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Baxter Academy for Technology and Science

Student Handbook 2023-2024 Revised August 2023

Table of Contents Forward

School Contacts

Statement of Inclusion

Baxter Mission and Vision Statement Baxpectations” or the Profile of the Baxter Graduate

6 6

Baxtitution

Baxter Dispositions of Learning

Habits of Work And Learning (HOWLs)

Academic Policies and Reporting Academic Reporting Calendar

8 9

Evaluation By Course And By Standard

Flex Friday Assessment of Flex Friday

11 11

Communicating with Teachers

PowerSchool

Family Engagement

Attendance Policies

Absence Policy

Excused Absences & Chronic Absenteeism

Unexcused Absences

Tardiness: School Begins at 8:25 Anytime/Anywhere Learning

13 13

Truancy

Dismissals Dismissal Procedure for 18-Year Old Students

14 14

School Calendar, Daily Schedule, Cancellations

School Closings & Snow Day Learning Program

Daily Schedule

Professional Dress

Lunch Program

Transportation Student Parking

17 17

Student Pick-Up and Drop-Off by Private Vehicle Policy

Pick-Up & Drop-Off Map

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

School Buses

Public Transportation

Baxter Digital Citizenship Expectations

Campus-wide Technology Expectations Social Media and Cell Phone Policy

22 22

Tech Support

Care of School Technology

School Issued Laptops Personal Computer Use

23 23

Technology Fee

Open Campus

Visitors

Student Fee Policy

Student Services & Activities

Student Records: Annual Notification of Rights

Special Education and Section 504

Student IDs

School Counselors

Social Workers

Child Find

Extracurricular Opportunities Internships, Partnerships, and Other Off-site Learning Opportunities Baxter-sponsored extracurricular activities

26 26 26

Dances

Sports and Other Extracurricular Activities Not Sponsored By Baxter

Work Permits

COVID-19 Updates

Over-the-Counter Medications - Provided if Needed

Bullying and Harassment Policies

Bullying and Cyberbullying

Discrimination and Harassment

Sexual Harassment

Complaint Procedure

Discipline Policy at Baxter Academy

Major Infractions

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Tobacco Use and Possession Policy

Weapons

Searches

Restraint and Seclusion Policy

Code of Academic Integrity

2023-2024 Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Forward The policies and procedures described in this handbook are designed to promote the general welfare of the entire student body. Respect for other people, regard for public property, and consideration of the rights and welfare of all students should be the guideposts for students’ actions and reactions. These agreements ensure that the school runs smoothly and is a place of mutual respect and high expectations where each student can learn and grow. Federal and state laws, school policies, regulations, and practices are subject to change from year to year. We review the handbook annually to be sure we are in compliance with laws and are all on the same page. To ensure that all students and parents understand these policies and procedures, we require that all students review this handbook annually and complete the Baxter Academy 2023-2024 Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form. This handbook is not meant to be an all-inclusive list concerning the student code of conduct. Rather, these are the most common guidelines and responsibilities expected of students. School Board policy always supersedes any school rules or guidelines outlined in this handbook. For access to all Baxter Academy policies see the Board Policies Document.

School Contacts For academic questions, please reach out to your child’s advisor or guidance counselor. For other information, contact the front office to be directed to the appropriate staff member. For general questions: front.office@baxter-academy.org

Front Office

Executive Director

School Counselor

Michelle Doherty 207-699-5500 ext. 401

Anna Klein-Christie 207-699-5500, ext. 600

Emily Kelly 207-699-5500 ext. 504

anna.kleinchristie@baxter-academy.org

emily.kelly@baxter-academy.org

Assistant to ED

School Counselor

Mackenzie Engler 207-699-5500

Charlie Koch 207-699-5500 ext 505

mackenzie.engler@baxter-academy.org

charlie.koch@baxter-academy.org

IT Manager

Special Education Director

front.office@baxter-academy.org

Assistant Principal Alex Waters 207-699-5500 ext. 301 alex.waters@baxter-academy.org

Head of School Cicy Po 207-699-5500 ext. 300 cicy.po@baxter-academy.org

Amos Cooper 207-699-5500 ext. 410 amos.cooper@baxter-academy.org

Data Manager and Enrollment Coordinator Tyler Beaulieu 207-699-5500 ext. 409 tyler.beaulieu@baxter-academy.org

Laura Parks 207-699-5500, ext 500 laura.parks@baxter-academy.org

Board of Directors: Thorn Dickinson, Chair Ruth Dean P’19, Vice Chair Nik Charov, Treasurer Dr. Dan Mickool P’22, Secretary Jana Lapoint Justin Richards

For a full list of School Contacts, please see the staff directory on the Baxter Academy website. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Statement of Inclusion It is the policy of Baxter Academy for Technology and Science to ensure equal employment and educational opportunities regardless of sex, color, national origin, marital status, religion, age, or disability in accordance with all federal and state legislation.

Baxter Mission and Vision Statement Inquiry leads learning at Baxter Academy for Technology and Science, a public charter high school free to Maine students. Our project-based STEM curriculum emphasizes real-world problem solving and is paired with a humanities program that connects ideas across disciplines and cultivates strong communication skills. Students design innovative projects through Flex Friday, a unique program requiring initiative, perseverance, and collaboration, as well as reflection on the work and its impact in the community. Baxter’s vision articulates clear pedagogical underpinnings. We teach students to access their agency, work hard, envision new possibilities, act in service to our local and global communities, and to collaborate with love and care for each other. Baxter’s STEM focus educates students to: Choose work that inspires their imagination; Persevere through setbacks; Innovate with conscience, curiosity and creativity; Solve real world problems; For a strong Maine future.

“Baxpectations” or the Profile of the Baxter Graduate Inspired by the Maine Guiding Principles, upon graduation, every Baxter student will be able to: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

demonstrate initiative and perseverance in their learning collaborate effectively and ethically as a team member ask creative questions to guide research frame problems and use design methods to develop solutions analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and apply data acquire and apply thinking and knowledge across fields write effectively in a variety of formats present work publicly in an organized and purposeful way reflect on and articulate their growth as a learner, as well as the relevance and impact of their work demonstrate responsible and ethical behavior, as well as proactive participation in the community

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Baxtitution The Baxtitution is a set of principles that inform how we build community, including academic and disciplinary policies. These guidelines and expectations were set by the community in its founding year and are detailed within the contents of the handbook. ● Community: Baxter Academy is an inclusive school that accepts varying personality types and social groups. We accept the greatness of each individual. We build community through academic inquiry, group projects, games, creative pursuits, and expeditions. Students and teachers watch out for each other and speak up when necessary. ● Tolerance: Baxter students will accept and appreciate each other’s differences and will not criticize each other negatively. ● Safety: Baxter Students will strive to create and uphold a safe and comfortable environment. They will not do anything that puts themselves or anyone else in physical or emotional danger. ● Bullying: Baxter students will honor and respect the physical space and emotional well-being of others. At no point will Baxter students harass or insult other members of the community, online or offline, as this can lead to verbal or physical abuse. ● Productivity: Baxter students will use their time wisely and be able to show evidence of their productivity. By doing this, Baxter students will be recognized for all the amazing work they produce. ● Teamwork: Baxter students are expected to be conscientious team-members and active participants in defining the culture of the school. As a group, the Baxter Academy community will work together to achieve success by creating an inclusive learning environment that accepts varying personality types. ● Professionalism: Baxter students and teachers will be polite, self-aware, respectful, and responsible while representing the school in the surrounding community. Inside the building, Baxter students and teachers will maintain a professional demeanor. Behavior, dress, and language must be appropriate to a professional environment. Baxter students and teachers will remain aware of the people around them and will be attentive and conscientious when discussing sensitive topics in school. ● Technology: Baxter students will use their computers and other devices in an appropriate manner. Usage guidelines will depend on school policy, as well as the individual teacher and learning environment. Technology use at Baxter should not interfere or distract from student learning. Baxter students will be mindful that they are representing their school community while using technology. ● Student-Teacher Interaction: Baxter students and teachers will have a good attitude and will treat each other with respect. Students will not give the teachers a hard time about assignments. Teachers will update their online materials and grades regularly. If absent, students will check class websites or classrooms and complete all relevant work. They are also expected to alert teachers if they need support on their assignments or if they are unable to complete them on time. ● Academic Honesty: Students at Baxter Academy are expected to honor the principles of academic and personal integrity. Baxter Academy students will not present others’ work as their own. If a student uses someone else’s work, they must provide a citation. ● Class Time/Free Time Behaviors: In class, Baxter students and teachers will remain on task while engaging in productive and relevant work. During free time, all students and teachers will use their time in ways that are considerate and ethical without engaging in activities inappropriate for school. ● Bus conduct: While on Baxter Academy buses, students will adhere to the following rules: ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Students will keep their volume, including music, at a quiet conversation level. Students will use language appropriate to the school environment. Students will respect each other’s personal space. Students will pick up after themselves. Students will respect the driver’s authority, adhering to all rules for discipline and conduct that are expected within the school building.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Baxter Dispositions of Learning Learning at Baxter is always connected to the larger context of our community and world and our role in it. Educators and students are challenged to frame all learning with the following set of questions. These are dispositions for learning and agency. At Baxter deep, transformational learning is facilitated by this framework.

