UPPER SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2019-2020
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Welcome to the Tower Hill Upper School Welcome to the Upper School at Tower Hill! We believe in our motto, Multa Bene Facta (Many Things Done Well), in the classroom, on stage and on the field, track or court. Through vibrant curricular and extracurricular opportunities, we support and place equal importance upon the pursuit of scholarship and the exploration of leadership, interests and passions. The development of strong character is integral to our mission and program. Our holistic approach is to offer the best possible experience for learning, discovery, and growth. This handbook provides a 360-degree view of that experience together with additional guidelines, policies and information on what it means to be a member of the Tower Hill community. Our expectations are simple: We ask that each member of our community live by the core values of respect, honesty and responsibility. We are committed to helping each student develop his/her self-advocacy skills in a learning environment that is safe, open and inclusive. Our “Expectations of a Hiller,” in conjunction with our Honor Code, sets the standard that achievement by an individual or as a school, whether in academics, athletics or the arts, is meaningless without integrity, and we expect all members of our community to abide by these expectations. Each year, students are required to have a solid understanding of the school’s expectations as they are outlined in this handbook. Each student signs a pledge affirming they have both read and will commit to the Honor Code and the standards set forth in this handbook. If you have any questions about any part of our program, please do not hesitate to contact me or Mr. Art Hall, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life. We are looking forward to a great year! All my best,
Megan Cover Head of Upper School
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Table of Contents Welcome to the Tower Hill Upper School The School Day School Closings and Delays Features of the Schedule Morning Meeting Classes Class Meetings (Homeroom) Lunch Open Periods Recitation Athletics Upper School Schedule 2018-19
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Expectations of a Hiller Mission Honor at Tower Hill Honor Statement Honor Pledge
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Honor Board Honor Board Membership Honor Board Process Sanctions for Violations of the Honor Code Releasing or Reporting Honor Violations
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Disciplinary Board 13 Disciplinary Board Membership Disciplinary Board Process Sanctions for Disciplinary Violations Major Infractions Realizing or Reporting Disciplinary Sanctions
Substance Abuse and Weapons on School Property Substance Abuse Policy/Procedures Guidelines for Social Events Dress Code Dress Code Violations Proper Dress Guidelines
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Attendance 25 Excused Absences Unexcused Absences Consequences for Unexcused Absences Extended Absences Medical Leave Concussion Policy
Disciplinary System 11 Demerits Cutting Class Use of School Space During the Academic Day
Harassment, Bullying and Hazing Harassment Sexual Harassment Bullying and Hazing Investigation of Complaints of Harassment, Bullying or Hazing Prohibition on Retaliation
Cell Phone Policy Video Games
Lateness 27 What to Do When You’re Late to School Check-out Procedures End of the Day Checking Out During the School Day Going Home Sick Leaving School Without Permission
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Academic Technology 29 Application of the Tower Hill Technology Policy Tower Hill Accounts and Personal Devices On-Site Technology and Network Guidelines Privacy Safety Security General Responsibilities Inappropriate Personal Use Social Media Use Responsibility to Others Violations of Policies and/or Laws General Responsibilities Communications with School Employees Violations of this Policy Warranty Disclaimer
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Making The Grade: Academics and Achievement General Information Course Selection Course Recommendations Enrollment Against Recommendations Honors and Advanced Courses Self Advocacy and Student Responsibility
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Course Credits, Academic Loads, Requirements 37 Minimum Credit Units/Courses Required by Year Graduation Requirements Tower Term Drop/Add Procedure Report Cards
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Grading Scale, Associated Grade Point Averages and Academic Distinction 40 Letter Grade Equivalents and Grade Point Averages for Standard Courses Weighting Grading Academic Distinction - “Scholar” Recognition Scholar with Honors Scholar with Distinction Global Scholar Certificate Program Study Hall and Extra Help Recitation Open Periods Office Hours
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Homework 43 Tests and Test Calendar Semester Final Assessments Exam Weighting Incomplete Work Course Failures
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Student Leadership and Involvement Student Government Association Elections Boards Board Structure Board Chairs Leadership Conduct Removal from Office
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Clubs
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Pay It Forward - Service Learning Types of Service
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Senior Speeches
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Break a Leg - Theater Productions
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Forum 51 Student Support Your Support Team - Resources Meeting with Teachers Advisory Student/Advisor Relationship Senior Mentors Academics Learning The Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) Extended Time
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Extended Time for Exams Extended Time for Standardized Testing Behavior Emotional Well-being Physical Well-being College Counseling Reporting to Colleges/Universities
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Tutoring 54 Upper School’s General Philosophy on Outside Tutoring Peer Tutors Tutoring after Failure of Final Exam or Course For Parents Parent-Teacher Conferences
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Appendix A: Concussion Protocol “Return to Learn” Return to Learn Protocol Phase 1: No school Phase 2: Half-day attendance with accommodations Phase 3: Full-day attendance with accommodations Phase 4: Full-day attendance without accommodations Phase 5: Full school and extracurricular involvement “Return to Play”
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The School Day
School begins at 8:30 a.m. on Monday through Friday. Classes end at 2:40 p.m. daily, followed by Recitation, which runs from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m. on seven days out of the ten-day cycle. Athletic practices are held from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. Monday through Friday.
School Closings and Delays
Occasionally, School closes or opening time is delayed due to emergency situations, such as unsafe driving conditions or inclement weather. Students and families will be notified through Tower Hill’s Alert Now system, which will contact you through your home phone, cell phone, email and text. Any information about delays or closings will also be posted at www.towerhill.org.
Features of the Schedule
The Upper School uses a ten-day rotating schedule, which includes a morning assembly, class time, free periods, a break for snacks after the first two classes, lunch at 1:05 p.m., and office hours from 7:45 to 8:20 a.m. A weekly assembly period is held every Wednesday from 10:20 to 11:05 a.m.
Morning Meeting
We begin most school days with an assembly in the theater at 8:30 a.m. sharp. Every Wednesday, we begin with our first period class instead of morning meeting. During morning meeting, we make relevant announcements and allow time for Senior Speeches. Classes begin 10 minutes later.
Classes
The Upper School uses a 10-day rotating schedule with a typical class length of 60 minutes. There are five academic periods scheduled each day. Major academic classes meet seven out of the ten days in the schedule.
Class Meetings (Homeroom)
Class meetings occur on every day four. Each class meets in its Homeroom to discuss grade-specific information. The Class Deans and elected Student Government Officers run Homeroom meetings.
Lunch
All Upper School students are scheduled into the meal plan and are expected to attend lunch from 1:05 to 1:35 p.m. Our lunch options are phenomenal!
Open Periods
When you do not have a class scheduled, your time generally is yours to use as you see fit. You must remain on campus and should behave appropriately. Open periods are a great time to get homework done, meet with a teacher, or relax and socialize. In the first semester, ninth-graders and upperclassmen in academic difficulty are scheduled for a study hall during their open periods. After the first semester, if your grades are in good standing, the study hall becomes
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an open period and you may use the time as you see fit. Students of any grade who are not meeting their academic obligations may be scheduled for a study hall during an open period. After first quarter, seniors can earn the privilege of signing out during an open period. They must be in school at 8:30 a.m. and remain in school for all required periods, including assemblies, lunch, and sports. Seniors may receive this privilege only if they have completed their Service Learning requirement and have consent from parents/guardians. A permission slip signed by their parents and approved by the Head of the Upper School is required before a student may leave campus during a free period. These privileges can be revoked at any time during the school year.
Recitation
Recitation is a 30-minute period, from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m. on seven days out of the ten-day cycle, in which teachers meet with their classes to focus on collaboration and consultation. No new content is presented and there is no homework assigned during these periods. This is an ideal time for students to receive collective extra help.
Athletics
Athletics are a required element of the school day for most students. On a typical day, practice occurs from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m. Depending on the sport, games occur a few times a week or on the weekend. Go to www.HillersSports.com for team schedules and info, or to the Athletic Handbook for more information on our Athletic requirement.
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Upper School 10-Day Schedule
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Expectations of a Hiller Mission
I. Tower Hill School prepares students from diverse backgrounds for full and creative engagement with a dynamic world. Each student is provided with an educational experience that emphasizes the development of an inquisitive, discerning, and critical mind; the value of being creative and aesthetically sensitive; the appreciation of physical wellbeing; the ability to collaborate and to function as part of a team; and the growth of character. II. Tower Hill inspires students to be citizens who are active, responsible, honest, collaborative, empathetic, and respectful. It is our expectation that every Hiller will: Be Proud We care about our school, and treat each other with honor, civility and respect. We represent Tower Hill wherever we go, considering intentions and impact. We share the responsibility of caring for our buildings and grounds. We leave things better than we found them. Be Present We are present, engage with the community, demonstrate concern for others, and act appropriately. We value each other more than our digital devices. This means making a conscious choice to limit social media and video games in social settings, including lunch, assemblies, class and all other appropriate venues. Be Professional We are committed to upholding community standards and values at the highest level. This includes honoring the dress code, completing all school work with integrity and honesty, and advocating for oneself. Be Proactive We are proactive, considering both the near and distant future. This includes studying, completing homework carefully, using open periods wisely, making healthy food choices, recycling all recyclables, minimizing use of resources, and cleaning up after ourselves. We pay attention to the future of the greater school community by engaging in community service and also involving ourselves in clubs and co-curricular activities.
Honor at Tower Hill
Tower Hill School is an educational community committed to the ethical, intellectual, and physical growth of its students, both as individuals and as members of a community. Tower Hill recognizes that achievement by an individual or as a school in academics, athletics, and the arts is meaningless without integrity. We believe that honesty, respect for others and self, and concern for others’ person and property are fundamental standards; therefore, Tower Hill insists upon active support of these standards by students, faculty, and parents. You will be required each year to sign a statement that you have read, understand, and will actively support and comply with the Honor Statement and policies outlined in the Upper School Student Handbook. This is a way for the School to be certain that each student is aware of the importance of this part of their commitment to Tower Hill. It is also the reason you
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will be asked to acknowledge in writing on every piece of work submitted for credit that the work is your own.
Honor Statement
As a member of the Tower Hill community, I pledge to uphold the core values of honesty, responsibility, and respect and will not lie, cheat, mislead or steal. I will commit to the spirit and letter of this code by making good decisions, leading by example, and taking accountability for my actions. I realize I am responsible for enforcing the Honor Code by reporting any infraction I witness or become aware of within the community. I agree to comply with this Honor Statement and the policies outlined in the Upper School Student Handbook.
Honor Pledge
The following Honor Pledge is required for any work submitted for credit or a grade: On my honor, I have neither given nor received any unauthorized assistance on this assignment or assessment.
Honor Board
The purpose of the Honor Board is to uphold Tower Hill’s expectation that students conduct themselves in an honorable fashion and to provide a safe place where questions of honor can be heard, questioned, and rectified. Ultimately, the goal of each Honor Board is to educate students on what is, and what is not, honorable behavior, with the understanding that we are all human and can make mistakes. Breaches of honorable conduct include, but are not limited to, lying, misrepresentation of facts in academic work, cheating, deceiving and stealing. Some common examples of infractions are: unauthorized copying of work from a peer, the internet, or other source (whether on homework, summer reading, labs, quizzes, tests, projects, etc.); handing in a paper without citing appropriate sources; and unauthorized verbal or written sharing of content that will be on an upcoming quiz, quest, or test with peers. Tower Hill may respond to an alleged honor violation without convening the Honor Board. At the discretion of the Head of Upper School and the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, the Honor Board may meet without students. In some cases, a Disciplinary Hearing also may be called when there is an alleged honor violation. In other cases, automatic action may be warranted and the School will not proceed with either an Honor Board or a Disciplinary Hearing. The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or the Head of the Upper School may convene the Honor Board if s/he believes that the alleged violation is appropriately placed before the Honor Board. First, the teacher, staff member, or administrator will have a conversation with the student(s) in question to discuss whether lying, cheating, misleading, or stealing took place. The teacher, staff member, or administrator will then report his/her findings to the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life who, in consultation with the Head of Upper School, will determine whether or not to proceed with an Honor Board. If the decision is made not to proceed with an Honor Board, the Assistant Head of School
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and Dean of Student Life or the Head of Upper School will take necessary steps inform the student(s) and their family/families; take steps to conduct an investigation, if necessary; and determine discipline, as deemed appropriate based on the circumstances of the case and subject to the approval of the Head of School. Whether or not an Honor Board is convened, the Head of School will have the final authority to determine any consequences that should be imposed, in his/her sole and exclusive discretion.
