Student Handbook 2012-13

T h e W i l l i s t o n n orthampton s c h o o l

Student Handbook

Academi c Year 2 012-1 3 2012-13 Student Handbook窶ア

Contacts Head of School

Robert W. Hill III �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3222 | rhill@williston.com Associate Head of School

Jeffrey Ketcham ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3232 | jketcham@williston.com Assistant Head of School

Ann Pickrell ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3242 | apickrell@williston.com Assistant Head of School for Special Projects

Glenn Swanson ’64 ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3273 | gswanson@williston.com Academic Affairs

Greg Tuleja, Academic Dean ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3227 | gtuleja@williston.com

Kimberly Evelti, Assistant Academic Dean for Program Development ���������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3071 | kevelti@williston.com Admission and Financial Aid

Chris Dietrich, Director ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3205 | cdiettrich@williston.com Athletics

Mark Conroy, Director ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3253 | mconroy@williston.com Advancement

Eric Yates, Chief Advancement Officer ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3306 | eyates@williston.com Business Office

Charles McCullagh, Chief Financial Officer ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3261 | cmccullagh@williston.com

Matt Piechota, Controller ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3236 | mpiechota@williston.com College Counseling

Tim Cheney, Director ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3221 | tcheney@williston.com Communications

Traci Wolfe, Director ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3311 | twolfe@williston.com Dean of Faculty

Peter Valine ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3379 | pvaline@williston.com Dean of Students

Kathryn Noble, Dean �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3249 | knoble@williston.com

David Koritkoski, Assistant Dean �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3245 | dkoritkoski@williston.com

Matthew Spearing, Director of Student Activities �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3340 | mspearing@williston.com Director of Diversity and International Student Coordinator

Bridget Choo, Director ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3277 | bchoo@williston.com Health Services �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3234 | lnicol@williston.com

Laurie Nicol, Interim Director ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3277 | bchoo@williston.com The Robert Parker Clapp Library

Mary Paige, Library Director �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3348 | bchoo@williston.com Middle School

Jen Fulcher, Head �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3229 | jfulcher@williston.com

Andrew Syfu, Coordinator of Student Affairs ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3250 | asyfu@williston.com Ninth Grade Program

Allison Marsland, Coordinator ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3282 | amarsland@williston.com

Matt Sawyer, Coordinator ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 529-3775 | msawyer@williston.com Parent Relations

Rachel Goldberg, Director ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 529-3308 | rgoldberg@williston.com Technology

Andrew Shelffo, Chief Information Officer ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������529-3237 | ashelffo@williston.com

community standards Welcome to a new school year at The Williston Northampton School! The Student Handbook is a guide to our community’s core values and the corresponding expectations that we place not only on our students, but on all of our community members.

While it bears the title of Student Handbook it is a resource for parents, students, and the adult members of our community. It does contain our school rules and discipline procedures; however, it also conveys the values and beliefs that are the cornerstones of all of our interactions as members of the Williston community.

You will find that the values of respect, responsibility, trust, integrity, and honesty are embodied in the expectations of conduct that we have at Williston.

Through each student’s personal initiatives and challenges, we become a thriving community of learners and friends who grow from sharing each other’s talents and strengths. For students, we encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities for personal growth and learning that will be afforded you in the upcoming months. The possibilities are endless. Expand your circle of experiences, both in and out of the classroom, and develop new and meaningful relationships with both students and adults, alike.

sensitivity, and compassion. Because all members of the community have a right to live, learn, and work in an environment free from hostility and violence, we will not tolerate any form of harassment of any individual or group based upon race, ethnic origin, religious beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, or any other attribute.

We believe further that the quality of the life and work we share together is enriched by generosity of spirit, civility, a positive attitude, and the kind of consideration for others that goes well beyond respect alone.

Responsibility and Trust All communities depend upon trust to function well.

We must be able to rely upon each other to keep our promises and to accept responsibility for our mistakes when we fall short. When a student enrolls at Williston, we expect that both the student and his or her parents will adhere to the values and the more specific rules of the school as they are outlined in this handbook.

Pursue those areas where you will thrive and have success; explore the unknown and try new activities that may challenge you. All of us at Williston look forward to your arrival on campus and to being available to assist you in the coming year.

While there are consequences for failing to observe the rules of the school, as an educational institution, we understand that young people make mistakes and that important learning can come from dealing responsibly and thoughtfully with one’s missteps.

It is only under the most extreme conditions that we require a student to leave the school on a first offense.

We must, however, be able to trust the integrity and the word of each community member.

Respect for Self and Others

Honesty and Integrity

Two values essential to life within the school community, as well as to the democratic society of which we are a part, are respect and responsibility.

Each member of the community is expected to prize the integrity of his or her own word. Giving false or deceptive information in any circumstances casts serious doubt on that integrity and is considered an especially grave affront to the community. Dishonesty within the discipline process, therefore, carries a heavy penalty.

Ultimately, any student whose honesty and integrity cannot be trusted cannot expect to remain a member of the community.

Respect means having regard for and paying attention to the welfare and rights of others in addition to protecting one’s own well-being. We strive to maintain a community free from all forms of intimidation and harassment and expect every individual to be treated with respect,

2012-13 Student Handbook 1

Student Handbook Table of Contents 2012-13 Academics................................................................ 3

Rules at Williston......................................... 33

1. Graduation Requirements..................................................4

1. Major School Rules........................................................... 33

2. Academic Standing.............................................................4

2. Minor School Rules.......................................................... 37

3. Course Load and Homework............................................. 5

3. Academic Honesty............................................................38

4. Special Studies................................................................... 6

4. Dress Code........................................................................39

5. Academic Support...............................................................7

5. Units..................................................................................39

6. Academic Advising.............................................................7

6. Disciplinary Terms and Process......................................42

Residential Life................................................ 9

For the Parents................................................47

1. Dormitory Living...............................................................10

1. Parents’ Association......................................................... 48

2. What to Bring....................................................................10

2. School Communications................................................. 48

3. Dorm Visitation..................................................................11

3. Family Weekends and Visits............................................ 48

4. Permissions to Enter and Leave Campus....................... 12

4. Travel Arrangements....................................................... 49 5. Supervised Home Visits.................................................. 49

Community Life.............................................15 1. Day Students.....................................................................16

Middle School...................................................50

2. International Students.....................................................16

1. Grade Reporting................................................................ 52

3. Diversity at Williston........................................................16

2. Advising............................................................................. 52

4. Religious Services, Holidays and Vacations................... 17

3. Disciplinary Procedures and Actions.............................. 52

5. Student Activities and Organizations.............................. 17

4. Facilities and Services....................................................... 53

6. Student Leadership.......................................................... 18

5. Dress Code........................................................................ 55 6. Communications..............................................................56

Facilites and Services.............................. 21 1. Health Services and Counseling......................................22

Schedules and Hours............................. 57

2. Technology at Williston.................................................... 25

1. Upper School Schedules...................................................58

3. The Robert Parker Clapp Library.................................... 26

2. Travel Dates...................................................................... 60

4. Student Services...............................................................27

3. Test Dates...........................................................................61

5. Dining Hall........................................................................27

4. Leave From Campus.........................................................61

6. Security.............................................................................28

5. Middle School Schedules, Hours and Contacts............. 62 6. Afternoon Program Options........................................... 64

Student Programs...................................... 29 1. Afternoon Program...........................................................30 2. Fine Arts Intensives..........................................................30 3. Athletics Program.............................................................30 4. Work Program.................................................................. 32

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Academics

1. Graduation Requirements................................................................................... pg. 4 2. Academic Standing.............................................................................................. pg. 4 3. Course Load and Homework...............................................................................pg. 5 4. Special Studies.....................................................................................................pg. 6 5. Academic Support............................................................................................... pg. 7 6. Academic Advising.............................................................................................. pg. 7

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Academic Day The first academic period begins at 8:30 a.m.; class times vary throughout the day. On Wednesdays and class Saturdays (Upper School only), classes are held in the morning and students participate in athletic contests in the afternoon. (See class schedules on pages 58 – 59, or in WillyNet.)

credits. Students are urged to select from offerings both in the studio/performance courses and the humanities.

Seniors, including post-graduates, who are in jeopardy of failing a year-long course, or who have failed a first trimester course, may be required to withdraw from the school at the end of the fall trimester.

Graduation Requirements In order to receive a Williston diploma, a student must complete 57 academic credits in courses offered at the 9th through 12th grade level. A full year course receives three credits and a trimester course one credit. The 57 credits must include: English.................................................................... 12 credits Each student must be enrolled in an English course during every trimester of attendance. ELL courses are considered to be part of the English department.

Mathematics............................................................ 9 credits This must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II; most students go beyond these requirements.

Science..................................................................... 6 credits Chemistry or Biology is required; one full-year course must be taken at the 11th or 12th grade level; most students go beyond these requirements.

Language................................................ 6 sequential credits Each student must complete at least six credits in the same language during grades 9–12; most students take at least a third year. Students for whom English is not a first language need not fulfill credits in this department.

History and Global Studies......................................8 credits Three credits must be taken in U. S. History; many colleges require a third year. Three- and four-year students must take World Civilizations in the 9th or 10th grade. For two-, three-, and four-year students, at least one credit must be selected from among the religion and philosophy courses (6700 level).

Fine and Performing Art......................................... 3 credits Two-, three-, and four-year students must complete three

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Academic Standing Promotion Standards For promotion from 9th to 10th grade, a student must have successfully completed 12 credits, including three credits in 9th-grade English. For promotion from 10th to 11th grade, a student must have successfully accumulated 27 credits, including three credits in 10th-grade English.

For promotion from 11th to 12th grade, a student must have successfully accumulated 42 credits, including three credits in 11th-grade English.

Diploma requirements also include: a passing grade in all courses taken in the senior year; enrollment in five courses in the third trimester senior year, each worth one credit; enrollment at Williston throughout the senior year and through graduation ceremonies; positive citizenship; regular participation in the athletic program; and satisfactory completion of the Senior Project, for those who choose to do one.

Diplomas are granted on the voted recommendation of the faculty prior to graduation, confirmed by the vote of the Board of Trustees. Waiver of any diploma requirement may be granted only by the faculty upon a recommendation made by a committee that includes the head of school or his designated representative, the academic dean, the college counselor, and, when waiver of a specific course is involved, the department head.

Academic Probation Any student whose trimester report includes two grades lower than 70 or one grade lower than 60 shall be placed on academic probation. If the student’s grades at the end

The passing and college recommending grade at Williston is 60. Qualifications for Upper School honor roll are as follows:

Honors designations are based on weighted trimester grade point averages. All honors and advanced placement (AP) courses receive a five-point bonus in the grade point average only.

Special Academic Honors

Prizes and Awards

• • • • • • • •

The Bowdoin Book Prize (Grade 9) The Smith Book Award (Grade 9) The Williams Book Prize (Grade 10) The Yale Book Prize (Grade 10) The Harvard Book Prize (Grade 11) The Dartmouth Book Prize (Grade 11) The Holy Cross Book Prize (Grade 11) The Yale/Granniss Book Prize (Grade 11)

At the beginning of the fall trimester (for year-long courses) and at the beginning of each trimester (for trimester electives), an Upper School student may use the established course change procedure to withdraw from a course. No record of the course will appear on their transcript if the withdrawal occurs before interim comments are recorded. With the exception of these time periods, all withdrawals are recorded Withdrawn/Passing or Withdrawn/Failing. No requests for withdrawal from a course may be considered or approved more than seven days after interim comments are recorded.

Except under the most unusual of circumstances, students may not enter a course later than seven class days after the beginning of the course. A change in course level, for example from French III Honors to French III, would be an exception to this policy so long as the established course change procedure is followed.

In the Upper School, there are sometimes more courses offered in a trimester than will actually be taught. For most courses, it is necessary to have a minimum enrollment.

Grade Reports The school year consists of three trimesters with formal numerical grades recorded at the end of each trimester.

Interim comments for some students may also be recorded at the midpoint of a particular trimester. All interim and trimester grades and comments are made

Rules

2012-13 Student Handbook 5

Student Programs

The Upper School awards numerous endowed book prizes for academic achievement at the awards assembly.

Also presented at this time are the major class prizes for outstanding achievement in all areas of school life. These major prizes include:

Add/Drop

Facilities/services

Cum Laude Society: The highest honor for a student is election to the Cum Laude Society, a national organization that recognizes high academic achievement in independent secondary schools. Students eligible for election are those seniors who, in the judgment of the faculty membership, combine academic excellence and achievement with honorable citizenship, sound character, and active participation in school life.

Students in grades 9 through 12 are expected to take five courses each trimester, and students should expect about 45 minutes of homework in each class every day.

Occasionally, a student might be permitted to take six courses for a trimester, but a specific petition is required for this. A six-course load is typically reserved for students on High Honors from the previous trimester.

community Life

Honors: minimum grade point average of 87.

High Honors: minimum grade point average of 92.

Course Load and Homework

Residential Life

Academic Honors

Twelve senior prizes are awarded at graduation. The top three are the Valedictory Prize for the first scholar of the class, the Archibald V. Galbraith Prize for the outstanding senior boy, and the Sarah B. Whitaker Award (the White Blazer) for the outstanding senior girl.

Academics

of the following trimester are not sufficiently improved for removal from academic probation status, the student will be permitted to continue at Williston only by vote of the faculty. Each student who is placed on academic probation will meet with his or her teachers, his or her advisor, and the academic dean to formulate a plan to assist the student. The student and his or her parents will be notified promptly of the probation, as well as the features of any assistance plan.

available electronically to parents, students, and advisors.

Special Studies Williston Scholars The Williston Scholars program allows students to pursue their academic and creative passions and to apply their talents to a specific area of study. Each course in the Williston Scholars program provides a group of students the opportunity to engage in rigorous study in an interdisciplinary topic for one trimester, followed by a second trimester of independent project work. The course component of the program is taught by a Williston faculty member in close collaboration with professors, graduate students, researchers, and professionals from the surrounding community.

These courses are rigorous and the expectations are high as students prepare for the individual research they will use to complete a comprehensive project as part of

the curriculum. Projects are assessed at the end of the second trimester by a faculty committee, including the supervising teacher, collaborating community members, and the academic dean. Students whose projects are determined by the committee to be exceptional will receive special recognition as a Williston Scholar in the department hosting their course.

Directed Studies Directed Studies are tutorial courses on special topics not included in the regular curriculum. A student may plan a Directed Study with a faculty member, but final approval of the proposal is granted by the department head and the academic dean. The Directed Study must be a fifth or sixth course and is typically evaluated on a pass/fail basis.

Note: Students, parents, and faculty advisors should check the distribution requirements of particular colleges in which students may be interested as requirements and recommended course programs vary. Please see the Course of Studies book for course listings.

Academic Support When a student enters Williston at the Upper School level, his or her academic program is designed by the academic dean after review of the student’s records and any notes made by an admission officer during the student’s interview.

For returning students in both the Middle and Upper Schools, the academic program is drawn up initially by the student and the student’s faculty advisor. Students are advised to talk with their teachers about course choices and placement, and parents are urged to participate early in the process through consultation with the faculty advisor in April and May. In June, the academic departments and the Middle School faculty provide the academic dean with the names of those students who are recommended for placement in honors and/or advanced placement (AP) sections. While every effort is made to respond to legitimate requests for specific courses and to keep students and parents

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2012-13 Student Handbook

informed about the status of requests for honors and AP courses, placement in these courses is ultimately made by the academic dean in consultation with the academic departments. All AP courses follow approved syllabi, which prepare students for the AP exam in May. Students who enroll in an AP course should expect to take the AP exam. The cost of each AP exam in 2012 was $87.00.

Academic Advising Communication between families and the school is a vital part of educational support for students.

The Ninth Grade Program The transition from middle school to high school can be socially and academically challenging. Williston’s Ninth Grade Program advising team supports ninth grade students’ academic work through workshops, regular meetings, and communication between teachers,

The student’s faculty advisor works with teachers to coordinate appropriate levels of academic support.

This can include: • individual or group meetings with teachers outside of class • reduced course load for a trimester • progress reports obtained from the teachers on a bi-weekly basis

• tutoring by qualified students who volunteer their services through Areté, a student group that organizes peer tutoring on campus. Areté tutors, most of whom are seniors, are available during the class day, activities periods, and evening study hall hours.

• boarding students may be referred to an assigned Study Hall during evening study hours All academic support plans are implemented with the ultimate aim of increasing the student’s independence and responsibility for his or her own learning.

A myriad of adults serve in an advisory capacity including: the dean of students, Health Services staff, the associate head of schools, the academic dean, the director of college counseling and, the international student coordinator and director of diversity.

In addition, the international student coordinator oversees and assists all students who live outside the United States. The coordinator assists and supports all international students.

The director of diversity acts as a resource and as a guide, in order to ensure an inclusive and diverse community.

She directs programming and strategies on an individual and community basis for the empowerment and validation of all identities on campus.

Class Advisors: Members of the faculty advise each class, helping with class elections, meetings, and functions.

2012-13 Class Advisors Class of 2013: Beatrice Cody, David Koritkoski Class of 2014: Erin Davey, Mike Athas Class of 2015: Matt Spearing, Christa Talbot ’98

Rules

2012-13 Student Handbook 7

Student Programs

• arranging student/teacher/advisor/parent conferences

Each student has a faculty advisor who may be consulted on personal or academic matters and who serves as a liaison with the student’s family. The faculty advisor plays an important role in the student’s academic life in that the advisor works with the student on course planning and monitors the student’s progress throughout the school year. The advisor also oversees all aspects of the student’s involvement in school life and should be consulted by the student or parent when a problem arises. The faculty advisor is helpful in referring the student or parent to others in the school when specialized information or consultation is needed. The coordinators of the Ninth Grade Program also serve as liaisons to families of ninth graders and support both the students and their advisors.

Facilities/services

Academic Support Plans

Faculty Advisors

community Life

Throughout the year, the Ninth Grade Program advising team and ninth-grade teachers meet monthly to work on strategies to help those students who need additional academic support. In addition to the monthly meetings, teachers and advisors communicate academic concerns to Matt Sawyer and Allison Marsland through email, voicemail, or in person. Mr. Sawyer and Ms. Marsland work with students’ advisors, teachers, and Academic Dean Greg Tuleja to support those students and help them improve their academic work in order for them to achieve their potential.