S: What stories are at play? P: What is possible in iteration or innovation here? A: What assets do I bring to this? C: What is the community impact? E: What engages my curiosity?

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Habits of Work And Learning (HOWLs) Habits of Work and Learning (HOWLs) are habits and skills that, when regularly practiced, promote students’ academic growth and success in high school and beyond. Your teachers and administrators will hold you accountable for Habits of Work and Learning. HOWLs are grouped into two categories: Obligation to Community and Obligation to Self. Your teachers will vary in the ways that they teach and hold you responsible for these skills, but this chart is a basic guide to what we mean by Habits Of Work and Learning. Comments on your progress report will reflect HOWLs.

Two Pillars of Habits Of Work And Learning Obligation to Community

Obligation to Self

Habit

Self Check

Habit

Showing up for each other.

Do I show engagement during class times? Do I actively engage in teamwork when called upon and even step up to lead?

Responsible for meeting my commitments

How do I maintain positive social emotional wellness, including by not accruing overdue deadline debt?

Preparation

Am I clear about what I need to come to the next class as a member of my learning community?

Self Acceptance Heterogeneity

Do I accept myself for my unique character and needs, but also to understand that I live, serve, and work in a community?

Deadlines & Expectations

Am I meeting deadlines and expectations, and holding myself accountable for what I am responsible for?

Advocacy

How do I identify the help I need, to know where to look, and to ask and negotiate for it?

Discourse & Communication

Do I engage in discourse (listening, sharing, and facilitating) and to practice professional norms of respectful and clear writing communication?

Note Taking

How do I maintain records and processing notes for my learning so that I can take ownership for my own learning?

Care for peers

Am I self aware and group aware in learning environments? Am I practicing positive social management?

Study Skills For Assessment

How do I structure a way to hone my knowledge and skills for upcoming presentations of my work?

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

Self Check

207-699-5500

Academic Policies and Reporting Students can learn specifically about standards requirements, course requirements and pathways for learning in our Program of Studies. In addition to the requirements set out in the Program of Studies, and the Baxtitution. The Baxpectations articulates a profile of skills that all Baxter students will have achieved through the work of their high school journey. This profile informs all of our academic goals and accountability structures.

Academic Reporting Calendar Grades will be posted on the following schedule:

2023-2024 Baxter Academic Reporting Dates Covered

Grades Posting

Type of Record*

Progress Report 1

August 28-October 27

Tuesday, October 31

Snapshot Evaluation by course and standards Comments about HOWLs

Semester 1

August 28-January 19

Tuesday, January 23

Report Card Appears on transcript FF narrative Evaluation by course and standard

Progress Report 2

January 23-March 22

Tuesday, Mar 26

Snapshot Evaluation by course and standards Comments about HOWLs

Senior Progress Report

Jauary 23- May 3

Friday, May 3

Snapshot Evaluation by course and standards Comments about HOWLs

Senior Grades

January 23-May 23

Friday, May 24

Senior Grades due to determine graduation

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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Grading at Baxter Version 4.3 (for 2023-2024 academic calendar year) Academic records give a view of a student’s journey and growth. Students and families can access records to view regular updates provided by educators in PS. Formal progress reports are issued mid-semester. Report cards issued at each semester’s end will be used for transcripts.

evaluation by

Students earn a grade for each course based on their progress toward meeting the indicators and standards of the course.

Student learning is determined by progress toward the standards associated with a course. The level of achievement depends on the complexity of the course (is it an introductory course, or an advanced one?)

course 4.0

Transcends Course Expectations The student pushed beyond the expectations and standards of the course and added deep personal and community connection.

3.5

Better than Meets Course Expectations The student is well prepared and well practiced for the next course in the sequence, and may have already exhibited some of the skills or content (standards) expected in the next course.

3.0

Meets Course Expectations The student is prepared for the next course in the sequence and has met the indicators and standards of the course.

2.5

Satisfies Course Expectations with Greater Proficiency The student may advance to the next course in the sequence. Student could use greater practice in a skill and/or demonstrate greater knowledge and content mastery in the standards and has shown evidence of all indicators of a standard.

2.0

Satisfies Course Expectations The student is minimally prepared for the next course in the sequence. The student will need to make up some standards in a future class; obliging the student to sign up for another course in the department’s sequence.

1.0

Does Not Satisfy Course Expectations The student is not sufficiently prepared for the next course in the sequence. The student will need to repeat the class.

GPAs are determined by course evaluations. We

use numbers to communicate grades clearly to secondary institutions, students, and families. This is how the rest of the world sees our GPA.

standard EX

Excelling (400+ level course) The student demonstrated a high level of complexity, sophistication, originality, depth, synthesis in application of course.

Advancing (400 level course) The student demonstrated complexity, sophistication, originality, depth, synthesis in application of course.

Competency Benchmark (300 level course) The student has consistently demonstrated understanding at the level required for all Baxter graduates.

Progressing (200 level course) The student has acquired a deeper understanding of the standard, well on the way to benchmark, but is not quite there.

Entering (100 level course) The student has demonstrated a basic or introductory understanding of the skills and content of the standard.

Students may offer evidence far exceeding the rubric expectations for all Baxter students, and earn an evaluation of Beyond Assessment (BA). Some students may also earn an evaluation of No Evidence (NE).

Graduation is determined by successful completion of course of studies, which holds the appropriate standards. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Flex Friday At Baxter Academy, students engage in the real work of the real world. Students direct their own learning through inquiry. They pursue their interests and develop critical skills including the capacity to collaborate with others and asking for help when needed. They confront and overcome failure to create solutions for their community. They succeed not just by high school standards but by the standards of their future disciplines and professionals. At Baxter, the real world truly starts now and our Flex Friday program brings all of this to life. The Flex Friday program is one important way that students realize the goals set forth in the Baxtitution: Initiative, Perseverance, Collaboration, Inquiry, Investigation, Problem Solving, Information Processing, Integration, Writing, Communication, Reflection and Civic Awareness. On Fridays, Baxter students work on self directed, long-term projects that are relevant to each student’s interests and goals. Flex Friday serves two important roles in Baxter Academy’s curriculum. First, by providing a substantial period of time for students to work on large‐scale, real‐world problems. These problems allow students to apply the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to tangible and significant challenges. Second, Flex Friday also offers an opportunity for students to go beyond the traditional curriculum to perform lengthy experiments, immerse themselves in project design or research, and, through error analysis, learn from failure. Because all students have the same time available, groups of students are able to coalesce around projects of common interest and work collaboratively without scheduling difficulties. Teachers, freed from other teaching obligations, are able to focus on advising students as they work through their projects, assisting with skill development and making sure they ask the right questions, follow through on their work plans, and collaborate effectively within work groups. The blocks of time facilitate development of research skills and work with experts through collaborating businesses and other institutions.

