Our goal is to design and provide the most supportive and safe educational setting that will lead to the best possible outcomes for all students. With this in mind, it is our policy to recognize, preserve, and protect the individual rights of all students through the enforcement of rules and regulations outlined in the Handbooks and Codes of Conduct below:

• Malden Public Schools Handbook PreK-12
• Acceptable Use Policy
  • 2025-2026 District Approved/Supported Digital Tools
• Attendance Policy
• Bullying Prevention & Intervention

Students, Families, & Caregivers Handbook 2025-2026

 

 

 

School Committee Members

 

Mayor Gary Christenson, Chairperson 

Michael Drummey, Ward 1 

Robert McCarthy, Ward 2 

Jennifer Spadafora, Vice Chair, Ward 3

Dawn Macklin, Ward 4

 

Elizabeth Hortie, Ward 5

Joseph Gray, Ward 6

Keith Bernard, Ward 7

Sharyn Rose-Zeiberg, Ward 8

 

District Leaders

 

Dr. Timothy Sippel, Superintendent of Schools

 

Komal Bhasin, Assistant Superintendent

Pamela MacDonald, Assistant Superintendent

 

 

Dr. Sarah McLaughlin, Assistant Superintendent

Toni Mertz, Director of Finance and Operations

School Leaders

 

Alex Rock, ELC Interim Principal

Dr. Kari-ann Murphy, Beebe Principal

Dr. Matthew Stahl, Ferryway Principal 

Adam Weldai, Forestdale Principal

 

Rafael Garcia, Linden Principal

Van Huynh, Salemwood Principal

Christopher Mastrangelo, MHS Principal

 

Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity 

In compliance with federal and state law, it is the policy of the Malden Public Schools not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, active military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, or pregnancy-related condition, homelessness, ancestry, ethnic background, national origin, or any other category protected by state or federal law. in its educational programs, activities or employment policies. 

 Every student will be given equal opportunity in school admission, admissions to courses, course content, support services, and extracurricular and athletic activities.

Inquiries regarding the compliance with these policies may be made directly to the principals of each school, the superintendent’s office, or the US Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, 617-289-0111, www.ed.gov/ocr.

 

 

Dear Students, Educators, Staff, Families & Caregivers:

 

I am pleased to present the Malden Public Schools Student Handbook for the 2025-2026 school year. This handbook reflects our core values: include and collaborate, embrace growth, and do right by all kids.

 

In this handbook you will be able to find information about district-wide policies, student support service offerings, established procedures for the district and more. 

 

I am thankful to the Malden Public Schools community for your continued support of our students. I wish each of you a fantastic 2025-2026 school year!

 

Go Malden!

 

Timothy Sippel, Ed.L.D.

Superintendent of Schools

 

 

 

To ensure all parents/caregivers /guardians and students are informed of important district policies, we request that all students and their parents/caregivers /guardians sign and return the Student and Parents/Caregiver Consent and Release Form located on the last page of this Handbook. 

 

Parents/caregivers/guardians and students will be apprised of any significant changes to School Committee policy or district procedures that take place after this Handbook’s publication.

 

Our goal is to design and provide the most supportive and safe educational setting that will lead to the best possible outcomes for all students. With this in mind, it is our policy to recognize, preserve, and protect the individual rights of all students through the enforcement of policies, rules, and regulations outlined in this Handbook.

 

The Malden Code of Conduct includes:

• Rights and Responsibilities
• Approaches to Promote Safe and Supportive Schools
• Student Conduct
• Student Due Process Rights
• Discipline for Students with Disabilities

 

 

 

School & Parent/Caregiver Communications

 

Malden Public Schools’ goal is to provide effective communications to parents, caregivers, and families at the district and school level.

 

Back-to-School Night

At the beginning of the year, each school will host a Back to School Night/Open house. On this night, teachers will use the opportunity to meet the parents/caregivers and their students and give them a preview of the classroom, their goals for the class, and for your student. They’ll share information about their teaching style and methodology, how they grade and the requirements for a good grade. This is a great opportunity for parents/caregivers to engage and begin lines of communication with teachers. Schools will communicate the timing of this night directly to parents/caregivers.

 

Caregiver/Educator Conferences

Caregiver/Educator conferences provide an opportunity for parents/caregivers to have one-to-one meetings with their student’s teachers. During this time, parents/caregivers are able to discuss report cards, ask questions regarding their student’s academic progress etc. There are two scheduled parent/caregivers visitations during the school year. 

 

The dates and times of the parent/caregivers visitations will be determined by each school’s administration.

 

ParentSquare Communications Platform

Malden Public Schools uses ParentSquare as our communications platform. The ParentSquare system allows the Superintendent and Principals to send information that is time sensitive and relevant to the safety and education of students in our schools. Teachers may also use the system to provide information on day-to-day classroom happenings and important updates. 

 

During the school year, parents/caregivers will receive email, text, and phone messages from the school, from the district, and from their student’s teacher about snow days, conferences, academic events, and other updates and reminders through ParentSquare. At registration, all caregivers are asked to provide a cell phone number and email address for use in the platform. If your phone number or email address changes, please let your student’s school office know of the change in a timely manner. Parents can log-in to ParentSquare to get full access to all of its features or simply receive messages to their phones.

 

Aspen Training for Parents/Caregivers 

Aspen is our Student Information System (SIS) where important contact, health, and academic information is stored. All parents/caregivers receive an Aspen account at the time of registration. It is important for parents/caregivers to have access to their Aspen account to update their student’s information and access their student’s academic and attendance reports. If you do not have access to your Aspen account or are missing students in your Aspen account, please contact the school’s administrative assistants for help.

 

 

Emergency Contact

This is critical information that must be updated in case of an emergency. 

 

Information Changes

Please contact the schools’ administrative assistants to update all contact information for a student. Malden Public Schools cannot provide or release students to any individual who is not registered in ASPEN as a contact or emergency contact.

 

Change of Address and Contact Information

Any time a student changes their address, the school office should be notified immediately. The parent/caregivers must provide the school with a utility bill/ lease etc. which shows the parent/caregivers’s name and current address. Any change in contact information, including telephone numbers, should be submitted to the office immediately. If a student is moving from Malden, the parent/caregivers must come to the school office to sign transfer documents.

 

Student Custody

If you have legal custody matters and/or current restraining orders involving your student through a court order, it is important that the school administration has a copy of this document.

 

Please do not assume that school employees know about custody issues. Be sure that the school knows if any other parent, caregiver, or adult is not allowed to pick up your student from school. If at any time during the year, a court order is changed or issued, please notify the Principal.

 

Social Media

To stay up to date on happenings in the Malden Public Schools, you can follow our Facebook, Instagram, or X accounts and visit our district website at maldenps.org.

 

School Cancellations

Malden Public Schools believes that our students are best served academically and socially by being in school. However, our top priority is always the safety of our students and staff. When winter storms are forecast, the district leadership closely monitors conditions and consults with Malden City Hall and the Malden Department of Public Works to determine whether canceling school is necessary to ensure everyone's safety.

 

Closing school is a last resort, but when a decision is made to cancel school, the district will make an official announcement and circulate it as widely as possible. Families, students and staff should always assume that school will be open unless they receive a message from the Mayor and/or the Superintendent announcing the closing of school. Please remember, any day that is cancelled due to inclement weather has to be made up as an additional school day at the end of the school year in June.

 

 

 

 

The School-Caregiver-Student Compact will be jointly developed with district representatives and family members. The compact outlines how parents, the entire district staff, and students will share in the responsibility for improved student academic achievement and the means by which the school and the parents will build and develop partnerships to help children achieve the State’s high standards (ESSA, Section 1116(d)).

Malden Public Schools’ Involvement

The school district understands the importance of the school experience to every student and their role as educators and models. Therefore, the district agrees to carry out the following responsibilities to the best of its ability: 

• Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in an affirming and engaging learning environment that enables all students to meet the challenging State academic standards. 
• Address the importance of communication between teachers and caregivers on an ongoing basis through, at a minimum: 
• Parent-teacher conferences in elementary schools, at least annually, during which the compact shall be discussed as the compact relates to the individual child’s achievement;
• Frequent reports to caregivers on their child’s progress;
• Reasonable access to staff for meetings on student progress;
• Ensuring regular two-way, meaningful communication between family members and school staff, and, to the extent practicable, in a language that family members can understand (ESSA, Section 1116(d)(1-2)).
• Treat each child with dignity and respect.
• Strive to address the individual needs of the student.
• Acknowledge that caregivers are vital to the success of children and school.
• Provide a safe, positive, and meaningful learning environment.
• Assure every student has access to quality teachers, curriculum, and learning experiences.
• Assure that the school staff communicates clear expectations for performance to both students and caregivers.

Family’s Involvement

The family understands that participation in their student’s education will help their achievement and attitude. Therefore, the family will continue to carry out the following responsibilities to the best of their ability: 

• Volunteer with the student’s class or school when possible according to the district’s policy and public health guidance;
• Supporting their child’s learning (reading together/homework help/routines);
• Participating, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their child and positive use of extracurricular time;
• Create a home atmosphere that supports learning and literacy development;
• Send the student to school on time and well-rested on a regular basis;
• Attend school functions (school site council meetings/Title I Nights/Workshops) and caregiver-teacher conferences;
• Encourage their child to show respect for all members of the school community and school property;
• Review all school communications (folders/ClassDojo/website) and respond promptly when necessary.

Student’s Involvement

The student realizes education is important. They are the ones responsible for their own success. Therefore, they agree to carry out the following responsibilities to the best of their ability: 

• Get to school on time every day.
• Develop a positive attitude toward school and extend best effort at all times.
• Be responsible for completing classwork/homework on time.
• Be cooperative to both classmates and teachers and ask for help when needed.
• Be respectful to all school members and to school property.

 

 

 

 

The Malden Public Schools seeks to promote excellent school attendance. The Massachusetts General Laws state that parents/caregivers are responsible for their student's attendance (M.G.L. C 76§2, C 76§4), and that absences may not exceed 7 full-day session or 14 half-day sessions in any 6 month period (M.G.L. C 76§1). The school system employs an attendance officer to support parents/caregivers and encourage regular compliance with the state statute. Parents/caregivers and other authorized concerned individuals may contact their school Principal, who will contact the attendance officer regarding school attendance issues.

 

Supervisor of Attendance

The Malden Public Schools Supervisor of Attendance coordinates with school-based staff to investigate attendance problems primarily outside the school environment. They work in the community, visit homes, and counsel students and their parents/caregivers. When necessary, the Supervisors of Attendance file and represent chronic cases in the City of Malden Juvenile Court.

 

Supervisor of Attendance has regular meetings with attendance school teams to support students and caregivers to ensure that students are attending school. 

 

Truancy 

Under Massachusetts General Laws Per G.L. c. 119, § 21, a Child Requiring Assistance (CRA) is a student aged 6-18 who is, in part, habitually truant; meaning the student is 'willfully' failing to attend school for more than eight (8) school days in a quarter without a lawful and reasonable excuse from attendance. Students must attend school. Truancy is defined as any unexcused absence from school. Administrators will notify parents/caregivers and/or initiate court involvement for students habitually late or absent. 

