BERKS CAREER & TECHNOLOGY CENTER

STUDENT HANDBOOK

INTRODUCTION

The broad educational program offered by the Berks Career and Technology Center is available to 
students from the following school districts:

Antietam 
Boyertown Area 
Brandywine Heights Area Hamburg Area 
Conrad Weiser Area 
Daniel Boone Area 
Exeter Township
Fleetwood Area 
Governor Mifflin
Kutztown Area 
Oley Valley
Schuylkill Valley
Tulpehocken Area
Twin Valley
Wilson
Wyomissing Area

Representatives from education, labor and industry have planned and developed this 
vocational program to supplement what is offered by the above-named school districts.
The building administration office area is centrally located within each Campus, as is the 
cafeteria, which also serves as an assembly room for general meetings of career and technology 
students, and as a meeting hall/banquet facility for the public during evening and off-school hours.
This is your school and you have reason to be proud of it. You will find the educational 
program offered here rewarding and challenging, as you prepare for your future in the world of 
work.

GENERAL INFORMATION/ SCHOOL PROCEDURES

MATH

Most students will be required to take a math course during their sophomore and junior year. 
This will assure that the student will be ready for the Tech-Prep option. If assigned a math class, 
scheduled attendance is mandatory.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

In the event that you change your legal residence, it is your responsibility to report to the 
office and complete a Change of Address Form, as soon as possible.

I. ATTENDANCE

STUDENT ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES

The goal of the Berks Career and Technology Center is to prepare students for rewarding 
careers and life long learning. The development of appropriate work habits and attitudes, including 
regular attendance, is critical for success both on the job and at the Career Center. For these reasons 
the Berks Career and Technology Center has established the following guidelines in conjunction with 
the Pennsylvania School Code and the Pennsylvania Department of Education:

1.     According to the Pennsylvania School Code, all children between the ages of 8 and 16 
        are required to attend school.

2.     The Berks Career and Technology Center requires that to receive credit for the year's 
        work, a student would have to be in attendance 169 days for a two-semester course
        and/or 84 days for a semester course. Twelve or more unexcused absences will result 
        in no credit for enrollment at Berks Career and Technology Center.

3.     If the student is absent, the following procedure will be followed:
        a.     An excuse blank, signed by the parent or guardian, needs to be returned to the 
                instructor upon the student's return to school. Failure to do this within three (3) 
                days will result in the absence being classified as unexcused and will be a 
                category B offense. After a third unlawful absence, the sending school district 
                may take legal action toward truancy and a grade of 59 will be issued for the 
                vocational course and math program.
        b. Absences in excess of three (3) consecutive days may require a doctor's excuse.

4.     Frequent absences from school disrupts the educational process. The benefits from 
        regular attendance and instruction is lost and cannot be regained; therefore, the 
        following procedure will be enforced:
        a.     When a student misses more than three (3) days during any quarterly period, a 
                student conference will be held to inform the student of the number of absences, 
                and instructors shall notify the parents through a progress report.
        b.     At ten (10) days of absences a letter will be sent home to the parents or 
                guardians. A parental conference may be scheduled.
        c.     At twelve (12) days of unexcused absences a notice will be issued, informing the 
                parent by registered mail of the student's loss of credit for a course or courses.
        d.     Absences will be recorded as unexcused, based on, but not limited to, the 
                following list of reasons:
                1)     Oversleeping 
                2)     Car trouble  
                3)     Unauthorized trips 
                4)     Unauthorized vacations 
                5)     Missing the bus 
                6)     Working before, during, or after school hours on a day of absence
                7)     Job interviews (unless authorized by the Co-op Department)

        e.     Students may not excuse themselves from school under any circumstances.
                Students, who become ill, either at their sending schools or at the Career and 
                Technology Center, must report to their school nurse. Failure to do so will result 
                in an unexcused absence and progressive disciplinary measures for "cutting" 
                school.

Excessive and unlawful absences will be referred to the sending school for action in 
compliance with official notice and prosecution procedures of the Commonwealth of 
Pennsylvania Public School Code, Section 1333 and Act 29 of 1995 (Truancy).

For each unexcused absence two (2) points are deducted from the attitude component of the 
quarter grade. Overall attendance patterns may also be reflected in the attitude component of 
the quarter grade. Three (3) unexcused absences per report period will result in a failing grade 
of 59-E, or the actual grade earned if less than 59. Students may not accumulate 12 
unexcused absences per year, or credit for the year will be lost.

EXEMPT ABSENCES FROM THIS POLICY

- Doctor's or Dentist's written excuse
- Approved Medical or Dental appointments 
- School authorized field trips or activities
- Approved educational travel
- Suspension from school
- Personal bereavement
- Approved emergency
- Illness

COOPERATIVE EMPLOYMENT GUIDELINES
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES - CAPSTONE PROGRAM

Cooperative employment during the senior year for three-year students is an integral part of 
the vocational program and the opportunities available for co-op employment will be affected by 
excessive absenteeism.

1.     The students will be paid at least the prevailing minimum wage for the time on the job. 
        The student will spend half a day at the sending school for academic subjects and the 
        other half day on the job. The students shall be legally employed a minimum of 15 
        hours a week during the school year. These hours can be other than school hours.
2.     The student's prior performance in the school program, as evidenced by attendance 
        and citizenship records must be satisfactory.
3.     Students will receive credit for their participation in the program toward graduation 
        on a basis comparable to that for their Career Center course.
4.     The student will be required to adhere to all Federal, State, and Local Child Labor 
        Laws applicable to his/her age and job category.
5.     The student will be returned to a regular Career Center schedule if his/her 
        employment is terminated or temporarily suspended.

        The Student Will:

6.    Attend co-op meetings, which will be operated in conjunction with the cooperative 
        work experience program.
7.     Maintain the best attendance record possible.
8.     Notify the employer and appropriate school office in case of absence.
9.     Work a minimum hours per school week equal to the total weekly time released from 
        school, usually 15 hours. The maximum hours per school week are limited to 28 plus 
        the number of hours released from school. The total per day is not to exceed 8 and
        40 hours per week if the student is under age 18.
10.  Report to the Career Center on non-scheduled work days, if it is a scheduled day of 
        instruction.
11.  Be suspended for work when suspended from school.
12.  Not be allowed to report for work on a day when he/she is absent from school.
13.  Be expected to be on time for work and limit breaks to the actual time allotted.

SCHOOL CLOSING

In the event your school is closed due to inclement weather, or some other emergency, stay 
tuned to your local radio station for information on whether the Career and Technology Center 
classes will be canceled.

EARLY DISMISSAL

Early dismissal from Berks Career and Technology Center will be permitted; however, certain 
steps are necessary to receive permission. You must make a request concerning your early dismissal, 
in writing, to the supervisor at your campus, and each request will be handled on an individual basis.

PROCEDURES FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES FROM INSTRUCTIONAL
ACTIVITIES DUE TO INTERNAL CO-CURRICULAR EVENTS

While interference with any Berks Career and Technology Center instructional activity is not 
encouraged, there are instances where conflicts arise and may take precedence. Some typical 
instances over which we have little or no control are cancellation of school's attendance for a day or 
for some specific co-curricular activity at the sending school, which requires the involvement of their 
Career and Technology Center students.

Activities over which we can exercise control are those events of an internal nature. Some 
examples of these internal events are youth club activities, assemblies, student services' activities, 
guest speakers or a planned activity, which requires a student's absence from one activity over 
another, e.g., major testing situations. These aforementioned activities should be designed with the 
overall educational process of the students in mind, address social growth and interaction with peer 
groups or contribute to student self-esteem.