Assessment of Flex Friday Flex Friday is a required course for each year a student is enrolled at Baxter. Student work in Flex Friday is recorded on transcripts as a narrative describing the project, a number grade (1-4), and students progress towards standards. Flex Friday standards are based on Maine Guiding Principles1 which are the foundation for our “Baxpectations.” One of four rubrics, each associated with a clear deliverable, will guide students for successful completion of Flex Friday: 1. Research 2. Engineering/Design 3. Maker/Fabrication/Arts 4. Internship See the Flex Friday Handbook for proposal documents, rubrics and more information about the program.

Guidance for Students on Email Communication with Teachers The most important relationships we protect at our school is that between students and their educators. Students are encouraged to be in communication with their teachers regarding need for additional help, questions, or concerns. Baxter teaches students to be email responsive and to use professional email communications. Your classroom teacher is the person most able to answer specific questions. Baxter teachers will strive to respond to parent communications (e-mails or phone calls) within 48 hours. Less Effective Email

Style Point

More Effective Email

hey- what is the project about? thanks

Your emails should have a professional and respectful tone.

Dear Ms Jones, I want to do well on my upcoming project. I have a few questions. Do you have time for a conversation regarding my progress?

The guiding principles of the Maine learning standards are the cross-curricular skill based standards students are expected to acquire through their education. Maine’s guiding principles also inform the principles set forth in the Baxtitution. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Thank you, Baxter Lancaster Dear Mr. Jones, I was wondering if you could help me with the assignment. Thanks, Baxter Lancaster

Remember that your teacher may have 80 or more students and multiple courses. Be specific in reminding your teacher of the context or reason for your email.

Dear Mr. Jones, In class on Wednesday last week when we were talking about the novel 1984, you gave us an assignment related to “tone.” Can we meet sometime in the next few days to talk about your expectations for that project? Thanks, Baxter Lancaster

PowerSchool PowerSchool is our student information system (SIS). Using PowerSchool, you can check attendance records, view your course grade and academic progress in your classes and more. Teachers will update powerschool daily for attendance and on a minimum of weekly for academics. Families can find directions for PowerSchool access on our website.

Family Engagement Family engagement is an important element of positive school culture and student academic success Baxter academy welcomes family support both formal and informal in promoting school initiatives as well as the mission of Baxter Academy. Furthermore, high quality parent-teacher communications helps to build trust and accountability.

Back to School Night, Family Conference, Student Led Conferences (SLCs). Families come in for Back to School Night to meet their student’s educators at the start of the fall semester. In addition, parents have a chance to conference with their student’s teachers after first quarter progress reports have been sent. Then in the spring, students present their learning progress and achievements to their families and advisors in Student Led Conferences (SLCs). In addition to conferences, parents are encouraged to contact their student’s teacher if there are academic questions or concerns. Also, your student’s advisor can help direct your questions and provide pertinent insight.

Attendance Policies Regular attendance at school is essential for continuity of learning. The educational programs at Baxter Academy are designed for each student’s in-school participation and involvement. Regular classroom attendance is necessary if a student is to gain maximum benefit from the school experience. Students who are absent cannot receive the benefits of the discussions, activities, and other experiences available only in the classroom setting. These lost minutes or hours from class have a tremendous effect on achievement. Irregular attendance negatively affects student achievement. It is the student’s responsibility to inquire about and to make up any work missed during an absence. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Absence Policy Absences are recorded as excused or unexcused by the attendance secretary and by each individual classroom teacher. Parents must call the school Attendance Office at 207-699-5500 or email the Front Office at front.office@baxter-academy.org. Parents should notify the school of student absences preferably between 7:30 and 8:15 a.m. Notice, given ONLY by a parent or legal guardian must be provided when a student is tardy, or to be dismissed. A reason must be provided in the note. If there is no note, the absence/tardy/dismissal will be recorded as unexcused. Notes may be verified by a phone call to parents by the school.

Truancy Students younger than 17 years of age, with more than seven consecutive unexcused absences, or 10 cumulative unexcused absences, will be declared truant according to Maine State Law. Any student determined to be truant will meet with members of the Student Care Team to determine the cause of the truancy and assess the effect of the student’s absence as well as any future absences. If it is determined that a negative effect exists, the Student Care Team, consisting of school counselor(s), academic leader(s), social worker(s), and the Special Education Director, is required to develop an intervention plan that may include the items found in Title 20-A, 5051-A. Should this intervention plan fail to correct the habitual truancy, the Head of School shall follow the procedure outlined in Title 20-A, 5051-A, which includes serving a notice by mail to parents or legal guardians, and referring the truant student to local law enforcement.

Excused Absences For an absence to be excused, a parent or guardian must contact the front office to report the absence. The following reasons qualify as excused absences, in accordance with Maine Law. Absence for reasons not listed below qualify as unexcused absences. 1. Personal illness; including those illnesses that may fall under an individual’s plan. a. Students who are sick for more than 7 consecutive days must have a note from their physician. 2. An appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day. a. Students who need to miss class on a regular basis due to professional appointments, college classes, etc., need to seek permission from the Assistant Principal or Head of School, who will determine the status of the request and communicate with the attendance secretary for continuous record keeping. 3. Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day. 4. A family emergency. 5. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose that has been approved by the Assistant Principal or Head of School. Prior to approval of a planned absence student must fill out this Planned Absence Form. 6. Education disruption resulting from homelessness, unplanned psychiatric hospitalization, unplanned hospitalization for a medical emergency, foster care placement, youth development center placement or some other out-of-district placement that is not otherwise authorized by either an individualized education plan or other education plan or an administrative agreement.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Chronic Absenteeism Students and families should know that excused absences count towards chronic absenteeism. Students who have missed 10% of school days are counted as chronically absent and will be called in for a meeting.

Unexcused Absences In accordance with Maine Law, any reasons other than those given above will be counted as unexcused, regardless of guardian permission. This includes failure to provide acceptable documentation or proper calls to the attendance office. Students may not call themselves out unless; 1. The student has been legally emancipated by court decree OR 2. The student is more than eighteen years of age AND is living on his/her own AND has prior approval from his/her parents AND school administration

Tardiness: School Begins at 8:25 Baxter values showing up for each other on time; however, Baxter understands that on rare occasions a student may arrive late because of a doctor’s appointment, a family emergency or other excused need. The process for any student arriving late is to check in at the front office and to pick up a late pass. No student will be admitted to a class without a late pass. Upon entering their class after the bell rings, students will be marked as tardy in Powerschool. Students who are consistently tardy to school in a semester, will conference with a counselor and/or administrator and in some instances be given a disciplinary consequence. The criteria for an excused tardy is the same as defined above for absences, because tardiness is considered a “short-term absence” from school. All regulations that apply to absenteeism also apply to tardiness. Over-sleeping, missing the bus, traffic congestion, etc. will not be excused, nor does a note, in and of itself, excuse tardiness.

Leaving class: If a student asks to leave class they need to adhere to their teacher’s guidelines and expectations for leaving class. If a student fails to return to class or is gone for an unreasonable amount of time, they will be marked absent/unexcused from class.

Anytime/Anywhere Learning In accordance with Baxter’s mission to encourage students to engage in real-world learning, and keeping in mind that Baxter’s students come from diverse locations, the administration recognizes the need to include Anytime/Anywhere Learning as part of the educational experience at Baxter Academy. Baxter has programs built in for Anytime/Anywhere Learning in the calendar of the school year. Additionally, students engaged in internships for their Flex Friday program may work off campus with the approval of Flex Friday educator mentors and their Flex Friday approval committee. If a student applies for an AAL learning day, they are required to submit a statement of purpose and evidence of their learning to the Assistant Principal to receive credit for the day of school.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Dismissals After arriving at school, students may not leave school grounds prior to the end of the school day, outside of lunch time and Flex Friday activity that has been agreed upon by the cluster leader and the attendance secretary, unless they have been properly dismissed with a note from a parent or legal guardian. The school is responsible for all students during school hours. Once on school grounds, students may not leave the building at any time, other than lunch, without the permission of a school administrator and the parent. If students leave school without administrative/parental permission, they will be subject to disciplinary action. To be officially dismissed from school for illness or injury, a student must go to the main office for a dismissal note. A parent/guardian will be contacted before allowing the student to go home. In the event of an emergency, etc. parents/guardians may dismiss a student by calling the main office.

