected to conduct
themselves in a manner that represents the student and the school community in a positive and respectful light. The aforementioned students are highly visible members of the school community. With this in mind, the following is a basic code to be followed by students who participate in any extra-curricular activity:
Any student failing more than one (1) subject will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activity until proof of passing is approved by the principal.
Adhere to all P.I.A.A. rules and regulations.
Refrain from use of tobacco, alcohol and illegal drugs in public, particularly on school property or at school sponsored activities.
In order to participate in any extracurricular activity, a student must be in school the day of the event. Students must be in school 4 full periods and must present a legal excuse for the missing periods on the day of an event to be eligible for participation. This rule will be applied to Friday for any activities that are scheduled on the following Saturday.
A student who is serving an Out of School Suspension will not be allowed to participate in that day's activity. If the student is serving an O.S.S on Friday and Monday he/she will not be allowed to participate in weekend activities as well.
Conduct during school-sponsored activities must be exemplary. Any student, who conducts himself in a manner which is deemed inappropriate or which embarrasses the student, his or her family, or the school, may be suspended from the next activity. Repeated offenses will result in dismissal from the team or club.
Attire for special events such as but not limited to class day, graduation, and special award nights includes dress slacks, shoes, dress shirt and tie for boys. Appropriate attire for girls includes dress or skirt ensemble and shoes. No students are permitted to wear flip flops, t-shirts, jeans or shorts.
Students may not miss more than three illegal days in a quarter to remain eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities.
Students who are truant or have unexcused absences will be prohibited from participation and may be dismissed from the team or club.
Coaches are extensions of the professional staff and should be treated as such. Any disrespect directed towards a coach or club monitor may result in dismissal from the activity.
Hazing of any kind is strictly prohibited by the Scranton School District and may result in severe disciplinary action and/or dismissal from the team or club.
A student suspended three times or more in a semester (ISS and/or OSS) will not be allowed to attend or participate in co-curricular activities for a period of 45 school days. This includes games, concerts, plays, dances, clubs etc.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Regular attendance in school/classes is of the utmost importance to ensure satisfactory course progress and the awarding of credit for a particular subject. Successful completion of tests does not indicate that a student has mastered a particular subject. Instructors' lectures, in-class discussions, successful completion of homework assignments and class participation are major factors in determining satisfactory course completion and credit attainment. Excessive absenteeism from school may result in credit not being awarded for a particular course.
The following is a brief summary of the attendance policy currently in effect regarding absenteeism and course completion.
· All absences are either legal or illegal
· All absences will be considered (including approved vacations)
· Students who illegally miss 20 or more individual classes will not receive credit for that particular class (es).
· Special consideration will be given to medical or court assigned absences that are VALID and DOCUMENTED.
· Any student who is truant, cuts classes or leaves school without permission will receive a zero for all classes missed.
· Students who are absent for more than 10 consecutive days will be dropped from the active membership roles and/or prosecuted under the compulsory attendance laws. Students who provide legal documentation of excused absence will not be subjected to this policy
· Students who fail to meet all aspects of student responsibility and reach the age of seventeen may be dropped from the rolls. P.A. (See STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES)
BOOK BAGS, BACKPACKS, PURSES, COATS AND JACKETS
Book bags and backpacks (large purses) are not permitted in the classrooms, physical education areas, auditorium, library, computer labs or cafeteria. These items may be brought to school; however, they must be secured in the student's locker until the end of the school day.
Coats and jackets are not to be worn to classes. They must be kept secure in a locker.
Any student in violation of this policy will be subjected to a search of such item and may face disciplinary action.
BULLETIN BOARDS
Bulletin boards are located in various areas of the building. All materials to be posted must be approved by the Principal. Posters and displays must not be taped or fastened to painted surfaces in the halls or classrooms.
It is important for students to keep informed of activities by reading the notices on the bulletin boards, watching Channel One in the morning, and listening to announcements over the public address system.
BUS TICKETS
Bus tickets for use on any Colts bus may be purchased at the Main Office on Monday mornings during homeroom.
DIRECTORY INFORMATION
A school may provide directory information without the parent’s prior consent if public notice of the categories of information which it has designated as such information which it has designated as such information occurs and parents are given a reasonable period to advise against such release. Directory information includes the following: name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field or study, participation on officially designated activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. It should be understood that directory information will be disclosed only for purposes beneficial to the student or the school district superintendent or his designee.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Referral of a student to the Principal or Assistant Principal is used after teachers have exhausted all other appropriate, preventive, and corrective measures. Once a student reaches the administrator's office, the case will be dealt with as rapidly, firmly and as fairly as possible. A parent or guardian will be notified in all instances. Students will be given a copy of all discipline referrals which should be shared with the parent/guardian. Any student who fails to report to the principal’s office with his/her discipline referral may be suspended from school.
Whenever a student is suspended for three or more days, the parents must come in for a conference with the appropriate administrator before the student can return to school.
