Academics

Course Requirements & Credits Earned

Course Requirements	Credits Earned
English	4.00
Social Studies	4.00
Mathematics*	3.00
Science*	3.00
Mathematics, Science, or Computer Science*	1.00
Wellness (Ninth Grade)	1.00
Physical Education	1.00
Health	0.50
Graduation Project	0.80
Electives**	8.50
Total	26.80

 

*Students must earn a combined total of 7.0 credits and Mathematics and Science which can include 1.0 credit in Computer Programming, Advanced Computer Programming, or AP Computer Science.

**Two years of World Language are required but exceptions are considered on an individual basis.

Full Program Schedule

Students must have a full program schedule that includes 8 scheduled course blocks, with no more than one of the 8 blocks scheduled as a study hall.

North Montco Technical Career Center Programs

Some WHS students participate in a hybrid of courses, some select courses at NMTCC with the balance of their core programming at WHS. Once these students return to WHS, they will be required to register for one of our Virtual High School courses and report to the high school library where they will engage with that on-line course. 

Credit Denial

If a student accumulates a total of ten (10) days of absences (excused or unexcused) for a full year course, the student may not receive academic credit toward graduation. Classes missed as a result of lateness to school and/or early dismissal are counted as part of the ten (10) day total. Students who are denied credit due to excessive absences will be required to attend summer school or retake the course to earn the credit(s).  Special consideration will be given to those students who are seriously ill.  If a student is denied credit for any or all of their courses, the parents/guardians may request to attend a credit denial conference with the appropriate building administrator.  The purpose of this conference is to review the student’s attendance and discuss any circumstances that have affected the student’s ability to attend school and to determine if credit can be restored for the course or courses in question.  In the event of extenuating circumstances, the building principal will meet with the parents/guardians and student in an effort to find an equitable solution to the attendance problem.

Distinguished Scholarship Roll/Scholarship Roll

In order for students to be eligible for the Distinguished Scholarship Roll, students must have earned a marking period cumulative unweighted GPA of at least 3.75. For the Scholarship Roll, students must have earned a marking period cumulative unweighted GPA of at least 3.50.

Promotion Requirements

Students who have not earned enough credits to be promoted will be notified by their counselor at the end of each school year.  Students are able to make up their credit deficiency through summer school or through work in the following school year.  They may rejoin their grade level class when the credits for the make-up courses are completed.

For Promotion	Required Criteria
From Grade 9 to Grade 10	6 credits
From Grade 10 to Grade 11	A minimum of 12.50 credits overall
From Grade 11 to Grade 12	A minimum of 19.00 credits overall

 

Grading System

We agree that the primary purpose of grades is to communicate student achievement to all stakeholders with an emphasis on application and demonstration of skills.  As such, students at WHS will be graded no less than 85% on assessments that are graded for accuracy and no more than 15% for homework completion, class participation, classwork, etc. Wissahickon High School uses the following grading system.

Letter Grade	Percent Grade	Grade Points
A	93 - 100	4
A-	90 - 92	3.7
B+	87 - 89	3.3
B	83 - 86	3
B-	80 - 82	2.7
C+	77 - 79	2.3
C	73 – 76	2
C-	70 – 72	1.7
D+	67 – 69	1.3
D	65 – 66	1
F	0 – 64	0
I	Incomplete
M	Medical
P	Passing
F	Failing

 

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Both unweighted and weighted GPA are part of the WHS transcript.

• A student's unweighted GPA will stand relative to 4.0.
• An unweighted Grade Point Average (GPA) will be based upon the following numerical values:
• A weighted GPA will be calculated in the following manner:
• Each Advanced Placement level course in which a pupil has received a grade of C- or better in grades 9-12 will award the pupil .10 bonus points per credit.
• Each Honors or Gifted level course in which a pupil has received a grade of C- or better in grades 9-12 will award the pupil .05 bonus points per credit.
• Special Education courses will be weighted the same as Academic level courses.

Wissahickon does not rank students numerically. The range of unweighted and weighted GPAs will be provided on the high school profile. Colleges may request in writing (to the WHS Guidance Department) specific student class rank information. If this information is required for admission to a particular school or to qualify for a scholarship or specialty program, the Guidance Department will advise whether the student was in the top 5% or the appropriate percentile into which the student would fall, based upon the weighted GPA.

The Senior Class Valedictorian will be the student with the highest percentile based upon a weighted GPA at the end of the third marking period of their senior year.  To be considered, students must have attended Wissahickon High School for a minimum of two (2) years.  The graduation speakers will be the class valedictorian and a twelfth-grade student selected by audition.

View Grades and Report Cards

Parents may review overall course grades and report cards in the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. Detailed assignments and grades may be viewed in Schoology. 

Graduation Requirements

In the event there are any questions or clarifications about these WHS. Graduation Requirements, the High School Principal and/or Superintendent shall have the exclusive discretion to render a final interpretation/decision on the graduation requirements at issue and to implement modifications to an applicable student’s course selections/roster.  Although courses may be selected for a year or semester, report cards are issued four times a year and final grades are given in all courses.  Final grades become part of a student’s permanent transcript file. In general, ninth graders must earn a minimum of six (6) units before entering the tenth grade; tenth graders a minimum of twelve and one-half (12.5) units overall before entering the eleventh grade; eleventh graders a minimum of nineteen (19) units overall before entering twelfth grade.

Graduation Project

Students must satisfactorily complete the Wissahickon School District Graduation Project as a requirement for graduating from WHS.

Keystone Assessments

Achieving a proficient score on all three of the PA Keystone Exams (Algebra, Biology, and Literature) is one way for Pennsylvania students to demonstrate their proficiency for post-secondary work. In addition, however, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has established alternative pathways by which a student is able to demonstrate post-secondary readiness. This is now a high school graduation requirement beginning with the class of 2023 and beyond.

Intervention and Enrichment Periods (IE)

The Intervention and Enrichment program is a student-driven program aimed at supporting and challenging students academically.  Students, on a biweekly basis, will register for courses online that provide a variety of learning opportunities that enrich and support our current curricula.  Students are offered a number of IE sessions to select purely in the pursuit of a learning interest as well.  These IE sessions meet two times every six-day cycle for forty-eight minutes.  We believe IE offerings strengthen our already sound educational programs.  IE course listings can be found on the website.

Program of Studies

Please consult the current Program of Studies for relevant deadlines concerning course selection. 

Parent/Student Initiated Change in Course - Moving down a level:

• Level changes will only be considered after the midpoint of the first marking period if:
• The student is failing.
• The student has documented that they have received additional supports offered by the district such as:  after school tutoring, Instructional Support Lab, IE period, and support classes where available.
• The student has made an appointment with their guidance counselor to discuss the change, the impact on their future and the impact on their schedule.  After the mid-marking period point, students might be unable to schedule new courses. 
• The teacher has been consulted.
• Parents/students must put requests in terms of course drops/withdraw and schedule changes in writing.  Forms are available in the School Counseling Office.  (Waiver forms were previously supplied at the beginning of course selection).
• This change will be done with an Administrator’s approval and a grade of “W” will appear on the transcript after the mid-marking period point of the first marking period.  The student’s current grade in the course can be carried over to his/her new course, with a minimum of a 60% being used to transition into the new course.

Summer School 

The WHS Camp for Success will include opportunities for credit recovery, opportunities for pre-teaching in Math, Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies, and opportunities for SAT/ACT test preparation and essay writing.

Wissahickon High School offers a summer school program providing students an opportunity to remediate failures, in up to two courses, for which they may have incurred during the school year.  WHS delivers most summer school instruction in a virtual manner, where students may attend sessions at the high school but access the curriculum through a prescribed online program.  Students are strongly encouraged to remediate any core course (Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies) they may have failed to prevent becoming credit deficient.

To be eligible for summer school students must have attended school regularly, taken advantage of opportunities for teacher remediation, and have earned a final grade of at least 50%.  Students whose final grade is below 50% will be required to repeat the course. If students have failed to attend and participate in their classes, they may be excluded from summer school by the administration.  The final decision regarding a student’s attendance in summer school is made by the principal.

Credit Recovery courses are available for students who do not earn a passing grade in one of their core classes during the school year, families will have the option to complete credit recovery courses (1 or 2 courses) over the summer.  A core class is defined as: English, history, math, and social studies.  Credit recovery classes will be taught via an online platform through the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU).  Students will be expected to report to WHS to receive support from a Wissahickon teacher.  There is a cost associated with credit recovery classes and families will be responsible for paying this cost.  Please speak to your school counselor regarding specific cost related concerns.  The cost of these classes may fluctuate from year-to-year based on the MCIU pricing.

Pre-teaching courses are offered to students at no cost to families.  The purpose of these courses is to prepare students for a course they have not taken yet, but will take in the upcoming school year.  Teachers will review concepts/skills and also preview material that students will see in the upcoming course.

A SAT prep course is offered to students at no cost to families.  This course is designed to prepare students to take either the SAT exam 

All summer programming is subjected to change each year based on student need, budget, and staffing availability.