Dismissal Procedure for 18-Year Old Students Students who are 18 years old (or older) may not sign their own notes dismissing themselves from school for any reason or authorizing their own absences or tardiness, etc., or in any way act in place of their parent(s) or guardians. Students who are 18 but still living with their parents/legal guardians are considered to be under the jurisdiction of the legal parent/guardian. Students who are 18 years old (or older) who maintain independent residence and financial responsibility (independently from their parents, relatives, or guardians) must produce legal proof of their status. Upon this proof, the administration will then determine the procedures that govern a student’s rights and responsibilities within the school setting.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

School Calendar, Daily Schedule, Cancellations Subscribe to our public Google calendar.

School Closings & Snow Day Learning Program Baxter students come from more than 60 towns across Maine. Decisions to delay or cancel school are made on a case-by-case basis by the administrative team in consultation with transportation services. Safe travel to and from school for all students is top priority. On such days, school may be canceled or school may take place remotely. Baxter Academy piloted the state’s first remote Snow Day Learning program with Maine DOE support and this model has since been adopted by multiple schools statewide. On remote learning days, students are expected to complete these assignments from home. Baxter must have at least 80% student participation to earn back up to five snow days

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

on our school calendar. Notices of cancellations, delays, snow day learning, or other changes to the daily schedule will be sent out using the SchoolMessenger system.

Daily Schedule Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

8:25 – 9:20

Advisory 8:25-8:45

9:30 – 10:25

10:30 – 11:25

11:30–11:55

Advisory

Advisory & I&E

Advisory

Flex Friday

BCT/I&E

11:55-12:35

Lunch

12:35 – 1:30

1:35 – 2:30

2:40

FF I. 8:50-10:05 II. 10:10-11:25

FF III. 12:35-1:50

FF/Speaker Series 1:50-2:30

Buses Leave

There will be times that our typical daily schedule will be altered due to community wide events and meetings. Any major changes to our regular schedule will be communicated to the Baxter Community.

Professional Dress Students are encouraged to use sound judgment and reflect respect for themselves and others in dress, in keeping with the goals of Baxter Academy to provide a safe, healthy and non-discriminatory environment for educating students for maximum academic and social development. Students are not allowed to wear clothing that promotes violence, exclusion, hate, disrespect or drug/alcohol use. If you are working in an internship or are otherwise off campus for school related work, you need to respect the professional dress expectations upheld at your internship or work site. For example, your internship at a legal office may require different attire than what you would wear to school.

Lunch Program In addition to student refrigerators and microwaves located in our Great Room, Baxter Academy offers meal options from local restaurants in the Portland area. Students may order lunch through our online lunch program at least one week in advance. Free and reduced lunch applications are available for those in need by contacting the front office.

Our lunch options for the 2023-24 school year are listed on our website and are subject to change 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

If your child pre-orders their lunch and has not picked it up by twenty-five minutes after the start of lunch (due to any reason including absence), we will sell their lunch to another student. If your child’s pre-ordered lunch is sold, they will not be charged, and the lunch charge will be transferred to the student purchasing the lunch. If they are absent or fail to pick up their pre-ordered lunch for any reason and their lunch is NOT sold, they will still be required to pay for this meal. There are things you can do to help this process: • If you know your child will be absent ahead of time, let the front office know in the morning per the attendance policy • Make sure your child orders their lunch by the ordering deadline. Baxter orders all its food one week in advance and cannot make changes once orders have been sent to vendors, so it is to your benefit to make sure your child is accurately ordering the lunch prior to the deadline. • Encourage your child to pick up their lunch at the start of lunch! We can hold lunches for students who are going out, but if your child is working on a project and loses track of time, we will not hold lunches longer than twenty-five minutes into lunch without your child first notifying us that they will be coming back. • Be aware that your child may have a lunch balance even if they’ve never “ordered.” If your child forgets a lunch that day and picks up the lunch of an absent student, or gets a soup card, they will be charged for that meal. If you think your child will be purchasing lunch, please log in to PowerSchool and make an initial deposit of at least $25 to ensure your student starts the year with a positive balance. Lunch charges will be reflected in your student’s Infinite Campus account. You are responsible for making sure your child maintains a positive lunch balance and can log in to load additional funds to the account at any time. For more information about the billing/payment system, please see Student Payment Information located in this packet. We’ve done our best with our lunch program to make sure students have access to a variety of options at reasonable prices. Thank you for understanding how our policies help ensure fairness for all students ordering lunch.

Transportation Student Parking Students arriving by private vehicle or driving themselves must complete the required student driver registration form and be prepared to pay a monthly parking fee for use of the student parking lot located at: 3 Somerset Street, Portland ME - next store to the Verizon Wireless retail location.

Student Pick-Up and Drop-Off by Private Vehicle Policy To ensure student safety and to promote smooth transportation flow around Baxter Academy, as required by the City of Portland, all parents and students must adhere to the rules for student drop-off and pick-up by private vehicle at 185 Lancaster Street. Please sign the form located in the intake packet to attest that you have read, understand, and will abide by our policy. A map of pick-up locations is appended to this document. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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Carpool arrangements are encouraged and can be made by students or parents on their own time. Interested parties should complete the linked Google Form. Once the form has been filled, you will be granted access to a contact database of other interested parties and can make arrangements from there. Please, for the safety of our students, DO NOT pass buses with stop signs out and lights flashing. Not only is this a danger to students, it is against state law. Violations of this and other traffic safety laws will be reported to the Portland Police Department. MORNING DROP OFF

AFTERNOON DROP OFF

Students being dropped off at Baxter Academy are required to exit the vehicle on the curb side and enter the building as quickly as possible. If a bus approaches the bus loading zone on Elm Street, parents must make way for the bus to pull over and offload students.

Students who are walking, bicycling, or using public transportation will be dismissed first. Students who take Baxter’s school buses will not be dismissed from classes until 2:30 pm or until the buses arrive. Cars queuing on Elm Street to pick up students will be required to arrive at 2:40 p.m, per the City of Portland.

Baxter Academy staff will enforce these rules on a daily basis.

Pick-Up & Drop-Off Map Lancaster St 8 spaces available for drop off. This is the front of the school. Please be aware of school bus loading and unloading at this location. Elm St Drop off prior to 8:15 a.m. only. Please be aware of public bus loading at this location. Kennebec St This is located at the back of the school and should be used for monitored exits only.

School Buses Baxter Academy provides four chartered school buses for students commuting from more than sixty towns. The most current scheduling can be found on our website under Transportation.

