Visitors :: School Cancellation :: Field Trips :: Insurance :: School Breakfast / Lunch :: Dress and Appearance :: School Lockers :: Fire Drills / Alarms
Grading :: Driving Privilege :: Student Support Services :: Home School Compact :: Embedded Academics :: Student Assessment :: Credit Award
Tech & Prep Career Academies :: Career Prep and Placement :: Activities and Honors :: Health Services and Medications :: General Conduct
Off Site and Bus Conduct :: Program Conduct :: Corridor and Waiting Area Conduct :: Conduct on School Grounds :: Cafeteria Conduct
Weapons, Gambling, and Electronic Instruments :: Safety Rules :: Fighting, Harrassment and/or Threats :: Profanity :: Referrals / Misconduct
Major Misconducts :: Suspension / Expulsion :: Discrimination / Harassment :: Smoking and Tobacco Use :: Drug and Alcohol Policy
Acceptable and Computer Internet Use :: Attendance Policy :: Tardiness :: Truancy / Class Cut

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MISSION AND GOALS
The Mission of the River Valley Technical Center is to educate today's students for tomorrow's careers and for all students to
• Demonstrate the skills, knowledge and character necessary to become productive workers and life-long learners.
• Participate in a positive environment that integrates academic and technical education through applied learning.
• Benefit from teachers’ professional growth and continuous improvement of curricula that emphasizes the changing workplace and the pursuit of educational excellence.
• Have the opportunity to attain nationally recognized industry credentials or certifications through the completion of courses and programs.
• Demonstrate a sense of pride and ownership in their school and community.
• Have the opportunity to explore various career areas and to participate in workplace experiences.

VISITORS :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center welcomes visitors to tour the Center or visit a specific program. All visits to program areas must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance to assure the program will be operating on site and to confirm space availability to accommodate a visit. Please contact the Technical Center Office for details or to arrange a visit.

SCHOOL CANCELLATION :: BACK TO TOP
Classes at the Technical Center may be canceled due to weather conditions. Please listen to local radio stations to determine if the Technical Center is in session on days of questionable weather.

FIELD TRIPS :: BACK TO TOP
Field trips are valuable and important activities. If a trip is planned that requires the student to miss a class, teachers of those classes must give their permission for the student to participate in the trip. Positive attendance in academic classes is essential if a student wishes to participate in a Technical Center field trip. Permission from a parent/guardian is required for out of town trips. Forms are available from instructors and in the Tech Center Office.

INSURANCE :: BACK TO TOP
Each individual student is responsible for obtaining accident insurance. The Center is insured only against negligence in case of injury. Medical insurance can be obtained through your high school at a very reasonable cost. You are encouraged to take advantage of that opportunity.

SCHOOL BREAKFAST / LUNCH :: BACK TO TOP
Students enrolled at the Technical Center may utilize the cafeteria services of Springfield High School. Students are expected to maintain the same positive behaviors as in all technical program areas.

DRESS AND APPEARANCE :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center at Springfield expects students and staff to model appropriate dress and appearance of the workplace. In addition to meeting the safety requirements of each program, student attire shall not detract from the educational process and appearance will reflect personal cleanliness, neatness and hygiene consistent with the expectations of parents and school authorities.
Shorts are permissible with instructor approval, but must meet the following guidelines: 1) no cutoff jeans, pants, or spandex shorts; 2) no holes in the shorts; 3) shorts must have at least a five inch inseam. Bare midriffs, obscene, offensive (or suggestive) clothing, or any item of clothing with a logo or illustration of drugs or alcohol will not be allowed. Many programs require professional attire, purchased by the Center, to be worn during class time. Students dressed inappropriately will be asked to change; repeat offenses will result in a referral for disciplinary action.

SCHOOL LOCKERS :: BACK TO TOP
If a student requires a locker, one may be assigned. Students are to use only the locker assigned to them and must keep it locked at all times. Money and other valuables should not be left in any locker. Please be advised that the student is personally responsible for the contents of their locker. Do not share your combination with others for any reason. As lockers are the property of the Technical Center, school officials may open a locker at any time.

FIRE DRILLS / ALARMS :: BACK TO TOP
Directions for exiting classroom and lab areas in case of fire are posted in each classroom/lab area. It is necessary to exit immediately during a fire alarm. Students must remain with their class and follow the direction of their instructor during a fire drill.

GRADING :: BACK TO TOP
Students receive grades each trimester that represent skill development, daily performance, homework, attendance, quiz and test grades, as well as other skills necessary in their area of study. Progress reports will be mailed, normally mid-trimester. Parents may request a conference at any time.Grading policy may vary by program and is established by individual instructors.