 

Child Requiring Assistance (CRA)

A Child Requiring Assistance case is where parents/caregivers, or school officials ask the court to help supervise a student. Supervisor of Attendance (SOA), working with school staff, makes decisions on future action based on investigative findings, prior attendance patterns, and correspondence with parents/caregivers and the school. One option is court referral. The decision to file a CRA is made by the SOA based on the finding and results only after exhausting all other possible courses of action. The CRA will only be filed if the student has accumulated 8 or more unexcused absences in a single quarter and the school has documented intervention steps in ASPEN.

 

Absences & Excused Absences

Regular and punctual school attendance is essential for success in school. We recognize that parents/caregivers of students attending our schools have special rights as well as responsibilities, one of which is to ensure that their students attend school regularly, in accordance with state law. Students who have 10 or more consecutive absences may be unenrolled from the Malden Public School. In these instances the school will contact the caregiver to support attendance concerns prior to discharging the students from the district.

 

All students must be present in school for at least 3.5 hours in order for them to be counted as present.

 

Therefore, students may receive excused absences from school attendance only for the following reasons:

• Illness, injury or quarantine that prevents the student from attending school upon receipt of doctor’s note.
• Bereavement or serious illness in the parents/caregivers.
• Inclement weather is to endanger the health of the student.
• Observance of major religious holidays.
• A significant personal or parents/caregivers crisis that prevents the student from attending school as approved by school admin.
• Court appearances: Students must present evidence of the required appearance.
• Medical or psychological tests during the school day that cannot be scheduled after school or on the weekend. Students must show evidence (such as a note from the health center) that the tests could not be scheduled after school.
• Other extraordinary situations approved by the school administration.
• Disability-related absences.
• A student may also be excused for other exceptional reasons with approval of the Principal or designee.

 

How Parents/Caregivers Can Help

A student's understanding of the importance of day-to-day schoolwork is an important factor in the shaping of a character. Parents/caregivers can help their students by not allowing them to miss school needlessly. Here are some steps to take in the event of an absence:

 

• Parents/caregivers are asked to provide a written explanation for the absence or tardiness of a student. This will be required in advance for types of absences where advance notice is possible.
• To ensure continuity and maximum advantage of the school program, students must attend school each day and arrive on time. parents/caregivers are expected to telephone the school office prior to 8:00AM to report that their student will be absent on any given day.
• In addition, a written excuse from the parent/caregiver must be presented the day any pupil returns to school from an absence. Any situation resulting in an absence that may have serious extenuating circumstances must be brought to the attention of the Principal, by the parent/caregiver, as soon as those circumstances are apparent. Absent notes are given to the Principal. The notes should include the following: The date(s) of the absence, the student’s full name, the reason for the absence, and the student’s homeroom number. Notes are necessary even when a parent/caregiver has spoken to the Principal, Assistant Principal, or the main office about the absence.
• If a student is sick and cannot attend school, the caregiver must notify the school and consult with the Principal or school nurse to determine next steps.

 

Any student who is absent over three (3) consecutive days must report to the main office with their note and may be asked to see the school nurse. In instances of chronic or irregular absence reportedly due to illness, the school administration may request a physician's statement certifying such absences to be justified.

 

A call to the school nurses or school is not an automatic excuse for absence. Caregivers must send the student with a note to the principal. For PreK-12 all notes must go to the schools’ administrative assistants. For Grades 9-12 caregivers can also email the notes to attendanceMHS@maldenps.org

 

Excused Absences Policy

Malden Public Schools is preparing students for Career and Life readiness. Therefore, students are expected to attend school everyday. 

 

Schools are only allowed to excuse absences that are a result of personal illness, significant life stressors (e.g., death of a family member), attending a medical appointment that cannot be made outside of school hours, participating in a legal proceeding, serving a suspension, attending educational opportunities that have been pre-approved by the school.

 

Unexcused Absences Policy

All other absences (e.g., repetitive absences due to illness that are not documented by medical professionals, family vacations, non-emergency family situations) are required to be marked as unexcused.

 

Three (3) unexcused absences per quarter will be allowed if students present a valid parent/caregiver explaining the absence. Four (4) or more unexcused absences in a quarter will require the teacher to give the student a 59 for that quarter. A lower grade will be given if the student’s actual average is lower than 59. 

 

Students can use the “Attendance Appeals Process.” Contact the school Principal for more information.

 

Classroom Daily Attendance Records 

Daily attendance are legal records and must be recorded accordingly.

1. Attendance must be taken by the teacher at the beginning of every class period in middle and high schools. After comparison of period attendance with the school's daily attendance, student cuts should be noted and addressed following the appropriate prevention/intervention steps.
2. Middle and high school students who are tardy should be marked absent for any class(es) they miss.
3. All students must be present in school for at least 3.5 hours in order for them to be counted as present. 
4. Notations of early dismissal must be recorded with the time of dismissal and documentation indicating the reason should be kept on file in accordance with school protocol.

 

Did Not Report to School (DNR)

During the first week of school, homeroom teachers at all levels should make personal calls to the parents/caregivers of their students introducing themselves and inviting the parents/caregivers to either visit the school or to call at any time to check on the attendance and progress of their student. The message should reinforce the need for consistent attendance and the procedures a parent/caregiver should follow if their student is absent. In the event any student has not reported at the start of the school year, the teacher should inquire about the student’s failure to attend. Teachers should document all communications by entering support notes in ASPEN, including if a student will not be returning to school. Please note that students are expected to report within eight (8) days of the first day of school or after initial assignment. On the tenth (10th) day, the student will automatically become a DNR (Did Not Report) and be discharged from the school. Parents/caregivers should be made aware of this procedure when called if their students have not reported. Every year before October 1st, districts discharge students who did not report to school.

 

Cutting Class/Skipping Class

Malden Public Schools considers cutting class to be a serious disruption to our school community rather than an attendance issue. Please refer to Code of Conduct for details about infractions and consequences related to our discipline policy.

 

Any student who is marked present in school, but does not report to class will be marked absent in the missing class and the absence will count as unexcused absence. Students can be subject to consequences addressed in the MPS Code of Conduct Policy

 

Vacations

Attending school every day is vital to students’ academic success. Parents/caregivers and students should make every possible effort to plan vacations during the regular scheduled school vacations listed in the annual academic calendar. State policy requires Malden Public Schools to mark skipped days as unexcused absences. Vacations other than regularly scheduled school vacations are unexcused absences.

 

“Skipping School” is considered truancy as well as an unexcused absence. Missing school days directly before and after school breaks due to extended vacations is not permitted.

 

School based staff cannot excuse any vacation time from students’ records and teachers are not permitted to give out make-up work for such instances.

 

Student Absence Notification Program

Families will be notified through an automatic call notification when their child is absent or tardy, as well as when their child is approaching a threshold of excessive absences. These calls will be made mid-morning each day.

 

Each Principal will notify a student’s parent/caregiver by telephone within 3 days of the student’s absence in the event the parent/caregiver has not informed the school of the absence. Each Principal or designee shall notify and meet with any student, and the parent/caregiver who has missed five (5) or more unexcused school days. All students must be present in school for at least 3.5 hours in order for them to be counted as present. The purpose of this meeting is to develop action steps to improve student attendance and shall be developed jointly by the Principal or designee, the student, and the student’s parent/caregiver. The parties may seek input from other relevant school staff and/or officials from relevant public safety, health and human service, housing, and nonprofit agencies.

 

Home & Hospital Tutoring

When a physician determines that a student must remain at home or in a hospital on a day or overnight basis, or any combination of both, for medical reasons for more than 14 consecutive days, or who can be anticipated to accumulate more than 14 absences in a school year, the student should be offered tutoring at home or in the hospital. The referral should be made to the Home & Hospital Instruction program when a Physician Statement is received by the school nurse. The attendance for students participating in the Home & Hospital Instruction Program should be marked “constructively present” (CP). The school must document in writing all offers of home tutoring and acceptances or rejections by the parent or caregiver. If a parent/caregiver rejects home tutoring or other appropriate academic services for a student who will be absent for an extended period, a record of that rejection must be retained in the student’s file and a 51A should be filed with the Department of Children and Families (DCF). 

 

 

 

Mandated Reporting of Neglect and Abuse

All members of Malden Public Schools are mandated reporters. In accordance with Massachusetts state law, Massachusett General Law Chapter 119, Section 51A, a mandated reporter who, in their professional capacity, has reasonable cause to believe that a student is suffering physical or emotional injury resulting from: (i) abuse inflicted upon him which causes harm or substantial risk of harm to the student's health or welfare, including sexual abuse; (ii) neglect, including malnutrition; (iii) physical dependence upon an addictive drug at birth, shall immediately communicate with the department orally and, within 48 hours, shall file a written report with the department detailing the suspected abuse or neglect; or (iv) being a sexually exploited student; or (v) being a human trafficking victim as defined by section 20M of chapter 233. A mandated reporter may, in addition to filing the required report under this section, contact local law enforcement authorities or the student advocate about the suspected abuse or neglect.

 

 

 

District Assessments Overview SY 2025-2026

Expectations:

• All students in grades K-12 are required to take the following diagnostic assessments three times each year.
  • K-5 ELA: DIBELS benchmark assessments
  • K-8 ELA: i-Ready diagnostic assessments
  • 9-12 ELA:  IXL diagnostic assessment 
  • K-12 Math: IXL diagnostic assessment

Students educated with Massachusetts public funds are required by federal laws and the 1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Law, state law M. G. L. Chapter 69, section 1I, to participate in statewide testing, including the MCAS and ACCESS exams.  Some students at Malden High School also participate in the PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, and AP exams.  At intervals, random sampling of students, as determined by the US Department of Education, in the district take the national NAEP exam (National Assessment of Educational Progress).

 

 

 

Malden Public Schools has visitation guidelines for all visitors, including parents/caregivers. Below are all the guidelines that all visitors must adhere to in order to ensure the safety of our students and staff. The safety of all students in our buildings is a priority. 

Signing-in/out

• Visitors must not have any signs of illness such as colds, running nose, fever, etc.
• Visitors, including parents/caregivers and members of the media entering the Malden Public Schools must report to the main office and register at the time of arrival and departure. Sign-in logs and visitor badges will be provided. Signs will be posted on all outside doors directing visitors to register in the school’s main office. Guests and visitors must sign-out when leaving the building.

Parking

• Parents/caregivers and visitors are responsible for obeying traffic rules. This involves drop off and pick up areas and parking in areas around the buildings.

Classroom Visits

• In order to not interfere with the education of students, the Principal has the right to deny a request to visit a particular classroom at a particular time, limit the number of visitors to a classroom, and to set classroom visitation times for a maximum of 15 minutes per content area (Literacy, math, science or social studies).
• There are some classrooms where no visitors are allowed due to the students' programmatic needs.
• Requests to visit a classroom must be communicated in writing in advance.
• Classroom visits should be planned in advance with the consent of the Principal. Requests for classroom visits will be approved on a case by case basis. 
• A pre-meeting with representatives from the Office of Education will take place to answer questions, provide context and determine if a classroom visit is warranted. 
• Approved classroom visits will be scheduled on a day/time that avoids disruption to instruction and assessments. 
  • The Principal will give notice to teachers of approved classroom visits.
• During the classroom visit the parent/caregiver will adhere to observation guidelines established by Malden Public Schools, for example no pictures, videos or interacting with students while in the classroom.
  • The goal is to observe teaching and not to engage in conversations with the teacher or students in order to avoid disruption of the class assembly. 
• A post-classroom visit debrief will take place giving the parent/caregiver an opportunity to ask questions.