During any suspension the student may not attend classes, participate in school activities, or visit the school grounds
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE
Scranton High School will do everything possible to help a student overcome a drug or alcohol problem. It is the policy of the Scranton School Board to EXPEL ANY STUDENT WHO, AFTER A THOROUGH INVESTIGATION, is found to be a substance abuser and one who chooses not to participate in an approved substance abuse treatment program. This action is necessary to protect the health, welfare, and safety of other students. Any student who possesses drug-related paraphernalia or who indicates the intention to sell or distribute drugs will be reported to law enforcement officials and suspended from school pending final disposition of the case.
EARLY SIGN-OUT PROCEDURE
Occasionally, a student may have to leave school before 3:00 P.M. due to medical appointments, family emergencies, or other extraordinary situations.
A signed note from home must be presented in the main office before 1st period on the day the student is to leave early. This note must include the specific reason for early dismissal, a parent's home/work phone number to verify the excuse, the student's grade, and the time at which he is to be excused.
No student will be excused unless a parent can be contacted. If this procedure is not followed, students may be suspended form school. In every instance of leaving early, the students are responsible for completing any missed work, homework and tests. At the time to be excused the student must sign out in the main office and exit through the main entrance.
ELEVATOR KEY
Any student who is permanently or temporarily unable to use the stairs will be issued an elevator key from the Principal's office. A $5.00 deposit is necessary and will be refunded upon the return of the key. No other students are permitted to use the elevator.
EXCUSES FROM CLASS
(UNIVERSAL PASSES)
Homeroom teachers will distribute one universal pass to each student on the first day of each quarter. The passes will be for any student or teacher initiated movement throughout the school. NO STUDENT SHOULD BE IN THE HALL WITHOUT A UNIVERSAL PASS.
If the card is damaged, the students will turn the pass in to the main office and be issued a prorated pass. If the card is lost, a prorated pass will be available for a $1.00 fee in the main office. These cards are only available in the main office before homeroom.
FIGHTING
Any student who is involved in a fight or in violence of any kind which causes another student to be injured may be suspended from school for ten days. The police will be notified.
FIRE DRILLS
Fire drills are necessary for the safety of the students and the faculty. Everyone should know the specific directions for reaching a point of safety from those areas of the building in which he/she may be. For fire drills, specific exit information is posted in each room. Please read this information and become familiar with the exits close to each room you occupy.
GENERAL RULES FOR FIRE DRILLS:
1. Close windows.
2. Students will follow designated exit instructions, keep in single file, walk quickly, and refrain from talking.
3. The teacher should leave the room last, take the class roll book, close the door, and remain with the class.
4. The teacher will take attendance once the students have reached an appropriate distance from the building.
5. When the all-clear is sounded, everyone will return to his/her classrooms in an orderly fashion.
Fire drills are very important and serious
exercises which may save lives. You are
expected to act accordingly.
GRADUATION PROJECT
In compliance with Chapter 4 of the Pennsylvania School Code, Section 4.2, a graduation project is required of every student to graduate from any Pennsylvania public high school. The project, as required by the state, must include the following components: research, written documentation and an oral presentation.
In the Scranton School District our graduation project will consist of a research paper to be completed in English classes by the end of the first semester of the junior year.
Requirements for the graduation project will be introduced during first semester of freshman year. Investigation and discussion of suitable topics will follow during the second semester.
In the sophomore year, students will choose a research topic, begin research and complete a rough draft. The finished research paper and oral presentation will then be completed in the junior year.
In closing, we would like to emphasize the purpose of the graduation project is to assure that the student is able to apply, analyze, and evaluate information and effectively communicate significant knowledge and understanding.
Should you have any question or concerns about the graduation project, please feel free to call your student's guidance counselor for more information
**The timeline of requirements is modified for the Class of 2003 and the Class of 2004 due to implementation of this requirement beginning in September of 2001.
GUIDANCE SERVICES
Guidance counselors meet with students individually during the school year to assist them in planning their academic programs. The guidance counselor helps students select the most appropriate program of studies to ensure success in high school and to plan for the years after graduation.
The opportunities for college, professional and technical schools, and post high school employment increase every day. All students are invited to explore the various reference materials on occupational training, colleges, financial aid and scholarships available in the Career Resource Room, located in the guidance suite.
HOME ENVIRONMENT
Scranton High School understands that there are home situations which are far from ideal and in many cases make it difficult for a student to learn. The administration, faculty and guidance counselors stand ready to help. Talk with your counselor first. It will be beneficial to you as a student and to the teacher, if there is an awareness of a home situation or problem which is making it difficult for you to learn and for the teacher to teach.
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS DURING ABSENCE
Any student absent from classes for legal reasons is required to make up all work missed. It is the responsibility of the student to see his/her teachers to obtain the work and help, if needed, to make up the assignments.
Students absent for several days may have homework assignments sent home. Arrangements for this must be made through the Guidance Department, allowing time for assignments to be requested and collected from subject teachers.
