FRONT COVER - Norwin School District

FRONT COVER

NORWIN HIGH SCHOOL 

REGULAR BELL SCHEDULE 

Warning Bell 7:13 

Period 1 AM Tech 7:18 - 8:00 

Tardy Bell and Homeroom 7:18 - 7:34 

Pass 7:34 - 7:38 

Period 1 7:38 - 8:20 

Pass 8:20 - 8:24 

Period 2 8:24 - 9:06 

Pass 9:06 - 9:10 

Period 3 9:10 - 9:52 

Pass 9:52 - 9:56 

Period 4 9:56 - 10:38 

Pass 10:38 - 10:42 

Lunch A Lunch B Lunch C 

Cafeteria 10:42 – 11:12 Period 5 10:42 – 11:24 Period 5 10:42 – 11:24 

Pass 11:12 – 11:16 Pass 11:24 – 11:28 Pass 11:24 – 11:28 

Period 5 11:16 – 11:58 Cafeteria 11:28 – 11:58 Period 6 11:28 – 12:10 

Pass 11:58 – 12:02 Pass 11:58 – 12:02 Pass 12:10 – 12:14 

Period 6 12:02 – 12:44 Period 6 12:02 – 12:44 Cafeteria 12:14 – 12:44 

Pass 12:44 – 12:48 Pass 12:44 – 12:48 Pass 12:44 – 12:48 

Period 7 12:48 - 1:30 

Pass 1:30 - 1:34 

Period 8 1:34 - 2:16 

Dismissal 2:16 

65 

INSIDE BACK COVER

CONTENTS 

Administration…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5 

Board of School Directors……………………………………………………………………………………. 6 

Alma Mater…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7 

School Colors and Mascot…………………………………………………………………………………… 7 

ACADEMICS………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8 

Accreditation…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8 

Class Rank and Quality Point Average…………………………………………………………………….. 9 

Career and Technology Center……………………………………………………………………………… 8 

Cheating/Falsifying Information……………………………………………………………………………… 8 

College Admissions Test…………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 

College Credit Opportunities…………………………………………………………………………………. 10 

Commencement………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10 

Course Selection and Scheduling…………………………………………………………………………… 10 

Yearly Requirements………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10 

Credit Deficiencies……………………………………………………………………………………………. 10 

Exemption from Specific Instructional Activities……………………..…………………………………….. 10 

Final Assessments.……………………………………………………………………………………………. 10 

Grade Calculation Procedures……………………………………………………………………………….. 10 

Graduation Honors……………………………………………………………………………………………. 10 

Graduation Project…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 11 

Graduation Requirements (Minimum)………………………………………………………………………. 11 

Guidance Counselors………………………………………………………………………………………… 12 

Honors and Advanced Placement…………………………………………………………………………… 12 

Honor Roll……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12 

Incomplete Grades…………………………………………………………………………………………… 12 

Job Shadowing Program……………………………………………………………………………………… 12 

National Honor Society……………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 

Postsecondary School Visitations…………………………………………………………………………… 13 

Report Cards and Progress Reports……………………………………………………………………….. 13 

Scheduling……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 13 

Standardized Testing…………………………………………………………………………………………. 13 

Transcripts…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 14 

Transfer Student Conversion Chart…………………………………………………………………………. 14 

Tutoring………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 14 

Withdrawal of Grades/Course………………………………………………………………………………. 14 

ATHLETICS……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15 

Athletic Office…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15 

Athletic Philosophy…………………………………………………………………………………………… 15 

Athletic Awards……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15 

Cancellation Due to Inclement Weather…………………………………………………………………… 15 

Class Absences………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15 

Conduct of Athletes and Spectators at Athletic Events………………………………………………….. 15 

Eligibility for Interscholastic Sports…………………………………………………………………………. 15 

Academic and Curriculum Eligibility………………………………………………………………. 16 

Age Eligibility………………………………………………………………………………………… 16 

Attendance Eligibility……………………………………………………………………………….. 16 

Student Conduct Eligibility…………………………………………………………………………. 16 

College-Bound Student Athletes……………………………………………………………………………. 16 

Equipment…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17 

Interscholastic Sports………………………………………………………………………………………… 17 

Physical Examinations and Re-certifications……………………………………………………………….. 17 

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Restrictions during Suspensions…………………………………………………………………………….. 18 

Steroids and Other Drugs…………………………………………………………………………………….. 18 

Student Insurance……………………………………………………………………………………………... 18 

Student Managers and Trainers……………………………………………………………………………... 18 

Tickets for Athletic Events……………………………………………………………………………………. 18 

ATTENDANCE………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 

Rationale……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19 

Definition of Terms…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19 

Compulsory School Age…………………………………………………………………………….. 19 

Tardiness……………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 

Truancy……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19 

Unexcused Absence from School/Class …...…………………………………………………….. 19 

Unlawful Absence from School…………………………………………………………………….. 19 

Attendance Guidelines……………………………………………………………………………………….. 19 

Acceptable Reasons………………………………………………………………………………… 19 

Attendance Documentation…………………………………………………………………………. 20 

Excessive Absence……….…………………………………………….…………………………… 21 

Unexcused Absence from School/Class………………………………………………………….. 21 

Unlawful Absence from School…………………………………………………………………….. 22 

Early Dismissals from School………………………………………………………………………………… 22 

Family Vacation ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 23 

Home-School Communications……………………………………………………………………………… 23 

Participation and Attendance in School Activities ………………………………………………………… 24 

Right to Make Up Work……………………………………………………………………………………….. 24 

Tardiness……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 24 

Tardiness to School………………………………………………………………………………….. 25 

Tardiness to Class…………………………………………………………………………………… 25 

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS……………………………………………………………………………. 26 

Aeons……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…... 26 

Auditorium Productions Team……………………………………………………………………………….. 26 

Distributive Education Club (DECA)…………………………………………………………………….…... 26 

Familt, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)…………………………………………... 26 

French Club…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 26 

Freshman Chorus……………………………………………………………………………………………… 26 

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)……………………………………………………………... 26 

German Club…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26 

Interact……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…. 27 

Japanese Club…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 27 

National Business Honor Society……………………………………………………………………………. 27 

National Forensic League…………………………………………………………………………………….. 27 

National Honor Society – Norwin Chapter………………………………………………………………….. 27 

Norwin High School Jazz Band………………………………………………………………………………. 27 

Norwin High School Marching Band……………………………………………………………………….. 27 

Pennon……………………………………………………………………………………………………….… 27 

SADD……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…... 28 

Spanish Club…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 28 

Norwin Student Council………………………………………………………………………………………. 28 

Class Officer (Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors) ………………………………………………. 28 

DISCIPLINE ………………………………………………………………………………………………....... 29 

Philosophy……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 29 

Rationale……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 29 

Definition of Terms……………………………………………………………………………………………. 30 

Teacher Detention………………………………………………………………………………….. 30 

Office Detention…………………………………………………………………………………….. 30 

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Saturday Detention…………………………………………………………………………………. 30 

Exclusion from school……………………………………………………………………………… 31 

Temporary/Initial Suspension……………………………………………………………………… 31 

Full Suspension…………………………………………………………………………………….. 31 

Expulsion…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 31 

Loss of Privileges…………………………………………………………………………………… 31 

Restrictions During Suspension…………………………………………………………………… 32 

Alternative Learning Center (ALC)…………………………………………………………………………. 32 

Arson………………………………………………………….………………………………………………… 32 

Bullying/ Cyber Bulling………………………………………………………………………………………… 32 

Corporal Punishment………………………………………………………….………………………………. 33 

Discipline Response Structure………………………………………………………………………………. 33 

Level I……………………………………………………………………………………………………….….. 33 

Level II……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…. 34 

Level III……………………………………………………………………………………………………….… 34 

Level IV……………………………………………………………………………………………………….... 35 

Drugs and Alcohol (Sale/Use/Possession of or Procurement of Intoxicating Beverages, Restricted 36 

Drugs, etc) 

Due Process Procedures………………………………………………………….………………………….. 37 

Harassment or Extortion………………………………………………………….…………………………... 39 

Hazing………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 39 

Incremental Discipline Consequences………………………………………………………………………. 39 

Police Questioning and Apprehension………………………………………………………….…………... 40 

Retention of Disciplinary Information………………………………………………………….…………….. 40 

Status of Student Pending Suspension or Expulsion……………………………………………………... 40 

Tobacco or Smoking Products: Possession/Use………………………………………………………….. 41 

Weapons……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 41 

GENERAL SCHOOL OPERATING PROCEDURES (GSOP) …………………………………………... 43 

Admission of Students………………………………………………………………………………………… 43 

Agenda Books…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 43 

Announcements (P.A. System) ……………………………………………………………………………… 43 

Arriving and Departing From School Campus……………………………………………………………… 43 

Automobile Registration and Parking……………………………………………………………………….. 43 

Book Bags……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 44 

Bus Conduct and Safety Procedures……………………………………………………………………….. 44 

Cafeteria Regulations…………………………………………………………………………………………. 44 

Change of Address and Telephone Numbers……………………………………………………………… 45 

Closed Campus – Leaving School Property……………………………………………………………….. 45 

Dances and Rules…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 45 

Emergency Closing and Delay of School…………………………………………………………………… 46 

Emergency Procedures……………………………………………………………………………………….. 46 

Emergency Evacuations……………………………………………………………………………………… 47 

Excuse from Instruction/Assessment……………………………………………………………………….. 47 

Field Trips………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 48 

Food and Beverages in School………………………………………………………………………………. 48 

Fund Raising…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 48 

Hall Passes and Classroom/Study Hall Sign-Out………………………………………………………….. 48 

Homeroom Period…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 48 

Library……………………………………………………………………………………………………….….. 48 

Locker ……………………………………………………………………………………………………...…... 49 

Loss or Damage of School Property………………………………………………………………………… 49 

Loss of Privileges……………………………………………………………………………………………… 49 

Missed Assignments………………………………………………………………………………………….. 49 

Nurse’s Office………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 50 

Parent Conferences…………………………………………………………………………………………… 50 

Personal Electronic Devices………………………………………………………………………………….. 50 

Photographs and Videotapes of Students………………………………………………………………….. 52 

Pledge of Allegiance…………………………………………………………………………………………... 52 

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Public Display of Affection……………………………………………………………………………………. 52 

Scheduling……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 52 

School DayHours……………………………………………………………………………………………… 53 

Searches of Person, Lockers and/or Automobiles………………………………………………………… 53 

Skateboard and In-Lines Skates…………………………………………………………………………….. 53 

Student Accident Insurance………………………………………………………………………………….. 53 

Student Assistance Program (S.A.P./N.E.S.T.) …………………………………………………………… 54 

Student Computer Accounts…………………………………………………………………………………. 54 

Student Dress………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 54 

Student Identification Cards and Numbers…………………………………………………………………. 55 

Student Records………………………………………………………………………………………………. 55 

Student Spectators……………………………………………………………………………………………. 56 

Telephone Usage……………………………………………………………………………………………… 56 

Vending Machines…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 56 

Video Surveillance…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 58 

Visitors……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…. 57 

Working Permits………………………………………………………………………………………………. 57 

HEALTH AND MEDICAL INFORMATION…………………………………………………………………. 58 

Nurse’s Office……………………………………………………………………………………………..…… 58 

Accidents……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 58 

Asthma Inhalers……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 58 

Child Abuse…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 58 

Communicable Diseases……………………………………………………………………………………... 58 

Emergency Information for Sudden Illness or Injury………………………………………………………. 59 

Illness at School……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 59 

Immunizations………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 59 

Medication in School………………………………………………………………………………………….. 60 

Pest Management……………………………………………………………………………………………... 60 

Physical Examinations………………………………………………………………………………………… 60 

Special Medical Conditions…………………………………………………………………………………… 61 

State-Mandated Health Screenings…………………………………………………………………………. 61 

Student Aides………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 61 

Complaint Policy………………………………………………………………………………………………. 62 

School Calendar……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 63 

Regular Bell Schedule………………………………………………………………………………………… 65 

High School First Floor Plan…………………………………………………………………………………. 66 

High School Second Floor Plan……………………………………………………………………………… 67 

Verification Form………………………………………………………………………………………………. 68 

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261 McMAHON DRIVE 

NORTH HUNTINGDON, PA. 15642 

PHONE NUMBERS 

Main Office…………………………..…………………....…………. (724) 861-3005 

FAX (724) 861-0581 

Edward J. Federinko, Principal EXT. 1241 

Joseph V. Shigle III, Assistant Principal EXT. 1243 

Michael D. Choby, Assistant Principal EXT. 1252 

Donna Lafferty, Nurse EXT. 1273 

Guidance……………………………………………………………… (724) 861-3002 

Daniel Conwell, Counselor (A-E) EXT. 1246 

Wesley Kean, Counselor (F-K) EXT. 1247 

Mary Beth Marazza, Counselor (L-R) EXT. 1242 

Kim Thorsen, Counselor (S-Z) EXT. 1248 

Gifted Education 

TBD...……….………………………………….….……….... (724) 861-3005 

Director of Student Activities/Transportation 

Randall J. Rovesti, Athletic Director…………….………… (724) 861-3006 

Superintendent 

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT 

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION 

281 McMAHON DRIVE 

NORTH HUNTINGDON, PA 15642 

(724) 861-3000 

FAX (724) 863-9467 

William H. Kerr, Ed. D. 

Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education 

Tracy A. McNelly, Ed. D. 

Acting Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education 

Natalie A. McCracken 

Director of Pupil Services and Special Programs 

Maggie Zimmer 

Business Manager/Board Secretary 

John H. Wilson 

Director of Human Resources 

Thomas H. Wrobleski 

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Director of Food Services 

Rod Stewart 

Psychologists 

Lisa R. Banasick …………………………..……………. (724) 861-3027 

Renee Kozusko 

Norwin School District Board of School Directors 

Robert J. Perkins, President 

Thomas J. Sturm, Vice President 

Darlene Ciocca 

Becky A. Gediminskas 

Raymond Kocak 

Jerry O’Donnell 

Donald W. Rhodes, Jr. 

Dennis J. Rittenhouse 

Barbara A. Viola 

6

NORWIN ALMA MATER 

On a grassy hillside 

Spacious wide to see; 

Stands our Alma Mater 

We will sing to thee. 

Norwin High forever, 

We will strive to be 

Always faithful, loyal, 

Norwin Dear, to thee: 

With her colors bright, 

Our banner gleams so true 

Making hearts beat right 

For our own gold and blue. 

Norwin School District School Colors and Mascot 

Colors: 

Blue and Gold 

Mascot: 

Knight 

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ACADEMICS 

Accreditation 

Norwin High School is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. It is an institutional 

member of the Secondary Schools and Colleges, the National Association of College Admissions 

Counselors, the Pennsylvania Association of College Admissions Counselors, the College Entrance 

Examination Board, and the College Scholarship Service. 

Advanced Placement 

Advanced Placement courses are first-year college level courses that follow the College Entrance 

Examination Board (CEEB) syllabus and prepare students for the Advanced Placement (AP) examination 

given in early May. Based on the results of the AP test, a student may earn advanced standing and/or 

advanced credit at participating colleges and universities. Grades issued for these courses are weighted 

in the Norwin QPA calculations. These courses are offered in the following subject areas provided the 

students have met the specific course prerequisites: 

AP Calculus 

AP US History 

AP Statistics 

AP Government/Politics 

AP English Language 

AP World History 

AP English Literature 

AP Psychology 

AP Biology 

AP Art 

AP Chemistry 

AP Music Theory 

AP Physics 

Cheating/Falsifying Information 

Any student supplying false information on passes, library slips, parental excuses, phone calls, etc. shall 

be subject to exclusion. False information would include but not be limited to altering or forging parental 

excuses, making or conspiring to make false phone calls, etc. 

Cheating is any attempt by a student to represent someone else's work as his/her own, knowingly aid in 

an attempt by another student to misrepresent personal assignments, projects or tests. Students 

cheating shall be subject to appropriate academic penalties by the classroom teacher. 

Plagiarism is one form of cheating. Plagiarism occurs when a student copies another writer’s language or 

ideas without giving that person credit. Norwin High School uses an online plagiarism prevention 

company to combat this form of cheating. 

First Offense: 

Handled by teacher; Records, or documentation to be kept by teacher with copy sent to 

building principal. 

Zero to be given assignments, projects or tests where cheating occurred. 

The teacher must notify the parent. 

Second Offense: 

Notification of building principal by teacher; conference held with parent, teacher and 

administrator. 

Student receives failing grade for the grading period. 

The building principal may impose additional penalties. 

Severe or persistent incidents of cheating shall subject the student to exclusion. 

Central Westmoreland Career and Technology Center (CWCTC) Conversion Chart: 

Because a different grading scale exists at CWCTC than at Norwin High School, grades from CWCTC 

must be converted to the scale used at Norwin. The conversion scale is as follows: 

8

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CONVERSION SCALE 

CTC NORWIN CTC NORWIN CTC NORWIN CTC NORWIN CTC NORWIN 

100 100 92 91 85 81 77 69 69 59 

99 99 91 89 84 79 76 68 68 58 

98 98 90 88 83 77 75 67 67 57 

97 96 89 87 82 76 74 66 66 56 

96 95 88 86 81 75 73 65 65 55 

95 94 87 84 80 73 72 63 64 54 

94 93 86 82 79 71 71 61 63 53 

93 92 78 70 70 60 62 52 

61 51 

60 51 

Class Rank and Quality Point Average 

Class rank is calculated at the end of each academic year in grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 by ranking the 

students 

in order according to percent average. The student having the highest percent average is number one in 

the class. The percent average used for determining class rank is based on all course grades earned in 

Norwin High School classes starting with the first semester of the ninth grade. Credits earned in pass/fail 

courses are not used in computation of class rank. 

A student must be in attendance a minimum of four consecutive semesters to be considered eligible for 

the class Valedictorian. 

Quality Points are numerical values assigned to grades for the purpose of determining a numerical 

average. Quality points are assigned to grades in all subjects as follows: 

GRADE PERCENTAGE % Q.P.A. 

A 100 – 92 4.0 

B 91 – 82 3.0 

C 81 – 70 2.0 

D 69 – 60 1.0 

F 59 – BELOW 0 

College Admissions Test 

Norwin High School is a test center for the College Board SAT Program, a program of the College 

Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) and Educational Testing Service (ETS). Norwin’s CEEB testing 

number is 391895. 

The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is administered seven (7) times yearly, and the SAT II (Subject 

Test) is administered five (5) times yearly. The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT) is 

administered in October to interested sophomores and juniors. The junior year PSAT is also used as the 

National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Also offered at Norwin High School is the American College 

Test (ACT), administered five (5) times yearly. 

Registration for all college admissions tests is the responsibility of the individual student. Test dates, 

sample tests, registration forms and fee information are available in the Guidance Office. A complete 

outline of college application procedures is given to all seniors at individual conferences in September. 

9

College Credit Opportunities 

In the curriculum offered at the high school, students are afforded the opportunity to obtain college credit 

through three separate programs. These programs include; Advanced Placement Courses, College in 

High School, and Dual Enrollment. For additional information concerning these programs see your 

guidance counselor. 

Commencement 

Students must successfully complete all graduation requirements by the end of their final semester in 

order to participate in commencement exercises for that academic year. Participation in commencement 

is voluntary, and is a privilege. Therefore, students will not be permitted to participate in the ceremony 

until all outstanding financial obligations for lost or damaged school materials and equipment are paid, all 

disciplinary consequences have been fulfilled, and all commencement procedures are followed. 