Realizing that conflicts of two internal activities may arise throughout a school year, the 
following guidelines are to be followed:

1.     The event/activity must be planned, organized and approved by administration at least 
        two (2) weeks in advance of the scheduled date. There are always exceptions to the 
        rules; if extenuating circumstances do not permit the two week notice, the request will 
        be dealt with on an individual basis.
2.     Those staff members, who will be affected, should be notified in advance of the 
        scheduled date, so that their activities can be reviewed and altered accordingly.
3.     Any student(s) may be withheld from attending an internal activity at the discretion of 
        the instructor because of unsatisfactory performance in the student(s) instructional 
        area. This unsatisfactory performance includes the academic and behavioral aspect of 
        overall class performance.
4.     If permission for attendance at an event is not granted by an instructor, the student 
        may not attend the event. If the student disregards this denial, the student will be in 
        violation of two (2) discipline code guidelines: "insubordination and unexcused 
        absence from class activity," and will be suspended for his/her actions.
5.     Any instructor may request to withhold his or her entire class from an activity/event 
        (other than math), if he or she feels that the conflicting activity/event should not take 
        precedence over their planned activity.

The math program is a mandated and integral part of the students' career programs, 
and as such, will be accorded equal priority given the vocational programs. Vocational and 
math instructors should communicate their requirements/needs to each other on a regular 
basis.

II. STUDENT SERVICES (Guidance)

Each Campus at the Berks Career and Technology Center is staffed with a guidance 
counselor, who will coordinate your educational activities with those of your home school. Please 
utilize the counselors to discuss school related or personal problems that may arise. As part of the 
testing and records maintenance function, student services will be responsible for the following:

TESTING PROGRAM

In accordance with the recommendations of the Director, the members of the Joint Operating 
Committee of the Berks Career and Technology Center have approved a testing program, designed to 
provide information concerning the proficiency of students on standardized tests of vocational 
achievement. During this school year, the following tests may be administered to your child:

Name of Test Purpose
1.     Ohio Trade and Industrial Education To provide a sound technique
        Achievement Test allowing school personnel to
2.     Cooperative Mathematics Test evaluate, plan and implement
3.     California Achievement Test program improvement and
4.     Differential Aptitude Test provide feedback through
5.     Student Occupational Competency student self-assessment
        Achievement Test
6.     ORBIT (Objective Referenced Band of Items and Tests - Math)
7.     WRAT (Wide Range Achievement Test)
8.     N.A.E.P. (National Assessment of Educational Progress)
9.     Iowa Test of Achievement and Proficiency


Your student's scores on these tests will be checked carefully and maintained in his/her school 
record as long as he/she attends the Berks Career and Technology Center. Should you wish to 
examine your student's record file at any time, you may arrange to do so by making an appointment 
with the appropriate guidance counselor.

STUDENT RECORDS

CATEGORY "A"
In accordance with policy regarding representational consents, the members of the Joint 
Operating Committee of the Berks Career and Technology Center do hereby authorize the 
superintendent or his designee to collect and maintain the following student records classified as 
"Category A:"

A.     Name 
B.     Address of Student 
C.     Birth Date 
D.     Gender J. Grades
E.     Telephone Number 
F.     Social Security Number 
G.     Sending School District Data
H.     Vocational/Academic Curriculum
I.       Attendance Record
K.     Participation in Co- and/or Extra- Curricular Activities

CATEGORY "B"
Category "B" information, which may become part of a student's cumulative record during the 
current school year is:

A.     Student progress reports
B.     Disciplinary action reports, based on serious or recurrent behavior patterns 

WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL

If you are planning to withdraw from Berks Career and Technology Center, you first should 
contact your home school guidance counselor, where arrangements will be made for you to complete 
the necessary forms. You should then make an appointment with the guidance counselor at your 
Career and Technology Center Campus to discuss your decision. All financial or material obligations 
to the Career and Technology Center must be met prior to withdrawal.

STUDENT/PARENTAL CONSENT AND MEDICAL FORMS

Student/parental consent and medical forms are to be completed by your parents as part of 
your enrollment packet prior to entering Berks Career and Technology Center. If you fail to fulfill this 
requirement, you will not be allowed to participate in shop class instruction. This information
is vital in case of an accident or serious injury.

CONFERENCES

You and your parents may arrange to meet with your instructors, guidance counselor or 
administrator if so desired. A conference will be scheduled as soon as possible upon request.

SCHOOL TO WORK PROGRAMS

A.    Supervised Cooperative Education Program (Co-op)
        The Cooperative Education Program is a collaborative effort by school, 
        business and industry for the training of apprentices and learners. Students, who 
        meet the requirements of the basic trade and technical training, attitudes, and 
        good work habits, are recommended for on-the-job training.
        Cooperative Education personnel are responsible for coordinating 
        placement, paperwork, on-site visitations and evaluations.
        The students are paid at least the prevailing minimum wage for the time on 
        the job. The students spend half of the day at the sending school for academic 
        subjects and the other half of the day on the job. The student must work a 
        minimum of 15 hours a week to qualify as a Cooperative Education Student and 
        receive credit to meet graduation requirements.  Most co-op students continue 
        to work for the same employers upon graduation, which is indicative of a positive
        business/education partnership.

B.     PACT (Partners in Accelerated Career Training)
        The PACT program is a four-year program open to students in the 11th grade. 
        It is a program designed to provide students with an education in their career 
        focus. It combines technical skills being taught at the school and work site. 
        Students are required to be enrolled in a Tech Prep curriculum at the home 
        school. The program provides a smooth transition into an Associate Degree 
        Program and mid-level job entry skills. For more information see a guidance 
        counselor or a School-to-Work Coordinator.

GRADING POLICY

PURPOSE

The intent of the grading procedure is to provide a numerical grade that accurately reflects
the student's proficiency in a given marking period. The quarterly grades include completed 
competencies, theory, and work attitudes and habits. Students are compared to established criteria 
rather than to each other.

COMPUTATION OF QUARTERLY GRADES - PROCEDURES

When computing quarterly grades, three (3) major areas will be considered. They are theory, 
skill development and attitude. A breakdown of sample criteria under each main heading follows 
below:

THEORY/KNOWLEDGE

Tests will be the main factor when calculating the theory grade. This portion of the grade will 
include:

- Written tests and quizzes
- Oral tests and quizzes
- Written/oral reports
- Homework assignments
- Practical application of theoretical knowledge
- Understanding of safety practices

SKILL/COMPETENCY

This portion of the grade will be determined by the number of completed competencies/tasks 
as per the training agreement between the student and the instructor, which is based upon the 
student's career objective. These competencies will be determined by task number and title identified 
in the PAL booklet.

Areas involved in determining successful completion of a competency/task are:

- Demonstration of safety practices
- Projects
- Basic skills competencies
- Procedures
- Operation of equipment
- Experiments

WORK ATTITUDES AND HABITS

This portion of the grade will be determined by the willingness of the student to adhere to 
school and industry standards and accounts for 20% of the grade in every program. Factors in 
determining the appropriate attitudes and habits are:

- Promptness
- Shop dress
- Ability to follow directions
- Peer relationships (ability to get along with others)
- Safety
- Attendance
- Demonstration of interest and initiative
- Student notebook
- Shop cleanup

GRADING SYSTEM

The Berks Career and Technology Center will issue its own report card quarterly. All grades 
will be numerical, and they will be provided to the sending schools. Comments are provided on the 
report card for the sake of further clarification. The grading system will be as follows:

90 - 100 (A) 0 - 59 (F)
80 - 89 (B) M  - Medical
70 - 79 (C) W - Withdrawal
60 - 69 (D)  I * - Incomplete 

* It is the responsibility of a student, who has been absent or suspended, to discuss the work to 
be made up with his/her instructor, as soon as he/she returns to school. Don't expect the instructor to 
come to you to discuss this work. 

There will be NO make-up work for unexcused/illegal absences.

Make-up for missed work will be as follows:

All work missed through unexcused absences will be graded as a zero. Incompletes will be 
issued if the student has not had the opportunity to make up work missed during the last two 
(2) weeks of a report period.

A grade of 45 will be the lowest grade that can be earned by a first year student, regardless of 
grade level, for the first two report periods of the student's enrollment. Thereafter, and for the 
remainder of the student enrollment, the grading system range from zero (0) to 100%.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

For each unexcused absence two (2) points are deducted from the attitude component of the 
quarter grade. Overall attendance patterns may also be reflected in the attitude component of the 
quarter grade. Three (3) unexcused absences per report period will result in a failing grade of 59-E, or 
the actual grade earned if less than 59. Students may not accumulate 12 unexcused absences per year, 
or credit for the year will be lost.