Honor Board Membership
Students nominate themselves or are nominated by others to serve on the Honor Board, and then are voted upon by the Student Government Association. The voting members of the Honor Board are senior, junior, and sophomore representatives and Class Deans. The VicePresident of SGA will serve as the chair. The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will serve as a non-voting member. The student’s advisor (or another trusted faculty member) will also be present as a support to the student.
Honor Board Process
If the decision is made to proceed with an Honor Board, the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will inform the student(s) and their family/families. An Honor Board is held in a private location, and all proceedings are confidential. The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life calls the Honor Board meeting to order with all members present, and begins with an explanation of the alleged violation, process, and expectations. In cases of academic dishonesty, teachers are first asked to share their side of the situation without the student and student advisor (or trusted faculty member) present. After a teacher is finished with her/his explanation, s/he is asked to leave the room. The student in question is then asked to explain his/her side of the situation. Honor Board members (student and faculty) attending the hearing may ask questions of both parties for clarification and further information. After hearing the details of the alleged honor violation, the voting members of the Honor Board shall make a recommendation, based on a simple majority, to the Head of the Upper School and the Head of School concerning appropriate consequences or action(s) that should be taken, if any. Since the Honor Board is governed by the spirit expressed in the Honor Code, it will base its recommendation on the principles that Tower Hill students and faculty support honesty, responsibility, and respect for others. While the tone of Honor Board hearings is necessarily formal, the hearings themselves are meant to clarify a situation, not to imply automatic guilt. We recognize that students undergoing a hearing may be frightened, and will have a student’s advisor (or another trusted faculty member) accompany the student for support. In an effort to educate our community and uphold our commitment to the Honor Code, at the conclusion of and for 24 hours after an Honor Board Hearing, a general written report will be published and posted outside the Dean’s Office about the violation, the proceedings, and the verdict.
Sanctions for Violations of the Honor Code
Below is a non-exhaustive list of potential sanctions for honor offenses. The severity of a sanction may vary based on the nature or circumstances of each case. Whether or not the Honor Board is convened, the Head of School will have the final authority to determine any consequences that should be imposed, in his/her sole discretion.
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Honor offenses may warrant one or more of the following sanctions:
• Letter of warning • Loss of privileges for a period of time (free periods, sports, clubs) • Rewriting the work in question • Grade penalty (decided upon with the teacher), or failing grade on work in question • Loss of any leadership position • Letter of Disciplinary Probation • Letter of apology to the teacher, Head of Upper School, and Head of School • Saturday detention • Weekday in-school suspension • Out-of-school suspension • Withholding of enrollment contract • Expulsion from Tower Hill
Releasing or Reporting Honor Violations
The specific contents of Honor Board hearings are confidential, and will be released only to the parties involved, School officials with a legitimate educational interest, and in accordance with federal, state or local laws, including, but not limited to, a lawfully issued subpoena. Information about honor violations or allegations of honor violations will remain private, subject to the School’s need to disclose such information to conduct an investigation; determine appropriate, responsive action; and further the educational or learning experience of the Tower Hill community. Tower Hill reserves the right to report and/or release records reflecting an honor violation or a resulting sanction to colleges/universities or, in case of transfer, other schools if deemed necessary.
Disciplinary System
The welfare of the School community as well as the School’s ability to grow and be effective in its programs is directly related to each student’s willingness to suspend a portion of his or her individuality. Students attending Tower Hill are expected to conduct themselves with honor, responsibility and respect and to have the integrity and self-discipline needed to accept the rules, policies, and expectations of the School. It is a privilege, not a right, to be a member of the Tower Hill community. As such, everyone is expected to behave in a manner consistent with Tower Hill’s standards of conduct, both on and off campus, at all times during enrollment. If a student exhibits negative behavior while clearly representing Tower Hill at an event that is not sponsored by or does not take place at Tower Hill (such as another school’s dance or an away athletic contest); during any trip or travel sponsored, organized, or sanctioned by the School; or in a way that affects the School community, regardless of the time or location of such behavior, that behavior will be subject to discipline and responded to accordingly. This also holds true for a student’s online presence—students who are found to have openly disparaged Tower Hill or members of its community in a libelous, inappropriate, or harassing manner in a public internet forum—Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Kik, Twitter, Yik Yak, etc.—
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may face disciplinary action comparable to that which would occur if the offense occurred in school. For more information, please visit the Academic Technology section of this handbook.
Demerits
Demerits can be given by any member of the Tower Hill faculty and should first be reported to the student verbally. Teachers then should send an email to the appropriate Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, the student, and the student’s advisor. The Class Dean will alert the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life and the student’s advisor once the student has accrued 3 demerits or more. The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will convene a disciplinary board, which will recommend appropriate consequences. If you are involved in infractions of School rules, you may receive a demerit. If you receive a total of three demerits, you will go before the Disciplinary Board. Examples of infractions that normally will result in a demerit are the following:
• Dress code • Chewing gum • Arriving late to class • Cell phone use from 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. (cell phones should not be seen throughout the academic day) • Inappropriate use of cell phone or technology • The fourth and any additional unexcused lateness to school per quarter • Inappropriate/disrespectful behavior • Unexcused absence from class or part of a class (two demerit offense) • Foul language • Disrespectful treatment of School property • Not returning a School computer to the library at the appropriate time
The Disciplinary System is designed to deter inappropriate behavior. Multiple demerits indicate a pattern not conducive to the enrichment of the community and therefore will lead to more serious consequences, as described below:
• Three demerits within an academic year will lead to a meeting with the Class Dean. • Six demerits within an academic year will lead to a Disciplinary Board hearing, Letter of Warning, and possible additional consequences. • Eight demerits will lead to an additional Disciplinary Board hearing and likely will lead to Disciplinary Probation. • Students who accumulate ten demerits or more risk suspension or expulsion.
While the number of demerits will not accumulate from year to year, records of these infractions will be kept and may be consulted in future disciplinary decisions.
Cutting Class
You should not miss class for any reason unless you have written permission received ahead of time from a parent, guardian or teacher. The consequence for skipping a class is two demerits: a
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demerit for the time missed in class and a second demerit for having skipped class. Any student who is feeling ill and wishes to be excused from class should inform the teacher and report to the Nurse’s Office.
Use of School Space During the Academic Day
If you do not have a class, you may sit quietly in a free space such as the library, upper or lower lobby lounges, or an open classroom. Seniors may sit in the senior Homeroom or may visit the dining room from 8:00 to 10:25 a.m. Students should not be in the Field House, Weaver Gym, training room or locker rooms before 3:15 p.m. without supervision by a faculty member.
Disciplinary Board
A Disciplinary Board hearing may be called by the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or the Head of Upper School when a student is alleged to have violated our core values of honor, responsibility and respect and/or our rules, policies, and expectations. The Head of Upper School may take disciplinary action without convening the Disciplinary Board. In some situations, at the discretion of the Head of Upper School and the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, the Disciplinary Board may meet without student representatives. In some situations, a disciplinary hearing also may be called when there is an alleged honor violation. Whether or not a Disciplinary Board is convened, the Head of School will have the final authority to determine any consequences that should be imposed, in his/her sole and exclusive discretion.
Disciplinary Board Membership
The voting members of the Disciplinary Board are the vice-Presidents of the sophomore, junior and senior classes, one additional representative from each class, and the Class Deans. The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will serve as a non-voting member. The Vice-President of SGA will serve as the chair. The Disciplinary Board will meet bi-weekly to review its mission and procedures.
Disciplinary Board Process
The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or the Head of the Upper School may convene the Disciplinary Board if s/he believes, in his/her sole and exclusive discretion, that the alleged violation of school rules and policies is appropriately placed before the Disciplinary Board. Prior to a Disciplinary Board proceeding, relevant parties are asked about the alleged offense (e.g., an advisor, teacher, or administrator may speak to the student(s) in question as well as any reporting parties, witnesses, etc.) and any findings will be reported to the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life who, in consultation with the Head of Upper School, will determine whether to proceed with a Disciplinary Board. If the decision is made to proceed with the Disciplinary Board, the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will inform the student(s) and/or their family/families. A Disciplinary Board is held in a private location, and all proceedings are confidential. The Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will call the meeting to order with all members present, and
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begin with an explanation of the alleged violation, process, and expectations. In cases where more than one person is involved, teachers, staff members, or administrators will first be asked to share their side of the situation without the student(s) and advisor(s) present. After finishing her/his explanation, s/he is asked to leave the room. The student in question will then be asked to explain his/her own side of the situation. Disciplinary Board members (students and faculty) may ask questions of the parties for clarification and further information. After hearing the details of the alleged disciplinary violation, the voting members of the Disciplinary Board shall make a recommendation, based on a simple majority, to the Head of the Upper School and the Head of School concerning appropriate consequences or action(s) that should be taken, if any. If the decision is made not to proceed with a Disciplinary Board, the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, the Head of the Upper School, and/or the Head of School will take the necessary steps to inform the student(s) and/or their family/families; investigate the allegation (or commission an external investigator to do so); and determine discipline, as deemed appropriate based on the circumstances of the case. The Head of School, in his/her sole and exclusive discretion, has final responsibility to make, approve, or change any decisions of the Disciplinary Board. When a final decision is reached, it is then communicated to the student(s) involved and their parent(s).
Sanctions for Disciplinary Violations
Below is a non-exhaustive list of sanctions for disciplinary offenses. The severity of a sanction may vary based on the nature or circumstances of each case. Disciplinary offenses may warrant one or more of the following sanctions:
• Letter of Warning • Letter of Disciplinary Probation • Loss of privileges for a period of time (free periods, sports, clubs) • Letter of apology to the teacher, Head of Upper School, and Head of School • Loss of any leadership position • Withholding re-enrollment contract • Saturday detention • Weekday in-school suspension • Out-of-school suspension • Withholding of enrollment contract • Expulsion from Tower Hill
Major Infractions
Students involved in “major infractions” of School policies or who repeatedly demonstrate their unwillingness to accept what is asked of them will meet with the Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, and/or Head of the Upper School, at which point an appropriate course of action will be determined. Sanctions for major infractions may include, but are not limited to, loss of privileges, Letter of Warning, Disciplinary Probation, suspension, and expulsion. • A Letter of Warning may be sent to the student and his/her parents when a pattern of infractions occurs or when an infraction is serious enough to warrant such a letter. The letter
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puts the student on notice that his or her behavior needs to be exemplary, and that a future infraction of any kind will be treated more severely. • Loss of privileges may be warranted. Loss of privileges may include temporary or permanent loss of permission to participate in athletic practices and contests, extracurricular activities, and/or driving privileges. With serious infractions, or repeated minor infractions, eligibility for, or the holding of, a leadership position may be revoked. Students who hold leadership positions are expected to resign those positions in the instance of a major infraction. • Saturday detention may be required if a student earns multiple demerits, a pattern of infractions occurs or when an infraction is serious enough to warrant such a consequence. • Disciplinary Probation and/or Expulsion may be warranted. When a serious question arises about whether a student should continue at Tower Hill, the student may be placed on Disciplinary Probation for a specified period of time. Prior to the end of the probation period, the student must submit to the Head of Upper School a letter indicating what the student feels he/she has gained by being at Tower Hill, and what the School has gained by his/her presence. The student will discuss the letter with the Head of the Upper School, who will make a recommendation to the Head of School concerning the student’s future at Tower Hill. • In-school suspension is a one to three-day period in which the student remains on campus, but may not attend classes, participate in the school day, or participate in any athletic or extracurricular activities. School work may be completed during this time. • Out-of-school suspension is a specified period during which a student is not permitted on campus. The student will not attend classes or participate in any athletic or extracurricular activities until the suspension is over. Though teachers will support a student’s re-entry, faculty members are not responsible for re-teaching material that is missed due to a suspension. Tests, quizzes and assigned work missed during a suspension may be made up, however, it is up to the student to make these arrangements. The Advisor, Class Dean, coaches and teachers will be informed when a student is on suspension. The following are examples of infractions that are considered major infractions. Major infractions may lead to immediate suspension or dismissal from school:
• Any violation of our Policy on Substance Abuse and Weapons on School Property. • Any violation of our Policy on Harassment, Bullying, and Hazing. • Unauthorized presence in any School building, including locker rooms, gym, field house, etc. (for example, students involved in a weekend or evening activity are expected to remain at the site of the activity, rather than elsewhere in the building). • Leaving campus without permission during the school day, including during athletic practice time. • Possession of a School key.
