THAYER ACADEMYHANDBOOK2012-2013

THAYER ACADEMY HANDBOOKTABLE OF CONTENTS

Essential Information

Telephone Hours & Numbers 1

Messages for Students 1

Attendance Desk 1

Emergency Closing Information 1

Class Year Guide 1

Thayer Academy Mission Statement 2

Purposes & Objectives 2

Thayer Academy Honor Code 3

General Information for all Students Upper & Middle SchoolsThayer Libraries & Their Resources 4

Hale Learning Center 4

Lockers 5

Health Services & Medical Emergencies 5

Medical Requirements for School Attendance 5

Verification of Immunizations 5

Yearly Physical Exam & Medical Consent Forms 5

Children With Special Health Care Needs 6

Medications 6

Minor Illness or Injury During the School Day 6

General Guidelines for Student Dismissal or Absence Due to Illness 6

Medical Appointments 6

Extended Absences 7

Social Events on Campus 7

School-Sponsored Off-Campus Trips 8

Buildings & Facilities 9

Descriptions of Buildings & Facilities 10

School-Wide Policies & ProceduresCommunity Values & Expectations 12

Harassment & Anti-Bullying Policies 12

Bullying 13

Sexual Harassment 14

Hazing 14

Illegal Drug & Alcohol Policy 15

Appropriate Use Policy (Technology AUP) 16

Parental Communications Guidelines 17

Attendance ProceduresAttendance, Late Arrivals & Early Dismissals 18

TransportationSchool Buses 19

MBTA Passes 19

Cars on Campus 20

Interscholastic AthleticsOverview of Interscholastic Athletics 20

Rules & Guidelines 20

ISL Sportsmanship Creed 21

Varsity Teams 22

Sports & Teams 22

Parking at Thayer Athletic Sites 22

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� Middle School Policies & procedures �

General InformationAfter-School Study Hall 23

Arrival 23

Bookstore 23

Computer Use 23

Dismissal 23

Lockers 24

Lost & Found 24

Lunch 24

Recess 24

Study Periods 24

Telephone Use 24

Valuables & Non-Essentials 24

The Advisor System 25

Conference Periods 25

Parent Conferences 25

Parent Awareness Forms 25

The Middle School Academic Program 26

Homework 26

Guided Study 26

The Hale Learning Center 27

Placement (Accelerated Math & English) 27

Effort Grades 27

Effort Honor Roll 28

Achievement Grades 28

Achievement Honor Roll 28

Academic Warning 28

Academic Probation 28

Exams 29

Promotion 29

General Conduct

Middle School Dress Policy 29

Behavior 30

Food in School 31

Conduct Marks & the Detention System 31

Disciplinary Probation 31

Discipline Committee 31

Extra-Curricular ProgramsAthletic Programs 32

Health & Wellness 32

Inter-Scholastic Teams 32

Eligibility for Inter-Scholastic Competition 33

Conduct & Athletics 33

Attendance & Athletics 33

No Middle School Sports Between Seasons 33

Activities • Middle SchoolStudent Ambassadors Program 34

Social Life 34

To confirm that you have read the Handbook, please complete the online Handbook Agreement at www.thayer.org/HandbookAgreement.

MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

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� UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES �

Advising & Counseling 35

Academic Life & Expectations

Requirements for Graduation 35

Credit Value for Courses 35

Study Hall 35

Senior Independent Study Project 35

Course Selection 36

Add/Drop Policy 36

Honor Roll 36

Grade Point Average 36

Academic Probation 37

Attendance & Class Credit 37

Late Work 37

Promotion to Next Grade 37

Incompletes 38

Conduct & Expectations 38

Upper School Dress Policy 38

Scholarly Integrity & Responsibility 39

Health & Wellness Classes 39

The Hale Learning Center 39

Schedules 40

Test Day Schedule 40

Lunch Schedule 40

Upper School Daily Bell Schedule 41

Disciplinary PolicyGeneral Expectations 42

Definitions of Disciplinary Infractions & Possible Consequences 42

Serious Offenses 42

Very Serious Offenses 43

Definitions of Some Important Disciplinary Consequences 43

Disciplinary Procedures 43

Extra-Curricular Programs • Upper School Activities, Organizations, Clubs & Community 44

Community Leaders • Upper School 44

Thayer Academy Parents’ AssociationParents’ Association Executive Board 44

TAPA Volunteer Committees & Chairs 44

To confirm that you have read the Handbook, please complete the online Handbook Agreement at www.thayer.org/HandbookAgreement.

UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

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� ESSENTIAL INFORMATION �

Thayer Academy l 745 Washington Street l Braintree MA 02184 l www.thayer.org

TELEPHONE HOURS 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

PHONE FAXMain Number/Upper School Office 781-843-3580 781-380-8785Admission Office 781-664-2221 781-843-2916Alumni/Development Office 781-380-0500 781-380-0510Athletics 781-664-2289 781-848-1027Business Office 781-380-0503 781-380-0521Middle School 781-380-0513 781-380-0520Camp Thayer 781-848-7255 or 781-848-7258

MESSAGES FOR STUDENTSl Messages for students will be delivered, if possible, during the school day. l Urgent messages will be delivered as soon as possible.

ATTENDANCE DESKCall Middle or Upper School Offices. (See numbers above.)

EMERGENCY CLOSING INFORMATIONThayer uses an automated phone call system to contact parents in case of a school wide emergency orto relay information about weather-related cancellations or delays. Notification will also be posted onour website, www.thayer.org.

To find out if school is closed or delayed, parents can also tune to radio station WBZ (1030) or WRKO(680) or check television channel 4 (CBS), 5 (ABC), or 7 (NBC). After 5:30 AM, students and parentsmay also call the school number and, at the recording, press “4,” where there will be a message if Thayeris closed or starting late. The school will make its decision based on weather reports and an early morn-ing drive in our area. We recognize however, that conditions vary widely for our constituents, and thefinal decision on whether or not to have students drive to school rests with the parents. Students whosefamilies do not wish them to be on the roads even when school is open will be given the opportunityto make up any missed assignments or tests without penalty.

CLASS YEAR GUIDE ’13 Senior ’14 Junior ’15 Sophomore ’16 Freshman ’17 8th grade ’18 7th grade ’19 6th grade

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Thayer Academy Handbook 2011 – 2012

� THAYER ACADEMY MISSION STATEMENT �

The mission of Thayer Academy is to inspire a diverse community of students

to moral, intellectual, aesthetic, and physical excellence so that each may rise to honorable achievement

and contribute to the common good.

PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES

Thayer Academy provides a rigorous and challenging college preparatoryeducation to students from diverse social, ethnic, economic, and academic backgrounds. The Academy seeks to equip students with the

skills, knowledge, and experiences to realize their potential in college and be-yond. At Thayer we believe that students will find academic success whengiven opportunities for individual achievement and self-expression.

The Thayer curriculum strives to instill fundamental knowledge and study skillswhile stimulating intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Courses are offered across a wide range of disciplines and at different levels so that stu-dents can explore a variety of subjects at a pace that will challenge them tothe best of their abilities. Furthermore, the curriculum and the Thayer envi-ronment combine to encourage understanding and appreciation of differentcultures, develop critical-thinking skills, enhance creativity, promote physicaland emotional well-being, and foster a concern for others.

This Handbook is for official school use only and is intended strictly for communication of a personal nature among the individuals listed. Use of thisHandbook for any purpose, including, but not limited to, reproducing and storing in a retrieval system by any means, electronic or mechanical, photo-copying or using the addresses or other information contained herein for anymailing or communication purpose, is strictly prohibited.

Thayer Academy admits students of any race, color, religion, gender, familystructure, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national or ethnic origin to allrights, privileges, programs, and activities generally afforded or made avail-able to students at Thayer. The Academy does not discriminate in violation ofany law or statute in the administration of its educational policies, admissionpolicies, financial assistance programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

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� THAYER ACADEMY HONOR CODE �

In order to build a community of distinction and moral character at Thayer

Academy, each student must be committed to the ideals of responsibility,

integrity, and mutual respect expressed in the Thayer Academy Honor Code.

Responsibility is ...< Taking the initiative to do what I know is right.

< Accepting consequences, without deception

or evasion.

< Holding myself accountable for all of my actions

and words.

< Recognizing that my behavior affects the whole

Thayer community.

Integrity is ...< Upholding personal standards of honesty.

< Taking pride in the truth.

< Committing to personal values.

< Maintaining the respect of the community

by avoiding lying, cheating, or stealing.

Mutual respect is ...< Understanding that how I treat everyone,

not just my friends, is a key piece of who I am.

< Respecting the differences, opinions, and individualism

of other members of the community.

< Allowing others to express opinions and ideas freely,

without fear of being mocked.

< Treating others as I want to be treated.

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� GENERAL INFORMATION FOR ALL STUDENTS

IN THE UPPER & MIDDLE SCHOOLS �

THAYER LIBRARIES & THEIR RESOURCESThe Upper School’s Southworth Library houses over 15,000 volumes, plus extensive periodical andnewspaper collections. The library also has 19 desktop Macs, 18 wireless laptops, 54 periodical subscrip-tions, 50+ subscriptions to online reference databases. Students have access to a black & white laserprinter, a color laser printer, a scanner, and a copier. The online catalog is available from any computeron campus and from home. Southworth Library is a member of the regional library system and offersinter-library loan service. There are three small study rooms where classes can meet or students cancollaborate on projects.

The Middle School Library contains a computer lab and a connected resource room to support theMiddle School curriculum. The lab has 18 Macs, a teacher station, and an interactive white board. Theresource room has wireless laptops available. There is an extensive fiction and reference collection aswell as space for additional materials from Southworth Library. The Resource Center houses a state-of-the-art copier/printer/fax machine. A conference room for small-group study is also available.

Both library spaces are designed for quiet study and pleasure reading. Students are expected to behaveappropriately at all times and to be respectful of others who are studying. Students who do not followa librarian’s direction will be referred to their Advisor, Class Dean, or Division Director for disciplinary action. With the exception of water, no food or drinks are permitted, unless specifically authorized bythe Library Director.

Loan Period and Lost-Book PolicyIn most instances there is no limit on the number of books that may be borrowed. Books are checkedout for three weeks and may be renewed. Overdue notices are sent to advisors on a regular basis, andparents might be contacted if books are not returned. At the end of each semester, bills will be senthome for unreturned or lost materials.

Computer UseStudents using computers in a library space are expected to follow the guidelines in Thayer’s Policy forAppropriate Use of Technology. At any time, librarians may withdraw computer privileges for misuse.

Passes to the Library (Upper School)Sophomores on honor roll, juniors, and seniors may use the library without a pass. All freshmen andsophomores assigned to study hall must receive a pass from a subject teacher to do library work in thatsubject. The passes must also be signed by the study hall proctor and then left at the circulation deskin the library. If a student leaves before the end of the period, the pass must be signed by a librarianand brought back to the study hall proctor.

Library StaffKaren W. Starr, Director, Thayer LibrariesJanet Langer, Assistant Librarian, Southworth LibraryBarbara Browne, Library Assistant, Southworth LibrarySophie Browne, Middle School Librarian

HALE LEARNING CENTERThayer Academy designs, implements, and coordinates approaches to learning and teaching that offerstudents the best chance of success. The Hale Learning Center provides additional support to studentswho face academic challenges including, but not limited to language skills deficits. The Hale Center’strained professional staff analyzes students learning profiles, works directly with students and their par-ents, recommends practical teaching approaches to the faculty, assists in teacher training to meet stu-dent needs, supports the admissions selection process, and when appropriate, consults with theAcademy’s educational psychologist to develop additional learning strategies for students requiringsupport.4

The services of the Hale Learning Center fall into three inter-related categories:1. Direct support for students2. Partnership with parents3. Support for faculty

Hale Learning Center Director Erica Archabal integrates, supervises, and coordinates services for grades6-12. Each division has its own Academic Support Coordinator and a designated space to provide grade-and age-appropriate strategies to support Middle and Upper School students.

For more information about how the Hale Learning Center functions in each division, go towww.thayer.org/HLC

LOCKERSLockers are available for student use. These lockers are the property of the school and may be inspectedby school officials to maintain health and safety or to investigate suspected storage of dangerous, unau-thorized, or illegal items. Thayer cannot be responsible for theft or damage to items stored in studentlockers. Students are urged to leave valuables at home.

HEALTH SERVICES & MEDICAL EMERGENCIESSchool nurses are clinical health providers who are vital in a school setting and who play a strategicrole in meeting the myriad of health needs presented in schools. Please feel free to contact ThayerAcademy’s school nurses regarding your child’s health considerations.

A school nurse (registered nurse or R.N.) is available on campus from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on schooldays and can be reached at 781-664-2299:

Kathy Monahan, RN, MSN (full-time) kmonahan@thayer.org

Shelly Creager, RN, BSN (part-time) screager@thayer.org

The primary location of the Health Services Office is on the first floor of the Sawyer building, acrossfrom Memorial Gym. There is a smaller satellite office in the Middle School Student Office area.

Specific health requirements for all students are outlined below, along with other health services topicsat Thayer Academy.

MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE1. Verification of ImmunizationsAll students must have a copy of required immunizations submitted and reviewed by the nurse to beeligible to attend school. (Please refer to state regulations 105 CMR 220.000: Immunization of Studentsbefore Admission to School, that require each child, in either private or public schools, to meet grade-entry immunization requirements.) Immunizations are a vital control mechanism for communicable diseases, and evaluation of current immunization status is recognized also as an important checkpointin determining the student’s affiliation with a primary health care provider. Exemptions to this require-ment are allowed only for documented medical or religious reasons. In the event of occurrences of acommunicable disease among the Thayer Academy students or employees, students who do not havedocumented immunity to the disease may need to be excluded from school, according to state guidelines.

2. Yearly Physical Exam & Medical Consent FormsA physical exam is required every 12 months for all students at Thayer Academy, and a printed reportof this annual physical exam needs to be submitted to the nurse each year. We understand that for in-surance purposes, each student’s date of renewal is different.

Also, a new medical consent form is required each year to ensure clear communication of the most up-to-date contact information and health information. A copy of the medical consent form is provided tothe athletic trainers, coaches and faculty for off-campus trips. 5

Please note that Thayer Academy does not conduct or require the same health screenings that the stateof Massachusetts requires for all public school students, e.g. hearing, vision and scoliosis screening. Werecommend that you consult with your health care provider to conduct these screenings during the an-nual physical exam. Or you may consult with your local school committee or local board of health abouthaving these screenings completed.

