STI Student Handbook 2021 2022 APPROVED 6.8.21
STI Student Handbook 2021 2022 APPROVED 6.8.21
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2021—2022
The Practical Nurse Program has full approval status granted by:
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing
Division of Health Professions Licensure
Department of Public Health
239 Causeway Street, Suite 500, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02114
Telephone: 800.414.0168, www.mass.gov
This handbook is not intended to be a complete statement of all procedures, policies, rules, and
regulations. STI reserves the right to change, without notice, the content in this document.
The STI Student Handbook serves as a resource for institutional and academic guidelines. It
clarifies the values and standards we hold as an educational community. The Student Handbook
sets forth the expectations for students working in partnership with faculty and staff. Thank you
for choosing Southeastern Technical Institute.
School Committee
Administration
Absences/Tardiness/Dismissals
1. A student who misses ten (10) school hours in a semester will be issued a written warning
with a copy forwarded to the STI Director.
2. A student who misses twenty (20) school hours in a semester will meet with the STI
Director and Program Director. The STI Director will place the student on written
probation with the understanding that if the student misses a total of ten (10) more school
hours the student will be dismissed from the program for excessive absences greater than
5% of the semester hours.
3. A student who misses thirty (30) school hours in a semester will meet with the STI Director.
The STI Director will dismiss the student from the program with a written program
dismissal for excessive absences greater than 5% of the semester program hours.
Extenuating Circumstances
Students who miss time due to a death in the family, hospitalization, or an extended or chronic
health issue, have an opportunity to request consideration due to extenuating circumstances. A
determination will be made by the STI Director on a case by case basis. The decision of the STI
Director is final. Students must be aware that any absence interferes with their ability to
successfully meet program requirements and outcomes.
Clinical/Externship/Lab Absence
All clinical/externship/lab absences require makeup. However, hours absent may remain as
missed time. Students who are not present during clinical/externship/lab must meet with the
Program Director/lead teacher. Mandatory makeup requirements to meet missed expectations may
be in a variety of modalities. Students may be responsible for an associated fee related to
clinical/externship/lab makeup. See individual program handbook.
Dismissal is defined as leaving the classroom or clinical area before the class or clinical day is
completed. A student with a pattern of dismissals will receive a written warning. Any student who
is being dismissed from school before the end of the schedule school time must sign out in the STI
office before leaving.
Students who arrive late or leave early from any period must sign in/out on the clipboard in the
STI Office. Students will be charged one (1) full hour increments for any fraction of an hour for
tardiness or dismissal during class or lab time.
Leave your name, the program you are attending, and your reason for being absent on the
voice mail. Students at a clinical/extern site need to follow program protocol as outlined in the
individual program handbook.
C.O.R.I.
(Criminal Offender Record Information) and Other Required Information
All students are required to complete a SERSD C.O.R.I. form. All information will be kept
confidential. Students may be required by some clinical sites to submit to fingerprinting and drug
screening. Students may also be required to submit to another C.O.R.I. by the clinical site.
Health Insurance
Students are responsible for providing proof of health insurance and maintaining medical coverage
for the duration of the program. Proof of health insurance must be provided at least one (1) week
prior to the beginning of school. Students are required to notify STI of any changes to their health
coverage.
In addition, students enrolled in health programs may be required to submit additional information
including titre results. Expenses associated with meeting medical requirements may not be
covered by insurance and are the responsibility of the student.
All considered credits must have been earned within the last three years, and be of “C” average or
above. STI will allow no more than 50% of any program to be credited by transferring credits from
another institution or “testing out”. There is no fee for the evaluation or the granting of transfer of
credit. Transfer credits (no grade) will appear on the transcript. Transfer credits are not figured
into the G.P.A. When transfer of credit has been awarded, the tuition and fees will be adjusted
accordingly.
A completed STI Transfer of Credit form must be made to the Program Director and approved by
the Program Director and the STI Director prior to the start of the semester. The request must
include an official transcript from the student’s prior institution and course descriptions in the form
of syllabi or institutional catalogs which include clock and/or credit hours. Any appeal to the
institution’s decision must be made in writing and submitted to the STI Director. The subsequent
decision will be final. Transfer of Credit forms are available from the STI office. The student is
allowed and encouraged to attend, for purposes of review, any portions of the program for which
credit has been given, as long as classroom space is available.