This list of major infractions is not an exhaustive list. The Head of the Upper School and/or Head of School may determine in their sole discretion what discipline is warranted in any case without the involvement of either the Honor or Disciplinary Board.
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Realizing or Reporting Disciplinary Sanctions
Tower Hill reserves the right to report and/or release records reflecting an honor violation or a resulting sanction to colleges/universities or, in case of transfer, other schools if deemed necessary.
Harassment, Bullying and Hazing General Statement on Harassment, Bullying and Hazing at Tower Hill
As a community, we embrace diverse perspectives including, but not limited to, sex, race, religion, color, ancestry, national origin, gender and gender expression, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, and/or political beliefs. We strongly believe that you and all members of the community should feel safe within Tower Hill. It is expected that all students will treat every member of the community with respect and dignity. Any harassment, bullying, or hazing of others, including sexual harassment, is prohibited; this includes when a student is on campus, off campus, and online, as set forth in the disciplinary policies above. If at any point you feel as though you have been treated by anyone in a manner that makes you feel unsafe or insecure, you should seek out a teacher or administrator immediately to discuss the situation. There will be consequences for anyone in the community who is found to be in violation of our Harassment, Bullying and Hazing policy. Tower Hill strives to maintain a community free of all forms of unwanted or unacceptable behavior toward others that is intended to or has the effect of harassing, intimidating, humiliating, degrading, or hazing an individual. Any such behavior is unacceptable, a violation of School policy, and subject to School disciplinary procedures. The intent of this policy is not to suppress respectful thought, study, or discussion concerning controversial issues, all of which are critical to a vibrant educational environment. The purpose of this policy is to prohibit harassment, bullying and hazing so that each member of the School community has an equal opportunity to work, learn, and develop to his or her full potential in a safe environment.
Harassment
Tower Hill School prohibits harassment by any member of the Tower Hill community. Harassment includes but is not limited to any physical, verbal, written, or electronic behavior that creates a threatening, intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This prohibition includes sexual harassment, as set forth below, as well as any harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex, gender identity or gender expression, religion, race, color, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, or other distinguishing characteristics. Harassment can result from the conduct of (i) any student, directed towards any other student; (ii) any student, directed towards any employee; or (iii) any employee, directed towards any student. Because Tower Hill community members are expected to act appropriately and because students’ behavior, whether inside or outside of School, reflects on the School and can have a significant impact on life at School, there are times when it is appropriate and important for the School to respond to incidents that occur outside of School and beyond School hours. Therefore, Tower Hill reserves the right to discipline those in the community who engage in harassment of others at any location and at any time if such harassment causes a disruption or could have a negative impact on the Tower Hill community. The School reserves the right
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to address harassment, regardless of where such harassment takes place. This includes, but is not limited to, harassment that takes place on School property, off School property, during School sponsored activities or activities in which the School participates, on School trips or otherwise affects the School and/or its students.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is a type of harassment that is based on a person’s sex, gender identity or expression or sexual orientation (status). Sexual harassment negatively affects the spirit of community at Tower Hill and will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment includes denigrating or insulting behavior or comments based on a person’s status, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, stalking, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature without the explicit consent of the recipient. By way of example, sexual harassment includes but is not limited to:
1. Unwelcome verbal behavior, such as sexual innuendos, comments, suggestions, jokes, whistling, foul or obscene language, and lewd or derogatory remarks, regardless of whether directed at persons of the opposite or same sex, gossip regarding one’s sex life, body, sexual activities, deficiencies or prowess, and questions about one’s sex life or experiences.
2. Unwelcome physical behavior, such as touching, rubbing or massaging someone’s neck or shoulders, pats, squeezes, grabbing, groping, kissing, fondling, repeatedly brushing against someone’s body or impeding or blocking normal movement.
3. Unwelcome nonverbal and/or visual harassment, such as posting or sending sexually suggestive or derogatory or status-based messages; posting or sending offensive text, e-mail or voice-mail messages; or creating, sending or posting unwanted or offensive letters or poems, pictures, cartoons or drawings, even in one’s own locker.
4. Unwelcome sexual advances, such as pressure for sexual favors, requests for sexual favors in return for a perceived benefit, or threats if sexual favors are not provided; and
5. Any other unwelcome sexual or status-based contact, act or interaction.
Bullying and Hazing
Hazing or bullying in any form is unacceptable within the Tower Hill community. Bullying is defined as any intentional verbal, physical, written, or electronic behavior – or pattern of behavior – that:
1. Physically harms or damages a person or person’s property; 2. Has the effect of interfering with someone’s education or life in or out of school; 3. Creates an intimidating or threatening environment; or 4. Has the effect of disrupting the orderly operation of the School.
Bullying may be physical or emotional. Physical bullying includes hitting, punching, poking,
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shoving, tripping, vandalizing and stealing. Emotional bullying includes name-calling, threatening, taunting, malicious and incessant teasing, spreading rumors and persistently excluding others from a group or activity. Bullying includes cyber bullying. Bullying also includes coercing or encouraging others to engage in such behavior. Bullying includes but is not limited to behavior shown to be motivated by race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, mental or physical disability or other distinguishing characteristics. Hazing is defined as any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally humiliates, intimidates, or endangers the health or safety of a student, or which willfully destroys or removes the property of another for the purpose of initiation or admission into, or affiliation or continued involvement with, any organization or group. The School reserves the right to address bullying and hazing, regardless of where or when such bullying or hazing takes place. The School reserves the right to discipline those in the community who engage in bullying or hazing of others at any location and at any time if such bullying causes a disruption or has a potential negative impact on an individual in the Tower Hill community.
Investigation of Complaints of Harassment, Bullying or Hazing
If a student believes that s/he – or someone s/he knows – has been a victim of any occurrence or potential occurrence of harassment, bullying or hazing, that student should immediately report that incident to the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or the Head of Upper School, or any other teacher or administrator with whom the student feels comfortable. All complaints will be investigated. The investigation may be conducted by Tower Hill or by a third party designated by Tower Hill. The steps to be taken during the investigation will vary depending upon the nature of the allegations. Generally, the investigation may consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual against whom the complaint is made, and others who have knowledge of the alleged incident or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of the evaluation of any other information or documents which may be relevant to the particular allegations. Due to their sensitive nature, allegations of sexual harassment, stalking and sexual assault will be handled directly by a member of the Tower Hill staff trained and certified in handling such matters. Complainants will be given the option of anonymity and under no circumstances will be compelled to meet with the individual against whom the complaint is made. Reports of harassment, bullying or hazing, and information gathered in investigating and responding to such reports, will be treated as confidential subject to the School’s need to disclose such information in order to conduct its investigation and to take appropriate, responsive action. The School also may be required to disclose certain information to comply with its legal obligations. In the event an investigation results in the conclusion that a violation of this policy has occurred, Tower Hill will take prompt, appropriate action to address and, where appropriate, remediate the violation. Appropriate remedial action may include but is not limited to counseling, awareness training, parent-teacher conferences, a warning, suspension, exclusion,
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expulsion, transfer, remediation, termination, or discharge. The School reserves the right to address violations of this Harassment, Bullying and Hazing policy without an appearance before the Disciplinary or the Honor Boards. In the event that the investigation suggests that the harassment or bullying at issue also may violate Delaware criminal statutes, Tower Hill may report the results of the investigation to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Prohibition on Retaliation
Submission of a good faith complaint of harassment or bullying will not affect a student’s future grades, assignments, learning environment or opportunities. Retaliation is a serious violation of this policy and should be reported immediately. Tower Hill will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator or other member of the school community who retaliates against any person who reports an incident of alleged harassment or bullying or who retaliates against any person who assists or participates in an investigation. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment.
Substance Abuse and Weapons on School Property
Tower Hill School’s top priorities are always the safety of its students and community, both on and off campus, and providing the most conducive environment for a student’s well-being and growth, academically and personally, both inside and outside of school. The School prohibits the consumption, sale, purchase, possession or distribution of alcohol, illegal drugs or any improper use of prescription medication by any student, on or off campus. This policy applies to any on or off campus function, event, contest, or activity in which Tower Hill participates or that it sanctions, including travel to and/or from an off-campus activity. The School forbids the possession or use of harmful or illegal weapons, or any object that could be reasonably perceived as a weapon. The School reserves the right to investigate and discipline community members for any and all violations of this Substance Abuse and Weapons policy, regardless of where or when a violation occurs. Students should not bring alcohol, tobacco products (including E-cigarettes or “vapes” of any form), drugs, or weapons of any kind to Tower Hill facilities or Tower Hill sponsored events. If students require ongoing medication or take prescription medicine for a current ailment, they should check in with the School nurse to receive any necessary medications. We reserve the right to expel students found to be consuming, selling, buying, distributing, or under the influence or in possession of illegal drugs or prescribed drugs that are used improperly.
Substance Abuse Policy/Procedures
A student is considered to be in violation of the Substance Abuse policy, whether on or off campus, if he/she is found:
• Under the influence (consuming any amount of alcohol, using illegal drugs or abusing prescription medication)
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• Buying, selling, distributing, receiving or possessing alcohol or drugs, or attempting to buy, sell, distribute, receive, hold or possess alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medication (except if in possession of medication that is prescribed).
If a violation of this policy is suspected or confirmed:
1. The students will be placed under the care of a teacher, chaperone or administrator and his/her parents will be contacted immediately. 2. If a student is suspected of being under the influence, he/she will be administered a breathalyzer test. 3. If parents/guardians are not available and the incident occurs during school hours, the student will be accompanied to the Nurse’s Office. 4. If the incident occurs outside of school hours or off campus and parents/guardians cannot be reached, the School reserves the right to contact appropriate medical assistance (Emergency Services) and/or law enforcement officials. 5. The School reserves the right to immediately expel students found to be under the influence or in possession of illegal drugs.
The School will always consider the well-being of the student first and will help him/her in seeking the appropriate support(s).
Guidelines for Social Events
We encourage you and your parents to partner with the School to ensure the health and welfare of our community, particularly the students. When you are attending any Schoolrelated event, or any event chaperoned or sanctioned by a member of the School or held on School property, it is considered a School function. At such an event, all School rules are enforced. You are expected to abide by all School rules and policies. We, as a school, reserve the right to use practical means (such as a breathalyzer test or consultation with police officers) to determine whether or not you are under the influence of illegal substances at such an event. The School reserves the right to ask you to leave an event if you are suspected of being under the influence, and will communicate with a parent in such a case. You and your parents will also want to be familiar with your state’s hosting laws as they pertain to minors. Tower Hill students should always remember that they are representatives of our community and should abide by our core values of honor, responsibility and respect. Therefore, they will be held accountable for their compliance with School rules and policies at all times. Tower Hill students and parents should be aware that the School may report certain disciplinary or honor violations, or alleged violations, to child protection agencies, law enforcement, and other entities as it deems necessary or as required by state and federal law.
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Dress Code
Tower Hill’s dress code is connected to the School’s mission that prepares students from diverse backgrounds for full and creative engagement with a dynamic world. The school’s dress requirements, therefore, stem from an effort to provide an environment that is comfortable, but conducive to education. Student attire should reflect a positive portrayal of self and respect for the instructional environment. All clothing should be neat and clean with appropriate hems and cuffs. Clothing should be free from holes, paint spots, frayed edges, etc., and should fit appropriately. The School’s specific policies regarding dress are outlined below. Parents and students are urged to contact the School if they have questions regarding this information. If the Upper School dress guidelines present a challenge for anyone in the student body those individuals are encouraged to speak directly to the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life. The final decision about the appropriateness of a student’s dress rests with the Upper School faculty, Class Dean, Head of Upper School, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, and the Head of School.