Legally absent pupils may make up work missed. Any student who is truant, cuts classes or leaves school without permission will receive a zero for the classes missed.
HONOR ROLL
A general average of 89.5% or better earns a student a place on the honor roll. Students must also successfully pass all subjects in which letter grades are given and must not receive any incomplete grades in order to receive this distinction.
LIBRARY
The library is open from 8:15 AM, to 3:30 P.M. each school day. Most of the materials in the library circulate for a specific period of time. You will be notified about the time limits when you checkout the material from the library.
The library is computerized and is equipped with Access PA which allows students to borrow reference materials and books from other libraries throughout the state.
It is essential that students return all materials on time for the benefit of everyone who uses the library. Any lost or damaged materials must be replaced at the expense of the borrower.
LOCKERS
All students will be assigned a hall locker which is opened by a single combination lock for books and outer clothing.
Gym lockers are also available in both boys and girls locker rooms. They require a personal combination lock.
Lockers should always be locked when not in use. Do not give your combination to anyone else. Do not share lockers. Do not leave money or valuables in your locker. Lockers are not safes.
Students should only go to their lockers before homeroom; before and after lunch and gym; and at the end of the school day. All locker difficulties should be reported to Mrs. Nalevanko in room 108.
LOST AND FOUND
The main office is the area designated for lost and found articles. Anyone who finds a lost or misplaced article or anyone looking for lost articles should report to the main office. lf lost and found articles are not claimed within a reasonable amount of time, they will be discarded.
The book room is the depository for any books that are lost. Before checking for any lost books, the student should get the book number from the classroom teacher.
LUNCH ROOM
Scranton High School is a member of the Federal Lunch Program and any students who qualify will be given a free or reduced lunch / breakfast according to their eligibility.
Early in the school year, lunch forms are distributed in homeroom they must be completed and returned as soon as possible to homeroom. Homeroom teachers will then forward these forms to the Assistant Principal. Eligibility letters will be sent home to parents. Lunch tickets are distributed every other Monday in the Career Resource Room at the beginning of each lunch period.
PAGERS AND CELL PHONES
State law does not allow pagers or cell phones to be brought to school. On first offense the item will be taken and the parent must report to the school to retrieve it. Walkie-talkies (2-way radios) and laser lights are also prohibited. Walkmans or other music devices must be kept in the locker during the school day.
PEER MEDIATION
Peer Mediation is a process of conflict resolution. Its purpose is to help eliminate bickering, fear and violence in our schools. Students may choose mediation as a response to a conflict in their school lives. They may ask their guidance counselor, an administrator, or any other teacher for the opportunity to mediate a conflict. The mediation process is strictly confidential. The students will try to find a peaceful and equitable solution with the help of two trained student mediators. Certain issues may not be discussed or mediated, such as drug abuse/sexual abuse. All parties involved are made fully aware of this at the onset of the mediation. Mediations occur in a private area and students usually mediate during non-academic periods.
PROGRESS REPORTING
Deficiency reports will be generated by classroom teachers four times each school year to identify students who are currently failing or may be in jeopardy of failing the quarter. These reports will be given directly to the student during the forth week of each quarter to be signed by the parent and returned to the classroom teacher within three school days. Approximate dates for progress reports are as follows:
· October 3, 2005
· December 19, 2005
· February 27, 2006
· May 8, 2006
REPORT CARDS AND GRADES
Report cards are issued four times each year. The duplicate report card should be signed and returned to the school within three days of receipt. Report card dates are as follows:
· November 9, 2005
· February 1, 2006
· April 12, 2006
· June 9, 2006
Students receiving an incomplete grade on their report cards must make up the grade within six weeks of the issuance of the report card or their return to school. Teachers may assign a failing grade for any student not completing the required work within that time.
Any grade below 70% is failing. Failed subjects must be made up during the summer.
RESPECT
A sound educational environment is built on respect. As a student you must show respect toward the teacher at all times. It is absolutely necessary for the teacher to have order and be organized so that he or she can teach. You must remember you cannot respond to your teacher the way you would to one of your peers even if you feel you have not been treated fairly. The teacher has authority over you. At the same time, a teacher must show respect toward his or her students. Teachers are human. They make mistakes. If you feel this has happened, you should do the following: Ask to talk with your teacher after or before class when you can express your feelings in private. You may see your counselor, principal, assistant principal and you may request a parent conference.
RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
Students who have behaved in a fashion which resulted in numerous referrals to the office or who have received referrals requiring suspension may be placed on a restricted movement list. Students who are found in unsupervised areas or are found in the halls between classes without a pass or are repeatedly late to class may be referred to the office for the purpose of having their names placed on the restricted movement list.