Public Transportation Umo TouchPass App for Public Bus Transit Portland Metro, Metro Breez, South Portland Bus Service, and BSOOB Transit (Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach) are all under the same payment structure via the Umo TouchPass app. Students download the app and set up a username and password. Then, they will notify the school of their username and we will switch their account to be paid for by Baxter. A registration form can be found on our website under Transportation. BSOOB Transit 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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If you are a student living in Biddeford, Saco, Scarborough, Old Orchard Beach, or South Portland, you qualify for Umo Touchpass at no cost to you. There are quarterly passes available for those who ride the bus every day and punch passes for those who may be more infrequent riders. South Portland Bus If you are a student living in South Portland, you qualify for Umo Touchpass at no cost to you. Students receive this pass on a monthly basis. Those who lose this pass must pay the cost of a full replacement. Greater Portland Metro If you are a student living in Brunswick, Falmouth, Freeport, Portland, Westbrook, or Yarmouth you qualify for Umo Touchpassat at no cost to you. Physical pass cards are also available for students who don’t wish to use the app. Lakes Region Explorer If you are a student living in or around the following areas, you qualify for a Lakes Region Explorer transportation pass at no cost to you: Bridgton, Naples, South Casco, Raymond, and North Windham. Note: Check the latest bus schedule before signing up. At the time of this writing, the first PM bus did not depart until after 5 PM. Make sure the schedule works for your family. Casco Bay Ferry If you are a student commuting from Peak’s Island or another island in the Casco Bay, you qualify for a Casco Bay Ferry pass at no cost to you. A registration form can be found on our website under Transportation. Skateboarding/Bikes Bicycles, longboards, skateboards, and scooters must not be used inside and may not be used during school hours including at lunch. Bicycles should be locked up at the bike racks provided on Lancaster St. Boards must be stored on designated shelves inside the school. Students using bicycles, longboards, skateboards, or scooters to travel to and from school must abide by all state and municipal law. Students may not use skateboards on sidewalks, must yield right of way to pedestrians, and must always demonstrate courteous behavior. Students who fail to comply with this policy may face disciplinary action including the confiscation of their skateboards etc.

Baxter Digital Citizenship Expectations Digital Copy Baxter is a pioneer in digital platforms and we take pride in our leadership as a community to support safe, generative, productive use of digital technology and information literacy. In the larger context, Americans have the rights to freedom of expression; however, our school community also has a legal and ethical responsibility to uphold safety, forward academic progress, and even kindness. Baxter Academy provides students with wireless and wired internet access in addition to Lenovo laptops with Microsoft Windows, Office 365, and Adobe Creative Cloud. This technology is available to students from September 2023 through June 2024. Please carefully read the digital citizenship expectations. Unacceptable use of technology may result in a revocation or suspension of privileges. There are 7 components of our digital citizenship expectations: 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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1. Professionalism Students must understand professionalism in their academic lives as distinctly different from their social lives. Students should maintain professionalism during class time. The Baxter Netiquette guide was created for Zoom classes, but its spirit holds true with other platforms. Stay on topic in the chat, only use reaction tools when appropriate and avoid virtual backgrounds that may distract other students. Professionalism is revealed in our written and spoken language patterns, tone, habits of work, and engagement with materials. Students should use appropriate digital communications, including email and other relevant platforms, to converse professionally. Remote learning requires a distinct level of generosity. Students should ask: How are we contributing to this community and making it better? When we turn our cameras off, we are attending to our own needs; when we turn our cameras on, we are helping to build our community. Students will respect work tools. Students are fully responsible for the care of school issued devices and their personal devices. Students will use Baxter network and school related platforms, students will only access sites that are relevant to their educational experience.

2. Safety/Identity Protection

Students must protect their credentials to protect their identity. Students must respect the privacy of all community members. Students should never share their school-provided or personal credentials online or in-person except with their parents or guardian or under the direction of their teachers if necessary. Baxter faculty and staff will never ask for a student’s credentials. If access to a school-provided account is necessary by staff, the student’s password will be changed and a new one provided. Students have a right to privacy and to maintain the security of personal information in the digital community. This process begins by individuals controlling what personal information they share through the local network and Internet. Students must also be responsible for what information they share about others. Students need to request permission before posting any information about someone else. A student shall not reveal their full name, address, or telephone number on the Internet without prior permission from a supervising teacher. Students should never meet people they have contacted through the Internet without parental permission. Students should inform their supervising teacher if they access content or messages that are dangerous, inappropriate, or make them uncomfortable in any way.

3. Permanence

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Every time you log on to the internet, use your cell phone, or do anything digitally you are leaving a digital trail that doesn’t go away, including for future employers and college admission. What you post shapes your digital identity and reputation. Your posts create a permanent record through cookies and cache. Even when you “delete” a post it is traceable. Few if any sites are private. When sharing anything on the internet, student rights to freedom of speech are in relation to the right of Baxter Academy to protect the safety of our community and our academic program. There should be no expectation of privacy – email is an official and permanent record that is accessible to school personnel. Consider the following questions when posting: 1. Why am I posting this? 2. Is what I'm posting true? 3. Is the opinion I am expressing in this post likely to change or vary in the future? 4. How might this post be interpreted by a college recruiter or company I apply to? 5. Is this post going to help or hurt me or others? 6. What will others feel when they see this post? 7. Am I reacting to my emotions while I am posting? 8. Are these posts creating more drama or less? 9. Am I only posting this to get likes and shares? 10. Is there another way to communicate what I'm trying to say without using social media?

4. Academic Integrity Academic integrity requires honest practices in our use of digital information. At Baxter, plagiarism (taking another’s work as one’s own), and unattributed use of copyrighted materials are prohibited; students must cite source and share licenses. Furthermore, students must seek reliable and appropriate sources. We encourage familiarity with open sources, such as creative commons. Unauthorized alteration, taking or publishing of student, teacher or school materials, including those generated by artificial intelligence is prohibited. Another student, parent or other adult may not write or make changes to student work. All work submitted must be that of the individual student. Participating in academic dishonesty with peers is also a violation of Baxter code of conduct.

5. Digital Image Use Images are powerful communication tools; permission from the original issuer must be obtained before you can use, share, repost, or alter the image. Neither still photography nor video capturing and transmission is allowed without permission. Faculty members and administration may require photography to meet an educational goal. As with other social media posts, photographs and videos posted to the internet which are harmful or threatening to another person, the school, or the academic program may be restricted by school adminsitration. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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6. School Security The security of the school’s technology, networks, and Internet services is a high priority; this is everybody’s job. Viruses, malware, ransomware, identity theft, and phishing are a result of insufficient security practices. By following the guidelines in this document you can greatly reduce your risk of falling victim to these problems. Any user who identifies a security problem must notify the IT Manager or Principal immediately. The user shall not demonstrate the problem to others. Any user who attempts or causes a breach of system security shall have their privileges revoked and may be subject to additional disciplinary or legal action. Baxter Academy’s network should be used for educational purposes as determined by school personnel . - Accessing or downloading explicit or illegal content is strictly forbidden. - The IT Manager reserves the right to block Internet content that’s deemed distracting or bandwidth-heavy. Students should practice safe techniques when downloading files from the Internet. This includes but is not limited to: - Visiting trusted and reputable software websites. - Downloading files only from trusted sources. - Installing software only from trusted sources.

7. Authenticity and Digital Literacy Internet resources vary in factfulness and good intentions. We are committed to the growth of lifelong digital literacy. We will not intentionally push out hoaxes or harms. A violation of any of these standards of digital citizenship may result in a student having their privileges revoked and the student may be subject to additional disciplinary or legal action, as determined by Baxter Academy for Technology and Science’s administration.

Campus-wide Technology Expectations Social Media and Cell Phone Policy Baxter celebrates the importance of innovative technology in our learning culture and workplaces. One of our responsibilities is to teach students how to use technology to solve problems and create connections. Students need space to learn how to use technology effectively in a way that adds to their experiences rather than detracts. It is at the discretion of each teacher to set a device policy for their classroom. Teachers will notify students of their policy at the beginning of each semester. Students are expected to follow the rules of each individual teacher. Students may face disciplinary action for failure to comply with school policies on social media.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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Tech Support The IT Manager provides tech support on a first come first serve basis to both school-issued laptops and personal devices.. Any problems with school-issued laptops that take an extended amount of time to fix will require a reinstallation of the operating system. This will result in a loss of any data saved on the device. ● Students are responsible for backing up their own files before Windows is reinstalled. ● Students must leave their laptop with the IT Manager until the installation is complete. Physical damage to school-issued laptops will be assessed on a per case basis. If the IT Manager can repair the damage, the computer will be returned to the student as soon as the repair is complete. Students with personal computers are eligible to receive software and support for their computer. This does not come with any warranty either implied or specified and should be undertaken at the student’s own risk. Any damage or data loss incurred during service by the IT Manager or as a result of school software is strictly the responsibility of the student and their family.