Study Hall

Sessions when students are not scheduled for academic classes are referred to as Study Hall and provide students with several opportunities. 

In the interest of maintaining a quiet, orderly atmosphere in which students may indeed study and do homework or other

• Be on time.
• Attendance will be taken when everyone is in his/her assigned seat.
• No one may leave until attendance is taken.
• A quiet study atmosphere requires the following restrictions:
• No eating or drinking.
• No use of electronic devices that are disruptive to other students.
• If you wish to leave study hall to make up a test, lab, or gym class, you must first present the previously signed excuse note from your teacher.
• Bring the books and materials with you that you will need.  Locker visits should not be necessary.
• You must have permission from your Study Hall teacher to go to the Library.  Each student in the Library should be working on a class assignment, on extra research, or reading for pleasure.

Alma Mater and School Spirit

Hail Wissahickon
The gold and the blue
To our alma mater
We'll always be true
Through all of our lifetimes
We'll look back with tears
Remembering the joys of our Wissahickon years

Colors – Blue and Gold

School Mascot – The Trojans

Attendance

In accordance with Board Policy #204 Attendance, enrolled school-aged students are required to attend school regularly. The educational program offered by the Wissahickon School District values the presence of all students and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation.

Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in District schools during the days and hours that the school is in session. The following conditions constitute reasonable cause for absence from school:

• illness
• obtaining professional health care or therapy service rendered by a licensed practitioner
• quarantine
• family emergency
• recovery from accident
• required court attendance
• death in family
• observance of a religious holiday
• non-school-sponsored educational tour or trip
• other urgent reasons

When a student accumulates seven absences, families will receive a notification as a reminder of the district’s attendance policy and requirements.  After ten absences, in order to prevent absences from becoming unlawful and requiring intervention, families will receive a notification.  When a student has ten or more absences, a doctor’s note is required to report student sickness and building principals may contact families to arrange an attendance improvement plan.

Absence/Tardy Excuse Notifications

If your student is to be absent or tardy, you must call the attendance line or email the attendance office (email is strongly preferred). If you choose to send an email, an additional excuse note is not necessary. If you choose to call the office, an excuse note must be provided to the attendance office that your student attends within three (3) days of their return to school. A doctor’s note is also required if the student is absent more than 3 days.

The email and phone call must contain the following information: date, student name, homeroom teacher and reason for absence. 

Attendance at school is one of the most important factors in achieving academic success.  It is expected that students will be present every day they are physically able, arrive on time, and punctually attend every scheduled class. 

Telephone Number and Email Address for Reporting Student Absences

• 215-619-8112 ext. 8031 or press 2
• whsattendance@wsdweb.org

Lateness to School

Students must be in the classroom by the defined start of the school day. The school day begins at 7:37 a.m. If it is necessary for your child to be tardy, please call or email the Attendance Office.  Upon arrival at school, the student must report to the main office to sign in and provide a note stating the reason for tardiness. 

The only acceptable excuses for students who are late to school are illness verified by a parent/guardian note, verified medical appointments, and emergencies deemed appropriate by the administration.  Emergencies do not include missing the bus, oversleeping, car problems, etc.  Lateness interferes with the orderly and efficient administration of the school program and will be dealt with accordingly. Unexcused tardiness will result in the student not being given the opportunity to make-up missed class work.  Excessive unexcused tardiness could result in enforcement of the credit denial policy.  If a student is tardy (excused or unexcused) 10 times in a semester or 15 times for the year, a doctor’s note will be required for future lateness.  Failure to present a doctor’s note will result in the lateness being coded as unexcused. 

• First and second offense:  warning
• Third offense:  after-school detention
• Fourth offense:  after-school detention
• Fifth offense:  after-school detention
• Sixth and seventh offense:  Saturday detention (2 hour)
• Eighth and ninth offense:  Saturday detention (4 hour)
• Tenth offense:  in-school suspension
• Future offenses:  incremental application of in-school and out-of-school suspensions, administrator/parent conference. 

College Visits/Educational Trips

Students attending college visits or taking educational trips must complete a pre-approval form found in the attendance office or on-line and have it completed and approved by teachers and administrators prior to their scheduled visit/trip.  There is a 5-day limit to non-school sponsored travel per academic year.  Students requesting non-school travel for more than 5 days will have the Sixth day and subsequent days of absence coded as unexcused and will be unable to make-up any work for credit on those days.  Non-school sponsored travel will not be approved during standardized testing dates.  Students who have exceeded the 10-day absence total will not be approved for such visits/trips.  Failure to follow this procedure may result in an unexcused absence(s) and being ineligible to participate in extra-curricular activities for that day.

Early Dismissal

Parent/Guardian must send a note from home stating the reason for the early dismissal.  A doctor’s note or an appointment card is necessary for verification. Students who need to be excused from school for a doctor or dental appointment or other emergency, must report to the attendance desk with the note from home, before going to first period, to obtain an early dismissal pass. The early dismissal pass must be returned to attendance before leaving school. In order to take part in any after school event, students must attend school by 8:30 AM.  No early dismissals will be accepted for studying, hair appointments, prom preparation, and any other personal appointments, which can be handled after school hours.

Students may not leave the school building under any circumstances unless excused by appropriate school personnel and have signed out from the Attendance Office or Nurse’s Office. Failure to follow proper procedure will result in school discipline.

Family Travel

If you are planning to take your student on a family trip while school is in session, WSD Board Policy #204 allows for up to five days of non-school sponsored travel per school year. Parents/Guardians planning such a trip should complete the Family Travel Acknowledgement Form and return it to the principal of the school. These five or fewer days count in the ten days of cumulative lawful absences. The request should be submitted two weeks prior to the trip to allow for proper review. After the request has been reviewed and processed, the principal will send a copy of this form indicating his/her approval or denial of your request. Additionally, non-school sponsored travel will not be approved as an excused absence during standardized testing dates.

Homeroom

Official school attendance is taken during homeroom. Students missing homeroom will be disciplined using the class cut procedure. If a student has been kept from homeroom by request of a staff member, they should contact the attendance office as soon as possible. Other purposes for homeroom include:  conducting opening exercises, watching student announcements, distributing guidance appointments and materials, holding student elections and other tasks, as necessary.

Truancy

Truancy, which is unlawful absence from school according to Pennsylvania State Code, and other unexcused absences from school will not be tolerated. Truancy will result in the assignment of school discipline. Administration may request a parent conference to enact a Truancy Elimination Plan or other measures. Each case will be referred to the Home and School Visitor for appropriate legal

Breakfast and Lunch School Meals

District students may purchase breakfast, lunch and snacks each day. Students and their families may view the school menus online: https://wsdweb.nutrislice.com/.  The school menus include images and descriptions of the meals and nutritional information. School menus are also available on the district mobile app. Glass containers are not permitted in school for safety reasons.

Meal Costs

The cost for breakfast is $1.35 and the cost for lunch is $2.65. The reduced cost for breakfast is $0.30 and the reduced cost for lunch is $0.40.  Lunch snacks are an additional cost. 

Free and Reduced-Price Meal Eligibility

Your student(ren) may be eligible to receive free or reduced school meals, based on your income or state benefits received. Beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, school meals are no longer free for all students as this federal funding is discontinued for districts to provide free meals to all students. In order to be eligible for free or reduced meals, families will need to complete an application unless they participate in a qualified benefits program (e.g., SNAP, TANF, or certain Medical Assistance).  Click here to learn more: https://www.wsdweb.org/departments/food-services

Cafeteria Accounts

Each student has a cafeteria account that is accessible with the last four (4) digits of their student ID number. Families may choose to send their student with money to pay for lunch each day. Alternatively, families may periodically (i.e., weekly, monthly, etc.) send a check with their student to school to replenish their cafeteria account; or families may use MySchoolBucks to replenish their student’s account online. Checks are made payable to “WSD Cafeteria Account.” Please include your student’s name on the check. For MySchoolBucks, visit this website to learn more: https://www.wsdweb.org/departments/business/my-school-bucks

Cafeteria Guidelines

Students will be expected to report to their assigned lunch area.  Students may not congregate in the halls or roam around the building during lunches. Students are expected to respect the rights of all fellow students by not cutting in the serving lines, eating in a mannerly way, returning all eating utensils and trash to the appropriate area, and making certain that the table area is clean upon departure.  No food, including beverages and desserts, is permitted outside of the cafeteria area. Students are not permitted to leave campus during lunch periods.

Board of School Directors

The Wissahickon Board of School Directors is governed by nine citizens elected at large by voters of the district. The Board operates under the authority granted it by the Pennsylvania Public School Code of 1949; Title 22, Education, of the Pennsylvania Code; and regulations of the State Board of Education. The Board's meetings are held in accordance with Act 84 of 1986 and Act 20 of 1993 of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The Board of School Directors meets twice monthly for its public meetings. Please visit the School Board section of the district website to learn more: https://www.wsdweb.org/school-board

As the elected governing body of Wissahickon School District, the School Directors are responsible for:

• Policy making for school district operations
• Designating the chief executive
• Planning, goal setting and appraisal
• Adopting an annual budget and appropriation measures.
• Exercising its taxing power to provide funds for the operation of the District.
• Considering and passing upon the recommendations of the Superintendent in all matters of policy, appointment or dismissal of employees, salary schedules or other personnel regulations, courses of study, selection of textbooks, or other matters pertaining to the welfare of schools.
• Informing the public concerning the progress and needs of the schools, and to solicit and weigh public opinion as it affects the schools.