Students whose name appears on this list are restricted to classrooms and are not permitted to leave with a pass except in cases of extreme emergency .In such an instance an administrator is to be immediately informed and the student will be escorted. (This does not include fire drills nor other building emergencies that is potentially life threatening.) Attendance and promptness are carefully monitored. (See form below.) Once a student's name is placed on the restricted movement list, it will remain there for a minimum of thirty school days providing the student has not received any referrals during that period and will remain there until it is removed by the Administration. In some circumstances the restricted movement may be for shorter periods of time deemed necessary by Administration.
SCRANTON HIGH SCHOOL
RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
Name_______________________Grade______Date_________Day_____
PERIOD TEACHER/SIGNATURE COMMENTS: (tardiness, preparation, rudeness, etc…)
1._________________________________________________________
2._________________________________________________________
3._________________________________________________________
4._________________________________________________________
5._________________________________________________________
6._________________________________________________________
7._________________________________________________________
8._________________________________________________________
9._________________________________________________________
10.________________________________________________________
LUNCH 4____________________________________________________
6____________________________________________________
8____________________________________________________
Students should return this paper to the main office at the end of the day before leaving school. Violations of Restricted Movement are cause for additional restricted movement, detention, and/or suspensions. During an assembly or pep rally any student on restricted movement must report to the Assistant Principal's office. Students on restricted movement must eat their lunch in the area assigned for lunch detention, or I.S.S
S.A.P.
The Student Assistance Program" is a group of teachers, administrators and staff who help evaluate and guide students, who are at -risk. Referrals can be made to the SAP. team if a student is having a substance abuse or mental health issue. Students who live in homes where there are alcohol or drug addictions or who are in recovery for substance abuse may join a support group which meets once a week.
Help is available for the student body, and referrals can be made from teachers, administrators, staff, parents, friends, community and from the students themselves.
SMOKING/TOBACCO POLICY
Students are not permitted to smoke or possess tobacco products at any time in the school building, or on the school grounds, or within the area surrounding the school grounds. This applies to all school sponsored activities. Violation of this rule constitutes a serious offense and will result in a referral to the local magistrate for violation of PA. Act 145. A $50 fine plus court costs may be assessed against students found guilty of violating this statue. Additionally, students possessing tobacco products will have them confiscated. Look-alike tobacco products will also be confiscated. Students who violate this policy may be suspended from school.
SNOWBALLS
Scranton High School Students are expected to show consideration for others and to demonstrate self-control and self-respect. Therefore, students who engage in the act of throwing snowballs during the school day may be assigned out of school suspension.
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
The school nurse is available for any student who feels ill or is injured during the school day. The medical room is located on the 2nd floor across from the auditorium. Before going to the medical room, students must first obtain a hall pass from their classroom teacher. If anyone becomes ill during the lunch periods, a pass can be obtained from a teacher on duty in the cafe or on hall duty.
Only the medical room staff can excuse a student for illness. In all cases when it is necessary for pupils to be excused, parents will be contacted. It is the responsibility of the parents to pick up their child, or to arrange for alternate transportation which must be approved by the Principal or Assistant Principal.
Students may never leave the building without permission.
In order to conform to the wishes of parents, they must complete an emergency card for each student and return it to the medical room for use in emergency situations.
Students returning to school after recovering from a communicable disease must be readmitted through the medical room. Communicable diseases include measles, mumps, chicken pox, scarlet fever, conjunctivitis, mononucleosis, and others.
STUDENT PARKING
There are a limited number of permit parking spaces available. Seniors will be given the first option to buy a permit followed by Juniors and Sophomores. Before a student permit is issued, which costs $20.00, a parent/guardian must sign the permit application indicating your understanding that the parking lot is public property and under the control of the school.
Students parked illegally will be towed at the owners expense.
Student Parking- I have read the regulations regarding motor vehicle privileges and understand the privilege may be revoked for violating any of these regulations. In addition, after my fifth unexcused tardy to school and/or 15th absence from school, I understand my driving privilege shall be suspended for a minimum of 30 days. After the 20th absence from school, I understand my driving privileges will be terminated for the remainder of the year.
I also understand that if I receive an out-of-school or a 3rd in-school suspension that will loose my driving privileges for 30 days. A second out-of-school suspension shall result in the loss of my driving privileges for the remainder of the school year.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Student responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work, and conformance to school rules and regulations. Most of all, students share with the administration and faculty a responsibility to develop a climate within the school that is conducive to wholesome learning and living.
B. No student has the right to interfere with the education of his/her fellow students. It is theresponsibility of each student to respect the rights of teachers, students, administration and all others who are involved in the educational process.
C. Students should express their ideas and opinions in a respectful manner.
D. It is the responsibility of the student to conform to the following:
1. Be aware of all rules and regulations for student behavior and conduct themselves in accord with them. Students should assume that, until a rule is waived, altered or repealed, it is in effect.
2. Volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property.
3. Dress and groom so as to meet fair standards of safety and health and not to cause substantial disruption to the educational process.