Personal advice and counsel are offered in both formal and informal ways. While every faculty member is available informally as an advisor, faculty members have specially designated roles to help students with particular questions or circumstances.

Residential Life

During the first week of classes, ninth grade students attend a study skills workshop presented by Ninth Grade Program advisors, Areté tutors, and Writing Center tutors. Topics of the workshop include how to best use the Williston planner, how to use time effectively, how to make nightly homework plans, and how to prepare for short- and long-term projects.

Faculty Advising

Academics

advisors, and the program’s coordinators, Matt Sawyer and Allison Marsland. In addition, all ninth grade students are given Williston-specific academic planners to help with organization. The coordinators of the Ninth Grade Program also serve as liaisons to families of ninth graders.

Class of 2016: Jen Gross, Allison Marsland, Matt Sawyer

The Math Resource Center

One of the attributes of an independent school is the special relationship of confidence and trust we hope will develop between students and faculty. Knowing they may be entrusted with information that would necessitate additional faculty or professional counseling or medical treatment, faculty members are mandated to report when a student is a risk to him- or herself or to others in the community. Issues that must be reported include alcohol or drug abuse and concerns about sexuality.

The Math Resource Center, located in the Schoolhouse, offers assistance by student tutors who have been selected by the faculty. The center has regularly scheduled hours each school day.

The Writing Center The Writing Center, located on the second floor of the Clapp Library, offers one-on-one instruction for students who wish to improve their writing skills. Staffed by several members of the English Department and a dedicated and well-trained group of student tutors, the Writing Center, through a collaborative and supportive process, strives to improve each student as a writer, rather than focusing exclusively on the paper at hand. The staff is experienced in working with a wide variety of writing assignments from the school’s academic departments.

Director of the Writing Center Sarah Sawyer..................................................(413) 529-3091 ssawyer@williston.com

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Math Department Head Elizabeth Anderson........................................ (413) 529-4123 eanderson@williston.com

Residential Life

1. Dormitory Living................................................................................................ pg. 10 2. What to Bring..................................................................................................... pg. 10 3. Dorm Visitation.................................................................................................. pg. 11 4. Permissions to Enter and Leave Campus.........................................................pg. 12

2012-13 Student Handbook 9

Dormitory Living Common courtesy and respect for the rights and property of others are the fundamental tenets of community life. While there is consistency in guidelines, rules, and expectations for all students living in dormitories, there are times when dormitory parents may make individual rules pertinent to their particular dorm and the present circumstances.

WHAT TO BRING • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

blankets pillow sheets (twin XL size) and pillowcases mattress pad or cover towels laundry bag study lamp alarm clock (with battery back-up) computer computer monitor ( 27” or less in size) hair dryer razor fan small wastebasket clothes hangers cell phone

WHAT TO LEAVE HOME Use of the following items is not allowed: • refrigerator • television • space heater • electric blanket • halogen lamp Rooms Dorm rooms, which are Williston property, may be inspected at any time. The rooms are to be kept clean and neat and will be inspected regularly by dormitory faculty and from time-to-time by the deans.

Wall decorations may be hung from molding or attached with Holdit® or Fun-Tac®, which does not mar the walls and can be obtained at the Campus Store. Wall hangings

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2012-13 Student Handbook

must be widely spaced, meeting all fire code regulations and none should extend across the ceiling or out into the room. Tacks, nails, screws, and tape may not be used on the walls, as they cause permanent damage. All decorations are to be appropriate in nature as they may be viewed by the general public and families. Empty alcoholic beverage containers and any drug or alcohol insignia are not allowed.

Signs and stickers on doors should follow the same guidelines so that they don’t damage the paint or finish.

Mattresses: The school provides approved fire retardant mattresses. Anyone wishing to provide his or her own mattress must submit proof to the director of the physical plant that it meets Massachusetts standards. Mattresses and bedsprings are not to be used on the floor.

Furnishings: Basic room furnishings are provided: bed, bureau, desk and straight chair, mirror, and curtains or shades. Students must provide blankets, sheets, pillows, pillowcases, towels, a laundry bag, and a study lamp.

Only one piece of personal furniture, such as a sofa or an upholstered chair, may be allowed per student in a room, subject to available space as determined by the director of physical plant. The maximum size of any piece of furniture is five feet.

Appliances: Only the following electrical appliances are permitted in dormitory rooms: clocks, radios, CD and iPod players, personal computers, hair dryers, razors, hair straighteners, and fans. Cell phones, used in accordance with school and dorm rules, are permitted. Only dormitory proctors are permitted to have a refrigerator; otherwise, refrigerators, television sets, coffee makers, space heaters, electric blankets, and halogen lamps are not allowed for energy conservation and because of the danger of electrical overload and fire. Similarly, computer monitors are limited in size to 27 inches. UL-approved, circuit breaker-protected power strips are the only “extension cords” allowed.

Music: The use of headphones is encouraged and required during quiet hours and study hours. Music is to be played so that it is heard only within the room.

Television: Common room and student center televisions

Room keys and/or key cards are issued at registration and a charge of $20.00 will be assessed for a lost key/card. A replacement key/card may be purchased at the Business Office after a lost key/card form has been obtained from the Dean’s Office. If the original key is returned, the Business Office will refund $10.00. If a room key is not returned at the end of the year, the $20.00 charge is billed.

Guests The school permits guests for overnight visits, including day students, for a fee that includes dinner and breakfast.

2012-13 Student Handbook 11

Rules

Living with others is an important life lesson that involves learning to compromise, to appreciate others’ perspectives, and to share conversation with others.

The Dean’s Office assigns returning boarding students housing and the Admission Office assigns new boarding students housing. Every effort is made to keep rooming assignments for the year and students should seek the counsel of dorm heads, proctors, and the deans when there is disagreement or discontent. Following those conversations, if the situation continues to be unresolved, a room change form may be obtained from the Dean’s Office and must be signed by the student’s advisor,

Boys and girls are permitted to visit in each other’s dormitory rooms during certain hours, with the consent and supervision of the dormitory faculty. The hours are 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday evenings and on Fridays without study hall, and 7:30 p.m. to 7:50 p.m. (before study hall) on school nights. The faculty members on dormitory duty will supervise, and all guests must check in, and out, with the faculty member and must be invited by the person being visited. Doors must remain wide open and lights must be on. Students who violate these visiting rules will be subject to disciplinary action.

If a student goes into a room without checking in with a faculty member, it will be considered a violation of a major school rule (see Major Rule Violations on page 43), rather than a violation of visiting privileges.

Student Programs

Room Assignments

Dorm visitation As a general rule, only residents of a dormitory are allowed in their dorm during the academic day. However, a visitor of the same sex as the dorm resident may be a guest in the common room during the academic day.

After the completion of the academic day, guests of dorm residents are permitted in the dorm common room. This privilege is limited to the common room and does not extend into hallways or other areas unless the faculty member on duty gives special permission. Dorm parents may make specific rules pertaining to individual dorms.

Facilities/services

Room Search: The school reserves the right to conduct a room search when there is suspicion of stealing, possession of weapons, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, other illegal items, or a threat of harm to a student or others. To the extent possible, the student whose room is searched will be present while the search is conducted and two faculty members or school officials will conduct the search.

All dormitories hold at least one fire drill each trimester, including one during the first week of school. At the first sound of the alarm, each person is to move quickly and quietly out of the building according to a predetermined plan of exit. Attendance is taken outside the building under the supervision of the dormitory parent on duty.

Fire drills are of obvious importance and are conducted more frequently if they have not been held to the satisfaction of school authorities. Drills to prepare for response to an emergency situation are also held. All students will receive instruction on how to prepare for such situations and the precautions that should be taken.

community Life

Pets are not permitted in student rooms.

Fire and Safety Drills

Residential Life

Cleanliness and Damage: Students are responsible for the cleanliness of their rooms and will be assessed for damage to furnishings or rooms. Desks are to be neat enough to provide usable working space and viewable from the doorway of the room. Floors are to be kept picked up and clear of clothing and papers. A laundry bag should be used so that dirty laundry is not left around the room. Any damage to the room should be reported to the director of physical plant to ensure that responsibility is appropriately identified and damage repaired. Cursory inspections by school personnel may occur at any time. Any room not properly cleaned out at the end of the year is subject to a cleaning charge.

dormitory head, and the dean of students before a move will be considered or approved.

Academics

may not be used before 5:30 p.m. on weekday afternoons and after 12:30 p.m. on class Saturdays. On weekends, TVs should be turned off at midnight.

Guests must know and abide by the same rules that govern students.

concerns about a student’s behavior or misuse of the privilege by the Dean’s Office.

Day students must make arrangements to spend a night at the school; such arrangements must be made at the Dean’s Office at least one day in advance. There is a cost of $50.00 per night (which includes the cost of meals). If the day student is staying for a school-sponsored activity (such as late play rehearsals or productions), the charge is $15.00 per night. Any person who was a student in prior years, or the current year, and is no longer enrolled is NOT permitted to stay overnight in a dormitory.

All students must be in their dormitories by 10:00 p.m. and checked in for the night by the dorm parent on duty. Respect for the quiet hours set aside for study and sleeping reflects the schools concern for student’s well-being and that of the community. On nights before classes, all underclass students must be in their own rooms by 10:30 p.m. and all technology and phone communications, including cell phones, should cease; seniors and proctors have the privilege of visiting and using phones until 11:00 p.m.

Hours School Nights: All students must be in their rooms during the evening study period, which runs from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m., unless a dorm parent has given permission in accordance with the library, computer lab, and art studio sign-out policies or if a student is involved in a specific faculty-directed extracurricular activity. In the interest of maintaining an appropriate study hall environment, students may not use electronic devices to communicate with others during study hall, play computer games, or use electronic devices for entertainment. These measures have been put in place to focus students on their daily preparations for their academic classes.

Seniors on honors are granted the privilege not to be present for the evening study period, but must notify the dorm parent on duty before 8:00 p.m. if they will exercise this privilege that evening. This “senior on honors” privilege is determined each trimester according to each student’s GPA (87 average or above) and general citizenship. The privilege may be withdrawn if there are

Students may not leave the dormitory before 6:00 a.m. at any time after checking in for the night except in an emergency or with special permission. Students leaving the dormitory after checking in will be in violation of a major school rule.

Weekends: On weekend evenings all students must be in their dormitories by 11:00 p.m. Being absent without permission at check-in time is a serious matter and will result in disciplinary action.

Day Students: Day students are not to be on campus after the check-in hours for boarding students except in special circumstances authorized by the Dean’s Office.

If day students remain on campus after 8:00 p.m. on weeknights, they are to observe all study hall guidelines.

Day students must obtain permission from the dorm parent on duty if they wish to study with a dorm resident in a common room. The campus is closed to day students and visitors after the check-in time for boarders (10:00 p.m. on weeknights and 11:00 p.m. on Saturday nights and (Blue week) Friday nights) and transportation should be arranged accordingly.

Permissions to Enter and Leave Campus Williston is a seven-day school and all academic, athletic, extracurricular and other responsibilities must be met before a student leaves the campus.

A boarding student having no school obligations may 12

2012-13 Student Handbook

receive the permission and sign out to leave the campus for an overnight or weekend (unless the weekend is “closed”). On closed weekends, all boarding students are expected to remain on campus and participate in planned

• Overnight or weekend leave ends as soon as the student returns to campus, which should be no later than 7:30 p.m. on Sunday. If extenuating circumstances occur and a late return is necessary, please call the Dean on Duty or the dorm parent on duty as early as possible to notify him or her of the situation. Unauthorized late returns may result in loss of weekend sign-out privileges. Seniors on honors or proctors must notify the dorm parent on duty before 8:00 p.m. if they will be late.

Off-Campus Travel and Visitations

• Option 1: Parents must grant permission each time a student leaves the campus overnight, and the hosting adult must extend an invitation for each visit.

• Option 2: If a student is planning to visit another Williston family, that student’s parents do not need to grant permission each time, but rather give permission for this to occur throughout the school year. For each visit, the hosting adult(s) need to guarantee that an adult will be present.

• Current students may not sign out to the home of any student who has left the school for disciplinary reasons.

• Boarding students staying at the school for athletic tournaments at the end of the academic term are expected to stay in the dorms overnight unless they have explicit permission from the coach, the Dean’s Office, and their parents to do otherwise.

• The school cannot grant requests for students to sign out for an overnight where there are no parents or guardians present. The one exception is a college visit, and a parent must explicitly acknowledge a student’s sign-out to that college by notifying the Dean’s Office prior to the visit. Students may not sign out for overnights to colleges except in the case of a college visit that has been approved by the student’s college counselor.

• Students may not take weekends in the greater Easthampton area unless invited to the home of a Williston student. Parents who accept students into their homes for overnight visits are assuring the school that the students will go to those homes and are under the supervision of those parents.

2012-13 Student Handbook 13

Rules

• On an overnight, if the student wishes to change their location, this requires the permission of the host and the understanding and acceptance of the visiting student’s parents. While the host parent

Student Programs

Overnight and Weekends: Permission for boarding students to leave campus for the weekend or any other overnight visit is determined by which of the two options, below, is selected by the student’s parents. Any student wishing to leave campus for an overnight must have the hosting adult call the Dean’s Office. Students returning home for even one night need to complete a “green sheet” and have a parent or other responsible adult, contact the Dean’s Office. Furthermore, the Dean’s Office reserves the right to rescind any overnight or weekend request.

• Athletes with games on Saturday may not sign out on Friday night except to be with their parents or at the home of a day student.

Facilities/services

We have clear policies on campus to provide a safe social environment for students. When a day or boarding parent extends an invitation to a boarding student as an overnight guest, the school expects that a parent will be at home and will not permit student use of alcohol or drugs. More recently, Massachusetts law enforcement has increasingly become involved in pursuing adults who allow underage use of alcohol and drugs in their homes. Parents are urged to communicate with each other to ensure that all student gatherings are supervised and substance free. Parents have access to each other’s contact information via the Family Directory on WillyNet.

community Life

Although there is no restriction on the number of weekends away a student may take, due to the nature of the boarding community and in order to establish strong ties to the community, students are expected not to leave more than once or twice a month.

• Students must complete and submit a “green sheet” by 10:30 a.m. on Thursday and the Dean’s Office must receive the invitation from the host family by 2:00 p.m. on Friday. The “green sheet” is, in essence, an official contract for overnight or weekend travel.

Residential Life

Procedures for Leaving Campus on the Weekend

Academics

community events. The closed weekends are the first weekend of the school year with Saturday classes (Sept. 15-16) and last weekends (Nov. 9-11, Feb. 23-24, and May 24-26). Extenuating circumstances that would excuse a student from remaining on campus on a closed weekend must be discussed with and approved by the dean of students.

may agree to let visitors go off to another place, visiting student parents are expecting host parents to provide supervision and to accept responsibility for their care. In addition, the school expects to be able to communicate with any of its boarding students when they are away on an overnight. A student on an overnight or weekend has the additional responsibility of notifying the school of any changes to the information that was provided to the school.

• Any abuse of the weekend privileges or falsification of the permission form may result in a major rule violation and loss of visitation privileges.

Day Travel: Permission for boarding students to leave Williston and travel beyond the campus boundaries during the academic day or on a weekend day is dependent on which option is selected by a student’s parents.

Campus boundaries include the Williston campus and the downtown Easthampton area bordered by Route 141 and Nini’s Restaurant to the east, Williston Avenue to Nonotuck Park to Galbraith Fields to the east and south, the traffic rotary to the north, and Route 10 to the west.

Traveling into town and within campus boundaries during the academic day and on weekend days is allowed; however, all students must sign out and back in either in their dormitory or at the reception area in Schoolhouse.

At all times, if a student desires to travel outside of campus boundaries, permission must be obtained by either the student 1) contacting the Dean’s Office or the dean on duty to obtain permission just prior to travel or 2) planning ahead and completing a permission to travel form in the Dean’s Office, which would be approved at that time and well ahead of time of the departure from campus. In addition, boarding students must sign out in their dormitory. The information provided by the student to the Dean’s Office will include their destination, time of departure, time of return, mode of transportation, and

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driver, if traveling by car. This information is similar to that solicited by most parents in their own homes and has been instituted so that the school has knowledge of students’ whereabouts when traveling off-campus independently of any school sponsored activity or trip.

When planning day departures, students are expected to meet all school commitments—academic, athletic, or extracurricular— and plan accordingly. If a student’s plans change and he or she will not be able to arrive back on campus at the expected return time, he or she must call the dean on duty to discuss their situation. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action and/or a loss of permissions. As a general rule, ninth graders and tenth graders should not expect to receive permission to travel beyond campus boundaries during the academic week unless there are extenuating circumstances. A conversation with the dean or assistant dean of students in advance of the expected departure.

Option 1: Requires parental permission each time a student wishes to travel beyond campus boundaries on a day permission.

Option 2: Has permission to travel beyond campus boundaries on a day permission only to Northampton without further parental approval.

Option 3: Has permission to travel beyond campus boundaries on a day permission to any destination without further parental approval.

Community Life

1. Day Students....................................................................................................... pg. 16 2. International Students...................................................................................... pg. 16 3. Diversity at Williston......................................................................................... pg. 16 4. Vacations, Religious Services, and Holidays....................................................pg. 17 5. Student Activities and Organizations................................................................pg. 17 6. Student Leadership............................................................................................ pg. 18

2012-13 Student Handbook 15

Community Life Community life seeks to promote Williston’s core values: respect for self and others, responsibility and trust, and honesty and integrity. We seek to build, support, and unify our community by providing enriching experiences, by providing programs that educate our community about critical issues, and by building a common vocabulary and mission. We recognize that nonjudgmental, open, and honest dialogue is vital to maintaining a healthy and vibrant community. We value a student-centered approach that helps develop leadership and global citizenship through the creation of events and experiences by students for the Williston community. We strive to include a rich variety of voices and seek input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, and guests.

Day Students Day students participate in all aspects of the regular school program, including athletics, and may take part in weekend activities as well. Day students must observe school regulations when on campus and while attending off-campus school functions. They should be aware that student behavior anywhere, whether under the school’s jurisdiction or not, is subject to review. Day and boarding students are subject to the same expectations and consequences for their behavior. Information that applies more specifically to day students is noted within each section of this handbook. In particular, for information regarding overnight stays on campus, refer to page 12. For information regarding students driving to and from school, and for parking locations, see page 38.