Board Policies

The Board policy manual serves as an instrument to guide the decision-making process affecting all aspects of the Wissahickon School District organization. These board policies are designed to reflect culture, character, and values of the school community while meeting state and federal regulations. These policies are applicable to school directors, students, employees, families and community members. As such, these groups are charged with knowing, reviewing, and abiding by the policies set forth in this reference manual. Click here to review to Board policy manual: https://www.wsdweb.org/school-board/board-policies

Communication with Teachers

Student to teacher communication via e-mail should occur in a positive, civil and respectful manner.  Students should not submit text messages or emails that are derogatory and/or negative in tone.  Issues and differences of opinion should occur in a positive and reflective manner. All cases of student to teacher, teacher to student, parent to teacher and teacher to parent communication should be reflective and civil.

District and School Communication

The District communicates with students and their families through various channels, including but not limited to email, phone call, text message, website, mobile app, and social media.

In order to receive timely and effective communication, it is essential for parents to maintain up-to-date contact information including email and phone numbers in the Infinite Campus Portal.

District Website

We invite you to visit our website to learn more about our district: www.wsdweb.org 

News & Calendar Alerts

Set up email and/or text alerts to receive district and school-specific news and calendar events that are posted on the WSD website. Alerts can be customized by district and school news and events. Read WSD News and subscribe to receive customized news & calendar alerts

School Messenger

SchoolMessenger is the district's notification software used for emergency information (e.g. weather-related or other), school news, student and staff accomplishments, upcoming events, current issues affecting WSD families and other district/school communication. Family contact information entered into Infinite Campus is automatically uploaded to SchoolMessenger allowing e-news to be shared via phone, text and email.

Mobile App

The WSD mobile app provides on-demand access to the most important information and resources. Search Wissahickon School District in your App Store to download the free mobile app to your mobile device. The app provides access to:

• School calendars
• Athletics calendar
• Lunch menus
• Access to Infinite Campus, Schoology, and MySchoolBucks
• WSD staff directory
• Important news and notifications

District Social Media

Our social media sites keep families and the community updated on school news and provide a forum for connecting and sharing accomplishments, photos and videos of our students, staff and school community. Below are the official social media accounts for the district and our schools.

• Facebook - http://facebook.com/wissahickonschooldistrict
• Twitter - District/School News @WissahickonSD
• Instagram - @WissahickonSchoolDistrict
• YouTube - Watch us on YouTube (read how to subscribe to our YouTube Channel)

Many WSD teachers are also on Twitter – ask if they have a page & what their handle is!

• Lower Gwynedd Elementary - Sue Kanopka @PrincipalLGE
• Stony Creek Elementary @StonyCreek_WSD
• Wissahickon High School Counseling Office: @wisscounselors

Search our Hashtags

• #WissLearns (classroom/learning highlights)
• #WissCares (community service/character education)
• #WissPride (staff, student, school achievements)
• #WissNation (athletics and district-wide news & achievements)

Wissahickon Television (WTV)

Wissahickon Television, WTV, is a collaborative effort between the Wissahickon High School, Middle School TV programs and the District Communications Office. Programs include, School Board Meetings, sports updates and other important events. WTV is broadcast on Channel 28 on Comcast and Channel 41 on Verizon.

Dress Code

An individual’s dress, personal appearance, and cleanliness have a bearing on how others react to them and therefore should reflect sensitivity to and respect for others.  It should not constitute a threat to safety and health of self or others, or be in violation of any statutes.  Although styles do change, dress should reflect current good taste and a style appropriate for a school day.  The purpose of the dress code is to assure that the school population will dress in a way that is supportive of and not a disruption to, the educational process.

• Those students who desire to wear shorts are responsible for selecting shorts which are loose fitting and long enough to be appropriate school apparel. Shorts, as well as skirts, should be longer than the extended fingertips when arms are held to the side.
• Students must wear apparel that covers the midriff area and underarm areas.  Strapless tops are prohibited and shoulders Clothing with profane or questionable language imprints is unacceptable school apparel.
• Students must wear footwear at all times. Because of safety and sanitation in situations such as chemistry lab, teachers may require more substantial footwear.
• Sunglasses are not to be worn in the school building.
• Hats, hoods, and bandanas are prohibited, except under the terms of specially designated days.  Bandanas displaying “colors” are forbidden in all cases.  Hats and bandanas must be stored in a locker during the day. 
• Pants worn that reveal underwear are not permitted. 
• Any form of attire is subject to evaluation on an individual basis.  Students not in compliance with the dress code will be required to obtain an immediate suitable change of clothing and will face disciplinary action ranging from warning to suspension.  Any student who wears apparel to school deemed inappropriate dress will be referred to the administration for disciplinary action.

Extra-Curricular Clubs and Activities

General Eligibility Requirements

Weekly

In order to be eligible to participate in athletics, the student-athlete must be passing at least 4 credits (PIAA requirement).  This will be checked weekly, and when a student-athlete is not passing 4 credits, they will be notified that there is a one-week probationary period in which to bring up the grade(s).  During this week, the student-athlete may still practice and play.  If the student-athlete is still not passing at least 4 credits after the probationary week, then they are ineligible to practice or play.  Ineligibility continues until the student-athlete is passing 4 or more credits.  The student-athlete should use ELT and Math/Writing labs for support.  (As an incentive to continue working when ineligible, the student-athlete can become eligible if teacher verification shows that they are now passing at least 4 credits.)

End of Each Marking Period

In order to be eligible to participate in athletics, the student-athlete must have passed at least 4 credits in the previous marking period.  If a student-athlete does not meet this requirement, they will be ineligible for the first 15 school days of the new marking period.  For the first marking period of the school year, the final grades from the previous year will be used to check this requirement (not the Fourth marking period grades).

Proactive Component

In an effort to be proactive, supports will be provided to any athlete who has a failing grade in one class. We believe that our student-athletes should not be failing courses, and that a student-athlete should utilize school resources to improve their grades. Extra help is available to all student-athletes in the form of the Math/Writing lab, the after-school ELT program and individual help from the student-athlete’s teacher.

If a student-athlete is failing one class, they will be required to get extra help using one of the resources listed above for a total of 60 minutes (1 hour) for the week.

If a student-athlete is failing two classes, they need to get extra help using one of the resources listed above for a total of 120 minutes (2 hours) for the week.

If a student-athlete is failing three classes, they will be required to get extra help using one of the resources listed above for a total of 180 minutes (3 hours) for the week.

Notes documenting the required help must be turned in to the secretary in the Athletics & Activities Office by noon on Friday of each week. Failure to do so may result in the student-athlete’s removal from competition.

Attendance and Eligibility

Where Enrolled for Attendance

In order to be eligible to participate in any co-curricular activity, a student must be enrolled in a secondary school and in full-time attendance thereafter.

How Absence Affects Eligibility

A student who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of TWENTY OR MORE SCHOOL DAYS shall not be eligible to participate in any athletic activity until they have been in attendance for a total of sixty (60) school days following his twentieth day of absence, except where there is a consecutive illness, injury, quarantine, such absence may be waived from the application of this rule by the PIAA, if a thorough and complete investigation warrants such waiver.  Attendance at summer school does not count toward the sixty days required.  Absence from school for an entire semester, or for several semesters, shall disqualify student for the same period as stated in this section.

Number of Days of Attendance Necessary to count as a Semester

Fifteen (15) days or more of enrollment in a semester in any secondary school shall count as one semester of membership.  Attendance at summer school does not count as a semester.

Daily Attendance

All students are expected to be in school at the start of the day. Students late after 8:30am or absent from school will not be allowed to participate in practice or a contest that day.  Students having early morning doctor’s appointments should clear them with the attendance office the day before to ensure eligibility.

Any student absent from or leaving school early for illness may not participate that day.  Doctor and dentist appointments must be verified by a doctor’s or dentist’s note upon return or arrival for participation.  Parental notes will not be accepted.

Band, Chorus, and other non-athletic clubs or events are also expected to abide by the 8:30AM rule

Student-Athletes in PE Class and Athletics

On any given day, if a student-athlete is unprepared/sick/injured and cannot participate in PE class, then the student-athlete cannot participate in athletics activities that day as well.

Holiday Schedule

Although students are not required to attend school on school holidays, students are expected to participate in their activities.  This may occur due to playoffs, tournaments, and re-scheduling competitions due to inclement weather.

Late Bus Schedule

On Tuesday and Thursday, the late buses will depart at 4:25PM only.  On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday buses will depart at 5:30PM from the Natatorium lobby.