Students’ Privacy

• During the 15 minute classroom visit, visitors cannot record or photograph students.
• Visitors cannot engage in conversations with students or request information from students.

 

Observations for Special Education Programs (Current or Proposed)

In accordance with M.G.L. c. 71B §3, the Malden Public Schools permits parents/caregivers and their designees (defined by law as parent designated independent evaluators and educational consultants) to conduct in-school observations of their student’s current or proposed special education program.

 

If a parent/caregivers or designee wishes to conduct such an observation, the following procedures shall be followed:

 

1. The parent/caregivers shall contact the Special Education Office and indicate that an observation is requested. The parent/caregivers will indicate the name of the person who will conduct the observation and the affiliation of that person to the student and/or parent/caregivers.

 

2. If the request for the observation comes from someone other than the parent/caregivers, the school district will need to confirm with the parent/caregivers the identity of the observer and ensure that the parent/caregivers consents to the observation. If the designee wishes to observe the student’s records, the school district must obtain written consent from the parent/caregivers before allowing the designee to access the student’s record in accordance with the Massachusetts student record regulations.

 

3. Upon notification of the request for the observation, the school district will provide timely access to the student’s current or proposed educational program. The school district will contact the parent/caregivers and/or designee to schedule a mutually convenient time for the observation. Please be advised that there may be certain times of the year such as when the MCAS is being administered that the district generally will not schedule observations due to the disruption the observation would cause during these particular time periods. If the observation is requested during one of these time periods the district will work with the observer to find another mutually agreeable time for the observation.

 

4. The school district will also discuss with the parent/caregivers and/or designee in advance of the observation a reasonable time allotment for the observation. The observer will be permitted to observe both academic and non-academic activities if requested. Observation times will be determined on an individual basis depending on the circumstances of the particular student and/or program to be observed. The observation times will be of sufficient duration to enable the observers to evaluate a student’s performance in the current program and the ability of a proposed program to enable such student to make effective progress.

 

5. The Malden Public Schools is responsible to ensure the safety of its students at all times. If, in the opinion of the school district, the observation threatens to compromise the safety of the students in the observed program, the integrity of the program during the observation, or if there is the threat of disclosure by the observer of confidential or personally identifiable information he or she may obtain while observing the program, the school district may impose reasonable limitations and restrictions on the observation. The school district will discuss these concerns with the observer prior to the observation and the school district will make reasonable efforts to work with the observer around these issues to ensure a safe and productive observation. Any limitation and restrictions imposed pursuant to this paragraph will be done on a case by case basis.

 

6. The Malden Public Schools may exercise its discretion at any time to reschedule or terminate an observation in the event of a building emergency or a disruption that impacts the physical or emotional well-being of the student in the school or the program being observed.

 

 

 

MIDDLE SCHOOL HONORS PATHWAY 

We believe that every student must be held to high expectations, all middle school students need to engage in content deeply through problem-based learning, critical and creative thinking, and higher-order questioning. How we differentiate general curriculum from honors classes is in how we add sufficient challenges for students to continue to progress in their learning. All students need access to a curriculum that is challenging, exploratory, integrative, and relevant. What’s challenging to one student is not to another. While the qualities of a challenging curriculum can be considered for all students, honors classes include these to a larger degree with more intensity to match the level of challenge needed for a student to stretch, grow, and be in a zone for true learning to occur (zone of proximal development).

 

 

 

Immunization Requirements/ Medical Records

In accordance to State Law Chapter 76, Section 15, no student should be admitted to school unless he or she has been immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, polio and other communicable disease specified by the department of health except for medical or religious reasons.

 

If it is for medical reasons, the parent/caregivers must provide physician documentation that he or she has personally examined the student and that the physical condition of the student is such that the student would be endangered by the vaccination. This documentation must be provided yearly, at the beginning of the school year. 

 

If it is for religious reasons, the parent/caregivers must say so in writing yearly, at the beginning of the school year

 

 All immunizations must meet Massachusetts’s minimum requirement and must be certified in writing by a licensed physician, before a student is admitted to school. 

 

Immunization vaccinations may be obtained from a private physician or by appointment from the Board of Health Clinic.

 

Department of Public Health regulations effective March 1, 1990, require students to present evidence of having been previously screened for lead poisoning or to be screened as a condition for entry into kindergarten. Parents/caregivers should provide documentation from their student’s pediatrician.

 

Physical Examination Requirements

A complete physical examination is required of all students entering Malden Public Schools for the first time and at least three or four years thereafter. Completed physical examination forms must be presented no later than the first day of school in August. 

 

No student will be able to attend school without providing all required medical documentation. Only upon completion of this process will a student be fully registered and allowed to begin school. For more information about immunizations and physical examination requirements, contact your student’ school nurse.

 

Please note that if your student travels out of the country for more than 28 days at any time during the school year, including the summer break, it is Malden Public School Policy (per Malden Board of Health) that they must have a TB test done and read before re-registering or returning to school.

 

Please contact your student’s doctor or visit the Malden Board of Health for this required TB screening. You may call the Board of Health directly at 781-397-7052 to schedule an appointment upon your return.

Please bring TB test date and results to the Welcome Center if re-registering your child or bring it to your student’s school nurse upon return, if during the summer break.

 

If you have any questions, please contact your student’s school nurse directly by phone or email.

 

Immunization/Physical Requirements K-12 for Malden Public Schools

Kindergarten Entrance Requirements

• DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus) – 5 doses—- the last dose must be after the age of 4.
• Polio – 4 doses—-the last dose must be after age 4.
• MMR – 2 doses—-the first dose is after the age of 1
• Hepatitis B – 3 doses
• Varicella – 2 doses or documented disease history from MD
• TB testing per Malden Board of Health
  • TB risk assessment from a healthcare provider, if born in the US.
  • Actual TB test and results, if not born in the US or if a student has been out of the country for more than 28 days.
• Physical Exam – done within 1 year of entrance to school.
• Lead screening – most recent

Grade 5 & 9 Additional Requirements

• Physical Exam – completed within the year of grade entrance
• Parents are encouraged to send in a copy of their student’s yearly physical exam so the school health record can be updated.

Grade 7 Requirements

• 1 dose TDap
• 1 dose MenACWY

Grade 12 Requirements

• Beginning September ( 2024)
• 2 doses of MenACWY (one dose given after 16th birthday)

Requirements for Students New to MPS

• Massachusetts State law immunization grade level requirements
• MUST have a current physical exam done within 1 year of entrance to school
• MUST have TB testing per Malden Board of Health
  • TB risk assessment from a healthcare provider, if born in the US.
  • Actual TB test and results, if not born in the US or if a student has been out of the country for more than 28 days.

Your Student’s Health Needs

If a student has a health issue to be addressed (i.e. diabetes or severe allergies), we ask that parents/caregivers contact the school nurse directly by phone or email prior to the start of school as this allows time to plan for his care. If a specific health issue arises during the school year, please contact the nurses directly.

Emergency Health Forms

Current emergency health information is required for all students each school year. We ask your cooperation in completing and returning all of the required emergency health forms when school nurses send the forms to you in the first week of school.

 

This form should be completed by the parent/ caregivers. Contact information provided is used to reach parents/caregivers in times of illness and injury and, therefore, it is crucial that these forms be thoroughly completed. The information provided is also used to get to know your student’s health needs and to plan for care. Also included on this form is permission to take over the counter medication if needed during the school day. Parent/caregiver signature is required.

 

You must also update your information on file with the Nurse’s office during the year as needed. 

 

 A copy of this form is available on our website. 

Medications

Medications in Malden Public Schools must be delivered to the School Nurse by a parent/guardian/adult. They also will not be sent home with a student.

At the end of the school year, medications need to be picked up by a parent/guardian/adult or they will be destroyed. The exceptions to this are epi-pens and inhalers, which are allowed to stay in school over summer vacation for the next school year. Expired inhalers and epi-pens will be destroyed if not picked up.

NURSES ARE NOT in the schools during the summer, so any medications left and needed for the summer will not be retrievable. If you think you will need your child’s medication over the summer please let your school nurse know

No student is to carry medication with him in school including nonprescription medications. The only exceptions to this rule are for those students requiring emergency medications: inhalers, Epipens/Emergency Epinephrine, and diabetic supplies may be carried by the student. 

 

Students must have a written order from their physician and permission from parents/caregivers on file with the school nurse to have medication in school (including emergency medications). 

Order forms may be printed from the website. Orders must be renewed each year.

 

Please note: all medication sent to school, to be given to your student, must be in a properly labeled pharmacy or manufacturer’s container. If you require a container for school and home, please ask your pharmacist to give you two labeled containers.

Emergency Medication

Any medication required for emergency purposes must be delivered to the nurse by the first day of school.

Parents/caregivers should contact the school nurse by phone or email prior to the start of school to inform her of the student’s allergies. 

 

Parents/caregivers must provide their emergency medication and a written order from the prescribing doctor. Order forms may be printed from the website and parents/caregivers must sign consent form 

 

Students who play sports must inform the school nurse and coach/moderator that they carry an Epipen/Inhaler.

 

Athletes must also introduce themselves to the trainer at the start of the sport season and inform the trainer that they have an Epipen/Inhaler.

 

Prescription & Over The Counter (OTC) Medications

Any prescription or OTC medication brought onto school property must be taken under the supervision of the nurse in the nurse’s office. A parent or caregivers consent form must be filled out and submitted to the nurse before any prescription or OTC medication is administered. 

All prescription medications must also be accompanied by a physician consent form and submitted to the nurse’s office before the nurse is able to administer the medication to the student. 

 

All medications must be brought into school in the original container, labeled with the student’s name, and include the dosage and instructions on how often the medication should be taken. It must be brought directly to the nurse upon entering the school.

 

Any student who is found to be carrying any medication will have the medication confiscated and will be subject to the appropriate consequences outlined in the Substance Misuse Response Procedure per the student Handbook.

 

School Health Screenings

As mandated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, School Health Unit, Malden Public Schools performs health screenings on students annually as follows:

• Hearing – grades K-3, grade 7, grade 10.
• Vision – grades K-5, grade 7, and grade 10.
• Height and weight- BMI – grades 1, 4, 7, and 10 
• Postural screenings – all students grade 5-9 
• SBIRT screenings – grades 7 and 9

If your child fails the Vision, Hearing, or Postural screening—parents/caregivers will be notified by letter for follow up with your own physician.

BMI result letters will not be sent home; if you are interested in knowing your child’s BMI, parent/caregiver may contact the school nurse.

Postural Screening Program will be for students whose parents/caregivers choose to have the screening. Letters will be sent home prior to the screenings.

SBIRT screenings grade 7 & 9 (Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment) will have letters sent home in grade 7 only prior to screenings.

Opt-out form is available for all of these screenings on our website. Please complete this form at the beginning of the school year and send this to the school nurse if you would like your child to opt out of any screenings.

Medical Dismissal

The school nurse or staff may recommend that a student be dismissed if she/he is too ill to take part in her/his coursework. When such a recommendation is made, the student's parents/caregivers will be contacted directly by phone. Parents/caregivers must respond promptly when called to pick up their student for medical reasons. 

 

To ensure students’ health and safety, sick or injured K- 8 students are not permitted to depart school on their own – they must be accompanied by their parent/caregivers or someone who the parent/caregivers has authorized to pick up their student. However, if parents/caregivers are unable to be reached and the student is unable to travel safely on her/his own, school staff may contact law enforcement officials or emergency medical personnel to attend to the student.