International Students International students with F-1 visas are responsible for registering their I-20s and passports with the International Student Coordinator upon arrival to campus. Any international travel thereafter must be approved and registered with the International Student Coordinator. This process is essential to maintain and active visa status. For information regarding travel arrangements see page 12.

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All international students and students with families living abroad must have on file the name, address, phone number, and email address of an individual within the continental United States with whom they will stay during Thanksgiving, winter, and spring vacations, if not returning home. Planning for these vacations is the responsibility of the family. The school is closed during these times, and boarding students are not permitted to remain on campus.

Diversity at Williston In accordance with the school’s mission, there are two Diversity Committees dedicated to actively creating a community culture that is respectful, aware of all individuals, approaches, and perspectives on campus.

The committees endorse a broad definition of diversity, and seek to provide programs and resources that enhance knowledge and encourage understanding of diversity. The adult Diversity Committee is comprised of members of the faculty, staff, administration, and Five College interns and reflects the scope of cultural identities in our community.

The student Diversity Committee works in collaboration with the adult Diversity Committee, and is largely responsible for setting the vision and programming for the year including the Diversity Conference. Both committees are chaired by the director of diversity.

Vacations All students must leave the school during Thanksgiving (dismissed at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 17 and return on Nov. 26 by 7:30 p.m.), winter (dismissed at 12:15 p.m. on Dec. 13 and return on Jan. 2 by 7:30 p.m.), and spring (dismissed at 10:30 a.m. on March 1 and return on March 26 by 7:30 p.m.). The school cannot provide housing or meals, nor assume responsibility for students during vacation periods.

During a long weekend, if needed, at least one dorm for each gender may remain open. This year the dorms are: • Fall: John Wright House and 194 Main Street (Hathaway, if necessary)

• Spring: Conant Hall and Memorial West (Logan, if necessary)

The school reserves the right to close the dormitories and offer an off-campus excursion for students who are unable to leave campus for the long weekend. This excursion will incur an additional fee.

A student must not return before the published arrival

Religious Services and Holidays Churches and synagogues are located in Easthampton and nearby towns and information about them is available through the Dean’s Office. Students may be excused from school on religious holidays with parental permission which should be arranged in advance with the Dean’s Office.

Starting a Club

1. leadership skills;

Fundraising

2. self-esteem through successful personal achievement within organizational structures, group interaction, and achievement of specific group goals;

Fundraising is limited to on-campus groups and is not for personal benefit. A group wishing to raise funds must have the approval of the director of student activities, the chief advancement officer, the dean of students, and the assistant business manager.

4. time-management and organizational skills; concern for the school and global community through giving of self, sharing, and explorations of common interests with others.

The school believes that students should participate in such activities in order to take full advantage of the opportunities for intellectual, physical, social, and creative development.

Student Activities Office and Campus Activities Board Each week, the Student Activities Office offers opportunities for students to attend a variety of events.

On weekend evenings, options may include a play, school dance, movie, concerts on or off campus, or trips to events in the Pioneer Valley, Springfield, Hartford, Boston, or New York. The school takes advantage of events at Smith, Mount Holyoke, Amherst, and Hampshire Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Transportation is arranged by the Director of

Rules

2012-13 Student Handbook 17

Student Programs

3. new interests and life-long professional/leisure activities as well as artistic and other talents;

Students are encouraged to join or form new clubs in their areas of interest. In order to start a club, a student first should ask the director of student activities for counsel.

Facilities/services

Williston believes that significant education and enrichment occur outside the classroom through involvement in extracurricular student organizations.

Participation develops:

community Life

Student Activities and Organizations

Residential Life

The school will assign rooms to students who need to stay on campus for the weekend. Students in an open dorm who will be away for the long weekend will need to remove sheets and pillowcases and secure any personal items in the event that the room is needed for another student’s use.

dates on the calendar unless special arrangements have been made through the Dean’s Office. Dormitories are locked and supervision is not available during vacations and at the end of a term. Students needing to travel the day after a vacation begins may stay the first night of the break if permission is obtained in advance from the Dean’s Office.

Academics

• Winter: Memorial East and Ford Hall

Student Activities Office and provided by faculty members and/or our bus company. The Director of Student Activities Office is located in the Reed Campus Center.

Clubs and Activities • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Academic Team Asian Club Bluegrass Club Chamber Orchestra Community Life Committee Community Service Organization Concert Band Dance Ensemble Film Club Gay/Straight Alliance Gold Key The Green Team Jam Band Jazz Ensemble Math Club Metal Band Model United Nations

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mountaineering P.R.I.D.E. Robotics Club Science Olympiad Student Alumni Association Student Diversity Committee Table Tennis Teller Chorus Theatre Ensemble T.R.I.B.E. (trust, respect, individuality, belief, equality) Ultimate Frisbee Young Republicans School Publications Janus (literary magazine) The Log (yearbook) The Willistonian (student newspaper) Peer Tutors and Mentors

A selection process is required for: • Areté (senior tutors) • Math Resource Center peer mentors • Writing Center peer mentors

Student Leadership Student Council The Student Council facilitates dialogue between Upper School students and the school’s faculty and administration. The council initiates proposals for consideration and adoption by the faculty and administration, and reviews and offers student opinion plans or proposals which significantly affect students.

There are 13 members of the Student Council: four representatives from the class officers (one from each class, traditionally the president), four class representatives elected at large (one from each class), two representatives from the proctors (one male and one female), one representative from Student Activities, and two faculty members. Any student may provide input to the student council through the student representatives.

The council also produces and promotes events for the

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entire Williston community, such as pep rallies, dances, and fundraisers.

2012-13 Student Council Officers • President: Matt Freire ’13 • Vice-President: Maddy Stern ’14 • Secretary: Loren Po ’15 • Treasurer: to be elected from the freshman class Class Representatives • • • •

Class of 2013: Ryan Wilkie Class of 2014: Oliver Demers Class of 2015: Gabby Thomas Class of 2016: to be elected in the fall

Faculty Advisors • Ted Matthias • Kevin Kudla

The Discipline Committee, chaired by the associate head of school, consists of students elected by the student body, faculty members, and a representative from the Dean’s Office. The committee meets with an equal number of students and faculty members. Parents do not attend Discipline Committee meetings.

Proctors, typically seniors and juniors, are student leaders in the dormitories who serve to enhance dormitory life.

As a link between students, dormitory faculty, and the Dean’s Office, proctors help to create and maintain a supportive atmosphere and an efficiently run dormitory.

They assist with evening study halls, help create a sense of dorm unity, and are alert to student needs, offering advice and assistance when necessary. The proctors also meet regularly with the deans.

Class Officers Class officers are elected to serve for one year.

The officers organize and lead class functions, serve as representatives to the Student Council (one from each class), and seek to foster class unity and spirit.

Class of 2015 • President: Loren Po • Vice President: Terry O’Brien • Treasurer: Noah Jackson • Secretary: Hannah Lee • Class Representative: Gabby Thomas Class of 2016 • TBA

• Conant House: Tim Keegan, TJ Kim, Tom Walsh • Ford Hall: Jean-Francois Boucher, Omash Ekperigan, Griffin Foley, Matt Freire, Andy Pierce, Ryan Wilkie • French House: Alyssa Cote, Gia Parker • Hathaway House: Edwin Kim, George Xu • John Wright House: Shaina D’Souza, Hannah Lewis, Bianca Schultz, Sylvia Skerry, Sarah Socolosky, Haoshu Xu • Logan House: Jean-Gabriel Lacombe, Ryun Parent • Memorial Hall East: Madeline Hatch, Alexandra Sampedro • Memorial Hall West: Maggie Dewey, Kelly O’Donnell, Hannah Whirty Day Student Proctors A number of senior and junior day students are selected in the spring as proctors of the day students at Williston.

They meet regularly with the deans on issues that pertain to day students—weekend concerns, use of campus facilities, cars and parking—and, more significantly, specific ways that day students can contribute to and enhance the entire Williston community. Since proctors serve as respected role models, they must maintain creditable academic and social standing.

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Rules

2012-13 Day Student Proctors • Aliza Barker, Matt Cavanaugh, Pantki Dala, Oliver Demers, Devon Greenwood, Alec Guay, Laura McCullagh, Evan Jacobson, Mairead Poulin, Mike Moran, Karly Simpson, Jack Shumway, Maddy Wise

Student Programs

Class of 2014: • President: Maddy Stern • Vice President; Bianca Schultz • Treasurer: Elizabeth Calderone • Secretary: Persis Ticknor-Swanson • Representative: Oliver Demers

• Clare House: Patrick DeNuccio, Matt Wagman

Facilities/services

2012-13 Class Officers Class of 2013: • President: Matt Freire • Vice President: Madeline Wise • Secretary: Zoe Lai • Treasurer: Caitlin Berube • Representative: Ryan Wilkie

2012-13 Dormitory Proctors • 194 Main Street Dormitory: Percy Chen, Marquis Francois, Ethan Kimball, Nick Pattison

community Life

2012-13 Discipline Committee Members • Class of 2013: Omash Ekperigin, Devon Greenwood, Jean-Gabriel Lacombe, Hannah Lewis, Ryan Wilkie, Cameron Zawacki • Class of 2014: Elizabeth Calderone, Brittany Collins, Shaina D’Souza, Alex Massengill, Nicholas Pattison, Maddy Stern • Class of 2015: Terence O’Brien, Emmett O’Malley, Julia Valine

Residential Life

Dormitory Proctors

Academics

Discipline Committee

International Student Leaders International Students Intern (Diversity and International) William Huang 2012-2013 International Interns • Emily Wang • Nan Ding • Jiwon Lee • Tina Zhang • Michael Thompson 2012-2013 Diversity Interns • Maranie Harris-Kuiper • Miiko Phillips • Hannah Whirty • Esther Kim

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facilities and services

1. Health Services and Counseling....................................................................... pg. 22 2. Technology at Williston..................................................................................... pg. 25 3. The Robert Parker Clapp Library......................................................................pg. 26 4. Student Services................................................................................................ pg. 27 5. Dining Hall........................................................................................................ pg. 27 6. Security...............................................................................................................pg. 28

2012-13 Student Handbook 21

Health Services and Counseling Health Services defines its role broadly with strong emphasis on education. The support services assist students in making personal decisions as they deal with wellness, injury, illness, sexuality, self-esteem, and other social and emotional issues.

Health Services is staffed by registered nurses. When Health Services is not open, a nurse is always on call.

To reach the nurse outside of routine clinic hours for urgent care, call (413) 529-3911. For life threatening emergencies, call 911.

Records and Consent A yearly health form, which includes consent for medical treatment, is required for every student and must be submitted by the opening of school. All students are required to have an annual physical examination.

Please note that Williston does not conduct the health examination that Massachusetts provides for public school students. A completed immunization record is required to attend school in Massachusetts and can be found on the back of the physical exam form. All records are kept in a confidential file at Health Services for seven years.

Williston believes the physical and emotional safety of its students is paramount. If a student feels that he or she may have been the subject of harassment of any kind, bullying, or hazing, from an adult or another student (see p.33), he or she should report the alleged incident immediately to his or her adviser, dean of students, director of Health Services, school counselor, or any trusted adult in the school. Any reports of alleged bullying, harassment of any kind, or hazing will be promptly investigated. Williston categorically prohibits all sexual contact, relationships, or advances between adults and students, both on campus and off, for all employees of the school.

Health Insurance

Health Education

Medications

The focus of Health Services is to provide students with information and a forum for discussion on current adolescent health issues. All students will be given an opportunity to attend a variety of health meetings throughout the year on current teenage issues. Health Center staff orient students at the beginning of each school year to the services available on campus and specialist appointments that can be arranged.

Controlled prescription medications as well as medications for ADD, depression, etc. will be registered and held at Health Services and dispensed daily during routine clinic hours. Students will need a doctor’s note to validate the need for medication. If students need to keep medications refrigerated in their rooms, they may only use a micro-fridge (11”x 8”) unless they are proctors.

Students may purchase a micro-fridge through the school or on their own.

Health Services has a free lending library of texts, pamphlets, videos, and cassettes on a variety of health subjects. Students can borrow materials by visiting the Center.

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All students must have health insurance while attending Williston. A copy of a current medical insurance card and of a prescription card must be kept on file in the Health Services Office. Changes in insurance information must be updated immediately by contacting the Health Center.

International students, national students who do not have a U.S.-based health insurance plan, and students with state health coverage must arrange for the purchase of the comprehensive student health insurance policy offered by Williston. This insurance information is available from the Business Office.

Emergencies Our medical director and counseling staff maintain regular office hours at Health Services and are available on call for emergencies. The nurse on duty will make appointments for students should the need arise. Serious illnesses or injuries are treated at local hospitals.

All other notifications are at the discretion of the medical staff, and take into consideration a student’s wish to make confidential appointments.

Reproductive Health

Counseling

When the Health Center is not open, an on-call nurse is available at (413) 529-3911.

Health Care Providers Health Services will transport boarding students to appointments with local providers between the hours of 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. daily. There is a fee for this service. Please contact Health Services to make arrangements.

Dentist Dr. Theodore Midura......................... (413) 527-2330 5 Campus Lane, Easthampton, MA 01027 Dermatologists Dr. Bruce Goldstein........................... (413) 586-5798 190 Nonotuck Street, Florence, MA 01060 Dr. Katherine White.........................1-888-886-7601 39 Carlon Drive, Northampton, MA 01060 Ob-Gyn Tapestry Health Systems....................(413) 586-2539 16 Center Street, Northampton, MA 01060 Northampton Ob-Gyn...................... (413) 586-9866 30 Locust Street, Northampton, MA 01060 Orthodontist DeMaio Orthodontics.......................... 413) 586-0555 264 Elm Street, Northampton, MA 01060 Podiatrist Dr. Raymond Dubois......................... (413) 529-9654 126 Northampton Street, Easthampton, MA 01027

2012-13 Student Handbook 23

Rules

Psychological counseling services are provided through a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical psychologist who hold regularly scheduled hours and are on call for emergencies. They provide short-term counseling and will refer students in need of more intensive care to psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, or other behavioral health providers in the community. All ethical and legal considerations with respect to confidentiality are followed.

Health Services Hours Monday – Friday......................7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. .................................................and 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Class Saturday...................... 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Non-class Saturday..............11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Sunday...11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Student Programs

With acknowledgment that adolescents are legally free to schedule gynecological exams, obtain non-prescription and prescription prevention for both sexually transmitted diseases and contraception, arrange pregnancy tests, and seek counseling from clinics and physicians, Health Services will offer the above services, providing students with the choice of being able to talk with those health professionals whom they know and trust and who have their health and well-being as their foremost concern.

Director of Health Services, Director of Psychological Counseling Services Benjamin Thompson, LICSW, BCD

Facilities/services

As outlined under Major School Rules, the school does not condone intimate sexual contact between teenagers, but we understand that the adolescent developmental urge to express sexual feelings may result in such contact.

We therefore recognize that there will be occasions that necessitate counseling and care in areas specifically related to sexuality.

Medical Director Jerald Feinland, M.D.

community Life

The reproductive health needs of adolescents include general wellness concerns such as good health care and dealing with issues of friendship, romantic attachments, and intimacy, as well as specific concerns about pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Contacts

Residential Life

Parents are generally notified when a student sees the school physician, is treated at the hospital, or stays overnight at Health Services for medical reasons. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide the school with current phone numbers and an email address.

A confidential fax number should also be listed on the health form since some communication may be best achieved that way.

Academics

Parent Notification

Medical Leave Understanding the nature and range of conditions that arise with teenagers, the treatment for certain medical and psychological conditions and behaviors must occur outside the boarding school setting. Severe depression, eating disorders, suicide ideation or attempts, self injury, and substance abuse disorders are examples of such conditions and generally require more treatment, support, supervision, and guidance than a boarding school can provide. In some situations, these conditions and behaviors may also create undue disruption in the community and residential life of the school. Should such a situation arise, the school reserves the right to require a medical leave of absence or separation.

A voluntary or mandated medical leave may be authorized by the medical director, director of health services, the dean of students, or the associate head of school in consultation with the director of psychological counseling services, the academic dean, the dormitory head, and the advisor to address physical and emotional illnesses that, in their judgment, cannot be adequately treated in a school setting.

These same individuals will determine whether and under what conditions that student should return to school.

Initially, students will be granted a medical leave and approved absence from the school for no more than two weeks. During this time, the dean of students and academic dean will notify the teachers of the student’s absence. If appropriate, the student should contact his or her teachers to continue course work from offcampus with the responsibility resting on the student to gather assignments.

A “long term medical leave” is any leave for health reasons of more than two weeks and less than one academic year. Often such a leave may be necessary for the student’s condition to be adequately addressed and stabilized. The associate head of school, dean of students, and academic dean will confer with teachers, dormitory head, and advisor to determine the academic consequences of such a leave and will communicate this to the student and parents.

In certain cases, however a “medical separation” from the school for health reasons requiring more than one academic year may be appropriate, either on a voluntary or mandated basis. This leave is reserved for the student who

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has demonstrated efforts to adjust but for health reasons cannot meet the requirements of the school community, either academically and/or socially. While this type of leave involves the loss of a student’s place in the school, it is distinguished from a withdrawal or dismissal as it leaves open the possibility of return to the school.

Alcohol and Drugs Alcohol and drug experimentation and abuse can result in emotional, social, and physical problems. Students who are concerned about alcohol or drug use may seek confidential help and information from Health Services staff in order to determine whether their pattern of drug or alcohol use is problematic and/or to initiate treatment.

Sanctuary In any medical crisis, even if drug- or alcohol-induced, it is imperative for medical evaluation and attention to begin as soon as possible. To encourage students to seek medical help in an emergency situation, students are assured that obtaining Health Services medical assistance, or asking a faculty member to obtain emergency medical assistance, will initiate medical rather than disciplinary intervention.

Students may bring sanctuary into effect for themselves or a friend whose health is at risk because of alcohol or drug use by contacting the on-call nurse or dean on duty at (413) 529-3911. This request must be student initiated and occur prior to any faculty member coming upon a student who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Faculty members are required by the school to report infractions of drug and alcohol policies to the dean on duty and therefore cannot declare sanctuary for a student.

Final determination as to whether a specific case has met the medical criteria for crisis will rest with the medical professionals. A student is allowed one sanctuary during their tenure at Williston.

Students who misuse this emergency protocol to avoid normal disciplinary action for drug or alcohol abuse will be referred to the Dean’s Office.