STI makes no guarantee of transferability of credits to another institution, but will assist the student
wishing to transfer credit by providing guidance, official transcripts, syllabi, course outlines, or
institutional catalogs when available.
Students who apply to transfer hours and credits from a program approved and in good standing
with the Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology, will be allowed to transfer credits and hours into
the STI Cosmetology Program under the following conditions:
1. All students must complete an STI application and admission testing.
2. All students must submit proof of high school graduation with an official transcript, official
GED (scores included) or Official Hi-Set (scores included). Certified translations must be
provided for transcripts supplied in a language other than English and equivalency to U.S.
education must be provided.
3. All students must submit proof of competency from their sending school in the form of
official transcripts or other documentation deemed acceptable by STI.
4. All students must complete all components of the STI admissions process including
passing the Accuplacer test, interview with the STI Director, and provide a professional
reference as part of the application process. A determination will then be made on an
individual basis regarding each student’s acceptance into the STI Cosmetology Program
and if accepted, the number of hours that will be transferred.
Cost:
1. Tuition and Fees: All students must submit proof of competency from their sending school
in the form of official transcripts or other documentation deemed acceptable by STI.
Students will pay a prorated fee amount based on accepted hours rounded to the nearest
100. Students, who have an approved cosmetology kit (as approved by the program
instructors), will have the current amount of the STI kit deducted from their fee amount.
2. Books: Students who are in possession of the version of Milady books that STI is currently
using, will not be charged for books. All other students will be charged at the current rate
for a set of Milady books.
3. Uniforms: All students must adhere to the STI Cosmetology Uniform Guidelines, and
purchase their uniforms from the uniform company designated by STI.
Attendance Warning
If a student fails to meet the cumulative 95% attendance criteria at any point during the program,
he or she will receive a written warning as specified in the Attendance Policy. During the warning
period students remain eligible for Financial Aid. Failure to correct the problem beyond the second
warning period will result in the loss of eligibility for any additional financial aid and termination
from the program.
Academic Warning
At the midpoint of each course, a student who fails to meet the minimum standard will receive
formal notification. During the warning period, students remain eligible for Financial Aid.
Students who do not meet specific program academic requirements by the end of a semester/term
will be terminated from the program.
STI provides an environment conducive to learning. STI reserves the right to dismiss a student for
disciplinary as well as academic reasons. Any of, but not limited to, the following inappropriate
behaviors will result in disciplinary action and may lead to warning, suspension or dismissal:
• Cheating
• Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment
• Destruction of school property
• Fighting
• Interfering with another student’s performance and/or ability to learn
• Lying
• Plagiarism
• Possession of firearms
• Possession of, use of, or under the influence of controlled substance or alcohol at school or
school-related activities
• Sexual Harassment
• Theft
• Use of cell phones or texting during class time or on clinical assignments
• Vandalism
• Violation of Civil Rights Law
Discipline Definitions
Warning: Student will be allowed to attend classes or school related activities under condition
of contract signed by administration and student.
Suspension: Student will be restricted from attending classes or school related activities for a
specified period of time. Student is responsible for all missed class work.
Dismissal: Student is permanently terminated from the program.
Please read our privacy policy carefully to understand how we collect, use, protect, or
otherwise handle your Personally Identifiable Information on our website. STI reserves the
right to make changes to this Website at any time.
2. Definitions
2.1. Personally Identifiable Information (PII) – as used in U.S. privacy law and information
security, is information that can be used on its own or with other information to identify,
contact, or locate a single person, or to identify an individual in context.
2.2. Cookies – Small files that a site or its service provider transfers to your computer’s hard
drive through you web browser (if you allow) that enables the site’s or service provider’s
systems to recognize your browser and capture and remember certain information.
3. Policy
3.1. STI collects information from you when you register for a tour or information session,
subscribe to a newsletter, respond to a survey, fill out a form, begin an application, surf
the website, or otherwise enter information on our site.