Care of School Technology All school technology should be treated carefully to minimize damage due to negligence. ADHESIVE STICKERS SHOULD NEVER BE PLACED ON SCHOOL-ISSUED LAPTOPS. Student use of Baxter Academy’s technology and network services is a privilege, not a right. Unacceptable use or activity may result in suspension or cancellation of privileges as well as additional disciplinary or legal action. ● The student or the student's parent/guardian shall be responsible for compensating the school for any losses, costs, or damages incurred by the school related to violations of these policies and procedures, including investigation of violations. ● Baxter Academy assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges made by students, including but not limited to credit card charges, long distance telephone charges, electronic payment services, equipment and line costs, or for any illegal use of its computers such as copyright violations. ● Students are expected to return their laptop in a good working condition.

School Issued Laptops Personal Computer Use If you are bringing your own computer and wish to have Baxter Academy software loaded onto it for your use during the school year, your computer must meet these minimum specifications. ● Windows Laptop with i5 processor or equivalent ● 8 GB RAM ● At least 100 GB storage space

Technology Fee Like many area schools, Baxter Academy charges a technology use fee to families to keep the cost of repairs down on school-issued laptops and support the specialized software available to students. ● Fee waivers applications are available through the Operations Manager. ● The use fee is not insurance.

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If a student needs their school-issued laptop physically repaired and the damage is due to negligence or is out-of-warranty, the first repair will be covered, unless it is found to be a total loss. After the first repair, a fee will be assessed for each additional repair.

Open Campus Open Campus is a privilege for students and an opportunity for the greater community to see what wonderful citizens teenagers can be. This is an opportunity for students to be a force for good in the local community. Open Campus does not imply that students are free to travel wherever they wish, however they wish, or whenever they wish. ● All travel during open campus lunch is by foot ONLY. Use of bikes, scooters, longboards, skateboards, or other transport is not allowed. ● Students are required to stay in the open campus boundary. A current map of our campus boundaries and places of interest can be found on our website at baxter-academy.org/opencampus ● Students out on the open campus are expected to speak and behave appropriately and with awareness of others around them. ● Students should go out in pairs or a group. ● Students are expected to watch out for one another. If a student at Baxter seems confused or concerned, please ask them if they are okay. The school number is 207-699-5500. Call anytime and we’ll help. ● Students must be back in the building on time, and therefore need to plan lunch excursions accordingly. Students can lose open campus privilege or face disciplinary action for these non inclusive reasons: disrespectful behaviors, not returning to class on time, not abiding by Baxter expectations or city laws and/or ordinances.

Visitors All visitors must be pre-approved by administration. A visitor is defined as any individual who is not currently enrolled at or employed by Baxter Academy or its subcontractors who arrives, by invitation or otherwise, at the school’s campus facility. Visitor requests must be made a minimum of two school days before the visit. When approving requests, priority is always given to preserving the learning environment of our current students. At no time are students from other schools allowed to “drop-in” or “visit,” without a specific academic purpose and prior approval. All pre-approved visitors are required to sign in at the front office, wear a visitor badge lanyard while on school grounds, and must be accompanied by a member of staff at all times if in the facility when students are present. Visitors are required to adhere to all policies and procedures of the school at all times. Parent visits during school hours should first be arranged with the teacher, front office, or school administrator. If a meeting or conference outside of the designated conference schedule is desired, an appointment should be set and confirmed. These requests should be made within 48 hours notice whenever possible.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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Student Fee Policy As a non-profit public charter school, Baxter Academy does not receive the same supplementary funding provided to many traditional public schools. Despite this, we do our best to provide a rich school experience, often paying for some standard student services out of pocket. As a result, it is even more important that all fees assessed to students are paid promptly by families. Students should expect fees for: ● Technology use ● Elective services such as student parking ● Replacement bus passes ● Field trips or extracurricular activities ● Damage to school property due to vandalism ● Lunch and snack items ● Optional student purchases such as yearbooks or school store items Fees may be reduced or waived for those who have completed the Free & Reduced Meal Application and have been approved. Each time a fee is charged, you may request a fee waiver by contacting the CFO. As a nonprofit, we welcome tax-deductible donations for scholarships to help with student fees for those in need.

Student Services & Activities The Student Services program at Baxter strives to meet the unique needs and encourage the individual goals of all students. This is accomplished through the combined efforts of students, families, the school, and the community.

Student Records: Annual Notification of Rights The Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students and parents 18 years of age or older (eligible students) certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records. To review a complete copy of the law please contact the special education office at 207-699-5500. For additional information, please contact the Family Policy Compliance Office. US Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington D.C. 20202.

Special Education and Section 504 For pertinent policy information regarding specific special education policies and procedures see the website.

Student IDs Baxter Academy provides students with IDs. All Baxter students are eligible for library cards from the Portland Public Library, which can be acquired by showing a Baxter ID.

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School Counselors The school counselors at Baxter Academy oversee more than just personal and social counseling for students. Their duties include academic advising, college/career advising, standardized testing and wellness programming. The counselors are here to help students set goals and problem-solve to be successful. Students are assigned their school counselor by advisory and are also there to help advisors effectively guide and assist students.

Social Workers The school’s social worker is a supportive member of the Baxter community. They are responsible for individual and group social work services, as determined by the student’s Individual Education Plan. They support students’ academic progress and growth by working with them on their physical, emotional, and mental health. The social worker may make referrals and conduct clinical assessments as needed. They also coordinate with other service providers for students involved in multiple programs, and assist in crisis management and follow up with students.

Child Find Baxter Academy is committed to "child find" and its requirement that schools find all children who have disabilities and who may be entitled to special education services. Once a student is identified as a student with disabilities or special needs, the special education and supportive services deemed appropriate for that student shall be defined by the student’s IEP Team in a written Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP shall be the basis for all educational programming and placement decisions for the student with disabilities. Each IEP shall be developed in accordance with the least restrictive educational (LRE) alternative criteria set forth in Maine Special Education Regulations

Extracurricular Opportunities Internships, Partnerships, and Other Off-site Learning Opportunities Baxter Academy develops and maintains relationships with organizations where our students can intern and be exposed to various enriching experiences in southern Maine. We are rebuilding our list of internships sites, workshops, volunteer opportunities, and other programs available to Baxter students. Additionally, Baxter educators and administrators often share their passions and connections to organizations doing work in STEM fields and beyond in their classes. Updates on these opportunities will be found on the website, in our weekly family emails, and through communications to students.

Baxter-sponsored extracurricular activities Extracurricular activities can be found on Baxter’s website. Dances Dances or other extracurricular Baxter-sponsored activities may be held periodically during the year. All Baxter students and guests are required to follow all school rules, policies, and procedures during dances or other extracurricular activities. At a dance, each Baxter Academy student may bring a guest if they are pre-approved by the administration. Guest permission forms are available in the front office and must be submitted no later than the day 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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before the dance. Guests must be enrolled in a high school or under the age of 21, and must be in good standing at his or her own school and have written consent from both sets of parents. The Head of School reserves the right to limit access to extracurricular events based on an assessment of what is best for the well-being of Baxter and its students. Field Trips Students participating in Baxter sponsored field trips must fill out and complete the field trip waiver form no later than two days in advance for day trips and five days in advance for trips occurring outside normal school hours. All school policies must be followed on trips. Students who disrupt learning during field trips or who fail to comply with Baxter behavior expectations will face disciplinary action, which may include exclusion from the field trip.

Sports and Other Extracurricular Activities Not Sponsored By Baxter Many students at Baxter Academy participate in extracurricular sports and activities. Students are eligible to participate in sports at their home district and wellness credit can be earned for those students who choose to do so. Students and families need to communicate with the main office regarding any absences related to extra curricular. For more than two extra-curricular related absences or dismissals students should email the Assistant Principal for approval and to make arrangements. Parents are encouraged to regularly check their student’s attendance using Power School to ensure that students are correctly marked out for these absences. Students missing class are responsible for making up missed work. Should academic performance suffer, the administration may revoke a student’s permission to participate in extracurricular activities.