Following treatment for an alcohol or drug crisis, the student must have an independent assessment within two weeks of returning to school. This may be done in the Easthampton area or in the student’s home community. The professional staff conducting the

Administrative Referrals

Where faculty members observe sufficient indications to believe that a student may be involved in substance use, there will be administrative intervention with required evaluation and follow-up treatment. If a student discloses substance use to a faculty member, the faculty member will report such information to the Dean’s Office, which will initiate a formal intervention.

A more detailed description of the intervention process, including a list of local resources, is available to parents upon request from the Dean’s Office, the Academic Office, or Health Services.

Email Faculty, staff, administrators, and students can be reached via their Williston email address: first initial followed by the last name and @williston.com (e.g. jsmith@williston.com).

Williston’s online community provides students, parents, faculty and staff, alumni, and friends with a centralized place to find the information that’s important to them, including grades, schedules, and documents.

Connectivity Each boarding student has a network port available in their dorm room. Wireless access is available in every academic building, the library, and the student center (known as the StuBop). Directions for accessing the campus network are given to each student at registration.

• Document Retrieval and Storage The school provides a storage storage system called SkyDrive.

• Copying / Printing Students are given access to printing and copying.

2012-13 Student Handbook 25

Rules

Seniors will continue to have access to email until the first day of July following their graduation, at which point their accounts will be disabled and no longer accessible.

WillyNet

Student Programs

Williston’s Technology Department recognizes the increasingly important role that technology plays in the lives of our students, and of the community. Because success with technology is so vital, we are committed to providing exceptional technical service and guidance to everyone in our community. The Technology Department collaborates with teachers, administrators, and students to enhance everyone’s academic, extracurricular, and social experience, and to prepare our students for success in college and beyond.

Facilities/services

Technology at Williston

community Life

A student who breaks the school’s alcohol or drug rules is required to have an evaluation by a trained health professional. The family may have the evaluation performed at home during the period of the suspension, or it can be arranged when the student returns through Health Services. The evaluation must be completed

Regardless of the source of the counselor/consultant, his or her recommendation concerning appropriate follow-up and support must be followed. The director of Health Services, in consultation with the evaluator, will oversee implementation of the recommendation. She will communicate with parent(s) throughout the procedure.

Residential Life

Any recommendations coming out of the consultation between the independent substance abuse evaluator and Health Services must be followed. Students referred to Health Services for a second time for alcohol or drug use will be considered to have a major medical/psychological problem which will be reviewed by the Dean’s Office for a disciplinary response and/or and medical leave.

within two weeks of the student’s return.

Academics

assessment will, with parental notification and consent, complete an assessment of the student’s alcohol or drug use, make recommendations, and discuss those recommendations with either the counseling staff or the director of Health Services.

Computer Requirements The school is multi-platform and supports both Apple and Microsoft devices. We currently do not have any specific computer hardware requirements. However, we suggest the following for students’ computers: Microsoft Windows-based computers: • English-language version of Windows 7 • Anti-virus program (the school can provide a free one if none exists) • Microsoft Office 2007 or 2010 (Word, Powerpoint, Excel). NOTE: while the student/home edition of

Office 2007/2010 includes Outlook, it does not have the ability to connect to our email server (Microsoft Exchange). Students will access their email via the Web. Apple computers: • English-language version of OS X Leopard or OS X Snow Leopard • Microsoft Office 2008 or 2011 for Mac (Word, Powerpoint, Excel). NOTE: while the student/home edition of Office 2008/2011 includes Entourage, it does not have the ability to connect to our email server (Microsoft Exchange). Students will access their email via the Web.

The Robert Parker Clapp Library Students go to the library to study, gather information, write papers, browse current magazines, work quietly in groups, and indulge in leisure reading. A professional librarian is always available to give individual attention to students’ questions as well as to teach research strategies to classes.

The library has 10 iMacs, 16 laptops, and wireless access. Computers are to be used only for academic or informational purposes during the academic day; academic needs have priority over recreational pursuits.

Loan Period Books and CDs circulate for a loan period of approximately three weeks; DVDs for one week. Students may take out an unlimited amount of books and CDs, unless others are also pursuing the same topic for a class; in that case, books are set aside in the library. Borrowers must return items if requested for class use or reserve.

Signing out DVDs is limited to three at a time.

Returns and Renewals Students are encouraged to renew material as needed.

This can be done in person or by email. An overdue notice is sent shortly before the book is due, and a fine of 10 cents a day is assessed for late items. If the book is not returned after the third notice (approximately one month later), the student is billed the replacement cost plus a

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non-refundable $10 processing fee per item. If the book is subsequently returned, the student is credited the cost of the book.

The timely return of library material is the responsibility of the individual to whom it was loaned. Students should not pass books on to others, but rather return them to the library to be signed out anew. Any questions about overdues should be directed to Mary Paige x3348.

Interlibrary Loan Although Williston’s collection is selected to amply provide resources for class assignments, interlibrary loan requests are sent out when needed. The library participates in the Western Massachusetts Regional Library System.

Conduct • Students are expected to behave considerately towards others by respecting the need for quiet of those who are studying.

• Students are encouraged to be environmentally conscious in their use of paper.

• The library adheres to campus-wide expectations during evening study hall. Electronic devices may not be used to communicate with others during this

The Writing Center is located in The McGoun Room, upstairs in the library, where students may drop in or make appointments for assistance with their writing. The center is open during most of the class day and again during evening study hall. The McGoun Room is also available for group projects and tutoring.

Student Services The Birch Dining Commons at Ford Hall has many personal choices for dining. Attendance at all buffet-style meals is recommended but optional. Dress in the dining hall is either academic day dress during weekdays or casual at other times, but students may not wear hats, pajamas, or other attire that does not conform to dress standards.

The Birch Dining Commons menu is available on WillyNet under Quicklinks and is updated weekly. allergens

Student Center The Student Center, located in the lower level of the Reed Campus Center, contains the StuBop snack bar, student

Incoming Mail: Mail is posted for all Upper School students in their assigned campus boxes at the Reed Campus Center. Delivery is at 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Note: The City of Easthampton’s post office has designated the location for student mail. Do not use “The Williston Northampton School” or student’s dorm name in the address.

Mail or packages should be addressed as follows: Student Name 40 Park Street # ___ (Fill in student’s box #) Easthampton, MA 01027 Outgoing Mail: Leaves from the switchboard at 9:15 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. weekdays only.

Check Cashing Students may cash personal checks at the Business Office or the Campus Store up to a limit of $50.00.

Checks can be cashed during normal Business Office hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. to noon on class Saturdays). In addition, students may wish to establish an account at one of the banks with offices located in Easthampton just a short walk from the school: Bank of America, www.bankofamerica.com; Easthampton Savings Bank, www.bankesb.com; or Florence Savings Bank, www.florencesavings.com.

Rules

2012-13 Student Handbook 27

Student Programs

Dining Services is aware of the concerns and seriousness of individuals with food allergies. Food items that contain nuts or nut products are always clearly labeled. Gluten-free items, lactose-free milk, and soymilk are available at each mealtime. Any student, faculty, or staff member who has a specific food allergy or dietary concern should contact Director of Dining Services Kevin Martin at (413) 529-3235.

Campus Mailboxes

Facilities/services

On several occasions during the year, special, formal dress dinners are served at which attendance is required for all boarders. During Family Weekends, Grandparents’ Day, Convocation, and other events, academic day dress code is required at all meals.

mailboxes, a television lounge, a game room, and day student lockers.

community Life

Birch Dining Hall

Residential Life

• Beverages in covered containers and light snacks are acceptable, with the understanding that recyclables and trash will be disposed of in the containers provided.

The Writing Center

Academics

time. All students sign in when they arrive, sign out at departure, and may not come and go in between.

Sammy Card and Button Bucks All students receive an ID (Sammy Card) during the opening days of school. More than just a student identification card, it features a prepaid spending account (Button Bucks), offering a safe and secure environment for students to make cashless purchases. The card can be used on campus at the Campus Store and the StuBop snack bar, in vending machines on campus, at the library, Health Services, and for events organized by the Student Activities Office. It is also welcome at a growing number of Easthampton businesses and at our online textbook vendor. Parents have the option to set up a recurring allowance for their child using a Visa or MasterCard account to automatically replenish funds.

Parents and students have 24/7 online access to their Button Bucks account by registering at the Button Bucks Cardholder Account Center. Please visit www.williston. com/sammycard for more information.

Lost and Found Lost and found items are left at the Student Activities

Office or at the switchboard in the Schoolhouse. Please note: school insurance covers only school-owned property, not personal possessions. While the school makes every effort to provide effective security for the Williston community, all personal possessions in dorm rooms, locker rooms, storage rooms, etc. are the student’s responsibility at all times. Parents should discuss this responsibility with their son/daughter.

Losses of personal possessions while away at school are normally covered under standard homeowners and tenants insurance policies; parents may wish to confirm this and request any documentation needed for filing claims from their insurance agents.

BookStore Located in the Reed Campus Center, the Campus Store sells academic supplies, clothing, personal items, and gifts. Textbooks are available through our online vendor.

The online store at www.williston.com/store has a link for ordering books. This site may also be used to sell back used books at the end of the year.

Security Id Cards

Campus Security

More than just an identification card, the Sammy Card features a prepaid spending account—Button Bucks—for students to make cashless purchases on and off campus. If the card is damaged or destroyed, the student is responsible for replacing the card via the Business Office for a $25 replacement fee.

Williston takes the safety of its students and the community very seriously. There are systems in place in the event of an emergency on campus, and regular drills to esure all those on campus are aware of the procedures. While school is in session there is 24-hour security coverage.

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sTudent Programs

1. Afternoon Program............................................................................................ pg. 30 2. Fine Arts Intensives........................................................................................... pg. 30 3. Athletics Program.............................................................................................. pg. 30 4. Work Program.................................................................................................... pg. 31

2012-13 Student Handbook 29

Afternoon Program The Afternoon Program is an integral part of the Williston experience. All Upper School students, boarding and day, are required to be involved in the program each trimester.

Depending upon their grade level, students choose either group or independent options. Examples of group options include competitive athletics, dance, technical theater, and winter drama production. Independent options provide opportunities for students to pursue activities such as fine or performing arts intensives. In recognition of the importance of physical education, all group and independent options include an exercise component. Here is a review of the expectations for the various grade levels: •

11th and 12th grade – minimum of one group option

•

9th and 10th grade – minimum of two group options

•

8th grade – must participate for two trimesters in two different group options

•

7th grade – no required participation

It should be noted that all new Upper School students must choose a group option in the fall.

Students wishing to pursue any special project or exemption, including an outside sport, sport specialization, academic- or art-related endeavor, or any other type of project must apply to the Special Project Committee at least one week prior to the start of an Afternoon Program trimester. Guidelines and/or applications to pursue any special project or exemption are available on WillyNet.

The Fine and Performing Arts Intensive Program The Fine and Performing Arts Intensive Program exists to provide opportunities and support for the serious musician, visual artist, or theater technician.

In instances of demonstrated commitment, a student may opt to spend one term engaged in arts activities in lieu of afterschool sports. These activities include:

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2012-13 Student Handbook

Dance Ensemble Students have opportunities to choreograph and perform in a variety of dance styles for two major dance productions each year.

Teller Chorus Teller Chorus is a repertory choral ensemble which rehearses and performs vocal/choral music written for mixed (female and male) voices.

The Williston Theatre Ensemble Opportunities to act or work in a variety of backstage capacities are available. Studen’t perform three major productions a year for the public.

Private Instruction Private instruction in voice and instrumental music is available for additional hourly fees. Regular lessons and practice sessions are expected.

Athletics Program In keeping with the school’s mission, the Athletic Department seeks to instill in students purpose, passion and integrity. Sports are an integral part of Williston life, whether a student is a member of one of the numerous teams competing interscholastically or participates in something of a more recreational nature. Students are encouraged to participate in a minimum of one season of interscholastic athletics each school year.

The associate athletic director coordinates and oversees the Afternoon Program signup each season. Students are encouraged to try new sports, and they have the opportunity to change sports within the first three weeks of each season. After this period of time, students are expected to remain committed to their program for the remainder of the season. The school requires that every student attend all weekend practices and games.

Upper School students may elect to apply for a one-

Athletic Clothing and Equipment

All new Williston students are expected to purchase a Williston travel suit at registration. This all-school travel suit is used for various purposes but primarily when members of teams are off-campus at contests.

The cost of this suit is $115. Because of the nature of three of our afternoon offerings (skiing, golf, horseback riding, and crew) that operate at facilities outside of Williston, participation in these specific programs requires an additional expense. It should be noted that when it is necessary for teams to stay overnight in hotels during team trips, students will be charged to help cover the expense.

Work Program The Williston work program gives students responsibility and encourages them to take pride in their school and surrounding communities. Each student at Williston is required to participate in the work program. Ninth and tenth graders will serve for the equivalent of one class period per week for two trimesters. Eleventh and twelfth graders will serve for one trimester. Work assignments involve maintaining commonly used areas, such as common rooms, or assisting in service functions in the library, dining hall, Admissions or other areas of the school. The assistant dean of students coordinates the program.

2012-13 Student Handbook 31

Rules

Each student is responsible (at cost of replacement) for all items of clothing and equipment issued to him or her by the Athletic Department. Clothing and equipment is to be returned in a condition similar to when it was issued, taking into consideration normal wear. Cutting the sleeves off a jersey would not constitute normal wear and players would be charged for a new item. The school cannot assume responsibility for missing articles that are

Additional Expenses

Student Programs

Commitment is an important aspect of all students’ involvement in the Afternoon Program. The school recognizes that students will miss games and practices due to illness, religious holidays, etc. but expects that all parents will appreciate what we are trying to accomplish and be supportive of our efforts in this regard. Leaving school early on a long weekend, and missing a commitment, is considered a serious breach.

At the beginning of each week, the Athletic Department will publish (and post on the bulletin board outside of the cage) a copy of the schedule of events noting time of contests, meal times, departure time, methods of transportation, estimated time of return, etc. All of this information, including directions to all games, is available on the school’s website.

Facilities/services

Commitment

Game Day Information

community Life

The school understands that it is inevitable that some students may pursue interests off-campus, athletic and otherwise, during the school year. In general, it is school policy that students must first meet their commitment to the Williston Afternoon Program. Having said this, the school recognizes that there will be the occasional conflict. In such cases, it is critical that communication take place between students and their Williston Afternoon Program leader (coach, teacher) to avoid conflicts when possible. Questions regarding this can be directed to the director of athletics.

The following protective equipment is supplied: football equipment; hockey equipment with the exception of gloves and elbow pads; and lacrosse/field hockey equipment with the exception of gloves, arm pads, and goggles. The school does not supply footwear.

Residential Life

Outside Endeavors

left in lockers; students must keep their lockers secured at all times. Uniforms need to be returned on the day of a contest so they can be cleaned.

Academics

trimester waiver to participate in an athletic offering outside of the regular afternoon program. These would include either pursuing a sport that Williston does not offer off-campus in a formal program (examples include crew through Northampton Youth and Community Rowing, gymnastics, and figure skating) or pursuing a sport specialization (examples include spring soccer, fall baseball). Regarding the sport specialization option, it is important to note the school does not encourage students to specialize at Williston but rather to have a variety of athletic experiences. Over the years, our most talented individuals have thrived on maintaining such diversity in their athletic involvement. That said, truly exceptional students will be considered for a single trimester waiver.

Applications and further details may be found on WillyNet.

1. Major School Rules.............................................................................................pg. 33 2. Minor School Rules............................................................................................pg. 37 3. Academic Honesty............................................................................................. pg. 38 4. Dress Code......................................................................................................... pg. 39 5. Units................................................................................................................... pg. 39 6. Disciplinary Terms and Process.......................................................................pg. 42

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Rules at Williston

Community Expectations and School Rules The Williston Northampton School’s values of respect for self and others, responsibility and trust, and honesty and integrity, inform the daily life of the school and all of its members. Students may be subject to discipline for misconduct which is, or may be, disruptive of the educational process, interferes with the work of the school, is contrary to the mission of the school, impinges on the rights of other students, employees, or members of the school community, or has a direct or immediate effect on the discipline or the general welfare of the school, even if such conduct takes place off-campus, during non-school hours, or on breaks from school.

Such conduct will be evaluated at the sole discretion of the school, and the school reserves the right to deviate from the regular disciplinary process as may be deemed necessary under the circumstances.

Student behavior off campus—whether a day student or boarder, under any type of permission or during vacations—is subject to disciplinary review. The school is well respected in Easthampton and the surrounding communities, and those who conduct themselves in ways that diminish this reputation will be held accountable.

Williston is committed to the physical and emotional well-being of every student, and the rules that follow reflect our understanding of adolescents, their need for support and education, and the necessity of clear guidelines that govern behavior.

Major School Rules Students are expected to be cognizant of the major school rules and refrain from the conduct prohibited by these rules. Students who violate a major rule may expect to be placed on probation and may also be suspended, separated, or dismissed from the school. The school reserves the right to raise at any school meeting any issue of discipline regarding a student for the purpose of furthering the educational and learning exposure of students and the school community overall.

All of the following are considered major rule violations: 1. Hazing, Harassing, Bullying or Otherwise Harming Others Deliberately harassing, hazing, or bullying another person or engaging in any other conduct that may be physically threatening or harmful in any manner is strictly prohibited. Accordingly, any such conduct— through direct means (e.g., face-to-face verbal or physical conduct) or indirect means (e.g., writings or electronic expression via cell phone or the internet)—will be subject to discipline. In addition, any such conduct will be subject to discipline regardless of its form. Examples of possible forms include, but are not limited to: verbal acts and name-calling, physical acts and gestures, graphic and written statements, email, text or voice messages, audio recordings, visual images, and postings via social media.

2012-13 Student Handbook 33

Harming or Threatening Others

Students must never resort to physical confrontation or threats of harm to resolve their differences. Fighting, which includes the throwing of punches or a serious physical struggle, will not be tolerated. Likewise, threatening another will not be tolerated. Threatening includes any behavior which purposely places or attempts to place another in fear of imminent bodily injury of physical contact.

Hazing

Hazing is a violation of the Massachusetts Anti-Hazing law. (See full text of the statute at Appendix I.) Hazing is defined as any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, which endangers the physical or mental health of any person. Such conduct includes whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to affect the physical health or safety of any person or subject them to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation. Consent of the person being subjected to the conduct is not a defense to a charge of hazing.