3.1.1. We do collect and keep PII when you voluntarily submit such information. For
example, if you choose to fill out a form on the Website we retain the information
submitted by you. You should not submit any information that you do not want to be
retained. We retain the information you submit for our records and to contact you
from time to time. Please note that if we decide to change the manner in which we
use or retain personal information, we may update this Privacy Policy.
3.2. We may use the information collected in the following ways:
3.2.1. To personalize user’s experience and to allow us to deliver the type of content and
educational services required by students.
3.2.2. To improve our website in order to serve you better.
3.2.3. To allow us to respond quickly and accurately to requests.
3.2.4. To quickly process transactions.
3.2.5. Communicate with prospective students during the admission process.
3.2.6. Communicate through emails, invitations, and newsletters for marketing purposes.
3.3. We protect PII information by scanning our website on a regular basis for security holes
and known vulnerabilities.
3.3.1. Your personal information is contained behind secured networks and is only
accessible by a limited number of persons who have special access rights to such
systems, and are required to keep the information confidential. In addition, all
sensitive/credit information you supply is encrypted via Secure Socket Layer (SSL)
technology.
3.4. We use cookies to help us compile aggregate data to offer a better site experience and
tools.
3.4.1. Understand and save user's preferences for future visits.
3.4.2. Compile aggregate data about site traffic and site interactions in order to offer better
site experiences and tools in the future. We may also use trusted third party services
that track this information on our behalf.
3.7. Google
3.7.1. Google's advertising requirements can be summed up by Google's Advertising
Principles, found here. They are put in place to provide a positive experience for
users. We have not enabled Google AdSense on our site but we may do so in the
future.
3.8. We honor Do Not Track signals and Do Not Track, plant cookies, or use advertising when
a Do Not Track (DNT) browser mechanism is in place.
3.9. FERPA
3.9.1. We also comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),
which generally prohibits the release of student education records without student
permission. However, FERPA does permit the release of public or “directory”
information about students.
Transcripts:
An unofficial transcript will be issued to the student after graduation and upon request. A copy of
the transcript is retained in the student’s record or in the electronic student information system.
Unofficial transcripts do not include the school’s official seal.
An official transcript will be issued to the student after graduation and upon request. Official
transcripts are mailed directly or given to the student in a sealed envelope for the purpose of
distribution to a school of higher education or an employer. Official transcripts include the
school’s official seal and the signature of the director. Official transcripts are generated upon
written request from the student.
Students
Students may access their records by making a request in the Southeastern Technical Institute
office. Students may review the records in a private area. Student records may not leave the office
area.
Faculty
Faculty may access student records by request from designated STI office staff. Faculty will sign
a records access sheet when removing and returning the file. Records must remain in the STI
Director’s office. The file cannot be altered.
Other
Students may give permission for another individual to access their record by completing a written
request. Individuals with permission may access student records by request from designated STI
office staff. Individuals will sign a records access sheet when removing and returning the file.
Records must remain in the STI Director’s office. The file cannot be altered.
Individual test results and coursework are maintained in the program area. Students may request
access to coursework materials through the teacher. These materials may not leave the classroom
or program office area.
All student records, coursework, and testing are property of Southeastern Technical Institute.
1. When a student gives notice of cancellation, the school shall charge the amount of at least the following
for each semester:
a. The student will be refunded their seat deposit in full if they withdraw for any reason before the
first day of class.
b. When notice of cancellation is given after the student’s completion of the first day of class
attendance, but prior to the student’s completion of 5% of the first semester, the school may retain
10% of the tuition, and 10% of fees, and 100% of the cost of the Toolkit, and books if applicable.
c. When a student has completed in excess of 5% of the first semester the school may charge part of
the tuition and other course fees in accordance with the following:
(1) During the first 20% of each semester, the school shall charge at least 30% of the tuition and
fees for that semester and 100% of the cost of the cost of the toolkit, and books if applicable.
(2) During the second 20% of each semester, the school shall charge at least 60% of the tuition and
fees for that semester and 100% of the cost of the cost of the toolkit, and books if applicable.