Credit Deficiencies 

Students may remove credit deficiencies resulting from course failure as follows: 

Repeat the course the following year. 

Repeat the course in an approved summer school program. 

Senior students with credit deficiencies are not permitted to participate in the graduation 

ceremonies. 

Exemption from Specific Instructional Activities 

Section 1329 of the Pennsylvania School Code provides school districts with the authority to excuse a 

student from portions of a health course when the subject material, in the judgment of proper authorities, 

is incompatible with the student’s religious beliefs. Parents requesting that their child be excused must 

submit a signed “request for exemption” to the school principal. When a student is excused from portions 

of the health course, the teacher will provide alternate assignments from selected materials and will 

adjust unit or semester tests so as not to affect the student’s grade. 

Act 88 and District procedures provide students the right to decline participation in any educational project 

involving harmful or destructive use of animals (i.e., dissection, vivisection, incubation, capture etc.). To 

be exempted, the student must submit to the teacher a written request from the parent/guardian at least 

one (1) day prior to the activity. A student who chooses to refrain from participation in such activity will be 

offered an alternative educational project that allows attainment of the factual knowledge, information or 

experience required by the course of study. If tests require harmful or destructive use of animals, 

students will be offered alternative tests. Students will not be discriminated against for choosing to 

exercise this right. 

Final Assessments 

Final assessments occur at the end of each semester or year in all subject areas and account for 20% of 

the student’s final grade in each course. 

Grade Calculation Procedures 

Each of the five components in a full-year course - four quarters and final assessment - are valued at 

20% in calculating the final course grade. Semester-long course components are valued at 40% for each 

of the semesters and 20 % for the final assessment. 

Graduation Honors 

A student must have a four-year cumulative average of 94% or higher in order to Graduate with Honors. 

10

Graduation Project 

As part of the Pennsylvania School Code Chapter 4, Section 24, students must complete a culminating 

project in order to graduate. The Norwin School District’s Graduation Project is mandatory for all 

students. Successful completion of the project is a graduation requirement necessary for the awarding of 

a diploma. Students will be assigned a faculty member to monitor their progress throughout the process. 

The project will include three components: proposal research, product, and presentation. The research 

component can be completed in a student’s 11 th grade English class. The product component will be an 

extension of the research and presented to a committee of at least three people. The oral presentation 

component is to be completed by the end of the first semester of the senior year. Assessment of the 

Graduation Project will use a standard evaluation rubric. The skills necessary for completion of the 

Graduation Project will be reinforced throughout the curriculum and are aligned with Pennsylvania 

Academic Standards. 

Graduation Requirements (Minimum) 

Graduation is based on the successful completion of twenty-five (25.5) credits in grades 9 through 12 and 

must include the following (subject to change for underclassmen based on the Pennsylvania Department 

of Education testing requirements): 

Subject Area 

English 

Math 

Science 

Social Studies 

Arts/Humanities 

Credits 

4.5 

3.0 

3.0 

4.0 

2.0 

Subject Area 

Health 

Physical Education 

Electives 

Graduation Project 

PSSA 

Credits 

.5 

2.0 

5.0 

.5 

1.0 

All students are required to carry the equivalent of seven (7) credits per year. 

All students must complete the state-mandated graduation project. 

All students are required to take and pass three (3) full-year science courses: biology, chemistry, and 

physics. 

All students are required to take and pass the appropriate Social Studies and Physical Education courses 

required each year as listed in the respective curricula. 

Arts and Humanities courses are taught by the following departments: Art, English (electives), Modern 

Languages, Family and Consumer Sciences, Industrial Technology, Music, Social Sciences (electives). 

The previously listed courses are the required courses necessary for graduation. Should a student fail 

any of these required courses, they must be repeated either in summer school approved by the Norwin 

School District or the following academic year in order for a student to remain on schedule to receive a 

Norwin High School Diploma. 

Graduation from Norwin High School will be based on the successful completion of 25.5 credits. The one 

additional credit will be awarded upon the completion of the 11 th grade PSSA Test, in writing, reading, and 

mathematics. Each test will carry the following credit weight: 

Writing : 0.34 Reading : 0.33 Mathematics: 0.33 

The Norwin School District will assign a percentage grade to each PSSA score as follows: 

Advanced 100% (A) 

Basic 81% (C) 

Proficient 91% (B) 

Below Basic 69% (D) 

These grades will appear on the student’s report cards during the senior year. They will also appear on 

the student’s transcripts. 

Students will have the opportunity to improve theirs scores by taking the PSSA re-test in grade 12. 

11

Guidance Counselors 

A guidance counselor is assigned to each student at the beginning of the freshman year and remains that 

student’s counselor throughout high school. 

Honor Roll 

The Honor Roll is posted every grading period and is based upon all grades. The levels are: 

HONOR ROLL 

Excellent 96 – 100 % 

High Honors 93 – 95 % 

Honors 90 – 92 % 

A grade of 69% or below in any subject will disqualify a student from Honor Roll status in the 

nine-week period it is earned. 

Honors & Advanced Placement Course Percentage Conversion Scale: 

Honors courses are rigorous courses, which demand a high level of analytical reading ability and often 

lead to Advanced Placement studies. These courses develop competency and provide students with 

sufficient preparation for college level work in a particular subject area. Daily assignments that go beyond 

classroom explanations are required and may necessitate independent work. Honors courses go into 

greater depth than the College Preparatory levels. Because of the nature and demands of an accelerated 

course, percentages awarded for some subjects have been elevated. The percent average for each nineweeks 

in AP and Honors courses is adjusted by a conversion scale. 

The percent average for each nine weeks is increased by five (5) percent of the earned grade for honors 

courses and ten (10) percent of the earned grade for advanced placement courses. Students completing 

Honors and Advanced Placement courses will have their grades converted. The actual grade earned for 

the nine-week period will appear on the student’s report card. The conversion scale/weighted 

grade is used to calculate the nine-week average percentage and the Q.P.A. only. 

Incomplete Grades 

A student receiving an incomplete grade on the report card is expected to make up the missing work for 

that grading period within two (2) weeks from the issued report card, unless there are extenuating 

circumstances and the teacher grants an extension with administrative approval. A failing grade will be 

issued if work is not completed as per the agreement. 

Job Shadowing Program 

This program enables 11 th grade students to Job Shadow for one day without attendance penalty. 

National Honor Society 

The National Honor Society is an organization that recognizes outstanding accomplishments in the areas 

of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Thousands of schools are chartered and each chapter 

follows the National Honor Society Constitution and bylaws. 

Membership in the Norwin National Honor Society is based upon scholarship, service, leadership, and 

character. Candidates must have been in attendance at Norwin High School for a period equivalent to 

one semester. 

In order to qualify on the criterion of “scholarship,” candidates must obtain a minimum percent average of 

90% or higher at the conclusion of the previous school year in all credit courses taken. This includes 

accelerated courses. 

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A 69% or below in any subject will disqualify students for consideration as a candidate. Any member who 

receives a grade of 69% or below in any subject, or whose grade point average falls below 86.5% in any 

grading period, will be placed on probation. If members fall below these minimum standards a second 

time, they will be dismissed from the National Honor Society and will not be eligible for readmission. 

Postsecondary School Visitations 

All seniors are permitted three (3) visitation days to colleges, technical and career schools. Students 

must submit an excuse signed by the school official from the school they visited. These days will be 

excused absences and will be recorded on their records, but will not count toward total days absent for 

detention or suspensions. Students attending the college fairs during the school day will have excused 

absences, but the days will count toward the total absences for detentions or suspensions. However we 

encourage students to attend these affairs with their parents during the evening session. 

Report Cards and Progress Reports 

Report cards are provided via Skyward four (4) times during the school year – at the end of each grading 

quarter. Only the final grades are recorded on the student’s transcript. The percentage grade at the end 

of each course is the teacher’s most reliable measure of the student’s achievement based on 

assignments, class participation, projects and activities, daily class work and the final assessment grade. 

A student’s status midway through the grading period may be communicated through a Progress Report. 

When Progress Reports are issued, they are provided via Skyward to the parent/guardian. All students 

receive progress reports if a course grade is below 70%. 

Parents are encouraged to contact teachers and/or their child’s guidance counselor about failing or nearfailing 

grades. Teacher conferences or meetings with guidance counselors may be arranged by phoning 

the Guidance Office at 724-861-3002. 

Scheduling 

Students select courses in February, March and April for the following year during individual conferences 

with their guidance counselor. A student’s course selections may be changed until the published date of 

school. To change course selections within the allowed time frame, the student must obtain parental 

permission and submit the written request to the counselor. Course planning is individualized. Herein, 

student interests, skills and abilities, and goals are assessed. Parent and/or guardians are encouraged to 

participate in their child’s course planning by (1) attending the individualized scheduling conferences, (2) 

reviewing the child’s annual course selection form and (3) contacting the child’s guidance counselor with 

questions at any time. Parent/guardian signatures are required on the course selection sheets. 

Information about required courses and sample schedules is found in the Course of Study Book. 

Standardized Testing 

The Norwin School Board approves an educational testing program annually. The results of these tests 

provide a continuing record of each student’s progress. They are an invaluable aid to the teachers in 

diagnosing individual strengths and weaknesses and in designing effective instruction. These tests also 

provide information and recommendations for course selections. Scores on standardized tests are 

maintained in each student’s confidential school record. No individual or agency outside of the Norwin 

School District is permitted to inspect the child’s school record without written parental permission. 

The Keystone Exam is administered to students in grades 9 - 12 in specific content areas (Algebra I, 

Biology, English Literature). 

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple aptitude test that is administered 

only to interested students in grades 11 and 12 during the school day once each year. The test is 

offered free of charge by the U.S. Department of Defense. 

13

Transcript 

The transcript is a record, beginning with ninth grade, of all completed and in-progress courses and 

corresponding grades earned to date. Also included are class ranks, QPA, attendance and test data, 

such as SAT and/or ACT scores. Student class ranks are available at the close of each academic year. 

To receive an official transcript of a student’s record, the request must be in writing by the student or 

parent/guardian. Unofficial copies of transcripts will be given to students and/or their parent/guardian. 

Official transcripts are sent directly from the Guidance Office to colleges, universities, vocational or 

technical schools, prospective employers, etc. 

Transfer Student Conversion Chart: 

Letter grades from transfer students to Norwin High School will be converted as follows: 

LETTER GRADE CONVERSION SCALE 

FORMER 

NORWIN 

A 96 

B 87.5 

C 75.5 

D 64.5 

Tutoring 

Any student having difficulty with a course may request extra help from his/her teacher at a mutually 

agreed upon time. Student tutors are also available through the National Honor Society. 

Withdrawal of Grades/Courses 

If at the end of the first semester, a student is receiving a failing grade in a yearly course, he/she will be 

required to select an additional course for the second semester. The failing grade from the initial course 

will not appear for each of the remaining grading periods until the final grade. Any such changes made to 

the student’s schedule will only be made when it is mutually agreeable to the principal, teacher, 

counselor, and parent. The final grade received by the student would be a 40%. 

Students experiencing difficulty will remain in all scheduled classes for a minimum of three (3) weeks. 

After that time, a parent conference may be held. If, in the opinion of the teacher, the student is working 

to the maximum of his/her ability and is unable to grasp the material, the student will be removed without 

penalty. However, if in the opinion of the teacher and guidance counselor, the student is capable of 

understanding the material but lacks appropriate effort, the student will remain in the class or will be 

removed with a W/F (40%). Dropping any class will require the student to add an additional class for the 

second semester. Any such changes made to the student’s schedule will only be made when it is 

mutually agreeable to the principal, teacher, counselor and parent. 

14

ATHLETICS 

Athletic Office 

The Athletic Office, located next to the high school gymnasium, is open on school days from 7:00 AM to 

3:30 PM. The phone number is 724-861-3006. 

Athletic Philosophy 

Norwin School District believes that a comprehensive program of student activities is vital to the 

educational development of the student. The Athletic Program of Norwin High School provides a variety 

of experiences to assist in the development of favorable habits and attitudes that will prepare them for 

adult life. The Athletic Program functions as an integral part of the total curriculum and offers students 

opportunities to: 

serve the school 

assist in the development of fellowship and good will 

promote self-realization and overall growth 

encourage the qualities of good citizenship. 

Athletic Awards 

Certificates of participation and letters are awarded to eligible Norwin athletes at the end of each season 

of interscholastic competition according to the criteria established for each sport. Letters are presented 

throughout the year at sport recognition nights organized by their Booster Clubs. Letter jackets are 

ordered once a year each September with jackets typically delivered in December of the same year. 

Those athletes whose coaches affirm that a letter has previously been issued or will be earned in the 

current school year may elect to purchase a jacket. The Letterwinner’s Club contributes toward the 

purchase of the jacket. 

Cancellation, Delays and Early Dismissals Due to Inclement Weather 

The Superintendent of Norwin School District makes the decision to close the schools. School closings, 

delays or early dismissals in emergency situations may be announced via the district website, school 

messenger, radio and television. 

Class Absences 

A student who will miss classes to participate in an athletic event will have his/her name reported on the 

Daily Absentee Bulletin. Students must submit work that is due the day of the absence in order to receive 

full credit. In other words, students may not expect full credit for work submitted late as a result of prearranged 

athletic absences. Work missed due to athletic participation must be completed in the manner 

designated by the teacher and school policies. 

Conduct of Athletes and Spectators at Athletic Events 

Students and spectators are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and appropriate social 

behavior during all athletic events, both at home and away competitions. All rules in the Discipline 

section of this handbook will be enforced. The School District reserves the right to eject any athlete or 

spectator who does not comply with the established student conduct and Western Pennsylvania 

Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) rules, and refer to proper law enforcement agencies. 

Eligibility for Interscholastic Sports 

Any student who wishes to compete for a position on an athletic team should report to the coach of that 

team at the beginning of the season. Before participation in try-outs or competition, a student must 

submit completed permission and release forms signed by a parent/guardian as well as the authorizing 

physical examination form. To be eligible for a team, a student must fulfill the requirements of the Norwin 

15

School District and the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). The PIAA and district 

have established eligibility requirements related to curriculum and academic performance, age, 

attendance, and conduct. Additional information is available from the Athletic Director’s Office. 

Eligibility (Academic and Curriculum): 

A student must pursue a curriculum defined and approved by the principal as a full-time 

curriculum and must maintain acceptable grades as certified by the principal. Eligibility is 

cumulative from the beginning of a grading period and is reported on a weekly basis. Students 

must be passing four (4) full credit subjects to be eligible for the following week. 

The student must have passed at least four (4) full-credit subjects, or the equivalent, during the 

previous grading period. Late work may be made up, providing it is in accordance with the 

regular policies of the school. 

In cases where a student’s work in any preceding grading period does not meet the standards 

described above, the student shall be ineligible to participate in interscholastic athletics for the 

first 15 school days of the next grading period. 

Newly enrolled students must meet and comply with curriculum eligibility requirements. The 

academic standing required for the preceding grading period or previous year shall be obtained 

from the records of the last school attended by the student. 

Upon completion of the school year, the student’s final grades and credits in his/her subjects, 

rather than his/her grades and credits for the last grading period, shall be used to determine 

eligibility for the next grading period. 

Eligibility (Age): 

The PIAA rules state that a student shall be ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition upon 

attaining the age of 19 years. However, if the 19 th birthday occurs on or after July 1 of the school 

year in which the athletic season occurs, the student shall be eligible, age-wise, to compete that 

school year. 

Eligibility (Attendance): 

Based on PIAA guidelines a student absent during a semester for 20 or more days shall not be 

eligible to participate in any athletic contest until he/she has been in attendance for a total of 60 

school days following that 20 th day of absence. Exceptions are made when there is a 

consecutive absence of five (5) or more school days due to confining injury or other stateapproved 

reasons for school absence. (See Attendance section of this Handbook for specific 

district guidelines.) 

To participate or attend in an athletic contest or practice (this requirement is for all activities), a 

student must be in attendance for at least one-half of the actual time that school is in session 

(before 10:30am). 

Students are also expected to report on time and be in attendance for the full day following 

events and activities as well. 

If the event is held on the weekend, students must attend school the Friday preceding the event. 

Eligibility (Student Conduct): 

A student may, at any time, be withdrawn from competition if his/her citizenship is such that 

he/she is considered an unworthy representative of Norwin High School. Expectations and 

consequences regarding student conduct are detailed in the Discipline Policy. 

College-Bound Student Athletes 

In order to practice and play as a freshman at a NCAA Division I or II college or to receive a scholarship, 

the student-athlete must satisfy the requirement of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). 

Student athletes must have eligibility for practice and competition in the freshman year as certified by the 

16

NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse. Information, brochures and forms are available in the Athletic 

Office. 

The NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse has been established to review core courses and high school 

transcripts for all prospective Division I and Division II student-athletes. To be reviewed, students must 

complete a “Student Release Form” and submit it with payment of the fee to the Clearinghouse. This fee 

may only be waived if the student-athlete also receives a fee waiver for the ACT or SAT. (Studentathletes 

should contact their school counselor for information regarding this fee waiver.) The official high 

school transcript and ACT or SAT scores must be submitted to the Clearinghouse. The NCAA 

Clearinghouse then issues a preliminary certification report to the student-athlete and the colleges that 

he/she has selected to receive this information. After graduation, the Clearinghouse will review the 

student’s final transcript and make a certification decision. 

Equipment 

Every student participating in interscholastic athletic competitions receives all proper equipment, including 

uniforms. When joining an athletic team, the student assumes full responsibility for appropriate care and 

timely return of all equipment that has been issued. When a student fails to return equipment or pay for 

equipment damaged beyond normal “wear and tear,” he/she will not be permitted to participate in another 

sport. The coach will issue a Delinquent Obligation Notice to the Administration and Athletic Offices. 

School records (including report cards) will be held until the student returns the equipment or pays for its 

replacement. Students with delinquent obligations will not be permitted to participate in Commencement 

Activities. 

Interscholastic Sports 

Varsity, junior varsity (JV), and grade-level teams regularly represent Norwin High School in 

interscholastic athletic competitions. The school district is a member of the Western Pennsylvania 

Interscholastic Athletic Association (WPIAL), and the PIAA. Season start/finish dates are subject to 

change, specific information is available from the Athletic Director’s Office. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fall Sports (August to November) 

Cheerleading – 9 / JV / Varsity 

Golf (Girls) – Varsity 

Cross Country (Boys) – Varsity 

Soccer (Boys) – 9 / JV / Varsity 

Cross Country (Girls) – Varsity 

Soccer (Girls) – JV / Varsity 

Field Hockey – JV / Varsity 

Tennis (Girls) – JV / Varsity 

Football – 9 / JV / Varsity 

Volleyball (Girls) – JV / Varsity 

Golf (Boys) – Varsity 

Winter Sports (November to March) 

Cheerleading – 9 / JV / Varsity 

Swimming (Boys) – Varsity 

Basketball (Boys) – 9 / JV / Varsity 

Swimming (Girls) – Varsity 

Basketball (Girls) – JV / Varsity 

Wrestling – 9 / JV / Varsity 

Spring Sports (March to June) 

Baseball (Boys) – 9 / JV / Varsity Lacrosse – JV / Varsity 

Softball (Girls) – JV / Varsity 

Track (Girls) – Varsity 

Tennis (Boys) – JV / Varsity 

Volleyball (Boys) – JV / Varsity 

Track (Boys) – Varsity 

Volleyball (Girls) - 9 

Physical Examinations and Re-certifications 

To be eligible to represent Norwin High School in any interscholastic athletic contest, a student must be 

examined on or after June 1 st preceding the competition season of the academic year by a (1) licensed 

physician of medicine or osteopathy or (2) certified registered nurse practitioner. The Norwin School 

District will have the school physician perform physical examinations the week of June 1 st at no cost. The 

date of these athletic physical examinations will be posted in school, on the district website, in Network, 

17

the district newsletter, and in local newspapers. It is the responsibility of students to become aware of 

these dates and times. 