DRIVING PRIVILEGE :: BACK TO TOP
Out of town students must obtain written permission from their home school principal in order to drive to the Center. Student drivers may park only in the student parking lot and require a parking permit, available in the Technical Center Office.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center Support Specialist is available to assist students who need help to succeed in programs. Students are encouraged to utilize the Information Center and the Student Support Lab for tutorial assistance and extra help as needed.

HOME SCHOOL COMPACT :: BACK TO TOP
The staff, students and parents/guardians of the Springfield Schools agree to share the responsibility for establishing high expectations and preparing children to achieve high academic standards. Student success is dependent upon the strength of this partnership and the shared commitment between school and home. The following expectations have been established to promote the social, emotional and academic growth of all children. (Please see your student handbook for details.)

EMBEDDED ACADEMICS :: BACK TO TOP
In addition to the skills learned in program areas, the Technical Center at Springfield provides applied learning as part of its curriculum. We encourage all students to enroll in a challenging course of studies at their home school. All program completers may be eligible for embedded academic credit specific to their program area of study. See your guidance counselor or the Technical Center Guidance Coordinator for more details.

STUDENT ASSESSMENT :: BACK TO TOP
As part of its service to students, the Technical Center at Springfield will conduct a variety of student assessments that will measure both academic and technical skills. Assessments will be utilized to assist the student in planning for post-secondary education and/or training, apprenticeship and career opportunities.

CREDIT AWARD :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center at Springfield will recommend to high schools the credit to be awarded based on the students performance, attendance and completion of program competencies.

TECH AND PREP CAREER ACADEMIES :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center at Springfield has embarked on an exciting initiative called Tech Prep. While enrolled at the Technical Center, students can earn college credit from a variety of colleges in their area of study. An extension of our Tech Prep program is the addition of several Career Academies to our course of studies. Students enrolled in our academies will be enrolled in an all day program that integrates Mathematics, Science, English, Social Studies and Technical Education courses. Material learned will be specific to student career goals, and in many cases, have college credit and advanced college standing associated with enrollment. See the Guidance Coordinator for more details.

CAREER PREP AND PLACEMENT :: BACK TO TOP
The Guidance Coordinator and all instructors are available to help with scheduling, career planning and post-secondary planning. The Guidance Coordinator is available at any time to work with any individual who is having problems adjusting to school life.

ACTIVITIES & HONORS :: BACK TO TOP
Students are strongly encouraged to become actively engaged in youth groups and other extracurricular activities. Examples of Youth Groups provided include FFA (Natural Resources & Horticulture), FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America Business Education), VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America - Computer Technology, Construction Trades, Culinary Arts, Engineering Design, Fire Science, First Responder, Graphics, Law Enforcement, Manufacturing/Engineering Technology, Welding Technology), HERO (Home Economics Related Occupations - Human Services, Administrative Medical Services), DECA (Travel and Tourism) and TSA (students enrolled in the Engineering Academy). A Tech Student Council is also available and operates as a student council for the Center. Students are also encouraged to apply to the National Vocational Technical Honor Society if certain criteria are met. Additional activities (such as Challenge Course activities, camping trips, etc.) may be developed throughout the year to make your school experience fun! Ask the Guidance Coordinator or your instructor for more information.

HEALTH SERVICES & MEDICATIONS :: BACK TO TOP
Students must notify their instructor immediately and complete an incident report if injured in any way. An "Emergency Information" form will be issued on the first day of class and must be completed and returned to the Technical Center Office in order to receive Health Office services or over-the-counter medication. If a student requires medication during the school day, it will be administered in the nurse's office only. There must be a written statement from the doctor or pharmacist detailing the method of taking any prescribed drug, the dosage and time schedule to be observed. The school must also have written authorization from the parent or guardian requesting the school to assist the student when taking medication and that the school be held harmless. Each local physician's office has been supplied with the necessary forms. All medications must be delivered to school by an adult.

GENERAL CONDUCT :: BACK TO TOP
All students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible, respectful manner at all times. Serious misconduct may result in a student being suspended from the Technical Center.

OFF SITE AND BUS CONDUCT :: BACK TO TOP
Program related projects and activities often occur at a site off school grounds. The Tech Center also offers a variety of opportunities for youth group activities, conferences and workshops. These offsite experiences are an extension of the classroom. All Technical Center policies apply and appropriate behavior is expected at all times while traveling to/from and while in attendance at an off site activity.