Conduct and Discipline

Students are representatives of the school 24 hours a day.  No group in school receives the publicity that participants in extra-curricular activities receive.  We expect all students to represent themselves, their families, their activity, and their school favorably at all times.

Any participant in an activity in violation of the Wissahickon School District Discipline Code during their active season may be dropped from their respective activity. This decision will be determined by the administration.

Suspension – Any participant who is suspended from classes/school (In-School or Out-of-School) is ineligible for participation in activities during the time of suspension and until the student has returned to regular classes.

Other Requirements

Physical Examination Requirements for Athletics

No student shall be eligible to represent their high school in any interscholastic athletic contest unless they have been examined by a licensed physician of medicine or osteopathy before their first sports season of that academic year.  Before each subsequent sports season of the same academic year, the student shall be reexamined or certified by a physician that their condition is satisfactory before they begin to train or practice the intended sport.

Each athlete must complete an Athletic Eligibility Record form and return it to their coach before the start of practices.

Insurance

All members of athletic teams must have either school or home insurance.  School insurance can be bought at the beginning of the school year.  Students who have home insurance must turn in a waiver form, signed by their parents to the Athletic Office at the beginning of the season.

Equipment

It is the responsibility of each participant in activities to take care of the equipment issued to them.  Any equipment not returned at the end of the activity must be paid for by the student.  Failure to return or pay for equipment will result in withholding all awards and permission to participate in another activity.

Extra-Curricular Programs and Code of Conduct

Students in violation of the district’s drug and alcohol policy in school or at a school activity will be subject to discipline pursuant to the WSD discipline code.  All such violations will be categorized as Level V infractions and will be subject to the discipline outlined in the WHS Student Code of Conduct.  The consequences of our discipline code will be implemented for any drug or alcohol use at school activities during the school year and during the summer.  Students will not be able to participate in any extra-curricular activities throughout the duration of their suspension.

• SAP referral mandatory referral for an Aldersgate Assessment or referral to our Resource Counselor
• 5 mandated meetings with the Guidance Counselor to discuss decision-making
• A meeting/discussion between the parent, student, and administrator
• Possible loss of senior privilege
• Possible loss of other WHS privileges

Food and Drinks

Students are not to carry and/or consume beverages and food in the halls at any time during the day.  The vending machines located throughout the building are for your convenience during your lunch periods and before/after school – not for eating or drinking in the classroom.  Food or drink consumed in any classroom must only occur in that classroom and will not be carried to the next class.  Only a water bottle that is sealed may be brought to school or consumed while on school property.  No coffee, tea or other beverage brought to school will be allowed.  Any opened container or beverage will be confiscated by the teacher and thrown away.  Students are not permitted to place delivery orders for food from an outside vendor during or after school hours.  NOTE:  If bottled water is needed for health reasons, students are to report to the Health Suite for a note granting permission for the water to be permitted in class.

Hall Traffic

Students are required to carry a student agenda and/or pass (all watermarked passes will be the same and used by all teachers) and identification card at all times.

To leave a class or assigned area, the student must be given the permission of the supervising teacher.  If permission is given, the teacher will sign the student agenda/pass which will have the student’s name, date, time, and destination.

After permission is given and the agenda/pass signed, students have the responsibility to report directly to their destination.  If a student is questioned by a teacher or staff member about his/her presence in the hall or destination, the student must show his/her pass.

After reaching their destination, students must have the agenda/pass signed and the time noted by the teacher. Students must return to their original class or area as quickly and quietly as possible.

Students, traveling to the library, guidance, administrative office, or any other area, must be aware of and respect those classes in session.

During passing time between classes, students must go directly to their classrooms.  Standing and loitering between classes causes congestion in the halls especially in the knuckle area (intersection of L, C & D halls).  Students standing and loitering or in the halls after the bell rings will receive detentions or other appropriate discipline.

Any student, without permission from a staff member, who is in a locker room at times other than their scheduled physical education class, will be subject to disciplinary consequences.

Health Services

State-Mandated Immunizations

State required school immunizations are required within the first 5 days of school or your student will not be able to attend school. Any single dose vaccines (Tdap and Meningitis), are required by the first day of school.

In order to protect our school students from serious and sometimes fatal diseases, the Pennsylvania Department of Health regulations require that all students entering school for the first time must be immunized.

All the required doses of immunizations must be completed and verified by your health care provider prior to the student’s entry into school. We ask your cooperation with your school nurse in the process of providing proper record of any immunization already completed and in securing those that are lacking. The only current exemptions to the regulations for immunizations are medical reasons and religious beliefs with proper documentation from your health care provider submitted to school. Please note that if your student is exempt from immunizations, he/she may be removed from school during a communicable disease outbreak.

State-Mandated Physical and Dental Exams

The Pennsylvania School Health Law requires all students upon original entry to the district and when entering sixth grade or eleventh grade to have a physical examination.

Dental Examinations are required for all students upon original entry to the district and when entering third grade and seventh grade. 

All examinations must be completed within one year prior to the new year for which the examination is required.  Families are encouraged to have these examinations performed by the student’s own health care provider.

Please visit the Health Services web page to download and print these forms: https://www.wsdweb.org/departments/health-services  If necessary, you can also contact your school nurse to secure these forms. The completed forms must be returned to the school nurse by October 15th or no later than two months after your student enters the Wissahickon School District.

State-Mandated Health Screenings

Each student will have state mandated screening which includes growth (body mass index), and vision. Hearing is tested in kindergarten, grades 1,2,3,7 and 11 and those in special ungraded classes. We will report deficiencies to you in these tests. These reports should be rechecked by your family health care provider and returned to the school nurse when problems are corrected.

Medical Care in School

Medical care in the schools is limited to first aid for accidents and illness until the parent can be contacted to take the student home or to their personal health care provider or hospital. Emergency information completed by you will give us the information to locate you when needed. It is important to keep this information updated each school year. School nurses are permitted by law to perform only those services written on the Standing Orders of the consulting school physician. Do not expect the school nurse to diagnose or treat illnesses. This is the proper function of your family health care provider.

Absence Due to Illness

Please encourage your student to practice good health habits that will contribute to growth, development, and well-being. These should include a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise and study. When there are signs of illness, your student should stay at home. A physician’s excuse is necessary after an absence of three (3) days.

Notify the School Nurse

It is important to contact the school nurse for these special circumstances.

• If there are restrictions caused by a recent illness, if there are any continuous restrictions on your student’s school activities, or if your student is on daily medication.
• If your student has an allergy to foods, medicines or insect bites. Provide the school nurse a written plan completed by your physician with your approval signature outlining the directions to follow in case of an incident.
• As soon as possible if your student has a confirmed communicable disease to protect the safety and well-being of others.

If your student needs to take medication during the school day, the medication must be brought to the school nurse.  Controlled substances must be brought directly to the nurse by a parent/guardian. All medication must be in its original, properly labeled container with a written prescription by the licensed physician or advanced practice nurse. The prescribing physician/advanced practice nurse must indicate the reason for the medication, dose, time and route, and possible side effects

Epi-Pen Opt Out

The Pennsylvania Public School Code, Section 1414.2 (g) allows parents/guardians to request an exemption to the administration of an epinephrine auto-injector for their student. In order to request this exemption, contact the school nurse to make an appointment to discuss this decision, review and sign the opt-out form.

Homeless Act (McKinney-Vento)

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act guarantees a free and appropriate public education for all homeless students and youth.  B.E. C. 42 U.S.C. 11431 outlines procedures for deciding school placement, enrolling students, and determining responsibility. Federal and state laws make our responsibility clear. (Click here to review Board Policy #235 Homeless Students.)

What situations fit this definition?

• Staying in the home of other people due to unavailable housing, financial hardship, or similar circumstances
• Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks (in some instances- examples: leaking roof, no heat, etc.), public places, or campgrounds due to unavailable suitable housing options
• Living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing
• Living as an unaccompanied (not living in direct care of legal parent or guardian) or runaway youth
• Living as a refugee and migrant youth

Homework

Homework, like any other planned learning activity, should be purposeful and responsive to the needs of the student.  Consideration on the part of the teacher is given to the content, the task, the timeframe, the developmental stage of the learner, and of course, the readiness of the student to successfully accomplish the task independently.  Consideration is given to “homework free” times that coincide with holidays, vacations, testing times, and special school events.  No homework shall be assigned (without advance notice) nor assessments given on the day immediately following a religious holiday.

Make-Up Work

When students are legally absent from school, assignments and tests that are missed during the period of absence are to be made up as soon as possible upon the student’s return to school.  The guiding principle for make-up work is two days for every one day of absence.  It is the student’s responsibility to arrange the schedule with each of their teachers.  Failure to do so may result in losing credit for the work.  A student will not be given an opportunity to complete work missed because of truancy and illegal/unexcused absences from class.  This includes class cuts.