The examination for fall sports must be given on or after June 1 st immediately prior to the school year of 

participation. Re-certification for a second or third sport in the same academic year is required. The recertification 

by parent for all other sports must not be completed earlier than six (6) weeks prior to the 

beginning of practice for each applicable sport using the Norwin School District Recertification Form. 

If a significant injury or illness has occurred since the primary physical examination, a medical release will 

be required to participate in any sport. 

Restrictions During Suspension from School 

Students under suspension from school are not permitted, on the dates of the suspension, to participate, 

in any capacity, in all extra-curricular activities including sports, and/or any activity representing the 

Norwin School District. If the extra-curricular activity is part of the academic evaluation, an alternative 

assignment must be given. 

If a suspension period includes a weekend or vacation day(s) the student is ineligible to participate in any 

school activity until the suspension period is completed. 

If the event is held on the weekend, students must attend school the last school day of the week 

preceding the event. 

Steroids and Other Drugs 

School Board policy prohibits students involved in school-related athletics from using anabolic steroids, 

except with valid medical reason. Bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, increasing muscle bulk or 

strength, and enhancing athletic ability are not considered valid medical purposes. School Board policy 

also prohibits students from distributing, dispensing, possessing, using or being under the influence of 

any controlled substance, the definition of which includes anabolic steroids, at any time. 

Student Insurance 

One of the major concerns shared by all is the safety and well being of our students and athletes. The 

Norwin Board of School Directors, sharing this concern, elected to purchase athletic insurance for all 

athletes including band members and cheerleaders. This plan is designed to work in conjunction with 

parental insurance. Details can be obtained from the Athletic Director’s Office. 

Student Managers and Trainers 

Student managers for each team are chosen from those students who have made application through the 

coach, the athletic director, and/or the trainer. Managers and trainers are awarded a letter if they have 

served satisfactorily for two (2) seasons. 

Tickets for Athletic Events 

Student passes for home football games, soccer games, girls’ and boys’ basketball, lacrosse, field 

hockey, and wrestling are offered to students at the beginning of the season at a nominal price and at 

considerable savings over the cost of single tickets. Student tickets for football away games and WPIAL 

playoff games are generally sold at reduced prices in the Athletic Office for several days preceding the 

game. Single student tickets to home games must be purchased in advance. No student-priced tickets 

are sold at the door/gate. 

18

ATTENDANCE 

Rationale 

In order for Norwin School District students to benefit from the District's planned educational program, it is 

necessary that they be in regular attendance. Regular attendance is a prerequisite for educating the 

children of our district. Curricula are planned and courses taught as a progression of learning activities 

and ideas. When students are absent, they miss one or more steps in the learning hierarchy; absent 

students cannot be taught. 

The laws covering school attendance are explicit, and attendance shall be required of all enrolled 

students when school is in session. Parents and guardians are legally responsible for their child's 

attendance at school. 

The school district will assist parents and school-age children who are experiencing attendance problems. 

Such assistance may involve frequent parental contact, counseling and/or psychological services 

provided within the resources of the school system, or referral to agencies that provide support to the 

school district. It may also be necessary to invoke disciplinary action, as suggested by the Discipline 

Policy and Response Structure. Since parents and guardians are legally responsible for their child's 

attendance at school, they may find themselves in conflict with the law. 

Definition of Terms 

Section 1328 of the Pennsylvania School Code requires that every child of compulsory school age, 

having legal residence in the Commonwealth, attend public school or private school meeting standards 

prescribed the State Board of Education. “Every parent, guardian or other person having control or 

charge of any child of school age is required to send such child to school.” The Pennsylvania School 

Code (PS-13-1333) stipulates compulsory school attendance requirements and penalties for violations. 

The following definitions are provided to assist in understanding the policies and procedures established 

by the Board of School Directors: 

Compulsory School Age: 

The period of a child's life from the time the child's parents elect to have the child enter school, 

which shall not be later than eight (8) years of age, until the age of 17 years. 

Tardiness: 

Absence of a student at the time a given class and/or school day begins, provided the student is 

in attendance before the close of that class or day. Students arriving after 10:30am will 

receive both a tardy and ½-day absence. 

Truancy: 

The failure of a child to attend school regularly as required by law without acceptable reason, or 

willful violation of the compulsory attendance laws. 

Unexcused Absence: 

The absence from school of a pupil who is not excused by the attendance officer or principal. 

Unlawful Absence: 

The unexcused absence of a pupil under 17 years of age. 

Attendance Guidelines 

Acceptable Reasons: 

Attendance is required of all enrolled students during the days that school is in session. A student's 

absence is excusable when one of the following conditions presents reasonable cause for absence from 

school: 

19

illness/quarantine 

recovery from accident 

required court attendance 

death in immediate family 

observance of a major religious holiday 

family trip, college or post-secondary school visit approved by the Administration as per 

Board policy 

urgent reasons determined acceptable by the Administration 

Most absences for other reasons are unexcused and may be classified as parental neglect or truancy. 

Students will be considered to be in attendance if they are: 

receiving approved tutorial instruction or health care 

engaged in an approved supervised work study or career education program 

receiving approved homebound instruction 

on a school approved activity and sponsored field trip 

Absences for reasons not listed above or not approved on a special basis by the school administration 

shall be recorded as unexcused. 

Absences for a portion of the school day, class cuts, early dismissals, and tardiness will be considered on 

a cumulative basis and may be translated into equivalent days of absence. 

In instances where the school administration believes that absences due to illness are chronic and/or 

irregular or there is reason to question the absence of a child, the Administration may request a 

physician's statement certifying the date(s) of absence. 

Attendance Documentation: 

Upon return to school after an absence, the student must always present an Excuse for Absence Form 

and appropriate documentation to the Attendance Table within three (3) days of the student’s return to 

school. Completing the school-provided Excuse for Absence Form will result in the necessary information 

being submitted for proper records. If the Excuse for Absence Form and appropriate documentation 

is not presented by homeroom period of the fourth day following the absence, the absence will be 

unexcused. 

The responsibility for providing the excuse rests upon the student and parent, not upon the school district. 

The parent/guardian(s) may verify that the excuse has been presented to the school by: 

asking their child 

phoning the school 

faxing, emailing ,mailing, or delivering it to the school themselves 

In order for a medical excuse to be valid, it must be submitted within five (5) school days upon the 

student’s return. Medical excuses will not be included when considering disciplinary action and/or loss of 

privileges due to excessive absences. Eighteen-year-old students who are not considered independent 

and self-supporting must still have a parent/guardian signature on any absence, early dismissal or tardy 

note. 

Absences not excused by the methods outlined above, or which are for unlawful reason, will be 

designated unexcused and unlawful. 

Students who fail to obtain an admit slip upon returning to school will be subject to disciplinary 

action which may consist of detention, suspension, and/or loss of privileges. 

Excuses determined to be a forgery, or to be willfully false, will be considered invalid. The resultant 

action may be the recording of the absence as unexcused/unlawful and school or legal disciplinary 

responses as per the State Code and School Board policies. 

The Administration may refuse to accept a parent/guardian written excuse and may require physician, or 

other appropriate, verification for the stated reason of absence. 

20

Excessive Absence 

Excessive absence, whether it is excused or unexcused, may seriously affect a student's performance in 

school. This includes excessive full day absence, tardiness, and early dismissals. 

Absence notes from physicians are defined as medically approved; excuses from parents are nonmedically 

approved. In order for a medical excuse to be valid, it must be submitted within five (5) 

school days upon the student’s return. Medical excuses do not count towards excessive 

absences. 

Excuses for chronic and persistent medical conditions must be updated and renewed each school 

year by a physician. 

When a pupil accumulates seven (7) days of Non-Medical absences, a letter of notification will be sent to 

the parent/guardian(s). It may be determined that a physician's excuse is required for each subsequent 

absence. 

When excessive absences total ten (10) or more, a second letter will be sent. Medical excuses will be 

required for all future absences to be considered legal absences, and they must be provided 

IMMEDIATELY upon his returning to school. 

After ten (10) non-medical days of absence, the student will be subject to disciplinary action if 

proper procedures are not followed. 

Student who are of non-compulsory school age and are chronically absent beyond the 

permissible ten (10) days of non-medical absences are subject to being removed from the rolls of 

the Norwin School District. 

The following chart lists the loss of privilege consequences for excessive Non-Medical absences. 

NON-MEDICAL DAYS ABSENT COUNT 

7 

10 

CONSEQUENCE 

Loss of privileges for one week 

Letter of notification 

Loss of privileges for remainder of the year 

Letter of notification 

Often times, the school may not be aware of a medical concern that hinders a student’s ability to attend 

school on a regular basis. A physician's statement should be provided which can be taken into 

consideration in support of recurring absences. The district will consider modifying educational programs 

to meet particular needs. Homebound instruction tutoring is also available where instruction in the school 

cannot be given due to the physical incapacity of the student. Requests for homebound instruction may 

be made through the Guidance Office. 

Unexcused Absence from School/Class 

The parent or guardian will be notified of unexcused absences from school. The Discipline Response 

Structure will be applied on each occasion. Also, teachers will be informed of all unexcused absences, so 

that points for any missed work on those days are not included in grade calculations. 

Class cutting and truancy are considered serious offenses and may require the services of our school 

psychologist, WIU, Child Welfare, courts and similar support agencies. 

Any student who leaves a class or does not report to class without the permission of the teacher, will 

receive a Saturday Detention. 

21

Unlawful Absence from School 

When a student has accumulated three days of unlawful absence, the student will be referred to the 

Attendance Office and/or Principal. The school district will then serve notice upon the parent/guardian(s) 

in accordance with the Compulsory School Attendance Laws. After this notice is served, the next 

unlawful absence by a pupil becomes a second offense, and truancy charges will be appropriately filed 

through the local magistrate. 

Early Dismissal 

Due to the difficulty in arranging appointments with various health care services, students may find it 

necessary to leave school for a portion of the school day to keep such appointments. 

If a student is released from school prior to 10:30 a.m. and does not return to school the student will 

receive a ½ day absence, and an Excuse for Early Dismissal along with appropriate verified 

documentation must be provided to the Attendance Table upon return to school. If a student is released 

after 10:30 a.m. it will be recorded as an early dismissal. The student must provide an Excuse for Early 

Dismissal along with appropriate verified documentation to the Attendance Table upon return to 

school. This is in effect for both early dismissals and early releases through the nurse’s office. If proper 

documentation is not provided, the student will be subject to disciplinary action and the right to make up 

work will be forfeited. 

The following reasons for Early Dismissals will be recorded as verified and will not count against the 

student for disciplinary purposes if the following documentation is provided: 

family bereavement 

family educational trip as approved by the building principal (see Family Educational 

Trips Section) 

family emergencies as determined by individual cases 

legal or judicial proceedings (pupil involved) 

job interview (school pre-approval) 

medical appointment 

military physicals 

school or church-related conferences 

visits to institutions of higher education, which includes placement testing (preapproval 

necessary through completed guidance form) 

religious observances 

Pupils who become ill during the school day must report to the Nurse's Office. Such pupils may not leave 

the building unless excused by the Nurse or Principal. These pupils must complete the Early Dismissal 

Request Form and adhere to the procedures outlined above, or have the nurse notify the Attendance 

Office of the circumstances when the pupil leaves. Ill students who request an Early Dismissal by 

contacting their parent/guardian without going through the Nurse or Principal will have their Early 

Dismissal recorded as unexcused and disciplinary action may be taken. 

Completing the school-provided Early Dismissal Request Form will result in the necessary information 

being submitted for proper records. If the parent/guardian authorizes the student to drive him/her self, the 

appropriate section must be completed on the Early Dismissal Request Form. This request is to be 

submitted to the Attendance Office upon arrival to school. If a student will be driving him/herself to the 

appointment, a phone call by the parent/guardian should be made the day before. If parent verification 

cannot be made, the student will not be dismissed. 

Upon the arrival of the parent/guardian, the student will be called from their class to report to the 

Attendance Office to meet the parent/guardian (unless driving him/her self). The parents/guardian will 

be required to sign out their son/daughter in the Attendance Office. If returning to school the same 

day following an appointment, the student must sign into the Attendance Office. 

Failure to produce an Excuse for Early Dismissal along with appropriate verified documentation will 

result in the Early Dismissal being recorded as unexcused, and credit will not be given for missed 

work. Appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the Compulsory School Attendance Act and/or 

22

the Discipline Policy and Response Structure will also be imposed. Specifically, truancy charges will be 

filed for students under 17 years of age; for those students aged 17 and above, lack of regular attendance 

may result in removal from the school roster. Any questionable excuse requests are to be referred to the 

Principal’s office. 

The Excuse for Early Dismissal Form and appropriate verified documentation will only be accepted the 

day of the Early Dismissal (if returning before the end of the day) or upon the students return to school. 

Under no circumstance may a pupil leave the building during the day without securing permission 

through the Attendance Office. 

Consequences for accumulating excessive Non-Verified Early Dismissals are as follows: 

NON-VERIFIED EARLY DISMISSAL COUNT 

CONSEQUENCE 

5 One Office Detention 

7 

10 

13 

One Saturday Detention 

Loss of privileges for one month 

Three-day suspension 


Three - Ten day suspension 

Hearing with Superintendent or designee 


Family Educational Trip 

Students are encouraged to take vacations during days when school is not is session. However, when it 

becomes necessary to take educational trips during school, parents/guardians must submit a request in 

writing by completing the pre-approved vacation form and submitting it to the principal. The principal will 

determine whether or not the trip is an excused absence. Students will be responsible for making up any 

work missed and should secure assignments from their teachers prior to leaving for vacation. No more 

than one (1) trip per school year will be approved. Family Educational Trip absences will count toward 

disciplinary action for excessive absences and loss of privileges. When a vacation is unapproved, days 

missed will be unlawful/unexcused. 

Family educational trips may be approved if: 

the school is notified in writing at least two (2) weeks prior to the trips; 

the student is willing to make up missed work; 

the trip does not exceed a total of five (5) school days; 

the student has accumulated ten (10) days or less of absence; 

the trip does not occur during standardized testing dates (i.e., PSSA, Keystone, etc) 

Home - School Communication 

Parental attitude is a factor that greatly influences the regularity of student attendance. Therefore, 

communication and cooperation between home and school are critical. The information herein fulfills the 

school’s responsibility to inform the parents of the attendance regulations which apply to their child. 

The principal may call upon the services of the support staff of the school, district, or county to improve 

the attendance of a student. This would include the guidance staff, nurse, psychologist, attendance 

officer, home and school visitor, probation officers, juvenile court, Westmoreland Intermediate Unit, Child 

Welfare and other student support services. Any one or a combination of the following methods may be 

employed to enhance home-school communication: 

23

Phone Calls: 

Phone calls provide an immediate, yet informal, opportunity to discuss the absence of a child. 

Such contacts may be made to verify excuses, discuss attendance problems, or the reasons 

for absence of a student. 

Written Correspondence: 

Such correspondence will serve to formalize a concern that, if unmodified, may lead to serious 

disciplinary action and/or legal intervention. 

Conferences: 

These conferences provide a method to involve various support agencies along with the 

parent and school personnel to collectively provide for the needs of the student. 

Home Visitations: 

Home visitations will be made to bring together the efforts of the school, home, and community 

to better identify and assist with home problems a child may be experiencing that are affecting 

performance at school. For most children in school, communication with the parents and a 

cooperative home-school environment are the most effective methods of achieving and 

maintaining good attendance. Parents need to know why school is important, believe that 

regular attendance is vital, and communicate this attitude to their children. For the minority of 

parents who are unwilling or unable to insist upon regular attendance, the penalties and 

procedures for unlawful absence are clearly specified. 

Participation and Attendance in School Activities 

To participate in or attend any school activity, a student must be in attendance for at least one-half of the 

actual time that school is in session (after fourth period). Students are also expected to report on time 

and be in attendance for the full day following events and activities as well. If the event is held on the 

weekend, students must attend school the Friday preceding the event. 

Right to Make Up Work 

Students have the right to make up all class work missed due to suspension or excused absences. In the 

case of unexcused absences, class work, including tests, quizzes, and assignments, will be made up 

without earning the associated points. This policy also applies to unexcused absences caused by class 

cutting and unexcused early dismissals or tardies. 

Students who are unexpectedly absent are responsible for all work missed and must initiate the request 

with teachers on the first day back to school. Teachers will be required to articulate specific timelines for 

make-up work to be completed. Teacher discretion is permitted in all cases and specifically with respect 

to tests and long-term projects. In general, however, make-up time should be one (1) day for each day 

missed. 

See “Missed Assignments” in the General School Operating Procedures section of the Handbook for 

procedures regarding advance notice absences due to school activities and pre-approved trips, college 

visits, etc. 

Tardiness 

The habit of tardiness is a serious obstacle to the success of any individual in adult life. Just as for any 

employee, it is only under the most unusual circumstances that pupil tardiness can be justified. 

Tardiness, to school or class, tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school. Parents will be alerted of 

their child's tardiness and their assistance requested in preventing further occurrences. Chronic tardiness 

will result in disciplinary action as suggested by the Discipline Response Structure. Chronic tardiness 

could result in loss of privileges including but not limited to extracurricular activities. Any pupil who has 

not entered Homeroom before the 7:18 bell is considered tardy. Such students will not be admitted to 

homeroom without first securing an admission slip from the Attendance Office, which will be documented 

as an unexcused tardy. 

24

An Excuse for Tardy Form along with appropriate verified documentation must be provided to the 

Attendance Office upon arrival to school. If a student arrives after 10:30am they will receive a ½ day 

absence in addition to their Tardy. Completing the Excuse for Tardy Form will result in the necessary 

information being submitted for proper records. 

The following reasons for Tardiness will be recorded as verified and will not count against the student 

for disciplinary purposes if the following documentation is provided: 

family bereavement 

family educational trip as approved by the building principal (see Family Educational 

Trips Section) 

family emergencies as determined by individual cases 

legal or judicial proceedings (pupil involved) 

job interview (school pre-approval) 

medical appointment 

military physicals 

school or church-related conferences 

visits to institutions of higher education, which includes placement testing (preapproval 

necessary through completed guidance form) 

religious observances 

All tardy excuses will be accepted only on the day the student is tardy. 

Consequences for accumulating excessive Non-Verified Tardies are as follows: 

NON-VERIFIED TARDY COUNT 

CONSEQUENCE 

5 One Office Detention 

7 

10 

13 

One Saturday Detention 




Three - Ten day suspension 



Tardiness to Class: 

Any pupil who has not entered his/her assigned class before the late bell is considered tardy. Such 

tardiness may only be excused if an admittance slip is furnished from the teacher of the previous class. 

School Offices will issue a tardy permit only if the lateness is due to office action/intervention. The 

classroom teacher will administer discipline for classroom tardiness. Chronic classroom tardiness will be 

referred to the High School Administration Office for discipline. 