 

Expectant & Parenting Student Policy

Expectant and parenting students have academic and other education rights to help students who are expectant and parenting to complete all course requirements. As part of this policy, all schools with grades 6-12 must appoint a school liaison for the Expectant and Parenting Students who is responsible for communicating with health care and parenting classes. 

Concussion Compliance 

All student athletes must complete the required concussion education program yearly. Any student with a prior history of head injury or concussion must have a “Report of Head Injury Form” completed by a parent/caregivers. 

 

Head Injury/Concussion

Any student suffering from a head injury/concussion must complete the school protocol and be cleared by a physician prior to returning to sports/physical education classes. The school holds the final judgment in allowing a student to return to sports here, even if cleared by a physician.

 

 

 

Special Education

Malden Public Schools will ensure that all eligible students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The purpose of Special Education State and Federal Law is to ensure that eligible Massachusetts students receive specialized instruction designed to to meet the unique needs of the child and allow the student to progress effectively in the least restrictive environment. Eligible students shall mean student ages three through twenty-one who have not attained a high school diploma or its equivalent, who has been determined by the Team to have a disability or disabilities, and as a consequence is unable to progress effectively in the general education program without specially designed instruction or is unable to access the general curriculum without a related service (603 CMR 28.02(9)).

 

A disability shall mean one or more of the following impairments:

 

Individualized Education Plan

IEP stands for individualized educational plan. It is a document written for a student with a disability that identifies a student's special education needs and describes the services a school district shall provide to meet those needs.. Often the IEP process can be intimidating and overwhelming to parents/caregivers. The following guidelines will help parents/caregivers become engaged participants in the development and implementation of an effective IEP. 

 

A referral for a Special Education evaluation may be made by a parent/caregivers or any person in a care giving or professional position concerned with the student’s development (603 CMR 28.04 (1)). Once a referral has been made, a consent form describing the types of testing suggested is sent to the parent/caregivers. In addition, a Parent/Caregiver’s Rights brochure is provided as well as information on the opportunity to consult with the Special Education Administrator, prior to the evaluation, to discuss the recommended assessments and the evaluators. Once consent has been received from the parent/caregivers, a multi-disciplinary, appropriately credentialed, team will complete a thorough and comprehensive evaluation, including assessments in all areas of the suspected disability. A team meeting of all the evaluators and the parent/caregivers then meet to review the testing and to determine whether the student is eligible for Special Education. Once eligibility is determined, the team then develops an Individualized Education plan (IEP) for the student in the least restrictive environment in which the student can make meaningful educational progress. There is a wide range of services available to students with disabilities and what is provided will depend on the specific student’s needs. In addition, special educators work with general education teachers to assist them in making accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities within the general curriculum.

 

Before the first IEP meeting:

• Gather information about your student which may include medical information, work samples, report cards, progress reports, classroom observations, independent evaluations, therapists’ reports, state assessments; and most importantly, assessments based on your own first-hand knowledge.
• Draft a vision statement, with your student’s input if possible, describing future goals for academics, behavior, post-secondary education, independence and employment.
• Assess your student’s present level of ability in reading, writing, math, language, attention, social skills, fine & gross motor skills, self care, and technology. Even if you’re not a trained educator, your assessment is invaluable; you know your student better than anyone else.
• Consider inviting a parents/caregivers and/or trusted friend to attend the IEP meeting with you as an advocate/support. 

 

During the IEP meeting:

• Be informed, be vocal, and advocate for the best interests of your student. 
• Expect goals that address a specific need and that they are measurable and appropriately challenging.
• Find out how progress will be measured and when you will be provided with progress reports.
• Consider related services that may be needed, such as therapy (speech and language, physical, occupational) counseling, transportation, nursing and teacher training.
• Note which program modifications and accommodations are proposed; for example, extended time for tests, fewer concepts presented, etc.
• Come to consensus about where the IEP will be carried out: within the general education classroom, within a special education classroom, or in a combination of the two.
• Start early discussing what will happen after high school. Consider now what will pave the way for successful postsecondary education, employment and independent living. 

 

After the IEP meeting:

• Explain any changes to your student and the reasons for them so he/she is not surprised or upset by unexpected changes in the routine.
• Monitor your student’s progress. If there are significant gains, a substantial lack of improvement or a new issue needs to be addressed, request an IEP team meeting before the annual review.

 

Your IEP Rights

• The District will provide you with a Notice of Procedural Safeguards that explains your rights including your rights to participation, prior written notice, consent, dispute resolution including due process rights, an interpreter, translated materials , scheduled meetings that works with you & the team, 

 

For questions regarding special education please contact the Special Education Team Chair at your child’s school. Additional information is also available online at the Massachusetts Bureau of Special Education Appeals website.

 

504 Accommodation Plans

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a non-discrimination statute that ensures disabled students have educational opportunities and benefits provided to non-disabled students. Students may be eligible for educational services under Section 504, as well as under State and Federal Special Education laws. Eligibility under 504 requires that a student has, or has a record of having, or is regarded as having, a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits major life activity. Major life activities include, but are not limited to, learning, communicating, self-care, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, working, or performing manual tasks. Services are available to students meeting the above criteria through a 504 Accommodation Plan. This includes school-sponsored non-academic and extracurricular services and activities. 

 

Who can refer a student for a 504 plan?

The 504 plan process may be started by a parent’s written request or the school’s referral for an evaluation when the student is having academic, social, or behavioral problems that limit one or more major life activities. Major life activities include walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, and learning. In addition, the district must believe that the student needs additional support in the regular education classroom in order to access the curriculum. Section 504 requires consent from the parents before conducting evaluations.

 

How does a student qualify for a section 504 plan?

In order to be eligible for a 504 plan, a student must attend a school that receives federal financial assistance (which includes all public schools in Massachusetts). In addition:

• The student must be of school age;
• The student must have information establishing a mental, psychological, and/or physical disability (including a disability affecting behavior); and
• The disability must substantially limit one or more major life activities.

Students may be eligible for a 504 plan if a temporary disability limits a major life activity.

How is a 504 plan different from special education?

 

In order to be found eligible for special education services and an Individualized Education Program (IEP), a student must be diagnosed with a disability and must, as a result of that disability, require specialized instruction and/or related services in order to make effective progress.

Unlike a special education student, a student with a 504 plan is able to make effective progress in school without the need for specialized instruction and/or related services. However, a student with a 504 plan requires accommodations in order to gain equal access to instruction and/or the school facility. A student’s 504 plan will provide accommodations that allow a student with an impaired major life activity to have the same level of access to the instruction, school activities, and school building as students without disabilities.

A student with an IEP can also have a 504 plan that extends to K–and college levels.

 

 

 

 

Any possession of illegal or misused medication of substances is subject to the Malden Public Schools’ Code of Conduct.

 

District-Wide Policy

The Malden Public Schools Substance Misuse and Abuse Prevention Policy (“Policy”) was written in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 52 of the Acts of 2016, An Act Relative to Substance Use, Treatment, Education and Prevention, signed by Governor Baker in March 2016 requiring schools to have a policy regarding substance use prevention and the education of all students about the dangers of substance use. The Policy has been developed using the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) Guidance on School Policies Regarding Substance Use Prevention and the Safe and Supportive Schools Model as its guide. 

 

As part of this model, the Policy outlines clear expectations for the behavior of students relative to substance use as well as to provide guidance for the faculty and staff when responding to all substance-related incidents. 

 

Additional information and community resources can be found online at:

https://www.cityofmalden.org/215/Substance-Use-Disorder-Resources

 

Information can also be found in a paper form at any of our Schools’ Main Offices.

 

Substance Misuse Response

In the event that a school employee suspects or identifies a student as being under the influence of, in possession of, or as using any alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, or other drugs, that teacher is to report the student to the appropriate administrator immediately and the student shall be escorted from the classroom.

 

If a student is found to be in violation of the Policy, parent(s)/caregivers(s) will be notified to meet with an administrator. Students will be referred to their school counselor or administrator for assessment and will be subject to the following consequences and/or additional action at the Principal’s discretion.

 

Voluntary Self-Disclosure Response

If a student voluntarily confides a substance-use problem to a school employee, the employee will refer the student to their school counselor or administrator. The counselor or administrator will make an assessment and help the student identify available support services. The counselor or administrator will advise the student of The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) -confidentiality protections under the law and will work with this student to develop an intervention plan. The student will not be subject to the Substance Misuse Response Procedure unless under the influence or in possession of any substance or paraphernalia at the time of notification.

 

Student Athletes

In addition to the Malden Public School Substance Abuse Policy and consequences outlined in the Code of Conduct and Substance Misuse and Abuse Response Process, all student athletes will be held to Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) standards and consequences as outlined in the MIAA Handbook and Guidelines on Chemical Health.

 

Mandated Reporting of Abuse

All members of Malden Public Schools are mandated reporters. In accordance with Massachusetts state law, Massachusett General Law Chapter 119, Section 51A, a mandated reporter who, in their professional capacity, has reasonable cause to believe that a student is suffering physical or emotional injury resulting from: (i) abuse inflicted upon him which causes harm or substantial risk of harm to the student's health or welfare, including sexual abuse; (ii) neglect, including malnutrition; (iii) physical dependence upon an addictive drug at birth, shall immediately communicate with the department orally and, within 48 hours, shall file a written report with the department detailing the suspected abuse or neglect; or (iv) being a sexually exploited student; or (v) being a human trafficking victim as defined by section 20M of chapter 233. A mandated reporter may, in addition to filing the required report under this section, contact local law enforcement authorities or the student advocate about the suspected abuse or neglect.

 

Incident Report

Any incident involving a student’s use of substances at school will be documented. The nurse or another school staff member will contact the parent/ caregivers; in the event that the parent/caregivers cannot be reached, the nurse will send a report home with the student. In emergencies, school staff will notify the people indicated on the student’s Emergency Contact, as well as law enforcement office or emergency medical personnel, as necessary or in the best judgment of the school nurse and/or school staff. In any emergency, Malden Public Schools absolute priority will be to first attend to the emergency and ensure the safety and health of the student or students involved in the incident, then secure the surrounding area to address the unsafe conditions, and then contact parents/caregivers, and/or emergency contacts.

 

 

 

Guidance Counselors / Adjustment Counselors 

The Student Support Team (SST) is an integral part of the educational team providing services to students, parents/caregivers, teachers and administrators. The counselor’s goal is to help each student identify their needs, interests, and aptitudes and to use this information to get the most from their educational experience. 

 

The guidance counselor will provide the following services:

• Individual counseling regarding personal problems, school, or home related.
• Information regarding school programs and course selections.
• Academic appraisal through interpretation of test results.
• Vocational and career information and educational opportunities beyond high school.

 

If a student wants to see the guidance counselor or school adjustment counselor, he/she should go before school to make an appointment. If an emergency exists, other arrangements will be made.

 

Threats To Self and/or Others

Staff are required to report all threats to school principal and/or other administrators including threat of self-harm or harm to others. 

 

• If a student threatens their own life, this must be reported immediately to the school Principal and support staff (school social worker, school counselor, student support team etc.).