STUDENT PROGRESS REPORT

Students are evaluated quarterly by their instructors for the purpose of keeping their parents 
and home schools informed about their educational progress. Instructors explain to their students
the particulars of the grading policy as it relates to their areas of instruction, i.e., the end of quarter 
value of theory and skill development is different from one area of instruction to another. 
During the course of a report period progress reports will be sent home to parents to indicate 
concern about progress or attendance. Progress reports may also be used to indicate how extremely 
well a student is doing. An accumulation of poor progress reports, followed by continual grade 
failure, are reasons for sending schools to terminate student enrollment at the Berks Career and 
Technology Center.


STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

VOCATIONAL INDUSTRIAL CLUBS OF AMERICA (VICA)

VICA is the organization for trade, industrial, technical and health occupations students. 
There are nearly 300,000 members nationwide. VICA offers leadership, citizenship and character 
development programs and activities to complement student skill training. Our programs help 
students to better prepare themselves for the labor market. VICA emphasizes respect for the dignity 
of work, high standards and trade ethics, workmanship, scholarship and safety, as well as a 
partnership with business. It also serves as the student government, since each shop is represented.
Students are motivated to learn and excel through chapter activities, which are integral to their 
curriculum. VICA members work together to improve school, workplace and community. The 
National Leadership Conference and the VICA United States Skill Olympics give members an 
opportunity to compete for recognition and achievement awards in their chosen occupational skills. 
More than 200 corporations, labor organizations, trade associations and related businesses support 
VICA. VICA has chartered 52 state associations, including Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and 
Canada. There are 13,000 local VICA chapters in the nation's high schools, area vocational centers, 
post-secondary schools and junior and community colleges.

HEALTH OCCUPATIONS STUDENTS OF AMERICA (HOSA)

HOSA is the most recently established vocational youth organization. Created in 1976, it has 
20,000 student members and 427 chapters in 19 states. Designed to serve students enrolled in 
secondary school health occupation courses, activities are directed to the instructional program. 
Emphasis is placed on individual and group leadership skills and development rather than on 
competitive skills contests. HOSA sees itself as a national student organization that combines 
responsibility with the development of occupational competence.

HOME ECONOMICS RELATED OCCUPATIONS (HERO)

The main emphasis of the HERO chapter is on development of leadership through
participation in a vocational student organization concerned with knowledge and skills. The overall 
goal of FHA/HERO chapters is to help youth assume their roles in society through home economics
education in areas of personal growth, family life, vocational preparation and community involvement.


PERSONAL TRANSPORTATION 

The following are strictly forbidden regarding the use of personal transportation and are 
categorized as follows:

a.     Unauthorized use of any transportation other than a school provided vehicle to/from 
        an instructional campus. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of bicycles or 
        motorized cycles of any kind.
b.     Transporting unauthorized passengers to/from the instructional campus. Both driver 
        and passenger(s) will be in violation.
c.     Failure to park in a designated area
d.     Unsafe driving behavior to/from the instructional campus, or when on the
        instructional campus's property.
e.     Loitering on the campus parking lot after arrival. Students arriving earlier than their 
        class starting time must report immediately to the cafeteria.
f.      Walking to/from the vocational campus without proper authorization.
g.     Drivers and riders may not leave before the specified dismissal time without prior 
        written permission from the building administration.
h.     Transporting illegal or unauthorized objects, materials or substances 

STUDENT DRIVING/RIDING

Due to safety and liability concerns, student driving and riding is not encouraged, and only a 
limited number of reasons will be considered when issuing driving/riding permits. Only students in 
good standing, as evidenced by their instructor's signature on the permission forms, may continue to 
obtain the remainder of the signatures, necessary for final approval. Cooperative education students, 
who must report to school two days a month, are also permitted to drive on those designated days. A 
driving permit is required any time a student drives to school. No passengers are allowed unless by 
special permission. Violations of the driving/riding policy will be dealt with as follows:

1.     Driving Without Permission; the first violation will result in a Fine of $25.00; the 
        second or subsequent violation will result in a Fine of $50.00 plus the vehicle will 
        be towed at the owner's expense.
2.     A driver with permission who transports an unauthorized rider; the first violation 
        will result in loss of driving privileges for 30 days; the second violation will result 
        in loss of driving privileges for the balance of the school year.
3.     Riding without permission; the first violation will result in parental notification; the 
        second or subsequent violation will result in a insubordination infraction and a 
        suspension of at least one day.

Driving permit applications must be signed as required, and the application returned to the main 
office. A nominal fee is charged for parking stickers, which must be displayed while parking on 
school property. All students park in designated areas only. Unauthorized vehicles will be towed 
away at the owner's expense.

Any infractions may result in up to a Category "C" offense, and may result in 
driving/riding privileges being suspended or lost for the remainder of the school year, a fine 
and the towing (at student's expense) of the vehicle in question.

TEMPORARY DRIVING PERMIT

Students, who want to bring a vehicle to be repaired in one of the auto shops, must first get 
permission from the automotive instructor, who will supervise the work, the sending school principal, 
and the building supervisor at their campus. The permit will be valid only for the time indicated by the 
automotive instructor up to a maximum of three (3) days.

PARKING LOTS

All Berks Career and Technology Center students are provided with school transportation. 
Therefore, it is not required for any student to drive to either campus. If a student is granted a driving 
permit, he/she must understand that given "reasonable cause for suspicion," the vehicle may be 
searched while on school property for dangerous or illegal items that could pose a threat to the 
well being or our students or staff members.

BUS TRANSPORTATION

Negative student behavior, which represents a real or potential safety hazard to the other 
students on the transportation vehicle by diverting the attention of the vehicle's driver, will be dealt 
with as violations of the school's policies regarding transportation, safety, insubordination and misuse 
of facilities. As a result, the student may be suspended from school-provided transportation and 
approved alternative transportation will have to be arranged by the student's parents.

DON'T LOSE YOUR RIDING PRIVILEGE. 

Avoid trouble by following these simple rules. DO NOT SMOKE. School regulations and the laws
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prohibit smoking on buses. DO NOT use profane
language, eat or drink on the bus, throw objects, or shout. Stay in your assigned seat and 
keep your head and hands inside the bus. The driver is in complete charge of the bus and 
passengers. Seating rules and charts must be obeyed. 

VIDEO CAMERAS ARE OPERATING ON THE BUSES.

ON THE BUS, STUDENTS MUST:

a.     Students must present student ID badge.
b.     Be seated before the bus moves, and remain seated while the bus is in motion.
c.     Not tamper with the bus or any of its equipment. Any person willfully damaging a bus 
        will be held responsible for such action.
d.     Not extend any part of the body from the bus, or throw objects out of the bus.
e.     No use of tobacco such as smoking or chewing.
f.     Be courteous to the driver; obey him/her, and give him/her the respect due a teacher.
g.     Not talk to the driver while the bus is in motion or distract his/her attention by loud 
        talking or disorderly behavior.
h.     Ride only on the assigned bus, sit in assigned seat, and get off only at the assigned 
        stop, with such exceptions as requested in writing by the parent and approved by the 
        building administrator.
i.     Refrain from any actions which would endanger the health, safety and welfare of the 
       other pupils on the bus.
j.      Not block aisles or emergency door.
k.    Share the responsibility of keeping the bus clean. Do not throw paper, etc., on the 
        floor.
l.     Not open or close windows unless permitted to do so by the driver.
       Any infractions may result in up to a Category "C" offense.

PICTURE IDENTIFICATION (ID) BADGE

Many employers require their employees to wear ID badges; therefore, in preparation for the 
world of work, student safety and building security, Berks Career and Technology Center requires all 
employees and students to wear their photo ID badges at all times while on school property.
If your ID is misplaced, lost or stolen, go to the office for a temporary replacement. A total of 
three (3) temporary replacement ID will be issued before the student is suspended for the day, 
required to pay a $5.00 replacement charge and be suspended until the ID badge is replaced.