25

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS 

Aeons 

Aeons is an annual literary arts publication distributed in the spring. The Aeons staff consists of members 

and editorial board personnel. The editorial board is responsible for evaluating contributed material on an 

anonymous basis according to guidelines posted at the beginning of the year. Students may contribute 

artwork, photography, poetry, and prose during the designated submission period throughout the fall and 

early spring. Final printed materials are determined by vote of the editorial board. 

Auditorium Productions Team 

The Auditorium Productions Team provides technical assistance for functions in the high school 

auditorium. Students have an opportunity to run the lighting and sound systems and provide technical 

assistance on the stage. Application for membership is accepted at the beginning of the school year. 

Distributive Education Club of America (DECA) 

DECA is a vocational organization designed to enhance a specific career objective in marketing, 

management, or distribution. Any sophomore, junior, or senior student enrolled in the marketing 

education instructional program is eligible for membership in DECA. 

Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) 

FCCLA promotes personal growth and leadership development through Family and Consumer Science 

Education. Members will develop their skills for life through character development, creative and critical 

thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation. 

French Club 

French Club members are French III and French IV students. The club is designed to increase the 

students’ knowledge of France and of the French culture. It takes students beyond the classroom into 

such places as art museums, restaurants, and the theater. 

Freshman Chorus 

Freshman Chorus is open to all freshman students. Students who participate for the full year will perform 

in two concerts during the year and will receive one credit for the course. Students who take the class for 

only one semester will receive one-half credit and perform in one concert. The organization also provides 

opportunities for talented students to sing in small groups of three or four students in addition to the 

regular choral activities. Stage presence, projection, and vocal technique are all emphasized during the 

class. Students learn both leadership skills and cooperation. 

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) 

FBLA) is a national student organization for secondary students enrolled in business or business-related 

classes. FBLA helps students develop leadership abilities and prepare for entry into, and advancement 

within a business occupation. Members learn how to engage in business enterprise, how to direct the 

affairs of a group, and how to participate honorably in competitive events. These activities help prepare 

students to be better employees. Members must be enrolled in or have completed at least one business 

course. 

German Club 

All students studying German are members of the German Club, an organization that seeks to broaden 

students’ awareness and understanding of German culture and history. 

26

Interact Club 

The Interact Club is a service club that is affiliated with the local Rotary organization. Its membership is 

open to any senior high student. Its primary function is to offer voluntary services to school and 

community. It may help to clean up the school, participate in road clean-ups, and help out with school 

functions such as Homecoming or the Senior Citizens Banquet. 

Japanese Club 

The Japanese Club’s main goal is to introduce the Japanese culture to its members. Club members 

experience food, history, and general culture through field trips to PSU and the Carnegie Museum. The 

Japanese Club is open to all students of Japanese. 

National Business Honor Society 

The purpose of the National Business Honor Society is to promote scholarship and to create and 

encourage interest in business, which will help the members to grow ethically, intellectually, and socially. 

Membership is based upon scholarship and professional attitudes. The student’s general scholastic 

record during the junior year and the first semester of the senior year will be the basis upon which the 

scholastic achievements for membership are determined. 

National Forensic League (NFL) 

The national league is an Honor Society for students in grade 9-12 that promote secondary school 

speech and debate activities and interscholastic competition as a means to develop a student’s lifelong 

skills and values. The NFL empowers students to become effective communicators, ethical individuals, 

critical thinkers, and leaders in a democratic society. 

National Honor Society – Norwin Chapter 

Membership in the National Honor Society is both an honor and a responsibility. Students selected for 

membership are expected to continue to demonstrate the qualities of scholarship, service, leadership and 

character by which they are selected. 

Membership is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors whose cumulative grade point is 90% or higher 

at the end of the previous year. Letters of invitation to join the Society are sent to all prospective 

candidates. Candidates must secure the signature of three teachers who verify the candidates’ 

qualifications. New members are inducted during a formal ceremony. 

Norwin High School Jazz Band 

The Norwin Jazz Band is comprised of members of the high school band seeking additional musical 

opportunities. The jazz band performs at community functions, Jazz Festivals, and “In Concert” yearly. 

Jazz improvisation is emphasized with exploration into a variety of styles including pop, fusion, big band, 

and jazz. 

Norwin High School Marching Band 

The Norwin School Band is recognized internationally as one of America’s finest. Recipient of numerous 

awards for musical excellence, the band is comprised of students in grades 9-12. All are members of the 

marching band and are currently assigned into two ensembles for concert ensemble performance. 

Membership is by audition or prior experience in the middle school band program. The band performs 

concerts during the year and competes both locally and nationally in marching band shows. 

Pennon 

The Pennon, Norwin’s yearbook, is an annual publication distributed in May. Staff members are strongly 

encouraged to schedule the Yearbook Journalism class if they wish to serve as an integral part of the 

27

actual production. Editorial board members are required to attend after school, evening, and weekend 

work sessions. Final staff status is determined by participation in business and literary assignments. The 

staff manual details guidelines concerning attendance and deadline responsibilities. Quality journalism 

requires time and effort. 

Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) 

SADD is an organization whose goal is to create public awareness of the dangers of drunk driving. 

Through projects like Grim Reaper, Mock Accident, and Prom Promise, students will enact the dangers of 

driving under the influence of alcohol. All activities promote a healthy, safe environment of working 

together and having fun without chemical influences. All students are welcome to join SADD. 

Spanish Club 

The Spanish Club offers its membership an opportunity to experience additional cultural activities outside 

the classroom. The membership is comprised of all students currently enrolled in the Spanish III and 

Spanish IV classes. 

Norwin Student Council 

Student Council, one of the most active organizations at the high school, sponsors Homecoming, The 

Breakfast with Disney, and the Senior Citizens Dinner. Student Council “does it all.” It conducts new 

student orientation, serves as the hosts for Open House, sponsors dances and assemblies, supports 

school and community causes, and represents the student body at Norwin School Board Meetings. 

Class Officers (Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors) 

All officers are the center around which all class functions are planned. Every officer must be willing to 

contribute his or her time and be willing to do a lot of hard work. Students should not run for an office 

because they feel it will provide them with special privileges or “status.” Those elected officers not 

carrying out the responsibilities of the office, or who’s conduct in or out of school does not meet the 

standards of the office, may be removed from said office. 

Requirements for Class Officers: 

Must presently have at least a 70% grade average in each individual subject and maintain it 

throughout the term of the office. 

Cannot have severe disciplinary action (such as suspension or expulsion) taken against you. 

Should not have exceeded ten (10) days of absence in the current school year unless there 

are 

unusual circumstances. 

Cannot be president of any other club or organization (senior class president only). 

Failure to comply with these rules is cause for removal from office at the discretion of the 

faculty 

advisor and building principal. 

A runner-up will be named for each office in the event that the elected officer fails to perform 

his 

or her duties or in the event that the officer withdraws from school for any reason. 

Campaign Rules: 

No signs or poster will be used in the school or on school property. 

Students are permitted to make buttons or badges for their campaigning that may be worn 

by other students. 

Campaign materials must be of a nature that request support for your candidacy without 

disparaging anyone else. 

28

Philosophy 

DISCIPLINE 

It is believed that all students should have the freedom and encouragement to express their individuality 

in the school. Expressions of freedom should not include conduct that intrudes upon and/or endangers 

the rights and freedoms of others, especially the freedom of peers to receive instruction. It is therefore, 

the intent of the Norwin School District to establish a rational position that recognizes both the freedom of 

each individual and the need for sufficient order to permit the efficient operation of the instructional 

program. 

The Board also recognizes that implementation of this policy calls for sensitive, tolerant, intelligent action 

on the part of the entire school staff so that fostering individuality is compatible with educationally sound 

group efforts. In all instances wherein employees act to help students conduct themselves properly, 

emphasis will be placed upon student growth and ability to achieve successful self-discipline. 

Norwin students must recognize that all events carry consequences; their actions, language, dress and 

manners are all part of their conduct. 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 and maintain a climate 

within the school that is conducive to wholesome learning and living. A safe and orderly school 

environment will be maintained; students should be willing to volunteer information in matters relating to 

the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property. No student 

has the right to interfere with the education of others. It is the responsibility of all students to respect the 

rights of other students, teachers, administrators, and any others involved in the educational process. 

Students, both individually and in groups, shall comply with school regulations and shall recognize the 

authority of school personnel. Disobedience or open defiance of school personnel authority shall 

constitute sufficient cause for disciplinary action. Individual or group student acts that challenge the 

authority of school personnel to conduct meaningful instruction in any teaching/learning situation shall be 

reported to the building administration. Building principals are empowered to institute appropriate, 

corrective and/or disciplinary action. Actions of an individual or group of students posing an immediate 

threat to the health and welfare of others, upon discretion of school personnel, will permit any reasonable 

action necessary to protect those whose health and welfare is being threatened. 

One of the Norwin School District goals is to help students develop self-discipline, which is a condition of 

orderly conduct, through inner control. The Norwin School District will assist each student in learning this 

control. Disciplinary measures will be employed as instructional and guiding, not merely as punitive 

actions. As appropriate, conferences will be held with the student, parent/guardian(s), and school 

personnel to discuss school behavior. If student conduct is not corrected by admonitions of school 

personnel and/or disciplinary conferences, alternative discipline may be administered in accordance with 

this policy. 

The Norwin Board of School Directors retains the right to make and enforce reasonable and necessary 

rules governing the conduct of students in school. “School” includes the buildings of, the grounds of, 

school-sponsored activities on or off school property, bus stops, and students walking to and from school, 

any conveyance providing transportation to or from “school” and circumstances in which the school is 

acting “in loco parentis.” “In loco parentis,” granted by Section 1317 of the Pennsylvania School Code, 

defines this as granting to teachers and administrators in public schools, the same authority as to conduct 

and behavior over pupils while in attendance at “school” that their parents have over their charges. 

Rationale 

An effective school discipline system presents categories of student misbehaviors and infractions as well 

as the prescribed disciplinary responses/consequences associated with each. Several purposes are 

served through this approach. First, it identifies types of student behaviors that are unacceptable and the 

resulting consequences of such acts. Secondly, the pairing of misbehaviors and disciplinary responses 

serves as a point of reference for policy making. Through the careful development of these categories of 

misconduct and their pairing with a range of sound disciplinary responses and options, the school 

29

attempts to ensure that its disciplinary practices and procedures will be consistent, reasonable, fair, and 

equitable. 

It is the responsibility of students to know and follow the Code of Conduct accordingly. Students are 

expected to assist in maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment by providing information in 

matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school 

property. Students are to assume that all rules are in effect until they are waived, altered or rescinded. 

The specific conduct described herein is not an exhaustive list, but is exemplary of the kind of conduct 

that is subject to disciplinary action under the code. Students may be disciplined for other actions that 

would disrupt the educational processes or adversely affect the health, safety and welfare of fellow 

students, teachers, administrators or other school personnel. 

Definition of Terms 

Teacher Detention: 

Detention requires that the student remain when school is not in session. Detentions are held for 

one-half hour before or after school. 

Students will be given at least one day’s notice prior to serving the detention. When assigned 

detention, a written notice will be provided; this serves as notification to the parent. All detentions 

must be served. Failure to serve detention will result in the assignment of an Office Detention or 

a stronger disciplinary response. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange transportation to 

and/or from detention, as necessary. 

When family emergencies occur, students may reschedule detention. Decisions to reschedule 

will be made by the teacher who assigned the detention, upon receipt of a note from the 

parent/guardian. 

Office Detention: 

Detention requires that the student remain when school is not in session. Detentions are held for 

one hour before or after school. 

Students will be given at least one day’s notice prior to serving the detention. When assigned 

detention, a written notice will be provided; this serves as notification to the parent. All detentions 

must be served. Failure to serve detention will result in the assignment of additional detention 

time or a stronger disciplinary response. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange 

transportation to and/or from detention, as necessary. 


will be made by an administrator, upon receipt of a note from the parent/guardian. 

Saturday Detention: 

Saturday detentions are assigned as four-hour sessions. Students will be given advance notice 

prior to serving the Saturday Detention. When assigned Saturday detention, a written notice will 

be provided; this serves as notification to the parent. 

School personnel will supervise the time in an assigned building location. Students may be 

required to complete activities addressing corrective actions to avoid repeat offenses. Students 

will be required to study or undertake some constructive activity during detention. 

All Saturday detentions must be served. Failure to serve detention will result in the assignment of 

suspension. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange transportation to and/or from 

detention, as necessary. 


will be made by an administrator, upon receipt of a note from the parent/guardian. 

30

Exclusion from school: 

A student may be subject to expulsion by the Norwin Board of School Directors for any act which, 

in the opinion of the Board, violates Board Policy, rules, regulations or interferes with the ordinary 

educational processes of the school district. A suspension may be followed by an expulsion for 

the same offense, in which case the expulsion need not immediately follow the suspension, 

provided that the student has been returned to his/her normal classes. Acts which may subject a 

student to suspension or expulsion include, but are not limited to, the following types of offenses: 

The power to exclude a student from school for cause shall be vested in the Norwin Board of 

School Directors, the Superintendent, Principal or designee as set forth hereafter. 

Exclusion from school may be affected by temporary/initial suspension, full suspension, or 

expulsion. 

Temporary/Initial suspension: 

In accordance with the policies of the Board of School Directors, initial or temporary suspensions 

exclude students from the regular school program by assignment to the Alternative Learning 

Center (ALC). Temporary/Initial suspensions may be for a period of up to three (3) days. 

If a suspension period includes a weekend or vacation day(s) the student is ineligible to 

participate in any school activity until the suspension period is completed. 

Students entering the ALC may be subject to a search of their person and their personal items 

prior to entering the room. 

Students suspended to the ALC shall be considered in attendance at school. During this time, 

students will be assigned work to complete that addresses corrective measures for the 

misbehaviors that resulted in the suspension. Class work will be obtained from the students’ 

teachers and will be done independently with the assistance of the instructional personnel 

supervising the Center. A student who has been suspended four (4) times shall automatically 

receive an informal hearing before the superintendent or his/her designee. 

Full suspension: 

A student may be subject to suspension for an act which, in the opinion of the principal or 

superintendent, violates Board policy, rules, regulations or which interferes with the ordinary 

educational processes. An initial suspension of up to three (3) days may be extended up to a 

total of ten (10) days for the same offense, in accordance with the policies of the Board of School 

Directors after a informal hearing with the Superintendent or designee. The ten (10) school day 

limitation shall not be exceeded. Suspension may not be accumulated or made to run 

consecutively beyond this ten (10) school day limitation. 

Expulsion: 

Expulsion shall mean exclusion from school for an offense for a period exceeding ten (10) school 

days after a formal hearing. Permanent expulsion from school rolls, in accordance with the 

policies of the Norwin Board of School Directors and State Regulations, may also result. 

A student may be subject to expulsion by the Norwin Board of School Directors for any act, which 

in its opinion violates Board policy, rules, regulations or interferes with the ordinary processes of 

the School District. A suspension may be followed by an expulsion for the same offense, in which 

case the expulsion need not immediately follow the suspension, provided that the student has 

been returned to the normal class. 

Loss of Privileges: 

Students who lose privileges are denied attendance at all extra-curricular activities (i.e. dances, 

athletic contests, field trips, clubs, driving, prom, etc.) during the time of suspension and/or for the 

time period specified as a disciplinary consequence, as per the charts below. 

31

Restrictions During Suspension/Expulsion from School: 

Students under suspension from school are also not permitted, on the dates of the suspension, to 

participate, in any capacity, in all extra-curricular activities including sports, and/or any activity 

representing the Norwin School District. If the extra-curricular activity is part of the academic 

evaluation, an alternative assignment must be given. 

Alternative Learning Center (ALC) 

All secondary students excluded from school as a result of a temporary or full suspension shall be 

suspended to the ALC, unless the student and parent/guardian are otherwise notified. Students 

suspended to the ALC shall be considered present in school, shall receive and complete assignments 

from their classroom teachers and shall obey the rules and regulations established for the operation of 

the ALC. Students assigned to the ALC are expected to report upon arrival to school and will be 

dismissed by the supervisor. 

Arson 

Any student setting a fire or assisting in the setting of a fire on school property shall be subject to 

suspension and/or expulsion. Criminal charges shall be filed with the appropriate authorities. 

Any student setting off or attempting to set off a false fire alarm, or telephoning a false fire alarm alert, 

shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. 

Any student found guilty of tampering with a fire extinguisher will be subject to suspension and will be 

required to pay for the cost of refilling, repairing or replacing the fire extinguisher. 

Any student initiating a bomb threat or assisting in a bomb threat to the school shall be subject to 

suspension and/or expulsion. Criminal charges will be filed with the appropriate authorities. 

Any student who is in possession of, or who sets off smoke bombs, firecrackers or any other explosive or 

incendiary devices, shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. 

Bullying/Cyber Bullying 

Each student shall be responsible to respect the rights of others and maintain an environment free of 

bullying and cyber bullying in which all members of the school community are treated with dignity and 

respect. The District recognizes that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts 

from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. 

Therefore, bullying is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Students are encouraged to promptly 

report incidents of bullying and cyber bullying to a teacher, counselor, or building principal. 

Bullying includes: 

unwelcome harassment 

attacks or comments directed by a student or group of students toward another student or group 

of students by means of intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical acts or series of acts 

Prohibited bullying may occur in the school setting or outside the school setting, if it impacts the school 

environment and is severe, persistent or pervasive. 

Bullying can have the effect of interfering with a student’s education, creating a threatening environment, 

and/or disrupting the orderly operation of the school. 

Bullying can take many forms and can include a variety of behaviors: 

Physical violence and attacks 

Verbal taunts, name calling and put-downs 

Emotional bullying, i.e. spreading rumors, ridiculing and manipulating social relationships 

Threats and intimidation 

Extortion or stealing 

Racial, ethnic or gender-based verbal or physical abuse 

32

Spreading false information about a person 

Cyber bullying, which includes, but is not limited to, misuses of technology which have the effect 

of harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing another student, teacher or 

employee carried out by means of sending or posting inappropriate email messages, instant 

messages, text messages, pictures, images or other text by means of computers or electronic 

devices. 

Inappropriate or derogatory use of personal profiles on websites or other website postings, etc. is 

also considered cyber-bullying 

In addition to student discipline code infraction responses, discipline actions may include transfer to 

another school building, classroom or school bus. 

Corporal Punishment 

The Norwin Board of School Directors does not permit corporal punishment of students. School 

authorities (i.e. teacher, principals, etc.) shall have the right to exert reasonable force in the following 

situations: 

to quell a disturbance 

to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects 

for the purpose of self-defense 

for the protection of persons or property. 

In all situations where reasonable force has been used, the parents/guardians of the students involved 

shall be notified. 

Discipline Response Structure 

Repeated violations of the disciplinary code may result in more stringent action taken by the 

administration in conjunction with the discipline code. 

Students who violate, aid or abet others in the violation of the Code of Conduct will be subject to a range 

of disciplinary options including: warning, parental contact, detention, Saturday detention, in-school 

suspension, out-of-school suspension, and expulsion. Any offense or violation may subject a student to 

any of the above stated options, including a recommendation of expulsion, notwithstanding the 

recommended responses listed above, when circumstances so warrant. 

The listed disciplinary regulations do not cover every conceivable situation. 

interpretations and decisions are the prerogative of the school administration. 