 

• If a student threatens the life of others, this will immediately be brought to the attention of the school Principal and support staff (school social worker, school counselor, student support team etc.). According to the level of safety, the student may also be subject to the Code of Conduct Policy.

 

 

The purpose of the School Emergency Operations Plan (SEOP) is to provide information on how to respond to emergency incidents by outlining the responsibilities and duties of the district, school, its employees, and students. This plan has been customized to meet the specific and unique needs, capabilities, and circumstances found at any of our schools. 

 

Each year, the School Administration shall review and certify that the plan is current and accurate. This must be done with the School Level Crisis Response Team at the beginning of each school year.

 

The Superintendent of Schools must meet with the police and fire chief to formulate or review a school-specific Emergency Operations Plan at the beginning of each school year as required by Section 363 of Chapter 159 of the Acts of 2000 in Massachusetts General Laws and as enacted by the State Legislature, and conforms to the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and all applicable Homeland Security Presidential Directives.

 

The SEOP plan provides teachers, staff, students, parents, and other members of the community with assurances that the district and school has established guidelines and procedures to respond to incidents/hazards in an effective way.

 

Emergency & Evacuation Procedures

Emergency and evacuation procedures are a very serious part of the school routine. Whether it is a drill or real emergency, the actions that students and staff should take are the same. Emergency drills are held throughout the year. The drills are planned in such a way as to ensure the safety of students and staff in the shortest possible time and in the most efficient and orderly fashion. We will be practicing Safety Drills throughout the school year: Shelter-In-Place, Lockdown, and Fire Drills, This ensures that all students will know what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

 

Shelter In Place

If a school has to go into a “Shelter In Place,” it is announced over the intercom so all staff and students know that they have to stay in their current locations without walking around the building, classes continue as usual. A “Shelter In Place” is meant to restrict and control unnecessary movement of staff and students in the building. Shelter In Place is when there is police activity in the area, a medical emergency inside the school, ambulance pickup, power outage or weather event. 

 

Lockdown 

We use “Lockdown” when there is an emergency impacting a school campus that prevents the safe evacuation of a school building and requires steps to shelter students and staff from danger. All staff must lock the doors, pull down the blinds, silent all cell phones, turn off all lights, including computer monitors. Direct students to a designated safe space.

 

Fire Drill Procedures

Students will follow the directions of the teacher and obey the posted fire drill procedure for each room. The following rules will be observed:

• Look for the fire drill instructions in every room.
• Walk in silence and at a normal pace.
• Stay with the class at all times and assemble in an area outside the building designated by the teacher.
• Do not return to the building until told to do so by the teacher.
• Upon your re-entry to the building, proceed directly back to the classroom.
• If any alarm is sounded when a student is not in a classroom, leave by the closest exit and report to the nearest teacher.

 

Fire Alarms

Massachusetts law provides for imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for up to one year, or for a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and up to five hundred dollars ($500), for anyone who causes a false alarm of fire (M.G.L. c. 269, § 13). Anyone apprehended making a false alarm on school property will be suspended and referred to the authorities for court action. For more information and details about the Malden Public Schools District Safety plan please visit the Malden Public Schools website.

 

Student Monitoring and Safety Supervision:

All students in Kindergarten must be escorted by a staff member or use the “Student Buddy System” (two students going together) to and from the location they need to go: for example a student going to the nurse must be escorted by a staff member or use the buddy system. When the student is ready to go back to join their classmates, the student must be escorted by a staff member or use the buddy system. Students must have a classroom pass to see the nurse, to go to the main office, etc. 

 

For students above Kindergarten, the teacher and staff that the student went to see (for example, nurse, principal, etc.) should call each other to let them know that the student is heading towards them. 

All students outside the school building during recess or participating in any school related activity must be supervised by staff at all times. Staff on duty who are monitoring / supervising students outside the school building during school related activities cannot use their cell phones (unless it is for calling school staff regarding a student/s or an emergency) or engage in any other type of distractions that take their attention away from students. 

 

 

 

 

 

The Malden Public Schools shall support the wellness of students and staff through good nutrition, regular physical activity and positive dietary and lifestyle practices as part of its total learning environment. Our schools contribute to the overall health status of students by providing nutritious foods and opportunities for physical activity, by facilitating wellness through teaching support and promotion of good nutrition and physical activity. Improved health optimizes student performance potential and ensures that students need to be healthy to learn and learn to be healthy. In fostering and establishing a school environment that promotes students’ health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating, students are required to eat lunch in the cafeteria during their lunch period.

 

All students receive a free breakfast and lunch.

 

For the High School, the courtyard is available during the lunch period, during good weather, for relaxation and quiet conversation. Students receive a free lunch, but they can purchase a second lunch. For safety reasons, students are not allowed to bring glass bottles containing food or beverages to school. All eating and drinking is confined to the cafeteria, unless another arrangement has been approved by the Principal. Students may not return to the general area of the school until the lunch period is over. All students are responsible for cleaning up after themselves.

 

 

 

Malden Public Schools is a serious place of learning. There is an expectation that students dress in keeping with reasonable standards of safety, health, and cleanliness, so as not to detract from the educational process. Student attire should not disrupt the educational environment. If a student is wearing clothing that disrupts the educational process, such as clothes that promote drugs, alcohol, or violence, he or she will be asked to go home and change or to wear a t-shirt provided by the school staff. The discretion of administration will prevail in whether the clothing creates a disruption.

 

In accordance with Massachusetts State Law, students have the right to freedom of expression, provided that such right shall not cause any disruption or disorder within the school. Additionally, Massachusetts law prohibits discrimination based on natural and protective hairstyles.

There is an expectation that students dress in a manner that is appropriate for a place of study; and are obeying to reasonable standards of safety, health, and cleanliness, so as not to detract from the education process. If style demonstrates that it is disruptive to the educational process, constitutes a threat to the safety and health of self and others, or is in violation of any statute, it will not be permitted in school. The intent of this document is to create a standard that will align with overall expectations of appropriate attire that contribute to a positive school environment. By no means is the desired outcome of this document for students to be judged or shamed.

 

Clothing that creates a risk of substantial and material disruption or disorder within the school is not acceptable. This may include:

 

• Clothing, including face masks with any picture and/or wording that relates, advertises, or infers to sex, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or displays lewd, vulgar, indecent or “plainly offensive” language (masking is optional)
• Hats, hoods, bandanas, or any other head coverings (except for religious or cultural reasons) 
• Clothing worn in such a manner as to reveal undergarments.
• Strapless tops and halter tops.
• Skirts and shorts where buttocks are visible.
• Sunglasses worn inside the school building.
• Clothing or article that suggests gang activities.
• Chains (wallet, belt, large neck chains, etc.).
• Spiked collars, spiked belts, spiked bracelets.
• Pants, when the waist falls below the hip.

 

The school Principal, having discretion to render judgments regarding what is and what is not appropriate, may, if necessary, waive these policy restrictions in religious and/or medical situations. The Principal will determine what consequences should follow when a student does not comply with this policy. A student may change to wear a school T-Shirt offered by the school, bring their own change of clothes, or a parent/caregivers may be required to bring in a change of clothing.

 

 

 

 

Recommended, but not to exceed the time described below:

 

 

 

Elementary School: Promotion and Retention (SC Policy IKE)

At the end of each school year, elementary students are:

 

1 .   Promoted to the next grade

2.    Promoted "on trial" to the next grade with the status of the child reconsidered after the second  report card

3.    Promoted upon successful completion of summer school

4.    Non-promoted or retained in grade

5  .  Placed in the next grade because of two previous non-promotions

 

Retention should never come as a surprise to parents. Rather, they should be informed by letter, supplementary reports, and conferences that their child is not doing satisfactory work. School administration and faculty have always been tactful in dealing with this delicate matter and should continue to do so.

 

1.  Each child who is being considered for retention is to be reviewed by the Student Support Team (SST) to determine the causes which seem to contribute to the child's present difficulties and to determine the appropriate remedies including but not limited to retention.

 

2.  Kindergarten children should have their promotion founded on the individual child´s general readiness for grade 1. Among other considerations, this would include achievement in fundamental skills required, for learning to read and do mathematics as well as attaining adequate social skills. Kindergarten children should not be promoted on trial to grade 1.

 

3.  Communication with parents is of the utmost importance. Such communication will include teacher letters, mid-quarter supplementaries, report card comments, telephone conferences, school conferences, etc.

 

4.  While parents may be receiving ongoing communication during the school year regarding their child's progress or lack thereof, discussions regarding retention should not be broached until third quarter report cards have been sent home.

 

High School Promotion 

All students must complete all the State MassCORE requirements 

 

What is the MassCore Program of Study? 

MassCore is a state-recommended, rigorous program of study that aligns high school coursework with college and workforce expectations. The recommended program of studies includes 4 years of English; 4 years of Math; 3 years of lab-based Science; 3 years of History/Social Science; 2 years of the same world language; 1 year of the Arts; 5 additional years of “core” courses in any of the above subjects, business education, career, and technical education, health, or technology. 

 

Additional learning opportunities such as Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment, a senior project, online courses for high school or college credit, and service- or work-based learning are recommended. Students who complete the MassCore program of study are better prepared for college and career.

• Take and pass four English (or ESL) courses
• Take and pass three history courses, including U.S. History 1 & 2
• Take and pass four integrated math sequences Math I, Math 2, Math 3, or the traditional sequence a 4th year choice of PreCalculus, Calculus, Statistics, Advanced Quantitative Reasoning,
• Take and pass three lab science courses, including at least two of the following: biology, chemistry, physics
• Take and pass two years of the same world language courses (or two additional ESL courses) Not necessary on consecutive years
• Take and pass two semester courses in the arts
• Take and pass four semester courses in physical education
• Take and pass one semester course in health
• Take and pass one semester course in computers
• Earn a Competency Determination (CD) in MCAS ELA, math, and science & technology/engineering

 

 

 

Progress Reports & Report Cards

Progress Reports and Report Cards can be viewed on ASPEN, our student information system, for students in Grades PK-12. Students and parents/caregivers can access Aspen with a username and password. Please contact the student’s house office for a username and password.

 

The ELC does not issue progress reports, except for students with disabilities. Special Education progress reports are issued twice per year. 

 

Progress Reports

The purpose of the mid-term progress report is as follows:

• To provide parents/caregivers with information on how their student is doing in school.
• To provide positive feedback to students who are doing well.
• To provide information to students who are not doing well and to give them the opportunity to improve their performance before the marking period ends.
• To provide information about how special education students are progressing with the goals and benchmarks laid out in their IEPs.

 

National Honor Society

The National Association of Secondary School Principals in 1921 founded the National Honor Society. In 1927, Head Master Thornton Jenkins established the John W. Hutchins Chapter named in honor of a former Headmaster of Malden High School. The purpose of the National Honor Society is to create an enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate the desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in the students of American secondary schools. Each chapter of the National Honor Society is governed by a constitution and the National Council closely regulates membership standards. Membership in the National Honor Society is based upon excellence in four areas: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Each category is considered independently and information, beginning with the freshman year, is taken into account. Outstanding qualities of leadership, service, scholarship, and character are given equal consideration during the selection process. Eligible members of the Sophomore, Junior, and Senior classes will be notified and invited to apply for membership in the National Honor Society after the second quarter.