In the event the report period ends before the work is completed, an “I” (meaning “incomplete”) will be recorded on the report card. Incompletes must be made up within two weeks after the date of report card distribution.  Otherwise, zeros will be recorded for the work that was missed.  For cases of prolonged illness, the period of make-up work may be extended by the classroom teacher when requested by the student.  In the cases of prolonged illness, work may be provided by the classroom teacher for the student to do at home during the absence.  Parents should contact the appropriate guidance counselor and allow for three days to process the request.

Requirements and procedures for Physical Education will be distributed to each student at the beginning of the school year.  Included in the document for students and parents will be procedures and requirements for make-up of PE classes missed due to excused absence.

Inclement Weather or Other Emergency Notifications

In the event of inclement weather or a school emergency that results in early dismissal, late arrival of students or the closing of schools, the district notifies the community via:

• School Messenger phone call, text message and email (For families with students who currently attend Wissahickon schools only)
• WSD Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
• Pop-up message on the district homepage
• Push notification via the WSD mobile app (please allow push notifications from the WSD mobile app)
• TV Stations 3, 6, 10 and 29
• KYW NewsRadio - School Closing Number 314

Please note: schools are open unless otherwise notified via the methods above. Periodically, review your contact information (phone and email) listed in Infinite Campus as this information is used for School Messenger - our school notification system.

Calling the School’s Main Office During Emergency Conditions

It is extremely important that telephone lines to the school office be kept open for emergency use only.  Students and parents/guardians are asked not to call the school office at times of emergency conditions. 

Lockers

Each student has an individual hall locker assigned for the school year for personal belongings and school materials.  It is each student’s responsibility to keep the locker clean and in good order.  To help guard against loss of material, do not give your combination to any other student and keep your locker locked. Students may not share lockers.  Students may not display materials on or in lockers without prior administrative approval.  Students are encouraged to use lockers before school, before lunch and after school.  Students involved in after-school activities are to get any materials needed for home that night, immediately after school.  Students are not permitted in the corridor to go to lockers after activities.

Any problems you have with your locker should be reported to the Scheduling office.  Lockers are school property and are subject to inspection by the school administration, at any time and for any reason.

MySchoolBucks

MySchoolBucks is an online payment service that provides parents the ability to pay for school fees, student purchases and more. WMS uses MySchoolBucks to help collect money (in addition to continuing to collect cash and check payments) for various events throughout the school year. 

If you are already using MySchoolBucks to pay for school meals, your account is already set-up and ready to go. If you need a new account, please follow the steps below:

• Go to www.MySchoolBucks.com  and register for a free account.
• Add your students using their school name and student ID.
• Make purchases with your credit/debit card or electronic check. *
• A program fee may apply.  You will have the opportunity to review any fees and cancel if you choose, before you are charged. 

Obligations

Obligations include money owed for textbooks, library books, and other school materials, sports equipment not returned, and other individual student responsibilities which have not been completed, such as submission of the emergency form or required Eleventh grade physical exam.  Inability to meet obligations must be discussed with the appropriate Assistant Principal. 

Failure to fulfill obligations will result in denial of participation in school activities, field trips, Summer School, and Commencement.

Parent and Community Involvement

The Wissahickon School District recognizes the importance and value of interest and involvement by citizens of the school community in the programs of the district.  Many residents have readily volunteered their services in assisting with programs and projects that have helped to enrich the educational experience of our students. As opportunities arise, principals will use their discretion to utilize volunteers. To ensure the safety of our students and staff and to comply with Public School Code, all volunteers must comply with the district policies and procedures, including required disclosure forms, clearances, and training.

Home and School Associations

Each school has an active and supportive Home and School Association (H&SA). The H&SAs coordinate school and classroom activities and events and provides funding for school programs (i.e., activities, events, and assemblies). Families are encouraged to become members of their school’s H&SA. As members, families may participate in monthly meetings and volunteer in the school. 

School Volunteers

Wissahickon School District values the contributions that volunteers make to the educational programs of our schools and encourages parents and community members to volunteer.

Families and community members who are interested in volunteering in our schools are invited to review the procedures and requirements as outlined below. For the safety of our students and staff, all persons who are interested in volunteering in our schools are required to comply with these volunteer eligibility procedures in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Volunteers who do not comply with these requirements are not eligible to volunteer.

As always, thank you for your contribution of time, talent, resources and support. We appreciate your willingness to volunteer in our schools and hope you know how much your efforts mean to our staff and students! For specific questions, please contact the main office of your student's school. Click here for more information about the volunteer procedures in the Wissahickon School District: https://www.wsdweb.org/parent-hub/volunteers

Step #1: Complete and submit the required documentation. All volunteer documentation is submitted to the main office of your student's school. Any costs associated with procuring these clearances are the responsibility of the volunteer.

WSD Volunteer Disclosure Statement (required for new and returning volunteers, annually)

Act 34 State Police Clearance (required for new volunteers; must be renewed every five (5) years)

Complete this clearance online and download/print your results immediately. Please save the Control Number provided. 

Act 151 Child Abuse Clearance (required for new volunteers; must be renewed every five (5) years)

Complete this clearance online and download/print your results immediately. You may also receive your results by mail within 14 days. 

Act 114 FBI Fingerprints (required for new volunteers; must be renewed every five (5) years)

Note: if the person has resided in Pennsylvania for ten (10) consecutive years prior to the date listed on the Volunteer Disclosure Statement, then the person does not need to submit the Act 114 FBI Fingerprints clearance. There is a check box at the end of the Volunteer Disclosure Statement to indicate residency.

• Enter your service code (1KG6Y3 for Volunteering)
• Complete registration process
• Select a location & appointment time.
• Print the pre-enrollment form to take to your appointment.

Step #2 - New Volunteers Only: Once the volunteer documents are received and reviewed by the District, the volunteer will receive an email with instructions and information to complete the required online training through the Global Compliance Network (GCN). This email will contain step-by-step instructions, username information, and a direct link to complete the training. The volunteers will need approximately 20-30 minutes to complete this online training.

School Visitors

All visitors must enter the building through the main entrance and proceed directly to the office; visitors will sign in, show identification, and receive a visitor's pass.  This pass must be worn in a prominent place at all times while in the building.  At the end of the visit, please return to the office, sign out and return the pass.  At no time are parents or visitors to enter the school building and go directly to their student's classroom or any other area of the building.  We value the health, safety, and welfare of our students.  Therefore, in an effort to protect our students, all staff members will be required to ask anyone they see in the building for the visitor's badge.  Staff members will respectfully direct any person without a badge to the office.

Parental interest in the educational process is the lifeline of school performance. Occasionally, a parent or guardian may request the opportunity to visit the classroom. These visits must be arranged in advance with your student’s teacher and school principal.

In addition, it should be understood after 8:30 AM that no visitors may interrupt the instructional process by taking a teacher's attention away from the students while classes are in session.  Security of the building and the safety of our students are our top priority.

• Visitors shall sign the visitor log located in the main office area and receive a visitor’s badge which must be worn in a visible location at all times while the visitor is present in a District building.  Wissahickon requires all visitors to provide a photo ID (e.g. driver’s license) for entrance into the building.
• Visitors should turn off all cell phones while inside the building.
• Infants and young students are not allowed into the classroom during a visit as this can be disruptive to the learning process.
• Visitors should enter the classroom quietly and take a seat as suggested by the teacher.
• Visitors should not attempt to communicate with the teacher or the students during instructional time. It is important that classroom activities continue as planned by the teacher.
• Visitors should not view student work such as journals, logs, folders, etc. unless the work is authored by their own student. This is to protect the confidentiality of all students in the classroom. Visitors shall report to the Main Office area and sign out on the visitor’s log before leaving the District building.

Personal Items

Students are advised neither to bring unnecessary personal items to school nor to carry large amounts of cash.  Students should not transfer money to other students.  Electronic audio, gaming, or recording devices are not to be brought to school.  Students are responsible for securing any personal items they bring to school in their assigned locker.  Students are also responsible for securing their personal items in the gym locker rooms.  The school accepts no responsibility and cannot guarantee against loss of such items due to theft or carelessness. However, if an item of value is lost or stolen, you should immediately report it to the supervising teacher, security officer, and/or Assistant Principal.  Book bags and/or backpacks are the responsibility of the student and are subject to be inspected by the high school administration. 

Personal Electronic Devices

Cell phones, and audio, gaming, and recording devices are allowed during school hours, but only during study hall, lunches, and in the hallway during a passing period. The use of the electronic device should not be disruptive to other students or staff. None of these devices should be used in classrooms without express consent from the classroom teacher as part of instruction.  Students will be required to put their cell phone in a phone hotel upon entering the classroom.

Students should not text students that are in class nor should they call/text home about leaving school without first seeing the nurse or the Attendance Office.

Cell phones and headphones of any type must be put away immediately upon entering the class. Students should not be listening to music, texting, or making phone calls as they enter the classroom.

No electronic device should be used for recording (video, audio, or picture) students and staff at school.  Electronic devices are also not to be used to cyberbully fellow students.