All final disciplinary 

Level I Summary: 

Minor or initial misbehavior that impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes with the orderly 

operation of the school or school-sponsored activities. Level I infractions will be handled by individual 

teachers or administrators. Level I misbehaviors may be indicative of a problem, and as such may be 

referred to appropriate support staff. 

Level I Examples: 

Abusive language; agitating others 

Cheating, Plagiarism and/or lying 

Classroom tardiness 

Disturbances in the classroom, hallway, 

auditorium, cafeteria, locker room 

Eating/drinking in unauthorized areas 

 

 

 

 

Failure to complete assignments or 

carry out directions 

Failure to follow school or class rules 

Inappropriate written/verbal comments 

or gestures 

Public displays of affection 

Level I Response Options: 

Assignment consequences (i.e. letter of 

apology or explanation) 

Conference 

Detention (Teacher and/or Office) 

33 

 

 

 

 

Guidance referral 

Isolation within the classroom 

Loss of privileges 

Parental contact

Referral to appropriate support agencies (SAP) 

Saturday Detention Verbal reprimand 

Level II Summary: 

Misbehavior whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school or schoolsponsored 

activity. These infractions, which usually result from the continuation of Level I misbehaviors, 

require the intervention of personnel on the administrative level because implementation of Level I 

disciplinary options failed to correct the situation. Also included in this level are misbehaviors which do 

not represent a direct threat to the health and safety of others, but whose educational consequences are 

serious enough to require corrective action on the part of the administrative personnel. 

Level II Examples: 

Bus misconduct 

Continuation of Level I misbehaviors 

Defiance or Insubordination 

Dress Code violations 

Failure to complete teacher assigned 

consequence 

Failure to obtain an admit slip 

Falsifying Information 

First class cut (Saturday Detention) 

Gambling 

Harassment (verbal, physical or sexual) 

Lack of respect for staff 

Level II Response Options: 

In-school suspension (Temporary or 

Full) 


Office Detention 

Parental conference 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Located in an unauthorized area of the 

school 

Misuse of school property 

Possession of any incendiary device 

(i.e. lighters, matches, etc.) 

Possession of obscene material 

Repeated tardiness to school 

Unauthorized entering another student’s 

locker 

Violation of Student Parking 

Policy/Guidelines 

Referral to appropriate support agencies 

(SAP) 

Saturday Detention 

Verbal Reprimand 

Level III Summary: 

Acts directed against others or property, but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the 

health or safety of others in the school. These acts might be considered criminal but most frequently 

can be handled through disciplinary procedures in the school. Corrective measures taken by the 

school are dependent upon the extent of the school’s resources for remediation that is in the best 

interest of all students and school personnel. 

Level III Examples: 

Assault/Battery (i.e. fighting) 

Continuation of Level I or II 

misbehaviors 

Leading or participating in a walkout 

Leaving school without proper school 

personnel authorization 

Multiple and/or repeated class cuts (Inschool 

suspension) 

Petty theft 

Threats to others 

Level III Response Options: 

Informal hearing with District 

administration 

In-school suspension 

34 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Truancy 

Unacceptable language/gesture to an 

administrator, faculty or staff member 

Possession/use/furnishing/selling of 

tobacco products or tobacco look-alikes 

Vandalism (minor) 

Violation of the Internet Use Agreement 

Policy/Guidelines Violation of the 

Personal Electronic Device 

Policy/Guidelines 


Office Detention 

Parent conference

Referral to appropriate law enforcement 

agencies 

Referral to appropriate support agencies 

(SAP) 

 

 

 

Restitution of property or damages 

Saturday Detention 

Temporary removal from class 

Level IV Summary: 

Acts resulting in violence to another person or property, or that pose a direct threat to the health and 

safety of others in the school. These acts always require administrative action. 

Level IV Examples: 

Aiding in the procurement of restricted 

drugs, intoxicating beverages, look-alike 

drugs, prescription drugs/products, overthe-counter 

drugs or drug paraphernalia 

Arson 

Assault/battery (serious) 

Bomb threat 

Extortion 

Failure to report knowledge of 

weapon(s) or explosive device(s) 

Harassment of staff 

Hazing 

Inappropriate possession/use/ 

furnishing/selling of prescription and/or 

over-the counter drugs 

Leading or participating in a riot 

Lewdness 

Look-alike weapons with the intent of 

intimidation or misrepresentation 

Possession/use/transfer of smoke 

bombs, weapon(s) or explosive 

devices(s) 

Possession/sale of stolen property 

Level IV Response Options: 

Charges filed with the magistrate 

Exclusion from school 

Formal hearing with the District 

Administration 

Informal hearing with the Building 

Administration 

Formal hearing with the Board of School 

Directors 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Setting off false alarms; tampering with 

fire extinguishers or safety equipment 

Sexting or transmitting inappropriate 

images via an electronic device 

Theft (misdemeanor or felony) 

Continuation of Level I, II, or III 

misbehaviors 

Using or having used as well as 

possession/use/furnishing/selling/underthe-influence 

of alcohol, any drug or 

drug look-alike or any item defined and 

prohibited by the Pennsylvania 

Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, 

and Cosmetic Act of 1972 as the same 

amended from time to time, and relate 

to paraphernalia. Examples of such 

prohibited items include, but are not 

limited to marijuana, opiates, and other 

narcotics. 

Vandalism (institutional or major) 

Verbal/physical assault toward 

administrator, teacher, staff member 

and/or their property 

In-school suspension 

Referral to appropriate law enforcement 

agencies 

Referral to appropriate support service 

agencies (SAP) 

Restitution for property and/or personal 

damages 

Drugs and Alcohol (Sale/Use/Possession of or Procurement of Intoxicating Beverages, Restricted 

Drugs, Etc.) 

Definition of Terms: 

Restricted Drugs - includes but will not be limited to opiates, hallucinogens, marijuana, 

barbiturates, heroin, morphine, alcohol, tranquilizers, amphetamines, glue and other solventcontaining 

substances, any substance that can be inhaled, misuse of prescription drugs (includes 

drugs that have not been medically prescribed for the individual or those that have been 

prescribed that are misused, given or sold to another person), substances listed as controlled 

substances in either Section 202 of the Federal Controlled Substance Act (21 U.S.C. §812) or 

Pennsylvania's Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act (35 P.S. §780-101, et 

seq.). The term also includes any prescription or over the counter medications/products used for 

35

the purpose of intoxication, anabolic steroids; however, Human Growth Hormone (HGH) shall not 

be included as an anabolic steroid. 

Prescription Drugs - includes a controlled substance, other drug or device for medication that has 

been medically prescribed for an individual. 

Over the Counter Medication - includes but will not be limited to caffeine derivatives, stimulants or 

depressants. 

Drug Paraphernalia - shall include those items as listed in the Controlled Substance, Drug, 

Device and Cosmetic Act (35 P.S. §780-101, et. seq.). "Drug Paraphernalia" shall also include 

any forged, stolen or blank prescriptions. 

Look-a-like Drugs - shall mean a "substance which, or the label or container of which, 

substantially resembles a specific Restricted Drug and/or Controlled Substance.” The 

Administration, in arriving at a determination of whether or not a substance is a look-a-like drug, 

shall be guided by the provisions of the Controlled Substance Drug Device and Cosmetic Act or 

any comparable or related state or federal statute or regulation. 

Intoxicating Beverages - shall mean any liquor, malt or brewed beverages or alcohol as those 

terms are defined in the Liquor Code as amended (47 P.S. 1-101, et seq.) or any comparable or 

related state or federal statute or regulation. 

Use - means to ingest, inhale, inject, imbibe or otherwise cause a restricted drug, look-a-like drug 

or intoxicating beverage to reach the blood stream or digestive tract or be under the influence 

thereof. 

Possession - means the possession of any restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, look-a-like 

drug, drug paraphernalia or prescription drugs. (includes drugs that have not been medically 

prescribed for the individual) Such restricted materials found in a student's locker is equivalent to 

possession. Such restricted materials found in an automobile used by a student and located on 

school property is equivalent to possession. 

Procurement - means to get possession, obtain, or secure any restricted drug, intoxicating 

beverage, look-a-like drug, drug paraphernalia or prescription drugs. (includes drugs that have 

not been medically prescribed for the individual) 

Sale/Sell - shall include any abuse or transfer of a restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, drug 

paraphernalia, look-a-like drug, over-the-counter drug (definition: "Over-the-counter Stimulants 

and/or Depressants" - any substance that can be purchased over-the counter which can be 

health endangering when used in any way contrary to the manufacturer's directions) for a 

consideration. Sell of prescription drugs (includes drugs that have not been medically prescribed 

for the individual or those that have been prescribed that are misused, given or sold to another 

person) 

Distribution - means to deliver or give possession of a restricted drug, intoxicating beverage, looka-like, 

over- the-counter drug, drug paraphernalia or prescription drugs (includes drugs that have 

not been medically prescribed for the individual or those that have been prescribed that are 

misused, given or sold to another person whether or not said distribution is with or without 

consideration. 

School Safety Zone - Students eighteen (18) years of age or older are subject to the School 

Safety Zone Law, Act 31 of 1988, Section 6314 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code (18 P.S. 6314). 

The Safety Zone Law provides minimum sentences for delivery or possession with intent to 

deliver a controlled substance to a minor on school property or within one thousand (1,000) feet 

of the school's real property (or as amended from time to time by such Act). 

Prohibited Conduct: 

The possession, sale, use, distribution of or aiding in the procurement of a restricted drug, intoxicating 

beverage, look-a-like drug, prescription drug, over-the-counter drug/product or drug paraphernalia is 

strictly forbidden. Secondary students participating in such prohibited conduct while on school grounds, 

during a school-sponsored activity, while going to or from their homes, while using school transportation 

or violating the School Safety Zone Law, shall be subject to the Policies regarding exclusion from school. 

Elementary students participating in such prohibited conduct shall be subject to action under Section IV, 

School Rules. 

36

Notification of Police: 

In those instances where positive identification of a substance is deemed necessary to determine if it is a 

Restricted Drug or look-a-like drug, the Administration shall notify the Police and/or other appropriate 

authorities. 

Exempted Conduct: 

A student shall not be considered involved in prohibited conduct if such student possesses and/or uses a 

substance that falls under the definition of restrictive drug when that student: 

has a valid prescription from a licensed physician and the student is adhering to the physician's 

directions 

has obtained permission from the health office in the building in which that student is attending to 

have the substance in the student's possession. Provided, however, it shall be considered 

Prohibited Conduct for a student to sell or distribute any such substance even though that student 

may have complied with the provisions of this paragraph. 

Over-the-Counter Drugs: 

The sale, use and distribution of over- the-counter drugs/products is likewise strictly forbidden. Over-thecounter 

drugs/products, including caffeine derivatives, stimulants or depressants, may be abused and can 

cause serious allergic reactions to some users. As such, a student is strictly forbidden from selling, or 

distributing any such over the counter drugs/products. Secondary students, who sell, use or distribute 

over-the-counter or prescription drugs/products, purporting them as restricted drugs, shall be subject to 

expulsion. 

Any secondary student excluded under this provision will be referred to the Student Assistance Program 

(SAP) and shall be evaluated prior to consideration for readmission to school. If the student is readmitted, 

the SAP Team shall evaluate/assess the situation and develop an appropriate plan of action for 

the student and parent/guardian who shall comply with the recommendations. The plan of action may 

include enrollment in a substance abuse treatment program during the period of the student's exclusion 

and/or return to school. (In no instance shall the recommendations by SAP increase the time of the 

exclusion in contradiction of Section III.) 

Students excluded under this provision may also be required to obtain a drug and alcohol evaluation and 

participate in recommendations based on the evaluation, attend The Reality Tour, or another anti-drug 

and alcohol program. 

Due Process Procedure 

The following procedures shall be followed in the suspension and/or expulsion of a student from the 

Norwin School District: 

Suspension: 

The Principal and/or Superintendent, prior to imposing a suspension, shall meet with the student(s) 

involved and inform said student(s) of the reasons for the suspension and at this meeting shall give the 

student(s) the opportunity to present a defense to the alleged misconduct. If the suspension is imposed, 

the principal shall: 

 

 

Immediately notify the parent/guardian of the student by telephone, if possible. 

Confirm said telephone calls in writing, setting forth the reason for suspension, the dates the 

suspension is to commence and re-admittance is permitted. 

Expulsion: 

Prior to the expulsion of a student, a formal hearing must be held as follows: 

Definitions 

o Parent - as used herein shall mean parent or parents, guardian or guardians, or person in 

legal custody of a student. 

o Board - as used herein shall mean the Norwin Board of School Directors. 

Notice 

o Subsequent to an investigation of the alleged misconduct by the Principal and/or 

Superintendent, or the Superintendent's designee, a formal hearing before the Board 

37

shall be scheduled. The Board shall give separate written notices by certified mail to 

both the student and parent or guardian of the student at least five days before the date 

of the formal hearing. The notice shall contain: 

• A concise statement of the charges alleged that make up the misconduct or the 

alleged offense. 

• The name of the person or persons bringing the charge. 

• The time and place of the hearing. 

• A statement that the student and parent have the right to appear at the hearing, 

procure witnesses on their behalf and to be represented by legal counsel. 

• A statement that the student, parent or legal counsel have the right to be 

presented with the names of witnesses against the student, and the right to 

demand that any such witnesses appear in person and answer questions or be 

cross-examined. 

• The statement that the student, parent or legal counsel shall have the right upon 

reasonable request prior to the hearing to examine any written statements about 

the conduct and to obtain copies thereof, and to examine the student's academic 

and behavioral records. 

• A statement that the hearing shall be private unless the student or parent submits 

a written request prior to the hearing that said hearing is to be public. 

Time of Hearing before Board 

o The formal hearing shall be held with all reasonable speed and an effort shall be put forth 

to convene the formal hearing prior to the expiration of any existing full suspension. 

Hearing Procedure 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

The Board President or designee shall preside at all hearings. 

It shall be the duty of the chairperson to instruct the accused student, parent, or their 

counsel, that the student accused is not compelled to testify, and his/her refusal to testify 

shall not be construed as an admission. 

The hearing shall be private and shall be attended by the following: members of the 

Board, Board Solicitor, the student accused, his/her parents or guardians, their respective 

counsel, and all witnesses to be called by the parties involved. At the request of any of 

the parties involved, or the Board, witnesses may be separated. The accused student, 

his/her parents or their counsel may request that the hearing be public. However, such 

request must be in writing and received by the Board before the hearing begins. 

All witnesses will be sworn in by a court reporter or the chairperson of the Board. 

The Board, its solicitor, the student and/or parent/guardian, or counsel for either of them, 

shall have the right to examine and cross-examine all witnesses. The student or 

parent/guardian may, in writing, request the attendance of any witness. Such a request 

must be in writing and received not later than forty-eight (48) hours prior to the scheduled 

hearing. 

The Board shall not be bound by technical rules of evidences at the formal hearing, and 

all relevant evidence of reasonably probative value may be received. 

The accused student's past record shall not be consulted or any testimony pertaining 

thereto received in evidence until after the Board determines the guilt or innocence of the 

student accused. 

The testimony of all witnesses shall be recorded by a court reporter or on a tape 

recording device. The student shall be entitled, at his/her expense, to a copy of the 

transcript of the record. 

o After the evidence is closed, the accused student, his/her parent/guardian, or their legal 

counsel, may make a summation of the testimony and argument. 

Disposition of Case 

o Promptly after said hearing is closed, the Board shall consider the evidence and, by 

majority roll call vote, determine the guilt or innocence of the accused student. 

o If the Board has determined that the accused student is guilty of the charges, the Board 

may review the past academic and discipline reports to determine the student's penalty. 

Prior to imposing the penalty, the student or his/her parent or guardian or counsel may 

make a statement as to any mitigating circumstances in regard to a penalty. 

o 

If the charges are sustained, the Board shall prepare a written adjudication which shall 

include findings of fact and conclusions setting forth in summary the evidence and the 

38

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

reasons for its decision and penalty imposed, if any. It shall transmit, by certified mail, a 

copy thereof to the student accused or to his/her parents/guardians and to their counsel, 

not later than five calendar days from the date of such hearing. 

The formal hearing may be conducted in the absence of the student and/or said student's 

parents or guardians. Provided, however, that the president or his/her designee at the 

time of the hearing is satisfied that the written notice requirements as required have been 

complied with and that proof of receipt of said certified mail notification has been received 

and made part of the record at the time of the formal hearing. 

The Board may issue subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the 

production of any documents pertinent to the formal hearing. Should the accused 

student demand the attendance of any witness, the Board shall, if necessary, issue a 

subpoena on behalf of the accused student. 

If a student of Norwin School District fails to appear and/or testify at a hearing as either 

directed by the Board or as subpoenaed by the Board or as directed by the Principal or 

Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee, the student may be subject to 

disciplinary action including possible suspension or expulsion. 

If during a formal hearing, the Board is apprised of information that, if true, would justify 

the expulsion of any student other than the accused, the Board may set a formal hearing 

and direct the administration to investigate or reinvestigate the incident prior to the 

hearing. 

A student who has been expelled may request readmission from the board. 

Harassment and/or Extortion 

Any student harassing individuals for the purpose of obtaining money or other advantages, or for the 

purpose of intimidating others, will be subject to exclusion and/or charges being filed against the student 

with the appropriate authorities. This definition includes sexual harassment or ethnic intimidation (as 

defined in the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, § 2810.) 

Hazing 

Hazing is any action by anyone that endangers the mental and/or physical health or safety of another 

individual. The soliciting, encouraging, aiding, or engaging in hazing by another student, coach, sponsor, 

volunteer, chaperone or other school employee is prohibited. Students engaged in hazing shall be 

subject to one or more of the following disciplinary actions: 

Removal from the activity. 

Conference with parents/guardians. 

Referral to local law enforcement agencies. 

Other disciplinary measures up to and including expulsion. 

Students should report any violation to the adult sponsor or the school administration immediately. 

Students who fail to report these incidents are also subject to discipline measures. 

Incremental Discipline Consequences 

When a student accumulates office detentions at each of the following increments, the corresponding 

consequences occur. 

OFFICE DETENTION COUNT 

CONSEQUENCE 

5 One Saturday Detention for 5 detentions 

7 

10 

13 

39 

Two Saturday Detentions for 7 detentions 

Loss of privileges for one week 





Loss of privileges for remainder of the year

When a student accumulates suspensions at each of the following increments, the corresponding 

consequences occur. 

SUSPENSION COUNT 

CONSEQUENCE 

2 ND Suspension Loss of privileges for one week 

3 rd Suspension Loss of privileges for one month 

4 th Suspension 

Loss of privileges for one year 


Police Questioning and Apprehension 

It is the policy of the Norwin School Board that while a student is properly in attendance, law enforcement 

officers may not remove a student from a school building for questioning, or question the student in 

school, without the permission of the parent or guardian. The situation will be different, however, if an 

enforcement officer has a warrant for the student's arrest or an order signed by a Judge of the Juvenile 

Division of the Court of Common Pleas. If a crime has been committed on school premises, pupils may 

be questioned in the school without parental consent. 

Retention of Disciplinary Information 

Information on disciplinary actions taken under the provisions of this policy will be expunged upon the 

student entering grade 5, 7 and grade 9 except for acts on the part of the student which would seriously 

disrupt the educational processes of the school district or adversely affect the health, safety and welfare 

of fellow students, teachers, administrators or other school personnel. At graduation all disciplinary 

records will be expunged except discipline that comes as part of a formal expulsion hearing at the Board 

level or that which is listed under the PA School Code. 