 

The following minimum standards must be met as consideration for membership:

• A minimum Cumulative GPA of 88% resulting from the average of all year long academic classes (math, science, language, social sciences, and English).
• Candidates must have attended Malden High School for the equivalent of one semester.
• Candidates receiving a majority vote of the Faculty Board will be inducted into the chapter.
• A member may retain his or her membership as long as he or she continues to fulfill the requirements used as a basis for his or her election. During the year, members are expected to participate in NHS activities, meetings and projects.
• Members are asked to complete and turn in an absence form when they miss a meeting or activity. Two unexcused absences for the whole year will result in a warning and a third unexcused absence will result in the member’s dismissal.

 

Class Rank/Grade Point Average

GPA is determined for students using a weighted 4.0 scale and is based on a framework from MA College/University System for Calculating/Re-calculating GPA. GPA is based on cumulative semester grades and includes all AP, Honors, and College Preparatory courses.

 

A chart is used for the calculation of class rank. This chart is available through the Guidance Department. When the rank is computed, each course is assigned a numerical value from the chart. This numerical value is assigned to each grade on the report card each quarter. The values are totaled and averaged by dividing by the total number of courses per year or for as many quarters and courses that are being computed. All courses will be calculated with the exception of courses graded on a pass/fail basis. Class Rank will be calculated on a minimum of five courses. In the case of a student taking fewer than seven courses, which are included in the class rank, the average of numerical values should be based on that number of courses.

 

To be a speaker at graduation, or to be ranked in the Top Ten students, a student must have completed 75% (15 credits) of his or her education (course work) at Malden High School. Senior rankings are official at the end of the third quarter for graduation speaking purposes.

 

Summer school credit recovery is accepted, not to exceed 4 credits. Students must pass Physical Education. Students who receive an F are ineligible for that season's tryout. A grade of incomplete (INC) renders a student ineligible until the grade is made up following school policy.

 

 

 

 

Personal Items

Students are expected to be responsible for their own personal items. The school will not assume responsibility for valuables left in desks, homerooms, coat pockets, or unlocked lockers.

 

Parents/caregivers should put name labels on all students’ personal belongings. These markings will help school staff locate lost items.

 

Bicycles, Roller Blades, Skateboards & Scooters

Students who take the above forms of transportation to and from school should secure their method of transportation to the bike racks outside of the school. These items are not allowed in the school building and may not be used during school hours. Students should bring their own bicycle locks or otherwise ensure the security of their personal transportation methods while stored outside of the school building. The school will not assume responsibility for any bicycles or other methods of transportation.

 

Prohibited Items

The following articles will be considered inappropriate and not allowed to be used inside of the school building:

—Roller blades and/or skateboards (Please see section above)

—Scooters (Please see section above)

—Bicycles (Please see section above)

—Segways

—Hoverboards

—Laser Pointers, which are considered dangerous weapons and will be confiscated permanently

—Dangerous Weapons

—Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drugs as defined under G. L. c. 94C

Lighters and matches

Electronic cigarettes, vaporizers 

Firearms

Firecrackers

 

Any student in possession of the stated articles, not including dangerous weapons, alcohol, tobacco, or drugs, will have the following occur:

 

FIRST TIME – Said article will be taken from a student and may be picked up after school. SECOND TIME – Said article will be taken from student and returned to parents/caregivers only.

 

Dangerous weapons, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs will be confiscated and disposed of, or provided to law enforcement. The student will also face disciplinary consequences and their actions may be referred to law enforcement n and parents/caregivers.

 

 

Cell Phone Policy 

 

Malden Public Schools cell phone privileges for PreK-Grade 8 students and Grades 9-12 students are as follows:

 

Grades: PreK-8

The use of electronic devices such as cell phones, earbuds, and headphones in classrooms is strictly prohibited. All such devices should be placed in teacher-designated areas.

 

Though teachers have much latitude around cell phones in class, it should not be used as the primary media for school work; students should have and use a chromebook or computer.

 

Grades: 9- 12

The use of electronic devices such as cell phones, earbuds, and headphones in classrooms is strictly prohibited. All such devices should be AWAY/OUT OF SIGHT (i.e., in backpacks or teacher-designated areas). “Use” includes texting, social media, checking email, and having the cell phone face down on the desk. The only time it is acceptable to use an electronic device (cell phone, headphones, etc) is with EXPLICIT permission from teachers. In this case, the use of a cell phone is written into the lesson plan.

 

Grades PreK-12

Consequences for Violating Cell Phone Policy

If students violate the school’s cell phone policy, the following may occur:

 

First offense: The student’s cell phone will be confiscated by their Assistant /House Principal or designated faculty member and held until the end of the school day before the student can pick it up. Their teacher will notify their parent/caregiver of the incident and explain the cell phone policy.

 

Second offense: The student’s cell phone will be confiscated and held in the Assistant/House Principal’s office until the end of the school day. The student’s parents/caregivers will be contacted and informed that they must pick up the cell phone. 

 

Third offense: The student’s cell phone will be confiscated and held in the Assistant/House Principal’s office until the student’s parents/caregivers are able to come to pick it up. The cell phone must remain at home for a period of 4 weeks. If the student is observed with the phone during this period, the phone will need to remain home for the remainder of the academic school year and a suspension hearing will be held with the House Principal. 

 

*MPS is not liable or responsible for lost, stolen or damaged cell phones or other devices. MPS will not investigate any loss, theft, or damage, therefore students are strongly advised to store their devices in their lockers, in their bags, or at home.

 

**The MPS administration reserves the right to adjust these consequences on a case-by-case basis if needed. For example, extreme behaviors that break the law or engage in cyber bullying or harassment of other students may result in suspension and/phone privilege revocation.

 

 

 

Student Lockers

Schools assign lockers or cubby spaces to each student to store their school supplies and personal belongings. It is important for parents/caregivers and students to understand that lockers remain the property of the Malden Public Schools while students are using them. School staff have the right to search lockers and any personal items inside the locker (such as coat pockets). 

 

School staff inspect all lockers at least once a year for general clean-up. They also inspect lockers when they suspect a safety or security problem. Any illegal, prohibited, or potentially dangerous items, or evidence of a crime found during a locker search will be given to the appropriate authorities.

 

Each school has different locker procedures on how they assign lockers to students.

Locker Searches

Students’ personal belongings, desks, lockers, and vehicles may be subject to search by school personnel when school administrators have reasonable grounds to believe that a search will reveal evidence that a student has violated the law and/or the school rules. Ordinarily, searches will be conducted by a member of the school administration in the presence of another adult. As soon as is practicable after the conclusion of a search, the parents/guardians of the student will be notified. Similarly, if a search uncovers objects prohibited by school rules, or which may be otherwise disruptive to the educational environment, these objects may be retained by school officials and returned later to the student or his/her parents/guardians. Searches may include the use of canines.

Search Procedures

 1. It is prohibited to store any illegal items/substances in violation of any school rule in a locker. Items/substances prohibited from being in lockers include: guns, knives, weapons (real or fake), illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, fireworks, explosives, fire/smoke/odor producing products, and any other article not permitted in school.

 

2. At the discretion of a School Administrator, a student’s locker, backpack, and personal belongings may be searched when there is reasonable grounds to believe that prohibited items/substances may be found and when the student is on school grounds, or at a school-sponsored or school-related event. Should prohibited items/substances be found, they will be seized.

 

3. A search of a student’s belongings will be performed and seizure of prohibited items/substances discovered in the course of such a search will occur only if there exist reasonable grounds for suspecting that the student has violated, or is violating, either the law or the rules of the school. The search will be conducted in a manner reasonably related to its objectives, and will not be excessively intrusive in light of the age and the gender of the student and the nature of the infraction.

 

4. When possible within reason, a search of a student will be made in the presence of a School Administrator accompanied by another adult.

 

5. When possible within reason, a search of a student’s automobile parked on school grounds will be in the presence of the student(s) whose conduct is under scrutiny and in the presence of a school official.

 

6. Should a search reveal objects or substances, the possession of which may give rise to a crime, notice will be given to the police. In the event of the questioning, custody or arrest of students by law enforcement officials, the school Principal, or his/her designee, will be present when possible. The Principal will request that all procedural safeguards are observed and that parents are notified.

Vandalism Policy

The School Committee recognizes that acts of vandalism committed against public and private property are costly and require positive action through educational programs. Consequently, the Committee will support various programs aimed at reducing the amount of vandalism.

The School Committee expects that all individuals who use and enter Malden Public Schools buildings and premises will respect, appreciate and value the work that staff do every single day to keep buildings/premises safe and welcoming for the students, staff, and the community.

 

Every citizen of the city, staff members, students, and members of the police department are urged by the School Committee to cooperate in reporting any incidents of vandalism to property under control of the school department, and the name(s) of the person or persons believed to be responsible. Each employee will report to the Principal of the school every incident of vandalism known to them and, if known, the names of those responsible.

 

The Superintendent is authorized to sign a criminal complaint and to press the charges against perpetrators of vandalism against school property, and is further authorized to delegate, as they see fit, authority to sign such complaints and to press charges.

Parents/guardians and students will be made aware of the legal implications involved. Reimbursement will be sought for all or part of any damages.

Definition

Vandalism is defined as the willful or malicious destruction or damaging of private or public property in a manner that defaces, mars, or otherwise adds a physical blemish that diminishes the property's value. Vandalism includes graffiti, and defacing and/or destroying school equipment, buildings, or property in any way (classrooms, offices, shared areas, playgrounds, etc). Graffiti that includes hate speech or hate symbols can be considered a hate crime.

 

Vandalism includes willful damage to district technology including electronic hardware and software. Vandalism includes unauthorized modifications, installing or removing programs, tampering with restricted files, changing settings on any computer or technology resource that should only be changed by an administrator.

 

The Malden Public Schools assigns a laptop to each student in grades 1-12. Each laptop must be returned to the school at the end of the school year in good working condition within the usual usage period. If a laptop or any other electronic devices assigned to the student is vandalized or intentionally damaged, parents/caregivers will incur a financial penalty to cover the full cost of replacement. The district does not have insurance or the means to replace or cover the technology damage. 

Hazing

All students should understand that hazing, defined as any conduct or behavior, which willfully, or 

recklessly, endangers the physical or mental health of any student or person, is a crime (See Appendix: pp. I, M.G.L. Chapter 269). Thus, hazing, or any behavior which can be construed to have the effect of hazing is prohibited while students are on school grounds, or at school-sponsored or school-related events. Those having knowledge of such behavior are required to inform a teacher, or other school official, of it.

Bullying Prevention and Intervention

The Malden Public Schools prohibits all forms of bullying in school or at school-sponsored events/activities, whether on or off campus. All forms of bullying at school will be subject to disciplinary actions, which may include suspension. Off campus bullying which causes a disruption within the school setting may be grounds for disciplinary action. Relevant sections of the law (M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O) are described below.

Definitions

• Perpetrator is a student or member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor or an extracurricular activity or para- professional who engages in bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation.
• Bullying is the repeated use by one or more students or member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor of an extracurricular activity or ESP of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a target that: 
  • causes physical or emotional harm to the target or damage to the target’s property; 
  • places the target in reasonable fear of harm to himself/herself or of damage to his/her property;
  • creates a hostile environment at school for the target; 
  • infringes on the rights of the target at school; or
  • materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. Bullying includes cyberbullying.
• Cyberbullying is bullying through the use of technology or any electronic devices such as telephones, cell phones, computers, and the Internet. It includes, but is not limited to, email, instant messages, text messages, and Internet postings.
• Hostile environment is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the student’s education.
• Target is a student against whom bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation has been perpetrated.
• Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a student who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying.