Children with Special Health Care NeedsIf a child has asthma, allergies, diabetes, seizures, attention deficit disorder, or any other condition re-quiring special health services in the school, the parent should meet with the nurse to develop an Indi-vidual Health Care Plan prior to school entry. Usually, written physician’s orders for care in school arerequired.

MedicationsThe medication administration policy for Thayer Academy is per state regulations, and is managed bythe school nurse (refer to 105 CMR 210.000: The Administration of Prescription Medications in Publicand Private School). When a child requires short-term or long-term medication during the school day,parents should contact the nurse and complete a form for “Medication at School”. This form is availableon the Thayer Academy website or obtained in the Health Office. This form provides (a) parental con-sent and (b) physician’s written order. In addition, the parent must supply (c) the medication (30 dayssupply) in the original container, with the prescription label.

With exception of inhalers or EpiPens, students are not allowed to carry medications, prescription ornon-prescription, on their person. Medications are to be kept and administered in the Health Office.

Tylenol (or generic acetaminophen), maximum of 1000 mg or Motrin (or generic ibuprofen), maximumof 400 mg are available as needed (under the prescription of the Thayer Academy School PhysicianConsultant, with written permission from the parent on the Medical Consent Form. These over-the-counter medications are administered only by the nurse, after assessing the physical complaint. If ahigher dose is desired, a separate form must be signed by the student’s parents and physician.

Minor Illness or Injury During the School DayOne of the primary goals of health services is to support the students to attend all classes. Therefore,whenever possible, a visit to the Health Office should be in between classes, during break, or duringfree periods. Unless it is urgent, the student obtains a pass from the teacher or advisor to go to theHealth Office during class hours. The service of the nurse is available during the school day to assessdiscomfort, illness, and to provide interventions that will facilitate the student feeling better to resumeclass attendance. If the student feels better, a pass will be issued from the nurse to present to theteacher, validating the range of time the student was at the Health Office.

If dismissal is needed, the parent or guardian will be contacted to arrange for the student to be pickedup, or to obtain permission for the student to travel home by themselves (if determined by the nurseto be medically feasible). The student waits in the Health Office until the parent arrives. If deemed med-ically necessary, the nurse may request a note from a physician documenting that medical care was ob-tained and allowing the student to return to school.

General guidelines for when a student would be dismissed or should remain out of school because of illness:l Temperature of > 100 degrees F (by mouth). (The student should be without fever for 24 hours before returning to school).

l Vomiting or diarrhea. (The student should be able to eat and drink sufficient liquids without vomiting before returning to school).

l Discomfort or malaise not improved with rest

Medical AppointmentsParents are encouraged to arrange appointments outside of academic school hours whenever possible.However, when medical appointments are necessary during the academic day, we request that a notefrom the parent or physician be submitted to the divisional student office to designate the time awayfrom school as “excused”.

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Extended Absences

(Please refer to the section on Attendance Procedures regarding regular absences). When a student isabsent for five consecutive days, a note from the student’s medical care provider is required (kept inthe individual student health record in the Health Office). If a student is diagnosed with a medical orpsychological condition that requires an extended absence or recurring absences throughout the schoolyear, a note from the physician is also required describing the nature of the illness, and anticipatedlength of absence. As soon as possible, the parent is encouraged to contact the nurse regarding specificconcerns and information to be provided to teachers and other school staff.

If a student has frequent repeated absences due to illness, without a documented medical or psycho-logical condition, the School Nurse may contact the parents to request a healthcare consultation or todiscuss a plan to facilitate improved school attendance. Occasionally, a medical leave of absence fromThayer Academy is warranted. A medical leave of absence, for a semester or longer, may be the resultof a chronic illness, a newly developed medical condition (e.g. concussion with significant sustainedsymptoms), or a psychological or emotional condition. Thayer Academy will, of course, make the final decision regarding the granting of a medical leave ofabsence and the conditions of return. While each situation is considered individually, the following pro-cedures and guidelines will help inform the Academy’s decision: l Ongoing communication between the parents and Thayer Academy faculty is essential, via phone

calls, email and direct meetings. l A written note from a medical professional is required for a medical leave of absence, describing

the nature of the illness, and anticipated plan of care, including length of absence, whether com-pletion of academic work outside of school is feasible, etc.

l If not indicated in the initial medical note, written medical clearance for safe return to school at aspecific date is required.

l Team meetings will be scheduled most importantly, to plan for the student’s return to school (en-compassing academic requirements, health, social and emotional adjustments of the student andfamily). A written plan for re-entry will be documented, including the plan for periodic assessmentof the transition back to school.

If circumstances allow, students who are on a medical leave are encouraged to continue some academicwork during their absence from school attendance. However, because contact with teachers and otherstudents in the classroom is considered an integral part of the academic experience at Thayer Academy,continuing work while on medical leave is considered a temporary measure only. The viability of a stu-dent’s continued work will be reviewed throughout the medical leave by the Division Director and thestudent’s teachers. The school reserves the right to withdraw a student from any classes when, in theopinion of the school, a student is unable to maintain his or her academic standing.

Every reasonable effort will be made to support the student’s progression in his/her academic grade.It is likely, however, that outside tutoring or summer school may be needed.

Thayer Academy’s medical leave policy does not alter, in any way, its academic requirements, tuitionrefund rules, disciplinary procedures, or school standards governing its students. The final decisionabout academic credit, tuition, and the impact of an extended absence on matriculation is made by theadministration.

SOCIAL EVENTS ON CAMPUSOnly students attending school functions, such as a rehearsal, dance, or performance, are to be on cam-pus in the evening. These students are reminded that the use of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs is strictlyprohibited and that they bear full responsibility for the behavior of any friends or guests who may behere at their invitation. Students who leave a school dance before it is over may not return. The class,club, or organization sponsoring an event is responsible for making all the arrangements for chaperones,police, and cleanup. Chaperones should be treated with consideration and courtesy. Everyone shouldgreet the chaperones on arrival and thank them on departure.

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SCHOOL-SPONSORED OFF-CAMPUS TRIPSWherever Thayer students go, they represent the Academy. We have often been complimented byrestaurant owners, theater managers, bus drivers, and coaches for our students’ courteous behaviorduring off-campus trips. We are proud of this tradition and trust it will continue.

Students must bring an official Thayer Assumption of Risk Form from their parents whenever they aregoing on a field trip or an off-campus trip scheduled by the school (except team members going onregularly scheduled athletic trips who already have a permission slip on file). Faculty sponsors of anactivity will notify parents of transportation arrangements and other details and, when the trip is over,will remain at school until all students have secured a ride home.

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B U I L D I N G S & F A C I L I T I E S

1. Main Building (Upper School) 6. Coach Richard V. Sawyer Athletic Center • English• History• Foreign Languages• Counseling• Mac Computer Labs• College Counseling• Board of Trustees

Meeting Room

• Admission Office• Headmaster’s Office • US Director’s Office• Student Office• The Brickyard• Language Lab

• Memorial Gymnasium • Alumni Gymnasium • Locker Rooms• Athletic Offices• Camp Thayer Office• Hanflig Technology

Center• Nurse’s Office• Classrooms• Fish Center for

Physical Fitness • IT Office

2. Cahall Campus Center (Upper & Middle Schools) 7. Middle School Building• Dining Hall • Tiger’s Den• Locker Rooms• Campus Store• Student Commons

• Parents’ Association Conference Room

• Judith Bryant Hale ’56Courtyard

• Administrative Offices • Music Room• Classrooms (Grades 6-8)• Art Studio• Library • Thompson Hall

3. Glover Science Building (Upper School) 8. Alumni House (700 Washington Street)• Math • Science • Resource Room• Physics Lab Archives• Hale Learning Center

• Fernand LaChance Lab• Gandalf Lecture Hall• Mac Computer Lab• Computer Science/Labs

• Development Office • Alumni & Parent

Programs • Communications • Publications

4. Frothingham Hall (Upper School) 9. Business Office (19 Hobart Avenue)

• Visual Arts Studios • Instrumental Music

• Academic Tech Support • Visual Arts Lab

• Billing• Financial Assistance

5. Libraries 10. Center for the Arts

Middle School Library• Print, Electronic &

Film Media • Reading Room• Computer Lab

Southworth Library (US) • Print, Electronic &

Film Media• Seminar Room• Bakker Reading Room• McCusker Study Room • Video Arts Lab• Benelli Writing Center• Pottery Studio• Thayer Art Gallery

• Hale Theater • Dance Studio• Choral Music Studios • Instrumental Music

Studios

BUILDINGS & FACILITIES

� THE CAMPUS �

DESCRIPTIONS OF BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

Cahall Campus CenterThe Campus StoreThe Campus Store (formerly known as The Cage) is located on the second floor of Sawyer AthleticCenter. BOOKSTORE MANAGER: AnnMarie Leonard P ’03, ’06 (aleonard@thayer.org.)

Campus Store HoursMon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Wed (Game Day) 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Campus BookstoreBooks can be ordered only online or by phone. To order books, please follow this process:

l Go to www.thayer.org/bookstorel Select your school division (Middle School or Upper School).l Begin shopping for your textbooks. All major credit cards are accepted.l To order by phone, call 877.477.6217. l Orders are shipped directly to your front door in 2-3 business days.

The Dining HallCahall Dining Hall provides hot lunches, sandwiches, soup, fruit, vegetables, beverages, and dessertsevery school day. To maintain the cleanliness of the dining hall and the rest of the campus, eating is allowed only in the dining hall, the Brickyard (student common area in the basement of Main Building),and certain designated areas outside. Food may not be taken from the dining hall.

Center for the Arts & Frothingham HallThe Center for the Arts houses rehearsal space for the performing arts classes, and Hale Theater wherestudent theatrical and musical productions are staged. Connected directly to the Center for the Arts,Frothingham Hall provides additional space for visual arts studios. Upper School meetings are usuallyheld on Monday mornings in Hale Theater. Monday Meetings are opportunities to hold forums, listen tospeakers, enjoy performances, and communicate with the entire community. Students may not bringbooks and papers to meetings and are expected to give full attention to the speaker or performer,whether they are members of our own community or guests of the Academy. Students are expected todress up every Monday.

Athletic FacilitiesFor their own safety, students may use the athletic facilities only with adult supervision. Students arenot allowed to wear street shoes on the basketball floors or wrestling mats. Any non-scheduled use ofthe athletic facilities must be approved by the Athletic Department to ensure proper supervision.

LibrariesSouthworth Library is located on the Upper School campus and is available to the entire school com-munity. There is also a library in the Middle School.

Southworth Library HoursMon, Tues, Thurs 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wed (Game Day), Fri 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Middle School Library Hours Mon-Fri 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

BUILDINGS & FACILITIES

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The BrickyardDuring the school day, use of the Brickyard, located in the basement of Main Building, is extended onlyto Upper School students. After school, all students can use the Brickyard where, snacks and drinks canbe purchased, and students can relax. Students must treat the Brickyard with respect and keep it a neatand pleasant area. Responsibility for keeping the atmosphere pleasant belongs to all students, but the designated Brickyard Committee consists of Senior Class Officers and Senior Community Councilmembers.

Thayer Art Gallery

Thayer Art Gallery, located on the first floor of Upper school Library, exhibits the artwork of students,faculty, and professional artists in the area. Exhibits are open to the public. Interested students havethe opportunity to meet and talk with the professional artists who exhibit their work.

Art Gallery HoursMonday – Friday, when school is in session

The Hale Learning CenterThe Hale Learning Center at Thayer’s Upper and Middle Schools serves students who, with a variety ofdifferent learning challenges, may have trouble finding success in our program. Students in need ofadded support may be referred to the Hale Center by their advisors, teachers, or parents.

The Student CommonsThe Student Commons includes an open gathering space for students, academic lockers, the campusstore and two faculty offices: the office of the Community Council advisor, and the Upper School Deanof Students. The Student Office, where students receive messages and check in, is also located here.

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BUILDINGS & FACILITIES

� SCHOOL-WIDE POLICIES & PROCEDURES �

COMMUNITY VALUES & EXPECTATIONSHonorable BehaviorLife at Thayer is based on honesty, responsibility, and respect for oneself and others. Our rules and poli-cies are designed to support these principles and to provide a safe, friendly place for students to learn,play, and grow as individuals and as members of the community.

Academic HonestyAcademic honesty is doing one’s own work. Academic dishonesty, commonly known as cheating, is defined as participating or intending to participate in a dishonest act for one’s gain. Examples includethe following: l Copying another student’s homework l Looking at another student’s paper to gain information, or using notes or other informative

material when taking a test or quiz l Showing your paper to another for this purpose l Taking, and using as one’s own, the thoughts, words, or plot of another writer (plagiarism) l Using any other action to gain or give an unfair advantage l Forging a note from, or the signature of, a parent or guardian

When more than one student is involved in any way in cheating, all participating students are regardedas guilty of being dishonest. The penalties for academic dishonesty range from a zero on the work tosuspension. Repeated offenses will be cause for placing the student on disciplinary probation or sepa-ration from the school.

DisciplineBy joining the Thayer community, each student agrees to abide by the rules and principles articulatedin this handbook and by such additional rules and regulations as may be established by Thayer fromtime to time. While these rules and principles represent good-faith efforts to clearly state school policies,do note that in all disciplinary matters, Thayer Academy reserves the right, at its own discretion and inits best judgment, to vary from these procedures or to impose such penalties as it deems appropriate.Only in matters related to dismissal or expulsion may decisions be appealed to the Headmaster.

Every student enrolled at Thayer represents not only himself or herself and his or her family, but alsoThayer by his or her conduct, on or off campus, and whether Thayer is in session or not. Thayer has theright at any time to impose disciplinary sanctions, including dismissal or expulsion, on any student ifhis or her actions, on or off campus, violate reasonable expectations of conduct, or in any way damageor impugn the reputation of Thayer, its faculty, or its student body. Such actions may include, but arenot limited to: harassment or bullying, illegal use of drugs and alcohol, shoplifting, vandalism, disruptiveand inappropriate behavior while on campus, or while visiting another school or institution. If a studentis the subject of criminal proceedings (whether by way of arrest, the application for a criminal complaint,or otherwise), Thayer may suspend the student pending the outcome of those proceedings. However,Thayer is in no way bound by either the pending nature or the outcome of any criminal proceedingsagainst a student. When warranted, Thayer may elect to pursue its own disciplinary proceedings andmake its own determinations at any time – before criminal proceedings formally begin, while those pro-ceedings are ongoing, or after those proceedings have concluded.