4. Assist the school staff in operating a safe school for all students enrolled therein.
5. Comply with Commonwealth and local laws.
6. Exercise proper care when using public facilities and equipment.
7. Attend school daily and be on time to all classes and school functions.
8. Make up work when absent from school.
9. Pursue and attempt to complete satisfactorily the courses of study prescribed by Commonwealth and local school authorities.
10. Report accurately and refrain from the use indecent or obscene language in student
newspapers or publications.
PA Code 22-12.2 amended February 1984.
STUDENT SCHEDULE CHANGES
So that valuable class time will not be lost, students will not be allowed to change the classes that they and their parents have selected after the predetermined "summer change dates". Student course requests are compiled and distributed to each student in May. These requests are sent home with each student in a letter that outlines the request change dates for the upcoming summer. No course changes will be entertained outside these dates.
TARDINESS TO CLASS/HOMEROOM
The second time and each time thereafter a student is tardy to class or Homeroom, detention will be assigned. Unexcused tardiness which exceeds three minutes will result in detention being assigned on each occasion. Students may receive a grade adjustment for excessive tardiness to class. Any student swept by a hall monitor will be brought to the nearest administrator.
TARDINESS TO SCHOOL
All students who arrive to school after 8:36 AM must report to the cafeteria to sign in. Students must present a valid excuse for tardiness (doctor's or dentist's appointments) to the attendance clerk.
Each unexcused tardy will be recorded as an illegal absence. The student will receive a zero for all work missed. These absences will be counted towards truancy proceedings. Students will be allowed four unexcused instances of tardiness. (This is cumulative for the remainder of the year; not quarterly.) Disciplinary action may be assigned as follows:
5th tardy = detention 7th tardy = OSS
6th tardy = detention
Attention: Any student who is late to school and does not sign in with the main office may be suspended.
TELEPHONES/CELLULAR PHONES
A public telephone is available in front of the main office for use by students before school, during lunch, and after school. All office telephones are reserved for business purposes. Students will not be called from class to the telephone. Only in an emergency situation will a message be delivered to a student or will the student be allowed to use the phone in the office areas. Students will not be allowed to use public telephones during class time. The possession by students of cell phones is prohibited by Pa. state law PS 13 – 1317.1 Cellular phones are prohibited for students by state law.
TRUANCY
Any student who is truant from school or class will be assigned an Out of School Suspension. After a student is truant (illegally absent) three times, the truant officer and local magistrate will be notified. Charges will be filed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Compulsory attendance Law. Students and their parents found guilty may be fined up to $300, plus court costs, per day. Students who are found guilty will face driver’s license suspension. Continued violations will be prosecuted before a judge.
WORKING TO YOUR ABILITY
The administration and faculty expects you to work to the best of your ability. Our goal is to give you the best education possible. This can only be achieved if you are encouraged to work and learn as much as you are capable of, whether you are a special education, developmental, regular, honors or advanced placement student.
ZERO TOLERANCE WEAPONS POLICY
Any student who is in possession of a weapon on school grounds will be subject to expulsion for a period of not less than one year. The term weapon shall include, but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nun-chuck stick, firearm, BB gun, pellet gun, shotgun, rifle and/or other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. Weapons also shall include look-alike or replica weapons which are not necessarily operable. For a more detailed description of District weapons policy please refer to section A.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
ART CLUB
The art club is a hands-on club dedicated to pursuing special art projects. It is open to all interested students. Over the past few years members designed and executed banners for the school via an artist-in-residence program, created a "sculptural novel" at the Artist for Art Gallery called "Urban Madness," and painted murals. Each year a special project selected by the students is coordinated with annual activities that include stage sets, an art exhibit, and a trip to New York City.
ATHLETICS
Scranton High School offers a wide variety of athletic activities to its students. Eligibility for participation is determined by the regulations of the P.I.A.A. and the policies of the Scranton School District. Copies of these regulations and policies are available in the office of the athletic director. In general, students may participate:
1. If they have parental consent
2. If they have passed the required physical exam
3. If they have not reached the age of nineteen before
July 1st of their last year of eligibility
4. If they have not participated for more than four
years in high school
5. If they have not failed more than one subject
6. If they are not absent from school during a semester for
a total of twenty or more school days. If a student
accumulates more than 20 days of absence in a semester,
they will be ineligible to participate in PIAA sanctioned
activities until 60 days of attendance have been attained
7. in all co-curriculum activities only if the student is
present in school.
Letters will be awarded to those athletes who have completed the requirements of the activity and have been so certified by their coaches. Medals will be presented to those seniors on Awards Day who have completed at least two years in an activity, have previously lettered, and who participate during their senior year.
The following teams play during the designated season:
Fall Winter Spring
Cross Country Basketball Baseball
Football Swimming Softball
Golf Wrestling Tennis(boys)
Soccer (girls) Track & Field
Soccer (boys)
Tennis (girls)
CHORUS
Chorus is an activity which offers students the opportunity to expand their knowledge of choral music and to participate in various levels of group singing. Membership in chorus is open to any Scranton High School student.