Dress Code Violations:
Infractions of the dress code may be handled in one or more of the following ways:
• Student will call home for appropriate dress. • Appropriate clothing may be given to student. • Demerits will be assigned.
Missing class due to a violation of the dress code will be considered an unexcused absence; therefore, a student usually will receive no credit for any work missed. In addition, repeated violations may result in disciplinary probation or suspension.
Proper Dress Guidelines Shirts
• Dress shirt, turtleneck or polo shirt with a naturally turned collar. • Collared shirts must be tucked in all the way around at all times. • Shirts should not be low cut, tight or revealing in nature. • T-shirts are only permitted when worn under sweaters or other outerwear. • Shoulders should be covered and sleeveless tops must have a strap width of at least three inches. Halter tops and strapless shirts are not within dress guidelines.
Pants/Shorts • Clean dress pants/shorts with a belt; capri pants or full-length pants. • Pants or shorts may not have holes. • Shorts and rompers of an appropriate length may be worn until Nov. 1 and after March 1, and at any time the temperature is forecasted to exceed 80 degrees. • No yoga pants or excessively tight pants are permitted. • Presentable leggings (no cut-outs) worn with a tunic, long shirt or sweater that falls to the upper to mid-thigh. Athletic leggings are not within dress guidelines. Sweatshirts/sweat-jackets may not be worn with leggings. • While colored denim is permissible, students should not wear anything resembling
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traditional blue jeans. • Full-length rompers are permitted with appropriate sleeve length (no strapless, no spaghetti straps).
Dresses/Skirts • Sleeveless dresses must have a top strap width of at least three inches. • Dress length must be no higher than to the top of the fingers of a fully extended hand. • Skirts should be no higher than to the top of the fingers of a fully extended hand. • Dresses that have spaghetti straps, bare back, off the shoulder, halter, tube, crop, sundress or tank top styles are not permitted. Footwear • Shoes in good repair that cover the entire foot; laces must be tied. • Sling backs or slides with a rim around the heel are also acceptable. • Students may wear sandals on non-lab days. • Flip-flops or backless slides are not within dress guidelines. Outerwear • Sweaters in good repair; collared shirts must be worn underneath. • Tower Hill spirit wear is permitted. • Only Tower Hill sweatshirt apparel is permitted. • Students should not wear outdoor jackets, coats or hats of any kind in School. • Quarter-zip and full-zip fleeces are permitted. Grooming • Students are expected to be well-groomed. • Any haircuts, hair coloring or piercings that are deemed by the administration to be inappropriate or distracting are not permitted. Other non-appropriate items for all students include: • T-shirts or shirts that have large-lettered advertising. • Clothing that is excessively tight, overly revealing, inappropriately short or revealing while standing, bending, sitting or moving. • No undergarments showing at any time. • Materials that are mesh, sheer or see-through are to be worn with an undergarment that is not mesh, sheer or see-through. Dress-down Days/Jeans Days On these special days, students may wear jeans, sweatpants or shorts along with t-shirts, sweatshirts or tops of their choosing. However, dress/skirt/shorts length and top coverage rules are still mandatory. Non-appropriate items (see list) are not permitted. If a student does not want to participate in a fundraising jeans day, they do not have to make the donation and, therefore, should be in dress code. If there are questions about these rules, students should ask a faculty member BEFORE the dress-down day so that warnings are not given for noncompliance and this privilege lost. While dress is casual on these days, clothing that is deemed by the faculty or administration to be inappropriate or distracting is not permitted.
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Cell Phone Policy
Upper School students are permitted to have their cell phones on campus and on their person throughout the school day. Students should not have their phones visible (out of their pockets, book bags or lockers) from 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., unless they have permission from a teacher. Our expectations of each Hiller is that they are present and engaged throughout the academic day. These devices are a distraction and interfere with our mission as a School. If your parent or guardian needs to get in touch with you during these hours, they may contact the Upper School Office and a message will be given to you.
Video Games
Video games and/or “gaming” is not permitted at Tower Hill during the academic day.
Attendance
We all agree that one of the most important elements to succeeding in school is actually being there. Regular attendance and arriving on time are essential. Please adhere to following policies: School starts promptly at 8:30 a.m. If you are going to be absent or late, a parent/guardian must contact the Upper School Administrative Assistant by 9:30 a.m. If we don’t hear from you, you will hear from us. This policy applies for any mandatory school event. If you are absent on a given day, you should not be in the building or attending school events later that day unless your absence has been excused for reasons unrelated to illness.
Excused Absences
Excused absences are those deemed by the school to be for legitimate reasons, such as illness, court appearances, religious observances, or other unique circumstances. These absences should be arranged in advance by contacting the Upper School Administrative Assistant; depending on the reasons for the absence, it may or may not be considered excused. Providing a note from a parent or guardian explaining the nature of the absence does not automatically mean the absence will be excused. In the case of an excused absence, you are responsible for notifying your teachers in advance when possible, and for following up with them upon your return to School. Students generally will receive the same number of days to make up missed work as the number of days absent that were excused (for example, if out for two days, two days to make up work).
Unexcused Absences
There is ample vacation time at Tower Hill, so you are expected to be in regular attendance before and after both school holidays and long weekends. All requests to be excused at these times must be submitted in writing to the Head of Upper School. However, except for unusual circumstances, absences during these times will be considered unexcused.
Consequences for Unexcused Absences
If your absence is unexcused, you will receive a maximum of 50 percent of the credit earned for any test, quiz, or graded assignment missed during that absence. Your teachers are not
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obligated to help you make up any work missed during an unexcused absence, nor is extra time granted to make up such work.
Extended Absences
All Tower Hill Students are required to attend School during the academic calendar year in order to matriculate into the next grade level, thus fulfilling their residency requirement. If you are sick or have an illness that lasts for more than 3 days, a note from your physician should be given to the Upper School Administrative Assistant. Students who miss more than 15 academic days (3 weeks) due to illness or unforeseen circumstances will be asked to meet with the Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, and the Head of Upper School to determine their eligibility to progress into the following year of study.
Medical Leave
A student in need of medical leave must be under a doctor’s care and supervision. The student should present the Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, or Head of Upper School with a doctor’s note stating the reason for the leave and the expected duration of the leave. The School, family, school counselor, Class Dean, and Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life will meet to determine a plan for Return to Learn with the necessary supports and expectations. While on leave or upon return from leave, students are required to make up all missed work. For additional information, please see Appendix A.
Concussion Policy
For a student diagnosed with a concussion, the academic and extracurricular impact will be varied and unique to the situation. In our recent experience, however, the typical physicianrecommended concussion protocol is very often one-size-fits-all and misaligned with the realities of the environment of Tower Hill. Concussions are both a medical and educational issue. Assessing and addressing problems with learning and school performance, as well as athletic participation, do not involve any medical decisions, but rather educational ones as well. It is important to note that medical recommendations, while not educationally binding, will certainly be taken into consideration as the school determines the proper plan for each student. Tower Hill will use an individualized approach to determine a student’s Return to Learn and Return to Play. For additional information, please see Appendix A: Concussion Protocol.
Lateness
If you arrive after 8:30 a.m. on Monday through Friday, you will be considered late. Lateness will be excused if you bring a note from a doctor for a pre-determined appointment, inclement weather has prevented your timely arrival, or other unusual conditions prevail. However, if you miss any portion of class due to an unexcused lateness, you may receive no credit for work missed.
What to Do When You’re Late to School
When you arrive late, you must sign the late pad in the Upper School Administrative Assistant’s office as soon as you get to school. You will receive a pass to get into class; please get there as quickly as possible. If you think your unexcused lateness should be excused, see the Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or Head of Upper School
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sometime during the day. If you arrive late due to sickness or fatigue, you will be marked unexcused and must arrive by 9:30 a.m. If you arrive after 9:30, you may be sent home, in which case you will not be permitted to return or participate in activities beyond the academic day. Bottom line: If you are sick, please stay home. If you arrive after the beginning of first period, you must provide a note from a parent or from a doctor to the Upper School Administrative Assistant, explaining the reason for the lateness. The note will not necessarily excuse the lateness, but it will allow you to attend class. If you do not have a note, you still must sign in and receive a yellow entry slip and will need to see the Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or Head of Upper School as soon as possible. You can be late to school up to three times in a quarter without disciplinary consequences. However, your fourth lateness and every one after that in a quarter will result in a demerit, and your parents will be notified of the situation.
Check-out Procedures End of the Day
When you are at School, you are expected to remain in or immediately adjacent to the main School buildings during the 8:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. school day unless you have permission to leave early. You should not be wandering the campus outside or in areas of the building where you do not belong. If you need to go to your car to retrieve something, you need permission from the Upper School office. If you participate in a sport, you must remain until the end of your athletic commitment.
Checking out During the School Day
If you need to leave School for an appointment or other obligation, you must present a note or email, written by a parent or guardian, to the Upper School Office, obtain a yellow dismissal slip from the Administrative Assistant, and sign out. The note should contain specific information about the time and nature of the appointment or obligation, and should indicate whether or not the student will return to finish the school day. The School asks that, whenever possible, appointments be scheduled so as not to conflict with academic classes and athletic contests. When you return from having checked out of School, you must go directly to the Upper School Office and sign in, and the Administrative Assistant will give you a yellow readmission slip to take to your teacher. If the Administrative Assistant is unavailable, sign in and go directly to class.
Going Home Sick
If you are not feeling well in School, simply ask your teacher if you can see the nurse. You should always see the nurse before making arrangements with a parent to go home sick. While no one will force you to stay in School if you are not feeling well, you will not be excused from School for illness without going through the office of the School nurse. If you are leaving, follow the checkout procedures listed above.
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Leaving School Without Permission
Our most important priority is your safety. Therefore, we must know your whereabouts at all times. Leaving school without permission is considered a major offense and may result in severe disciplinary action, including suspension.
Academic Technology
The use of technology at Tower Hill is designed to support the educational program of our students and enhance the learning experience. Students are expected to use technology resources:
1. Appropriately, to support their educational program or appropriate recreational use as determined by faculty and staff. Students should always be able to justify their use of technology by explaining how their actions are appropriate; and
2. Responsibly, respecting the rights of other users, protecting the integrity of the resources, following all licensing agreements, and applying the principles of the Honor Code and proper behavior to all activities.
Access to Tower Hill’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked or limited for violations of this policy. It is the sole and exclusive right of the School to provide or deny such access. Students who act in a manner that is inconsistent with Tower Hill’s standards and expectations may be denied access and/or subject to discipline. Any technology use that becomes problematic because it is inappropriate in its content, disruptive to others, or negatively impacts a student’s academic performance will not be permitted and may be subject to disciplinary action.
Application of the Tower Hill Technology Policy
This policy applies to students (1) in their use of the Tower Hill “Network,” Network-related devices and activity; (2) in their use of their own personal technology devices at School or on the Network, and (3) in their personal technology, social media, and communication systems use. The Tower Hill Network is comprised of technology and communications systems, including but not limited to TowerApps, TowerNet, and TowerMail accounts, computers, tablets, cell phones, cameras, internet or wi-fi access, social media tools and applications, and other related systems and applications. Therefore, this policy applies to all devices, technology, or communications systems provided by Tower Hill (even if used for non-School purposes) as well as all devices, technology, or communications systems which use or affect the School or the School’s Network (whether or not they are School-owned or provided). For the avoidance of doubt, this policy applies to the use of email, internet, texting, SnapChat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Kik, social networks, blogs, games, personal web pages, GoogleDrive, and other webbased sites, social media, and related applications.