HARASSMENT & ANTI-BULLYING POLICIESThayer Academy is committed to maintaining an atmosphere in which all members of our communityare treated with respect and dignity. Bullying undermines these objectives and will not be tolerated. Inaddition, in certain circumstances, perpetrators of such behavior could find themselves subjected tocriminal proceedings (see below).

Bullying can include, but is not limited to remarks, rumors, threats, gestures, physical contact, the displayor transmission of images, written, verbal or electronic statements or other acts that are unwelcome or12

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demeaning with respect to appearance, gender, race, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability,or other characteristics. Students whose statements or actions, on or off campus, constitute disrespect,mockery, intimidation, harassment, or bullying (including cyber-bullying) will be subject to disciplinaryaction. Additional legal definitions and consequences can be found on the next page.

BULLYINGMassachusetts Anti-Bullying Law (signed May 3, 2010) defines bullying as:

“the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic expression ora physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: (i) causesphysical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property; (ii) places thevictim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property; (iii) creates a hos-tile environment[*] at school for the victim; (iv) infringes on the rights of the victim at school;or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operationof a school.”

Cyber-bullying is defined by the same statute as:“bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall in-clude, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, dataor intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic,photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, inter-net communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. Cyber-bullying shallalso include (i) the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identityof another person or (ii) the knowing impersonation of another person as the author ofposted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditionsenumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying shallalso include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one per-son or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one ormore persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated inclauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying.”

*A hostile environment, exists when conduct is sufficiently severe or pervasive that it materially interfereswith a student’s educational experience.

In addition, the law also prohibits retaliation against any person who reports bullying, who provides in-formation during an investigation of bullying, or who witnesses or has reliable information pertainingto bullying.

Reporting Bullying or RetaliationAny student who feels he or she or any other student has been the subject of bullying or retaliationshould immediately report the matter to his or her Division Director (Highley Thompson or CarsonSmith). Student reports of bullying may be made anonymously, although no disciplinary action will betaken against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report. Any faculty or staff member of ourschool community who has witnessed or otherwise “become aware of” any bullying or retaliation alsomust, by law, report it to the appropriate Division Director. The Upper and Middle School Counselors(Elizabeth Sullivan or Emily Wierdsma) are available to assist anyone who may need support in reportingsuch activity.

School Response to Allegations of Bullying or RetaliationOnce any allegation of bullying or retaliation is received, a prompt investigation of the charge will beconducted by the appropriate Division Director.

If the Division Director determines that bullying or retaliation has occurred, he shall (i) notify the locallaw enforcement agency if he believes that criminal charges may be pursued against a perpetrator; (ii)take appropriate disciplinary action;** (iii) notify the parents or guardians of a perpetrator; (iv) notifythe parents or guardians of the victim, and to the extent consistent with state and federal law, notifythem of the action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation, (v) assess the victim’sneed for protection and take appropriate steps as necessary to restore a sense of safety for the victim,

and (vi) in consultation with the Upper and Middle School Counselors or others as appropriate, referperpetrators, victims, and appropriate family members of such students for counseling or other appro-priate services.

**The disciplinary actions that may be taken against a perpetrator of bullying or retaliation include thefull range of disciplinary sanctions for other forms of student misconduct, up to and including dismissalfrom the school. In taking disciplinary action, the Academy will strive to balance the need for account-ability with the need to teach appropriate behavior. No disciplinary action will be taken against a studentsolely on the basis of an anonymous report.

If the Division Director determines that a student has knowingly made a false accusation of bullying orretaliation, the Division Director will take appropriate disciplinary action.

SEXUAL HARASSMENTThe Massachusetts Department of Public Health has published The Comprehensive School Health Man-ual with school guidelines regarding sexual harassment.

l Students are protected from sexual harassment under the provisions of Title IX. l The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that schools are required to protect their students from sexual

harassment. l By law, the victim defines sexual harassment. l Sexual harassment in schools is any unwanted or unwelcome sexual attention by students, faculty,

or staff, including sexual suggestions or threats, sexual jokes, spreading sexual rumors, commentsregarding body parts or sexual orientation, staring or pointing at body parts, obscene gestures,display of obscene materials or remarks, grabbing, touching, or intentional physical contact,pulling or touching a person’s clothing, impeding a person’s movements, and any implicit or ex-plicit pressure for sexual activity.

l Any form of retaliation against any person who has made a complaint relating to sexual harass-ment is forbidden.

l Those involved with sexual harassment investigations must protect the confidentiality of all infor-mation relating to the case.

Any student who feels that he or she has been the subject of harassment by anyone in our school com-munity must immediately report the facts of such harassment to his or her Division Director. In order tofacilitate a thorough investigation, this report must be in writing, and should detail specific circum-stances related to any harassment (date, place, name, description of what transpired). Once any alle-gation of harassment is received, a prompt investigation of the charge will be conducted. Any chargedetermined by the investigation to be valid will result in disciplinary action. Disciplinary action may betaken on the basis of any conduct, on or off campus, which poses a threat to persons or property withinthe school community.

HAZINGThe Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires schools to advise all students of An Act Prohibiting thePractice of Hazing (1985). Section 17 of Chapter 269 of the Massachusetts General Laws defines hazingas:

“Any conduct or method of initiation into a student organization, whether on public or pri-vate property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of anystudent or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced cal-isthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of food, liquor, beverage, drug, orother substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely toadversely affect the physical health or safety of any student or other person, or which sub-jects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including deprivation of sleepor rest or extended isolation.”

Violators are subject to fines and/or imprisonment. Any student who feels that he or she has been thesubject of hazing by anyone in our school community must immediately report the facts of such hazingto his or her Division Director.

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MASSACHUSETTS ANTI-HAZING LAW, M.G.L. c. 269, §§ 17-19Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein,shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house ofcorrection for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment. The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conductor method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which wil-fully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conductshall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consump-tion of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forcedphysical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student orother person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including ex-tended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.

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

Section 18.Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeenand is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or perilto himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonablypracticable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thou-sand dollars.

Section 19. Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post sec-ondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is partof such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name orfacilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or studentorganization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that aninstitution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution issue copies of this sectionand sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations shall notconstitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups,teams or organizations.

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

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary edu-cation shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls asa full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary edu-cation shall file, at least annually, a report with the board of higher education and in the case of sec-ondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with itsresponsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student en-rolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifyingthat said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants ofhazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook orsimilar means of communicating the institution’s policies to its students. The board of higher educationand, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governingthe content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any suchinstitution which fails to make such report.

ILLEGAL DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICYThayer’s drug and alcohol policy approaches the challenge of helping students abstain from the use,possession, and sale of illegal substances in several ways.

1. EducationThayer has educational programs in the Middle and Upper Schools designed to help students come totheir own conclusion that drug and alcohol use is unhealthy and dangerous. Similarly, our Parents’ As-sociation and the school’s administration are partners in sponsoring evening programs for parents toheighten awareness, offer informed guidance, and build a sense of common purpose. Not the least ofthese efforts is Thayer’s support of the Safe Homes concept. For those of you who received the Com-munity of Concern Booklet last year, please consult its contents for an assortment of helpful informationand guidelines. Parents new to Thayer will receive the booklet in the fall.

2. Intervention Any student or family who wishes assistance regarding teenage use of illegal substances should contactour Middle School Counselor, Emily Wierdsma (781-664-2241), or our Upper School Counselor, BethSullivan (bsullivan@thayer.org or 781-664-2281). When made aware of substance abuse issues beforethey become disciplinary issues, the school will support the students and families through counselingand in a confidential manner, devoid of disciplinary actions. We all want to help our young people makesound decisions before they cross lines that would endanger themselves or others and before they facedisciplinary consequences.

3. Consequences a. At Thayer-Supervised Events Students should understand that they face dismissal from the

Academy if they sell, use, possess, or are under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs whileparticipating in an event or activity supervised by Thayer Academy. In cases where a student’sactions have been willfully destructive to other persons or property, dangerous to others, or ifthe administration deems any other related action or previous pattern of behavior as damagingor threatening to the community, the student will not be given the opportunity to reapply for

admission to Thayer Academy. A student may be given the opportunity to reapply for admissionafter the passage of a significant amount of time during which they are no longer members ofthis community (i.e., they have been officially dismissed, not suspended). The possibility of astudent’s re-admission will be dependent upon the student’s citizenship record, the level of hon-esty in dealing with this and other matters, the attitude of the involved student’s parents, andthe specific circumstances of the event in question. Additionally, any application for re¬admis-sion would only be considered if certain prescribed stipulations were followed, including, butnot limited to, a drug and alcohol assessment and a significant and meaningful community serv-ice project. Re-acceptance of a former student is at the sole discretion of the Headmaster, inconsultation with the appropriate Division Director.

b. At Events Not Supervised or Sponsored by Thayer Personnel In cases where a student hasused, possessed, or was under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs at an event not underThayer’s supervisory jurisdiction, the school reserves the right to take whatever action it deemsappropriate, including dismissal or expulsion. Please see Rules and Guidelines under Inter-Scholastic Athletics, on pages 00-00 for a discussion of consequences for cases where the Ath-letic Director learns that an athlete has violated training guidelines, even if such activity tookplace at a non- Thayer supervised event.

c. Parental Responsibilities for the Underage Use, Possession, or Sale of Alcohol or Other IllegalDrugs on their Premises The Academy understands that even the most well-intentioned par-ent- supported student gatherings can go wrong for a variety of reasons. We also know thatsome- times students assemble at homes without the knowledge of parents. In such cases, wecertainly would call you if we heard anything about an event that involved student plans to useyour home for an unsupervised party. Furthermore, we know that most parents would neverconsider hosting parties where the illegal use, possession, or sale of alcohol or illegal drugs wasin any way sanctioned or encouraged. Almost all parents are in agreement about their ethicalresponsibilities to other people’s children, and all parents are undoubtedly mindful of the Mas-

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sachusetts Host Law, which cites parental liability, in certain circumstances, for damages anddeath that might result from events held at private homes. Additionally, all Thayer parents needto under- stand that in cases where it can be demonstrated that they have actively participated,aided, or abetted the illegal use, possession, or sale of illegal substances, on their premises orotherwise, the Academy shall certainly weigh options that might very well include severing theAcademy’s relationship with the family in question. Please see the pointers and resources in theCommunity of Concern booklet distributed by Thayer’s Safe Homes Program for tips on howparents can help their children avoid unhealthful and potentially dangerous situations.

The following are respectfully offered as a summary of the basic guidelines associated with Safe Homes:

l No alcohol should be served and no drugs should be made available at a party. l No guests should be admitted who have alcohol or illegal drugs with them or who appear to be

under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. l Parents should be present to supervise a party. l Parents should call host parents before an event. l Students should not be permitted to attend un-chaperoned parties.

� APPROPRIATE USE OF TECHNOLOGY �

Technology is an integral part of Thayer’s academic program and plays an increasingly large role in ourlives outside of school as well. Thayer Academy students are expected to use technological resourcesin ways that affirm the values of the Thayer community. To that end, all students are required to obeythe Appropriate Use of Technology Policy (AUTP).

The AUTP will be distributed to students at the beginning of the year. Once a signed copy is returnedand on file, students will be given access to the Thayer TigerNet. Violations of the Appropriate Use ofTechnology Policy can result in disciplinary actions up to and including suspension or dismissal fromthe Academy.

APPROPRIATE USE OF TECHNOLOGY POLICYl Students are representatives of Thayer Academy, and in that role, they are expected to make de-

cisions – both on and off campus – in ways that conform to the values of Thayer Academy. In thisdocument are guidelines for the appropriate use of technology that supplement the standards ofbehavior discussed in other parts of the Handbook and generally follow common sense guidelinesfor responsible and ethical behavior.

l Students may not use any functions of cell-phones during classes. This includes, but is not limitedto calling, texting, messaging, video or sound recording, and taking still pictures.

l Students may not take pictures on campus or at school functions of any employees of ThayerAcademy or any students without their express permission or permission of the Academy. Underno circumstances, may students record pictures, video, or sound of an inappropriate nature. In ad-dition, students may not record pictures, video, or sound in private settings such as locker roomsand bathrooms.

l All of Thayer’s electronic resources: iPads, computers, printers, servers, voice, data and hostedThayer systems collectively known as the TigerCloud, and the data stored in these systems areowned by Thayer Academy. Student usage of the TigerCloud on and off campus, is restricted toactivities directly related to our academic goals. At all times, students must follow all network se-curity practices that are stated in this document, and others that may be posted at various timesduring the school year. Students must report security risks or violations to a teacher.

l The Academy reserves the right to monitor, inspect, and/or record all data stored in or transmit-ted via the TigerCloud. Use of the TigerCloud is a privilege, not a right. The Academy reserves theright to suspend or terminate a user’s access privileges.

l The use of amusement games and software is not permitted on the TigerCloud, or on any otherThayer computer equipment; nor are users allowed to use any part of the TigerCloud for commer-cial purposes.

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Students will be provided accounts to access the TigerCloud on and off campus. Student accounts pro-vide the means to access services including file storage, a Thayer e-mail account, Thayer’s website, andthe Internet (access to which is filtered when used on campus).

Students may not log onto the TigerCloud in any way other than by using their own account name and password, and they may not use another person’s account. Students may not attempt to learn the pass-words of others or share their passwords with others.

No unauthorized copies of software may be used on the TigerCloud, nor may unauthorized copies ofsoftware be produced on school computers. This includes multiple loading of software products licensed for use on a single machine.

When using Thayer’s electronic resources, students must not give out personal information about them-selves unless it requested by the Academy. Students must never use Thayer’s electronic resources toshare private information on the Internet about other students.

Inappropriate usage of Thayer Academy’s technology resources also includes, but is not limited to Unau-thorized use of chat rooms, unauthorized use of instant messaging systems, accessing any type ofanonymous proxy servers.

Bullying, meanness, inappropriate language, and harassment have no place in the Thayer community.As members of our community, you must conduct yourself in ways that are not hurtful to others or totheir property.

Much of what has been outlined above refers to activity that takes place within the TigerCloud, atThayer–related functions, or on Thayer electronic resources, but it must be understood that harassmentof other students or employees of Thayer Academy by any means – on or off campus – is not acceptable,and the Academy reserves the right to respond with appropriate disciplinary action. In sum, studentsare representatives of Thayer Academy, and in that role they must act in ways that conform to the valuesof Thayer Academy.