The officers of the chorus include president, vice-president and secretary and treasurer. Officers are expected to assist the director and to provide leadership in all choral activities.
The chorus performs frequently during the school year. These performances include Christmas and spring concerts, engagements at area nursing homes, and entertaining at various P.T.A. and community service meetings.
Choral members finance their own activities by obtaining patrons and sponsors for concerts and by conducting sales of various items.
COMPUTER CLUB
The computer club gives students the opportunity to explore new possibilities in the realm of computer technology.
Students that participate in the club will be responsible for maintaining Scranton High’s web page, www.scrsd.org and www.digitalstudents.org, a website created by our 2001-2002 Computer Club, launched in May of 2002.
In addition, team members will compete against other local area high schools in competition through out the school year.
CONCERT BAND
Performance with the concert band is open to all students who have musical training. The majority of the members have participated in band programs at the intermediate level.
The concert band is a voluntary organization which performs at least three full-length concerts and seven shorter programs each year. The members are required to attend rehearsals scheduled beyond class hours.
DRAMA CLUB
The drama club provides opportunities to participate in theatre activities, encourages an appreciation of theatre, and develops performance and technical skills for the theatre. Members assist in providing technical staffing for all activities scheduled in the auditorium, especially the spring production which is produced by the drama club.
Participation is open to all students for a fee of $2.00. Year-end activities include a theatre trip to New York to see a professional production and a banquet to honor qualified seniors.
ENGLISH SECOND LANGUAGE
TUTORS CLUB
The function of the E.S.L. Tutors Club is to promote cultural awareness and to give students the opportunity to experience the satisfaction one receives in helping a foreign student learn English.
EXCEPTIONAL CHILD AIDES CLUB
This club is designed as a tutorial and social experience. Members volunteer from study classes to work with special education students needing reinforcement in academic work. Volunteers also help at Special Olympic events. Students must demonstrate reliability and patience. This offers a valuable opportunity to students who may consider majoring in Special Education in college.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLUBS
The Spanish, French, German, and Latin clubs are involved in activities which promote the languages they are studying. Examples are Immersion Day at the University of Scranton, community members who speak with students and club dinners at appropriate restaurants.
FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS OF AMERICA
The Scranton High School Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America is part of a regional, state, and national organization. Members have the opportunity to develop leadership skills through participation at workshops and conferences. At the conferences, students have the chance to compete in testing events in various business subject areas with students from other chapters. In addition, students develop an appreciation of the needs of others through participation in various community activities. Through participation in F.B.L.A. activities, students have the opportunity to develop confidence and to become responsible members of society.
GIRLS' ACTIVITY GROUPS
Scranton High's girls' activity groups consist of three organizations football and basketball cheerleaders, twirlers, and dance team. Their general function is to stimulate school spirit through the active support of varsity football and basketball teams and the Scranton High School Band. The cheerleaders, twirlers and dance team appear at varsity football games, pep-rally assemblies, and parades.
BASKETBALL CHEERLEADERS
Tryouts for the basketball cheerleading squad are held in March. A tryout clinic is held for one week. The official tryout is held on the last day of the clinic. Professional judges are hired and each candidate receives a score for their performance. The top scorers will receive the open position s on the squad.
There is a Varsity and Junior Varsity squad. The Varsity squad cheers for all varsity basketball games and participates in cheer competitions. The Junior Varsity squad cheers for all JV home games.
Basketball cheerleading practice begins with mandatory summer camp held in August. When school resumes practice begins in late October or early November. Pre-season practice is held for two hours, four days a week. Practice during the season is held for two hours the day before a game.
All senior cheerleaders are eligible for gold awards at the completion of two years of satisfactory service.
DANCE TEAM
Membership: The squad consists of senior and junior and sophomore members who must maintain a high standard of conduct and comply with the regulations of the group at all times.
Officers: Co-captains are selected by a panel of judges each spring from prospective senior members.
Meetings: Dance team meets twice a week after school during the football season, daily during the month of August and at any time upon the call of the co-captains or faculty advisor.
Awards: All senior dancers are eligible for red and gold awards at the completion of two years of satisfactory service. Dance team members may receive a varsity letter upon the completion of one year of satisfactory service.
New Members: Tryouts are held for new members in the fourth quarter of each school year.
SWING FLAG TEAM
Membership: The squad consists of senior, junior and sophomore members who must maintain a high standard of conduct and comply with the regulations of the groups at all times.
Officers: A captain is selected by a panel of judges each spring from the prospective senior members.
Meetings: Football Cheerleaders meet twice a week after school during the football season, daily during the month of August, and at any time upon the call of the captain or faculty advisor.
Awards: All senior cheerleaders are eligible for gold awards at the completion of two years of satisfactory service. Cheerleaders may receive a varsity letter upon the completion of one year of satisfactory service.
New Members: Tryouts are held for new members in the fourth quarter of each school year.