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Tower Hill Accounts and Personal Devices
New students will be issued logins and passwords that will allow them access to most Tower Hill computers on campus. Additionally, new students will be given accounts on TowerNet (website) and on TowerApps, which will provide them with a TowerMail account, shared documents accessible both at School and at home, a shared calendar, and all course pages and homework assignments. Personal devices are permitted on campus, but they are the sole responsibility of the owner. Tower Hill does not provide support for personal hardware or software on devices not owned by the School, nor is it responsible for the loss, theft, or damage to any such device. If a student brings in their own device, they will be given access to the school’s wi-fi. At the beginning of the school year, students must digitally register their devices with the School’s technology office to be granted access to the wireless network. Students are expected to engage in responsible use of personal technology and technological devices, whether such use is for School-related purposes or using the School’s Network.
On-Site Technology and Network Guidelines
The Network is maintained for the use of the entire School community. Users enjoy certain rights and privileges and are expected to comply with the School’s guidelines and standards which include: Privacy The School monitors the use of its Network, and students should have no expectation of privacy in their use of technology on campus, in their School activities, when using School technology resources, or when interacting with other members of the School community. Be aware that server storage, TowerApps and TowerNet accounts, and internet use may be monitored at any time. Students should have no expectation of privacy in files, disks, documents, etc., which have been created in, entered in, stored in, downloaded from, or used on the Network. The School may confiscate or examine the contents of any electronic device owned by the School, used on School property, or connected to the Network if the School, in its discretion, believes that the device is being used in violation of School policy or in a manner that may create injury or harm to a member of the School community. Safety Even though the School attempts to limit internet access to only those sites that are reliable and safe, it is impossible to assure that inappropriate information will be blocked, and Tower Hill’s policies should not be construed as a guarantee of any such filtering. Ultimately, students must be responsible for their own use, in accordance with the following guidelines:
• Use personally-identifying information sent over the Network with extreme caution. • Do not use the Tower Hill computer resources for any monetary or financial transaction (shopping, auctions, purchases, banking, etc.). • Do not give out your password or let anyone else use your account.
Security Students must maintain the integrity and security of the School’s technology and Network. It is a violation of School policy to access or try to access the School’s Network or an individual’s
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email or other accounts, or to use another person’s password and username. Additional security guidelines include but are not limited to: • Do not use technology belonging to others without first obtaining permission from the owner of the technology. • Use the School’s technology only when given permission or authorization to do so during the normal course of the School year. • Do not change the settings or add or install software files to School devices, without prior approval from the technical staff. • Do not bypass or attempt to bypass firewalls, filters or other protections. • Do not access, copy, delete or alter information or files that are not your own. • Do not attempt to acquire a password from another student or teacher. • If you access or become aware of inappropriate or objectionable material, immediately close the inappropriate site and alert the attending teacher.
General Responsibilities
Tower Hill is a community in which all members are expected to show mutual respect and consideration for others. Since the Network reaches beyond the School, all members of the community are expected, at all times, to act as ambassadors for the School. You are expected to conduct yourself while using technology as you would in any in-person interaction; such conduct falls under the same rules and standards of conduct as face-to-face interactions. All conduct online that reflects poorly on you or on the School, regardless of when or where it occurs, may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. You must not use the Network, other technology, or the internet in a way that compromises the security of the School’s Network, disrupts the community, or interferes with academic pursuits, as detailed below.
Inappropriate Personal Use
At all times you are expected to behave and act in a manner that is consistent with the School’s values and standards. Below is a list of some but not all school rules governing appropriate personal use of technology:
• Use TowerMail for educational purposes and School coursework. • Use the Network only for authorized and appropriate educational or recreational uses. • Do not visit sites that are pornographic or otherwise inappropriate or sites that hinder overall Network performance (for example, videos or streaming music). • Do not participate in chat rooms or similar activities, unless the chat is part of a class. • Do not download audio or visual files (MP3s, music videos, sports clips, etc.), unless they are a part of an academic project. • Always use a headset when accessing technology that involves sound. • Do not use the Network or any related resources for private financial gain, or commercial, advertising or solicitation purposes. • Do not participate in or play games, unless as part of an academic project. • Do not create, send or forward documents or messages that are inappropriate, malicious, pornographic, harassing, wasteful or annoying (for example, chain letters). • Impersonation and anonymity in the use of the Network, including email, are unacceptable.
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• Do not use technology in any way that is harassing, offensive, intimidating or discriminatory. Cyberbullying, stalking and trolling are strictly forbidden and will not be tolerated.
Social Media Use
Social media is any form of online publication or presence that allows interactive communication, including social networks, blogs, photo-sharing platforms, websites, forums, and Wikis. Examples include, but are not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, and GooglePlus. It is critical for students to remember that, once something appears online, it never really goes away, even if someone takes steps to erase or delete it. Copies of email messages, texts, Instagrams, Snapchats, Facebook posts, pictures and other history of internet activity may be retained and available to others without the creator’s knowledge. Inappropriate language, statements or references to or about another student, or other School community member (teachers, staff, parents, students, and alumni) that may be interpreted as, demeaning, harassing, provocative, or threatening, violate this policy and the School’s disciplinary policies. A posting that is mean, demeaning or insulting to the School or any members of the School community will not be tolerated and may result in discipline including but not limited removal from School. Sometimes, it may be difficult to draw the line between a harmless joke and one that goes too far and is hurtful. If you feel that you are being cyberbullied or hear about/observe someone else being cyberbullied, report the behavior and get help. Bullying of any kind can be reported to a teacher, Class Dean, or other adult employee at the school.
Responsibility to Others
Students may not take pictures, videos or sound recordings of teachers, staff, other students, or anyone on campus without permission. If photographing a school activity for a student publication, you must obtain prior authorization from your publication’s advisor. Regardless of permission, the camera or recording features of any device may not be used in bathrooms or locker rooms under any circumstances. Any use or posting online of personally identifying information about any members of the School community (including photos, videos, names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, etc.) without their permission is prohibited.
Violations of Policies and/or Laws
Use of the Network or Network-related resources for any illegal activity or in violation of Tower Hill policies is prohibited. Such violations include, but are not limited to:
• Accessing, downloading, forwarding or being in possession of offensive or sexually explicit (pornographic) material. This includes “sexting” or any transmission of nude or explicit images or videos of oneself or others. • Violation of copyright laws or intellectual property rights of others. Students are urged to consider the Honor Statement when accessing and citing material content and documents available on the internet. • Unauthorized entry into computers (“hacking”). • Deliberate vandalism, destruction of data or computer files, or use of malware.
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• Gambling. • Using Tower Hill’s name or logo in any way that could be interpreted to suggest the school’s endorsement of your online activity, without express permission to do so.
General Responsibilities
Students are expected to report broken or malfunctioning equipment or problems with the Network. This includes any problem that jeopardizes Network security, problems with its hardware and software, and potential viruses. Students are expected take precautions to prevent the inadvertent spread of computer viruses. Deliberately spreading a virus will be considered vandalism. Students should work only in the account(s) assigned to them and can be held responsible for the activity in those accounts. Because the Network is a resource shared by the entire School, responsible use of bandwidth is essential. It is expected that every user will be cognizant of and careful about the bandwidth of the applications s/he uses and that s/he will take care not to use internet services in any way that compromises other users’ access.
Communications with School Employees
Students must use School-approved methods (primarily, School email) when contacting School employees. Contacts with School employees via text message or their personal cell phones should be limited to special circumstances requiring such use (for example, when communicating about a group meeting point while on a School trip). Students should know that the School employees may not “friend” or participate in the social networking sites of current students of the school (other than their own children) or former students unless the former student is 18 years of age or older and at least 3 years have passed since the conclusion of the former student’s attendance at the School.
Violations of this Policy
The School will respond to violations in accordance with the policies and procedures set forth in the Honor at Tower Hill and Disciplinary System sections of this handbook. As such, any violation of this policy is grounds for the School to:
• Take disciplinary action against the student; • Revoke and/or restrict the student’s use of or access to the School’s Network or School-provided devices; • Take such other action as the School determines appropriate.
Depending on the violation, Tower Hill students also may be subject to criminal charges by local, state or federal authorities. Students should be aware that the use of Tower Hill’s technology resources and their TowerApps and TowerNet accounts may be necessary for their school work; therefore, any revocation or limiting of their privileges also may have academic implications. Students will be financially responsible for damages resulting from improper use of the School Network. When appropriate, law enforcement agencies may be involved.
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Students should report any policy violations to the Director of Academic Technology, the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Students, or the Head of Upper School.
Warranty Disclaimer
Tower Hill makes no warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, for the service it is providing. Tower Hill will not be responsible for any damages users suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mix-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or user errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Network is at the user’s own risk. Tower Hill specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
Making The Grade - Academics and Achievement General Information
Tower Hill’s academic program is one of the finest in the nation. The Tower Hill curriculum provides graduates the ability to thrive in courses at the world’s most selective colleges and universities. Students who show an exceptional interest and ability in one or more academic disciplines are encouraged to take honors and advanced level classes, which allow deeper exploration into the subject matter and enable our alumni to excel in similar coursework in college and graduate or professional school. We balance our core curriculum with a rich extracurricular life in the arts, athletics, and student life. Beyond academics, our students are able to operate in a global world, are good citizens, engage in the democratic process, have a deep appreciation of the arts and literature, have the ability to evaluate quantitative and scientific information and have the ability to remake their profession and career to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. We live by our motto Multa Bene Facta and believe a well-rounded secondary school experience is a necessity to prepare students for the 21st century.
Course Selection
Each year, as you select your courses from the online Curriculum Downloads, you are not alone! Your advisor, teachers, and the College Counseling Office are here to assist you in the selection of your academic plan of study. While your advisor and others are ready to help in making decisions concerning the number and difficulty of courses you might take, ultimately you are responsible for your own program and performance.
Course Recommendations
Department recommendations for the following year are made in late January/early February and shared with students. These recommendations are based on factors that include, but are not limited to: classroom performance, ability to work independently, preparation for and participation in class, and standardized test scores, where appropriate. A recommendation means that a student may take that course, not that he/she must take it. After final assessments, recommendations may be reviewed and amended. Students in ninth grade and their families are notified of these recommendations in late-spring. Upperclassmen are aware of their recommendations prior to course sign up in early March. Our goal is to make sure you are in the appropriate course of study based on your abilities, interests, strengths, and weaknesses.
Enrollment Against Recommendations Enrollment
To request enrollment in a course against recommendation, a student must contact the course
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teacher and the Department Chair to schedule a conversation. After this meeting occurs, if the student and family still wish to change his/her course of study, they must submit a written request to the Department Chair and Head of Upper School, stating his/her reasons for the request. In submitting the request, students and their families must indicate that they understand that: sectioning and staffing decisions will be based on the number of students recommended for the course; students may not be able to change courses; and teachers are not required to provide unlimited extra help to students in courses elected against recommendation. Enrollment is not automatic. Students who end the year on Academic Probation may not request any course against recommendation. The Department Chair and Head of Upper School will make the final decision.
Honors and Advanced Courses
Honors and advanced courses are accelerated courses for qualified students who have shown exceptional ability and who work well independently. Honors and advanced designation indicates one or more of the following about a course as compared to a standard course or offerings at that grade-level: it moves more quickly, covers more topics or delves more deeply into subject matter, and/or requires a greater level of inquiry. Honors and advanced courses require students to produce more creative and extensive individual work. Placement in honors and advanced courses is not appropriate for all students and a manageable course load is important. Students are recommended for honors and advanced courses after meeting specific academic prerequisites.
Self-Advocacy and Student Responsibility
Since an important part of the learning process occurs through interaction in classes and student self-advocacy, it is important for you to be prepared to participate actively and intelligently. Therefore, you are expected to do your work and prepare daily for each class. Should you encounter any difficulty in your coursework, you should immediately seek help from your instructor. It is important for you to do so as early as possible so that you do not fall behind. Our marking system serves to inform you, your advisor, and your parents about your progress and to give colleges some indication of your potential in various areas.