Prohibition Against Bullying

Bullying is prohibited:

• on school grounds,
• property immediately adjacent to school grounds,
• at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function, or program whether on or off school grounds,
• at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased, or used by a school district or school,
• through the use of technology or an electronic device that is owned, leased, or used by a school district or school (for example on a computer or over the Internet),
• at any program or location that is not school-related, or through the use of personal technology or electronic devices, if the bullying creates a hostile environment at school, or material and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
• Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying is prohibited.

Reporting Bullying

Anyone, including a parent or guardian, student, or school staff member, can report bullying or retaliation. Reports can be made in writing or orally to the Principal or another staff member, or reports may be made anonymously.

 

School staff members must report immediately to the Principal or his/her designee if they witness or become aware of bullying or retaliation. Staff members include, but are nESPot limited to, educators, administrators, counselors, school nurses, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, athletic coaches, advisors to an extracurricular activity or ESP. Principals will investigate reports of bullying in accordance with Malden Public Schools Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan.

Student Record Regulations & FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that provides two basic rights to parents in regards to student records:

1. The right to inspect and review their child’s education records
2. The right to prevent unauthorized persons from seeing the same records

The Commonwealth’s student record regulations (603 CMR 23.00) are designed to ensure parents and students of confidentiality, inspection, amendment, and destruction of student records, and to assist school authorities in carrying out their responsibilities under state and federal law.

To request records, please send a written request to your child’s school and/or to the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, 110 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA and can be reached at 781-397-7245

Description 

Student records consist of all information kept by the school and organized in a manner such that a student may be individually identified. Student records include both the Permanent Record (transcript) and a Temporary Record. The transcript shall contain the minimum data necessary to reflect a student’s educational progress. This data shall be limited to the student’s name, address and phone number; birth date; the name, address, and phone number of parent/guardian; course titles, grades (or the equivalent when grades are not applicable), course credit, grade level completed, and the year completed. A Temporary Record contains the majority of a student’s information maintained by the school. This record may include information such as standardized test results, MCAS scores, extracurricular activities, and evaluations by teachers, counselors or other school staff.

Destruction of Records 

Following a student’s withdrawal, transfer, or graduation from MHS, the only document that will be kept on file in the Guidance Office will be the Transcript/ Permanent Record, which must be kept by the school system for at least sixty (60) years after students leave the system. Upon withdrawal, transfer, or graduation from MHS, students will be given notice at that time of their right to obtain their Temporary Record and that, should a student not obtain it, it will be destroyed by a specified date (which by law must be within seven (7) years of withdrawal, transfer, or graduation). Since there may be some information contained within the folder, such as a student’s Health Record, which may be of value in the future, it is suggested that students obtain their Temporary Record and make and keep duplicate copies. If a student received any special education services while at MHS, they may obtain those parts of their Temporary Record from the special education office.

Access by Parents and Students

A parent with physical custody of a student under 18 years of age or a student who has entered the ninth grade or is at least 14 years old (“eligible student”), has the right to inspect and/or copy all portions of the student record upon request. The record must be made available to the parent or eligible student no later than ten days after the request, unless the parent or eligible student consents to a delay or unless the request is made by a non-custodial parent. A reasonable fee may be charged for the cost of copying the record. The parent and eligible student also have the right to amend the student record or to request deletion of certain information. Instruction on how to do this may be obtained from the Registrar’s office. The parent and eligible student may also request to have parts of the record interpreted by qualified school personnel or may have the student record inspected or interpreted by a third party of their choice. Such third party shall present specific written consent of the eligible student or parent, prior to gaining access to the student record

Access Procedures for Non-Custodial Parents 

State law mandates standard procedures for making student records available to a non-custodial parent. Under M.G.L., Chapter 71, Section 34H, a non-custodial parent is one who does not have physical custody of their child. Such parents must submit a written request to the school principal annually in order to obtain a copy and/or access to their child’s record. For more information about making this type of request, contact the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services located at 110 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA, 781-397-7245

Access by Third Parties

With a few exceptions, information in a student’s record will not be released to a third party without the written consent of the eligible student and/or a parent having physical custody of a student under 18 years of age. These exceptions are set forth in the federal statute “FERPA”, 20 U.S.C., § 1232g and 34 CFR Part 99, and in the Massachusetts regulations, 603 CMR 23.00. In addition, the following information will be released as a routine matter unless a student or parent follows the objection process set forth at the end of this section.

• Directory Information: A student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, weight and height of members of athletic teams, class, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, degrees, honors and awards, and post high school plans.
• Recruiting information for the Armed Forces and Post-Secondary Educational Institutions: Upon request from military recruiters and/or representatives of post-secondary educational institutions, the Malden Public Schools will provide the name, address and telephone listing for all secondary students. If an eligible student and/or parent does not want Directory Information or Recruiting Information released, they must notify the MPS Welcome Center in writing no later than September 15 of the year in which they first enroll in MHS. Otherwise, said information will be released. A written objection received in accordance with this procedure shall be treated as continuing in effect during a student’s enrollment in MHS until and unless the eligible student and/or parent notifies the Welcome Center in writing that the objection to release is removed.

Amendments to Records

The eligible student and their parent, or either one, has the right to add information or other relevant material to the record. They also have the right to request the deletion or amendment of any information in the record. The school Principal or their designee is required to make a decision regarding such a request which may be appealed first to the Superintendent and then to the School Committee.

Filing a Complaint

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the [School] to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Student Privacy Policy Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MBTA Student “Charlie Card”

The MBTA provides students 12 years of age with Charlie Cards (allowing students a discount) at the beginning of the school year. Students can get cards in the schools’ Main Office. Students put their own money on the cards.

 

Pick-up/Drop-off Procedures

First drop off can be done once entering school grounds, please have students exit the right side of your vehicle closest to the sidewalk. Do not wait until your student enters school.

 

Please drop off student and move your vehicle without blocking other cars

 

During pick up please do not double park, block the pickup area, or leave your vehicle unattended. Please contact your student before pick up to make sure your student is going to be waiting for you at the pick up area. Please ask your student to enter the vehicle on the right side of the vehicle.

 

Please refrain from parking in or blocking the handicapped parking spots. Those spots are for those that have handicapped placards or license plates. They must be respected. 

Please do not park or block any access points that need to be open for emergency vehicles, Fire Trucks, Ambulances, and Police need to be able to respond to emergencies in a timely manner.
 

Please do not block other cars in, or leave vehicles unattended blocking others in.
 

Please do not leave cars idling on school property.

Please remain patient during drop off and pick up, we have a lot of vehicles accessing a small area.
 

Please do not use your horn around the school, we have many students that are sensitive to loud noise and it’s not polite.
 

Student IDs

All MHS students are issued an ID. IDs are required to purchase a school lunch. Replacements are $5.00.

 

 

 

Non-Discrimination

The Malden Public Schools has a commitment to maintaining an educational environment where bigotry and intolerance, including discrimination and/or harassment is prohibited on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, age, ancestry, veteran status, genetic information, limited speaking ability, homelessness or any other class protected by the state or federal law in its educational programs, activities or employment policies . Discrimination, including harassment, is contrary to the mission of the Malden Public Schools and its commitment to equal opportunity in education.

 

It will be a violation for any student, district employee or third party based on a student’s, employee’s or third party’s actual or perceived protected class status to: (1) harass a student, district employee or third party through conduct or communication (e.g., physical, verbal, graphic or written) or to (2) inflict, threaten to inflict or attempt to inflict violence; or to (3) discriminate against a student, District employee or third party.

 

This policy applies to all of the academic and nonacademic (for example, athletic and extracurricular) programs of the district and will be enforced before, during, or after school hours on all school property, including the school bus, school functions, or events held at other locations. The policy also applies to any off-campus conduct that causes or threatens to cause a substantial and material disruption at school, or interferes with the rights of students, employees or third parties to be free from a hostile school environment, taking into consideration the totality of the circumstances on and off campus. Any retaliation against an individual who has complained about discrimination, including harassment, or any retaliation against any individual who has cooperated with an investigation of a discrimination, harassment or retaliation complaint, is also unlawful and will not be tolerated.

 

The Malden Public Schools takes allegations of discrimination, including harassment, seriously and will respond promptly to complaints that are known or reasonably should be known by the Malden Public Schools. Where it is determined that conduct that violates the law and this policy has occurred, the Malden Public Schools will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and will impose corrective action as necessary, including disciplinary action where appropriate, which may include school-related discipline.

Student Complaints

Malden Public Schools expects that if a student has a problem, request, or grievance, he/she will refer it directly to a teacher, guidance counselor, assistant principal, principal, or other trusted adult depending on the nature of the issue.

 

Complaints : Reporting Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment

If any Malden Public Schools student, parent/caregivers, visitor or employee believes, in good faith, that he or she has been subjected to any other form of harassment or discrimination described above or who has witnessed or learns about the harassment or discrimination of another person in the school environment has a right to file a complaint with the Malden Public Schools. This may be done informally or formally 

 

Teachers or other staff members who observe or receive reports of incidents of harassment or discrimination involving students shall report such incidents immediately to the student's Principal. Delays between the date of the alleged incident and the reporting date may make investigations more difficult. Individuals aware of harassment or discrimination involving any employee or if a Principal is the person alleged to be engaged in the discrimination/harassment shall report such incidents to the Civil Rights Coordinator, listed below, or to the Superintendent.

 

Please note that while these procedures relate to the Malden Public Schools' policy of promoting an educational setting free from discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment, as detailed further in this policy, these procedures are not designed nor intended to limit the Malden Public Schools' authority to discipline or take remedial action for conduct which the Malden Public Schools deems unacceptable.

 

District Contact

District Civil Rights Coordinator for Title VI (race, color, national origin); Title IX (sex); Section 504 (disability); Title II of the ADA (disability); Religion, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Age is: Assistant Superintendent of Student Services. The Assistant Superintendent of Student Service is located at 110 Pleasant Street, Malden, Ma and can be reached at 781-397-7245.

Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedures

Where to File a Complaint

Any Malden Public School student, employee, or third party who believes that a Malden Public School student, employee, or third party has discriminated against or harassed them because of their race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its services, programs, or activities may file a complaint with the Office of Human Resources.

Contents of Complaints & Timeline for Filing

Complaints under this procedure must be filed within twenty (20) days of the alleged discrimination or harassment. Complaints filed after this 20 day period will be accepted, however, the investigation may be impacted due to the passage of time. Complaints may be submitted orally or in writing. The complainant may select another person to help with the filing of the complaint. Any responsible employee who receives an oral complaint will memorialize the allegations in writing and forward the written allegations to the Office of the Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee by the following school day. The written complaint should include the following information:

1. The name and grade level (or address and telephone number if not a student or employee) of the complainant;

2. The name (and address and telephone number if not a student or employee) of the complainant’s representative, if any;

3. The name(s) of the person(s) alleged to have committed or caused the discriminatory or harassing action, or event (respondent);

4. A description, in as much detail as possible, of the alleged discrimination or harassment;

5. The date(s), time(s), and location(s) of the alleged discrimination or harassment;

6. The names of all persons who have knowledge about the alleged discrimination or harassment (witnesses) as can be reasonably determined; and

7. A description, in as much detail as possible, of how the complainant wishes to see the matter resolved.

Investigations & Resolution of the Complaint

Complaints will be investigated promptly and resolved as quickly as possible. Due process procedures apply to issues of identification, evaluation, and placement under Section 504. Any person who alleges discrimination on the basis of a disability relative to the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a person, who because of a disability is believed to need regular or special instruction and related aids or services, pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Massachusetts General Law chapter 71B, and/or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act may use the procedure outlined in the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Parents’ Rights Brochure, rather than this procedure. Information on this alternative process may be obtained from the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.