Harassment

The overriding factor in sexual harassment is that the offending behavior is uninvited and/or unwanted. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, which can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Thus, sexual harassment can include conduct such as: touching or grabbing of a sexual nature; non-consensual sexual contact; making sexual comments, jokes, or gestures; writing graffiti or displaying or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures, or written materials; calling someone sexually charged names; spreading sexual rumors; rating students on sexual activity or performance; sexual innuendo, looks, or stalking; or circulating, showing, or creating e-mails or Web sites of a sexual nature.

Bullying

Bullying is a crime prohibited by Massachusetts law. All students have the right to attend a school free of bullying.

Massachusetts law defines “bullying” broadly as the severe or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of:

Harassment is defined as unwelcome verbal or physical conduct based upon race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, religion, or disability, when such conduct:

• causing physical or emotional harm to the other student or damage to the other student’s property;

• has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with the individual’s educational performance; • creates or has the intention of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment; or • unreasonably interferes with or limits one’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity.

Harassment does not have to include intent to harm, be directed at a specific target, or involve repeated incidents.

Harassment creates a hostile environment when the conduct is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to interfere with or limit a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or opportunities offered by the school.

• creating a hostile environment at school for the other student;

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is a form of harassment that can sometimes be difficult to identify and distinguish.

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2012-13 Student Handbook

• placing the other student in reasonable fear of harm to himself/herself or of damage to his or her property;

• infringing on the rights of the other student at school; or • materially and substantially disrupting the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

“Cyber-bullying,” defined as bullying undertaken through the use of technology or any electronic means, is explicitly prohibited under the law. (Please refer to the school’s Acceptable Use Policy, which can be found on WillyNet.) The proscription against bullying extends beyond school grounds to school-sponsored and school-related activities, functions and programs; school bus stops; school buses and other vehicles owned, leased, or used by the school; and school computers and other technologies.

Bullying at a location or function that is not schoolrelated, or via technology or an electronic device that is not

Reporting Procedure for Complaints of Harassment, Hazing, Bullying, or Harm to Others

Possession and/or Use

Possession and/or use of illegal or mood altering drugs, or possession and/or use of drug apparatus or the possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. In addition, the use of inhalants (not medically prescribed), or the use or possession of any prescribed drug which is “psychoactive” or legally considered a Class 2 Controlled Substance (such as Ritalin or Dexedrine) will be treated disciplinarily as an “illegal drug” when a student has not followed all Health Services/school policies and procedures in obtaining and possessing it.

Health Services Response

If a student is confronted with concerns about being under the influence of drugs or alcohol and there is reasonable suspicion of use premised upon his or her behavior or the circumstances, the school reserves the right to test the student for alcohol and other drugs with an immediate drug screen or test at Health Services. The test will be administered by the nurse on duty and/or the dean on duty and the results may be available in minutes for alcohol but longer for other substances. The school makes no distinction between alcoholic beverages and beverages which are imitations of alcoholic beverages.

Disciplinary Response

Massachusetts laws prohibit the purchase, possession, receipt, or use of illegal drugs, and the drinking age in Massachusetts is 21. Students who break these rules are in violation of state laws as well as school policy. When a student is placed on probation for drug or alcohol use or possession, the following will usually occur: 1. an off-campus suspension, usually one week;

Student Programs

2. requirement of a professional assessment by a certified drug and alcohol evaluator within two weeks of the suspension (costs for evaluation and testing will be borne by the family);

Rules

The investigation will proceed as expeditiously as possible. Interviews will be conducted with the involved parties, making every effort to preserve the privacy and confidentiality of all parties. When the investigation is complete, the school will, to the extent appropriate, inform the parties of the outcome. The totality of the circumstances, such as nature, context, intensity, persistence, and repetition of the behavior, as well as the nature of the relationship between the parties involved will be considered in determining an appropriate response. If it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, disciplinary action up to and including dismissal may be imposed.

2. Possessing or Using Drugs or Alcohol

Facilities/services

Reports must include details of the alleged incident, names of the persons involved and witnesses, and any supporting documentation or materials. Reports of student-to-student conduct will be investigated and acted upon by the dean of students; reports involving students and adults will be investigated and acted upon by the school’s Crisis Management Team. The school is required to report allegations that could be considered a violation of criminal law or covered by mandatory reporting obligations.

Students, and others who make reports on behalf of a student, are protected from retaliation for making good faith complaints or participating in the investigation of a complaint. Any person with a concern that he/she is being retaliated against should bring it to the attention of the above-named persons.

community Life

The physical and emotional safety of our students is our highest priority. A student who feels that he or she may have been the subject of harassment, hazing, or bullying, or any other conduct that may be physically threatening or harmful, whether from another student or an adult, should report the alleged incident immediately to his or her advisor, the dean of students, director of health services, school counselor, or any other trusted adult in the community. Other students, parents, employees, and anyone else who is aware of any harassing, hazing, or bullying behavior targeting a student should also notify the above named persons.

Retaliation

Residential Life

The Williston Anti-Bullying plan is published at williston.com.

Academics

owned, leased, or used by the school, is also prohibited if the bullying creates a hostile environment for the victim while he or she is at school. Thus, a student who sends a harassing text message to another student will be considered to have engaged in bullying if the recipient of the text message is placed in reasonable fear of physical harm while at school, even if the message was sent and received outside of school hours and off school property.

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3. requirement to abide by the terms of the no-use contract and explicit permission for periodic drug testing for a year (the student may not return to school until this has been signed); and 4. one week of room confinement following return from suspension.

Students who sell drugs or alcohol or who purchase or procure them for other students can expect to be dismissed on first offense.

3. Endangering Oneself or Others Any behavior or situation which endangers oneself or others and is deemed serious enough by faculty, administration, and/or the Discipline Committee, may also be considered a major school rule violation.

Open flame violation

The unauthorized burning of any substance and/or igniting of an object, including tobacco and incense, in any school building is prohibited. This presents an extreme risk to both occupants and buildings. Smoking of any substance by a student in any school building is considered a major rule violation.

Safety violation

Tampering with any alarm, sprinkler system, smoke detector, or fire extinguisher is prohibited. Should any fire extinguisher in a dormitory be emptied needlessly and the person doing so not be identified, each resident of that dormitory will be assessed a minimum of a $10.00 fine.

Possession of dangerous weapons

Possession or use of fireworks (including firecrackers), a firearm, a pellet gun, a knife, or any other dangerous weapon that threatens the safety of the community is a major school violation. Any knife other than a pocket or penknife may be considered a dangerous weapon.

Switchblades and double-edged knives and fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts.

Damaging property

Willfully damaging the property of another person or of the school is a major school violation. The responsibility for property damage is placed on the student, and the policy is as follows: 1. Damage to anything in a student room will be the responsibility of the occupant(s) unless the occupant can identify the person responsible.

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2. Damage to common rooms, stairwells, or other areas that are not specifically assignable to a floor will be charged to all residents of the dormitory.

3. Damage to property on a specific floor will be charged to all residents living on the floor.

4. When the damage to property other than a room cannot be specifically attributed to an individual, the floor or dormitory will receive a notice of the charge.

Use of projectiles

Propelling any projectile at a motor vehicle, an unwilling or unsuspecting person, or a building, so as to endanger another is considered reckless behavior and is a major school violation.

Sexual behavior and contact

Sexual behavior specifically includes intimate sexual contact between adolescents. The responsibility of the school both on campus and when students are under the jurisdiction of the school necessitates that the school prohibit such intimate contact. Such behavior will result in disciplinary action.

In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, it is illegal for any individual to have sexual intercourse with a student under 16 years of age. As such, students under the age of 16 may not legally consent to intimate sexual contact and the school is obligated to report any violation of the law to the Department of Children and Families. The school will also notify parents of all students involved in such contact.

Leaving after check in

Leaving the dormitory at any time after checking in for the night and before 6:00 a.m., except in an emergency or with special permission, is a major school violation.

Violating parietal visitation

Boys and girls are permitted to visit in each other’s dormitory rooms during certain hours, with the consent and supervision of the dormitory faculty. Visiting hours are from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on (Green Week) Friday and Saturday evenings, and 7:30 p.m. to 7:50 p.m. (before study hall) on school nights. If a student or a non-student is in the dorm room of a member of the opposite sex during visiting hours, but has not been checked in by the faculty member on dormitory duty, any students involved will be considered in violation of this major rule.

Unauthorized motor vehicles

Boarding students cannot have unauthorized motor

5. Failing to Act with Honesty or Integrity

The accumulation of eight attendance units in a given trimester or nine decorum units (or five decorum units of a similar act) during the course of the year is a major violation. For information about units, see page 39.

Dishonesty

Stealing

Being in the presence of a major school rule violation

Students who provide the space for drug, alcohol, or tobacco abuse will be held accountable under the “in the presence of” rule. Incidents not specifically covered by the rules in the handbook but falling under the general code of conduct as outlined in the school’s philosophy and rules will be dealt with as the school deems appropriate.

The Dean’s Office is responsible and authorized to deal with violations of the following rules, which includes overseeing the accounting of attendance and decorum units.

1. Tobacco use Williston is a tobacco-free campus. Due to the overwhelming evidence as to the negative effects and addictive nature of tobacco, the school does not allow its use by students. Students under the school’s jurisdiction may not possess, smoke or chew tobacco products of any kind. The first tobacco violation accrues a decorum unit and in addition, includes an intervention with Health Services and the Dean’s Office. Subsequent violations accrue decorum units and continued interaction with Health Services.

Use of nicotine dispensing medications is an option that may be available under the supervision of Health Services.

More information about the intervention process is available from Health Services or the Dean’s Office.

2. Use of cell phones Use of cell phones or other electronic devices as phones is not permitted at any time in any of the academic buildings or in the Birch Dining Commons, the Phillips Stevens Chapel, or the Clapp Library. Use of such mobile devices to retrieve or send information is allowed in the Birch Dining Commons and, with faculty permission, in classrooms. These items may be used in the Reed Center on the lower levels, and in dormitories (except when specifically prohibited) at any time.

Student Programs

When a student is found in the presence of a major school rule violation, he or she will receive similar consequences unless there are particular, extenuating circumstances. Responsibility to avoid such a situation rests with the student. As in all circumstances, a student’s integrity is a prime concern. Boarding students are expected to follow reasonable precautions (such as locking their rooms and not lending out their key or key card) to prevent the use of their rooms by other students for purposes of breaking school rules.

Minor School Rules

Facilities/services

Stealing is in direct conflict with the Williston core value of respect for self and others and is destructive to community trust. Theft includes but is not limited to: use or possession of stolen property, use or possession of unauthorized keys, swipe cards, credit cards or Sammy cards, the destruction of the property of others or community property, or willfully removing material from the library without having signed it out.

Excessive absences

community Life

Dishonesty is unacceptable both within the formal disciplinary process and in relations between students and adults in the community. Dishonesty includes, but is not limited to: lying, deceitful behavior, academic dishonesty such as cheating and plagiarism, falsifying an overnight sign-out slip or going elsewhere than what is written, forgery, possession of false identification, or signing onto to someone else’s email without permission.

Any public demonstration of illegal or unacceptable behavior that places the student and/or the school in an unfavorable light is a major school violation. This would include, but is not limited to, Web-based publications or police reports.

Residential Life

Conduct unbecoming a Williston student

Academics

vehicles on campus and/or in the greater Easthampton area. Boarding students may NOT use or have access to motor vehicles while at school because of security, safety, and space availability. Any extenuating circumstances that would necessitate a boarding student’s motor vehicle being on or near campus must be approved by the dean of students without exception.

Rules

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3. Late night computer use Videos, movies, and console or computer gaming are not permitted after the final check in on school nights (10:30 or 11:00 p.m.) or after midnight on weekends. After the last check-ins of the night, the same rules apply to use of cell phones for communication.

4. Required attendance Attendance is expected at all scheduled classes, examinations, assemblies, athletic commitments, college counseling appointments, etc. A student may be excused for reasons of illness or injury, but the student must go to Health Services as soon as possible to obtain this permission and, under most circumstances, will not be excused after the fact. When the school nurse or physician has determined that a student is well enough, the student is required to be in attendance at school activities.

Students should understand that they must attend at least 50 percent of their classes if they expect to participate in athletic or extracurricular activities later in the day. Health Services staff, coaches, deans, and activities directors will not allow students to participate in after-school or evening activities if they have missed a significant part of the school day.

5. Day student vehicle policies Day students who drive a car to school must register the car with the Dean’s Office. Cars may not be moved during the school day until the student leaves to go home for the night. Any exceptions to this policy must receive permission from the Dean’s Office or the dean on duty.

Cars must be parked in the assigned areas, as follows: seniors park in the area behind Scott Hall; juniors and sophomores park in the lot behind John Wright House.

Students may NOT drive on or park in the Main Street campus area or park in the center quad at any time.

Violations of these rules will result in decorum units and if decorum units continue to accrue, it will result in the loss of driving privileges.

During the academic week, boarding students may only ride in a day student’s vehicle after completion of their daily commitments, including participation in the afternoon program, and must secure the permission from the Dean’s Office or the dean on duty to do so. In addition, boarders may ride in a car only in accordance with their authorized parental permissions. Please review the section on day travel in community life for further procedures.

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Academic Honesty As an academic institution, we value academic honesty and expect a student’s work to be his or her own. While students may find technical aspects of academic source citation and plagiarism confusing, it is their responsibility to seek assistance to correct misunderstanding and to represent their use of print, electronic, and human resources accurately. The improper giving or receiving of academic information will be considered by the school to be cheating.

Plagiarism Plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty. Using someone else’s ideas, words, phrases, and/or designs without giving credit is prohibited. All work turned in (be it written, oral, artistic, or programmed for a computer) is to be the student’s own, except where otherwise credited. Students are sometimes encouraged to make references to other works, but these references (including individual ideas, words, phrases, and/or designs) must be credited properly. Material used from Internet sites must be credited in the same way as any other reference source. The use of translation websites is prohibited by the Language Department. Any outside help (sources, proofreading, typing, or copying by another) that a student has used in preparation for a written, oral, or artistic work should be noted as such BEFORE turning it in for a mark.

Similarly, any questions that a student might have about plagiarism should be asked BEFORE a particular work is turned in to be graded.

Cheating Cheating is not tolerated. Students who give or receive information or otherwise cheat on quizzes, tests, or exams will be disciplined and are subject to suspension or separation from the school.

Ethics of Computer Use Any student who writes and/or uses a program for deceitful, malicious, or illegitimate intent or effect will be considered to be in violation of a major school rule.

Cheating or Plagiarizing: Consequences A ninth or tenth grader

First Offense: The student meets with the academic dean, the teacher, and the advisor. The assignment receives a grade of zero and a written warning is sent to the student and his or her parents.

First Offense: In addition to the response above for ninth and tenth graders, the student is placed on probation. As in all serious disciplinary issues, any student may request that the Discipline Committee hear the case.

Dress Code

Academic day dress is worn throughout the campus (including the Reed Campus Center) from 8:20 a.m.3:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: until 12:25 p.m. on Wednesdays and on class Saturdays.

The Middle School academic day ends at 3:00 p.m. on all days except Wednesdays.

Male specific

Female specific

Girls are permitted to wear skirts, dresses, or shorts, but these must be no shorter than mid-thigh. Shirts with tails, such as dress oxfords, must be tucked in.

Dress shirts, turtlenecks, or tunics specifically meant to be untucked may be as long as one’s midriff and back are not exposed, and any shirt should not extend more than four inches below the waist. No more than two top buttons may be unbuttoned.

• Shirts with large or inappropriate print • T-shirts and tank tops • Coats or jackets designed for outdoor use worn indoors to cover unacceptable dress • Hats or head coverings, including headbands and bandannas, in buildings other than dormitories and the Athletic Center.

• Strapless dresses, spaghetti strap dresses/tops • Tube tops and midriff-baring tops • Scoop neck and V-neck tops that are revealing Student Dress After the Academic Day At times other than the academic day, the dress code is relaxed, and sweatshirts and clean athletic-style clothing may be worn. However, during all times, no clothing may be worn which advertises anything inconsistent with school rules (for example, alcohol) and underwear may not be visible.

Formal Clothing Formal or dress clothing is required for formal dinners and for formal school gatherings, many athletic trips, and some off-campus excursions. Dress clothing for boys means suits or sport jackets with dress slacks, dress shirts and ties (or turtlenecks), and shoes and socks. Dress clothing for girls means dresses, blouses with pants or skirts, and shoes. Jeans and sneakers are considered informal clothing and are inappropriate for any student on these occasions.

Units

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Rules

At Williston, our system of student accountability for upholding daily expectations of attendance and behavior are based on units. There are two distinct tracks for accumulating unit points: attendance and decorum.

While accumulating a certain number of units in either

Student Programs

Boys must wear collared shirts (dress or polo) or turtlenecks. All shirts must be tucked in. No more than two top buttons may be unbuttoned. Belts must be worn.

• Cargo, athletic, military camouflage, drawstring, or carpenter style pants or shorts

Facilities/services

Student Dress During the Academic Day

• No exposed undergarments (underwear or bra straps)

community Life

The dress code is based on common sense, moderation, and respect for self and others. Our expectation is that all clothing be modest, neat, clean, in good repair, and fit properly. When a student is in doubt about whether a particular outfit or piece of clothing is in dress code, it is the student’s responsibility to get an opinion from the Dean’s Office before wearing it. Students who are not in dress code will NOT be admitted to class and will be asked to return to their dorm or locker to change before being admitted into class. While away from the classroom, they will be responsible for all missed academic work and will not be given additional time on assessments. They will also receive a decorum unit.

• Flip-flops and sports sandals

Residential Life

The Academic Dean is responsible for administering consequences for violations of academic honesty.

The following are not permitted: • Sweatshirts and/or items made of sweatshirt material

Academics

An eleventh or twelfth grader

type will yield consequences, the types of units are accounted for separately. Students’ attendance units will be cleared to zero at the start of each trimester. However, students will be held accountable to serve whatever consequences were assigned to them for the previous term if not already completed.

Due to the nature of decorum units, they accumulate during the course of the year and do not reset at the beginning of each trimester.

significant family commitments, etc., parents should call the Dean’s Office to notify the school of the planned absence well in advance of its occurrence. The student should request a special absence form (blue sheet) from the Dean’s Office and bring it to each teacher, coach, and advisor for signature and to discuss what they will be missing due to the absence and necessary makeup work timetables. When the form is complete the student should submit the blue sheet to the Dean’s Office for approval.