Lost and Found

Lost articles that are found should be turned in to the Lost and Found in the Main Office.  Loss of articles should be reported to administration, security or a teacher if the item is related to a specific class.

Pledge of Allegiance

The Pledge of Allegiance is recited each day in homeroom.  Although students may decline to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and may refrain from saluting the flag on the basis of personal belief or religious convictions, the rights and interests of students who wish to participate shall be respected.

School Dances

All dances held at Wissahickon High School will begin at 7:30 p.m. and end at 10:00 p.m. (except semi-formal & Jr./Sr. Prom). Ninth grade students are not permitted to attend the Jr./Sr. Prom. All students must complete a Dance Contract prior to purchasing tickets. All students must arrive at the dance prior to 8:00 p.m. (Jr./Sr. Prom by 9:00 p.m.).  Students arriving after this time will not be permitted to attend the dance.

For all school dances, tickets will be sold in advance.  Tickets will NOT be sold at the door. Students must present their ticket and proper ID to gain entrance into the dance. All school rules apply at all dances including those involving appropriate dress. Chaperones have the right to search any handbags, book bags, or large parcels. Students are encouraged not to bring these items to a dance.  Any bags brought to a dance will be searched upon entry and made unavailable until the conclusion of the dance. School authorities maintain the right to prohibit music that is not consistent with the mission of the District. Inappropriate or suggestive dancing or behavior will not be tolerated.  Individuals who do not conform will be removed from the dance (w/o refund), parents will be notified, and the student will be unable to attend any other dance for the remainder of the school year.  Additional disciplinary consequences may also be imposed. Students may not leave Wissahickon High School sponsored dances early without administrative approval. Students are not permitted to leave the dance and return. Wissahickon High School is not responsible for articles lost or stolen at a dance. Personal items of significant value should not be brought to the dance. If there is reasonable suspicion that a student or guest of a student is under the influence of alcohol, the student may be required to take a breathalyzer test to determine if the suspicion is accurate. The breathalyzer is administered by police. We trust that the expectations as outlined above will be successfully met by the students.  However, in the event the group behaviors at a dance are deemed inappropriate, the administration reserves the right to end the dance and send students home without a refund.

Students with excessive absences (including class cuts) or lateness to school or students who have documented behavioral concerns will not be permitted to attend school dances (including Junior/Senior Prom).

Drugs and Alcohol

The use, possession, transportation or distribution of any narcotic or controlled substance (drug) or alcoholic intoxicants (alcohol) on school property, or in connection with a school sponsored activity at which students are present, are prohibited (WSD Policy #227).

When a chaperone or security officer suspects a student to be in violation of Policy #227, it will be reported to the administrator or dance supervisor immediately.

If the student is found not to be in violation of Policy #227, that student will be returned to the dance.

If the student is found to be in violation of the drug and alcohol policy, he or she will be treated under the guidelines of Policy #227.  A parent/guardian may be called to come to the dance to escort their child home. Police may be contacted at the discretion of the administrator.

Students who have been questioned by school authorities and maintain they are not in violation of the policy but are still under suspicion, will be turned over to the Lower Gwynedd Police for further investigation and appropriate action.  Students found by the police not to be in violation of drug and/or alcohol use will be returned to the dance.  A student found to be “under the influence” of drugs and/or alcohol will be treated by Policy #227 as well as face appropriate legal action.

Non-Wissahickon students suspected of drug and alcohol violations will be turned over to the Lower Gwynedd Police in accordance with Policy #227.

Guests

No guests will be permitted to attend all-school fall/spring dances. Guests will only be permitted to attend the semi-formal and prom.  Each WHS student may sponsor one guest. Each student will need to complete the guest portion of the dance contract and include the name of the school the guest attends.

School Safety and Security

Please review our dedicated webpage related to safety in our schools: https://www.wsdweb.org/about-wsd/school-safety

School Resource Officer (SRO)

Wissahickon School District along with Lower Gwynedd Township Police Department provide additional security by way of a School Resource Officer.  The SRO is a police officer assigned to the Wissahickon High School, Wissahickon Middle School and Lower Gwynedd Elementary School.  The purpose of the SRO is to provide support, public relations and on-site information to students, staff and community.

Safe2Say

Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program run by the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. The program teaches youth and adults how to recognize warning signs and signals, especially within social media, from individuals who may be a threat to themselves or others and to “say something” BEFORE it is too late. With Safe2Say Something, it’s easy and confidential to report safety concerns to help prevent violence and tragedies. For more information, visit https://www.wsdweb.org/about-wsd/school-safety/safe2say-something

Here’s how it works:

• Submit an anonymous tip report through the Safe2SaySomething system
• Crisis center reviews, assesses and processes all submissions
• Crisis center sends all submissions to school administration and/or law enforcement for intervention
• If needed, crisis center may contact tipster anonymously through the app

School Schedule

School Start and End Times

For the 2022-2023 school year, the school day for students begins at 7:37 a.m. and ends at 2:35 p.m.

Bell Schedules

Click here to view the bell schedules for the 2022-2023 school year for regular days and modified days (i.e., half days, delayed openings). 

Senior Privilege

Twelfth grade students who have a scheduled study hall during first session or Seventh session of either semester may be approved for “Senior Privilege” allowing them to arrive to school late or be dismissed from school early.  Paperwork is available in the Administrative Suite and students deemed eligible will be given a Senior Privilege Card.  Students must reapply for Senior Privilege each semester.

Student Accident Insurance

School Accident Insurance is made available to all students on a voluntary basis.  All students will receive letters to take home to parents explaining the school’s responsibilities in case of student accidents.  Students who are candidates for athletic teams will be given forms to be completed by parents.  Claim forms for accidents and injuries may be obtained from the nurse and are to be returned to the insurance company by parents.

Student Behavior

Self-discipline and the acceptance of individual responsibility are stressed throughout school life.  A fair, consistent discipline policy is an integral part of our sound educational program.  A major goal of the school program is to maintain the best possible environment for learning.  To reach this goal it is important that all members of our school family respect the basic rights of others.  All students are to attend school free of physical or verbal abuse and to feel secure with their own property. Click here to review the Code of Student Conduct: https://www.wsdweb.org/parent-hub/code-of-student-conduct

The following list has been developed to further clarify infractions and disciplinary responses. Responses will follow the WSD Code of Student Conduct. It is hoped that such a list will help to promote a fair and consistent discipline system. The list is not intended to be exclusive or all inclusive. Interpretation of it is left to the discretion of the individual building administrators.  There will be communication to the parent/guardian for all disciplinary offenses.

Care of School Property / Vandalism

Every student should make it their personal responsibility to keep the school in good condition for all members of the school community. Students who vandalize or destroy school property will be assessed for damages and replacement costs and will face suspension from school and other legal actions, including referral to police authorities.

Cheating/Plagiarism

Cheating and plagiarism are prohibited and will not be tolerated. Cheating is committing fraud and/or deception on an assignment, test, quiz, or other course requirement. Documentation of Cheating/Plagiarism incidents will be maintained in writing with student’s name, grade level, date of incident, and description of offense.  A copy of the incident record will be provided to parent/guardian and student. Students and parents/guardians will be asked to sign documentation, which will be maintained by grade level administrator until the end of the year. Repeat offenses include those that occur in other subject areas within the same school year. Examples of cheating include, but are not limited to:

• Copying from another person’s test or assignment
• Discussing answers or content on a test
• Using notes or other information devices not specifically allowed by the classroom teacher
• Plagiarism is representing someone else’s ideas, words or other work as your own.  Examples of plagiarism include, but are not limited to:
• Copying word for word or phrases or paraphrasing from a source without proper citation
• Using someone else’s thought or idea and representing it as your own
• Using facts or statistics without proper citation
• For many writing assignments, students will be required to sign a pledge not to plagiarize prior to submission. Any student who cheats or plagiarizes will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.
• The administration reserves the right to render a final decision. Repeat offenses include those that occur in other subject areas within the same school year.

Cutting Class

Unexcused class cutting will have a negative overall effect on your classroom achievement and school citizenship. Response: Lunch detention equivalent to the amount of missed class minutes.  Completion of missed assignment (s), reflection, and/or write a note to the teacher about choices moving forward.

Fighting and/or Physical Force

The school has a compelling interest in maintaining a safe, orderly environment which is supportive of its educational purpose. Students who engage in fighting and/or acts of physical force face an immediate and firm disciplinary response from administration. Students identified for fighting or whom engage in reckless behavior that creates a hazard to others are suspended out of school for 3-10 days and referred to the Lower Gwynedd Police Department for a citation and fine.  Students may also be encouraged to participate in mediation.

• First offense: 3-10 day out-of-school suspension and referral to police
• Second offense: Recommendation for expulsion for one or both of the participants and referral to police

Forgery

Any student caught forging the signature of a WSD staff member or parent or guardian will receive the following

• first offense: Up to one (1) day of In-School Suspension
• Future offenses: Incremental application of In-School and/or Out-of-School Suspension

Harassment (Including Sexual Harassment)

Harassment refers to student(s) who engage in a course of conduct or repeatedly commit acts which alarm or seriously annoy other person(s) and which serve no legitimate purpose. When a student believes that they are being harassed on school grounds, at a school activity, or on their way to or from school, the student should immediately inform the harasser that the behavior is unwelcome, offensive, or inappropriate. The student should also report the unwelcome or inappropriate behavior to an administrator, counselor, nurse, or teacher.