SAFETY

SAFETY RULES

In many cases what you wear in school is dictated by safety rules. Your instructor will explain 
these rules and regulations, some of which require hard hats, goggles, hair nets, safety shoes, etc. 
Modest, sensible dress is encouraged, as established in the "Student Rights and 
Responsibility Act of 1974, Section 12.11." Sloppy, untidy dress is not recommended because of 
safety. (See Student Dress/Grooming Guidelines)
Any act or behavior deemed unsafe to the extent where the safety and well-being of the 
individual or others is placed in jeopardy, may be cause for immediate dismissal from the Berks 
Career and Technology Center.

SAFETY GLASSES

It is Pennsylvania law that students pursuing certain activities in a vocational-technical school 
wear safety glasses at all times. For the protection of our students the Berks Career and Technology 
Center will provide safety glasses and cleaning stations in areas requiring their use. Students will be 
required to wear safety glasses at all times in these areas. They will be assigned their own pair, which 
must be kept in their possession at all times. If glasses are lost or damaged 
beyond usability, students will be required to purchase a replacement. Safety glasses are not to be 
removed from the school at any time.

FIRE DRILL REGULATIONS

Students will move quickly and quietly when leaving the building and moving to their 
designated area. They should leave all personal belongings behind, except for their purses or wallets.
Instructors will designate individual students to ensure that all area doors are closed and the 
POWER turned off. Instructors will also accompany their classes, maintain order and check 
attendance, using class rosters.
If students are working outside their assigned shop, they should follow the flow of traffic that 
is leaving the building. Once outside, they are to report to their instructor. When outdoor stations 
are reached, students will remain quiet and orderly until signaled to re-enter the building.

ACCIDENTS

All accidents must be reported to our instructors immediately, regardless of how minor they 
may seem. Instructors will send students to the nurse or person responsible for first aid. An accident 
report form must be completed and returned to the nurse.

CHILD/STUDENT ABUSE

School employees who suspect child abuse shall immediately notify the school principal or the 
principal's designated agent. Upon notification, the principal or the designated agent shall report the 
suspected child abuse. A person or official required to report a case of suspected child abuse, who 
willfully fails to do so, commits a summary offense for the first violation and a misdemeanor of the 
third degree for all subsequent violations. Any person required to report child abuse, and does so in 
good faith, shall have immunity from civil and criminal liability related to such reporting.

STUDENT ABUSE BY A SCHOOL EMPLOYEE

A school employee shall immediately contact the administrator when the school employee has 
reasonable cause to suspect, on the basis of his/her professional or other training and experience, that 
a student is a victim of serious bodily injury or sexual abuse or sexual exploitation by a school 
employee. If the accused school employee is the administrator, then the school employee shall 
immediately report to law enforcement officials and the district attorney.
The administrator shall exercise no discretion but has an absolute duty to report when s/he 
receives notice from a school employee. A school employee or administrator who refers a student 
abuse report shall be immune from civil and criminal liability arising out of the report. The school 
employee making a report of student abuse or injury by another employee shall not reveal the 
existence or content of the report to any person other than those to whom the reporting is required 
under this policy.

SPECIAL EVENTS

PARENTS' NIGHT

A Parents' night is held annually at each Career and Technology Center Campus. Students 
and their parents are invited to visit the campuses and individual instructors. Students' progress or 
concerns may be discussed at the time.

SENIOR RECOGNITION NIGHT

Awards and certificates of competency are presented to the senior class at an evening 
ceremony, held at each campus in May. Graduating seniors are provided an opportunity to invite two 
guests.


MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

INSURANCE

School insurance can be purchased through the sending school district. It is highly 
recommended that students have some kind of accident insurance, that covers then while in 
attendance at the Berks Career and Technology Center. School insurance is not available at the 
Berks Career and Technology Center.

STUDENT CHARGES/DEBTS

If a required job or sequence of required jobs is assigned to our students, they will not be held 
responsible for the cost of materials consumed. Students must purchase required clothing (uniforms) 
or tools, such as safety shoes or cosmetology kits, which become their personal property.
If an instructor provides the opportunity to a student to build, repair, or have repaired a 
personal project, which will be taken from the school upon completion, the student must supply or 
pay for all the materials used. Any work that is brought from outside must be approved by the 
instructor and supervisor. The instructor may reject an outside project on the following basis:
    - job is routine and has no learning value
    - job does not fit into the course of study at the time it is requested
    - job interferes with normal class function
Any outstanding debt will result in withholding of grades, and/or credit for the school year, 
and/or prosecution. All financial obligations must be cleared before a student leaves for withdrawal, 
cooperative education, summer vacation or graduation.

LOST AND FOUND

Articles found should be taken to the office. Articles not claimed will be disposed of at the 
end of the school year. If a student loses anything, the loss should be reported to the instructor and 
the main office.

TEXTBOOKS

Depending on the area of instruction, students may be assigned a numbered textbook for their 
personal use. All textbooks issued to students at no cost remain the property of the Berks Career and 
Technology Center. They must be returned at the end of the school year and be in good condition, 
less reasonable wear, or students will pay for damaged books.
There are also those programs in which students may be asked to purchase books. Students 
will be able to write or take notes in their own books and use them in their chosen career field as a 
resource after graduation.

EMERGENCY USE OF THE TELEPHONE

Students will not be called from class to the telephone. If the message is urgent, it will be 
delivered to the student immediately. Students are urged to make their parents and friends aware of 
this regulation. 
The phone in the office is a business phone, and you should not ask permission to use it.

LOCKER POLICY

The Berks Career and Technology Center acknowledges the need for safe in-school storage of 
books, clothing, school materials and other personal property, and may provide lockers for such 
storage. All lockers are and shall remain the property of the school. As such, students shall have no 
expectation of privacy in their lockers.

Students are encouraged to keep their lockers closed and locked, as the school is not 
responsible for the loss or theft of valuables. Lockers may not be used as a depository for a substance 
or object which is prohibited by law or school regulations or which threatens the health, safety or 
welfare of the school building or its occupants.

The Joint Operation Committee reserves the right to authorize school authorities to inspect a 
student's locker at any time for the purpose of determining whether the locker is being improperly 
used for the storage of contraband, a substance or object the possession of which is illegal, or any 
material which poses a threat or hazard to the safety and good order of the school. Random, periodic 
or sweeping searches may be conducted by school officials. Searches may also be conducted with 
police and police dogs.

If the school official conducting the search finds any illegal substance, material, or object, or 
evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law, the rules and regulations of the school, 
or the policy of the Joint Operating Committee, such substance, material, object or evidence may be 
seized and used against the student in school disciplinary, juvenile or criminal proceedings.

Prior to a locker being opened, students shall be notified and given an opportunity to be 
present; however, where school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the locker contains 
materials, which pose a threat to the health, welfare and safety of students in the school, student 
lockers may be searched without prior warning and without the student being present.

RADIOS-WALKMANS

No radios/walkmans of any size or shape are allowed to be operated in the campus. If they are 
observed, they will be confiscated, only to be released to a parent or guardian and the student will be 
subject to disciplinary action.

CAFETERIA

The school is served by a full-service offer vs. served cafeteria, offering the "Class A" lunch 
and a variety of a la carte items. Weekly lunch tickets may be purchased in advance.
Not all students are scheduled to eat lunch at the Career and Technology Center; some 
students eat at the sending school district.
"The Child Nutrition Program (specified) is open to all eligible persons, regardless of race, 
color, national origin, sex, age, or special needs. If you believe that you have been treated unfairly in 
receiving food services for any of the stated reasons, write immediately to the Secretary of 
Agriculture, Washington, D. C. 20250."

STUDENT HONORS

Student of the Quarter honors are presented each marking period in all instructional areas, 
both A.M. and P.M. Students are invited to an honorary breakfast or luncheon.  Through
competition in the three student youth club organizations, students are eligible for 
recognition at local, state, national and international levels.   Each year the outstanding senior 
student in each subject area is chosen. Many shops also have specific competitions
throughout the state relating to their vocational area.