Course Credits, Academic Loads, Requirements Full-year major courses = four credit units each Semester major courses and certain full-year electives = two credit units each Electives = one credit unit
Minimum Credit Units/Courses Required by Year
Grade 9 (22 units) • Biology or Honors Biology • English 9 • Math • Language • Modern World History • Minimum of one credit unit from visual art and design, technology, theatre, music or yearbook • Freshman Seminar
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Grade 10 (21 units) • Chemistry or Honors Chemistry • English 10 • Health and Decision Education • Language • Math • U.S. History or Advanced U.S History Grade 11 (20 units) • One major English course each semester • Math • At least two major courses each semester • Four additional credit units Grade 12 (18 units) • One major English course each semester • At least three other major courses each semester • Additional courses needed to reach 18 units and complete the graduation requirements Advanced Courses Advanced/honors course prerequisites: • Permission is normally required. • Permission depends on background, academic load, and extracurriculars.
Graduation Requirements
English (16 units) • English 9 • English 10 • Plus one major course each semester of the junior and senior years History (12 units) • Modern World History • U.S. History or Advanced U.S. History • Plus four additional credit units Language (8 units above level one) Satisfied by completing either: • The third level of one language or • The second level of two different languages Math (12 units above a first-year algebra course) Science (12 units) • Biology or Honors Biology • Chemistry or Honors Chemistry • Plus four additional credit units (Physics recommended) Electives requirement (4 units minimum)
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• From approved courses in: Visual Art and Design, Theater, Music and/or Yearbook
Experiential Learning • Winterim at the end of first semester • Tower Term at the end of second semester • Community Service: forty hours throughout Upper School
Winterim
Winterim is a dedicated period of time between first and second semesters where each grade level will focus thematically on a topic. Freshmen will continue with an extension of their seminar on Self Care, sophomores will contribute in Sophomore Service, juniors will participate in a College Counseling seminar and seniors will participate in a Life Skills course to help prepare them for their next chapter.
Tower Term
Tower Term is a requirement for every Tower Hill student that must be completed for each year he/she attends the Upper School. It is a limitless space where the Tower Hill community can explore learning together in an interdisciplinary, experiential way. This time allows for creative and dynamic programming that promotes deep engagement, critical thinking, and real life application. This dedicated period allows students and faculty to explore ideas, take risks, and run experiments. These courses will set the stage for collaborative, interdepartmental, studentdriven activities that provide diversified preparation for lifelong learning and personal growth. Winter Tower Term will take place at the end of first semester and Spring Tower Term will take place after Upper School exams.
Drop/Add Procedure
During the first three weeks of each semester, students may make course changes to their schedules. Schedule changes will not be made after the Drop/Add period unless they are initiated by the School for unique reasons. Procedure: • Pick up a Drop/Add Form from the Director of Scheduling • Return the form after appropriate signatures have been obtained • Official registration through the Director of Scheduling and a completed Drop/Add Form is necessary to receive credit for a course • Junior and Senior Drop/Add must be approved by the Director of College Counseling
Report Cards
• Consist of a numerical mark for each course • Students receive report cards at the end of each quarter • A narrative for each course is given on the first and third quarter report cards • A narrative from the student’s advisor is given on the second and fourth quarter report cards
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Grading Scale, Associated Grade Point Averages and Academic Distinction Letter Grade Equivalents and Grade Point Averages for Standard Courses
Tower Hill uses numerical grading on a 100-point scale for report cards and transcript marks. Only major courses are calculated into the GPA. Major courses include two-credit semester courses and four-credit year-long courses, including English, History, Language, Math, Science and Advanced Studio Art.
Numeric Grades Letter Grades 100-90 A 89-80 B 79-70 C 69-60 D Below 59 F
Weighting
While our GPAs are based on a 100-point scale, honors and advanced course receive additional weighting toward the GPA in the following manner:
1. Grades earned in Honors Advanced courses receive additional weighting of 5 points, e.g., grade of 84 would be calculated as an 89 (84 + 5) in the GPA. 2. Advanced English Seminar and Advanced Studio Art courses do not receive additional weighting.
Grading
Grades are calculated in the following way:
First Semester Grade
Second Semester Grade
Final Grade
1st Quarter (40%)
3rd Quarter (40%)
1st Semester (50%)
2nd Quarter (40%)
4th Quarter (40%)
2nd Semester (50%)
First Semester Final Assessment (20%)
Second Semester Final Assessment (20%)
A GPA is calculated by multiplying each final mark by the number of credits for the course. The GPA is the sum of these values divided by the total number of credits taken.
Academic Distinction - “Scholar� Recognition
Scholars are recognized for outstanding achievement at the end of each semester. Scholar with Honors Weighted GPA: 90- 94.9 Scholar with Distinction Weighted GPA: 95 and above
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Global Scholar Certificate Program
The Global Scholar Certificate Program is a way of systematically guiding and recognizing students that go above and beyond in the realm of global studies. By offering our student’s cross-cultural experiences and opportunities, they are given the necessary tools to engage in mutually beneficial interactions with people from around the world. The National Education Association defines global competency as “the acquisition of in-depth knowledge and understanding of international issues, an appreciation of and ability to learn and work with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, proficiency in a foreign language, and skills to function productively in an interdependent world community.” As we move forward in our global efforts, the certificate program promotes global awareness, language proficiency, and exposure to cultural diversity. Through carefully selected academic courses, active club participation, service with global inquiry, travel, and a senior culmination portfolio, students are encouraged to reach beyond their comfort zones and explore different perspectives. Upon completion of the requirements, students will be recognized as official Tower Hill School Global Scholars, receive a certificate at Senior Awards night, and have the distinction marked on their transcripts. A byproduct of this program will include the exploration of varied themes such as business, economic and entrepreneurial literacy, environmental awareness and civic literacy. For more information, please contact the Director of Global Initiatives, Eduardo Silva or visit the Global Initiatives page on the school’s website.
Study Hall and Extra Help
• Grade 9 students and upperclassmen in Academic Difficulty attend study hall every free period in the first semester • Grade 9 students and upperclassmen in Academic Difficulty with satisfactory achievement are no longer required to attend study hall after the first semester • Any student may be placed in study hall if the faculty feels the student’s effort or achievement warrants such placement • Any student having difficulty may be assigned for extra help sessions
Recitation
The goal of Recitation is to provide a time for students to meet with their classmates and individual teachers from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m. daily. This will be a period that focuses on collaboration and consultation, and no new content will be presented.
Open Periods
Students have open periods and can use this time to complete homework, meet with teachers, make up assignments, work in the Library or another quiet space, work collaboratively on projects or labs, use extended time to complete assessments or work on extra-curricular projects.
Office Hours
All faculty are available to meet with students during office hours from 7:45 to 8:25 a.m. each morning.
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Homework
Especially given the additional responsibilities of athletics and other extracurricular activities, it is the philosophy of the Upper School that homework should not be so laborious or time consuming that it creates an overwhelming or unhealthy burden on a student’s education. Rather, it should be a productive tool in advancing learning and should contribute to the academic rigor and fostering of time management skills that are necessary for college and beyond. Assigning homework is in itself an inexact science. The same assignment that takes one student 30 minutes might take another closer to an hour depending on learning style, level of exactitude (perfectionism) or focus (distractions like cell phone or social media). That said, each day students should expect approximately 40 minutes of homework per class day per subject in regular courses, and up to an hour in accelerated or advanced courses. While long-term assignments are common and should be factored into the daily load, students should only be assigned homework on days when class meets. Homework should not be assigned on days when a class drops from the schedule. We acknowledge that in the basic cyclical nature of school, the homework load can vary – some nights are lighter, while other nights (perhaps before tests or larger assignments are due) can be heavier. But if a student is consistently spending beyond 3-3 1/2 hours per day (including homework completed in school), the student should consult his/her advisor to investigate.
Tests and Test Calendar
• Test content and frequency are determined by departments and individual teachers. • There may be no more than three total assessments per day, which includes two announced tests (or major papers or projects) and one announced quiz. • Teachers must place all tests, quizzes and major assignments on the test calendar through the Upper School Office.
Semester Final Assessments
• Students will have semester final assessments in both semester and year-long courses that cover material studied during the previous semester. • All examinations are up to two hours in length • Notification is made in the event of a final assessment failure. • If a student fails a midterm or final assessment, her or she may be asked to do one of the following: • Re-examination after recommended tutoring or summer school allows students the possibility to pass the course. For more details, please see the section Tutoring. • Re-examination scores of 50 or higher are averaged with the original exam in calculating the final average.
Incomplete Work
• All major assignments must be complete to receive credit for the course. • Unfinished or unsatisfactory work will be recorded as incomplete until the work is satisfactorily completed, at which time a mark and full credit will be given.
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• Incomplete work must be finished and turned in three weeks past the end of the quarter in which it was due unless an exception is made by the Head of Upper School.
Course Failures
In June, the Upper School Class Deans review the performance of any student who has failed two or more courses. Recommendations sent to the Upper School Head and the Head of School determine if the student will return to Tower Hill. Seniors • Seniors must pass all courses to graduate. • In the event of course failure, the diploma will be withheld until the failure has been resolved. Underclassmen • Underclassmen who fail a course follow the recommendation of the Department Chair. • Actions may include repeating the course the following year or passing an exam prepared by the department. • Re-examination is in conjunction with attending summer school, individual review or private tutoring to be completed before return in the fall. • In all cases, the Department Chair will determine the process to resolve a failing mark. • The Department Chair will work with the Head of Upper School to determine the procedure to be followed. Academic Probation • A student may be placed on academic probation for poor academic performance or for unsatisfactory effort. • A student will remain on academic probation for one semester. • After that time, a review by the advisor, teachers, Class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, the Head of Upper School, and/or Head of School will determine whether the student should continue at Tower Hill. • In some cases, a student on academic probation will be restricted from participating in non-academic activities to ensure dedication of time and energy to improving academic status. Blackouts • No homework, papers, projects or assessments of any kind can be given the day following a Blackout. • Blackouts occur at the discretion of the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life and Head of Upper School. • A forum that is scheduled in the evening automatically results in a Blackout for students. • Blackouts are indicated on the school calendar.
Student Leadership and Involvement
Tower Hill believes that every student is capable of developing leadership skills and offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved and lead. Leadership skills include communication, cooperation, team-building, leading by example, problem solving, and implementation. Positions available include student government offices, board chairs, board
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representatives, club leaders, athletic captains, and peer tutors.
Student Government Association
The Student Government Association (SGA) upholds Tower Hill’s core values of honesty, responsibility and respect throughout Student Life. SGA is made up of class officers, board chairs, four Class Deans, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, and Head of Upper School. SGA serves as a voice for the student body, listens to problems and concerns, helps facilitate change, strives to improve community pride, upholds the honor code, and fosters leadership and citizenship among all students in the Upper School community. Any student who holds a leadership position on SGA must commit to attend all meetings and SGA events throughout the school year. Student Senate This group is made up of the following elected officers: Class Officers: Student Government Association: President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer Senior Reps: President, Vice-President, Secretary Junior Reps: President, Vice-President, Secretary Sophomore Reps: President, Vice-President, Secretary Freshman Reps: President, Vice-President, Secretary (will be elected at the beginning of second quarter)
Elections
SGA Officers are nominated by the junior class, must have a faculty sponsor, and then have the option of running for SGA President. This process entails making a speech to the Upper School student body, running a campaign, and participating in a question and answer session. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors vote for SGA President. Following the election of the SGA President, individual classes will hold elections for class officers during their class meetings.
Boards
SGA promotes collaboration and student empowerment through its Board system. Each Board represents the pillars of our program: Arts, Athletics, Activities, Communications, Environmental Stewardship, Global Initiatives, Green Keys, Honor, Discipline, Service, Social and Social Justice. These Boards are essential to the student leadership experience and involvement within School life. They represent the core pillars of our Upper School program and work collaboratively to promote their mission and greater awareness of their area within the community. The student chair(s) of each Board attend SGA meetings and should report back to their Board members when they meet. Boards are asked to present/host at least one event during the year and/or make a presentation to the Upper School about what they do. Each Board has a faculty advisor who helps facilitate bi-weekly meetings of the Board, review the Board’s purpose, and plan
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events/activities for the year. Boards should meet at a mutually convenient time with everyone on the Board. Students should be actively involved in these events from start to finish!