Status of Student Pending Suspension or Expulsion 

During the period prior to the imposition of a suspension, and during any period of exclusion that exceeds 

ten (10) school days but is prior to the hearing and decision of the Board in an expulsion case, the 

student shall be placed in his normal class except as set forth below. 

An initial suspension of up to three (3) school days may be extended for up to a total of ten (10) school 

days for the same offense. 

When a suspension exceeds three (3) school days, the student and parent shall be given the opportunity 

for an informal hearing consistent with the requirements set forth in State Regulations relating to 

hearings. A suspension of three (3) days or less does not require an informal hearing. An informal 

hearing is required for suspensions from four (4) to ten (10) days. 

If a formal hearing for expulsion is initiated and it is determined, after an informal hearing, that the 

student's presence in his/her normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals or 

welfare of others, and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the 

student may be excluded from school for more than ten (10) school days provided that the formal hearing 

is not unreasonably delayed. Any student so excluded shall be provided with alternative education that 

may include home study. 

It is the policy of the Norwin School District (#234) to honor and continue to impose all unfinished 

suspensions and expulsions that were imposed on each new entrant by their previous school. Each and 

every new entrant will serve the remainder of the discipline prior to their physical entrance into any 

Norwin School. The Norwin School District will ensure that such students receive proper due process. 

40

Tobacco or Smoking Product Possession/Use 

Students shall be prohibited from possessing and/or using tobacco, tobacco products (including 

smokeless tobacco products) while in a school building, on school property or while traveling on school 

buses. This policy will also be in effect for all school-sponsored activities. 

Students smoking, chewing snuff, or in possession of any tobacco products are in violation of Act 145 of 

1996 and commit a summary offense. Charges will be filed automatically with the district justice 

(magistrate) for secondary students, who are subject to fines that can be assessed by the district justice. 

Fines for the violation of this summary offense may be a maximum of $50. The school may also impose a 

minimum of a temporary suspension. 

Students smoking on a school bus have the same rules apply. Students may also lose bus-riding 

privileges for this violation. 

Students serving as lookouts for smokers shall be subject to a minimum of a temporary suspension. 

Secondary students found in violation of this rule may also be subject to a minimum of a temporary 

suspension. 

Repeat offenders of any of these rules may be subject to a full suspension or expulsion. 

Weapons 

It is a misdemeanor of the first degree for any person to possess a weapon in the buildings or upon the 

grounds of any public school in the Norwin School District. In addition, Federal Gun-Free Schools Act 

and Pennsylvania Act 27 of 1995 require adherence to certain discipline and reporting requirements in 

the event a student is in possession of a weapon or firearm. As such, students are prohibited from 

possessing a weapon: 

in any Norwin School District building 

on any grounds of the Norwin School District 

in any conveyance (including private) providing transportation to or from Norwin School District 

at any school function, activity or event whether or not held on Norwin School District grounds 

while the student is on his/her way to or from school 

Definition of Terms: 

Weapon - shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchuck 

stick, brass or metal knuckles, firearm, shotgun, rifle; chemical agent such as mace, 

explosive devices including but not limited to pipe bombs, and any other tool, instrument or 

implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. 

Firearm - includes actual firearms of any type whatsoever, which will or is designed to or may 

readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver 

of any such weapon, any firearm muffler or silencer, any destructive device, pellet guns, BB 

guns, and look-alike firearms, whether they be capable of operation and whether they be 

loaded or unloaded. Any device which is authorized by the school for a legitimate 

educational purpose (such as tools, play properties, pallet knives and the like) or any device 

or object which has been given prior approval by the Principal in connection with any 

educational programs or extra-curricular activity is not considered to be a weapon. 

Possession - means being on the person of the student, in the student's locker, or otherwise 

under his or her direct or indirect control while the student is on school property, on property 

being used by the school or at any school function or activity, or at any school event held 

away from the school or while the student is on his/her way to or from school. 

Destructive device - shall include any bomb, grenade, and rocket having a propellant charge 

of more than four (4) ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than 

one-quarter ounce, mine or device similar to any such devices. 

41

Investigation Procedure: 

Every school employee and/or student who has knowledge of a weapon being impermissibly on or in 

school property shall immediately inform a building administrator who will immediately conduct an 

investigation. A person who has knowledge of a weapon being in school or on school property shall 

be subject to disciplinary proceedings if the person does not immediately report the matter. 

If reasonable suspicion exists that a student possesses a weapon, the principal or school official will 

conduct a search according to the approved procedures; including lockers, book bags, vehicles, etc. 

Teachers and school authorities to obtain possession of weapons may use reasonable force or other 

dangerous objects as provided by the Rules and Regulations of the State Board of Education. 

If the student resists such a voluntary search, the principal or school official shall immediately 

summon the local police and request assistance. The parent or guardian of the student shall likewise 

be notified. Under no circumstances shall the school official act as the student's informed adult in 

regard to any Miranda Warnings given by the police when they appear. 

The school official shall follow the procedures for any student locker searches. If a weapon is found 

and confiscated, the Superintendent shall assess the circumstances of the possession, including but 

not limited to the type of object confiscated, the intent of the student and the potential threat of danger 

to the school community. The Superintendent may recommend to the Board of School Directors 

disciplinary action less than expulsion as required herein, on a case-by-case basis. 

All incidents involving the possession of a weapon prohibited shall be reported by the Superintendent 

or the Principal to local law enforcement officials. The Superintendent shall report all incidents 

relating to expulsions for possession of a weapon pursuant to this policy, to the Department of 

Education, Office for Safe Schools. 

In the event a student with a disability is determined to be in possession of a weapon in violation of 

this policy, all steps will be taken to comply with the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, as 

amended, and other applicable Federal and State law and regulations. 

Look-alike weapons shall be considered under these provisions and are subject to the same 

procedures and punishment. 

42

GENERAL SCHOOL OPERATING PROCEDURES 

Admission of Students 

Children who are residents of Irwin, North Irwin, and North Huntingdon Township are eligible to attend the 

schools of Norwin School District. The legal residence of his/her parents or legal guardian determines a 

child’s eligibility. A child whose parents are separated or divorced must reside with the parent who lives 

in Irwin, North Irwin, or North Huntingdon Township to be eligible to attend the Norwin School District. 

Senior students whose parents move from the school district during the second semester of their final 

year may elect to complete the final year and graduate from Norwin High School. 

The district will honor and continue to enforce all unfinished suspensions and/or expulsions that were 

imposed by districts prior to admission of any new entrant into the district. Due process will be ensured. 

Agenda Books 

At the beginning of each school year, all students will be issued agenda books that are to be used as their 

personal hall pass and student organizer. Students will not be dismissed from classes without an agenda 

book. Replacement agenda books may be purchased in the Main Office at a cost of $5.00. 

Announcements 

Student announcements are made daily during the homeroom period. These announcements include 

important information concerning the day’s activities as well as future events. Announcement requests 

must be submitted no later than 3:00 PM the day prior, by completing the appropriate form with 

faculty/sponsor signatures. 

Arriving and Departing From School Campus 

Students are expected to arrive and depart from campus by district provided transportation or with a 

parent/guardian. Arriving or departing from campus with someone other than a parent requires written 

parental permission and administrative approval. Students violating this rule may be subject to 

disciplinary action. 

Automobile Registration and Parking 

As required by law, the Norwin School District provides bus transportation to and from school for 

students. Because transportation is provided, students must receive Administrative approval to drive 

private vehicles to school. Student passengers in student-driven vehicles must also receive 

Administrative approval. Driving/passenger applications can be obtained in the Administrative or Parking 

Lot Management Offices. Because of space limitations, parking on school property is permitted only for 

juniors and seniors participating in current after-school related activities. 

A fee will be assessed for the privilege of driving to school and parking on campus. A driving 

pass along with accompanying fee will be reissued three times per year: fall, winter, and spring. If 

a student has his/her driving privileges revoked and/or suspended the driving fee for that season 

will not be refunded. 

Passes will not be given for after-school work purposes. Due to limited parking spaces, permits will 

be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. The student’s grade level, absence, tardy, and discipline 

records will be considered in the issuance of driving/riding permits. Students must obtain and return the 

parking/driving agreement with authorizing parental/guardian signatures. Student driving passes will not 

be issued for motorcycles. 

One-day temporary parking permits will be granted with prior notification. These will only be granted for 

emergency reasons and with parent/guardian permission. 

43

There should be no expectation of privacy for any vehicle located on School District property; the Norwin 

School District reserves the right to inspect or search any vehicle at any time it is on school property, 

including, but not limited to canine searches. Parking privileges may be revoked for non-compliance 

with procedures and/or changes in application status. 

Students are not permitted to be in the student parking area until all buses have departed. 

Students who violate Norwin High School’s Driving/Parking Policy will be subject to disciplinary 

action. 

Book Bags 

Students are permitted to carry book bags/large tote bags to and from school; however, they may not be 

used throughout the school day. Clear or mesh bags are permitted for the carrying of gym clothes to and 

from physical education class. Any student to found to be carrying a book bag/tote/gym bags 

during school will be subject to disciplinary action. Rolling book/tote/gym bags are not permitted. 

Bus Conduct and Safety Procedures 

The safety of all children is the primary responsibility of the bus driver and takes precedence over all 

other considerations. The school bus driver has full authority to enforce bus transportation policies and 

procedures. All school rules of the conduct/discipline code will be enforced during bus transportation. 

The use of a school bus is a privilege that may be denied if any of the rules are violated. In 

addition to these, students are to practice proper bus conduct: 

Cafeteria 

Seating: 

Except when assigned by the driver or school administration, there are no reserved seats on the 

bus. Students will take available seats as they enter the bus and will not “save” a seat for any 

other student who may later board the bus. State law requires that students stay seated at all 

times while the bus is in motion and that they refrain from putting any part of the body outside the 

bus. 

Littering and Vandalism: 

Throwing objects of any kind from the bus is dangerous; it may also result in a littering citation. 

Littering in or out of the bus, and acts of vandalism will not be tolerated. Disciplinary measures 

consistent with school policies will be enforced. 

Assignments: 

Students are only permitted to ride their assigned bus unless authorization has been given in 

advance by the school administration. Students should note that it is a misdemeanor to board a 

school bus without proper authorization and with the intent to commit a crime, disrupt or interfere 

with the driver, or refuse to disembark from a school bus after being ordered to do so. 

Videotaping: 

Students may be videotaped on school buses for safety and disciplinary purposes; these tapes 

will be periodically reviewed by the school administration. 

The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program of the school district. To 

encourage good nutrition, a well-balanced lunch is offered at a reasonable price. All students are to 

either purchase their lunch or bring one from home. Additionally, breakfast is served daily between 6:55 - 

7:10 AM. While eating in the cafeteria, students will: 

Deposit all lunch litter in wastebaskets. 

Return trays and utensils to the dishwashing area. 

Leave the tables, chairs, and floors in a clean condition for others. The eating areas are the 

responsibility of the entire table, not single individuals. 

44

Not take food from the cafeteria. 

Not throw any object of any type, any distance. 

Keep conversations at a reasonable volume. 

Use the lavatories adjacent to the cafeteria. 

Pay for broken or damaged plateware and flatware. 

Remain in the cafeteria unless permission is received from the monitors. 

Pay for food items; credits will not be issued. Any student stealing will be disciplined and may be 

subject to criminal charges. 

Students without ID Cards will be served last. 

Any student caught throwing any object in the cafeteria will receive a three (3) day suspension in 

the Alternative Learning Center. 

Any student creating, leading, and/or participating in a disturbance will be subject to a three (3) 

day suspension in the Alternative Learning Center. 

Cafeteria monitors may assign clean-up duties, detention, or recommend suspension to the 

administration. Violations of the lunch regulations may result in a student’s cafeteria privileges being 

revoked. 

Families may qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program. 

Applications may be obtained in the Cafeteria Office. 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and 

activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability. Persons with disabilities 

who require alternative means for communication of all program information (Braille, large print, 

audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2700 (voice and TDD). To file a 

complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 327-W, Whitten Building, 

14th and Independence Avenue, Washington, DC 20260-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

Change of Address and Telephone Numbers 

Students and/or parents must notify the Guidance Office of any change in the home address or home and 

work telephone numbers as soon as they occur. 

Closed Campus – Leaving School Property 

Students are not permitted to leave the building at any time without proper school authorization. Leaving 

school without proper school authorization will result in a suspension. (See Attendance Section of this 

Handbook.) 

Dances 

Homecoming Dance in the fall is open to all grade 9-12 students and grade 9-12 guests. 

The Snowball Dinner and Dance, held in December at an off-campus location, is for grade 10-12 students 

and guests who are at least in grade 10 and under 21 years of age on the day of the dance. 

The Spring Dance in March is strictly for grade 9 students and their guests who must be grade 9-12 

Norwin students; it too may be held at an off-campus location. 

The Prom is held at an off-campus location in early May and is open to juniors, seniors and their guests 

who are at least in grade 10 and also under 21 years of age on the day of the Prom. 

Any club-sponsored dances held throughout the year will establish procedures and requirements 

as needed. Students need to be aware of those rules. 

45

Dance Rules/Procedures: 

All tickets must be pre-purchased 

Students must register themselves and their guest. Registration includes student name, age, 

grade, school and parent/guardian telephone number. 

Students are expected to arrive within thirty (30) minutes of the dance start time, unless 

accompanied by parent/guardian. 

Students are expected to remain at the dance for the entire time. Those departing early will 

be required to sign out, will not be permitted to remain on school property and cannot re-enter 

the dance. 

All school rules and consequences will be enforced at dances and social events. 

Students violating dance rules will have a parent/guardian notified, will be dismissed from the 

dance, and may be subject to disciplinary/criminal charges. 

All school dances are for high school students only. 

If the event is held on the weekend, students must attend school the Friday preceding the 

event. 

All non-Norwin students must be registered prior to the event, provide I.D. and complete the 

registration forms. 

All dance attendees will be required to abide by the rules of the Norwin Student Discipline 

Code. 

Emergency Closing and Delay of School 

When emergencies such as severe weather conditions, utility failures, or other situations require the 

delay or closing of school, notice is given as early as possible on the district website, most radio stations 

(i.e. KDKA, WWSW, and WHJB Knightbeat) as well as WPXI and WTAE television stations. Students are 

to listen for school delay and cancellation information broadcast over these stations, not phone the 

school. If an early dismissal is required, the information will be broadcast over these stations. Normally, 

when school is canceled, athletic events, practices and/or other student activities are not conducted on 

school grounds. 

Emergency Procedures 

In the event of an emergency a well-developed School Safety plan requires effective communication to 

staff, parents, students and stakeholders. Therefore, we want to provide you some information about 

what to do and expect in the event of an emergency at one of the school buildings. 

Parents will receive information by a variety of methods, depending on the time and manner of the crisis. 

Information will be provided on an as-needed basis; however, the administration will provide as much 

information on the situation as possible to parents without compromising the safety of any person 

involved or without violating laws relating to confidentiality. Communication methods and an explanation 

of each are listed below: 

School Messenger: 

This system is designed to send an emergency message via a phone call and/or text or email 

message to families. It is essential that you provide the District with accurate phone numbers and 

email addresses. You should also alert the District when there is a change to any phone number 

or email address. 

District Website: 

Emergency Information may appear on the District’s homepage at www.norwinsd.org 

E-Alerts: 

These are email or SMS text messages you can receive when the District website is updated with 

new and/or emergency information. Directions on how to sign-up to receive E-Alerts is located on 

our District webpage under the Students and Parents tab in the Emergency Procedures link. 

46

Letters Sent Home with Children: 

If the emergency is one that does not require immediate notification, we will provide information 

about the emergency or situation in a letter that will be sent home with children. 

Local Media: 

There may be emergencies that will prompt us to use our local media, both newspaper and 

television, to broadcast to parents. 

Parent Meetings: 

Parent meetings may be called following a significant emergency. 

In the event of a significant emergency, we understand that a parent’s first reaction will be to come to the 

school to pick up his/her child. When there is a significant emergency, we urge parents to refrain coming 

to the school because it may interfere with the capacity of emergency personnel to perform their jobs 

effectively. In many instances, emergency personnel will not permit access to the school buildings. 

Communication to the parents by the District Public Information Officer (PIO), the spokesperson for the 

District, will come as soon as reasonably possible. Additionally, the District PIO will provide timely 

updates using the local media, the District website, School Messenger and other forms of communication 

as deemed necessary. Parents should consult the District website for the most factual and up-to-date 

information. 

Emergency Evacuations 

Emergency evacuation drills are required by law and conducted for students’ safety. Fire drills are held 

on a regular basis, or as weather conditions permit; severe weather drills are held annually. Evacuation 

procedures are posted within each classroom for reference; students should know the procedures and/or 

exit route in each of their respective classrooms. The following regulations have been established to 

maintain a safe and orderly evacuation: 

Students are not permitted to talk during any part of the evacuation. 

Students are to abide by all teacher, school and emergency staff, and school administration 

directives. 

Students are to walk quickly to an assigned exit, moving to designated areas outside the school 

building. 

Physically challenged students will leave the room with assistance as needed, reporting to the 

designated area on each floor; further instructions will be given by the supervising staff member. 

Excuse from Instruction/Assessment 

Act 88 provides students the right to decline participation in any education project involving harmful or 

destructive use of animals (i.e., dissection, vivisection, incubation, capture etc.). Section 1329 of the 

Pennsylvania School Code provides school districts with the authority to excuse a student from portions 

of a health course when the subject material, in the judgment of proper authorities, is incompatible with 

the student’s religious beliefs. Parents/guardians have the right to have their children excused from 

specific instruction if that instruction conflicts with their religious beliefs. 

Requests must be made in writing to the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education, signed and 

state the specific elements of instruction from which the student is being excused. The request must be 

submitted at least six (6) school days in advance of the instruction occurring and include the reason for 

requesting the excusal. The entire policy, 105.2: Excuse from Instruction/Assessment can be found on 

the District website. 

When a student is excused from portions of the health course, the teacher will provide alternate 

assignments from selected materials and adjust unit or semester tests so as not to affect the student’s 

grade. A student who chooses to refrain from participation in such activity will be offered an alternative 

education project that allows the factual knowledge, information or experience required by the course of 

study. If tests require harmful or destructive use of animals, students will be offered alternative tests. 

Students will not be discriminated against for their decision to exercise this right. 

47

Field Trips 

Parent permission is required for students to participate in school-sponsored field trips. Field trips are 

considered school-sanctioned absences, and students must follow all procedures for such absences as 

described in the Attendance section of this handbook. Both the parents and school have the option to 

withhold permission for field trip attendance, be it for reasons of excessive absence or deportment 

records. Students not participating in field trips will attend classes rather than the field trip. 

Interested grade 9 students attend a site visit to the Westmoreland Career and Technology Center. The 

purpose of this site visit is to introduce the students to one of the various Norwin curriculum programs. 

Food and Beverages in School 

All food and beverages, whether brought from home or purchased from the cafeteria or school vending 

machines, must be consumed in the cafeteria. Beverages brought into the school must be factory sealed 

and may only be opened and consumed in the cafeteria; travel mugs, “to go” cups, or open bottles are not 

permitted to be brought into the school. Faculty members will supervise class projects incorporating food 

and beverage consumption, “transferring” these procedures to the classroom setting. Students violating 

this policy will have the product confiscated without a refund. Disciplinary action may also be 

taken. 