TWIRLERS
Membership: Twirlers must maintain a high standard of conduct and comply with the regulations of the group at all times.
Meetings: Twirlers meet twice a week after school during football season, daily during the month of August, and at any time upon the call of the captain or faculty advisor.
Officers: Captain is selected by a panel of judges each spring from the prospective members.
Awards: Senior twirlers who have performed satisfactorily for two full years are eligible for red and gold awards. Twirlers with one year of service may receive a varsity letter if they fulfill all requirements.
New Members: Tryouts are held for new members in the fourth quarter of each school year.
VARSITY FOOTBALL CHEERLEADERS
Membership: The squad consists of senior, junior and sophomore members who must maintain a high standard of conduct and comply with the regulations of the groups at all times.
Officers: A captain and co-captains are selected by a panel of judges each spring from the prospective senior members.
Meetings: Football Cheerleaders meet twice a week after school during the football season, daily during the month of August, and at any time upon the call of the captain or faculty advisor.
Awards: All senior cheerleaders are eligible for gold awards at the completion of two years of satisfactory service. Cheerleaders may receive a varsity letter upon the completion of one year of satisfactory service.
New Members: Tryouts are held for new members in the fourth quarter of each school year.
MARCHING BAND
Membership in the marching band is open to students of all musical levels in all grades. Prior musical experience is recommended, but not required.
The marching band is governed by a constitution which calls for a president, vice-president, and secretary treasurer who report to the hand director/club moderator.
The band performs at all football games, pep rallies, a minimum of two parades, and local functions which require a musical performance.
MEDICAL CLUB
All students of Scranton High School are eligible for membership in the Medical Club. Its purpose is to give students exposure to the various career opportunities which exist in the medical field and to the fulfillment realized by people in such careers.
In planning activities, special attention is devoted to enhancing an interest already present in club members. Such activities include participation in the annual Red Cross blood drive and at guest lectures by professionals on careers in which interest has been exhibited.
Red and Gold Awards are given to seniors who have been members in good standing for two or more years.
MORNING NEWS TEAM
Scranton High School subscribes to Whittle Communications Channel One News which is broadcast every morning from 8:20 AM, to 8:32 AM. Following Channel One, the morning announcements are broadcast live from the studio in room 226. In addition to announcements and news of interest to students in our school, taped assignments from the television production classes are played.
Students from all grades may join the morning news team. They report to the television studio at 7:50 AM. The members of the team serve as on-air announcers, camera operators, directors, audio persons and copywriters.
NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY
Membership in this chapter is based upon art scholarship, service, and character. The candidate must be in attendance for a period equivalent to one semester in art in Scranton High School. He/she must be a member of the sophomore, junior or senior class and have a minimum art average of B. Members are selected by recommendation from the art faculty. There is a yearly membership fee of $3.00
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
The National Honor Society ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for high school students. To be eligible for membership consideration, students must have a cumulative grade average of 89.5 percent for three and three-quarter years. Additionally, potential members must meet high standards of leadership, service, and character.
Leadership is based on the student's participation in two or more community or school activities, or election to an office. To meet the service requirement, the student must have been active in three or more service projects in the school and community. Character is measured in terms of integrity, behavior, ethics, and cooperation with both students and faculty.
A formal induction ceremony is held in May.
PennSERVE
The coordinator actively recruits students for participation and then interviews them to ascertain their interests, talents, abilities and degree of commitment. Students are currently involved in volunteer activities with children, through day care and tutoring; with the elderly, through service in nursing homes and telephone visits; with the mentally and physically handicapped, through craft and recreation activities; with the sick through work as transportation aids in hospitals. Placement is made through the Voluntary Action Center.
Throughout the year student volunteers do special community projects. They participate in the preparation, service and clean up of the annual community Thanksgiving dinner, and staff a gift-wrapping booth to benefit United Cerebral Palsy. Other activities include acting as elves in a calling campaign to assist in raising funds for Junior Achievement, wrap daffodils to assist the American Cancer Society's flower sale and staff a phone bank at a local public service television station's auction to name a few.
PENNSYLVANIA JUNIOR ACADEMY
OF SCIENCE
The purpose of this club is to generate and promote an interest in the sciences. Participation is open to students in grades nine to twelve. Students who give a presentation are expected to test a hypothesis following the scientific method, to research a mathematical topic, or to write a computer program and give an oral presentation of the project before a panel of judges. Participants are judged in the areas of depth of scientific thought, organization, and presentation. First award winners at the regional level give their presentations at the state level. Applications for scholarships are available for participants in their senior year.
SADD
Students Against Destructive Decision is a nationwide organization established to inform high school students of the legal and physical dangers of destructive decisions, for example, driving or allowing friends to drive after having consumed any amount of alcohol or drugs. Our school chapter conducts awareness activities throughout the year, particularly at holiday, prom and graduation times. These activities include in-school poster displays, student assemblies, red ribbon projects and participation in various national campaigns.