Board Structure
Leadership of Boards is open to junior and seniors only. There will be two representatives from 10th through 12th grades on each Board. Ninth grade students can run for Board membership at the beginning of second quarter. Students should hand in self-nominations for leadership positions and Board membership. Student Senate members will elect the chairs and members for each Board. No student may hold more than two leadership positions at one time (this does not include sports captains). The Honor and Disciplinary Boards will have a slightly different structure. Each Board will have a faculty advisor.
Board Chairs
Board Chairs are responsible for calling and running bi-weekly meetings, providing agenda, posting minutes, listening, and helping to implement initiatives. They also must attend biweekly SGA meetings, where they will present a report from their Board. Board chairs also must be certain to lead their particular Boards in accordance with the mission of that Board. Each Board is required to hold an orientation session for its members where guidelines are established, run a community awareness assembly for the Upper School, and promote the Board’s mission.
Leadership Conduct
All students at Tower Hill are expected to abide by the core values of honor, responsibility, and respect. Student leaders are expected to lead by example and should: • Serve as role models in the classroom, on the athletic field, in a performance, and anywhere else they represent Tower Hill, both on and off campus. • Abide by the Honor Code at all times. • Be active in moving SGA forward. • Act as a voice of the people, prioritizing the needs of the community.
Removal From Office
Failure to meet the obligations of office, such as regular attendance at meetings, or helping to plan/run events, may lead to removal from the Student Government. A student may be asked to step down from an elected position if he or she is not fulfilling responsibilities or if he/she engages in behavior that reflects poorly on him/herself, the class, or the School. Likewise, if a leader violates a major School rule, he/she may be required to resign from his/her post.
Clubs
Clubs are a great way for you to participate in extracurricular activities both in and out of School. They can help you to develop your interests and to gain a sense of responsibility and service to the School and the larger community. It is recommended that students participate in at least one club, but many find they enjoy being involved in multiple clubs. The clubs offered vary each year depending on the interest of the students. With the approval of the School, any student may start a new club at the beginning of the school year by signing up with the Activities Chair and finding a faculty sponsor. Club leaders must check in with their Activities Chair monthly to share with them what they are doing and who is participating in the club.
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The following is a list of some recent student clubs:
• Baking Club • Blue-Gold Club • Community Service Club • Culture Club • Diversity Club • Forum Council • Green Keys • Jefferson Awards for Public Service • Lit Page • Mock Trial • Model UN • Physics Club • Pride Club • The Rubble • Young Democrats • Young Republicans • The Yearbook
Pay It Forward - Service Learning
The Service-Learning Program at Tower Hill provides students with an opportunity to connect the School’s motto, philosophy and mission by engagement within their community. Through intentionality and design, service-learning at Tower Hill provides meaningful and relevant opportunities for students, enhances academic learning that links to the curriculum, promotes social awareness and responsibility, introduces a diversity of viewpoints, and encourages reflection. By participating in service-learning, students will learn through doing, be active citizens, and develop respect for all people. The goal of Tower Hill’s service expectation is to encourage students to provide a meaningful contribution to the community while also learning about themselves and the world around them. Through the service experience, students will encounter people, places, and situations that challenge ways of thinking, preconceptions, and raise questions. As a result, service at Tower Hill will engage the student in a process of self-discovery, social responsibility, and growth with the help of reflective activities and guided learning opportunities. Service learning provides another avenue for personal, professional and academic growth that fosters student development, and skills that prepare students to enter college and the world beyond. Students may perform their service after school, during an athletic off season, or on weekends, school breaks, and summer vacations. Service hours should be completed by the start of the student’s senior year classes. Students should choose from one of the numerous registered non-profits in the greater Wilmington area. Students should select an organization that aligns with their interests, hobbies, and/ or potential career path. The Director of Service-Learning is available to provide suggestions and guidance. Qualifying service projects and organizations should fit into one of three categories: direct, indirect or advocacy. If the agency or organization you would like to work with is not a nonprofit group, it must be pre-approved by the Director of Service-Learning.
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Types of Service
• Direct service is that which takes place in a non-profit agency and places the volunteer in communion with the clients. Examples of these include: teaching children in an after-school program, reading to the elderly. • Indirect service provides structural and organizational assistance to an agency but generally does not involved interaction with clients. Examples of indirect service include: cleaning up the community, preparing food, building playgrounds, raising money for a worthwhile cause. • Advocacy includes creating social change through government or grassroots action. Students may work to change laws and regulations or inform politicians and community members about pertinent issues. Examples include: creating a letter writing campaign to one’s state or federal representatives to petition action.
Whether direct, indirect or advocacy, to qualify, service should:
• Contribute to the completion of tasks that will benefit the community. • Be done voluntarily, with no monetary compensation for the student. • Not be for a political party. • Provide students with a learning experience. • Not cause a reduction in the number of employees in the participating organization. • Be situationally appropriate for the student’s age, background, and level of maturity. • Be safely conducted by the student.
Neighborliness and family-related help are not considered valid hours for the program. Valid service must be performed through an organization or agency for which contact information has been provided. It cannot be done through or for a personal contact, such as babysitting for a neighbor, helping grandparents move, or helping a relative/friend coach a team. These activities reflect great civic mindedness, but are not accepted as valid service for our purposes. For more information, please visit the Service Learning Page on TowerNet.
Senior Speeches
Tower Hill believes that developing communication skills is of utmost importance for our graduates. Throughout our program, students are given ample occasions to build these skills, both in their writing and through various public speaking opportunities. As the leaders in our division, we ask each member of the senior class to prepare a Senior Speech on a meaningful topic of their choice, which they will present to the entire Upper School. Topics must be ageappropriate, constructive, and approved by the Dean of Student Life and/or the Head of Upper School at least two weeks prior to the presentation. This is not a place where students should air grievances, but rather share experiences, stories, or viewpoints. We ask seniors to work closely with an advisor of their choice, not only in regard their preparation but also their presentation. Presentations should be about five minutes in length.
Break a Leg - Theater Productions
Two major theater productions are held each year, and often there are additional opportunities.
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Tryouts for each production are held the semester prior. Each production offers you opportunities to participate on the stage or behind the scenes in stage management. A student who is heavily involved in a theater production may apply for an exemption from participating in athletics during one season per year by using the Outside Athletic Activity Request Form.
Forum
The Forum Speaker Series is a unique opportunity for you to interact with personalities of national prominence. As we celebrate our Centennial, we have chosen two speakers, one in the fall and one in the spring. These events occur in the evening, and semi-formal attire is required. Visit the Forum web page for more detail on this unique experience for Tower Hill students.
Student Support
Your Support Team - Resources
Head of Upper School - Megan Cover Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life - Art Hall Class Deans Class of 2020 - Liz Brown Class of 2021 - Nicole Keith Class of 2022 - Dan Pratt Class of 2023 - Amanda Jennings College Counselors - David Toomer, Jennifer Meeker and Casey Yuros Dean of Teaching and Learning - Andrea Glowatz Learning Specialist - Jessica Douglas Upper School Psychologist - Lauren Lineback School Nurse - Alexis Herbein Communication is key in responding to questions or concerns, or in seeking help. We have a number of different people who can help with many things at Tower Hill. Whether it is academic, social or behavioral, we have various support systems and resources in place.
Meeting with Teachers
Meeting with teachers outside of class time is commonplace at Tower Hill. These meetings can occur during common open periods and before or after school. Students may make these appointments voluntarily or may be scheduled for extra help by the teacher, advisor or Class Dean. Regardless of the reason, you should not be shy about seeing your teacher outside of class.
Advisory
The advisory program is designed to support students personally and academically throughout their Upper School experience. The program fosters growth of core values, such as honesty, responsibility, and respect for oneself and the community through building open and honest relationships between student and teacher. It serves as a safe place for students to seek assistance or advice in all facets of their School life.
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Student/Advisor Relationship
Beginning in 10th grade, you will have a chance to select your advisor and may remain with this person for your entire career in Upper School. Your advisor is a teacher with whom you have a close trusting relationship–your formal or informal advisor. This person is the equivalent to a faculty coach, who is here to help you navigate your daily life at Tower Hill. He/She can advise you academically and personally. Your advisor will also have other advisees, who make up your advisory. Advisories are mixed-grade level, so you may be in an advisory group with freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Advisories meet once every several days in groups (usually of 8 to 9 students to 1 faculty member), but you should consult your advisor whenever you have a question or encounter a rough spot in the road. Advisory focuses on the academic and character development of the individual, as well as the important role one assumes as part of a group. The advisory program offers meaningful opportunities for active citizenship, leadership and cooperative group experiences, serving as a forum for the sharing of ideas relevant to School life, and team building. What to do if you need support in ‌
Academics
The first step is to talk to your teacher if you have an issue. If you feel you are not making progress, go to your advisor. Your advisor helps to advocate for you as well as helping you to advocate for yourself. The two of you can make a plan regarding how to proceed. If your issue is academic in nature, you and your advisor can talk to your teacher and/or the Department Chair. teacher
student
advisor
department chair
dean of students
head of upper school
Learning
Sometimes academic problems are related to a certain class, but sometimes they are bigger. If you notice persistent challenges with your studies (for example, homework takes too long, you don’t finish tests in time, etc.), you should talk to your advisor, class Dean, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life, and/or the Learning Specialist. If you have a learning difference that is documented in a formal educational evaluation, be sure to contact your advisor and the Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life so that we can determine whether you are eligible for accommodations. student
advisor
class dean
The Teaching and Learning Center (TLC)
dean of students/ learning specialist
Growth is the central tenet of the mission of the Teaching and Learning Center at Tower Hill. Established in 2016, the Center is a resource for students and teachers who wish to maximize learning processes, address specific academic challenges, engage in best practices, seek support for documented learning differences, or challenge themselves to achieve new levels of excellence. The Center is a process-oriented nucleus of the School that fosters dialogue, innovation, flexibility, and excellence in individualized teaching and learning in the 21st century. Existing to uphold the mission and philosophy of the School in all circumstances, the Center is in a position to recommend reasonable accommodations for students with documented needs, but cannot support requests to modify curricula. Our Learning Specialists endeavor to equip
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students and teachers with tools, strategies, and opportunities to learn about learning so that they may build repertoires, excel, and nurture the mindsets needed for continuing education. Advisors will serve as the preliminary contact in the student referral process to the TLC. The TLC is located in the Upper School Library. advisor
student
TLC (dean of teaching and learning)
Extended Time
If you qualify for extra time on your tests, you must have current official documentation (within 4 years) on file with the School to be added to the “Extended Time List.” You also should make arrangements with each of your teachers as to how this will be utilized from class to class or teacher to teacher. Extended time can be provided to students during a free period, at the beginning of the day from 7:45 to 8:20 a.m. or at the end of the day from 2:45 to 3:15 p.m. You may be late to athletics if you are taking extended time on a test or quiz.
Extended Time for Exams
Students may opt to take their final exams in a designated extended time room. If they decide to take their exams in the extended time room, they must notify both their teacher and the Dean of Teaching and Learning of the extended time room in advance of the exam.
Extended Time for Standardized Testing
Students who qualify for extended time at Tower Hill need to follow an external approval process for standardized testing through the College Board. In order to qualify for extended time on standardized tests (SAT/ACT), students must have a current educational evaluation, documented in-school use of extended time for at least four months, and the necessary paperwork completed by families. Our standardized testing coordinator (Dean of Teaching and Learning) will send all paperwork to the College Board and wait for approval. Once approval is received or denied, our Dean of Teaching and Learning will be in contact with families. Please contact Andrea Glowatz, Dean of Teaching and Learning (aglowatz@towerhill.org) if you have any questions or would like to start this formal approval process.