Unlawful harassment includes but is not limited to the following examples:

• A person shoves, kicks, strikes, or otherwise subjects another person to physical contact or attempts or threatens to do the same; a person follows another person or places another person in reasonable fear of bodily injury and/or emotional distress.
• Offensive slurs, jokes, or other verbal, graphic, or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability which create an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.
• Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  (For further clarification, please refer to Board Policy #348.)
• first offense:  All parties involved receive official warnings to cease and desist the harassing behavior. At an administrator’s discretion, certain instances of harassment may be immediately reported to the Lower Gwynedd Police Department for investigation.
• Future offenses: Further incidences of harassment will result in school disciplinary action and may be reported to the Lower Gwynedd Police Department for investigation and/or citation.

Hazing

Hazing is defined as any situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental health, physical health or safety of a student, or which willfully destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation, admission into, continued membership, or affiliation with any organization recognized by the Board.  Any hazing activity, whether by an individual or group, shall be presumed to be a “forced” activity even if a student willingly participates.

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe, positive environment for students and staff that is free from hazing. Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the Wissahickon School District and are prohibited at all times.  District administrators will investigate promptly all complaints of hazing and administer appropriate discipline to any individual who violates this policy. Hazing activities which are criminal in nature will be reported to local police officials.

(For further clarification, please refer to Board Policy #247.)

Lateness to Class

Student will be considered cutting class if late to class by five (5) or more minutes.

• First offense: Student/teacher conference and warning
• Second offense: Parental contact
• Third offense: After-school detention
• Future offenses: Incremental application of detention, in-school and out-of-school suspension, administrator/parent conference

Use of Obscene Language, Gestures, and/or Ethnic or Racial Slurs

The use of obscene language, gestures, and/or ethnic or racial slurs will not be tolerated. Any student who violates this policy will be subject to the following disciplinary action:

• First offense: After-school detention and restorative practice
• Future offenses: Incremental application of In-School and Out-of-School Suspension; Parent Conference
• Infractions of this policy may result in a referral to the Lower Gwynedd Township Police Department and the issuance of a citation and fine.

Physical Contact with WHS Staff

Intentional physical contact with Wissahickon High School Staff is prohibited.  Incidents of this nature will result in Out-of-School suspension and possible referral to Lower Gwynedd Township Police department, which may result in the issuance of a citation and fine.

Theft

Any student involved in theft (stealing, buying, selling, or possession of stolen property) on school property will receive, at minimum, an Out-of-School suspension and the incident will be reported to the Lower Gwynedd Police Department.

Tobacco Products on School Property

Wissahickon policy forbids the possession or use of cigarettes, vapor products and paraphernalia, cigars, chewing tobacco, pipes, lighters, or matches during the school day on all school property (this includes the building, parking lots, and buses). While this includes the actual school boundaries, it may extend to that portion of the community, which we deem necessary.  It is our responsibility to maintain a positive relationship with the community at large.  We therefore maintain certain limits so that this harmony will not be disrupted.  Specifically, this refers to those areas of the community across the street from our school property. (For further clarification, please refer to Board Policy #223.)

• First offense: 1-10 day Out-of-School Suspension; referral to District Court and/or participation in a nicotine cessation program.  Participation and successful completion of a nicotine cessation program will result in elimination of the citation for first-time offenders.
• Future offenses: Incremental application of out-of-school suspension; referral to District Court

Weapons on School Property

Any student determined to have possessed, handled, or transmitted a weapon onto school premises, at any school-sponsored activity, or on any public or private conveyance providing transportation to or from a school or school-sponsored activity shall be expelled for a period not less than one (1) year.  The district Superintendent may, however, recommend a lesser discipline on a case-by-case basis.

Any student determined to have possessed, handled, or transmitted a facsimile weapon onto school premises, at any school-sponsored activity, or on any public or private conveyance providing transportation to or from a school or school-sponsored activity shall also be subject to discipline which may include any sanction up to and including expulsion from school.

The discovery of any weapon prohibited by this policy will be reported to the Lower Gwynedd Police Department.  The term “weapon” shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchakus, firearm, shotgun, rifle, and any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily harm.  The term “facsimile weapon” shall include all instruments or implements resembling or intended to resemble a weapon. (For further clarification, please refer to Board Policy #218.1)

Consequences

Detention: Detentions are assigned to address and correct improper or chronic misbehavior.  The administration regards reporting to an assigned detention as a serious matter.  If a student chooses not to report or openly refuse to attend detention, disciplinary action will be taken.

Teacher Detention: Teachers may assign students to private detention for lateness to class, violations of classroom procedures and disruptive behavior.  Students will be dismissed in time for the activity bus.

After School Detention: In some cases of violation of school rules and procedures, school detentions will be assigned by the Assistant Principals or the other Administrative Personnel.  After school detentions will be held each Tuesday and Thursday from 2:45 until 4:15PM.  Students are required to arrive on time and to spend the detention time doing schoolwork.

Saturday School Detention: Students must report to Saturday detention no later than 8:00AM.  At 8:00AM the doors will be locked and attendance will be taken.  Students are required to come prepared to do school related work.  Students should report to the lower cafeteria and will then be escorted to the appropriate classroom.  Parents will be notified at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of assignment.  Transportation to school and home again will be the responsibility of the student and parents.  Missing a Saturday Detention without prior administrative approval will result in suspension.

Cutting Detention

• Cut after-school detention: Saturday detention (2 hrs.)
• Cut Saturday detention – first offense: In School suspension
• Cut Saturday detention – Second offense: Out-of-School suspension

Student Responsibilities: teacher detention takes precedence over school detention.  If you are assigned detention by a teacher, you are to report to that teacher immediately after school on the assigned day in the designated room.  The ONLY exception to this will be when a student can produce a legitimate reason as to why he/she cannot attend.  Whatever decision the teacher is willing to make will prevail.  Any student who disregards the above procedure will be subject to detention and/or suspension.

Suspension – In-School: when assigned, students are to report to the In-School Suspension (ISS) room for a day of silent study beginning at 7:37 AM.  Work will be procured from teachers in advance.  Students must serve the entire day in the ISS room.  Students are not permitted to attend North Montco Technical Career Center and are not extended privileges on days serving In-School Suspension.  Students are also ineligible to participate in extra-curricular activities and must leave school immediately upon dismissal on days serving In-School Suspension.  Failure to comply with the In-School Suspension policies will result in an Out-of-School Suspension

Suspension – Out-of-School: a student who is suspended out-of-school should remain indoors and under parental supervision.  They may not participate in any school activity, nor be on school property.  The student is responsible for making up any school work during the period of suspension.  Exams and tests should be made up following the student’s return to school.  Students who participate in extra-curricular activities and are suspended from school may not participate until the next school day.  Suspended students may be precluded from participating in National Honor Society, depending on the infraction.

Loss of Privileges: Any student who has accumulated a total of 3 or more suspensions (ISS or OSS) may lose the following privileges, including but not limited to:  field trips, dances, school-related activities, Senior Privilege and/or parking privileges.  Additionally, any student who has been assigned in school or out of school suspension may be eliminated from NHS consideration.

Student Presence After School

Students remaining after school must be involved in a school activity and under the direct supervision of a staff member.  Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES are students to loiter in the building when the school activity is completed.  When the school activity is completed, students are to report to the Natatorium Lobby and await arrival of the activity buses. 

Student Services

The Wissahickon School District has an extensive array of regular and special education programs and services that provide the opportunity for all students to achieve the ultimate benefit from their educational experience, including:

• Social Work Services
• Psychological Services
• Clinical Support Counseling
• Speech and language, occupational, physical, vision and hearing therapies, as well as assistive devices, provided to eligible students
• Services for students receiving support through a Section 504 Service Agreement
• Services for students receiving support through specially designed instruction via an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
• Services for students receiving support through a Gifted Individualized Education Plan (GIEP)

Child Study Team (CST)

The Wissahickon Student Assistance Program is an intervention program established within the Wissahickon School District.  The members are selected school personnel who have been trained to identify and refer “high risk” students who may be involved with alcohol and other drugs to appropriate local agencies for assessment and possible rehabilitation programs.  The team works closely with the grade level administrators who are in charge of disciplinary matters and the appropriate guidance counselors.  The team also provides faculty in-servicing and parental and community agency involvement.  The concept and function of the program are similar to Employee Assistance Programs in business and industry.  The core membership consists of a school nurse, guidance counselors, and high school teachers.  At present, teams are functioning at the high school and middle school.  A school administrator meets regularly with each team.