� PARENTAL COMMUNICATIONS GUIDELINES �

The school works not just with students, but with families, as virtually all educational objectives areshared by both. It is our belief that much is gained from the positive interaction of several adults workingin the best interest of children, and much is lost without it. Because such a positive and constructiveworking relationship is essential to the accomplishment of the school’s educational mission, Thayer re-serves the right not to renew a student’s enrollment contract if the school reasonably concludes thatthe actions of a parent or guardian make such a positive and constructive relationship impossible orotherwise interfere with the educational objectives.

Parent/teacher communication is often the key to nipping a problem in the bud, and ensuring success.We recommend that email be used only to request a call or to exchange factual information. Experiencehas shown that email exchanges containing expressions of opinion or interpretations of events can leadto misunderstandings. The reader may perceive a tone not intended by the author, or one party may

respond to incomplete or incorrect information without first clarifying the facts. In both cases, the writ-ten word may create a situation that is tense and conflicting where no friction is necessary, since bothparties have the interest of the student at heart. In almost all cases, a conversation is more productiveand does more to develop the desired parent/teacher relationship. Faculty members are expected toabide by these same guidelines and to follow up with a call whenever there is even the remote chancethat an email message will not be clear. Our parent/teacher partnership is too important to be jeopard-ized by miscommunication.

� ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES �

ATTENDANCE, LATE ARRIVALS & EARLY DISMISSALSAll students are expected to be present at 8:00 AM and to remain on campus through their last obligation each day. Attendance at all scheduled classes, activities, meetings, study halls, and athleticcommitments is required.

When students are in school for only part of a day because of illness or important off-campus appoint-ments, we expect the following:

l Students arriving late or leaving early must present a note of explanation, signed by a parent orguardian, to the Division Office (Middle or Upper School) as soon as they get to school that day.In emergency situations, parents may call the Office and provide a note the next day.

l Students must check in with the office staff whenever they are leaving or returning to school during the academic day.

l Students who leave school before a test or other scheduled assessment is administered must seethe teacher before leaving, unless excused by the school nurse.

l Students who miss a test or other scheduled assessment because they arrive later the same day,must see the teacher that day to take the assesment or to schedule a make-up time at theteacher’s convenience, before the student can participate in extra-curricular activities that day.

AbsencesStudents should be present at school except for reasons of illness, urgent appointments, religious hol-idays, family bereavement, or emergencies. Parents should call the school by 9:00 AM to report theirchild’s absence to the Division Office. For Middle School students, call 781.380.0513. For Upper Schoolstudents, call 781.843.3580. Teachers will not be expected to offer make-up work to those who missschool for reasons other than those mentioned above.

When an absence results from a suspension, students are responsible for all work missed. Students arealso responsible for submitting all written work, including homework, by the due date. All tests are tobe made up within one week of the student’s return.

TardinessAll students are expected to be with their advisors by 8:00 AM. If students arrive between 8:00 and8:05, they should report directly to their advisor, who will mark them tardy. Students arriving after 8:05AM must report to the Division Office and get a pass to enter the classroom. In the Middle School, parentswill receive notification by mail once a student has accumulated three unexcused tardies, and studentswill be assigned non-demerit detentions for the fifth tardy in a term and each subsequent tardy. In theUpper School, parents will receive notification (usually by e-mail) once a student has accumulated fourtardies, and detentions begin on the sixth tardy.

Absence or Tardiness & Participation in Extra-Curricular ActivitiesStudents who are absent from school may not participate in extra-curricular activities. In order to par-ticipate in any extra-curricular activity, a student must be in class by 8:15 AM and must attend classesfor the entire day. Any exceptions to this rule must be approved by the appropriate Division Director(Mr. Thompson or Mr. Smith). This includes situations in which a student becomes ill during the day,misses one or more classes, and wishes to attend an extra-curricular activity. 19

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Absence & Missed WorkStudents are responsible for missed work, unless the obligation is waived by the teacher who assignedthe work. It is the student’s obligation to approach the teacher and seek help or schedule make-updates in a timely fashion. Students who have planned absences of more than two days must see theirteachers a week in advance to make arrangements to complete missed work before or immediatelyafter the absence. No additional time is allowed for work missed because of suspensions from schoolunless approved by the appropriate Division Director.

Passes

If students are detained officially or unofficially, they need to obtain a pass or a signature from theteacher or administrator involved. Passes are also issued to give students permission to leave assignedareas such as study hall, or to go to the library or computer lab, or to an advisee conference. Studentsmust obtain a pass in advance so it can be presented to the teacher or study hall proctor at the begin-ning of the designated period. Students are then excused from that period to report directly to the lo-cation indicated on the pass. .

Attendance & Religious HolidaysThe school’s policy is to encourage students to observe their religious holidays. Faculty members avoidscheduling major exams or papers on those days and provide ample opportunity to make up work.

Early Dismissals When Students Are IllThayer Academy has two registered nurses on staff during the day to whom students should go whenthey are ill. Parents will be called if a nurse determines the student should go home. Students shouldnot contact parents directly to request a dismissal from school. The nurses will also notify the appro-priate Division Office (Middle or Upper School) if a parent is called to pick up a student. All studentswho are ill must follow this procedure.

� TRANSPORTATION �

SCHOOL BUSESRound trip bus service is available on five bus routes from specific, centrally located points in Boston,Canton, Cohasset, Dedham, Duxbury, Hanover, Hingham, Milton, Norwood, Pembroke, Scituate, andStoughton. The Bus Schedule is posted at www.thayer.org/transportation.

For many Upper School students, one-way transportation in the morning is the better option. The busesdepart at 4:00 PM daily, which is while the Upper School students are involved in athletics and otherafter-school activities.

Middle School students involved in middle school-level athletics and activities are finished by 3:45 PM

and are therefore able to make the 4 PM bus. If you have any questions, please call or email the Business

Office (781-380-0503 or lsmith@thayer.org) The bus route list and registration for riding the bus are onthe Thayer website under the Business Office tab.

Thayer buses are driven by capable, qualified drivers. To ensure safe transportation, student passengersmust abide by the following rules:l All passengers must be seated at all times, with only two students per seat.l Heads and hands must remain inside the bus.l Throwing things inside the bus or out of the windows is strictly prohibited.l Roughhousing, yelling, or any other dangerous or disruptive behavior is not allowed.

Bus drivers have full authority to enforce these policies and will report the names of uncooperative stu-dents to the Division Directors for appropriate action. This may include detention and suspension fromriding the bus.

Students who have not signed up for regular bus transportation may need to ride the bus on occasion.If seats are available, students may purchase a bus pass either in the Business Office or the MiddleSchool Office. Individual one-way bus passes are available for $9 each or $75 for a pack of 10. A studentwho rides without using a bus pass will receive a $20 charge on his or her account.

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MBTA PASSESThe MBTA bus from Quincy stops in front of Thayer en route to and from the Holbrook/Brockton town line.The Braintree stop for the MBTA Red Line is just down the hill from campus. MBTA Charlie Cards may be or-dered through the Business Office for students riding the train and/or bus to and from school. There is not cur-rently a student card available to the school for use on the commuter rail. A registration form for the CharlieCard is on the Thayer website under the Business Office tab.

CARS ON CAMPUSStudents who wish to drive to school must apply for a parking sticker to be signed by both student and parent.Parking stickers are issued during the first week of school.l Students may park only in designated student parking areas.l Cars not displaying a current Thayer parking sticker or parked in violation of the rules are subject to towing.

l Parking regulations are in effect at all times.l Students must not stop or park in visitor spaces at any time, for any reason.l Violation of parking rules will result in a work detail or detention. Continued violation of parking rules and/or failure to complete an assigned work detail may result in the loss of on-campus parking privileges.

l Students must not visit their cars during the school day without permission from the Upper School Director or their Class Dean.

Athletic competition in the ISL is guided by the ideals stated here. The ISL is proud of the behavior and sports-manship displayed by its players, coaches, and fans. We value spirited and fair play as well as enthusiastic andpositive support for our players and teams. In order to ensure that our expected level of behavior and decorumcontinues each season and each game, we ask that all members of our ISL community strive to make continuallyrenewed efforts to abide by the ideals of our league.

Independent School League (ISL) Sportsmanship Creed

Coaches and PlayersPlayers shall at all times represent themselvesand their school with honor, proper conduct, andgood sportsmanship. They shall understand thatcompetitive rivalries are encouraged but that dis-respect for opponents is unsportsmanlike andlessens the value of the rivalries. They shall con-fine the competitiveness of the game to the field,and in particular, behave properly on the sidelinesand in the locker rooms both before and aftergames.

Players shall comply fully with the rulings of theofficials. In no way, either by voice, action, or ges-ture, shall they demonstrate their dissatisfactionwith the decisions made. Players must never forget that they represent their school.

SpectatorsISL schools will not tolerate, at their athletic con-tests, any spectator, either student or adult,whose behavior is disrespectful toward players,officials, coaches, or other spectators. Nor will ISLschools permit any type of spectator behaviorthat either detracts from the proper conduct ofthe game or disadvantages a player or team. Onthe right are some examples of unacceptable behavior during competition under guidelines ofthe ISL Heads’ and Athletic Directors’ Committee:

1. Use of profanity or displays of anger that drawattention away from the game

2. Booing or heckling officials’ decisions, criticiz-ing officials in any way, or displaying temperwith an official’s call

3. Trash talk or yells that antagonize opponents

4. Verbal abuse or intimidation tactics

5. Disrespectful or derogatory yells, chants,songs, gestures, signs, posters, or banners

6. Any distracting activity such as yelling, wavingarms, or foot-stomping during an opponent’sfree-throw attempts

7. Use of artificial noisemakers of any kind (Legitimate pep-bands, however, are encour-aged.)

These guidelines apply equally to players,coaches, and fans. The ISL asks officials to applythese guidelines strictly, especially with regard toplayers and coaches.

Thayer students participating on a team outsideThayer Academy are also expected to maintainand uphold the same ISL standards of conduct.Any violation of this policy could result in dismissal from the team.

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� INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS �

OVERVIEWThayer is a charter member of the Independent School League (ISL). The sixteen member schools ofthe ISL are Belmont Hill School, Brooks School, Buckingham Browne & Nichols School, The Governor’sAcademy, Groton School, Lawrence Academy, Middlesex School, Milton Academy, Noble and GreenoughSchool, The Rivers School, The Roxbury Latin School, St. George’s School, St. Mark’s School, St. Paul’sSchool, St. Sebastian’s School, and Thayer Academy. A number of non-league teams are also scheduledin most sports. Furthermore, Thayer is a member of the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC), which sponsors many post-season tournaments.The Athletic Department offers many levels of competition. All students are encouraged to participatein the program, which emphasizes skill building, sportsmanship, and teamwork.

RULES AND GUIDELINESThe following rules and guidelines apply to all participants in any Athletic Department activity:l If necessary, students may meet with teachers regarding an academic matter during practice.l Team members are required to dress in accordance with Athletic Department policy.l Team members must travel to and from games on school-designated transportation.

Any exception must be requested by the parent and approved by the coach. A written noteshould be provided.

l Our knowledge of an athlete’s use of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs, even when not under school jurisdiction, will carry consequences for athletes. Athletes are expected to maintain proper condi-tioning standards. In such cases, the Athletic Director will suspend the athlete in question for twogames or two weeks, whichever time period is greater. A second offense in the same season willresult in withdrawal from the team. The matter will be brought to the attention of the appropriateDivision Director and the Headmaster, and further disciplinary action may be taken as well.

l Team selection, training rules, team discipline and playing time are the responsibility of the individual coaches. Students and parents must respect the coach’s decisions. If there are concerns pertaining to these matters, it is strongly recommended that the student-athlete speak with the coach first. (See also the section below on Playing Time Concerns.)

l A parent may not approach a coach on the playing field about a coaching decision at any pointbefore, during, or immediately following a game.

l The Head Coach is the key contact person when it comes to parental concerns regarding trans-portation times, game and practice times, snacks, and other day-to day logistics (A list of headcoaches and their contact information will be listed at the end of this section and will also be included in the summer mailing). The website is also a great tool when looking for up-to-datechanges to game schedules.

l Team members must remain on campus between the end of school and the beginning of practices or games.

l All uniforms and equipment must be turned in to the Equipment Manager no later than two weeksafter each season or a fee will be charged for lost items.

l If an athlete is missing a uniform on a game day, the coach’s will decide whether another uniformis

issued on that particular game day. l Each year, approximately one week before the last spring athletic contest, items from the Cage

may no longer be invoiced and must be purchased on a cash-only basis.l In order to practice or play in a game, students must report to school by 8:15 AM on and remain in

classes for the balance of the school day. The Upper or Middle School Director must approve anyexception to this rule.

l Students dismissed early may return to practice or play in a game if they bring a note from a parent and have approval of the Upper or Middle School Director. Students who disregard thisrule will be suspended for the next game. A second occurrence will be cause for removal from the team.

l Students attending classes are expected to attend practice even when injured unless they have received permission from the Athletic Trainer to be absent.

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l Visiting teams are our guests, and any discourteous conduct at games brings discredit to all the students and to the good name of the school. Students found in violation will be subject to disciplinary action.

l All athletes trying out for a Middle or Upper School team at the A, B, junior varsity, or varsity level are allowed at least two days to try out for a particular team before cuts are made.

Note: If students cannot attend the initial tryout period because of theater obligations, medical rea-sons, or attendance at Camp Bournedale, they will be allowed to begin tryouts as soon as their otherobligations have been met.

VARSITY TEAMSPlaying at the varsity level is a privilege and is the highest level of athletic achievement here at Thayer.At this level, playing time is based on the discretion of each team’s coaching staff, and is determinedon the basis of performance in practices and games, attendance, effort, attitude, and the competitionlevel vs. opponents. Any playing time or role-based conversations should take place between the stu-dent-athlete and the coach. (See also the section below on Playing Time Concerns.)

Sub-Varsity Teams (junior varsity, thirds, and all Middle School programs)Wins and losses are secondary to the development of each individual athlete and team. While compet-itiveness and winning are important incentives for each team, it is important to promote personalgrowth, character, and leadership while having fun and developing the skills necessary to improve as astudent-athlete. While there may be scenarios due to team size, the nature of the sport, safety concerns,effort, attitude, and attendance that could affect playing time per game, it is a sub-varsity coach’s goalto incorporate playing time as one of their priorities.

Playing Time ConcernsAny and all playing time concerns should be addressed between the student-athlete and coach in an effort to promote responsibility, communication, and a greater sense of independence for each student-athlete.