Membership is open to all students in the school, with officers being elected from those members in the senior class. Meetings are held periodically throughout the year and are open to all who have joined or wish to join. Seniors who have actively participated in several of the club projects over the years will qualify for a service award.
SCHOLASTIC TEAM
The scholastic team is composed of seniors, chosen by academic performance, to represent Scranton High School in the Scholastic Bowl Competition sponsored by Northeast Intermediate Unit #19. Twenty-six high schools from Northeastern Pennsylvania compete for scholarships offered by the University of Scranton, Marywood College and Penn State University.
Juniors eligible to compete for a position on the team will be notified in May and will qualify for the senior team by means of a multi-discipline test. Members of the scholastic team are eligible for a Red and Gold Award.
SCHOOL NEWSPAPER
The student run newspaper represents the Scranton High Knights. This window to academic, athletic, and local events is published periodically by the students on the newspaper team.
Membership is open to all Scranton High Students for a fee of $5.00. Interested individuals who are skilled in writing, editing, computer layout, and photography are welcome to join the staff.
Officers include a pair of Co-Editors in chief, Associate Editors, and Treasurer. Editors are elected by the staff and work closely with each other to produce the finished product. Meetings are held monthly.
The newspaper is s reflection of Scranton High School, and strives to uphold as its foremost priority the standards of journalistic integrity.
SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS
The senior class officers are elected in the junior year by a vote of the entire junior class. Any student wishing to run for a senior class office must fulfill a list of requirements. Red and gold awards are presented to the senior class officers who have performed responsibly in their respective offices and have received the recommendation of the senior class advisor.
SKI CLUB
The purpose of the club is to expose students to the world of alpine skiing. The ski club runs ski trips on a weekly basis from mid-December to March. This provides students with affordable participation in group skiing experiences.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The student council is the student body governing organization. The club provides an opportunity for discussion of school activities and determines the collective will of the students. Student council affords participants the experience of leadership, the practice of parliamentary procedure, and the exercise of practical citizenship.
Members coordinate the following community service projects each year: the student Lackawanna United Way drive, the Thanksgiving Feed-A-Friend Campaign, the Heart Association Walk-A-Thon, and the St. Francis Food Kitchen Host-A-Day Program.
Election of representatives takes place the third week of September. One representative and one alternate are selected to represent each homeroom. Officers are elected from senior class.
TATU
Teens Against Tobacco Use is a small group of selected, trained tobacco-prevention educators who present “smoke-free” programs to elementary and secondary classrooms throughout the school year.
YEARBOOK STAFF
The yearbook is a record of the senior class's final year at Scranton High School. Underclassmen are represented in specialized sections about clubs, sports, and school activities.
The Scranton High School Yearbook staff consists of a maximum of thirty members of the senior class. Editorial positions are selected by the yearbook advisor who considers teacher recommendations, scholastic achievement, and involvement in other school activities. Editors and staff participate in fund raising, the organization and selection of pictures, art work, and photography for the layouts, and in proofreading all printed material incorporated into this large publication.
PARENTAL REGISTRATION STATEMENT
(Any willful false statement made below shall be a misdemeanor of the third degree. This form shall be maintained as part of the student's disciplinary record.) 24 P.S. 13-1317.2
Student Name_________________________________________
Date of Birth_______________________ Grade___________
Parent/Guardian Name_________________________________
Address______________________________________________
Telephone Number_____________________________________
Pennsylvania School code 13-1304-A states:
Prior to admission to any school entity, the parent, guardian or other person having control or charge of a student shall, upon registration, provide a sworn statement or affirmation stating whether the pupil was previously or is presently suspended or expelled from any public or private school of this Commonwealth or any other state for an act of offense involving weapons, alcohol or drugs, or for the willful infliction of injury to another person or for any act of violence committed on school property.
Please complete the following:
I hereby swear or affirm that my child was______ /was not____ previously suspended or expelled, and is______ /is not____ presently suspended or expelled from any public or private school of this Commonwealth or any state for an act or offense involving weapons, alcohol, or drugs, or for the willful infliction of injury to another person or for any act of violence committed on school property. I make this statement subject to the penalties of 24 P.S. 13-I 304-A9b) and ISPa. C.S.A. 4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities, and the facts contained herein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief.
****If this student has been, or is presently suspended or expelled from another school, please complete:
Name of the school from which the student was suspended or expelled:
____________________________________________
Dates of suspension or expulsion: _______________________
Reason for suspension or expulsion:
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
(Additional Names/dates/reasons may be placed below)
Signature of Parent or Guardian_________________________
Date___________________________
SCRANTON SCHOOL DISTRICT
POLICIES CONTRACT
I hereby acknowledge that I have read and understand the Scranton School District's policies including the:
• Learning Support Policy
• Zero Weapons Policy
• Drug and Alcohol Policy
• Internet Acceptable Use Policy
Student Signature_____________________Date____________
Expected Year of Graduation___________________
Parent Signature_____________________Date____________