(3) During the third 20% of each semester, the school shall charge at least 90% of the tuition and
fees for that semester and 100% of the cost of the cost of the toolkit, and books if applicable.
(4) In cases of withdrawal after 60% of the semester, the school will charge tuition and other course
fees in full for that semester and 100% of the cost of the cost of the toolkit, and books if
applicable.
2. Students who are issued books will be charged in full for all books they receive. Books are non-returnable
and non-refundable.
3. Any case which hardship or where other circumstances beyond the control of the student exist, preventing
them from completing the course, the school shall make a reasonable and fair settlement for both parties.
4. For withdrawn students, all refunds are calculated based on the date of withdrawal and will be paid within
thirty (30) days of the documented drop date (date of determination). The documented drop date is
determined according to whichever of the following applies:
a. by the date of written notice from the student;
b. by the date of administrative/faculty withdrawal;
c. the date the student exceeds the attendance policy if no notice is given.
5. Students entitled to a refund do not need to submit a written notice of cancellation in order to receive
their refund. The unexplained absence of a student from school for more than 5% of program length
shall constitute constructive notice of cancellation to the school. For purposes of cancellation, the date
shall be the date the student exceeds the attendance policy.
6. The school shall refund all monies paid in any of the following circumstances:
a. the school did not provide the prospective student with a copy of the student’s valid enrollment
agreement and access to a current course catalog and student handbook;
b. the school cancels or discontinues the course of instruction in which the student has enrolled;
c. the school fails to conduct classes on days or times scheduled, detrimentally affecting the student.
2. You have the right to stop school at any time and you have the right to receive a prorated rate for
the part of the program not completed. Your rights are described in the Enrollment Agreement. If
you lose your Enrollment Agreement, ask the school for a copy.
3. If you have any complaints, questions, or problems with the school, which cannot be resolved by
direct negotiation with the school in accordance to its written grievance policy, call or write to:
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE), Educator and School
Development Division, Office for Career/Vocational Technical Education, 75 Pleasant Street,
Malden, MA 02148-4906 Phone: 781.338.3955 / Fax 781.338.3950 or Commission of the Council
on Occupational Education, 7840 Roswell Road, Building 300, Suite 325, Atlanta, GA 30350
Telephone: 770.396.3898 / Fax: 770.396.3790 / www.council.org
Cell Phones
There shall be no use of phones (phone calls, online access, or texting) during class, lab, or clinical
time. Phone should be turned off or silenced.
Unauthorized Photographs/Videos
Students may not take pictures and/or videotape in the classroom, lab, and clinical/externship
setting without explicit written approval according to school/agency written policy.
Dress Code
Students are required to dress appropriately for school. Each program has specific requirements
for attire during class, lab, and clinical/externship.
Library Information
The school library will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Your student I.D. badge must be
presented when borrowing books. All regulations of the library must be followed. The length of
time materials may be borrowed is determined by the library. Students with overdue materials
will be fined. Lost library materials must be paid for by the student.
Lockers
Lockers will be assigned as needed to students. Students are responsible to keep their locker clean.
All lockers must be cleaned out before the last day of class. STI is not responsible for personal
items left in lockers.
Parking Regulations
Students are allowed to drive their automobiles onto school grounds providing they conform to the
following:
Registration numbers must be listed with the STI Office.
Parking permits are issued by the STI Office.
Smoking in vehicles on school grounds is prohibited.
Students must park in the student parking lot to the left of the school.
Students are not allowed to park in spaces at the front of the building.
Student Complaints
A student with a complaint should follow the proper chain of command. Students should report
their immediate concerns to their instructor. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome, the
student should elevate their concern to the Program Director. If the student believes the problem
has not been resolved by the Program Director, then the student should make an appointment to
meet with the STI Director.
Student Activities
Student engagement is an integral part of STI. There are several opportunities throughout the year
to participate beyond the classroom. These include, but are not limited to, Community Outreach
events and volunteerism, Advisory Board meetings, Yearbook committee and health and wellness
activities.