Attendance Units

Day Students Absences

We take meeting commitments very seriously at Williston.

For any class from which a student has an unexcused absence, the student will receive a zero for any work due or completed during that class.

If a day student is unable to attend school, a parent or guardian should telephone the Dean’s Office by 8:30 a.m. to advise the school of the absence. We encourage students and parents to arrange medical and other appointments after school hours, when possible. If a student will miss class due to an appointment, a phone call to the Dean’s Office prior to its occurrence is expected and appreciated.

Classes and School Functions

Student attendance at classes and all school functions, including assemblies, athletics, Health Services workshops, sit-down meals, work programs, college counseling appointments, and Williston+ events is required. Failure to attend scheduled commitments will result in specific consequences that will include academic penalties for classroom absences. The school reserves the right to deny academic credit to a student who misses more than 20 percent of class meetings for any individual course in a trimester.

Students accumulate one attendance unit for an unexcused absence to any school commitment or upon every third lateness to a school commitment. These commitments include, but are not limited to: academic classes, athletic practices and contests, assemblies, and other specified required events. Faculty will notify the Dean’s Office of all absences and the Dean’s Office will notify students and their advisors of unexcused attendance units. Students are responsible for making up all academic work that is missed during an absence.

Weekends and Vacations

Early departures for weekends or vacations, or late return that results in missed commitments, are strongly discouraged and may be considered unexcused. Please refer to page 16 for dates and times of vacation departures and returns. All flights and other travel plans should be made accordingly.

Planned Absences

For any planned absences such as college visits,

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Medical Excuses

During the school day, any student who is feeling ill should go to Health Services; medical excuses from class and other commitments are issued only from Health Services. See pg. 22 for further procedures.

Make Up Work

Students must take responsibility for work missed because of absences. Getting class notes from classmates and assignments from teachers is the student’s responsibility.

Students should be fully prepared for the next class, including taking quizzes or tests and handing in papers, unless there have been multiple class absences for illness or other extenuating circumstances that would require extra help from the teacher.

Consequences for Attendance Units • 3-4 units

If a student accumulates three and/or four attendance units in a given term, they will meet with the assistant dean of students and be placed on restriction for the upcoming Saturday evening.

• 5 units

If a student accumulates a fifth attendance unit in a given term, they will be placed on restriction for Saturday night and Sunday and parents will be notified. Day students will be expected to leave campus following their last commitment on Saturday and not return until Monday morning.

Consequences for Decorum Units In most situations, the consequence assessed to the student as a result of a decorum unit is directly related to the type of violation or behavior and may result in a warning, loss of use, loss of privileges or permissions, restrictions, work hours, room confinement, restriction, or some combination of the above.

If a student accumulates a seventh attendance unit in a given term, they will meet with the dean of students and serve the same consequence as for the sixth unit (weekend restriction and academic room confinement.)

In addition, they will do one day of clipboarding on the weekend, and parents will be notified.

The severity of the consequence assigned will increase as the number of units accrue and will be decided by the Dean’s Office. It is our hope that through conversation and consequences, the cited behavior will be corrected. However, if that is not the case, the following are general guidelines in addition to the above-mentioned consequences:

• 8 units

• 2-4 units

If a student accumulates an eighth attendance unit in a given term, they will be issued a dean’s warning, their parents will be notified, they will meet with the dean of students, and they may meet with the Disciplinary Committee. The dean of students has discretion to assign work hours, clipboarding, and limit a student’s permissions.

If a student accrues two decorum units based on similar acts, or four total decorum units in a given school year, they will meet with the assistant dean of students and be placed on restriction for the upcoming Saturday night and Sunday. Day students will be expected to leave campus following their last commitment on Saturday and not return until Monday morning. For the next academic week, they will be expected to leave campus daily at 6:00 p.m. and not return until the following morning for classes. Parents will be notified.

Facilities/services

• 4-7 units

Student Programs

community Life

• 7 units

Faculty are expected to engage in a conversation with the student about the violation at the time of the offense and prior to notifying the Dean’s Office of such offense.

Residential Life

If a student accumulates a sixth attendance unit in a given term, they will meet with the assistant dean of students and parents will be notified. The student will be placed on restriction for the upcoming weekend and will serve a room confinement for the academic week.

Boarding students will return to their rooms at 7:30 p.m. each evening and remain there until 6:00 a.m. the next morning and lose all visitation privileges for the academic week. Day students will be expected to leave campus following their last commitment on Saturday and not return until Monday morning. In addition for the next academic week, they will be expected to leave campus daily at 6:00 p.m. and not return until the following morning for classes.

unauthorized area, failing to properly sign out during the academic day or on a day permission, upon every third room confinement issued in the dorm, and when conduct is deemed to be of an inappropriate nature.

Academics

• 6 units

Note: The school reserves the right to deny academic credit to a student who misses more than 20 percent of class meetings of any individual course in a trimester (see page 38).

Decorum Units Williston students are expected to maintain a level of decorum in speech, dress, and behavior that is illustrative of the community’s paired core values of respect for self and others, responsibility and trust, and honesty and integrity.

• 5-9 units

If a student accumulates five decorum units based on similar acts, or nine total decorum units during the school year, they will meet with the Discipline Committee

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Rules

Students accumulate decorum units for dress code violations, tobacco violations (see page 39), riding and/ or driving and other vehicle violations, disrespectful language or behavior, unauthorized use of an elevator, use of a cell phone or other electronic device in an

If a student accumulates four decorum units based on similar acts or seven total decorum points during the school year, they will be issued a dean’s warning, they will be restricted to campus for the upcoming weekend, they will be assigned to clipboarding, they will meet with the assistant dean of students, and the parents will be notified. If a student does not complete these obligations he or she may meet with the Disciplinary Committee.

and the dean of students has discretion to assign work hours and/or clipboarding in the interim. The Discipline Committee may recommend suspension, separation, dismissal and/or any other actions. The Discipline Committee decisions are recommendations to the head of school, who may accept, reject, or modify such decisions.

Students’ decorum units accumulate for the duration of the school year and do not reset at each trimester.

Disciplinary Terms and Process Consequence A disciplinary response by the dean of students that addresses the type of violation or behavior of the offense and may result in a warning, loss of use, loss of privileges or permissions, confiscation of an item for a specified period of time, work assignment, room confinement, restriction, or some combination of the above.

Reprimand An official reprimand may include a plan for weekly review of a student’s behavior until a satisfactory record of citizenship has been established. Parents will receive a copy of the reprimand.

Room Confinement Boarding students are to return to their dormitory at 7:30 p.m. on weeknights (7:00 p.m. on weekends), to check in with the dorm parent on duty, and to remain in their room until 6:00 a.m. the next morning. They are not allowed to have visitors in their room.

Restriction For boarding students, the student may not leave campus and is restricted to his or her room at 7:30 p.m. on weeknights and 7:00 p.m. on Saturday evenings and remains there until 6:00 a.m. the next morning. A restriction on the weekend limits a student’s ability to have an off-campus overnight and the student may not travel beyond campus boundaries for the weekend. For day students, they are expected to leave campus after athletics (by 6:00 p.m.) and not return until classes the next day. Weekend restrictions for day students preclude them from being involved with campus activities in the evening and restrict them from coming onto campus on Sunday or participating in weekend student activities. In 42

2012-13 Student Handbook

addition, they may not have a student sign out to their home when restricted. Failure to serve this penalty on the assigned weekend will result in an additional unit.

Clipboarding Both day and boarding students will remain on campus and check in with the dean on duty every hour on the hour from noon on Saturday until 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., boarders are to return to their dorms and continue serving restriction for the evening. Day students are to promptly leave campus and return home. On Sunday, students will resume check-ins with the dean on duty at 10:00 a.m. and continue hourly through 6:00 p.m. In addition, students may be assigned a work job that is to be completed during their first hour of clipboarding on Sunday.

Dean’s Warning A dean’s warning is a formal written warning issued by the dean of students that repetition of a specific behavior or set of behaviors will result in a more severe disciplinary action. A second dean’s warning for the same type of violation will be considered a second probationary offense and will merit a meeting with the Discipline Committee.

Probation Probation is a disciplinary action that results from specific behaviors and is the usual sanction for violating a major school rule on the first offense. For boarding students, it is accompanied by one week of room confinement and a weekend restriction. Day students may expect two weeks of restriction.

If the offense warrants suspension, the boarding student will begin the one-week cycle of room confinement and weekend restriction upon their return. When a student has been placed on probation, parents are often asked to come to campus to discuss the matter with the dean, the student’s advisor, and the student.

Violation of a major school rule while on probation generally results in one’s dismissal from school (see page 34). In addition, a student generally may not be placed on probation twice in the same school year. A second major rule violation usually results in separation or dismissal.

Suspension The student will be sent home for a specified period of time. Parents of a suspended student may be required

The student is sent home for the remainder of the academic year. Return is possible and requests for reinstatement are made to the head of school. Colleges to which the student applies will be notified of any separation that occurs during the senior year.

Dismissal

Students who have been separated or dismissed from Williston may not return to campus unless they are accompanied by their parents and have the written permission of the head of school, associate head of school, or dean of students.

Disciplinary Procedures for Major Rule Violations On the first offense, if the incident was not egregious and the student takes full responsibility for the action, the dean of students may determine the consequences to the offense for the student. Similarly, the school reserves the right to dismiss a student without a disciplinary hearing if it deems it most appropriate.

If a student receives two dean’s warnings as a result of either attendance or decorum units during a school year, the student will be placed on probation, receive a disciplinary response, and may meet with the Discipline Committee.

Discipline Committee A student charged with a major rule violation may meet with the Discipline Committee. The Discipline Committee is made up of faculty and student representatives and

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Rules

There may be options for students to make up academic work in the event of separation or dismissal. If the school allows the privilege of completion of academic work for credit, the student may take exams and receive regular

The school reserves the right to raise at any school meeting or assembly any issue of student discipline for the purpose of furthering the educational mission and learning environment for students and the school community.

Student Programs

Actions likely to result in separation or dismissal include: gross violations of personal or academic honor; theft; multiple, simultaneous or successive major or minor offenses; abusive language or actions toward person or property; and significant misconduct or disrespect for the rules and/or reputation of the school.

A student is not invited to return for the next school year.

The school reviews the citizenship of all students in June and reserves the right to deny continuation to any student whose behavior, attitude, or disciplinary record is judged by the faculty to be detrimental to the welfare of the school community, whether or not a specific school rule has been violated.

Facilities/services

While the school may offer a student who is separated or dismissed late in the academic year an opportunity to complete course work, this privilege is not given automatically and will be granted at the school’s discretion. The College Counseling Office will report disciplinary infractions during the senior year that result in suspensions, separations, and dismissals.

Non-continuation

community Life

The student is dismissed from school with no possibility for return into the community. The school reserves the right to suspend, separate, or dismiss students at any time for conduct that is unacceptable and detrimental to its program, or for conduct that violates the laws of Massachusetts, regardless as to whether or not a specific rule has been violated, whether actions or events occurred on or off campus, or whether they were committed by boarding or day students.

If the separation occurs for any substantial length of time before the trimester closes, all assigned tests, papers, and exams must be completed for credit to be granted.

Evaluation in that case will be on a pass/fail basis, and the student’s transcript will show only numerical grades earned before he or she left the school. The teacher will be asked to evaluate all assigned work on a pass/fail basis to determine whether credit should be granted.

Residential Life

Separation

numerical averages for the marking period only if the separation/dismissal occurs so close to the end of the trimester that the only remaining graded work for the trimester is the exam(s).

Academics

to return to school with their child for a meeting with the dean, the student’s advisor, and the student. When a student is suspended, he or she bears the burden and responsibility for obtaining all missed assignments and completing them. Major papers due during a suspension must be submitted on time.

chaired by the associate head. Generally, students are accompanied by their advisors to Discipline Committee hearings. Parents do not attend committee hearings.

Students will usually meet with the Discipline Committee in the following situations: 1) for a first offense when the facts are in question; 2)for a second offense in the same year; 3) for a third offense within two years; 4) for a third offense in three consecutive years; 5) for a situation that might result in dismissal on a first offense, such as an egregious violation of school rules.

A student who commits a second probationary offense after faculty intervention, but prior to the meeting of the Disciplinary Committee for the first offense, will be subject to separation or dismissal. Moreover, students on probation are subject to review at the end of the year, where the issue of non- continuance or continuance at the school will be determined.

A student whose actions necessitate a second meeting of the Discipline Committee in the same academic year should expect separation or dismissal as the outcome.

When seniors are placed on probation in the third trimester, the school reserves the right to deny the privilege of participation in graduation ceremonies. This may result in a student not graduating and the diploma could be withheld.

In some cases, students will be afforded the opportunity to withdraw from school prior to a meeting with the Discipline Committee. However, once the meeting convenes, this option becomes unavailable to the student.

The decisions and recommendations of this committee are reviewed by the head of school, who makes the final decision on disciplinary matters.

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College Reporting Williston expects that its students will answer questions about disciplinary history honestly on college applications.

The College Counseling Office will answer truthfully any direct questions from colleges about students’ disciplinary history. If a student has ever been suspended or placed on disciplinary probation at Williston, or at a previous high school, he or she must address this with his or her college counselor. In addition, please understand that college counselors have an ongoing obligation to provide accurate information about students to colleges and will report changes in status that occur during senior year, including withdrawals from school.

With regard to discipline, counselors will report disciplinary infractions during the senior year that result in suspensions, separations, and dismissals. The College Counseling Office will provide information about the incident to colleges within fourteen (14) days. If the incident occurs prior to the mailing of application materials, notice will be provided along with the school letter of recommendation. While disciplinary matters are of a concern to colleges, the college counseling experience is that they understand that young people make mistakes. Admission committees are typically more concerned with the manner in which students respond to disciplinary sanctions than the actual event leading to the sanctions. A mature and graceful response to a discipline infraction can illustrate a student’s growth and development as a young adult.

Academics

Appendix Commonwealth of Massachusetts General laws 269:17, 18, 19 269:17 Hazing; organizing or participating; hazing defined.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action.

Section 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such

Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an attested acknowledgement stating that such group, team or organization has received a copy of this section and said sections seventeen

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communication the institution’s policies to its students. The board of regents and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report.

The Williston Northampton School Acceptable Use Policy for Computers, Network and Multi-Media “technical services”) to enrich the academic, residential, and professional experience of everyone in our community. At the same time, the school retains control over how these services are used. The use of these technical services and their related email,

voice mail, files, data, images, messages, audio and video (hereafter referred to as “content”) are subject to this Acceptable Use Policy which outlines the limitations that the School imposes on the use of technical services.

2012-13 Student Handbook 45

Rules

Because we recognize the important role that technology plays in education, Williston offers all students and employees access to its computers, data and telephony networks, and multimedia systems (hereafter referred to as

Student Programs

269:18 Failure to report hazing.

Section 19. Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team, or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams, or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations.

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.

Facilities/services

The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.

269:19 Copy of secs. 17-19; issuance to students and student groups, teams and organizations; report

and eighteen, that each of its member, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.

community Life

Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one, [sic] year, or both such fine and imprisonment.

person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars.

Residential Life

Massachusetts Hazing Law

Williston requires that all users of these technical services strictly follow the standards set forth in this document. Use of the School’s technical services is a privilege than can be revoked at any time for violation of these policies, whether in letter or spirit.

Disciplinary procedures and consequences are outlined in the Student and Employee Handbooks (amongst others, in sections covering Major Rule Violation determinations and resulting penalties, including probation, separation and/or dismissal).

may result in the loss of another’s work;

• Using POP and SMTP for mail purposes

• Creating or storing content that may reasonably be considered offensive such as sexual content, racial slurs, or other content that may offend someone on the basis of his or her age, gender, race, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, national origin, or disability;

• Peer-to-Peer software (Examples [but not limited to]: Limewire, WinMX)

The purpose of the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) is to ensure that the following goals are clearly communicated and continually maintained:

• Violating the rules of copyright by copying or transferring copyrighted material without proper authoization

• To ensure ethical and equitable use of the school’s technical services and content; • To provide safe, high-quality technical services and content for all users; • To present guidelines for the use of technical services and content by the Williston community; • To document those actions/behaviors that constitute violations to the AUP; • To describe the process of disciplinary recourse for AUP violations.

General Guidelines Access to the School’s technical services and content is limited to students and employees of the community who require technical services as part of their daily study, teaching, and/or work routines. All who use Williston’s technical services and its content agree to abide by the provisions of the AUP by default, including its confidentiality obligations, as well as applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Violations of the provisions within the AUP can range from revocation of privileges to state/federal prosecution.

In general, the proper use of Williston’s technical services and content support the goals of an academic community and are in direct support and protection of its members. In addition, proper use complies with all federal, state and local laws governing these technical services and content.

Misuse of Williston’s technical services and content includes, but is not limited to: • Creating or storing unlawful content through the of technical services; • Using abusive or otherwise objectionable language in either public or private content; • Knowingly using someone else’s password to access the network or other facilities or allowing someone else to use your password • Creating, storing or deleting content that

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2012-13 Student Handbook

• Not showing respect for the work done by others and altering or abusing someone else’s work in any way

• Creating or storing content that would be considered as harassment or bullying

by Massachusetts law (see pp.35-36 in the Student Handbook); • Creating or storing content that would represent an embarrassment to the school by virtue of the sender’s address or other means of identification, and would be harmful to the school; • Using technical services of its content for any inappropriate purpose including, but not limited to, providing billable services to others for profit, distribution of copyrighted materials, and/or accessing and distributing illicit/unacceptable content (e.g., pornography, hacker information).

• When unsure of an issue of proper use, you are strongly encouraged to seek advice from the administration, faculty or the Technical Team. Since no list of guidelines can be complete, let the Golden Rule guide your behavior. Treat the School, its people, its public spaces, its technical services and the work of others with respect.

• The Williston Northampton School’s practice is to respect privacy as a general principle unless serious violations are suspected. However, all technical services and content used by the Williston community are the property of the School.

Williston reserves the right to access or monitor all technical services and content with or without notice. This applies to employees as well as students.

Allowed Network Practices • Browsing the web • Network gaming within the Williston Northampton Network (including dedicated gaming machines [Playstation2/Xbox are examples]).