PROGRAM CONDUCT :: BACK TO TOP
All students are expected to contribute to the safe, productive environment within program areas. Any detriment to this learning environment will not be tolerated.

CORRIDOR AND WAITING AREA CONDUCT :: BACK TO TOP
All students are expected to proceed quickly and quietly to and from program areas. Students are expected to be on time to all programs.

CONDUCT ON SCHOOL GROUNDS :: BACK TO TOP
Upon arrival, students will proceed directly to program areas or other designated waiting area. Students must have written permission from the Director, home school principal, and parent or guardian in order to leave school grounds. The student parking area is off limits during school hours.

CAFETERIA CONDUCT :: BACK TO TOP
The cafeteria is shared by students and staff of the Technical Center and Springfield High School. Students are expected to preserve a positive and healthy environment.

WEAPONS, GAMBLING, AND ELECTRONIC INSTRUMENTS :: BACK TO TOP
No weapons or gambling will be allowed in the Technical Center. The use of electronic instruments (such as walkmans, pagers, laser pointers, cell phones, video games) will not be allowed without prior permission of the Director.

SAFETY RULES :: BACK TO TOP
In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) passed by the Federal Government, and regulations recommended by the Vermont Department of Education, the following general safety rules are in effect for all Technical Center areas. There are additional rules which pertain to specific program areas that will be presented in the program area.
Rules and procedures for safe practices in technical areas are established and posted by technical program instructors and reviewed by the Director.
Violations of posted safety rules and procedures will result in disciplinary action by the technical instructor.
Violations of posted safety rules and procedures may result in immediate dismissal from the program. Due process procedures will be followed.
Examples of program specific safety rules include:
1. Goggles or protective face shields are required while operating or in the vicinity of machines being operated. This pertains to all machines or equipment being operated, not just equipment that is capable of producing chips or other particles of debris.
2. Rings and jewelry are to be removed before operating any machine or equipment.
3. Clothing must be appropriate for the task to be done. Loose sleeves, flopping ties and loose coats and jackets are NOT to be worn.
4. Long hair must be protected from entanglement in machines and equipment.
1. Hair that covers the ear lobes when hanging straight down must be held tightly to the head with a headband or with goggles that have a wrap around strap.
2. Hair that touches the tops of the shoulders must be pulled back in a ponytail and held with a headband or goggles. Long ponytails are to be tucked into the student's clothing.
5. Students shall have instruction in proper use and safety of any equipment prior to use.
6. When a machine requires maintenance, it must be properly stopped and locked prior to removal of any guard or safety devices. These guards and safety devices must be replaced immediately upon completion of maintenance and prior to resuming operation. Students shall not remove guards or other safety devices from machines at any other time.
7. Students shall know the location of fire extinguishers and fire blankets, and will be instructed as to their use.
8. Students shall be cautious of all air hoses assuring that they are never aimed toward another person.
9. Open-toed shoes, sandals and shoes with untied laces are not acceptable footwear for shop areas.
10. Students are responsible for understanding the "Right To Know" laws, blood borne pathogen concerns and cleanup procedures, and the utilization of Hazardous Material Safety Data Sheets.

FIGHTING, HARASSMENT AND / OR THREATS :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center will maintain a safe and positive learning environment for all. When a student threatens, harasses or uses violence toward an individual, the learning environment is in jeopardy. If this situation arises, it will be referred to the Director immediately, These incidents will be investigated and treated as a major misconduct.

PROFANITY :: BACK TO TOP
Profanity and obscenities are forbidden in the school or on school grounds at any time. Incidents will result in a warning to all offenders. Continued use of profanity or obscenities will be treated as a major misconduct. Profanity or obscenities directed at a staff member will result in immediate suspension.

REFERRALS / MISCONDUCT :: BACK TO TOP
If a student demonstrates difficulty in maintaining mutual respect toward others, instructors may refer that student to the Guidance Coordinator as a proactive, preventative measure to assist the student in choosing more appropriate behaviors. This referral will not be maintained as part of a permanent disciplinary record.