STUDENT DRESS/GROOMING GUIDELINES

The ultimate goal of vocational education is to prepare students for the world of work. Along 
with the requirements that skills be learned, proper work attitudes must also be acquired. In that 
spirit it is the philosophy of the Berks Career and Technology Center that guidelines for proper attire 
and grooming will be integrated into the vocational program. The principal reason for these 
guidelines is safety. However, it is never too early for a vocational student to become accustomed to 
the generally acceptable standards of dress and grooming prevalent in business and industry.
Therefore, students need to familiarize themselves with the following guidelines for student 
dress at the Berks Career and Technology Center:

SHOPS

Each course has a dress code and students assigned to that area will abide by that code. 
Any such code will be governed by safety requirements, exposure to trade practice, and 
uniformity/identity.. The adopted policy will, for the reasons listed above, also apply to length of hair, 
grooming and cleanliness.

GENERAL SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS

1. Hats, undershirts, cut-off clothing, or shoes with cleats will not be worn in the school.
2. Any clothing or jewelry which contains words or symbols that are profane or sexually 
explicit, or which by its nature distracts attention from the educational purposes of the 
school, is not considered appropriate for school attire.
3. Footwear must be worn at all times.
4. Tank tops, halters and tube tops are not permitted.
5. Shorts may be worn if part of the individual vocational dress code. The guidelines 
listed below will be strictly followed:
- Shorts designed for athletic wear are not appropriate
- Shorts, which focus undue attention on the wearer, or which is disruptive or 
indecent, should be avoided.
- Shorts should be selected that are appropriate for school/business and activities 
performed at school
- If, in the opinion of the school official, the shorts are found to be inappropriate, 
the matter will be handled under the progressive disciplinary policy.
6. Students have a responsibility to keep themselves, their clothes, and their hair clean. 
School officials may impose limitations on student participation in the instructional 
program, where lack of cleanliness constitutes a health hazard.

Failure to abide by the above provisions will be considered a violation of the insubordination 
section of the discipline code. Students may be sent home at the discretion of the administrator in 
charge of discipline for failure to heed the guidelines listed above.

STUDENT USE OF INTERNET POLICY

815 ACCEPTABLE USE OF INTERNET

PURPOSE

The Joint Operating Committee supports the use of the Internet and other computer 
Networks in the Berks Career and Technology Center's instructional program in order to 
facilitate learning and teaching through interpersonal communications, access to 
information, research and collaboration.
The use of network facilities will be consistent with the curriculum adopted by the
Berks Career and Technology Center as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, 
Abilities, and developmental levels of students.

AUTHORITY

The Berks Career and Technology Center has taken precautions to restrict access to 
controversial material. However, on a global network it is impossible to control all materials. 
With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of 
material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school, 
and an industrious user may discover controversial information. The electronic information 
available to students and staff does not imply endorsement of the content by the Berks Career 
and Technology Center, nor does the Career Center guarantee the accuracy of information 
received on the Internet. The Career Center will not be responsible for any information that 
may be lost, damaged or unavailable when using the network or for any information that is 
retrieved via the Internet.

The Berks Career and Technology Center will not be responsible for any unauthorized 
charged or fees resulting from access to the Internet. All unauthorized charges or fees will be 
the sole responsibility of the user.

The Berks Career and Technology Center reserves the right to log network use and to 
monitor fileserver space utilization by Career Center users to use software to monitor Internet 
use, as well as the right to access, copy, monitor, and disclose all Internet and e-mail 
messages. The Internet Administrator will regularly review e-mail messages. Users have no 
expectation of privacy in connection with the electronic communications system.

RESPONSIBILITY

The Joint Operating Committee establishes that use of the Internet is a privilege, not a 
right; inappropriate, unauthorized and illegal use will result in the cancellation of those 
privileges and appropriate disciplinary action.

The Berks Career and Technology Center will make every effort to ensure that this 
educational resource is used responsibly by students and staff.

Administrators, teachers and staff have a professional responsibility to work together 
to help students develop the intellectual skills necessary discriminate among information 
sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and development levels, and to 
evaluate and use the information to meet their educational goals.
Students and staff have the responsibility to respect and protect the rights of every 
other user in the Berks Career and Technology and on the Internet.

The Administrative Director or designee will have the authority to determine what is 
inappropriate use, and his/her decision is final.

GUIDELINES

Network accounts are the property of the Berks Career and Technology Center and as 
such, all communications and information accessible via the network are assumed to be public 
property and are subject to review by school officials to ensure compliance with the policies 
and guidelines established herein.

PROHIBITIONS

Students and staff are expected to act in responsible, ethical and legal manner in 
accordance with Berks Career and Technology Center policy, accepted rules of network 
etiquette, and federal and State law. Specifically, the following uses are prohibited:

1.     Use of the network to facilitate illegal activity.

2.     Use of the network for commercial or for-profit purposes.

3.     Use of the network for non-work or non-school related work.

4.     Use of the network for product advertisement or political lobbying.

5.     Use of the network for hate mail, discriminatory remarks, and offensive or 
        inflammatory communication.

6.     Unauthorized or illegal installation, distribution, reproduction, or use of copyrighted 
        materials.

7.     Use of the network to access obscene or pornographic material.

8.     Use of inappropriate language or profanity on the network.

9.     Use of the network to transmit material likely to be offensive or objectionable to 
        recipients.

10.  Use of the network to intentionally obtain or modify files, passwords, and data 
        belonging to other users.

11.  Impersonation of another user, anonymity, and pseudonyms.


12.  Use of network facilities for fraudulent copying, communications, or modification of 
        materials in violation of copyright laws.

13.  Loading or use of unauthorized games, programs, files, or other electronic media.

14.  Use of the network to disrupt the work of other users.

15.  Destruction, modification, or abuse of network hardware and software.

16.  Quoting personal communications in a public forum without the original author's 
        prior consent.

SECURITY

System security is protected through the use of passwords. Failure to adequately 
protect or update passwords could result in unauthorized access to personal or Career Center 
files. To protect the integrity of the system, the following guidelines shall be followed:

1.     Employees and students shall not reveal their passwords to another individual.

2.     Users are not to use a computer that has been logged in under another student's or 
        teacher's name.

3.     Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other 
        computer systems may be denied access to the network.

SAFETY

To the greatest extend possible, users of the network will be protected from harassment or 
unwanted or unsolicited communication. Any network user who receives threatening or 
unwelcome communications shall immediately bring them to the attention of a teacher or 
administrator.

Network users shall not reveal personal addresses or telephone numbers to other users on the 
network.

CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE USE

The network user shall be responsible for damages to the equipment, systems, and software 
resulting from deliberate or willful acts.

Illegal use of the network; intentional deletion or damage to files of data belonging to others; 
copyright violations or theft of services will be reported to the appropriate legal authorities; for 
possible prosecution.


General rules for behavior and communications apply when using the Internet, in addition to 
the stipulations of this policy. Loss of the access and other disciplinary actions shall be 
consequences for inappropriate use.

Vandalism will result in cancellation of access privileges. Vandalism is defined as any 
malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet or other networks. This 
includes but is not limited to the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

COPYRIGHT

The illegal use of copyrighted software by students and staff is prohibited. Any data uploaded 
to or downloaded from the network shall be subject to "fair use" guidelines.

STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE IN ACCORDANCE WITH TITLE IX AND 
SECTION 504

A.     DEFINITION - a grievance shall be defined as any dispute or complaint involving 
        questions or violations of Civil Rights Guidelines: Title IX (non-discrimination on the 
        basis of sex) and Section 504 (non-discrimination on the basis of handicap).

B.     AGGRIEVED PERSON - shall mean any individual or individuals making a 
        grievance.

C.     DAYS - the term days, used in this procedure, shall mean working school days, 
        according to the calendar of the Berks Career and Technology Center. 

D.     PROCEDURE

Step 1 - The aggrieved person shall, within 10 days of the occurrence, present the 
grievance in writing to the supervisor or the Title IX or Section 504 coordinator listed 
below. The coordinator shall conduct a review and issue a decision, in writing, within 
10 days of the review.

Step 2 - If not satisfied with the decision of the coordinator, the aggrieved person
may appeal the decision, in writing, to the superintendent of the Berks Career and 
Technology Center or his designee within 5 days of the original decision. The 
superintendent shall conduct a review and issue a decision, in writing, within 5 
working days of the review.