• Instant Messaging (Limited to AOL, Yahoo, MSN) • (Please note that sometimes these allowed items are disabled for a period of time [Example: during Study Hall hours]).

• Disallowed Network Practices

• Wireless access points, wireless routers • Sharing Internet access • Renaming of computer • Statically assigning an IP address to your computer • Identity theft • Removing / disabling of our centrally managed anti-virus product • Using any software product deemed a “hacking” utility or utilizing any network scanning / monitoring software • Using software to circumvent policies, procedures and network equipment in place that are used to enforce this Acceptable Usage Policy • Any other Internet service not listed in the Allowed category.

Web Filtering The Williston Northampton School utilizes a Web Filtering product and all Web traffic is monitored.

The following Categories of websites that are blocked include site that feature: • Adult • Nudity • Sexuality • Pornography • Computer hacking • Intolerance/extremism • Miscellaneous questionable • Profanity • Tasteless • Violence • Weapons/bombs • Copyright infringement • Anonymizer • Translators • Gambling If there is a website that is currently blocked that should not be, please send an email with your request (and an explanation why it should be unblocked) to Kathy Noble, Dean of Students (knoble@ williston.com).

Library Browsing Exception Web browsing in the Library is unfiltered, but you are still bound by the General Guidelines of this Acceptable Usage Policy.

Web sites that should not be accessed (according to the General Guidelines of this Acceptable Usage Policy) but require access for Academic research must first have the approval of a faculty member. Themost updated version of the AUP will be posted in WillyNet. Revised August 2012

For the Parents

1. Parents’ Association...........................................................................................pg. 48 2. School Communications...................................................................................pg. 48 3. Family Weekends and Visits.............................................................................pg. 48 4. Travel Arrangements.........................................................................................pg. 49 5. Supervised Home Visits....................................................................................pg. 49

2012-13 Student Handbook 47

Parents’ Association Williston’s Parents’ Association (PA) supports the school’s mission, programs, and activities for the benefit of all students. The PA facilitates communication and parent education, and encourages and coordinates volunteerism.

In addition, the organization fosters a spirit of inclusion, partnership, and cooperation among the entire school community. Every parent and guardian of a current student is a welcomed member of the Parents’ Association. PA meetings are held during the school year, including the Saturday of both fall and spring Family Weekends. In addition, the Parents’ Association hosts a discussion series with guest speakers scheduled throughout the year.

Parents’ Association President Shannon A. Greenwood '83 P’13, ’15, ’17...(413) 522-1728 sgreenwood@williston.com Director of Parent Relations Rachel Goldberg........................................ (413) 529-3308 rgoldberg@williston.com

School Communications The school makes every effort to communicate with parents and guardians clearly and consistently throughout the academic year. Williston is a community that values the partnership between families and the school, believing it strengthens the educational experience for our students.

WillyNet, the password-protected area of the school’s website, is the primary source of information about events and activities on campus. Once logged in, parents may view and update their personal profile, as well as that of their child, and read and print grades and financial statements when they are available. In WillyNet, they may also view the most up-to-date calendars, check athletic schedules, and download important documents.

Upper School grades will be posted online after each trimester, and comments from teachers will be posted after the fifth week in the first trimester. Comments from teachers will also be posted in each trimester for students whose grades are below 70. Letters from advisors are sent in November. A second letter from the advisor is sent in the third trimester for students in grades 9 to 11.

Additional letters or emails may come from the Dean’s Office for notices of absences, warnings of accumulated minor offenses, and follow-up for more serious rule violations. Course selection books and sign-up notices are sent from the Academic Office prior to appropriate deadlines. Other special letters and emails will come from time to time. It is especially important that parents provide a current email address in order to receive school communications.

All parents receive a weekly email, called the Weekly Update, that provides an overview of current activities and highlights topics that pertain to students’ general experiences at the school. Emails are sent Thursday afternoons during the school year.

Family Weekends and Visits There are two regularly scheduled weekend programs for parents. At Fall Family Weekend, October 26–27, all parents have an opportunity to meet faculty and school officials, visit classes, and attend special programs of interest to parents. Spring Family Weekend, April 26–27, includes a focus on college counseling for juniors.

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Parents are welcome to visit the school at other times; any appointments to meet with specific teachers or school officials should be made in advance. When visiting, parents may take their children off campus. The students must follow the usual sign-out procedures and are not permitted to miss any school obligations without permission from a school official.

Parents are strongly encouraged to arrange flights during peak vacation periods several months in advance.

Bus service to Springfield, Bradley International Airport, Boston, and other distant points is provided by Peter Pan. These buses stop in Northampton. Bus schedules are posted in the Schoolhouse corridor and are available in the Dean’s Office.

Supervised Home Visits As a school that includes both boarding and day students, we welcome opportunities for day students to be involved on campus and for boarding students to visit the homes of day students, whether for an evening or overnight.

We have deliberate policies on campus to provide a safe social environment for students and expect that parents will provide an adult-supervised and drug- and alcoholfree environment whenever Williston students are guests in their homes. When a day or boarding parent extends an invitation to a boarding student as an overnight guest (see page 13 for permissions), the school assumes the invitation means that a parent will be at home and will not permit student use of alcohol or drugs. Parents are urged to communicate with each other to insure that all student gatherings are supervised and substance free.

We strongly encourage parents to communicate with the dean of students or the associate head regarding any unsupervised party or substance abuse concerns, so that there may be discreet and diplomatic follow-up.

Prior to any long weekend or term end break, students complete travel forms specifying their travel plans and needs for assistance. The school will assist students in

Parent calls inviting students to visit should be made to the Dean’s Office well before the students are scheduled to leave campus for the visit.

2012-13 Student Handbook 49

community Life

If students are planning to fly to and from Bradley International Airport and are not yet 15 years old, families should check with the airline regarding their escort requirements and notify the Dean’s Office at least two weeks prior to the flight date if an escort will be needed.

Residential Life

The closest commercial airport is Bradley International (Hartford, CT), about 30 miles from the school, and travel can be arranged to and from that point at student expense if students sign up in advance. Announcements for advance sign-up are made in assemblies. Transportation is also offered at student expense to and from the Springfield bus and train stations.

Easthampton is served by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA). PVTA bus service to and from Northampton, Amherst, and Holyoke is available Monday through Saturday. These buses stop next to the Schoolhouse on Payson Avenue.

Academics

For international students, we recommend that travel arrangements be communicated directly to the international student coordinator (see page 16) so the school knows specific plans for each student.

Local Transportation

schedule /Hours

Vacations are scheduled to begin at the times printed on the school calendar. Please see page 58 for the Upper School calendar, page63 for the Middle School calendar.

Since examinations, tests, and important lessons are scheduled, travel plans should not be made that require student departures from school before the specified time, usually 1:00 p.m. Requests should not be made to change a student’s final exam schedule at the end of a trimester.

This is very difficult to arrange and is to the student’s disadvantage. At the end of the trimester, students may stay over one night for next-day flights. Vacations end at 7:30 p.m. on the day of return; travel arrangements must be made to enable return by this hour.

In the event of an emergency situation, the Dean’s Office will work with families to coordinate transportation arrangements.

Middle School

It is expected that parents will be responsible for arranging air travel reservations and other transportation for their children, while making certain that departures and arrivals fit with the academic schedule. Students may not be excused from classes for flights prior to the end of the final class on departure days or for late returns at the end of vacations or long weekends without express permission from the dean of students.

arranging transportation to the bus, train, and airports.

The school supplies transportation to these locations at a reduced cost and also arranges with Archer Airport Limousine at (888) 491-2722 or (413) 593-5466 for transportation.

For the Parents

Travel Arrangements

1. Academics........................................................................................................... pg. 52 2. Facilities and Services.........................................................................................pg. 53 3. Community Expectations and Rules................................................................ pg. 54 4. Communications............................................................................................... pg. 56

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Middle School

Welcome, Middle School families! While the Middle School section in the Student Handbook should serve as a valuable resource, we ask that you read the entire handbook with your child, as there are many topics that will pertain to you, including information on school rules and discipline. We have included the Middle School section to further highlight topics specific to the Middle School, such as information on our academic day, the advising program, and contact information.

We want to emphasize that communication is the key to our success as a community and the success of your student. We use WillyNet and email as our primary mode of communication with families. When you log in to WillyNet, you will find school resources including a family directory, helpful school calendars, and schedules.

You will also find documents specific to the Middle School under Middle School forms and documents on the homepage. As always, if you ever need additional clarification, or have questions about how to access this information, please do not hesitate to call.

Coming to a new school is a transition for everyone.

We hope that you quickly feel welcome and a part of our community. The Middle School is a special place, designed to provide opportunities for your children to grow as learners, to take risks and try new things, and to challenge themselves artistically, athletically, socially, and academically. It is our privilege to share this important time with your children and with you. We hope you have a wonderful year.

2012-13 Student Handbook 51

Academics The Academic Day The first academic period begins at 8:30 a.m. Classes end at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

On Wednesday, the last class period ends at 12:25 p.m. All students are welcome to stay for lunch on Wednesday.

The Afternoon Program The Afternoon Program is an integral part of Williston life, whether a student is a member of one of the numerous athletic teams competing interscholastically, participates in something of a more recreational nature, or joins one of the Arts Intensives in music, studio art, or theater. In our experience, being part of an athletic team or any of the Afternoon Program offerings at Williston is a wonderful social experience and provides an opportunity to learn something new, connect with students from all grades, and meet new faculty. Seventh graders are not required to participate in the Afternoon Program but they may. Eighth graders are required to participate in two of the three seasons.

Practice times vary from sport to sport. At the beginning of each week, the Athletic Department will post (online and on the bulletin board outside of the cage) a copy of the schedule of events for the coming week noting the time of practices, contests, meals, departures, method of transportation, and estimated time of return. You may check game schedules online at www.williston.com/athletics.

After School Study Hall A Middle School faculty member runs a study hall from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. While the structure is informal, we ask that students who are not working leave the Middle School. It is our hope that this hour provides an opportunity for students to get extra help and/or complete the homework for a few subjects.

In light of their very busy days, we try to help students balance the need for some down time with the demands of homework. Students who are not participating in

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the Afternoon Program are free to go home after the academic day.

Homework Seventh graders will receive approximately 20 minutes of homework a night per subject. Eighth graders should expect approximately 30 minutes per subject. We pay careful attention to the transition for new students and ask for any feedback from you about difficulties with homework. Homework, as review or in preparation for the next day’s class, is an essential part of your child’s education. If your child is struggling in any way, or is taking longer than expected to complete their homework, this is important information for us to know. Please do not hesitate to communicate your concerns to your child’s advisor or the Middle School director.

Grade Reports The Middle School operates on trimesters and reports academic comments three times a year. Comments are written for all Middle Schoolers at the midterm of each trimester.

Academic Probation Students’ academic and social lives are carefully monitored by Middle School faculty and the Middle School director.

When concerns arise, contact is made between school and home. In such an environment, academic expectations are high. Any student whose trimester report includes two grades lower than 70 will be placed on academic probation. A student on probation will meet with his or her parents and teachers, and the Middle School director.

The goal of that meeting will be to formulate a plan to assist the student.

If the student remains on academic probation at the end of the next term, the student will be permitted to continue at Williston only by vote of the faculty.

Advising

In addition to discussing students’ academic, athletic, and social life at Williston, each advisory group will help plan one social event during the school year. The students generate ideas for the event and choose a charity that will benefit from the proceeds earned through a small admission fee. These events are typically held on Friday evenings.

Dining Hall

Health Services

Lost and Found

Campus Store Located in the Reed Campus Center, the Campus Store sells academic supplies, clothing, personal items, and gifts. Textbooks are available through our online partner.

Visit www.williston.com/store, where you will find the link to order books. This site may also be used to sell used books back at the end of the year. See the inside back cover for store hours.

Sammy Card and Button Bucks All students receive an ID (Sammy Card) during orientation. More than just a student identification

2012-13 Student Handbook 53

community Life

Lost and found items are always plentiful in the Middle School. Texts and notebooks left around the building are collected every afternoon before the building closes.

Clothing is usually kept until the end of the trimester. We

Administrators in each of these locations also have a lost and found. We ask that all items be labeled and that any expensive items be left at home; we do not have locks on our lockers. While stealing typically is not an issue in the Middle School, we do take it seriously.

Residential Life

Middle School students use Health Services as needed.

We ask that students let a teacher or Linda Kretchmar know if they are feeling ill or need medical attention.

Occasionally a student will call or email home without us knowing, and we try to stress to students that we are responsible for them while they are here and need to know if they are not feeling well. If a Middle School student goes to Health Services, the registered nurse on duty will always call us in the Middle School. If the student needs more care or needs to go home, one of the nurses will contact the parents directly.

Academics

The Birch Dining Commons at Ford Hall offers many dining choices. Middle School students have lunch in the dining commons, usually sitting in the Cox Family Room.

Middle School students are allowed to stay for dinner if they are required to be on campus for a school event.

give clothing marked with a name directly to the student.

Other items are displayed frequently and then donated to an organization at the end of the trimester. If your child is missing something, we recommend that they post the listing in the lost and found section on WillyNet. Students tend to lose items at the dining commons, in the campus center, and at the Athletic Center with frequency.

schedule /Hours

Facilities and Services

Middle School

Each Middle School student is assigned a faculty advisor for the year. Typically, students will change advisors when they move from seventh to eighth grade. Advisory groups consist of 8–10 students. The student’s advisor will serve as a point person for both the student and the family. If a parent has any questions or concerns, the advisor is often the best person to contact. Parents are always welcome to contact individual teachers directly, but the advisor will be able to find out any information and should have a good

overall picture of the student’s day-to-day experience.

The small size of the Middle School enables teachers to stay in very close contact with parents when a child is not progressing well.

For the Parents

Academic Support

card, it features a prepaid spending account (Button Bucks), offering a safe and secure environment for students to make cashless purchases. The Sammy Card can be used on campus at the Campus Store and the StuBop snack bar, in vending machines on campus, at the library, Health Services, and for events organized by the Student Activities Office. It is also welcome at a growing number of Easthampton businesses and at our online textbook partner.

Parents have the option to set up a recurring allowance for their child using a Visa or MasterCard account to automatically replenish funds.

Parents and students have 24/7 online access to their Button Bucks account by registering at the Button Bucks Cardholder Account Center. Please visit www.williston. com/sammycard for more information.

Waiting Areas Middle School students have access to the Athletic Center, the library, and the student center in the Reed Campus Center. There is no direct adult supervision in these areas but the same behavioral expectations are expected as when students are in the Middle School. Students who need to wait for a ride home often wait in one of these locations.

Computers Every Middle School student will be issued a computer for use during the academic day. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the Whitaker-Bement Center and in the Clapp Library. Students have access to school printers.

Community Expectations and Rules We at Williston consider certain values and principles central to our daily life. Each of us must be able to rely upon members of our community to understand and adhere to these values and to act in accordance with them. Key concepts that guide our community are respect for self and others, responsibility and trust, and honor and integrity. Because the specific rules and guidelines described in the Student Handbook are derived from our core values, we take them very seriously. Please review the rules and regulations section of the handbook, beginning on page 32, to familiarize yourself with these rules.

class time or recurring lateness. Students are responsible for any late work within a time frame worked out by the student and the teacher. Early departure or late return for a weekend or vacation that results in missed classes should be approved by the Middle School director.

Accommodations may be made to get work to the student prior to any excused absence, so letting us know with ample time is helpful.

Please call Linda Kretchmar at 529-3230 by 8:30 a.m. if your child will be late or absent for the day.

Students are responsible for any missed work. Getting class notes from classmates and assignments from teachers is the student’s responsibility. Students should be prepared for the next class, including taking quizzes or tests and handing in papers, unless there have been multiple class absences for illness or other extraordinary circumstances that would require extra teacher help. Advisors will support students as they make up missed assignments.

Both lateness and absences affect your child’s academic experience, so we ask that you try to get your child to school by 8:15 a.m. We also ask that families try to schedule outside appointments after the academic day.

Disciplinary Procedures and Actions

Attendance and Absences

Individual teachers have different policies for missed

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Similar to the Upper School, the Middle School uses a unit system for minor disciplinary infractions. These

Student Dress During the Academic Day

Male specific

Boys must wear collared shirts (dress or polo) or turtlenecks. All shirts must be tucked in. No more than two top buttons may be unbuttoned. Belts must be worn.

Female specific

• Cargo, athletic, military camouflage, drawstring, or carpenter style pants or shorts • Shirts with large or inappropriate print • T-shirts and tank tops • Coats or jackets designed for outdoor use worn indoors to cover unacceptable dress • Hats or head coverings, including headbands and bandannas, in buildings other than dormitories and the Athletic Center.

• Strapless dresses, spaghetti strap dresses/tops • Tube tops and midriff-baring tops • Scoop neck and V-neck tops that are revealing Formal Clothing Formal or dress clothing is required for formal dinners and for formal school gatherings, many athletic trips, and some off-campus excursions. Dress clothing for boys means suits or sport jackets with dress slacks, dress shirts and ties (or turtlenecks), and shoes and socks. Dress clothing for girls means dresses, blouses with pants or skirts, and shoes. Jeans and sneakers are considered informal clothing and are inappropriate for any student on these occasions.

Acceptable Use Policy Students are expected to comply with the school’s Acceptable Use Policy (see page 45), which is distributed to all students and is available in the academic resources section of WillyNet, and applies to technical services such as computers and telephones. The policy also covers content such as email, voicemail, files, photos, videos, and other data.

2012-13 Student Handbook 55

community Life

Girls are permitted to wear skirts, dresses, or shorts, but these must be no shorter than mid-thigh. Shirts with tails, such as dress oxfords, must be tucked in.

Dress shirts, turtlenecks, or tunics specifically meant to be untucked may be as long as one’s midriff and

• No exposed undergarments (underwear or bra straps)

Residential Life

Academic day dress is worn throughout the campus (including the Reed Campus Center) from 8:20 a.m.-3:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: until 12:25 p.m. on Wednesdays and on class Saturdays. The Middle School academic day ends at 3:00 p.m. on all days except Wednesdays.

• Flip-flops and sports sandals

Academics

The dress code is based on common sense, moderation, and respect for self and others. Our expectation is that all clothing be modest, neat, clean, in good repair, and fit properly.