Fund Raising 

According to the board of school directors, students may engage in fundraising on behalf of their 

approved student organizations only after the need for funds has been determined and the principal has 

approved the request. All fundraising requests need to be approved through the High School Main Office. 

Hall Passes and Classroom/Study Hall Sign-Out 

All students are issued agenda books that are to be used as their personal hall pass. Students will not be 

dismissed from classes without an agenda book. Students who are excused from class must receive the 

supervising faculty member’s signature in the agenda book and sign the Class Dismissal Roster. 

Students are not permitted in the halls after 2:00 p.m. 

Homeroom Period 

Homeroom period starts at 7:18 AM. Students not in homeroom at this time are considered tardy to 

school and must report to the Attendance Office for admission. The homeroom period consists of 

Channel One presentations, opening exercises, announcements, and daily attendance procedures. 

Homeroom is a closed period; the homeroom teacher will accept only pre-arranged passes. 

Library 

The library is open daily from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Students are permitted to use the facility for research 

and quiet reading during study halls as long as a library pass has been obtained from the librarian in the 

morning. 

Computers in the library and the Internet lab provide access to the online “Destiny” catalog program. 

Access Pennsylvania provides an interlibrary loan program with access to 1,695 libraries across the state 

and 2 million material titles. Students may also research titles in online databases. 

Students may only check out library materials with their Norwin School District ID cards. Books can be 

taken for two weeks and may be renewed if there is not a waiting list. Video and reference materials 

circulate for two days. Fines are charged for overdue and lost materials. Magazines do not circulate 

since they are used for research. A coin-operated photocopy machine is available. 

48

Lockers 

Each student is provided the use of one locker assigned by the administration. Homeroom teachers 

maintain a confidential record of locker number assignments and lock combinations for each student. It is 

the student’s responsibility to secure all personal and District property in their assigned locked locker. 

Personal combination or key locks are recommended for all students to secure their assigned locker. 

Students are not permitted to use any locker other than their own. Additionally, any changes in locker 

assignments must be made in the Administration Office. The school district is not responsible for 

any loss/theft of items; however, all losses should be reported to school authorities promptly. 

With the exception of student lunches, no food or drink may be kept in lockers. 

Gym lockers are to be used by students in the physical education areas. The school does not provide 

locks; therefore students may use their own lock to secure their personal items on physical education 

days. Students may also request physical education teachers to lock valuables in their offices. The 

school district is not responsible for any loss/theft of items; however, all losses should be reported 

to school authorities promptly. 

Loss or Damage of School Property 

Students who lose or damage any school property (including textbooks, athletic equipment, calculators, 

etc.) will be held financially responsible for its replacement / repair. Students are notified of their debts to 

the district through the Delinquent Obligation Notice. A copy of these notices is maintained in the High 

School Office should the student or parents require details. Students having financial obligations to the 

district will have their records (including report cards and transcripts) held until payment is made. 

Students with unpaid obligations will not be permitted to participate in the graduation ceremonies. 

Students should check the lost and found area in the Administration Office for missing items. Although 

the school is not responsible for lost or stolen student property, students should report, or take, lost or 

stolen items to the High School Administration Office. All lost property should be sent to the 

Administration Office. 

Loss of Privileges 

Students who lose privileges are denied attendance at all extra-curricular activities (i.e. dances, athletic 

contests, field trips, clubs, driving, prom, etc.) during the time of suspension and/or for the time period 

specified as a disciplinary consequence. 


school activity until the suspension is completed. 

Missed Assignments 

When a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to make up all missed schoolwork. The time for 

completing make-up work will be established and published by each teacher. In general, make-up time 

should be one (1) day for each day missed. 

Students who know in advance of absences - i.e. due to school-sanctioned trips, athletic and academic 

participations, etc. – must submit assignments or projects and take tests and quizzes in advance of the 

absence, unless otherwise approved by the teacher. 

In cases of extended illness (i.e. 3 or more days), the parent/guardian is encouraged to contact the 

Guidance Office for homework assignments. Assignments will be requested from the teachers and will be 

available for pick-up on the following day from 2:30 to 3:30 PM in the Guidance Office. 

Students receiving an “I” (incomplete) grade for a grading period will have two (2) weeks following the 

issuance of the report card to make up the assigned work. Work that is not made up within the two 

weeks will result in an “F” (failure) grade. 

49

Nurse’s Office 

When a student becomes ill or suffers an injury at school, the student must obtain a pass from the 

teacher whose class the student will be missing. Only emergency situations will permit admission to the 

Nurse’s Office without a pass. Students reporting to the Nurse’s Office will “swipe in” using his/her ID 

card. Upon departure, the time will be recorded and a return pass issued on the students agenda book. If 

the nurse determines that dismissal from school is recommended, contact will be made with those named 

on the Emergency Contact Card. In the event of dismissal by the nurse, the person picking up the 

student must also sign the early dismissal log sheet; students who drove to school will only be permitted 

to drive themselves with parent/guardian approval. 

Students are not permitted to report to a location other than the Nurse’s Office when ill or injured. Once a 

student enters the school, only dismissals from the Attendance or Nurse’s Offices are legal excuses; 

students who phone home and request parental pick-up are subject to disciplinary action for leaving the 

building without authorization. 

Parent Conferences 

Parents are encouraged to make appointments for conferences with teachers, counselors, or 

administrators. So that all participants can be prepared to conduct productive conferences, parents and 

school officials will seek to arrange conferences at mutually convenient times. Parent/guardians may 

request conferences by telephoning the Administration or Guidance Office indicating the purpose of the 

conference; a conference time can then be established and necessary participants scheduled to attend 

the meeting. All parent/guardians must first report to the Administration Office to register as a school 

visitor and will then be directed to the meeting location. Unannounced visits to teachers’ classrooms will 

not be permitted. 

Personal Electronic Devices 

Technology has become an essential part of education at Norwin School District. Students today have 

access to a wide variety of mobile computing devices outside of school that they can use for research and 

assignment completion. With many students owning mobile computing devices and frequently using 

these devices for their school work, the District has recognized the need to allow students to utilize their 

own technology in a more seamless way at school. 

A filtered Internet connection on the District’s wireless network will be provided for authorized student 

educational use in the instructional setting. This is called the “Bring Your Own Device” or “BYOD” 

program. Students and parents need to be aware of several rules and requirements before a personal 

device is brought to school: 

The student is solely responsible for any electronic devices or related equipment that he/she 

brings to school. The Norwin School District is not liable for lost, stolen, or damaged 

equipment. Students are encouraged to secure any devices on their person or in their 

lockers with a lock. 

The District expressly prohibits use of personal electronic devices within the building, or 

on school grounds, unless pre-approved and under the supervision of a classroom 

teacher or administrator for a specific educational purpose. Electronic devices must 

remain in the “off” mode, and must not be visible or accessed during the school day, 

unless expressly permitted by a teacher or principal. Students using personal electronic 

devices will be required to switch off cell service (also known as setting the device to “airplane 

mode”), if applicable to their device, during instruction. The school day is defined as beginning 

upon a student entering the building and lasting until the close of the academic school day. The 

use of electronic devices for non-educational use while on school grounds will be allowed after 

the close of the academic school day, but students should continue to adhere to the requirements 

of Board policies No. 237 and No. 249 while on school grounds, at school-sponsored activities or 

while under school supervision. 

Student devices may not be used to cheat on assignments or tests, or for non-instructional 

purposes (such as making personal phone calls and text/instant messaging) during the 

instructional day. Inappropriate or unauthorized use of a personal electronic device will 

50

esult in confiscation of the device and/or disciplinary action, which may include reporting 

the matter to legal authorities, if applicable. 

Students are not permitted to use their own cellular (2G/3G/4G) network during the school 

instructional day or while engaged in approved educational/instructional activities. Use by a 

student of a non-District cellular network during the instructional day, during instructional 

activities, or while otherwise under District supervision is prohibited as a violation of the District’s 

Acceptable Use Policy No. 802 and the provisions of the federal Children’s Internet Protection Act 

(CIPA). Norwin School District shall not be liable for any content viewed on a student’s private 

network. Any student involved in use of a non-District cellular network during the instructional 

day, during instructional activities or while under District supervision will be subject to disciplinary 

action and may be banned from using personal electronic devices at school for the remainder of 

the school year. 

Students should not share or lend their personal electronic devices with anyone unless such 

sharing is specifically permitted or approved by the teacher for collaboration purposes. 

Student personal electronic devices should come to school charged. Accommodations will not be 

made for charging devices during school hours. 

The Norwin staff will not service any non-District purchased or owned technology, which includes 

troubleshooting, software or hardware issues. Students are responsible for securing their devices 

and making sure that they have up-to-date anti-virus software installed, if applicable. The District 

shall not be responsible for any damage or viruses caused to personal electronic devices. 

Administrators reserve the right to confiscate any electronic device, related technology, or 

equipment, whether privately owned or school owned, when such is being used in a 

manner which violates Board Policy or Administrative procedure or in a manner that does 

not support a safe educational atmosphere for students. Students involved in such uses or 

acts will be subject to discipline in accordance with District Policy. Legal authorities will be 

contacted in the event the District’s personnel have reason to believe any local, state, federal or 

Federal Communications Commission laws or polices have been violated. 

A student and parent signature indicating knowledge of and consent to these procedures 

will be included in the Student Handbook, and completion of this sign-off sheet shall be a 

requirement for participation in Bring Your Own Device educational programs. 

Under Board policies No. 237 and No. 249, students may not utilize any electronic device or 

technology to harass, threaten, demean, humiliate, intimidate, embarrass, or annoy their 

classmates or others in the school community. This is unacceptable student behavior known as 

cyber bullying and will not be tolerated. Any cyber bullying that is determined to disrupt the safety 

and/or wellbeing of the school is subject to disciplinary action, which may include reporting the 

matter to legal authorities, if applicable. 

Students are responsible to be aware of the appropriateness of communications when using 

District or personally owned devices. Inappropriate communication, as defined in Board Policy 

No. 237, is prohibited in any usage of electronic devices undertaken which are subject to Board 

Policy No. 237, whether by public message, private message, or other material posted online by 

students. Students and their parents are expected to be familiar with the requirements of Board 

policies No. 237 and No. 249 regarding inappropriate communications and bullying/cyber 

bullying. Disciplinary action or involvement of law enforcement personnel, as appropriate, may be 

taken in the event students engage in inappropriate communications. 

Access to the District’s computer network and internet connection is a privilege, not a right. 

Violations of this Policy by a student may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to 

confiscation of the electronic device, banning of the student from using personal electronic 

devices at school for the remainder of the year, or reporting the matter to legal authorities if 

applicable. When cell phones or other electronic devices are confiscated, the student’s parent or 

guardian must come into the school during school hours to pick up the device. 

Students may be asked to use electronic devices for word processing, presentation 

development/delivery, as well as permissible photography or recording of audio and video. Any 

student who attempts to photograph any other individual or record any audio or video of any 

individual must have the individual’s knowledge and consent to do so. Any unauthorized 

capturing or unauthorized dissemination of audio, video or images of students or other school 

employees or officials may implicate an individual’s personal privacy or rights under applicable 

statute, such as FERPA, IDEA, copyright law or state and federal wiretap statutes. Students 

should seek approval and permission from all individuals involved, including supervising teachers, 

51

efore capturing and/or disseminating any audio, video or images of any students or school 

personnel, and the District reserves the right to take disciplinary action, where necessary and 

appropriate, and/or to refer any matter to the relevant legal authorities in the event an individual’s 

legal rights are violated. Students may also be asked to use cell phones to participate in polls, 

which may involve the application of text messaging surcharges. 

The District reserves the right to deny connection to its network if it finds that a device is 

adversely affecting network infrastructure or performance. 

When a personal electronic device is confiscated, the student’s parent/guardian must come into 

the school during school hours to pick up the device. In addition to confiscation, further 

disciplinary action may follow. 

Students should be aware that if a personal electronic device is used to take photographs or record audio 

or video while on school property or at school events, the student may be subject to violation of the state 

wiretapping laws. (18 Pa C.S.A. section 5703). 

Photographs and Videotapes of Students 

Media requested interviews or photographs of students will only be conducted after the building principal 

and parent/guardian have been notified and granted permission. An appropriate adult and/or school 

official must be present during all interviews or photo sessions; no student will be interviewed or 

photographed while alone. 

Team/group photographs for extra-curricular activities will be permitted. Candid photographs of students 

attending school functions will also be permitted. 

Photographs of all students in grades 9,10, and 11 are taken in the school each year for optional student 

purchase. Seniors who wish to have their photograph included in the yearbook must follow the 

procedures (photographer, deadlines, etc.) described to them at the end of their junior year. Because 

ample time is available in the summer for taking of senior pictures, students are not excused from school 

for this activity. 

Pledge of Allegiance 

Students will have the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each school day. 

Students who religious or personal reasons for not reciting the Pledge of Allegiance may decline to do so, 

however they will not interrupt those students who are paying respect to our flag and country. 

Public Display of Affection/Inappropriate Physical Activity 

Students are not permitted to demonstrate public displays of affection on school grounds or at school 

activities. This includes, but is not limited to, kissing, embracing or other inappropriate physical contact, 

“sexting” or using electronic devices to transmit inappropriate images or to share inappropriate images. 

Violations shall result in disciplinary action. 

Scheduling 

In January, students meet with their guidance counselors to begin scheduling courses for the following 

academic year. Care is taken to ensure that an appropriate plan of study is prepared for each student. 

If, however, circumstances require changes to the initial selections, changes are permitted through a 

designated date in May. Once the published “change date” has passed, a student’s schedule will only be 

altered for the following reasons: 

The student schedule is incorrect due to clerical error. 

The student’s academic performance during the final quarter of school or summer school dictates 

a change. 

The instructor initiates a change because the student is unable to maintain an acceptable level of 

academic success. 

52

School Day/Hours 

The student day begins upon entering the building and concludes at 2:16 pm. Students may not enter the 

building before 6:30 AM unless a teacher or administrator approves admission. All students are expected 

to remain in school until 2:16 PM unless an excused early dismissal has been arranged. (See the 

Attendance section of this Handbook.) Students are expected to leave the building by 3:00 PM unless 

they are under the direct supervision of a staff member. Loitering on school grounds is not permitted. 

School Offices will be open according to the following schedule: 

High School Main Office: 6:30 AM - 3:45 PM 

Guidance Office: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM 

Athletic Office: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM 

Searches of Person and/or Lockers 

Lockers are the property of Norwin School District and are to be considered school property; therefore, 

under certain conditions the appropriate school authorities are free to search lockers. Searches of 

students' lockers shall be prohibited unless the building principal or the Principal's designee has a 

reasonable belief that a student's locker contains an article that is in violation of a federal, state, or local 

law, or is in violation of School Board Policy and/or Procedure. In the event a search of a locker or 

lockers is warranted, said search shall be conducted as follows: 

The building Principal or the Principal's designee, in the presence of the student and another 

member of the school staff, may search the student's locker. 

In the case of an emergency such as a bomb threat, or if the student is absent, the locker may be 

searched without the student being present. 

The search of a student's person shall be permitted only when there is a reasonable belief that said 

student has on his/her person items in violation of federal, state or local laws or in violation of Board 

Policy. Such a search shall consist of a pat down only and shall be conducted by a designated school 

official of the same sex in the presence of another member of the school staff of the same sex. 

There should be no expectation of privacy for any vehicle located on School District property; the Norwin 

School District reserves the right to inspect or search any vehicle at any time it is on school property, 

including, but not limited to canine searches. 

School officials in conjunction with the North Huntingdon Township Police Department will conduct 

random, periodic and canine sniff searches. As a result of such searches, students shall not expect 

privacy regarding items placed in school lockers. 

Skateboards and In-Line Skates 

No person shall use skateboards, in-line skates, or Heelies (shoes with wheels) upon the property and 

grounds of the School District. Any person riding a skateboard, using in-line skates, or Heelies (shoes 

with wheels) or assisting another in the riding of a skateboard upon school property or grounds is hereby 

deemed a defiant trespasser pursuant to Section 3503 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, 18 P.S. 

Sec.3503 (b), and shall be subject to summary prosecution. 

Student Accident Insurance 

Students who are injured must report the injury to the Nurse’s or Administration Offices on the day the 

injury is sustained. A delay in this report may result in the claim being rejected by the insurance 

company. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian, not the School District, to file the insurance claim. 

Even with the purchase of this school insurance, the parental insurance company is considered the 

primary coverage. At nominal cost, accident insurance is offered to students, covering them in cases of 

injury sustained while: 

attending school 

participating in school-sponsored activities 

traveling to and from school (it is also available for 24-hour coverage). 

53

Student Assistance Program (SAP) 

The primary goal of the SAP Team is to help students overcome barriers affecting their opportunity to 

learn. Issues with alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and mental health may be addressed in order that they 

may achieve, remain in school and advance. Before any action is taken, parents/guardians are notified 

and provided with approval forms that must be submitted prior to any action through SAP. Intervention 

and support may include monitoring, mentoring, and motivating for academic success 

The SAP Team is comprised of trained school professionals (guidance counselors, teachers, and 

administrators) who receive referrals from parents, teachers, students, and other school staff. This team 

works closely with outside agencies and other counseling and referral services. A list of team members is 

available in the Guidance Office. 

All School District action follows state-mandated guidelines for Student Assistance Programs. 

Student Computer Accounts 

Each student is assigned a username and password in order to access the schools computers. Your 

account has a personal folder with 10MB of storage available, but is not backuped by the District. You 

will be able to create, modify, and/or delete files. All teachers and administrators will have read access to 

student folders. 

At the end of each school year all student accounts will be deleted. If you have school work stored in 

your personal folder you will need to transfer it to another storage device before the end of the school 

year. 

You, as the account owner, are responsible for all actions and communications associated with your 

account. If you suspect your account or password has been comprised, report the incident to you teacher 

or principal immediately. 

If you forget your password or need it to be changed you must ask a teacher to request that your 

password be changed. Change of a password requests must be submitted by a teacher or principal. 

Some reminders for account and password management: 

Do not disclose your password to anyone. 

Usernames and Passwords are case sensitive. 

As the computer user you are responsible for protecting your computer account and files. 

At the end of each computer session you must log off. 

Student Dress 

The administration recognizes that each student’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of 

personal style and individual preference. However, personal appearance should not disrupt the 

educational process, call undue attention to the individual, violate federal, state, or local health or 

obscenity laws, or affect the welfare of the student or his/her classmates. Building principals will 

determine whether student dress is appropriate. In all cases, the decision of the Principal as to the 

appropriateness of attire is final. Specific dress rules include the following: 

Hats, sweatbands, bandannas, and head coverings of any type cannot be worn in the school 

building. 

Sunglasses cannot be worn in the school building. 

Pants, shorts, or skirts must be secured at the waist and cannot be worn “sag styles.” 

Shorts and skirts should be at least mid-thigh length. The garment must be at least at or below 

your longest finger tip, when your arms are held at your side, even if the clothing is layered. 

Halter, tube, crop, tank tops, spaghetti straps, low-cut tops and abbreviated tops that expose the 

midriff area or undergarments are prohibited. 

No undergarments may be exposed. 

Coats, jackets, or garments designed for protection against the weather may not be worn in the 

building during the school day. 

54

Jewelry or ornaments that may cause injury are not permitted; this includes wallet and/or key 

chains that are used to secure these items to one’s clothes. 