Athletic TrainersCertified athletic trainers are provided for all after-school athletic practices and games. They are re-sponsible for managing sports injuries, providing first aid, and coordinating emergency medical serviceswhen needed. Athletic trainers will also provide pre-practice or pre-game treatments or preparationsas needed to minimize injury and strengthen the capacity of an athlete to participate. Athletes cannotreturn to play without approval from an athletic trainer.

SPORTS & TEAMSBoys: Baseball, Basketball, Crew, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Skiing, Soccer,

Swimming, Tennis, Track, WrestlingGirls: Basketball, Crew, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Golf, Gymnastics, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Skiing, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track

Contact Information for Head CoachesFor questions about any of the teams, please contact the appropriate head varsity coach listed underAthletics at www.thayer.org/athleticsDirectory. If contact information is not listed, please call781.664.2289, and someone in the Athletic Office will supply you with updated contact information.

PARKING AT THAYER ATHLETIC SITESSouth Athletic CampusParking for athletic events at the South Athletic Campus is restricted to the lower lot. There is no parkingavailable in the upper lot for Thayer athletic events.

See www.thayer.org/athleticsDirections for directions to the South Athletic Campus.

Tennis CourtsParking is restricted to the Hobart parking lot on Thayer’s main campus. There is no on-site parking for

the tennis courts.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

� MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES �

GENERAL INFORMATIONAfter-School Study HallThe after-school study hall is held from 2:30 to 3:45 PM every day. After-school study provides an opportunity for students with a medical excuse from sports, students participating on Upper Schoolteams, or students taking health and wellness classes to get a head start on homework.

In after-school study, students either do homework or pleasure reading and should arrive with allbooks and materials needed. Students may not leave the study hall without permission from the proc-tor.

Students who sign out to another location must stay there until 3:45 PM or return to study hall. If students have a library or computer assignment, they should get a signature from the teacher givingthe assignment, then show the signature to the study hall proctor before going to the library or computer lab.

If the assignment is completed before 3:45 PM, students must return to study hall until dismissal.These resources are open for student use only when a proctor is available. When Middle School teamshave home games, students in after-school study hall may sign out of study hall at game time tocheer on their classmates. If the game concludes prior to 3:45, students must return to after-schoolstudy hall.

Arrival Students should not arrive before 7:00 AM, as there is no supervision before this time. Students arriving before 7:30 AM should wait in the forum and not go to their locker until 7:30. Students willgather in Thompson Hall every morning prior to 7:55 AM. Students arriving after 8:00 AM must reportto the office with a note or will be marked with an unexcused tardy.

BookstoreSchool supplies may be purchased at the Campus Store in Sawyer Gymnasium. Books can be orderedonly online or by phone at the school’s website. The hours are daily during lunch and from 2:00 PM -5:00 PM. Questions about the bookstore may be addressed to AnnMarie Leonard.

Computer UseOnce a student has signed and submitted an Appropriate Use Policy (AUP), described in the “SchoolWide Policies” section, students may use the computers in the two resource labs in the Middle Schooland classrooms. During any study hall written permission is required from the teacher giving the as-signment in order to use a computer.

DismissalAfter athletics, health and wellness class, or study hall, students taking the MBTA may walk directlyto the station by way of Union Street. After 2:30 PM, all students who are not participating in sportsand are waiting for rides or buses must go to after-school study until dismissal at 3:45 PM. Studentathletes missing a game or practice must submit a note to the Main Office. All students should bepicked up at the Middle School, take a Thayer bus, or walk to the “T” unless another arrangementhas been made in writing with the Middle School office.

Parents picking up students before 2:15 PM must report to the Middle School office to sign them out.Students will not be allowed to wait outside once study hall is underway.

The Middle School does not provide supervision after 4:45 PM. Please be respectful of this time.

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Lockers

Lockers are provided for every student in the Middle School (dimensions 15” w x 13” d). Adjustablelocker shelves are recommended. Students may go to their lockers at the following times: beforemorning meeting; before and after lunch; during recess, afternoon break, conference periods, activityperiods, sports, and/or with teacher permission. Students are expected to keep their lockers orderlyand to make sure they are locked when they leave them to protect their personal belongings. Stu-dents should not leave valuables in their lockers. Students may not enter another student’s lockerwithout specific permission.All sports equipment should be stored in the sports closet until it is time for afternoon athletics. Thestate fire code prohibits leaving books and book bags in the halls. Items left in the hallways will betaken to the office or placed in the Lost and Found.

Wheeled book bags are strongly recommended for all students.

Lost & FoundIf a student has lost or misplaced a book, a coat, or another item, he or she should check the lost-and-found box in the sports storage room. Items not claimed by the end of each term will be discarded or donated to Goodwill.

Students may not use each other’s materials without permission from the owner.

LunchAll students go to Cahall Dining Hall at lunchtime unless given permission by a faculty member to dootherwise. We ask that students do not bring special treats to share with friends at this time. Studentsmay ask their advisor for an appropriate time. After eating, students should remain seated until dis-missed, and then clear their trays on their way to the Middle School. During lunch, school supplieswill be sold at the bookstore located at the Campus Store.

Unless students have an appointment with a teacher, they should not enter the gym or Upper Schoolbuildings at this time, as classes will be in session.

RecessMorning recess is designed to provide a few minutes to exchange books, have a snack, socialize, andgo to the lavatory. Seventh and eighth grade students may socialize in the courtyard or the Forum.Sixth-graders are supervised on the playground or outside Thompson Hall. Snack food is not allowedoutside these areas.

Study PeriodsMiddle School students have a limited number of study periods during the school day. Three activitiesare permitted during study periods: studying, doing homework, or reading for pleasure. Students areexpected to plan ahead and bring all the materials they will need to study hall. If a student has an as-signment requiring library materials or computer use, he or she must obtain a signature from theteacher giving the assignment before going to the study hall.

Telephone UseStudent use of classroom telephones in the Middle School is limited to essential matters. Studentsmay make calls only during breaks or lunch and must have a teacher’s permission. Cell phones mustbe locked in a student’s locker until 2:15 PM. We also ask that parents not request to have non-schoolrelated messages delivered to children, as there is no convenient method for providing this service.

Valuables & Non-EssentialsNonessential items, large amounts of money, and items of value such as expensive jewelry andwatches should be left at home. Electronic games, video or music players, and cell phones shouldnot be brought to school unless absolutely necessary. Items used in the school’s program, like musicalinstruments and cameras, should be left in the Middle School office until needed and returned thereafter use. Students should remember to take these items home at the end of the day.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

THE ADVISOR SYSTEM / A HOME-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPAdvising and SupportThe advisor system is vital to the Middle School program. Advisors devote conference periods once a month to topics ranging from making friends to academic honesty, and they may also use confer-ence periods to meet individually with advisees.

The advisor should be the first person a parent calls with questions or concerns, unless the issue pertains to only one specific class or activity. In some cases, contacting a teacher or coach directlymight be more efficient. Parents can call the school and leave a voice mail message requesting a re-turn call as soon as possible, or they can send an email message by using the initial of the teacher’sfirst name and his or her last name@thayer.org. For example, csmith@thayer.org is the email addressfor Middle School Director Carson Smith.

MS. WIERDSMA is the Middle School Counselor and Dean of Girls. She assists advisors and is also avail-able for individual students. The counselor might recommend outside professional help for a studentif an issue warrants it. This decision is made in conjunction with the student’s parents. She also workswith faculty, parents and students in regards to the academic well being of the girls in the MiddleSchool. (ewierdsma@thayer.org)

MS. KEENAN is the Academic Support Coordinator. Her role is to work with faculty, parents, and stu-dents in facilitating academic achievement and creating the most effective learning environment. Inaddition to teaching the students skills courses, she works in conjunction with Mrs. Archabal, Directorof the Hale Learning Center, to implement support plans for students in need. (ekeenan@thayer.org)

MR. GIBSON is the Dean of Students and Dean of Boys. He facilitates all disciplinary action and workswith students to help them maintain their A’s in conduct. In addition, Mr. Gibson oversees the aca-demic well being of the boys in the Middle School. (agibson@thayer.org)

MR. REID is the Middle School Athletic Director. Parents with questions about sports should contactMr. Reid (jreid@thayer.org).

Conference PeriodsConference periods occur during the last period three days a week and take place in advisor meetingrooms with the advisor. They are a time for students to meet with teachers or get started on home-work. Students are expected to take the initiative in seeking help from teachers. If a student has ques-tions about a specific assignment or wishes addition assistance, the student should request anappointment to meet with the appropriate teacher. Students should obtain a signature from the sub-ject teacher before conference period begins and show it to their advisor. The library, computer labs,and art room are usually available during conference periods as well. Teachers will often initiate meet-ings, but our goal is to help students take responsibility for their own learning.

Parent ConferencesThe growth of each student depends on the success of the home-school partnership. Communicationis clearly a vital key to this teamwork. The Middle School sets aside time for parent conferences oncein the fall and once in the winter. Conference times are assigned and sent home to parents well in advance of the date. Parents have a chance to touch base with their child’s teachers or advisor andto discuss the student’s progress and concerns. (Please check the school calendar for more details.)

There will be other times when a parent, the advisor, or a teacher will request a conference. A parentmay request a conference by calling the school. Conferences with a number of teachers are usuallyscheduled before school to avoid conflicts with coaching and after-school obligations.

Parent Awareness Forms (PAs)Parent Awareness Forms are used at each teacher’s discretion to notify parents of a student’s exceptional (high or low) achievement, effort, attitude, or behavior. Such notices are given to the student to take home. The form must be signed by the parent acknowledging receipt and returnedto the teacher the following day.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

THE MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMIC PROGRAMOverview The Middle School’s goal is to provide a rigorous academic program within a supportive and nurturingenvironment. The focus of the Middle School curriculum is in two areas: learning and use of studyskills, and the mastery and application of basic facts and concepts. Please refer towww.thayer.org/MiddleSchoolPrograms for more information on specific courses. For all academicclasses (those meeting four or more times a week), grade reports for effort and achievement are is-sued at the end of each trimester, and they include narrative comments from the teachers. For allother courses, reports include grades for effort and comments from the teachers.Effort and Achieve-ment Honor Rolls are determined at the end of each trimester.

HomeworkAll Middle School students are issued planners, and are expected to use them to record all assign-ments. These notebooks can be checked by parents and will help keep them informed. Homework isregarded as a valuable part of the educational experience at Thayer. Homework may be given as re-view, practice, a challenge, or an introduction to new learning. We expect students to be thoroughand thoughtful, and to complete all assignments on time. The use of computers for word processingand research is encouraged.

Middle School students can expect two to two-and-a-half hours of homework – approximately a halfhour per academic subject per night. When a student is absent for one to two days, it is the respon-sibility of the student to contact a classmate or teacher directly to gather missed material and assignments. In addition, a student should make every effort upon their return to class to meet indi-vidually with the teacher to review material missed. If a student is absent for longer than a two-dayperiod, the parent or student may contact the advisor or someone in the front office for assistancein collecting missed assignments. Calls to the office and/or an advisor should be made prior to 11 AM

in order to provide sufficient time to collect materials. If a student is out for an extended period oftime (for example, one week), the student may be asked to use after-school time to meet with teach-ers and make up missed requirements.

Middle School faculty members strongly recommend the following guidelines:l Each student should have a well-illuminated desk area and/or computer area.l Two hours minimum should be set aside each afternoon/evening for homework.l Social phone calls and the use of email and instant messaging should be banned during these two hours.

l Students should collaborate on work only when encouraged by their teachers to get help fromclassmates or parents. In such cases, the emphasis must be on the process of how to do the problem, not on what the answer is. The Middle School faculty discourages phone work; too often, one student does the work and the other just records the answers.

l If all assignments are completed, remaining time should be spent on reading or review.l Television should be restricted during weeknights, and study areas should be free of radios and stereos.

l Because of the heavy academic and athletic demands of the Middle School program, the facultystrongly recommends that no parties or social events be scheduled Sunday through Thursday,and that students limit their outside commitments.

Guided StudyGuided Study is a supervised study beginning at 2:20 PM every day in the Middle School Library. It isdesigned to help students achieve academic success by holding them immediately accountable forlate, incomplete, or unsatisfactory work. Students attend the study on the day that their work is poorlyprepared unless a game or early dismissal is already scheduled. As soon as the work is completed,students report to their athletic practices or other after-school commitments.

Attending Guided Study does not impact a student’s conduct grade, and parents are notified regu-larly that a student is sent to Guided Study. The Dean of Girls or the Dean of Boys will be in contactwith the parents to discuss the student’s difficulty in completing homework if a student is repeatedlyassigned to Guided Study.

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The Hale Learning Center

The Hale Learning Center at Thayer Middle School serves students who, with a variety of differentlearning challenges, may have trouble finding success in our program. Students in need of addedsupport may be referred to the Hale Center by their advisors, teachers, or parents. Once a referralhas been made, teachers, with the guidance of the Academic Support Coordinator, meet as a teamto discuss student-specific classroom strategies. When appropriate, extra support may be providedby The Hale Center’s professionally trained staff in areas including study skills, organization, writtenexpression, and reading comprehension. This extra help is provided largely during conference period,through 1:1 or small group instruction.

If a student should require educational testing, The Academic Support Coordinator is able to recom-mend local evaluators. Once testing has been completed, The Academic Support Coordinator willwrite a faculty accessible summary of the results. When warranted, the Hale Center staff will developa Learning Plan with Thayer-specific recommendations and communicate the plan to the student,their teachers, and their parents.

For more information about the Hale Learning Center, please contact:ELIZABETH KEENAN – Middle School Academic Support Coordinator 781.664.2322 ekeenan@thayer.org

ERICA ARCHABAL – Hale Learning Center Director781.664.2202 • earchabal@thayer.org

Placement • Accelerated Math & EnglishStudents entering the Middle School will be placed in Accelerated English based on their ISEE scores,transcripts, writing samples, and the faculty recommendations submitted for admission. Placementin Accelerated Math will be determined by a test taken the first week of school and ISEE scores.

Students enrolled in accelerated classes must maintain an average of B or better to remain in thosesections, and students who are hoping to move up in math or English must earn As and high effortgrades to be considered for top placement next year. All decisions are based on faculty recommen-dations and are made in June, after year-end grades are submitted. Please direct questions to yourchild’s advisor or the appropriate teacher.

Placements for students rising to the Upper School will be made at the conclusion of their eighth-grade year, after final exams and grades are determined. The Middle School faculty will make recom-mendations to the Upper School department heads at the close of the academic year. Then a mailingwill be sent home informing families of the recommended placement. Again, the requirements notedabove are followed and expected in all cases.