• Sweatshirts and/or items made of sweatshirt material

schedule /Hours

Dress Code

The following are not permitted:

Middle School

Students may be placed on behavioral probation as a result of repeated units or a major offense. Academic probation occurs when a student receives two Ds at the marking period. After two trimesters on academic probation or a second major rule violation, a student’s continuation at Williston will be discussed. Parents are always kept abreast of, and often included in, all of these discussions.

back are not exposed, and any shirt should not extend more than four inches below the waist. No more than two top buttons may be unbuttoned.

For the Parents

may include, but are not limited to, dress code violations, gum chewing, classroom behavior, and use of cell phones or MP3 players during the academic day. We will have conversations with the students and families as units accumulate. Conversations about behavior happen frequently and students come to expect that faculty will play an active role in their lives. Our approach is always proactive. Education about infractions such as plagiarism and honesty is most important. We understand and expect that mistakes will happen, as they are an integral part of growing up. We are, first and foremost, a community of learners. Respect for one another is critical.

Communications WillyNet, the password-protected area of the school’s website, is the primary source of information about events and activities on campus. This is where parents can find information specific to the Middle School. Here you will find a posting of Middle School communications as well as a calendar of upcoming events and important dates. In WillyNet you’ll also find important Middle School documents and directories.

Contacting Your Child If you need to reach your child during the academic day, please call Linda Kretchmar at 529-3230. She will make sure to get a message directly to your child if possible. If she is unable to speak directly with your child, she will leave a message in their mailbox in the Middle School.

Students need to get in the habit of checking their mailbox regularly. Parents may also leave a voicemail if the student carries a cell phone to school.

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Weather-related Changes In the case of a weather-related change in Middle School hours, a message will be left on our weather line, 413-529-3191.

When school is cancelled, the message will be posted by 6:30 a.m. on this line. In addition, an email will be sent directly to all Middle School students and faculty.

Parents’ Association The Parents’ Association includes all parents and guardians of Williston students. Please see page 47 for more information.

Schedules and Hours

1. Upper School Schedules.................................................................................... pg. 58 2. Travel Dates....................................................................................................... pg. 60 3. Test Dates........................................................................................................... pg. 61 4. Middle School Schedule, Hours, and Contacts...............................................pg. 62 5. Afternoon Program...........................................................................................pg. 64

2012-13 Student Handbook 57

Upper School Schedules and Dates Upper School Daily Schedule Blue Week Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

SAT

8:30-9:30 C

8:30-9:30 G

8:30 Assembly

8:30-9:30 B

8:30-9:30 E

8:30-9:20 A

9:40-10:40 F

9:40-10:40 C

9:05-10:05 A

9:40-10:40 E

9:40-10:40 A

9:30-10:20 D

10:50-11:50 D

10:50-11:50 E

10:15-11:15 D

10:50-11:50 M

10:50-11:50 G

10:30-11:50 G

L1

12:301:30 E2

L1 12:001:00 E1

L1 12:001:00 F1

12:301:30 F2

L2 1:402:40 A AH

1:403:00 A AP & LAB*

L1

11:25-12:25 B

12:001:00 G1

12:301:30 G2

L2 1:402:40 B

L2

1:403:00 B AP & LAB*

BH

1:403:00 C AP & LAB*

1:402:40 C CH Afternoon Program

Activities

12:301:30 B2

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

12:001:00 B1

L2

1:40-2:40 D

Activities 3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

DINNER 5:15-7:00 EVENING ACTIVITIES & CLASSES 6:00-8:00 STUDY HALL 8:00-10:00

* Chemistry, Biology, and all AP classes extend into the H block as noted.

Note: English, History, and Language classes eat during L1. Fine Arts, Math, and Science eat during L2.

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2012-13 Student Handbook

11:30-12:20 F

For the Parents

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

8:30-9:30 G

8:30 ADV/MTG

8:30-9:30 B

8:30-9:30 ASSEMBLY MTG

9:40-10:40 F

9:40-10:40 C

9:05-10:05 A

9:40-10:40 E

9:40-10:40 A

10:50-11:50 D

10:50-11:50 E

10:15-11:15 D

10:50-11:50 F

10:50-11:50 G

L1

12:301:30 A2

L1 12:001:00 A1

L1 12:001:00 B1

12:301:30 B2

L2

EH

1:403:00 E AP & LAB*

12:001:00 C1

12:301:30 C2

L2 1:402:40 F

L2

1:403:00 F AP & LAB*

FH

1:403:00 G AP & LAB*

1:402:40 G GH Afternoon Program

Activities

12:301:30 B2

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

12:001:00 B1

L2 1:402:40 DH DH

1:403:00 D AP & LAB*

Activities

Academics

1:402:40 E

L1

11:25-12:25 C

schedule /Hours

Mon 8:30-9:30 C

Middle School

Green Week

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

Residential Life

DINNER 5:15-7:00 EVENING ACTIVITIES & CLASSES 6:00-8:00 STUDY HALL 8:00-10:00

community Life

2012-13 Student Handbook 59

2012-2013 Dates Travel Dates This calendar is intended to aid you with travel plans for the year ahead. Please pay close attention to departure times.

We carefully plan and provide shuttle service so as not to conflict with school commitments. If you schedule your own transportation, please respect all school commitments for your child. A complete academic schedule will be posted in the spring. Please call (413) 529-3266 or email deanofstudents@williston.com with any questions.

SEPTEMBER 2012

DECEMBER 2012

4

tu

13

5

w New international students register; proctors and invited preseason athletes register (8:00–11:30 am)

7

Proctors return (1:00 pm, by invitation)

f 9th grade registration (8:00–10:00 am) 9th grade departs for orientation trip (noon) Middle School registration (10:30 am–noon)

8

sa

All other students register (8:00 am–11:30 am)

9

su Orientation Upper School Opening Assembly (4:00 pm)

10

m

th Upper and Middle School Winter vacation (12:15 pm)**

JANUARY 2013 2

w

Boarders return (7:30 pm)

3

th

Upper and Middle School classes resume

31

th

Mid-winter break begins (12:15 pm)*

FEBRUARY 2013 5

Upper and Middle School classes begin

tu Athletes return, dorms open (2:00 pm) Boarders return (7:30 pm)

OCTOBER 2012

MARCH 2013

26–27 f-sa Fall Family Weekend

1

f

27

sa Long weekend begins (after students’ last commitments, which may include athletics)*

20

w Athletes return, dorms open (2:00 pm) Boarders return (7:30 pm)

30

tu Athletes return, dorms open (2:00 pm) Boarders return (7:30 pm)

21

th

31

w

Middle and Upper School classes resume

NOVEMBER 2012 16 f Middle School Thanksgiving vacation (3:00 pm)

Spring vacation begins (10:30 am)**

Upper and Middle School classes resume

APRIL 2013 26–27 f–sa Spring Family Weekend 27

sa

Long weekend begins*

30

tu Athletes return, dorms open (2:00 pm) Boarders return (7:30 pm)

17

sa Upper School Thanksgiving vacation (10:30 am)**

MAY 2013

26

m

Boarders return (7:30 pm)

1

w

Upper and Middle School classes resume

27

tu

Upper and Middle School classes resume

26

su

Commencement (9:30 am)

27–30 m–th Grades 9–11 Trimester 3 assessments 30

th

Boarders depart for summer (10:30 am)

30

th

Middle School closing ceremony

*Students are strongly encouraged to leave campus for these breaks **The school and all dorms are closed during these vacations – for specific times, please refer to WillyNet or the Student Handbook

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2012-13 Student Handbook

For the Parents

Leave from Campus

SAT Reasoning/SAT Subject

Dean’s Office for Permissions ...................(413) 529-3266

October 6, 2012 (Easthampton HS)

Deadlines for Weekend Permission

November 3, 2012 @ Williston

Green Sheets due..........................Thursday by 10:30 a.m.

December 1, 2012 @ Williston

Parent invitation called in by Friday at 2:00 p.m.

January 26, 2013 @ Williston

Dorm check-in.....................................Sunday at 7:30 p.m.

March 9, 2013 Closed Weekends

June 1, 2013

September 15-16

ACT September 8, 2012 October 27, 2012 December 8, 2012 @ Williston

November 10-11 February 23–24 May 25–26 Study Hall Hours

February 9, 2013

Sunday-Thursday................................... 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

April 13, 2013 @ Williston

Friday (before Class Saturday).............. 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

June 8, 2013

October 17, 2012 @ Williston (all juniors)

(413) 529-3911

Beginning at 12:30 p.m. on class Saturdays and at 4:00 p.m. Friday before non-class Saturday

AP Exams

Academics

PSAT

Dean on Duty

schedule /Hours

May 4, 2013 @ Williston

Middle School

Test Dates

May 6 - 17

Residential Life community Life

2012-13 Student Handbook 61

Middle School Schedule, Hours, & Contacts Middle School Hours

Middle School Office

Drop-off........................................................ 7:30 – 8:15 a.m.

Academic Day Begins Monday-Friday........................................................ 8:30 a.m.

Jennifer H. Fulcher...................................(413) 529-3229 Head of the Middle School jfulcher@williston.com

Academic Day Ends Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday....................... 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday............................................................. 12:25 p.m.

Linda Kretchmar....................................... (413) 529-3230 Administrative Assistant lkretchmar@williston.com

Middle School Building Closes Monday – Friday.................................................... 4:00 p.m.

Andrew Syfu.............................................. (413) 529-3250 Middle School Coordinator of Student Affairs asyfu@williston.com

Afternoon Program Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday practice times vary ...................................................................... 3:45 – 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday game times vary.......................1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday.......................................................game times vary

Middle School Weather Line...........................(413) 529-3191

Faculty All teachers and advisors can be reached through email. The email addresses are first initial, last name @williston.com (example: Jen Fulcher: jfulcher@williston.com).

English • Ryan Tyree: 7th grade • Doug Niedzwecki: 8th grade • Emily Vezina: 7th grade History and Social Sciences • Diane Williams: 7th grade Geography • Michael Doubleday: 8th grade Civics • Andrew Syfu: 8th grade Civics Language • Adelene Brown: French 7th and 8th • Karen Ram, Marcela Simpson, Nat Simpson: Spanish 7th and 8th grade • Emily Vezina: Latin 7th and 8th grade Math • Libby Anderson: Geometry Honors • Kathryn Hill: Algebra Honors • Mimi King: Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Algebra Honors

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2012-13 Student Handbook

Science • Jane Lucia: 7th grade Life Science • Paul Luikart: 8th grade Physical science Electives • Catherine Kay: Middle School Chorus • Emily Ditkovski: 7th and 8th grade Theater • Rachel Chambers: 7th and 8th grade Art • Linda Kretchmar: 8th grade Health • Nicole Fizznoglia: String Ensemble • Jon Weeks: Wind Ensemble Physical Education Staff • Mark Conroy, Director • Jay Grant, Associate Director • Melissa Brousseau, Assistant Director and Head Athletic Trainer • Erin Davey, Administrative Assistant • Justin LaValle, Athletic Center Assistant

For the Parents

Middle School Daily Schedule Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

8:30-9:30 C

8:30-9:30 G

8:30 Assembly

8:30-9:30 B

8:30-9:30 E

9:40-10:40 M

9:40-10:40 C

9:05-10:05 A

9:40-10:40 E

9:40-10:40 A

10:50-11:50 D

10:50-11:50 E

10:15-11:15 D

10:50-11:50 M

10:50-11:50 G

Lunch

Lunch

11:25-12:25 B

Lunch

Lunch

12:30-1:30 E

12:30-1:30 D

Afternoon Program

12:30-1:30 G

12:30-1:30 B

1:40-2:40 A

1:40-2:40 B

1:40-2:40 C

1:40-2:40 D

3:00 AH

3:00 BH

3:00 CH

3:00 HELP

Activities

Activities

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

Wed

Thu

Fri

8:30-9:30 C

8:30-9:30 G

8:30 ADV/MEET

8:30-9:30 B

8:30-9:30 ASSEMBLY MEETINGS

9:40-10:40 G

9:40-10:40 C

9:05-10:05 A

9:40-10:40 E

9:40-10:40 A

10:50-11:50 D

10:50-11:50 E

10:15-11:15 D

10:50-11:50 M

10:50-11:50 G

Lunch

Lunch

11:25-12:25 C

Lunch

Lunch

12:30-1:30 A

12:30-1:30 B

Afternoon Program

12:30-1:30 C

12:30-1:30 B

1:40-2:40 E

1:40-2:40 A

1:40-2:40 G

1:40-2:40 D

3:00 EH

3:00 HELP

3:00 GH

3:00 DH Activities

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

3:45-5:35 Afternoon Program

2012-13 Student Handbook 63

community Life

Activities

Residential Life

Tue

Academics

Green Week Mon

schedule /Hours

Mon

Middle School

Blue Week

Afternoon Program Options • • • • • •

All Upper School students are required to participate all three trimesters 11th & 12th grade—minimum of one group option 9th & 10th grade—minimum of two group options 8th grade—must participate for two trimesters in two different group options 7th grade—no required participation All new students must choose a group option in the fall

Students wishing to pursue any special project or exemption, including an outside sport, sport specialization, academic or art related endeavor, or any other type of project, must apply to the Special Project Committee at least one week prior to the start of an Afternoon Program trimester. The Special Project Committee includes representatives from the Academic Office, Athletic Department, Dean’s Office, and Fine & Performing Arts Department. Fitness & Conditioning is limited for seniors to one trimester per year. Some options have limited space available.

Fall Trimester

WINTER Trimester

spring Trimester

Group Options Arts Tech Theater—scene shop Tech Theater—costume shop Dance—by audition

Group Options Arts Children’s Theater Dance Tech Theater—scene shop Tech Theater—costume shop

Group Options Arts Dance—by audition Tech Theater—scene shop Tech Theater—costume shop

Athletics Crew (approximate cost $400) Boys Cross Country Girls Cross Country Football (boys) Field Hockey (girls) Boys Soccer Girls Soccer Girls Volleyball Boys Water Polo Horseback Riding (approximate cost $1200) Instructional Tennis

Community Robotics

Athletics Girls Basketball Boys Basketball Girls Ice Hockey Boys Ice Hockey Girls Squash Boys Squash Girls Swimming & Diving Boys Swimming & Diving Girls Ski Team (approximate cost $400) Boys Ski Team (approximate cost $400) Wrestling Horseback Riding (approximate cost $1400) Beginning Judo Team Manager

Independent Options Arts Music Intensive Visual Arts Intensive

Independent Options Arts Music Intensive Visual Arts Intensive

Athletics Fitness & Conditioning (limited to 12th

Athletics Fitness & Conditioning

graders) Fitness is limited for seniors to one trimester per year. (New seniors and post-graduates wishing to do Fitness in the fall must apply to the Special Project Committee with the support of a Williston varsity coach.)

(limited to 11th– 12th graders)

(7th–10th graders who are not experienced athletes)

Team Manager

Community Children’s Center Assistant 64

2012-13 Student Handbook

Community Children’s Center Assistant

Athletics Baseball (boys) Crew (approximate cost $400) Boys Golf (approximate cost $175) Girls Golf (approximate cost $175) Boys Lacrosse Girls Lacrosse Softball (girls) Boys Tennis Girls Tennis Boys Track & Field Girls Track & Field Girls Water Polo Beginning Judo Horseback Riding (approximate cost $1200) Team manager Community Community Service/Community Garden Independent Options Arts Music Intensive Visual Arts Intensive Athletics Fitness & Conditioning (limited to 12th graders)

Community Children’s Center Assistant

Facility Hours Birch Dining Hall

Library Hours

Monday-Friday

Monday-Thursday............................8:00 a.m. – 9:45 p.m.

Friday................................................8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Friday before Saturday classes.........8:00 a.m. – 9:45 p.m.

Class Saturday.........................................8:00 – 12:30 p.m.

Closed on non-class Saturdays Sunday.......................................................1:00 – 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 – 9:45 p.m.

Breakfast...................................................... 7:15 – 8:15 a.m.

Continental Breakfast................................ 8:15 – 8:45 a.m.

Lunch................................................ 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Dinner.........................................................5:15 – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday

Breakfast (class Saturdays)......................... 7:15 – 8:15 a.m.

Continental Breakfast (non-class Saturdays) ............................... 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Lunch (class Saturdays).................. 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Brunch

(non-class Saturdays).................... 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Dinner......................................................... 5:15 – 6:45 p.m.

Sunday

Continental Breakfast............................... 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Brunch........................................... 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Dinner......................................................... 5:15 – 6:30 p.m.

Health Services

Monday – Friday................................7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ...........................................................and 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Class Saturday................................ 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Non-class Saturday........................ 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Sunday............. 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

At other times an on-call nurse is available at (413) 529-3911.

Reed Campus Center Hours Monday-Thursday..................................7:30 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.

Friday before Class Saturday........................................7:30 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.

Friday before non-class Saturday............................... 7:30 a.m. – 10:50 p.m.

Class Saturday...................................... 7:30 a.m. – 10:50 p.m.

Non-class Saturday....................................... 1:00 – 10:50 p.m.

Sunday................................................................1:00 – 9:50 p.m.

Stu-Bop Snack Bar Hours Weekdays except Wednesday............................................. 7:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday..............................................7:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Class Saturday.....................................8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Campus Store Hours Weekdays except Wednesday................ 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday.............................................8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Class Saturdays...................................8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Athletic Center Pool.........................................................7:30 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.

Workout Room.......................................7:30 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.

Trainer’s Room.......................................7:30 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.

Squash Courts........................................7:30 a.m. – 9:50 p.m.

The Williston Northampton School admits students of any race, religion, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation in the administration of its to educational policies, financial aid program, scholarship programs, or athletic and other school-administered programs.

The Williston Northampton School’s residential and academic facilities are increasingly wheelchair accessible. We encourage individuals needing special accommodations to identify themselves during the application process and let us know the type of accommodation they require.

2012-13 Student Handbook 65

Quick List School Switchboard..............................................................................................................................(413) 529-3000 Emergencies (life-threatening)............................................................................................................................... 911 Dean on Duty, Health Services, and Campus Security....................................................................... (413) 529-3911 Athletics Information............................................................................................................................(413) 529-3910 Middle School Weather Line................................................................................................................. (413) 529-3191 Theatre Box Office.................................................................................................................................(413) 529-3434

The Williston Northampton School Student Handbook is an evolving document whose content is subject to change.

Updated August 2012

bn 

2012-13 Student Handbook