Step 3 - If not satisfied with the decision of the superintendent, the aggrieved 
person may appeal, in writing, the decision of the superintendent to the Berks 
Career and Technology Center Joint Operating Committee at its next monthly 
meeting. The Committee meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

TITLE IX COORDINATOR AND SECTION 504 COORDINATOR:

Office of the Director
Berks Career and Technology Center
1057 County Road
Leesport, PA 19533

NOTE: This Grievance Procedure will apply to Tech Prep students until acceptance to 
post-secondary education.

CODE OF CONDUCT

POSITION STATEMENT

Section 1317 of the Pennsylvania School Code provides as follows: S13-1317 - Authority of 
teachers, vice principals, and principals over students. "Every teacher, vice principal, and principal in 
the public schools shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to the conduct and behavior 
over the pupils attending his/her school, during the time they are in attendance; including the time 
required in going to and from their homes, as the parents, guardians or persons in parental relation to 
such pupils may exercise over them."
In keeping with Section 1317, the Berks Career and Technology Center believes that one of 
its goals is the preparation of its students to be lawful and responsible citizens. Therefore, the 
behavioral code is implemented to be consistent with the components of the student's rights and 
responsibilities, and is committed to assuring equal opportunity and treatment to all students, 
regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex or ethnic background.
The disciplinary actions, which may be taken in response to a breach of the behavioral code, 
are meant to be constructive in nature and not to be solely punitive. All disciplinary actions are 
predicated upon a cooperative and courteous student behavior during any discipline procedure. Any 
misconduct, abusive behavior or uncooperative attitude during the discipline proceedings may 
advance the disciplinary action response step. Behavioral code violations, which involve multiple 
offenses, will be handled either according to the more severe offense category or advance the steps 
within the category of the violations. 

The disciplinary action responses vary according to the severity of common occurrences 
within the four categories of infractions. Those infraction categories, the actions to be taken, and 
descriptions of common disciplinary offenses are contained on the following pages. There will be 
communication with the sending school's administrative staff throughout these disciplinary
proceedings.

Suspensions will include suspension from instructional activities at both the sending school 
and career and technology classes and will be compatible with the sending school's disciplinary 
procedures wherever possible.
In any situation, where the violator has reached the final disciplinary step, and all reasonable 
corrective measures have been taken, the administration of the Career and Technology Center will 
seek the student's withdrawal from the school by sending school's administration.

Excerpts from the Pennsylvania School Code - Chapter 12
Regulations and Guidelines on Student Rights and Responsibilities are supplied with this 
behavioral code, so students, attending the Berks Career and Technology Center, are aware of both 
their rights and responsibilities and can exercise both properly

FREE EDUCATION AND ATTENDANCE

A.     All persons residing in the Commonwealth between the ages of six and twenty-one
        years are entitled to a free and full education in the Commonwealth's public schools. 
        This right extends to migratory children and pregnant or married students. Mentally 
        retarded children are also entitled to a public sponsored program of education and 
        training appropriate to their learning capabilities.

B.     Parents or guardians of all children between the ages of eight and seventeen are 
        required by the compulsory attendance law to ensure that their children attend an 
        approved educational institution, unless legally excused.

C.    Students may not be asked to leave school merely because they have reached 
        seventeen years of age, if they are fulfilling their responsibilities as students, as
        defined hereafter. A student may not be excluded from the public school nor from 
        extra-curricular activities because of being married or pregnant. 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

A.    Student responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in 
        classroom work, and conformance to school rules and regulations. Most of all, 
        students share with the administration and faculty a responsibility to develop a climate 
        within the school, that is conducive to wholesome learning and living. 
B.    No student has the right to interfere with the education of his fellow students. It is 
        the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of teachers, students, 
        administrators and all others, who are involved in the educational process.
C.    Students should express their ideas and opinions in a respectful manner so as not to 
        offend or slander others.
D.     It is the responsibility of the students to:
        1.     Be aware of all rules and regulations for student behavior and conduct themselves 
                 in accordance with them.
        2.     Be willing to volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety and 
                welfare of the school community and the protection of school property.
        3.     Dress and groom themselves to meet fair standards of safety and health, and to 
                not cause substantial disruption to the education process.
        4.     Assume that until a rule is waived, altered or repealed, it is in full effect.
        5.     Assist the school staff in operating a safe school for all students enrolled therein.
        6.     Be aware of and comply with state and local laws.
        7.     Attend school daily, except when excused, and be on time at all classes and other 
                school functions.
        8.     Make all necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school.
        9.     Pursue and attempt to complete satisfactorily the courses of study prescribed by 
                state and local school authorities.
        10.  Avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers and publications and indecent or 
                obscene language. 

RESPONSIBILITY OF OTHERS FOR DISCIPLINE

Joint Operating Committee Members: The J.O.C. members are obligated to support all 
personnel and the school district, who enforce the policies of discipline.

Director: The director shall exercise leadership in establishing all procedures, rules and regulations 
to make effective the policies of the board of education relating to standards of teacher and pupil 
behavior.


Building Administrators: The building administrators must make sure that all faculty members 
and students are aware of all policies relating to discipline by making them aware of any changes 
or updates in the policy. Furthermore, it is the administrators' responsibility to see that the discipline 
policy is properly enforced by the faculty.

Faculty and Staff: It is the teachers' responsibility to enforce the discipline policy both in and out of 
the classroom. Control of the classroom lies primarily in the hands of the classroom teacher; 
therefore, every effort should be made to handle situations without office referral.

Parents: The parents will be expected to cooperate fully with the school personnel in carrying out 
the school Code of Conduct.

COMMON OFFENSES AND CATEGORY OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION TAKEN

INSUBORDINATION

Insubordination occurs when a student fails to observe a reasonable and legal 
request/guideline/policy presented by the school or an authorized member of the school's staff. 
Common insubordination infractions include, but are not limited to the following:

1.     Leaving an instructional area, activity or school building/facility without proper 
        permission from the instructor or proper authority. Students should request the 
        instructor's consent if they desire to visit either the locker area or lavatory facilities in 
        their immediate classroom. If the lavatory is not located within the immediate
        instructional area, a proper lavatory pass must be secured from the instructor before 
        proceeding to the lavatory. Also sign-in/out sheets must be used by the students leaving 
        their instructional area.
2.     Failure to request and/or present a proper pass inroute to or in a specific area of school 
        property.
3.     Unauthorized absence from an instructional area or facility
4.     Running in the hallways
5.     Improper dress for a predetermined-determined instructional activity.
6.     Kissing or other physical displays of affection other than holding hands.
7.     Disregarding a reasonable/legal request of a staff member.
8.     Disturbing/disrupting a classroom or school related activity.
9.     The use of offensive/abusive/vulgar language or non-verbal communication toward 
        another student.
10.   Failure to return an excuse blank within three school days after return from absence.
11.   The use of offensive/abusive/vulgar language or non-verbal communication toward a 
        staff member. Staff members will include professional, clerical, cafeteria, custodial or 
        transportation personnel. (This offense is a Category ?C? violation and may result 
        in disorderly conduct charges being filed.)

DISCIPLINARY ACTION RESPONSES TO VIOLATIONS OF THE 
INSUBORDINATION GUIDELINES, WHICH RESULT IN A STUDENT BEING 
SENT TO A BUILDING ADMINISTRATOR, ARE CATEGORY "B" OFFENSES. 
PLEASE REFER TO THE DISCIPLINARY ACTION CHART. 

LATENESS

The Berks Career and Technology Center instructional program includes emphasizing those 
qualities necessary for successful employment during and after the student's vocational preparation. 
Among the most sought after qualities in an employee are dependability and promptness. We will do 
everything possible to reinforce those attitudes.

Lateness is divided into two (2) separate and distinct categories. One category involves 
situations wherein the student is late arriving at the Career and Technology Center from the sending 
school, and the other category involves situations wherein the student is late for a class session, after
arriving at the Career and Technology Center. These two (2) categories of lateness will be handled as 
follows:

TARDINESS

When arriving late, report to the main office and receive an admission pass, before reporting 
to class. Frequent tardiness will result in disciplinary action.