Effort GradesWe place a premium on effort. Students earn effort grades in all courses that meet three or moretimes a week. Questions regarding expectations should be directed to the specific teacher of a givencourse.

Effort grades are based on what a teacher observes in class and can infer from the quality of a stu-dent’s homework. Each student starts with an assumed 2 in effort and earns his or her way up ordown according to the descriptions listed below. There is no automatic correlation between effortand achievement grades, since it is possible to earn combinations such as a C and a 3.

3 = The student’s superior effort and attitude consistently exceed the teacher’s expectations in all areas.

2 = The student participates in class activities and discussions, followsdirections well, and completes assignments consistently and on time.

1 = The student does not consistently work to meet the teacher’s xpectations in one or more of the following areas: class work,assignments, and class participation.

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Effort Honor Roll

The criteria for achieving Effort Honor Roll are as follows:l Effort Honor Roll can be attained by earning three 3s with no grade below a 2. Courses that meet only once a week are not included in honor roll calculations.

l High Effort Honor Roll can be attained by earning no grade below a 3 in any course.l Certificates are awarded to students who achieve Effort Honor Roll or High Effort Honor Roll each trimester.

Achievement GradesThe criteria used to determine achievement grades are:l Comprehension: learning and understanding the material being studiedl Retention: being able to recall information that has been studiedl Reasoning: being able to use information and to see relationshipsl Technique: organizing and presenting information in a useful or logical orderl Communication: using both spoken and written language correctly and accurately

The interpretation of grades is as follows:A = Superior achievement (90-100%)B = Above average achievement (80-89%)C = Average or satisfactory achievement (70-79%)D = Below average achievement (60-69%)F = Failing (below 60%)P = Passing achievement grade

Achievement Honor RollStudents who attain this honor roll meet the following criteria:l As and Bs are honor marks and are reserved for work of honor caliber. l Achievement Honor Roll can be attained by earning a grade of B- or better in each graded course.

l High Achievement Honor Roll can be attained by earning a grade of B+ or better in each graded course.

l Certificates are awarded to students who earn Achievement Honor Roll or High Achievement Honor Roll each trimester.

Academic WarningAt the end of each term, a warning letter will be sent to any student whose record shows one ormore of the following:l Two grades in the D rangel One grade of Fl Three 1s (ones) in effort grades

Students on academic warning are provided with short-term feedback through use of the AcademicWeekly Progress Reports that update the effort and academic progress of the student for a givenweek.

Academic ProbationIf a student is placed on Warning and does not improve to an acceptable level by the end of the nextterm, the student will be placed on Academic Probation. The student may work his or her way offProbation, to the Warning status, and back to a clean slate one term at a time. Academic Probationis a clear message to the student and to the student’s family that the relationship between Thayerand the student is not working as intended.

Students on Academic Probation work closely with their advisor and the Academic Support Coordi-nator and/or the Dean of Girls or Dean of Boys. They receive short-term feedback through the Weekly

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Progress Reports (see Academic Warning, page 58). Professional tutoring will usually be required,and interscholastic sports and/or performance activities may be prohibited.

Students placed on probation will be reviewed by the Middle School faculty, and a decision will bemade as to whether the student should continue at Thayer. Final decisions are usually made at theend of the year, but in most cases, discussion will be ongoing, and a decision may be reached beforethe end of the year.

Exams

Exams are given at the end of the year. Teachers will spend time helping students organize materialsand reviewing study techniques. Exams count for 10 percent of the final grade. An extended-timeoption will be offered to students who have recent evaluations on file indicating a need for extra time.

PromotionTo be promoted to the next grade, a student must pass all courses. If a course is failed, summer work,a reexamination, or summer school will be required. When indicated, the teacher(s) involved will con-fer with a tutor concerning the material to be reviewed. The only exceptions to this policy are these:

l Eighth-graders who fail Algebra I or a foreign language course may be promoted to the ninth grade by repeating the course in the ninth grade.

l Eighth-graders must have a grade of C- or better to progress to a second-year foreign language course in the ninth grade.

At Thayer Academy, we expect students to conduct themselves so that no other student is preventedfrom learning, and the rights of students, faculty, and staff are respected and upheld at all times.

GENERAL CONDUCTMiddle School Dress PolicyStudents at the Middle School are expected to be neat, clean, and dressed appropriately for school.In general, students’ dress should be conducive to a healthy learning environment for themselvesand others. Students’ dress should not interfere with academic, extra-curricular, or other school com-mitments, and while we certainly wish to make allowances for personal taste, certain clothing is notacceptable at Thayer. Students are expected to remain in dress code for the entire day.

Monday Dress for Middle School BoysBoys should wear a collared shirt with a tie and khakis or dress pants. Shoes are required, althoughboys may wear boots during the second (winter) trimester. Boys should not wear sneakers on Mon-days. Sweaters and blazers or sport coats are also acceptable on Mondays.

Monday Dress for Middle School GirlsGirls should wear a dress or skirt and top. The length of the skirt or dress should be as close to theknee as possible. Dress pants and a blouse are also acceptable on Mondays, but casual pants and/orleggings should not be worn on Mondays. During the second (winter) trimester, snow boots andsweaters are permitted. During the first and third trimesters, sandals may be worn, although flip-flopsand sneakers are not permitted.

Daily School Dress for Middle School BoysBoys should wear a collared short- or long-sleeved shirt and khaki or other similar pants. Bermudastyle/length shorts and/or sandals may be worn until Thanksgiving recess and after spring recess.Shoes or sneakers are acceptable at any time. Fleece jackets, vests, Thayer Academy sweatshirts,and solid colored or consistent patterned sweatshirts may be worn in the classroom.

Daily School Dress for Middle School GirlsGirls should wear shirts with sleeves and pants or skirts; dresses are also acceptable. All skirts ordresses should be as close to the knee as possible. Bermuda style/length shorts and/or sandals maybe worn until Thanksgiving recess and after spring recess. Any questions about the dress code orappropriate clothing should be referred to Mr. Gibson, Dean of Boys, or Ms. Wierdsma, Dean of Girls.

For your reference, please keep in mind the following Middle School Dress Code guidelines:1. Soiled, tattered, revealing, or torn, cut-off clothing is inappropriate for school. 2. Tee-shirts (long- or short-sleeved shirts with banded crew or V-neck collars), sweatshirts, and

clothing with prominently displayed lettering are not allowed. 3. All shirts must have a full back and must cover the waistband of a student’s skirt, pants, or

shorts; all shirts with tails must be tucked in. Shirts are expected to cover the shoulder. Tanktops and spaghetti straps are not acceptable.

4. Athletic, any type of denim, camouflage, or military clothing may not be worn to school. 5. Hats or hoods may not be worn in any school building. 6. Velour sweat-suit pants are not to be worn. 7. Legging-style pants may only be worn under knee-length skirts or shorts.

BehaviorGood manners are a means of showing respect for others and are expected at all times. The use of“please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me,” holding a door, and other basic courtesies are part of ourway of life at Thayer.

In addition to the Community Values & Expectations articulated in the School-Wide Policies sectionof this Handbook, students are expected to conduct themselves as follows:

l Unexcused lateness or absence from an academic or any other obligation l Neglect or damage to property-one’s own, the school’s, or another person’s Impolite or inappropriate words or actions

l Bullying or cyber-bullying l Unauthorized departure from campus l Running or roughhousing in inappropriate locationsl Throwing snowballs on campus l Poor sportsmanship l Inappropriate use of cell-phones

The consequence for inappropriate behavior is a Recess Detention or an After-School Detention, depending on the severity of the offense.

Major offenses may be brought before the Discipline Committee and will be considered possiblecauses for suspension or dismissal whether committed on the way to or from school, during schoolhours, or at school-sponsored functions.

In all disciplinary matters, Thayer Academy reserves the right, at its own discretion and in its bestjudgment, to vary from these procedures or to impose such penalties as it deems appropriate. Onlyin matters related to dismissal or expulsion may decisions be appealed to the Headmaster.

Examples of major offenses include the following:l Dishonesty by word or act, including academic dishonesty l Verbal or physical harassment of any kind l Vandalism of another student’s or the school’s property l Stealing or unauthorized removal of another’s possessions or intrusion into another’s locker, book bag, or desk

l Gambling or any inappropriate exchange of money l Use, possession, or transfer of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products l Possession or use of weapons or fireworks of any kind l Misuse of Internet resources l Repeated behavior that undermines the effectiveness of the school community. Such behavior would include disruptiveness, or the inability or unwillingness to follow instructions and guidelines.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Food in School

Beverages, candy, and other edible items (with the exception of water) are not permitted in the class-rooms, hallways, auditorium, or libraries unless they are part of a class event approved by the super-vising teacher. Snacks may be eaten only in recess areas.

Chewing gum is not allowed anywhere at school, and gum should not be brought to school.

Vending machines are available before and after school:7:30 - 7:55 AM 2:15 - 2:30 PM 3:45 - 4:45 PM

Conduct Marks & the Detention SystemConduct marks are issued three times a year, at the end of each term, and are determined by thenumber of demerits received during each term. Keep your A in conduct! Think before you act, andkeep your record free of demerits. Conduct marks are determined as follows:

One of the highest honors a student can receive is to be awarded a Meritorious Citizenship Certificatefor earning an A in conduct every term.

One demerit accompanies each recess detention. Students receive a recess detention slip explainingthe cause of the infraction. Detention slips must be signed by parents and returned to Mr. Gibson thefollowing morning. If a student neglects to attend an assigned recess detention or fails to return asigned slip, he or she may receive an additional detention and demerit.

After-school detentions are given for violations of a more serious nature and result in two demerits.After-school detentions are usually served the Monday or Friday following the infraction, from 2:20to 3:45 PM. An After-School Notice, sent home with the student before the detention date, cites thereason for the detention. This notice must be signed and returned to Mr. Gibson the following day.(Academic after-school detentions do not result in demerits.) Major violations or a series of after-school detentions may result in a suspension and four demerits. After-school detentions take prece-dence over all other activities and athletic events.

A = 0 demerits A- = 1 demerit B = 2 demerits B- = 3 demerits

C = 4 demerits D = 6 demerits D- = 7 demerits F = 8 or more demerits

Disciplinary ProbationStarting with the fifth demerit in one term, a student is placed on disciplinary probation. Students ondisciplinary probation immediately lose some privileges, such as attending school social events andparticipating in interscholastic sports or the performing arts. Loss of privileges remains intact foreight (8) weeks. Students must earn a B- or better in conduct in the subsequent term to move offdisciplinary status. Probation is a clear signal that the Middle School faculty has serious doubts aboutthe ability of the student to operate within our community. Failure to stay off disciplinary probationin subsequent terms may result in a student not being invited back to Thayer; individual cases maybe brought to the Discipline Committee.

Discipline CommitteeThe Discipline Committee consists of two teachers, Dean of Students, and it is convened at the MiddleSchool Director’s discretion. The Discipline Committee serves as a consulting board to the Directoron serious cases. If a student exhibits continually poor behavior or is involved in a single serious act,the case is heard by the Committee. The student’s advisor may accompany him or her as an advocate,providing information but not voting on the recommended action if a hearing is necessary. Wheneverpossible, parents will be informed of the circumstances before a committee hearing. In all cases, thebest interests of both the student and Thayer Academy will be the major considerations of this com-mittee.

Thayer Academy reserves the right, at its own discretion and in its best judgment, to depart fromthese procedures or to impose such penalties as it deems appropriate.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS • MIDDLE SCHOOLAthletic ProgramsAthletics at the Middle School function as an integral part of the school curriculum. Student athleteslearn about leadership, adversity, teamwork, and self-discipline through participation and competitionon the athletic fields. We believe that involvement at all levels helps to develop students physically,socially, and emotionally. Participation in athletics carries with it responsibility and a commitment toself, coach, teammates, and the school community. Emphasis for Thayer Academy Middle School ath-letics is placed on skill development, sportsmanship, and developing character for all student athletes.Each student is required to participate on a Thayer Academy Middle School athletic team or in theHealth and Wellness program for all three seasons.

As a school, we recognize that many students participate in sports not offered by Thayer. In thesecases, we may grant permission for exemptions from Thayer’s athletic program, provided the studentmeets the Athletic Department’s criteria. Exemptions are granted on an individual basis by the MiddleSchool Athletic Director, and are usually granted for those students who participate in a sport thatThayer does not offer in any season and if such an exemption does not violate Independent SchoolLeague bylaws. Students must submit a completed exemption form and turn it in to the Middle SchoolAthletic Director. These forms are available in the Middle School office.

Health & WellnessThree periods of Health & Wellness classes per week are required of all Middle School students noton an interscholastic team. Sessions run from 2:20 to 3:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. If astudent is in school, but not able to participate in Health and Wellness classes because of illness orinjury, he or she must submit a note from a parent or a doctor to the Middle School office and mustthen attend study hall.

Proper athletic attire must be worn for Health & Wellness classes. Each student will have his or herown locker in the gym. This locker should be kept locked at all times. Problems with lockers shouldbe reported immediately to a coach or to the athletic office. Health and wellness offerings dependon student interest and faculty coverage, but usually include cooperative games in the fall, strengthtraining, dance, and yoga in the winter, tennis and track in the spring.

34

MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Inter-Scholastic TeamsIt is the Middle School philosophy to allow as many students as possible to play on teams. When cutsneed to be made, because of facility limitations, staffing, and/or safety, they are made on the basisof skill level, physical readiness, and attitude. Students on interscholastic teams practice Monday-Fri-day until 3:45 PM. Students should be with the team unless they have a note excusing them for an ap-pointment or for study.

Pick-up times for away games are posted on the athletic page of Thayer’s website. Students shouldbe picked up at the Middle School after all away games. The Athletic Department respectfully asksparents to make sure they pick up students on time. For all home and away games, students must bepicked up by a parent at the Middle School.

Occasionally, practices and games will be canceled due to inclement weather. When a game is can-celed the website will be updated immediately and students will be notified on the white board.Please do not call the Middle School office to check on the status of the game. Practices will oftenbe moved indoors or students will have a study hall.

Boys must wear a dress shirt and tie for all away games. Proper athletic attire and required equipmentmust be worn for all practices and games. Students must wear the specific/complete game uniformfor all contests. A student who does not have his/her uniform may not participate in a game.