School Counselors                           

• Antoinette Perrotta – Students with the following last names A-Dh (Class of ’23-’25); A-Dd (Class of ’26)
• Cailin Diebolt – Students with the following last names Di-Ho, Autistic/Functional Support (Class of ’23-’25); De-H, ELL, Autistic/Functional Support (Class of ’26)
• Marissa Samit – Students with the following last names Hp-Mc (Class of ’23-’25); I-Mc (Class of ’26)
• Vince Yasenchak – Students with the following last names Md-Sb (All grades)
• Felicia Glover – Students with the following last names Sc-Z (All grades)
• Stacy Anderson, College & Career Counselor
• Cassandra Allen, Resource Counselor
• Lucy Gil, School Psychologist

Student Records

All official student records (roll books, progress reports, cumulative folders, test data sheets, concert programs, etc.) must list students by their legal names only.  This means the name that appears on the birth certificate or other legal document. At no time is it permissible for any school authority to use any other name on official student records, for example, a nickname or a surname of a stepparent where the student’s name has not been legally changed.

Change of Student Information

Parents/guardians are responsible for reporting to the school office any change of address, telephone number or other pertinent information that may occur during the school year.  As soon as such a change occurs, the school should be notified.  We must have current information in order to notify you should an emergency occur.

Student Identification             

Once student photo IDs are issued following Picture Day in the fall, all students will be required to carry their ID card.  IDs are issued in the fall only and cannot be replaced.

Students of Divorced Parents/Guardians with Custody Decree

At registration time, the parent/guardian must present the custody document to the school principal.  The school district will follow the terms of the custody decree specifically.  A copy of the document will be maintained in the student’s school file. It is the responsibility of the parent(s) to ensure that the custody agreement language is clear so that the administrator is able to understand the expectation.  

Students of Single, Separated or Divorced Parents/Guardians with No Custody Decree

Both parents/guardians will be allowed equal access to the student as well as to all data pertaining to the student:  educational and health records, the right to attend parent/guardian conferences and school activities.  The parent/guardian with whom the student is living will routinely receive all communications regarding their student.  The nonresident parent/guardian may request in writing the same information.  This request should be addressed to the building principal.  The District will make reasonable efforts to comply with such requests.

Parents/guardians will be notified and urged to attend meetings pertaining to special education placement, discussions pertaining to promotion or retention, suspensions, expulsions or other serious disciplinary matters.  Therefore, it will be the parents’/guardians’ responsibility to keep the school information of their current addresses and phone numbers.

The parent/guardian with whom the student is living will be notified in the event of serious accidents.  If this parent/guardian is not available, the person(s) listed in the student information system will be contacted based on the listed emergency priority.  The nonresident parent/guardian may request in writing that he/she be notified in the event of a serious accident.  The district will make reasonable efforts to comply with such requests.

Substitute Teachers

From time to time it becomes necessary for a teacher to be absent from school because of illness or for personal reasons.  When this occurs, a substitute teacher is called upon to come into our school to continue the program as outlined by the absent teacher.  The substitute teachers who are called into our school are well qualified and experienced in their field.  With your complete cooperation in class, a substitute teacher may continue the regular instructional program.  If you are sent out of the class by any substitute for not cooperating (e.g., class disruption, rudeness or defiance), school discipline will be enforced.

Technology Resources

Email for Students

Students at Wissahickon have access to WSD district-provided email with the ability to email to and from anyone else with an @wsdweb.org email address. Emails to and from other email addresses are not permitted. Student email addresses follow this format: username@wsdweb.org (ex: 22dkrause@wsdweb.org).   

Remember that this email is to be used for communication for school purposes only and that any abuse of this could result in consequences in accordance with the WSD Code of Conduct.

Acceptable Use of Student Electronic Resources

Students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner in accordance with district policy, acceptable rules on network etiquette, and federal and state laws.  The term “network” in the following statements pertains to any technological devices owned and maintained by the school district. Specifically, the following activities are prohibited. Students will follow all rules listed in  WSD Board Policy #256 Acceptable Use of District Information and Telecommunication Resources. Also included with these prohibited activities is the discipline action that will be taken, according to the should there be a violation of the Acceptable Use Policy for Technology.

Infinite Campus

All parents/guardians are asked to set up their Infinite Campus Parent Portal account. Your family's contact information in Infinite Campus is used to communicate urgent notifications such as weather delays, closings or emergencies. It is essential for parents/guardians to maintain current contact information including preferred email and phone numbers. Infinite Campus is the district's web-based student information portal that contains family contact information and includes various student information including:

• Attendance and discipline
• Report cards
• Health information
• Teacher assignments and class schedule
• Other school activities (middle and high school)

Schoology

All teachers in grades 6-12 use Schoology (pronounced /skoo-luh-jee/) - an online tool that serves as a one-stop shop for course information, assignments, grades and other learning related information. Teachers also use it to post updates to their class and school administration posts important notifications such as upcoming events.

Parents can register for a Schoology account that is linked with their children's accounts. One username and password within Schoology grants access to your child(ren)’s teachers, courses, schoolwork and grades.

Help Desk

In an effort to provide a high level of service, the district has given students access to an online help desk system. They can enter a ticket describing the problem they are experiencing, and the technology department will contact the student directly with troubleshooting information. If the problem is severe, the tech department will suggest a time for the student to report to the tech office. This process limits the amount of class time missed due to waiting in line at the tech office.

Transgender and Gender Expansive Students

In an effort to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, the Wissahickon School District has adopted Board Policy No. 261. (Click here to review Board Policy #261 Transgender and Gender Expansive Students.) 

Translation and Interpretation Services

The Wissahickon School District offers free language assistance services to limited English proficiency parents or guardians. Translation and interpreter services are available by contacting the principal of your student’s school. If you have not already completed a Home Language Survey, the Home Language Survey is available from the District’s Registrar and, upon request, a hard copy or interpretation of the Home Language Survey may be obtained in the language that you can understand. If you have any questions or concerns regarding parent communications or access to interpreter or translation services, please contact your student’s building principal.

Transportation

Bus Transportation

The bus driver is in charge of the bus and represents the School District.  All students are under the full authority of the school while on the bus and at the school bus stop.  Therefore, all school regulations are in force during all bus trips.  The Wissahickon School District Code is in force at all times and complements the regulations and penalties indicated below. Riding a school bus is a privilege and, if necessary, the privilege can be revoked. Students must:

• Stand back from the curb and off the street, away from traffic.
• Ride on assigned bus only.
• Remain in their seats until destination has been reached and the bus is stopped (changing seats is not permitted).
• Sit in assigned seats if the driver or principal finds such procedure necessary.
• Avoid all unnecessary conversation with the driver.
• Talk only in low conversational voice with seat partner (loud talking or calling to persons in other portions of the bus is forbidden).
• Keep the bus clean and free from litter at all times.
• Keep hands, head and feet inside the bus at all times.
• Leave the bus at assigned stop only.
• Walk only on the left side of the road, facing traffic.
• Obey and respect the orders of the bus driver.
• Respect the private property of others (playing games is not permitted at the bus stop).
• Not consume food or beverages while on the bus.
• Refrain from throwing anything on the bus or out the bus window.
• Use civil language at all times (obscene and vulgar talk is absolutely forbidden).
• Not possess tobacco products, vapor products, lighters or matches on the bus.
• Refrain from marring the bus in any way (any person willfully damaging a bus will be held responsible for the vandalism).
• School discipline will be enforced for improper bus behavior.

Title IX & Non-Discrimination Information

The Wissahickon School District affirms that no person shall, on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, age, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, veteran’s status or genetic information be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in any educational program or activity. In addition, no person shall, on any of these bases, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in employment, or recruitment, or consideration, or selection, therefore, whether full-time or part-time, under any educational program or activity operated by the district. The district shall make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Anti-Harassment/Anti-Retaliation Statement: The district does not tolerate sexual harassment. Any individual who believes they have been subjected to sexual harassment is strongly encouraged to make a report which will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Retaliation against individuals who file complaints about sexual harassment, or participate in the investigation of such complaints, is strictly prohibited.

Students or staff found to have engaged in sexual harassment or retaliation will be promptly disciplined, and such discipline may include, if circumstances warrant, suspension, expulsion and/or termination. Students, parents and staff are encouraged to work together to prevent sexual harassment.

Notice of Non-Discrimination: Pursuant to Title IX of the Education Amendment Act of 1972, the district does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education programs or activities that it operates. This requirement not to discriminate in the district’s education programs and activities extends to employment with and admission to the district.

Designated Title IX Coordinator: In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendment Act of 1972, the district has a designated Title IX Coordinator who should be contacted regarding any inquiries as to the application of Title IX or filing a harassment complaint.

Please contact Danielle Hey, Director of Human Resources, Title IX Coordinator/Compliance Officer by phone (215) 619-8000 ext. 1215.  

In addition to contacting the district’s Title IX Coordinator to file a report of harassment, all students and parents may report allegations of harassment to the applicable building principal. Please refer to:
Board Policy 103 Nondiscrimination in School and Classroom Practices
Board Policy 104 Non Discrimination in Employment Practices