If a student will be late arriving from the sending school, because the student missed the 
authorized transportation from the sending school to the Career and Technology Center, the student 
must follow these guidelines:

1.     The student must report to the sending school office before proceeding to the Career 
        and Technology Center. This "lateness" will be handled according to the individual 
        sending school district's policies/practices governing "lateness."
2.     If a means of transportation can be secured to get the tardy student to the Career and 
        Technology Center, the sending school will contact the Career and Technology Center 
        regarding the transportation arrangements and give to the student a written 
        authorization to do so. This written authorization must be presented to the designated 
        person assigned to handle lateness situations.
3.     The student must report to the Career and Technology Center's office immediately upon 
        arrival. Please note: If a student fails to follow these steps as outlined, the student 
        will be subject to Category "B" disciplinary offense procedure.

LATENESS WITHIN CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER

1.     Any student who is reported as "late" for a class session or activity, without a 
        reasonable and acceptable explanation, will be handled under the guidelines governing 
        Category "A" offenses.
2.     If a student misses the bus to the sending school, the student will be assigned to In-
        school suspension until the next bus returns to the sending school. If the next bus is not 
        until the next school day, the parent or guardian will be notified to pick up the student. 
        If the parent or guardian is unable to transport the student, the school will provide the 
        transportation and bill the student for the cost of the transportation.

ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY

The Berks Career and Technology Center is entrusted to provide a safe and prudent 
instructional environment for its students and staff. Any actions which jeopardize the safety of its 
students and/or staff will be considered most serious.

The Following Are Forbidden:

1.     The throwing/projecting of any object, material or substance which could cause 
        physical harm.
2.     Behavior/actions which constitute an actual or potentially hazardous situation to the 
        instigator or to those in the immediate area.
3.     Safety rules of various courses will be strictly adhered to.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION RESPONSES TO VIOLATIONS OF THE "SAFETY" 
GUIDELINES ARE COVERED UNDER THE CATEGORY "C" OFFENSES.

MISUSE/ABUSE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES/EQUIPMENT

The Berks Career and Technology Center will consider any deliberate attempt to misuse, 
destroy, alter, abuse or deface any of its facilities or equipment a breach of the discipline guidelines. 
The guilty party may be made to make restitution and legal actions may be taken against the party by 
school authorities. In addition, the administration may request withdrawal of the party by the sending 
school.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION RESPONSES TO VIOLATIONS OF THIS AREA ARE 
COVERED UNDER THE CATEGORY "C" OFFENSES.

PHYSICAL/SEXUAL/VERBAL ASSAULT

Physical, sexual or verbal assault by a student against another student or staff member is 
strictly forbidden.

1.     In general, incidents which are considered "horseplay" or "rough housing," where some 
        limited physical force or verbal threats are involved, will be considered Category "B" 
        offenses.
2.     Incidents which are clearly "fighting," involving at least two (2) combatants in mutual 
        physical force, will be considered Category "C" offenses. Police may be called and 
        civil or criminal charges may be filed.
3.     Incidents, where one party is clearly physically assaulted or attacked by another without 
        provocation, will be handled as Category "D" violations. Police may be called and 
        civil or criminal charges may be filed.

While no physical altercations or verbal harassment are condoned, there are varying degrees of 
severity associated with the extent of force used.  Facts leading to the incident and the depth of 
involvement of the parties engaged in the situation will be investigated, and in any situation, where the 
instigator of the altercation can be clearly determined, that party will receive a more severe 
punishment than the other party. Also, the "category offenses step" can be advanced accordingly, if 
the facts of the incident warrant stronger measures.

FALSIFICATION/CHEATING/STEALING

Since the school is attempting to prepare its students for future placement in their chosen field 
of study, it's responsible for impressing upon its students the importance of personal integrity. 
Therefore, any situation, where the student is in violation of the trust placed in the individual, will be 
considered a serious infraction of the discipline guidelines:

1.     Any attempt to falsify information regarding any school related documents, class 
        assignments or examinations to include cheating, forgery, unauthorized alteration or 
        plagiarism will be considered a violation covered under Category "B" offenses.

2.     The theft, or attempted theft, of any object, material or substance, which is the property 
        of the school, its staff members, students or guests, is considered a violation covered 
        under Category "C" offenses.

DRUGS/ALCOHOL/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

In the interest of creating a healthy environment the following rules will be strictly enforced:

1.    The use or possession of narcotics; illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia; "look-alike drugs;" 
        intoxicants; mood altering substances; controlled substances, or any substance, which is 
        conveyed or implied as a drug, while on school property, transportation or during 
        school related activities is strictly forbidden.
2.     If a student must take either a prescribed or legally un-prescribed drug, the student must 
        notify the school authority regarding the drug's use. A note from a parent or legal 
        guardian explaining the specifics of the drug's use is necessary. In addition the school 
        may request that the substance be kept by the school authority's delegated person during 
        school hours. If a student secures authorization to use a prescribed drug, or legally 
        un-prescribed drug during school hours, he/she is strictly forbidden from dispensing the 
        drub to another person.


DISCIPLINARY ACTION RESPONSES TO VIOLATIONS OF THIS AREA ARE 
COVERED WITHIN THE CATEGORY "D" OFFENSES AND WILL INCLUDE 
POLICE INVOLVEMENT.

USE OF TOBACCO/TOBACCO PRODUCTS

The use of tobacco and tobacco products by minors is inconsistent with the law, not in 
keeping with good health practices, and violates many fire and safety regulations. Therefore, no 
tobacco products are to be used or in the possession of students while on school property or while 
under the jurisdiction of the school's authority. SMOKING - The use or possession of cigarettes, 
cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, etc., is strictly forbidden.

This infraction will be handled as a Category "C" violation. In addition, a fine, as 
determined by the district justice, will be imposed.

ATTENDANCE

Unexcused or illegal absence from the Berks Career and Technology Center will be 
considered a Category "B" offense. See attendance policy, beginning on page 1.

WEAPONS

It is unlawful for anyone to possess lethal weapons in a school building or on school 
property.  No pupil shall possess or knowingly assist or accompany any pupil who possesses any weapon 
on or in any property of the school district; such property shall include, by way of example and not 
limitation, grounds, buildings, vehicles, locations at which activities of the school district are taking 
place, any vehicles used to transport pupils to and from school or school related activities, and 
locations where pupils await such vehicles.

The term "weapon" refers to any loaded or unloaded firearm (including pellet guns, B.B. guns, 
and look-alike firearms); any explosive device of any kind; any Bowie knife, straight-bladed dagger, 
lock-blade knife, hunting knife or any knife or knife-like instrument with a sharp cutting edge; or any 
other tool or instrument, that is not reasonably related to education, such as chains, metal spikes brass 
knuckles, night-sticks, saps, axe handles, etc.

A student is in possession of an illegal and/or banned item(s) under this policy when such 
item(s) is found on the person of the student, or under his/her control, on property being used by the 
school or at any school function or activity, or any school event held away from school, or while 
student is on his/her way to or from school.

Any professional staff member or school employee shall immediately inform the building 
administrator, who will conduct a complete investigation. Upon confiscation, the building 
administrator must immediately notify and/or summon:
1.     The local police.
2.     The director.
3.     The parents of any and all students involved in the incidents.
4.     The student's sending school principal.

Upon reasonable suspicion of possession of a weapon, the building administrator will request 
the student to volunteer to be searched by a school official (in the presence of a witness). If the 
student(s) resists being searched, the building administrator will immediately summon the police and 
request assistance in this matter from the local police. Every effort will be made to notify the 
parent(s) as soon as possible the building administrator will collaborate with the director and develop 
a public statement, as well as determine the most effective method for informing school personnel.
An immediate ten-day out-of-school suspension will occur. The director will notify the sending 
school district superintendent to make recommendations for withdrawal from the Berks 
Career and Technology Center.

TELEPHONES / PAGERS

Section 1317.1 of the Public School Code indicates that 
possession of telephone pagers is prohibited.