While it is extremely rare, there are situations when an 8th-grade student may be able to play a varsitysport even when that sport is offered at the Middle School level.  In such cases, the Head Varsity Coach must initiate the request, with the approval of the parents. The Middle School Athletic Directorand the Director of Athletics must then endorse that request. The Director of Athletics will then forward the request to the Middle School Director, who, in concert with the Athletic Director, willmake the final determination.  The factors that will be considered will include but not be limited to:overall program, team dynamics, and possible concerns related to the Middle School student in ques-tion (i.e. academic standing, deportment, and any social, and emotional concerns that might pertainto playing with upper school students.

Team members and their parents should carefully review the team contract, the ISL Creed, and schoolwide policies included in the handbook for other expectations and guidelines.

INTER-SCHOLASTIC TEAMS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

Boys Girls Boys Girls

Fall Cross Country Cross Country Spring Baseball Softball

Football Field Hockey Golf* Golf*

Soccer Soccer Lacrosse Lacrosse

Tennis* Tennis*

Winter Basketball Basketball Track* Track*

Ice Hockey Ice Hockey

Skiing* Skiing*

Swimming* Swimming*

Wrestling Gymnastics*

*Teams marked with an asterisk are open to both Middle School and Upper School students. Students playing on UpperSchool teams should be picked up at the times and places designated by their coaches. These students must be instudy hall until their Upper School practice or game begins.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Eligibility for Inter-Scholastic Competition

Students are reminded that it is an honor and a privilege to represent Thayer in athletic contests, andthat the Middle School has specific conduct and attendance guidelines that must be followed.

Conduct & AthleticsIf a student receives five or more conduct demerits during a given season, he or she may be ineligiblefor athletic competition for part of the season. If a student commits a major offense, he or she maybe subject to removal from the team for that season and may lose the privilege of participating insports the following season.

Attendance & Athletics A student must be in school for the majority of the day to be eligible for participation in games. The Middle School Director and Athletic Director must approve any exception to this rule. An unex-cused absence from a practice or a game could jeopardize the status of a player on a given team. Itis expected that students attend all practices and games.

No Middle School Sports Between SeasonsAt the end of each season there are often days where there are “no Middle School sports.” Duringthese days students will attend an after school study hall until they are picked up by a parent or bus.Students will often be ready for pick-up at 2:15 PM. Specific details of study halls and dismissal timeswill be passed along to students during morning meetings leading up to the days where there are noMiddle School sports. It is recommended that students use these days to schedule appointments andextra help sessions.

ACTIVITIES • MIDDLE SCHOOL

The Middle School offers a wide variety of activities to satisfy almost every interest. These electivesmeet two or three times a week during the school day. Performance electives meet three times aweek. Students sign up for one or two activities each term, although some may run through the entireyear. Every effort is made to give students their choice of activities.

Student Ambassadors ProgramThe Middle School Student Ambassador Program is designed to provide leadership for the MiddleSchool community. Students serving on the Student Council organize social events and theme days,plan special projects and community service, and address other concerns within the Middle Schoolcommunity.

Ambassadors, after submitting an application, are elected by a panel of students and faculty in theproceeding spring trimester. The eighth-grade president holds the position of Middle School Presidentand runs weekly meetings with the assistance of the faculty advisors.

Social LifeThe Middle School sponsors several special events throughout the year. Students must be in schoolfor the entire day to attend special events. School rules apply to all school-sponsored events.

For social events held by individuals, Thayer requests that unless all students in a grade are invited,the school should not be used to distribute invitations. It is easy to hurt others unintentionally. The Middle School Parents’ Guide to Parties, available in the Middle School office, is a valuable reference.

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

� UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES �

ADVISING & COUNSELINGwell-being of the class and its members. Class deans are assisted by a team of faculty advisors ateach grade level, so there are at least a dozen faculty members paying close attention to the welfareand progress of each class.

Each advisor monitors the progress of 8-10 advisees throughout the school year. Advisors meet in-dividually and in small groups with advisees to address academic and personal issues. Students andparents should communicate frequently with advisors about concerns. The Upper School counselorassists advisors and class deans in their work with students. Students enter the counseling processby contacting the Director of Counseling themselves or at the request of faculty, administration, par-ents, family, or friends. The counseling department has established working relation- ships with areaprofessionals and, upon request, coordinates contacts for Thayer families. If you have any questions,please contact Beth Sullivan at 781.664.2281 or bsullivan@thayer.org.

ACADEMIC LIFE & EXPECTATIONSRequirements for GraduationSeventeen (17) credits are the minimum graduation requirement. Students must carry at least fivemajor courses each semester, one course from at least four of the five major academic disciplines:English, math, science, history, and foreign language. The fifth course or its equivalent must be in oneof these areas. Most students also take an elective in the arts. Students wishing to take more or fewerthan the required five major courses per semester must submit a petition in writing to the Directorof Studies.

Credit Value for Coursesl 1 credit for courses that meet 4 or more periods a week for a full year l 1/2 credit for courses that meet 4 or more periods a week for 1 semester or 2-3 periods a week

for a full year (with the exception of Computer Programming, which receives a full credit for ayear)

1. Arts - Foundations in the Arts (Grade 9)and 1/2 Credit Art, Music, or Theater2. English - 4 years3. Foreign Language - 2 years (2 different

levels, i.e. French I and French II) of thesame language in the Upper School

4. History - 3 years, including 1 year of Mod-ern European History and 1 year of U.S. His-tory5. Mathematics - 3 years, including AlgebraI, Algebra II, and Geometry6. Science - 3 years7. Senior Project - Satisfactory completion

Study HallAll freshmen must be in study hall during free periods throughout their freshman year unless they have a pass from their teacher for a conference, a meeting with a peer tutor, or librarywork. Sophomores who have earned honors or high honors for either the third term or second se-mester of their freshman year, or during their sophomore year, are not required to attend study hallduring free periods. Students may be assigned to study hall at the discretion of the Class Dean, Ac-ademic Dean, Director of Studies, or Upper School Director.

Grade Grade Point Grade Grade Point

A+ 4.35 C 2.00

A 4.00 C- 1.65

A- 3.65 D+ 1.35

B+ 3.35 D 1.00

B 3.00 D- 0.65

B- 2.65 F 0.00

C+ 2.35

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Senior Independent Study ProjectAll seniors are required to participate in a four-week community service or career-oriented project eitheron or off campus. Senior Project typically begins in the second week of May, and concludes at the endof the month. Seniors must submit proposals to the Faculty Senior Project Committee for approval. Proj-ects that may require longer than four weeks are considered on an individual basis.

Course SelectionAdvisors will provide information and counseling about courses for the next academic year each spring.Registration takes place in late March or early April. Students wishing to take more or fewer than the re-quired five major courses per semester must submit a petition in writing to the Director of Studies. Stu-dents contemplating taking six academic major classes should be advised that because the weekly anddaily schedules are designed for a five major/one or more minor load, adding a sixth major severely re-stricts study/conference time at school and adds an additional nightly homework preparation. Studentsare placed in AP (Advanced Placement) and honors-level course selections based on teacher recom-mendations with the approval of the appropriate department head.

Add/Drop PolicyThe following deadlines for adding or dropping a course will be published on the school calendar:

l Two weeks into a course is the last day to add a class. l Eight weeks into a semester (for both semester- and year-long courses) is the last day to drop. After

the eighth week, a student is committed to taking the exam and getting a semester grade. l If a student withdraws from a year-long course after the first semester grade has been recorded, the

grade for the first semester stands, and a notation of WP (withdraw, passing) or WF (withdraw, fail-ing) will appear on the transcript. The deadline for this sort of course change is one week into thesecond semester, and students must receive the permission of the Division Director and/or Director of Studies to withdraw from the course.

l If a student changes course level (Honors to regular, etc.) after the first semester grade is recorded,the grade for that semester stands, and will appear on the transcript. The new course will appear onthe transcript for the second semester.

Students wishing to add or drop a course must complete a petition, and must receive approval from the Director of Studies.

HONOR ROLLTo achieve Honor Roll standing a student must achieve a minimum current (last marking period) gradepoint average of 3.0. To achieve High Honor Roll standing a student must achieve a minimum current(last marking period) grade point average of 3.65. Marks below a C-, including an F in a pass/fail course,make a student ineligible for honors or high honors standing. The Honor Roll is calculated at the end ofeach term. To determine a student’s grade point average, we use the system shown below.

GRADE POINT AVERAGEFor all courses with Honors or AP designation, an additional .5 points is awarded.A weighted cumulative grade point average for each student is computed at the end of each semester.At the end of the junior year these grade point averages, along with each student’s combined highestSATs, are used to construct a two- dimensional grid, or scattergraph, that displays the entire class. Thesescattergraphs are sent with transcripts to the colleges upon application. For further details about thiscumulative GPA, please contact the College Counseling Department.

Academic ProbationStudents will be placed on academic probation if they have...l Failed any course at the end of a term, semester, or year l Earned two or more Ds (D- and/or D+)l Shown consistent evidence of incomplete effort and minimal progress

Academic probation serves as a warning for those students who need to improve their academic per-formance and effort. When academic probation is deemed appropriate, the Academic Dean will notifystudents and their parents in writing, and will also contact parents to answer any questions.

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors on academic probation will be assigned to study hall during someor all of their free periods for the duration of the term. All students are expected to complete all workon time. If homework, projects, papers, and the like are not completed when due, students may berequired to stay after school to finish the work.

Teachers of students on academic probation write progress reports more frequently. These reportsare mailed home to keep both parents and students aware of academic progress. Students on aca-demic probation may continue to participate in extra-curricular and athletic activities at the discretionof the Upper School Director.

Students on academic probation are reviewed at the end of each term and may be removed fromacademic probation if their performance merits such action. Students whose effort and performanceremain chronically weak or for whom faculty feel Thayer cannot provide the necessary resources forsuccessfully completing the school’s graduation requirements may be asked to withdraw or may notbe re-enrolled.

Attendance & Class Creditl If a student is absent from school for five days during a semester, a student’s case will be

reviewed by the Upper School Class Dean and the Upper School Dean of Students, as appropriate. A parent conference may be called to discuss the circumstances surrounding the absences. At that time, a plan for making up missed work and for preventing more absences will be developed. In all cases, it is the responsibility of the student to make sure that work is made up promptly.

l If, in the opinion of the Upper School Director, the absences that a student has accumulated areunacceptable, then the student may be placed on probation. Academic and disciplinary penaltiesmay be applied if a student who is on probation misses additional days for unacceptable reasons.

l If, for any reason, a student misses 20% of the classes in a particular course, then the Division Director (Mr. Thompson) may deny full credit for work done in that course. This decision will bemade at mid-year (for first-semester courses) or at the end of the year (for second semester or year-long courses).

l If a student misses a class or a day of school without legitimate excuse, that student can expectto serve twice the time missed in work hours, plus other possible academic and disciplinarymeasures. A student who skips school one day, for instance, would be expected to serve a two-day in-school suspension with other possible disciplinary and academic measures.

Late Work Students who turn in academic work late without prior arrangement with the teacher or without excuse can expect to lose points on that assignment. The grade for the assignment will be reduced10% for each school day the assignment is late.

Promotion to Next GradeA student is expected to pass all course commitments each year, regardless of the number of creditshe or she may have at the end of any given year. Underclassmen with academic difficulties such asthose described below may be required to repeat those courses in Thayer-approved summer schoolor repeat the course the following year at Thayer Academy. The Upper School Director must approvethe course of study for these cases:

l Students with an F average in a required course. l Students in sequential courses (such as those required for graduation in math and foreign lan-

guage) who do not earn at least a C- for the second semester, as well as a C- for the year whenboth semester grades are averaged together may be asked to repeat the course the followingyear, take an approved summer school course, or receive tutoring over the summer and re-take the final exam.

IncompletesA student who is unable to complete all of the required work in a course by the end of the term willbe given an Incomplete (I) for that course until the student satisfies the requirements of thecourse. The student must complete all make-up work within two weeks of the end of the term orthe students may not earn full credit or may earn a failing grade for the term. Exceptions to thetwo-week deadline must be approved by the Upper School Director.

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Conduct & ExpectationsSmall class sizes and warm relationships between students and teachers are distinguishing charac-teristics of Thayer Academy. High academic and behavioral expectations are set for all students. Inaddition to the Community Values & Expectations articulated in the “School-Wide Policies” sectionof the Handbook, students are expected to conduct themselves as follows:

l Be respectful of all members of the community. l Be considerate of the property of other students and Thayer. (Use of another student’s property

without his or her permission is a serious violation of trust and can result in disciplinary action.) l Complete assignments by their due date. l Be on time to school and classes, ready to work. l Leave bookbags in designated areas only, since they might prove to be an emergency

exit hazard. l Leave portable radios, Walkmen, iPods, DVD players, or any other personal electronic devices

at home. Use of personal electronic devices during the class day is not permitted. Electronic devices used during the class day will be confiscated.

l Cell phones must be turned off during classes, meetings, and in the library. Cell phone use during the class day is limited to the following areas: Brickyard, Cahall Commons (but not in the dining room), or outside. Inappropriate use of cell phones, cell cameras, iPods, iPhones, or similar electronic devices is considered a very serious offense.

UPPER SCHOOL DRESS POLICYStudents in the Upper School are expected to be neat, clean, and dressed appropriately for an academic environment. Clothing should allow students to participate actively in class, and shouldnot serve as a distraction to teaching or learning. Students are expected to remain in dress code forthe entire day, even if the student has a free period the final block of the day. Footwear must be wornat all times on campus. The Dean of Students is the final arbiter of appropriateness. Students, withthe help of their parents, are asked to adhere not only to the letter but also to the spirit of Thayer’sdress policy.

Monday Meeting AttireStudents must dress up each Monday. Girls should wear a dress or a nice skirt or dress pants with anappropriate top. Boys must wear a shirt, tie, and dress pants. Shorts and sweatshirts are unacceptablefor both boys and girls. Sweaters or jackets are the appropriate cold-weather options. Students areexpected to remain dressed up all day; this includes ties being tied and shirts remaining tucked in.

Daily Dress for GirlsGirls must wear an appropriate top that covers undergarments and midriffs. Tank tops may not beworn as a top layer. Girls can wear either pants, shorts, a skirt, or a dress. Shorts, skirts, and dressesmust be appropriate in length. Generally, shorts, skirts and dresses should be long enough that thebottom of the hem is no shorter than the student’s finger tips when her arms are placed naturally ather sides.

Daily Dress for Boys Boys must wear a collared shirt, with the collar visible at all times; button-down shirts must be buttoned. Boys can wear either pants or shorts throughout the school year.