Work Permits Students under the age of 16 who hold jobs outside of school are required to have a work permit. Employment must not interfere with a student’s ability to participate fully in school. In order to qualify for a work permit, students must be currently enrolled in school, passing the majority of their classes and not under suspension or habitually truant. The front office receives worker’s permit applications. Students should bring a completed work permit application (found on the Baxter Academy website) along with their passport or certified copy of their birth certificate to the front office for age verification. The Maine Department of Labor processes worker’s permits in the order they are received. The front office makes every effort to submit permits in a timely manner and sends approved worker’s permits back to the student when they are returned from the state.

Over-the-Counter Medications - Provided if Needed Prescription medications must be stored and administered at the front office by Baxter faculty or staff who are trained annually. Parents must complete a medication form, kept on file. The medication form can be found on our website at baxter-academy.org/medications. Under no circumstances should any student take medication not administered by authorized school personnel. Baxter Academy is willing to provide limited medication to your child with your permission. Below is a list of medications available at Baxter Academy. If you have not signed the permission form during your initial registration, your child will not be administered any of these available options without a phone call to the parent/guardian first. Medications Available: 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

Indication: 207-699-5500

Acetaminophen/Tylenol

headache; toothache; menstrual cramps; sore throat; muscle pain; earache. May be given every 4 hours. Parent/guardian will be contacted if more than one dose in a day or one daily dose for 3 consecutive days is given. Dosing per label instructions and weight.

Benadryl

To be administered at onset of systematic reaction characterized by rash, edema, and/or mild to moderate respiratory distress due to environmental, food, or insect allergies. Parent/Guardian will be notified. Further emergency care will be facilitated as warranted by condition. Dosing per label instructions and weight.

Calcium Carbonate (Tums)

Acid indigestion; heartburn; sour stomach. Dosing per label.

Antibiotic Ointment

Used to prevent and treat minor skin infections caused by small cuts, scrapes, or burns. Dosing per label. Itch relief for skin rashes, poison ivy/oak/sumac. Dosing per label.

Hydrocortisone Cream Ibuprofen/Advil

Headache; toothache; menstrual cramps; sore throat; muscle pain; earache. May be given every 4 hours. Parent/guardian will be contacted if more than one dose in a day or one daily dose for 3 consecutive days is given. Dosing per label instructions and weight.

Throat Lozenges/Cough Drops

Temporary relief of cough, pain associated with sore throat, sore mouth. Dosing per label.

Bullying and Harassment Policies Baxter Academy for Technology and Science must be a safe and secure learning environment for all students. It is the intent of Baxter Academy to provide all students with an equitable opportunity to learn. To that end, we have a significant interest in providing a safe, orderly, and respectful school environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. The following behaviors are prohibited: I. Bullying II. Cyberbullying III. Harassment and Sexual Harassment IV. Retaliation against those reporting such defined behaviors; and V. Making knowingly false accusations of bullying behavior. Any person who engages in any of these prohibited behaviors that constitutes bullying shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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For more information regarding this policy and for definitions please see Board Policy JICK-E3 adopted January 2017.

Bullying and Cyberbullying Bullying and other forms of peer mistreatment are detrimental to the school environment as well as student learning, achievement and well-being. Peer mistreatment interferes with the mission of the schools to educate their students and disrupts the operations of the schools. Bullying and other forms of peer mistreatment affect not only students who are targets but also those who participate in and witness such behavior. These behaviors must be addressed to ensure student safety and an inclusive learning environment. Any student who engages in conduct that constitutes bullying is subject to disciplinary consequences which may include suspension and/or expulsion. A student’s bullying behavior may also be addressed through other behavioral interventions.

Discrimination and Harassment Baxter Academy prohibits discrimination or harassment of students based on race, color, gender, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic class, ancestry or national origin, age, disability, gender identity, gender expression, or genetic information. Examples of prohibited harassment include but are not limited to: 1. Unwelcome sexual advances, gestures, comments or contact 2. Threats 3. Offensive jokes 4. Ridicule, slurs, derogatory actions or remarks

Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment includes but is not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or pressure to engage in sexual activity, physical contact of a sexual nature, gestures, comments, or other physical, written or verbal conduct that is gender-based that interferes with a student’s education. School employees, fellow students, volunteers, and visitors to the school, and other persons with whom students may interact in order to pursue school activities are required to refrain from such conduct. Baxter Academy is a public charter school that complies with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), 20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq., and its implementing regulations, 34 C.F.R. Part 106, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities operated by recipients of Federal financial assistance. Sexual harassment of students, which includes acts of sexual violence, is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX. Sexual violence is defined by the U.S. Department of Education and its Office for Civil Rights (OCR) as referring to physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent. Title IX protects students from sexual harassment in a school’s education programs and activities. This means that Title IX protects students in connection with all the academic, educational, extracurricular, athletic, and other programs of the school, whether those programs take place in a school’s facilities, on a school bus, at a class or training program.

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Complaint Procedure Complaints about harassment or discrimination of students, and questions about school harassment and discrimination policies, should be referred to the Assistant Principal or the Title IX Coordinator. Our Title IX coordinator is the director of special education. The Title IX coordinator ensures the school is compliant with discrimination and harassment policies and laws, including Title IX, coordinates the investigation and disciplinary process, and reviews compliance to ensure the school fulfills its legal obligations. Additional information about Baxter Academy’s policy and procedures for preventing discrimination and harassment of students can be found in Baxter Academy Policy ACAA, Student Discrimination and Harassment, and Policy ACAA-R, Student Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Procedures, which are available on the Baxter Academy website. A substantiated charge against a student will subject them to disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion.

Discipline Policy at Baxter Academy Baxter Academy’s discipline policy was created from the perspective that all behavior is communication. As a community, we help each other to communicate effectively, which means holding students accountable for their behavior and being proactive about addressing the issues that violate community norms and expectations. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner so as not to interfere with the orderly educational process and the safe operation of the school. Discipline is progressive, the teacher or staff member who observes the inappropriate behavior by students typically addresses the behavior individually. The response may be a discussion with the student, contact with parents, or the revocation of lunch privileges. Non-exclusionary Discipline: Consequences for violation of Baxter’s Code of Conduct are designed to correct and address the root causes of a student's specific misbehavior while retaining the student in class or school. Restorative school practices aim to repair the harm done to relationships and persons from the student's misbehavior. Some examples of non exclusionary discipline consequences are: meeting with the student and the student's parents; required reflective activities; mediation when there is mutual conflict between peers; counseling; anger management; health counseling or intervention; mental health counseling; participation in skill building work, such as social-emotional cognitive skills building, resolution circles and restorative conferencing; and community service. Exclusionary Discipline: In cases of severe or repeated infractions, students may be referred to an administrator for further action. In these cases, disciplinary action may include suspension (in-school and out-of school), a hearing before the Baxter Board of Directors, or expulsion. Safety of the entire community will always be prioritized in issues of discipline. Baxter policies related to expulsion and suspension follow the dictates established by Maine Law Title 20-A §1001. Duties of school boards, sub section 8-A to 9-C.