1.     The possession by students of telephone paging devices, commonly referred to as cell 
        phones, and/or beepers, shall be prohibited on school grounds, at school sponsored 
        activities and on busses or other vehicles provided by the school district.
2.     The prohibition contained in section (1) shall not apply in the following cases, 
        provided that the school authorities approve of the presence of the beeper in each case:
        a.     A student who is a member of a volunteer fire company, ambulance or rescue 
                squad, and who is geographically located at a campus making response to such 
                an emergency call practical.
        b.     A student who has a need for a beeper due to the medical condition of an 
                immediate family member. (Added by L. 1989, Act 103 (1), eff. 12/22/89.)
        c.     Possession of cellular phones is prohibited.

Under both exceptions to the prohibition of beepers, listed in the school code above, the 
student must provide a request in writing from the proper authority, stating the specific need for the 
"beeper/pager."
Any unauthorized pagers will be confiscated, only to be released to the parent or 
guardian, Disciplinary action will fall under Category "C."

LASER POINTERS

Possession of laser pointers are strictly prohibited. If used harassment charges will be filed. 
All laser pointers will be confiscated and only to be released to a parent or guardian. This offense is 
a Category "C" violation.

UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES

Any student activity, which not only violates the school's behavioral code, but constitutes a violation 
of the township, state or federal code of law, may involve the intervention of the particular law 
agency with jurisdiction. While the individual violations which could occur are too numerous to list 
within the behavioral code, examples of such activities include but are not limited to the following: the possession/sale/distribution of stolen property; gambling; possession of 
firearms/illegal weapons/hazardous substances; the unlawful use of telephone, mail or any 
communication medium; false alarm or a bomb hoax and disorderly conduct.

SEXUAL, AND ETHNIC, RACIAL, RELIGIOUS OR LIFESTYLE HARASSMENT

It is the policy of the Berks Career and Technology Center to maintain a learning and 
working environment that is free from sexual harassment.

It shall be a violation of Joint Operating Committee policy for any member of the staff to 
harass a student through conduct or communications of a sexual nature as defined below. It shall also 
be a violation of this policy for students to harass other students through conduct or communications 
of a sexual nature as defined below.

Sexual Harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, 
and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, when made by any 
member of the school staff to a student or when made by any student to another student 
when:

1.     Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of 
        an individual's employment or education.
2.     Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for 
        academic or employment decisions affecting that individual.
3.     Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's 
        academic or professional performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive 
        employment or educational environment.

Sexual harassment, as defined above, may include but is not limited to the following: verbal 
harassment or abuse; pressure for sexual activity; repeated remarks to a person with sexual or 
demeaning implications; unwelcome touching; suggesting or demanding sexual involvement 
accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, job, etc.

Any person, who alleges sexual harassment by any staff member or student in the school, may 
use the school's complaint procedure or may complain directly to his/her immediate supervisor, 
building administrator, guidance counselor or other individual designated to receive such complaints. 
Filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting sexual harassment will not reflect upon the individual's 
status; nor will it effect future employment, grades or work assignments.

The right to confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the accused, will be respected 
consistent with the school's legal obligations, and with the necessity to investigate allegations of 
misconduct and to take corrective action when this conduct has occurred.

A substantiated charge against a staff member in the school shall subject such staff member to 
disciplinary action, including discharge.

A substantiated charge against a student in the school shall subject that student to student 
disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion, consistent with the student discipline code.

REFERRALS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Any referrals for disciplinary action will be documented in full by the involved parties with an accurate account of the incident.   Disciplinary action at the Berks Career and Technology Center is progressive as demonstrated by the chart below*:

All Categories reasonable control; therefore, the Administration may seek the student's withdrawal from the Berks  Career and Technology Center by the sending school.

* ANY MISCONDUCT, ABUSIVE BEHAVIOR OR UNCOOPERATIVE ATTITUDE DURING THE DISCIPLINARY  PROCEEDINGS MAY ADVANCE THE DISCIPLINARY STEP.

TECH PREP IN PENNSYLVANIA

Technology in Pennsylvania is dramatically changing the way we live and work. In the drive to 
stay competitive in a global marketplace, business and industry need more agile minds filled with 
advanced knowledge and skills in science, mathematics and technology. The Tech Prep program 
offers a unique and desirable addition to the current array of education opportunities in the 
Commonwealth. The Tech Prep program is designed for students not taking part in the traditional 
college preparatory program, but who desire advanced training in a technological field. It is 
designed to improve students' academic and technical preparation to help them cope with a rapidly 
changing workplace. By injecting more rigor into the academic curriculum and focusing on 
technology clusters, students will have greater opportunities, based on their career goals. Tech Prep 
will provide students with the skills relevant to today's business and technology and is necessary to 
make a smooth transition into the workplace, community college, university or branch campus.

TECH PREP IN BERKS COUNTY

When students in Berks County graduate from high school, their future goals will include one of the 
following plans:

    1.     to attend a four-year college
    2.     to attend a two-year community college or technical school
    3.     to pursue military training
    4.     to enter a career area immediately

Already in place is an effective curriculum, designed to meet the needs of students, who plan to 
attend a four-year college. The purpose of the Tech Prep program in Berks County is to provide a 
parallel curriculum focus for those students who plan to attend a two-year community college/technical 
school or immediately enter a career upon graduation.

Provided for each technology cluster is a suggested program of study which includes those 
academic courses, which will best prepare the student for future success. This focus allows the student 
to take advantage of those educational opportunities provided at the high school level, which are most 
directly related to his or her career goal.

By providing a career focus and an applied academic foundation at an early stage in a student's high 
school career, the Tech Prep program offers a variety of opportunities, rather than imposing limitations. 
If students' plans change, their academic preparation and technical focus will provide to be a valuable 
asset in any alternative curriculum pursuit.

On the next two pages you will find a recommended course sequence for the Career Cluster and 
Advanced Technology cluster. These are guidelines only.

SPECIFIC SCHEDULES MUST BE  ASSIGNED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE SENDING SCHOOL GUIDANCE  DEPARTMENT.

TECH PREP FOUR-YEAR COURSE SEQUENCE

Cluster: Career Technology

CAREER TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS

Auto Collision Repair Technology Culinary Arts Masonry
Automotive Technology Dental Occupations Microcomputer Technology
Building Construction Occupations Design Drafting Technology Occupational Child Development
Cabinetmaking Electrical Occupations Painting/Decorating
Carpentry Health Occupations Plumbing and Heating
Commercial Art Heating/Ventilation/AC Commercial Photography
Horticulture Recreational & Power Equipment Welding
Cosmetology Machinist/Toolmaker

Berks Career and Technology Center is creating a growing list of post secondary schools in which 
our graduates can gain advanced credits and/or placement. A partial list follows:

Allentown Business College
Alvernia College
Automotive Training Center
Berks Technical Institute
Home Builders Association Apprenticeship
Lehigh County Community College
Lincoln Technical Institute
Luzerne County Community College
Northampton County Community College
Northwestern College
PA College of Technology
Penn State, Berks-Lehigh Valley Campus
Pennsylvania School of Art and Design
Reading Area Community College
Vale Technical Institute

TECH PREP FOUR-YEAR COURSE SEQUENCE1

Cluster: Advanced Technology

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

Data Processing
Drafting Design Technology
Electronics
Health Occupations
Robotics & Automation Technology

CREDIT THROUGH ARTICULATION

Berks Career and Technology Center is creating a growing list of post secondary schools in which 
our graduates can gain advanced credits and/or placement. A partial list follows:

Allentown Business College
Alvernia College
Automotive Training Center
Berks Technical Institute
Home Builders Association Apprenticeship
Lehigh County Community College
Lincoln Technical Institute
Luzerne County Community College
Northampton County Community College
Northwestern College
PA College of Technology
Penn State, Berks-Lehigh Valley Campus
Pennsylvania School of Art and Design
Reading Area Community College
Vale Technical Institute

The Berks Career and Technology Center Guidance Department should be contacted for details.

It is the policy of the Berks Career and Technology Center not to discriminate on the basis of sex, 
handicap, race or national origin in its vocational programs, activities, or employment as required 
by Title IX, Section 504 and Title VI. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX, Section 504 
or Title VI should be directed to the Office of the Director (610) 378-4884.

BCTC's Student Handbook is subject to change without notice.  To obtain the most recent copy of the BCTC Student Handbook, please contact the campus office.