Clothing or items that display or advertise messages of drugs, alcohol, sex, profanity, and 

deviance or have suggestive meanings are prohibited (i.e. Hook-Ups, Co-Ed Naked, etc.). 

All males are to wear shirts with sleeves. 

All female clothing must have sleeves. 

Forms fitting athletic wear, spandex (i.e. biker shorts) are not permitted. 

Any clothing with lettering across the seat is not permitted. 

Clothing that is ripped, torn, or has holes is not permitted, even if the clothing is layered. 

Lounging/Pajama pants are not permitted 

Slippers are not permitted 

Heelies – Shoes with wheels are not permitted 

Students are required to wear specific types of clothing for physical education classes. They may also be 

required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in labs, extra-curricular activities, or other 

situations where special attire may be required to ensure the health or safety of the student. Students 

have the responsibility to keep themselves, their clothes and their hair clean. School officials may impose 

limitations on student participation in the instructional program where there is evidence that lack of 

cleanliness constitutes a health hazard. 

Students inappropriately attired will be required to obtain a change of clothing before return to classes is 

permitted. Absence from class for inappropriate attire will be considered unexcused and work may not be 

made up. Additional disciplinary action may be taken. 

Student Identification Cards and Numbers 

Each student receives a unique identification number. The student number is frequently required 

information on many forms (i.e. early dismissals, excuses, sports applications, health records, etc.) This 

number is both on the picture identification card and may also be obtained from a student’s schedule, 

report card, the Guidance office, or the Attendance Office. 

Student Photo Identification Cards are issued at the beginning of each school year. The student’s 

identification number is encoded on the identification card. The student identification card must be: 

Carried at all times during the school day 

Presented upon request of any school personnel 

Provided for borrowing library materials 

Presented to purchase cafeteria meals 

Presented to enter all closed school activities 

Presented at the Attendance Desk for early dismissal and or tardies 

Students must swipe ID cards upon entering the Guidance and/or Nurse’s Office 

Returned at the end of each school year for re-issuance at the start of the next school year 

Returned by graduating seniors to fulfill District obligations for graduation; the cards will be 

destroyed 

Replaced at the student’s expense if damaged, lost, or defective due to tampering or improper 

care 

There will be a $1.00 charge for the first replacement. Subsequent replacements will be assessed a 

charge of $5.00 each. 

Cards used fraudulently will be considered as forgery; appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. 

Students who habitually forget their student identification card will be subject to disciplinary action. 

Student Records 

Student educational records are maintained in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and 

Privacy Act of 1974 and the regulations of the State Board of Education on Pupil Records. 

55

Student Spectators 

Student spectators are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship and appropriate social behavior 

during all athletic events or school activities. Participation in athletic contests as a spectator carries 

specific responsibilities, namely quietly and respectfully standing (or singing) for the National Anthem and 

Alma Maters with hats removed. Responsible spectators also sit in designated student areas, or seats 

assigned by tickets; cheering is not to be offensive or rudely critical of student athletes or referees. 

Spectators at drama, musical or other types of events are also expected to be respectful towards the 

performers and other audience members. Students are prohibited from displaying any unauthorized 

signs. 

To participate in or attend any school activity, a student must be in attendance for at least one-half of the 

actual time that school is in session (before 10:30am). Students are also expected to report on time and 

be in attendance for the full day following events and activities as well. 


school activity until the suspension is completed. 

If the event is held on the weekend, students must attend school the last day of the week preceding the 

event. 

All rules in the Discipline section of this handbook will be enforced. The School District reserves 

the right to remove any spectator who does not comply with the established student conduct and 

WPIAL rules, and refer to proper law enforcement agencies. 

Telephone Usage 

Students cannot be called to the telephone during the school day, but emergency messages from 

parents/guardians will be conveyed to the student as soon as possible. Students will be permitted to use 

the Office phones, with a hall pass from their teacher. 

Vending Machines 

Vending machines for water, milk, juice, and healthy snacks are available in the cafeteria and gym lobby 

areas of the building. These beverages and snacks are to be consumed only at designated areas and 

times during the school day or school functions. From 7:18 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., all vending machines are 

closed, except during breakfast and lunch, when those in the cafeteria will be in operation. 

Video Surveillance 

Balancing the right of privacy of students and staff against the District’s duty to maintain order and 

discipline, the Norwin Board of Education has approved a policy that provides for the use of video camera 

surveillance on school grounds, school buses and in school buildings. 

Cameras shall only be installed in identified public areas, and on District-utilized transportation, except as 

otherwise provided in the policy. Cameras shall not be positioned in areas where individuals have a 

legitimate right to expect privacy; i.e., washrooms, change rooms, and staff rooms. Use of video 

surveillance in the District shall at all times comply with federal and state laws covering matters such as 

wiretapping/electronic surveillance and the privacy and disclosure of student records. 

Any activities detected through the use of video surveillance cameras that present a violation of school 

rules, breach of security, or possible criminal activity will be reported immediately to the appropriate 

authority and appropriate disciplinary consequences will be administered and/or criminal charges filed 

consistent with Board policy and procedures. 

For additional details, please review Norwin School District Board Policy 713, which is available at 

www.norwinsd.org under SCHOOL BOARD and “Board Policies.” 

56

Visitors 

All visitors must register in the Administration Office upon arrival at the high school. Entry without 

approved registration will be filed as trespassing with the local police. Students are not permitted to bring 

visitors to school. 

Working Permits 

The Child Labor Laws set standards of age, physical fitness, and education that must be met before a 

child can be employed in specific occupations. Students wishing to engage in approved employment 

during hours that do not violate the law nor interfere with regular school attendance student should apply 

for a suitable employment certificate. The application must be completed by the parent, physician, and 

employer, and be presented with the student’s birth certificate. Working permits can be obtained from the 

Attendance Office between the hours of 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM. During the summer months, these may 

be obtained from the High School Administration Office. 

57

Nurse’s Office 

HEALTH and MEDICAL INFORMATION 

The Nurse’s Office is in Room 101. It opens at 7:00 AM each morning and closes at 3:00 PM, Monday 

through Friday. The function of the Nurse’s Office is to perform state-mandated procedures, to conduct 

first–aid, to administer medication, and to serve as a teaching/learning site. It should not be considered a 

clinic; nurses are not permitted to diagnose or treat any illnesses or any injuries not incurred at school. 

Accidents 

When accidents occur at school, the school nurse renders appropriate first aid, contacts the parent or the 

emergency contact designated on the Emergency Information Card, and contacts the paramedics when 

necessary. The supervising teacher and the school nurse complete a school accident report. 

Asthma Inhalers 

Under the provisions of a state law, students are permitted, under certain conditions, to possess and selfadminister 

an asthma inhaler. For this to occur: 

The student must present written orders from his/her doctor for the inhaler to be carried in 

school. This order should also state the student’s name and directions for the inhaler use. 

Parent/Guardian must complete a permission form obtained from the nurse. 

The inhaler must be in the labeled, pharmacy box. 

The student must demonstrate self-administering skills to the school nurse. 

The student must demonstrate responsible behavior in the use of the medication to the building 

principal and school nurse. 

The student must report use of the inhaler to the nurse. 

Students who violate the procedures will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. 

Child Abuse 

The Child Protective Services Law in Pennsylvania requires that school employees report child abuse. 

When school officials have reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been abused, the official must 

notify the Childline and Abuse Registry. It is not the responsibility of school officials to determine the 

cause of suspected abuse or neglect. The principal may permit authorized personnel from the 

Department of Public Welfare or Child Protective Services to interview the student at school without prior 

parental consent if the suspected abuser is unknown or maybe the parents. If the student has suffered 

injuries so severe that immediate medical attention is needed, the principal will call the police to take the 

child to the hospital and will notify the parent. The principal may request the police to investigate the 

matter if suspected child abuse involves suspicion of law violations under the Pennsylvania Crimes Code. 

Communicable Diseases 

The following diseases are classified as communicable. Any child suffering from any of these shall be 

restricted to his/her own premises during the interval below: 

Chicken Pox 

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) 

Impetigo 

Strep throat 

Scarlet fever 

Scarletina 

DISEASE 

RESTRICTED PERIOD 

Readmitted to school at least five school days after 

first eruption appears or until vesicles become dry. 

Readmitted to school after 24 hours of medication 

has been administered and absence of eye 

drainage 

Readmitted to school after 24-48 hours of 

medication has been administered and absence of 

fever. 

58

Other Conditions: 

Persons absent or excused from school due to head lice, body lice, scabies, or ringworm may be 

readmitted after initial treatment with the approval of the school nurse. 

Parents who suspect any of the above conditions should contact the Nurse’s Office so that 

surveillance of other children can be initiated. 

Emergency Information for Sudden Illness or Injury 

The Nurse’s Office maintains an Emergency Information Card for each student. The information on this 

card enables the nurse/aide to contact the parent in the case of illness or injury. Only those persons 

indicated on the emergency card will be contacted and can give permission for the student to leave the 

building. It is essential that parents notify the Nurse’s Office of any changes to the emergency card 

information. New emergency cards are sent home yearly, and parents/guardians are asked to complete it 

with current information and return it to the Nurse’s Office as soon as possible. 

Illness at School 

When a student becomes ill or suffers injury at school, the student must obtain a pass to the Nurse’s 

Office from the teacher or cafeteria monitor. If the illness occurs between classes, the student must 

obtain a pass from the teacher whose class he/she will be missing. When possible the student should 

report to the Nurse’s Office at the beginning of class rather than the end of the period. In case of an 

emergency the student needs to report immediately or send for the nurse. 

When a student leaves the Nurse’s Office, the nurse will provide the student with a dated, timed, and 

signed pass to return to class. 

The nurse determines if treatment or dismissal is necessary and will contact the appropriate person listed 

on the Emergency Information Card to arrange for the student to leave school. 

If the student drove to school and the nurse determines the student is capable of driving home, he/she 

may do so with parent permission. 

Under no circumstances are students to make their own decision to call a parent or leave school because 

they feel ill or are injured. Students are not permitted to report to a location other than the Nurse’s Office 

when ill or injured. If a student leaves class or school without following these procedures, he/she will be 

subject to the penalty for unexcused absences and/or leaving school without authorization. Eighteenyear-old 

students may not leave the building without parent permission unless they are emancipated and 

following proper procedures. 

Immunizations 

Pennsylvania law requires that ALL children show proof of immunization before attending any school in 

the Commonwealth. Students enrolling into Norwin High School must provide evidence that these 

immunizations are complete. The state requires: 

4 Doses DT (diphtheria, tetanus), DPT is acceptable (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus). 

4 Doses OPV (polio) or IPV (polio) 

2 Doses MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) 

3 Doses Hepatitis B 

1 Dose age appropriate Varivax (chicken pox) or documented proof of contraction of the disease. 

Immunizations are documented on a Certificate of Immunization, which is returned to the student upon 

graduation; it is to the student’s advantage to have current information on the card. Updates on new 

immunizations can be made by calling the Nurse’s Office. 

If immunization requirements are not met, the principal must undertake suspension procedures. New 

students will not be admitted to the Norwin School District without the proper immunization 

59

documentation. If immunization is against the family’s religious beliefs or a moral or ethical conviction 

similar to a religious belief, such must be indicated on the Certificate of Immunization. If the immunization 

is not medically advisable, a physician’s statement must be included on the Certificate of Immunization. 

Immunizations and information may be received at the Pennsylvania State Department of Health in 

Greensburg, (724) 832-5315. 

Medication in School 

The administration of student medication, both prescription and nonprescription, during school hours 

is strongly discouraged as there are many safety concerns about students carrying medication, forgetting 

to take medication, having an adverse reaction to medication, and sharing medications. 

If a physician deems it medically necessary for a student to take medication, please arrange the times so 

that the medicine does not have to be administered at school. 

If both prescription and/or nonprescription medication must be administered during the school day, 

the following procedures must be followed: 

Obtain, from the Nurse’s Office a permission form, complete the form, and return it to the nurse. 

Obtain and submit a written order from your physician. This applies to both prescription and overthe-counter 

medications. This should clearly state the name of the child, name of the medication, 

date of order, dosage to be given, and time to be given. Injectable medications will not be given 

in school. 

The medication must be in a labeled pharmacy bottle with the label clearly stating the student’s 

name, physician’s name, medication name, dosage, and frequency. If the medication is over-thecounter 

medication, it must be in the original store package. The school district assumes that the 

correct medication is in this bottle, relying on the integrity of the pharmacy and the responsibility 

of the parent. 

Upon morning arrival at school, the student will deliver the medication directly to the Nurse’s 

Office for the proper storage, recording, and dispensing. The student is not to carry medication 

daily or to keep extra doses on his/her person. 

The student is responsible for reporting to the nurse at the designated time to receive his/her 

medication. 

It is the parent’s responsibility to monitor the number of doses sent to school and know when a 

refill is needed. 

If it is necessary for the parent to bring medication of any type to their child during the school day 

without proper documentation, it will be the parent’s responsibility to administer the medication in 

the nurse’s office. 

Please remember that your child may not receive medication if these procedures are not followed. 

The nurse will keep a daily record of medication administration. 

The only exceptions are inhalers and Epi-pens. The student may carry these after they are recorded in 

the Nurse’s Office. 

Pest Management 

The Norwin School District uses Integrated Pest Management approach for managing insects, rodents 

and weeds. The District’s goal is to protect every student from pesticide exposure through the routine 

cleaning and maintenance. Parents/guardians may request advanced notification of specific pesticide 

applications and must be placed on a school building’s notification registry by contacting the Building 

Principal in writing. 

Physical Examinations 

According to state law, all juniors (11 th graders), all new students from another state, and all new students 

from Pennsylvania with inadequate health records must submit a report of a physical examination 

60

conducted by a private physician or arrange for an examination by the school physician. Parents are 

encouraged to have the examination done by a private physician. The school will provide the report form, 

but the expense of the private examination is the parents’. 

The school doctor is here at the school most Thursdays at 8:30 am to 9:00 am to do physicals for working 

papers and drivers’ permits. This service is done free of charge. The student is responsible for having 

the appropriate form. 

Special Medical Conditions 

Parents are encouraged to report any medical conditions or prescriptive medications to the school nurse. 

The information is vital if a medical emergency arises, not only for the school but also for the medical 

personnel dealing with the emergency. Certain information may be shared with other staff members 

when the nurse deems it necessary for the health and safety of the student. Otherwise, information with 

the school nurse will be considered confidential. 

State Mandated Health Screenings 

By Pennsylvania law, all school students are required to have distance and near vision screening, height, 

and weight done yearly. All students in grade 11 will have a hearing screening. The nurse will send a 

pass to the student designating time for this screening. 

Student Aides 

A student may request permission from the school nurse to be a health room aide during study halls. 

Two students per period may be assigned to the Nurse’s Office. Duties of the helpers include admitting a 

student to the Nurse’s Office, completion of health room visit cards, and delivery of passes and 

messages. 

Students must receive a class release form from the Main Office and have it completed by the study hall 

teacher and the nurse. A permission note from the parent must be submitted to the nurse and attached 

to the release form. The student will be an aide for only one semester. 

61

Complaint Policy 

Parents/guardians are reminded that when they have a complaint, it is District procedure to resolve them 

at the lowest possible level and that the complaint be presented in writing. The process typically would 

follow these steps when there is a classroom concern: 

First step: classroom teacher 

Second step: building administrator 

Third step: district office administrator 

Final step: School Board 

Following this procedure will insure that the process is not delayed. All complaints must be filed within 

ninety (90) calendar days from the alleged incident. Complaints that do not follow the steps above will be 

redirected to insure that they are resolved at the lowest possible level. 

The Norwin School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, 

age, or handicap in the administration of any of its educational programs, activities, or with respect to 

employment. Inquiries should be directed to: 

Mr. Thomas H. Wrobleski 

Director of Human Resources 

Norwin School District 

281 McMahon Drive 

North Huntingdon, PA 15642 

62

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT YEARLY CALENDAR 

August 16, 2012 

Staff Development Day, No School 

August 17, 2012 


August 20, 2012 

Teacher Clerical Day, No School 

August 21, 2012 

First Day for Students 

September 3, 2012 

Labor Day, No School 

November 22 through 26, 2012 

Thanksgiving Recess, No School 

December 24, 2012 to January 1, 2013 

Winter Recess, No School 

January 2, 2013 

Classes Resume 

January 14, 2013 

Teacher Clerical Day, No School 

February 15, 2013 Snow Day, No School (1) 

February 18, 2013 


March 27, 2013 Snow Day, No School (2) 

March 28, 2013 Snow Day, No School (3) 

March 29, 2013 

Spring Recess, No School 

April 1, 2013 Snow Day, No School (4) 

May 10, 2013 Snow Day, No School (5) 

May 24, 2013 

Last Day for Students 

May 24, 2013 

Graduation Ceremony (evening) 

May 27, 2013 

Memorial Day, No School 

May 28, 2013 

School Picnic, No School 

May 29, 2013 

Teacher Clerical Day 

63


REGULAR BELL SCHEDULE 

Warning Bell 7:13 

Period 1 AM Tech 7:18 - 8:00 

Tardy Bell and Homeroom 7:18 - 7:34 

Pass 7:34 - 7:38 

Period 1 7:38 - 8:20 

Pass 8:20 - 8:24 

Period 2 8:24 - 9:06 

Pass 9:06 - 9:10 

Period 3 9:10 - 9:52 

Pass 9:52 - 9:56 

Period 4 9:56 - 10:38 

Pass 10:38 - 10:42 

Lunch A Lunch B Lunch C 

Cafeteria 10:42 – 11:12 Period 5 10:42 – 11:24 Period 5 10:42 – 11:24 

Pass 11:12 – 11:16 Pass 11:24 – 11:28 Pass 11:24 – 11:28 

Period 5 11:16 – 11:58 Cafeteria 11:28 – 11:58 Period 6 11:28 – 12:10 

Pass 11:58 – 12:02 Pass 11:58 – 12:02 Pass 12:10 – 12:14 

Period 6 12:02 – 12:44 Period 6 12:02 – 12:44 Cafeteria 12:14 – 12:44 

Pass 12:44 – 12:48 Pass 12:44 – 12:48 Pass 12:44 – 12:48 

Period 7 12:48 - 1:30 

Pass 1:30 - 1:34 

Period 8 1:34 - 2:16 

Dismissal 2:16 

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66 

66

67 

67

VERIFICATION FORM 


STUDENT HANDBOOK, STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES, 

STUDENT INTERNET ACCESS AGREEMENT 

I have received a copy of the Norwin High School Student Handbook, which includes the Student Rights 

and Responsibilities. I understand that it is my responsibility to know the information and rules found 

within these documents. It is also my responsibility to provide and review these policies, procedures and 

rules with my parents and/or guardians 

__________________________________________________ _____________ ___________ 

Student’s Name (Printed) Homeroom Grade 

________________________________________________________ 

Student’s Signature 

______________________ 

Date 

PARENT or GUARDIAN SECTION 

I have reviewed the Norwin High School Student Handbook, which includes the Student Rights and 

Responsibilities. 

Please initial the appropriate lines below. 

___________ 

I have reviewed the Norwin High School Student Handbook, Student Rights and 

Responsibilities with my child. 

I certify that the information in this form is correct. 

____________________________________________________________________________________ 

Parent/Guardian Name (Printed) 

____________________________________________________________________________________ 

Address 

_____________________________________ ___________ ____________ _____________________ 

City State Zip Code Telephone 

_______________________________________________________________ 

Parent/Guardian Signature 

___________________ 

Date 

68

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