The Discrimination/Harassment Complaint Procedure applies to issues of disability discrimination and harassment. Respondents will be informed of the charges as soon as the grievance officer deems appropriate based upon the nature of the allegations, the investigation required, and the action contemplated, and in no case later than fifteen (15) school days following receipt of the complaint. The grievance officer will interview witnesses who are deemed to be necessary and appropriate to determine the facts relevant to the complaint, and will gather other pertinent information. Interviews of students will be conducted in such a way as to reflect the age and emotional condition of the student. The complainant(s) and respondent(s) shall have an equal opportunity to present witnesses and other evidence. Such interviews and gathering of information will be completed within fifteen (15) school days of the receipt of the complaint.

 

Within twenty (20) school days of receiving the complaint, the grievance officer will meet with the complainant and/or his/her representative and the respondent and/or his/her representative to review information gathered and, if appropriate, to propose a resolution designed to stop the discrimination or harassment, prevent its recurrence and to correct its effect.

 

Within ten (10) school days of meeting with the complainant and/or his/her representative and the respondent and/or his/her representative, the grievance officer will provide written disposition of the complaint to the complainant and/or his/her representative and to the respondent(s) and/or his/her representative, including a statement regarding whether the complaint was found to be credible and whether discrimination was found to have occurred. Where the grievance officer finds that discrimination has occurred, Malden Public Schools will take steps that are reasonably calculated to end discrimination that has been found; prevent recurrence of any discrimination, and correct its discriminatory effects on the complainant and others, if appropriate. The grievance officer will contact the complainant within 10 school days following conclusion of the investigation to assess whether there has been on-going discrimination or retaliation, and to determine whether additional supportive measures are needed. If the grievance officer determines that additional supportive measures are needed, he or she shall offer such measures to the complainant within fifteen school days following conclusion of the investigation.

 

Notwithstanding the above, it is understood that in the event a resolution contemplated by the grievance officer involves disciplinary action against an individual, the complainant will not be informed of such disciplinary action, unless it directly involves the complainant (e.g., a directive to “stay away” from the complainant, as might occur as a result of a complaint of harassment). Any disciplinary action imposed upon an individual will be subject to applicable procedural requirements. All the timelines indicated above will be implemented as specified, unless the nature of the investigation or exigent circumstances prevent such implementation in which case the matter will be completed as quickly as practicable. If the timelines specified above are not met, the reason(s) for not meeting them must be clearly documented. 

 

Confidentiality of complainants/respondents and witnesses will be maintained, to the extent consistent with the obligations of the Malden Public Schools relating to the investigation of complaints and the due process rights of individuals affected. 

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation against someone because they have filed a complaint under this procedure is strictly forbidden. Retaliation against someone who has participated in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Malden Public Schools will take appropriate steps as necessary to prevent retaliation. Acts of retaliation may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion/discharge.

 

Upon request, the grievance officer will provide the complainant with the names and addresses of those state and federal agencies which handle discrimination and harassment matters.

 

 

 

Title IX Notice & Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedures

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 states: No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. 20 USC §1681.

 

Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is unlawful sex discrimination. As required by Title IX and in compliance with Title IX, the Malden Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its education programs or activities including in its admission or employment practices. Inquiries regarding the application of Title IX to the Malden Public Schools education program and activities are directed to the Title IX Coordinator. 

 

The following conduct constitutes sexual harassment:

• A school employee conditioning an educational benefit or service upon a person’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (often called “quid pro quo” harassment);
• Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the school’s education program or activity; or
• Sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking (as those offenses are defined in the Clery Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1092(f), and the Violence Against Women Act, 34 U.S.C. § 12291(a)).

How to Report Sex Discrimination, including Sexual Harassment

Any person may report sex discrimination, including sexual harassment in person, by mail, by telephone, or by electronic mail, to the Title IX Coordinator, or by any other means that results in the Title IX Coordinator receiving the person's verbal or written report. Reports may be made at any time by using the telephone number or electronic mail address, or by mail to the office address, listed for the Title IX Coordinator.

Pamela MacDonald, Title IX Coordinator

Assistant Superintendent for Student Services

Malden Public Schools

110 Pleasant Street

Malden, MA

781-397-7245 or pmacdonald@maldenps.org 

How to File a Formal Complaint for Sexual Harassment

• A complainant may file a formal complaint with the Title IX Coordinator by mail, email, telephone or in person. The Title IX Coordinator may also initiate a formal complaint.
• Complainant means an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.
• Respondent means an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.
• Formal complaint means a document filed by a complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging sexual harassment against a respondent and requesting that Malden Public Schools investigate the allegation. 

How MPS will Respond to a Complaint

The Title IX Coordinator will promptly contact the complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures.

 

Supportive measures means non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the complainant or the respondent. Supportive measures are offered whether or not the complainant files a formal complaint and are designed to restore or preserve equal access to the education program or activity without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or the educational environment, or deter sexual harassment. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of supportive measures.

 

The Title IX Coordinator will consider the complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive measures, inform the complainant of the availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a formal complaint, and explain to the complainant the process for filing a formal complaint. The Title IX Coordinator must treat complainants and respondents equitably and offer supportive measures to the complainant and respondent. 

 

The Malden Public Schools may remove a respondent from school or an activity on an emergency basis, provided that an individualized safety and risk analysis determines that there is an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual. Respondents removed on an emergency basis will receive notice and an opportunity to challenge the decision immediately following the removal. 

 

This provision may not modify any rights for students with disabilities.

Complaint Process

In response to a formal complaint, Malden Public Schools will adhere to the following grievance process.

1. Written Notice: Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will provide written notice to the parties who are known. The written notice shall include:
   1. Notice of the complaint process, including notice of informal resolution process;
   2. Notice of the allegations that includes sufficient details known at the time and with sufficient time to prepare a response before any initial interview;
   3. Notice that the respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process.
   4. Notice that the parties may have an advisor of their choice and may inspect and review evidence; and
   5. Notice that the Malden Public Schools code of conduct prohibits knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process.

If any new allegations arise during the grievance process, the Title IX Coordinator will provide written notice of the additional allegations to the parties whose identities are known.

2. Investigation: The Malden Public Schools will investigate the allegations in the formal complaint. MPS will use trained personnel to objectively evaluate all relevant evidence without prejudgment of the facts at issue and free from conflicts of interest or bias for or against either party.
   1. The MPS may dismiss the formal complaint if: 
      • The conduct alleged would not constitute sexual harassment even if proved, did not occur in a Malden Public Schools’ education program or activity, or did not occur in the United States.
      • The complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the complainant would like to withdraw the formal complaint of any of the allegations in the formal complaint, or if the respondent is no longer enrolled or employed by the MPS; or specific circumstances prevent the recipient from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination as to the formal complaint.
   2. Upon a dismissal, the Title IX Coordinator will promptly send written notice for the dismissal and reason(s) therefore simultaneously to the parties.
   3. When investigating a formal complaint and throughout the grievance process, the MPS will:
      • Apply a presumption of innocence, and ensure that the burden of proof and the burden of gathering evidence rests on the MPS and not on the parties;
      • Provide an equal opportunity for the parties to present witnesses, including fact and expert witnesses, and other inculpatory and exculpatory evidence;
      • Not restrict the ability of either party to discuss the allegations under investigation or to gather and present relevant evidence;
      • Protect parties’ privacy by requiring a party’s written consent before using the party’s medical, psychological or similar treatment records during the grievance process;
      • Provide the parties with the same opportunities to have others present during any grievance proceeding, including the opportunity to be accompanied to any related meeting or proceeding by the advisor of their choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney;
      • Provide, to a party whose participation is invited or expected, written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all hearings, investigative interviews, or other meetings, with sufficient time for the party to prepare to participate;
      • Provide both parties an equal opportunity to inspect and review any evidence obtained as part of the investigation that is directly related to the allegations raised in a formal complaint;
      • Prior to the completion of an investigative report, send to each party and the party's advisor the evidence subject to inspection and review and provide the parties at least 10 days to submit a written response, which the investigator will consider prior to completion of the investigative report.
      • Create an investigative report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence for their review and written response.

The investigator shall strive to complete investigations within thirty (30) school days of the filing of the formal complaint. Although the District's goal is to complete investigations generally within thirty (30) school days, the time may be extended for good cause upon written notice to the complainant and respondent. Additionally, the timeline for investigation may be suspended during any informal resolution procedure or meeting. 

3. Determination regarding responsibility: The decision-maker, who shall not be the investigator or the Title IX Coordinator, will provide each party the opportunity to submit written, relevant questions that a party wants asked of any party or witness, provide each party with the answers, and allow for additional, limited follow-up questions from each party. Complainants may not be asked inappropriate questions about prior sexual history. The decision-maker(s) must explain to the party proposing the questions any decision to exclude a question as not relevant.

• The decision-maker must issue a written determination regarding responsibility. To reach this determination, the decision maker shall apply a preponderance of the evidence standard. Preponderance of the evidence means that it is more likely than not that the alleged conduct occurred.
• The decision maker shall review all of the evidence and issue a written determination within fifteen (15) school days of receipt of the matter from the investigator, absent extenuating circumstances. 
• The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for effective implementation of any remedies.

4. Appeals: Either party may appeal the determination regarding responsibility (or from a dismissal) on the following grounds:

• Procedural irregularity that affected the outcome of the matter;
• New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination regarding responsibility or dismissal was made, that could affect the outcome of the matter; and
•  The Title IX Coordinator, investigator(s), or decision-maker(s) had a conflict of interest or bias for or against the complainant or respondents generally or individually that affected the outcome of the matter.
• Appeals must be submitted to the Title IX Coordinator within five (5) school days of receipt of the written determination and contain a written statement in support or challenge of the outcome. In the event of an appeal, the Title IX Coordinator will notify the other party in writing when an appeal is filed and implement appeal procedures equally for both parties.

5. Informal Resolution: An informal resolution process is available when a formal complaint is filed. Informal resolution process is available without a full investigation and nothing in the informal process shall preclude the parties from resuming a formal complaint process. Participation is voluntary and written consent is required. An informal resolution process is not permitted to resolve allegations that an employee sexually harassed a student.

 

6. Record Keeping: The Malden Public Schools will maintain records regarding sexual harassment reports and complaints for a period of seven years.

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation is prohibited against any individual, including complainants, respondents, and witnesses for reporting sexual harassment, participating (or refusing to participate) in any investigation/grievance process. Individuals may report retaliation to the Title IX Coordinator who will investigate and take measures to protect individuals from retaliation.

Complaints of Discrimination and/or Harassment on the basis of sex may also be reported to:

The Office for Civil Rights, US Department of Education

5 Post Office Square, 8^th Floor

Boston, MA 02109-3921

Telephone: 617-289-0111, FAX: 617-289-0150

Electronic Mail: OCR.Boston@ed.gov