For your reference, please keep in mind the following Upper School Dress Code Guidelines: 1. Hats, caps, or hoods may not be worn inside any building. 2. Blue denim clothing may not be worn to school (pants, shorts, dresses, shirts, etc.). 3. Leggings, tights, yoga pants, etc., may only be worn under a dress or skirt. 4. Athletic wear, including t-shirts, sweatpants, hooded sweatshirts, etc., may not be worn to school. 5. Clothing with inappropriate or offensive messages is not allowed. 6. Extremely short, revealing, tight, soiled, or ripped clothing may not be worn to school. 7. Undergarments should not be visible.

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Scholarly Integrity & Responsibility (See also Academic Honesty, under School-Wide Policies.)When more than one student is involved in any way in an act of dishonesty, all participating studentsare regarded as guilty of being dishonest. For every case of academic dishonesty, one or more of thefollowing consequences may result:

l A grade of zero for the work l Notification of the student’s parentsl A meeting with the Dean of Students l A hearing before the disciplinary committeel A letter detailing the incident placed l In-school counseling for the student in the student’s file

Offenses occurring during the student’s senior year will be reported to the colleges where the student applies.

HEALTH & WELLNESS CLASSESThe Health & Wellness curriculum is an integral part of the total Thayer experience. The program isdesigned to give students the informational background they need to make responsible decisionswhen it comes to living a healthy lifestyle that is active, safe and productive. The Health and WellnessDepartment provides each student with an opportunity to learn about and experience a vast arrayof health and fitness related courses. We hope that each individual will find an area of interest andwill continue to pursue that activity later on in life.

Nine terms of Health & Wellness are required for graduation; eight scheduled terms with requiredcourses, and one term where students can select from a list of electives. The chart below shows asample four-year curriculum for Health & Wellness – course offerings have different variables andelectives may from change year to year. The elective is typically taken during junior or senior yearbut could be taken at any time.

Sample Health & Wellness Curriculum for the Four Upper School Years

Freshman Introduction to Health & Wellness Fitness Concepts

Sophomore Lifetime Activities Nutrition What would you do?

Junior Decisions CPR/AED/First Aid Possible Elective

Senior Possible Elective

THE HALE LEARNING CENTERThe Hale Learning Center at Thayer’s Upper School, located in Glover serves students who, with avariety of different learning challenges, may have trouble finding success in our program. Studentsin need of added support may be referred to the Hale Center by their advisors, teachers, or parents.A Hale Center Team consisting of The Upper School Head, Academic Dean, Guidance Counselor, andHale Center Director meets weekly to review referrals, develop learning strategies, and discuss student progress. When appropriate, extra support may be provided by The Hale Center’s profes-sionally trained staff in areas including study skills, organization, written expression, and reading comprehension. This extra help is provided during student study hall periods, through 1:1 or smallgroup instruction.

If a student should require educational testing, the Hale Learning Center Director is able to recom-mend local evaluators. Once testing has been completed, The Academic Support Coordinator willwrite a faculty accessible summary of the results. When warranted, the Hale Center staff will developa Learning Plan with Thayer-specific recommendations and communicate the plan to the student,their teachers, and their parents.

For more information about the Hale Learning Center, please contact Erica Archabal, Hale Learning

Center Director, at 781.664.2202 or earchabal@thayer.org.

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UPPER SCHOOL DAILY

BELL SCHEDULE

SCHEDULESUpper School Daily Bell Schedule (See next page)

Test Day ScheduleThe following test day schedule was proposed by the Community Council to lessen the possibility ofa student having more than two tests in a single day. Teachers are expected to adhere to these testdays and to consider them when planning due dates for major papers and projects as well.

Faculty may give quizzes (less than a full period) if they are announced in advance or if the students’preparation time doesn’t exceed a normal nightly homework assignment. When circumstances ne-cessitate a deviation from this schedule, the situation should be discussed well in advance with theclass to minimize conflicts.

Subject DaysEnglish Monday, TuesdayHistory Tuesday, WednesdayMath Any dayForeign Language Thursday, FridayScience Friday, Monday

To accommodate the entire student body at lunchtime, there are three lunch periods each day: Period F on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and FridayPeriod G on Wednesday.

Lunch ScheduleStudents assigned to Period F or G class/study hall are scheduled for either...l Lunch F1 (G1), followed by class F2-F3 (G2-G3), or l Class F1-F2 (G1-G2), followed by lunch F3 (G3)

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

8:00 - 8:05 Homeroom

8:00 - 8:05 Homeroom

NO HOMEROOM8:00 - 8:05 Homeroom

8:00 - 8:05 Homeroom

8:10 - 9:00 (B) 8:10 - 9:00 (A) 8:00 - 8:50 (A) 8:10 - 9:00 (A) 8:10 - 9:05 (A)

B A A A A9:05 - 10:00 (C) 9:05 - 9:50 (B) 8:55 - 9:40(C) 9:05 - 9:55 (B) 9:10 - 10:05 (B)

C B C B B10:00 - 11:00 9:50 - 10:05 9:40 - 9:55 9:55 - 10:10 10:05 - 10:45

SchoolMeeting

Break Break BreakAdvisor/Class

Meeting

11:05 - 12:00 (E) 10:05 - 10:55 (C) 9:55 - 10:40 (D) 10:10 - 11:00(C) 10:45 - 11:40 (D)

E C D C D12:05 - 12:25 (F1) 11:00 - 11:50 (D) 10:45 - 11:30 (E) 11:05 - 11:55 (D) 11:45 - 12:05 (F1)

F1 D E D F112:30 - 12:55 (F2) 11:55 - 12:15 (F1) 11:35 - 11:55 (G1) 12:00 - 12:20 (F1) 12:10 - 12:40 (F2)

F2 F1 G1 F1 F212:55 - 1:20 (F3) 12:20 - 12:45 (F2) 12:00 -12:20 (G2) 12:25 - 12:45 (F2) 12:40 - 1:05 (F3)

F3 F2 G2 F2 F31:25 - 2:15 (G) 12:45 - 1:10 (F3) 12:20 - 12:45 (G3) 12:45 - 1:10 (F3) 1:10 - 2:05 (H)

G F3 G3 F3 H2:20 - 3:10 (H) 1:15 - 2:10 (G) 12:50 - 1:30 (H) 1:15 - 2:05 (G) 2:10 - 3:00 (E)

H G H G E2:15 - 3:05 (E) 2:10 - 3:05 (H)

E H3:05 - 3:35

Clubs

Thayer Academy Upper School Daily Bell Schedule

� UPPER SCHOOL DISCIPLINARY POLICY�

GENERAL EXPECTATIONSConsistent patterns of honorable behavior and the ability of young people to grow and learn fromtheirmistakes are of fundamental concern to the school. We believe, therefore, that repeated offensesshould carry heavier penalties. Our goal is to foster in all students a strong sense of individual responsibility and a clear understanding that they are expected to treat others with respect and cour-tesy and to act with honesty and integrity.

By joining the Thayer community, each student agrees to abide by the rules and principles articulatedin this Handbook and by such additional rules and regulations as may be established by Thayer fromtime to time.

In addition, every Thayer student represents not only himself or herself and his or her family, but alsoThayer by his or her conduct, on or off campus, and whether Thayer is in session or not. Thayer hasthe right at any time to impose disciplinary sanctions, including dismissal or expulsion, on any studentif his or her actions on or off campus violate reasonable expectations of conduct or in any way dam-age or impugn the reputation of Thayer, its faculty, or its student body. Such actions may include,but are not limited, to the following: illegal use of drugs and alcohol, shoplifting, vandalism, disruptiveand inappropriate behavior while visiting another school or institution.

If a student is the subject of criminal proceedings (whether by way of arrest, the application for acriminal complaint, or otherwise), Thayer may suspend the student pending the outcome of thoseproceedings. However, Thayer is in no way bound by either the pending nature or the outcome ofany criminal proceedings against a student. When warranted, Thayer may elect to pursue its owndisciplinary proceedings and make its own determinations at any time-before criminal proceedingsformally begin, while those proceedings are ongoing, or after those proceedings have concluded.

DEFINITIONS OF DISCIPLINARY INFRACTIONS & POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCESSince honesty is expected in all dealings, lying about the facts in a disciplinary case increases boththe student’s culpability and the severity of the penalty. The disciplinary process may take into ac-count any factors that Thayer deems appropriate and in the interest of the Thayer community.

1. We regard the following as serious offenses: l Disrespect to a member of the faculty or staff l Repeated tardiness l Leaving school without permission l Smoking or chewing tobacco l Unacceptable behavior while under Thayer’s jurisdiction on or off campus l Repeated minor offenses

At the discretion of the faculty, Class Dean, Dean of Students, and Upper School Director, one ormore of the following may result.

l Detention Work Detail l Conference with the Upper School Director l Note to parents or a conference l Disciplinary Committee Hearing

At the discretion of the Upper School Director, certain instances may warrant additional conse-quences. All detentions must be completed within one week unless the Dean of Students approvesan extension of time.

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

2. We regard the following as very serious offenses: l Sale, use, possession, or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while under Thayer’s jurisdiction, on or off campus. (See also Thayer’s Illegal Drug and Alcohol Policy) l Stealing or unauthorized removal of another’s possessions or intrusion into another’s locker, book bag, or desk l Cutting class or study hall, or other scheduled commitments l Possession or use of weapons l Cheating or plagiarism l Skipping school l Destruction of property l Assault or harassment of other students or of adults (See also Harassment Policy, p. 12.) l Possession of fireworks of any kind l Gambling or any inappropriate exchange of money l Misuse of Internet resources l Inappropriate use of cell phones, cell cameras, iPods, iPads, smart phones, or similar

electronic devices (including unauthorized recordings or photography in class) l Repeated behavior that undermines the effectiveness of the school community.

Such behavior would include disruptiveness, or the inability or unwillingness to follow instructions and guidelines.

Very serious offenses may result in a combination of consequences that may include, but are notlimited, to probation and suspension. If the circumstances warrant, a student may be expelled ordismissed even for a first offense.

Definitions of Some Important Disciplinary Consequences l Detention: Students will be assigned detention by their Class Dean, the Dean of Students, or

the Upper School Director. Detentions are scheduled by the Dean of Students. l Probation: Probation represents a warning to a student that any future very serious offense

will likely result in suspension, dismissal, or expulsion. l Strict Probation: A student placed on strict probation may not serve as a class officer, Com-

munity Council representative, team captain, or in any other school leadership capacity. In ad-dition, the student may not participate in any community social events, including dances, theSemi, the Prom, or nonacademic field trips.

l Suspension: Students on suspension are not allowed to be on campus or attend school eventsfor the duration of the suspension.

l Dismissal: A student who is dismissed is no longer a member of our community and may notbe present on campus without the permission of the Headmaster or Division Director. A dis-missed student may be given the option to apply for readmission after the passage of a signif-icant amount of time if circumstances so warrant it, and according to such preconditions asthe Headmaster determines.

l Expulsion: A student who is expelled will have no option for readmission, may not receive adiploma, and may not be present on campus without the permission of the Headmaster.

Disciplinary Procedures The Upper School Director is primarily responsible for Upper School discipline. In all disciplinary mat-ters, the administration considers the student’s school record and the particular circumstances of aninfraction. As is appropriate, the administration also consults with the student’s advisor, teachers,and Class Dean. Since the disciplinary experience should result in learning and growth, this processis very important.

At the discretion of the Upper School Director, the Upper School Disciplinary Committee (an electedgroup of faculty members and students) may hear cases involving very serious misconduct and rec-ommend appropriate disciplinary action to the Upper School Director. The Upper School Director, athis or her professional discretion, may accept, reject, or amend those recommendations.

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UPPER SCHOOL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

If the Disciplinary Committee is convened to review a student’s alleged misconduct, the student willattend the meeting, accompanied by the student’s advisor. If the student’s advisor is unable to attend, another faculty member, approved by the student, will attend the meeting. At its discretion, the Disciplinary Committee may ask other individuals who have knowledge of the case to attend its deliberations.

In all disciplinary matters, Thayer Academy reserves the right, at its own discretion and in its bestjudgment, to vary from these procedures or to impose such penalties as it deems appropriate. Onlyin matters related to dismissal or expulsion may decisions be appealed to the Headmaster.

� EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS l UPPER SCHOOL �

For information on activities, organizations, and clubs, go to www.thayer.org/USactivities.

� COMMUNITY LEADERS l UPPER SCHOOL �

For a list of community leadership positions (Community Council, Class Officers, Class Deans)

go to www.thayer.org/USactivities. (See right column)

� THAYER ACADEMY PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION (TAPA) �

The purpose of the Thayer Academy Parents’ Association (TAPA) is to encourage and coordinateparent involvement, to enhance communication between parents and the school, and to financially support various special events and programs benefiting the entire student body. All parentsof students in both the Upper and Middle Schools are automatically members of the Parents’ Association and are welcome to attend all TAPA meetings.

TAPA is overseen by an executive committee, which consists of a President, Vice President, Secretary,Treasurer, Middle School President, Middle School Vice President, Middle School Secretary, two Volunteer Coordinators, and a Member-at-Large. A nominating committee nominates these individ-uals annually, and they are voted on at the last TAPA meeting each year. Meeting minutes and by-laws are available upon request from the TAPA president.   

Parents’ Association Executive Board

President Nancy Doyle P ’16Vice President Heidi Walsh P ’10, ’14Treasurer Denise Kotopoulos P ’15, ’18Secretary Ellen Fitzpatrick P ’12, ’13, ’16Middle School President Jennifer Sage ’87 P ’16 ’18Middle School Vice President Monica Kennedy P ’17, ’18, ’19   Middle School Secretary Bee Raymond P ’11, ’18  Volunteer Coordinators Linda Hooley P ’06, ’08, ’13, ’16, Joan Windwer P ’10, ’13, ’15Member-At-Large Beth Foley P ’15, ’17

The Parents’ Association recognizes that the amount of time one is able to commit to volunteer activities varies from parent to parent, so we try to schedule meetings and activities accordingly.Whether you are available on a one-time or ongoing basis, we welcome your participation. If you areinterested in volunteering, please complete the online form at www.thayer.org/Volunteer

For more about TAPA, go to www.thayer.org/ParentWelcome or contact Deb Budde P '10, '12,Assistant Director of Annual Giving & Parent Programs (781.664.2511 or dbudde@thayer.org).

To confirm that you have read the Handbook, please complete the online Handbook Agreement at www.thayer.org/HandbookAgreement.