Behavior
If you ever get into trouble, we encourage you to think seriously about the Honor Pledge you sign at the beginning of each school year. Honesty is always the best policy at Tower Hill. Please be honest with your teachers and with your advisor. They only want to help you find a solution to your problem and can only help you if you are upfront with them. In cases of academic honesty violations, follow this process: dean of head of class head of school advisor student teacher students upper school dean (depending on infraction)
Emotional Well-being
There is never a problem too big or without an apparent solution that we can’t help you work through. If you are experiencing personal problems, such as conflict with a friend, social issues, depression, addiction, or decision making, your advisor can be your first point of contact. He/She can direct you to our School counselors. You can meet with them individually or with your advisor. student
advisor
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school couselor
Physical Well-being
Whenever you are not feeling quite right, the Nurse is always available in the Health Center. You can visit her at any time within the school day and she will help you. If you are in class or will miss a class due to a visit to the nurse, make sure to notify your teacher. You should always see the nurse before making arrangements with a parent to go home sick. student
teacher/ advisor
nurse
College Counseling
Your advisor will help you choose an academic plan for your four years at Tower Hill. As a freshman, you will be given a username and password for Naviance, which is a web-based service that organizes your records and resume from the first day of 9th grade. Throughout your freshman and sophomore years, there will be some introductory programs from the College Counseling office for you and your parents, but you will not formally begin this process until winter of your junior year. Once you are a second-semester junior, you will begin meeting with the Director of College Counseling, who will formally guide you through this process. Please visit the College Counseling Office webpage to learn more about the college guidance process. student
director of college counseling
advisor
Reporting to Colleges/Universities
Students need to be aware that Tower Hill reports disciplinary infractions, significant changes in a student’s academic status or qualifications, and other events to colleges/universities, as Tower Hill deems appropriate. Tower Hill reserves the right to report to colleges/universities during the admissions or application process; once applications or recommendations have been submitted but before the college/university’s decisions are made; once the college/ university’s decisions are final but before a student accepts; and after a student has accepted the college/university’s offer. In addition, in the case of a transfer, Tower Hill may report disciplinary infractions, significant changes in a student’s academic status or qualifications, or other events, as deemed appropriate, to other secondary schools.
Tutoring
Upper School’s General Philosophy on Outside Tutoring
When students encounter difficulties, the first place to seek help should always be the teacher. However, we understand that there are occasions when assistance may be useful beyond what the teacher can provide. If an outside tutor is engaged without the formal recommendation of the teacher or other member of the school community, as both a matter of courtesy and to enhance communication, we highly recommend that the student notify the teacher or advisor. Most importantly, in all cases in which an outside tutor is employed, a tutor should be considered a supplement to the learning the teacher provides, not a replacement. We feel that it is often very helpful for teachers and outside tutors to collaborate, especially
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when the teacher has recommended tutoring or the student is facing great difficulty in the course. That said, we also must ensure that the interaction is appropriate. Tower Hill recognizes that there may indeed be a difference between needing a tutor (help passing a course; at the request of the teacher) and wanting a tutor (help turning a B into an A). Therefore, the degree of time engagement with a tutor on the part of the teacher can vary. Communication between teacher and outside tutor should cover general skills, concepts and material, but should never create an unfair advantage for students with tutors. Most tutoring takes place outside of School time, but there are instances when students work with tutors on campus during the school day. In these cases, tutors may use School facilities only with the support of the teacher and the approval of the Head of Upper School. Our goal is always to help students perform successfully in the classroom, and our School culture is built upon the idea that teachers are available to assist their students during and outside of class time. In cases when outside help is introduced, it is our desire to be certain that communication and collaboration is reasonable, fair and effectively supports both the student’s learning and the institutional goals of the School.
Peer Tutors
In conjunction with Department Chairs and Class Deans, the Dean of Teaching and Learning runs a peer tutoring program that gives all students who are struggling in an academic class the opportunity to work with another student. The tutors are 11th or 12th grade students who show strong interest and strength in a field or subject. Tutors are selected by Department Chairs and by their strengths in the subject compared to the challenges of the student, the personalities of both the peer tutor and student (whether they clash or enhance each other), and the comfort of the student with a similar or opposite-gendered tutor. Having a peer tutor who is also a student creates an sense of comfort for many students who may have trouble with asking a teacher or adult frequently for extra help.
Tutoring after Failure of Final Exam or Course
A student who needs to retake a final exam due to receiving a mark lower than 50 will normally be expected to complete an appropriate amount of review as determined by the department, usually three to five hours. The teacher or another member of the department will work with the student to prepare for the reexamination. There is no cost for tutoring associated with basic exam retake prep. When the teacher, Department Chair, or Head of Upper School determines a student will need a significant amount of work (usually eight or more hours) to remedy a course failure or poor final exam performance, the family will be asked to employ the services of an outside tutor.
For Parents
As parents, you obviously play a crucial role in your child’s school journey. An ideal support team is made up of student, parent and School, all working together. You should first direct your child to ask questions at School, which will help to empower him/her. We encourage students to take ownership of their learning, which includes decision making, conflict resolution and self-advocacy, but parental guidance, more so than control, is very important. In turn, students should communicate with their parents regularly about their experiences at School.
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Since it is not uncommon for you to have questions or concerns about your child’s academic performance, we certainly want to promote productive communication with parents as well as students. For parents who may have concerns about their child’s performance, or perhaps about a policy, practice or decision that is unclear to them in a particular class, the best place to start is with the teacher. If additional assistance is necessary, you should contact your child’s advisor. If the issue persists, or requires additional guidance or perspective, you might also access the Class Dean, Department Chair, Assistant Head of School and Dean of Student Life or Head of Upper School. All situations are unique, but the general sequence for seeking help or information in academic matters is: For more information on healthy parent/school relationships, read the National Association of Independent School’s Principles of Good Practice: Parents Working with Schools/Schools Working with Parents. student/ parent
teacher
advisor
class dean
department chair
dean of students
head of upper school
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Your child’s advisor will contact you in the late fall to schedule a parent-teacher conference to discuss your child’s performance. While this is the only formally scheduled conference, you should feel comfortable speaking with your child’s advisor at any time of the year. We find it is helpful, whenever possible, that the student is included in these conversations, if not leading them.
Appendix A: CONCUSSION PROTOCOL
Tower Hill’s concussion protocol includes steps to help students safely return to school and athletics. Extended time away from full-time school work while battling concussion symptoms can make it very challenging, not only to get caught up but also to maintain one’s preconcussion academic standing. From the school’s perspective, we want to be reasonable and compassionate with concussed students, while remaining realistic about how much work can be modified or excused. A student’s health is the top priority, and we will do all we can to facilitate “Return to Learn.” However, work will need to be made up and it is possible that grades will be impacted due to missed classroom time. This is a natural and unfortunate consequence of a mild brain injury. This reality should not persuade students to return to School before they are healed, but should be considered in managing expectations for recovery.
“Return to Learn”
A concussion management team comprised of the school nurse, the athletic trainer, the Class Dean, and/or the student’s advisor (as needed) will oversee the student’s recovery as it pertains to academics. For students who have been concussed for more than one week, the Class Dean will meet with the student’s advisor and teachers to determine: what the student must make up; if missed work can be supported by extra help or whether outside tutoring for a short time is advisable; a reasonable timeline for completing make-up work, based on the length of time student has been unable to do academic work; a calendar outlining the plan for making up missed assessments, extra help appointments (if needed), and periodic follow-up assessments to determine the student’s progress.
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Return to Learn Protocol
Tower Hill generally will implement the following protocol, borrowed from “An Educator’s Guide to Concussions in the Classroom,” from the Nationwide Children’s Hospital guidelines. Because symptom severity and length of recovery vary from student to student, some students may not participate in every one of the following phases. Phase 1: No school • Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student may have a high level of symptoms that prevent him or her from being able to benefit from being in school. Physical symptoms tend to be the most prominent and interfere with even basic tasks. • Treatment: The student should rest the brain and body as much as possible. • Interventions: - No school - No activities that exacerbate symptoms, such as television, video games, computer use, texting or loud music - Avoiding other “triggers” that worsen symptoms - No physical activity, which includes anything that increases the heart rate, such as (but not limited to): weightlifting, sport practices and games, gym class, running, stationary biking, push-ups, sit-ups, etc. Phase 2: Half-day attendance with accommodations • Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student’s symptoms have decreased to manageable levels. Symptoms may be exacerbated by certain mental activities that are complex, difficult and/or have a long duration. • Treatment: Balance rest with gradual re-introduction to School. Avoid tasks that produce, worsen, or increase symptoms. Avoid symptom triggers. • Interventions: - Part-day School attendance, with a focus on the core subjects; prioritize what classes should be attended and how often - Symptoms reported by student addressed with specific accommodations - Eliminate items not essential to learning priority material, as determined by individual teachers - Emphasis in this phase on in-School learning; rest is necessary once out of school; homework reduced or eliminated - No physical activity Phase 3: Full-day attendance with accommodations • Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student’s symptoms have decreased in both number and severity. Symptoms may still be exacerbated by certain activities, but short time spans with known symptom triggers do not have drastic effects on symptom levels. • Treatment: As the student improves, gradually increase demands on the brain by increasing the amount of work, length of time spent on the work, and the type or difficulty of work. Gradually re-introduce known symptom triggers for short time periods. • Interventions: - Continue to prioritize assignments, tests and projects; limit student to one test per day - Continue to prioritize in-class learning material; minimize workload and promote best effort on important tasks - Gradually increase amount of homework
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- Reported symptoms addressed by specific accommodations; accommodations reduced or eliminated as symptoms wane and resolve - No physical activity
Phase 4: Full-day attendance without accommodations • Symptom Severity: In this phase, the student may not have any symptoms or may have mild symptoms that are often intermittent. • Treatment: Accommodations are removed when student can function fully without them. • Interventions: - Construct a plan to finish completing missed academic work and keep stress levels low. - No physical activity until released by a healthcare professional (such as physician or athletic trainer). Phase 5: Full school and extracurricular involvement • Symptom Severity: No symptoms are present. • Treatment: No accommodations are needed. • Interventions: Before returning to sports, the student must also complete the DIAA mandated Gradual Return to Play Plan. If students miss any classes due to healing from a concussion, they may not be present at or take part in School-sponsored activities on those days (i.e. field trips, theater productions, athletic practices or contests, dances, etc.). Implementation of academic accommodations will be temporary and directly correlated to symptom duration. If the student’s symptoms persist after two months and/or there is a request to maintain accommodations, the concussion management team will request that the family arrange for more extensive testing (e.g., neuro-/psycho-educational evaluation) to determine the extent of impairment. The testing results will allow us to determine the appropriateness of accommodations and need for additional support at School. Accommodations can be continued temporarily while the family pursues a more comprehensive evaluation. Note: Accommodations given by the School are separate from those offered outside of School (e.g., by the College Board and ACT), which require a separate application process. All necessary work, as determined by the School, must be completed before the start of the following school year for a student to matriculate to the next grade.
“Return to Play”
Tower Hill follows the DIAA Concussion Protocol regarding a student’s return to athletic participation after sustaining a concussion. It is important to note that, regardless of physician clearance, students will not be permitted to return to full participation until they have completed the first five stages of the DIAA Gradual Return to Play Plan, listed below. In addition, the athletic trainers incorporate Impact Testing and Balance Testing as tools to measure progress in an athlete’s healing. If a student reports no symptoms, yet cannot pass an Impact Test, we do not allow the student to start the stages of the DIAA Gradual Return to Play Protocol, which include: Stage 1: No physical activity. If the athlete has no signs or symptoms consistent with a concussion they may progress, after 24 hours, to Stage 2, etc.
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Stage 2: Low levels of physical activity; symptoms do not come back during or after the activity. This includes walking, light jogging, light stationary bike, light weight lifting (low weight, higher reps, no bench, no squat). Stage 3: Moderate levels of physical activity with body/head movement. Includes moderate jogging, brief running, moderate-intensity stationary biking, moderate-intensity weightlifting (reduce time and/or weight from typical routine). Stage 4: Heavy non-contact physical activity. This includes sprinting/running, high intensity stationary bike, regular weightlifting routine, non-contact sport specific drills (3 planes of movement). Stage 5: *** Must have physician clearance before beginning this stage*** Full contact in controlled practice. Stage 6: Full contact in game play. If signs or symptoms return after Stage 5, must see physician again for Stage 6 clearance. Important note: Return to the academic program takes precedence over the student’s return to sports. Students may not return to full athletic participation unless they are meeting their full academic obligations without concussion-related accommodations or modifications.
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