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Ultimately, Baxter teachers, administration, and board members want students to have a chance to learn from their misbehaviors, and ideally to be restored to the community, the offended party, and themself. Disciplinary consequences aim to uphold this vision for accountability and student growth. Behaviors that violate Baxter Academy’s Code of Conduct include but are not limited to: ● Inappropriate use of technology, classroom disruption, inappropriate behavior (minor), public displays of affection (minor), clothing (minor), skipping class or wandering. ● Bullying or Civil Rights Violations ● Sexual Harassment and Abuse ● Theft of intellectual or physical property ● Threats ● Fighting ● Vandalism ● Possession, distribution or use of illegal substance(s) or drug paraphernalia ● Extreme or habitual inappropriate behavior (ie. obscene or lewd behavior, consistent PDA, inappropriate speech, etc.) ● Violation of the Code of Academic Integrity

Major Infractions The following infractions may be referred to the Portland Police Department for possible legal action. Major infractions remain on a student's record throughout the student's school career. A major infraction will result in an immediate referral to the Board of Directors for possible long-term action. Major infractions include the offenses below and any other offense school administrators consider serious enough to warrant long term action: ● Possession, distribution, or use of illegal substance(s) or drug paraphernalia ● Possession of a weapon ● Fighting ● Sexual Harassment and Abuse ● Verbal or physical threats to the community ● Theft ● Hacking and other cybercrimes ● Vandalism ● Tampering with, disabling, impeding access to, rendering inoperable, or otherwise damaging any items or equipment related to safety and security including but not limited to alarms, locks, sensors, signage, cameras, fire suppression systems, electronic defibrillation and other life-saving equipment.

Tobacco Use and Possession Policy In order to promote the health, welfare and safety of students, staff and visitors and to promote the cleanliness of Baxter Academy facilities, the Board of Education prohibits smoking and all other use of tobacco or tobacco like products, including but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, spit and smokeless tobacco, chew, snuff, snus, electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, vape products, and other electronic nicotine delivery systems. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

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All school buildings and property shall be tobacco-free at all times (24 hours per day, 365 days a year). This includes all days when school is not in session and all functions taking place on school grounds, such as athletic events or other activities not associated with, or sponsored by, Baxter Academy. The policy applies to everyone on school grounds, including students, school staff, parents, and visitors. The policy extends to school buses. Possession of any tobacco products is prohibited by anyone (adult or minor) on district property, in school vehicles, and at school-sponsored functions at any time. The sale, distribution, dispensing, or promotion of tobacco products and paraphernalia is prohibited on school property and at all school functions. This policy will be communicated through a variety of efforts to educate students, school staff, parents, and visitors. Tobacco-free signs will be posted in highly visible areas at facility entrances and throughout the school property, including athletic facilities. The policy will be listed on the school website and printed in employee, student, and adult education booklets on an annual basis. Everyone is required to comply with Baxter Academy’s tobacco-free policy. Enforcement of this policy will follow the standard procedures of the school for each audience. All school staff are expected to enforce the policy under the direction of the Head of School. The Head of School shall report any violations of this policy/procedure, as promptly as practicable, to the Executive Director.

Weapons In an effort to ensure a safe environment for students and employees, all persons are prohibited from the following conduct at all times on school premises, in any vehicle on school property, school bus, or at any school-sponsored activity. Possessing or using articles commonly employed or designed to inflict bodily harm and/or to intimidate other persons will result in an out of school suspension for 10 consecutive school days and a recommendation to the executive director for an expulsion hearing. Examples of such articles include, but are not limited to: firearms, ammunition, explosives, “brass knuckles”, switchblades, butterfly knives, chains, clubs, and kung fu “stars”. Use of any object as a weapon, although not necessarily designed to be a weapon, to inflict or to threaten bodily harm and/or to intimidate, coerce or harass will result in a suspension and possible expulsion. Examples of such objects include, but are not limited to: belts, other articles of clothing, combs, pencils, files, compasses, scissors, paintball guns and realistic replicas or “trainers” of weapons (including some toys). Students found in possession of a firearm on school property (including in storage areas, book bags, school buses or vehicles parked on school property) will be recommended to the Baxter Board of Directors for an expulsion hearing in accordance with state and federal statutes. Potentially dangerous multi-tools such as “Leathermans”, and other similar items, must be stored in a school designated tool room and may only be used under supervision by a teacher. Under no circumstances can a student have these types of tools in their possession in the school except when working in a supervised work area such as that in the fablab. Students are not permitted to bring such tools into the building. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Items, equipment, or software designed or capable of circumventing, damaging, disabling, or otherwise reducing the efficacy of school safety equipment are considered to be weaponized tools under this policy and are explicitly prohibited. Examples include but are not limited to lockpicks, bolt cutters, RF signal disruptors, etc. These items are not permitted within the facility under any circumstances. Any individual who finds, sees, or hears of a weapon on school property must notify the nearest staff member immediately.

Searches The Board of Directors seeks to maintain a safe and orderly environment in the school. While students have the Fourth Amendment right to be free from unreasonable searches, this right is diminished in the school environment however, because of the unique need to maintain a safe atmosphere where learning and teaching can occur. Schools must strike a balance between the student's right to privacy and the need to maintain school safety. Baxter Academy administrators are authorized to question or search students in accordance with this policy and accompanying administrative procedures. Students may not bring, possess, or store at school any items or substances which are prohibited by law, Board policies, or school rules, or which interfere with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school. Student use of all school storage facilities, including but not limited to lockers, desks, and parking lots, is a privilege granted by the school. All storage facilities are school property and remain under the control, custody, and supervision of the school. Students have no expectation of privacy in school storage facilities or for any items placed in such storage facilities. Baxter Academy administrators have the authority to inspect and search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion, and without notice or consent. Note that during the school day, the school grounds include areas accessed by students using their Open Campus privilege. A school official may conduct a legal search of a student’s person or a student’s possessions on school property if that school official has reasonable suspicion of an infraction that has been, is being, or soon to be anticipated. Such searches on school property may be conducted without notice, consent or a search warrant. If a student does not consent to a search, they will be assumed in possession of what is being searched for and the requisite discipline will be followed. Any illicit object and/or substance discovered will be confiscated and the school resource officer and/or proper authorities will be contacted. Baxter Academy procedures on student questioning and searches are further detailed within our school board policies.

Restraint and Seclusion Policy The State of Maine requires school districts to follow a policy on restraint and seclusion. Please see board policies within the school website for more information.

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

Code of Academic Integrity

Baxter students are mindful of the values underlying an honest and true education, and the challenges posed by a continuously evolving world and, in particular, the immediate access to resources found on the Internet. Baxter students agree to accept personal responsibility for honorable behavior in all of their academic endeavors, to assist one another in maintaining and promoting personal integrity and ethical standards and to follow the principles and standards set for in this Code of Academic Integrity. Violations of the Code of Academic Integrity may take several forms. Plagiarism and cheating are two examples of violations of the Code of Academic integrity. Plagiarism is typically described as duplication of another’s work without full acknowledgement of the debt to the original source, however it also includes any of the following: ● Direct duplication by copying (or allowing to be copied) another’s work, whether from a book, article, website, another student’s assignment, including from an artificial intelligence source etc. ● Duplication in any manner of another’s work during an exam. ● Paraphrasing of another’s work closely, with minor changes but with the essential meaning, form and/or progression of ideas maintained. ● Piecing together sections of the work of others into a new whole. ● Submitting one’s own work which has already been submitted for assessment purposes in another subject. ● Producing assignments in conjunction with other people (e.g. another student, tutor), which should be your own independent work. Cheating results in a loss of integrity on the part of the individual committing the act and on the educational process that is undermined by the act of cheating; and it is a violation of the Code of Academic Integrity. If you are unclear about an assignment or its methodology, or the permissible bounds of assistance for completing your work, please speak to your teacher(s) and ask for clarification. Consequences for violating the Code Of Academic Integrity: ● First Offense: Student will receive a zero on the assignment, teacher will notify parents and make a report to the Assistant Principal. ● Second Offense: Student will receive a zero on the assignment, teacher will notify parents and file a report with the Assistant Principal. The student will face further disciplinary action including possible suspension. ● Third Offense: The student meets before the Head of School and Assistant Principal to consider expulsion or other lesser penalties.

2023-2024 Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form Thank you for taking the time to read the Baxter Academy for Technology and Science 2023-2024 Student Handbook.

Baxter has adopted principles and procedures for academic integrity from other educational institutions, in particular High Tech High Science and Technology Charter Schools. 185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500

To ensure that all students and parents understand these policies and procedures, we require that all students annually review this handbook and complete the Baxter Academy 2023-2024 Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form

185 Lancaster St. Portland, Maine 04101

207-699-5500