If a student fails to maintain a safe and positive approach to his/her learning, a "discipline referral" will be made by the instructor to the Technical Center Office. The referral will be evaluated and the Director will meet with the student. A series of options may be made available that may include:
• Teacher Detention
• Office Detention
• Teacher & Student Meeting
• Suspension
• Guidance Coordinator Conference
• Expulsion
• Parental Conference/Follow up
• Other

MAJOR MISCONDUCTS :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center has identified a series of actions that violate our mutual respect policy. Any of the following violations may result in removal from a technical program until a conference with the student and their guardian can be arranged. A second offense may result in removal from the program for the remainder of the school year. These major misconducts include:
• Violation of any Safety Policy
• Vandalism
• Alcohol, Tobacco or Drug Violation
• Fighting
• Failure to Follow an Administrative Directive
• Cheating
• Harassment
• Physical Assault
• Truancy
• Theft
• Leaving School Grounds
• Hazing
• Offensive Action toward a Staff Member
• Plagiarism
• Any other unacceptable or disruptive behavior
• Insubordination

SUSPENSION / EXPULSION :: BACK TO TOP
If a student is involved in repeated major misconducts or involved in an incident that is deemed to be inappropriate by the Director, they may be suspended or expelled. A suspension or expulsion decision may be appealed to the Director within five days of that action.

DISCRIMINATION / HARASSMENT :: BACK TO TOP
In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Higher Education Act of 1972, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Section 504, and the rules and regulations of the State of Vermont, it is the policy of the Technical Center at Springfield to not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, color, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, religion or creed in all matters related to the operation of the Center.
Sexual Harassment is a form of gender discrimination and will not be tolerated. It is behavior that includes, but is not limited to:
• Spoken or written comments or rumors of a sexual nature
• Unwelcome physical touching
• Unwelcome sexual advances
• Requests for sexual favors, etc.
• Sexual assault, rape (contact police immediately)

Such actions may interfere with a student's academic performance or create an intimidating, offensive or hostile environment. If a student has concerns, questions or believe they may have been harassed, they are encouraged to talk with a guidance counselor, the Guidance Coordinator, the Director, or any Title IX Coordinator.

A detailed policy exists which helps define discrimination and harassment. The policy explains the grievance procedure and copies of the policy may be obtained in the Director's Office at the Technical Center or the Superintendent's Office at Park Street School. If a student would like to make a claim or grievance, any of the above individuals would be able to assist in identifying the steps to follow.

SMOKING AND TOBACCO USE :: BACK TO TOP
Smoking or the use of tobacco products on school property is prohibited by Vermont law. A violation of this law will result in a three day suspension for a first offense and a five day suspension for subsequent offenses. Students found to be in possession of tobacco products or smoking related items will have these items confiscated. Those students under the age of 18 will be subject to referral to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICY :: BACK TO TOP
On September 12, 1994 the Springfield School Board established a "no tolerance" policy on the use of drugs and alcohol in the Springfield Schools. The possession or use of drugs and/or alcohol creates an extreme hazard to all individuals, not only the user, and will not be tolerated at the Technical Center.

ACCEPTABLE COMPUTER AND INTERNET USE :: BACK TO TOP
Internet access is available to the students and faculty of the Technical Center at Springfield. The intention of the Technical Center at Springfield is to make this resource available to qualified users to enhance the educational opportunities of all programs. The Technical Center believes that access to the Internet is a privilege that may be revoked if the Center's guidelines and/or pertinent laws are not followed instructors will review the details of this policy and related laws during student orientation.

Computer technology at the Center may not be used in the act(s) of plagiarism, counterfeiting, cheating or other acts that violate the laws of Vermont or the United States. Violation of these laws, Internet policies and procedures (or other related issues) will be subject to the disciplinary code of the Center and legal system of our government.

ATTENDANCE POLICY :: BACK TO TOP
The Technical Center at Springfield recognizes that attendance is a vital aspect of any program of study. Student attendance has a direct impact upon the ability to master program competencies, attain necessary employability skills and assure a safe learning environment. All students are responsible for maintaining positive attendance.

For every absence above five (5) in any trimester, the student's grade will be reduced by 3 points. Any time a student is not present during their scheduled class time it will be recorded as an absence. Individual program instructors may provide opportunities for students to acquire "additional" grade points for extracurricular assignments.

Parent/guardians will receive a student status report by mail, twice per trimester, which will indicate the number of absences to date. If a student demonstrates excessive absences, a parental conference may be required.

TARDINESS :: BACK TO TOP
Program instructors will determine specific policies within program area regarding tardiness. Arriving on time and prepared for class is an important aspect of a student's education. Please speak with the instructor for details.

TRUANCY / CLASS CUT :: BACK TO TOP
A class "cut" will be recorded when a student is present in school, is not involved in a pre-approved school activity, and does not attend a scheduled class. It is imperative to attend classes regularly. Cutting class will result in the following:
First Cut - No warning, Discipline Referral form is sent to parent/guardian, cut is recorded as an absence.
Second Cut - Removal from program, Discipline Referral sent to parent/guardian, loss of credit. Students will have five days to appeal removal from program.

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