Special Accommodations
The student seeking accommodations in his or her educational plan is responsible to provide a
written request including substantiating documentation to the STI Director.
“No otherwise qualified person with a disability in the United States shall, solely by reason of
disability, be denied the benefits of, be excluded from participating in, or be subjected to
discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance”. Section 504
of the Rehabilitation Act.
Section 504 protects the rights of qualified individuals who have disabilities such as, but not
limited to:
Blindness/visual impairment Chronic illness, such as:
Cerebral Palsy AIDS
Deafness / hearing impairment Arthritis
Epilepsy or seizure disorder Cancer
Orthopedic / mobility impairment Cardiac Disease
Specific learning disability Diabetes
Speech and language disorder Multiple sclerosis
Spinal cord injury Muscular dystrophy
Tourette’s syndrome Psychiatric disability
Traumatic brain injury
STI may not discriminate in the recruitment, admission, educational process, or treatment of
students. Students who have self-identified, provided documentation of disability, and requested
reasonable accommodations are entitled to receive approved modifications of programs,
appropriate academic adjustments, or auxiliary aids that enable them to participate in and benefit
from all educational programs and activities.
Section 504 specifies post-secondary schools may not limit the number of students with disabilities
admitted, make preadmission inquiries as to whether or not an applicant has a disability, use
admission tests or criteria that inadequately measure the academic qualification of students with
disabilities because special provisions were not made, exclude a qualified student with a disability
from any course of study, or establish rules, and policies that may adversely affect students with
disabilities.
Each program will have an established policy for determining that the students’ health will permit
them to meet the program requirements. If health status changes during the program, students will
have to provide documentation of their ability to meet program requirements subject to STI’s
obligations, if any, under Section 504.
Tutoring
Instructor tutoring is available and can be arranged by contacting the instructor to make an
appointment. Each instructor has scheduled times to assist students before or after class.
Peer tutoring may be available and can be arranged by contacting the instructor. Small group and
individual tutoring will be arranged. Peer tutors are students in excellent academic standing who
have been selected by the instructor to be peer tutors.
Students are strongly encouraged to ask for tutoring assistance at the first indication that they do
not understand what is being taught in class and not wait until they are in danger of failing.
Section 40A: Whoever gives, sells, delivers or has in his possession any alcoholic beverage, except
for medical purposes, in any public school building or on any premises used for public school
purposes and under the charge of a school committee or other public board or officer, shall be
punished by imprisonment for not more than thirty days or by a fine of not more than one hundred
dollars, or both; provided however, that a school committee of a city, or town district may authorize
a public or nonprofit organization using a public school building with its permission during non-
school hours to possess and sell alcoholic beverages therein provided such nonprofit organization
is properly licensed under the provisions of Section 14, Chapter 138.
Alcohol Use
Being under the influence of alcohol, or found guilty of the use, sale, possession, or distribution
of alcoholic beverages in the school building, school grounds, clinical externship or school
sponsored field trips is strictly prohibited.
Students found guilty by school authorities of the use, sale, possession, or distribution of alcoholic
beverages will be subject to an immediate suspension and will be subject to dismissal.
Students in violation of drug and alcohol policies while on clinical site will be subject to the
policies of the clinical site.
Being under the influence, using, selling, possessing, or distributing drugs, marijuana, and/or drug
paraphernalia, (i.e. pipes, rolling papers, etc.) in the school building or on school premises is
strictly prohibited and is subject to punishment by law.
Drug paraphernalia is all equipment, products, devices, and materials of any kind which are used
or intended for use in packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, concealing, injecting, ingesting,
or otherwise introducing into the human body a controlled substance.
The above regulation refers specifically to marijuana, hallucinogenic drugs, and narcotics of any
kind as banned by Federal and State Law.
The date for the hearing, if so requested, will not be scheduled less than five (5) days from the date
of the request by the student to be heard.
The student has the right to be present at the hearing, to be represented by counsel of his/her
choosing, to present evidence and witnesses, and to cross examine witnesses presented by the
administration.
Tobacco Policy
POLICY PERTAINING TO THE CONDUCT OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS CHAPTER
71 SECTION 37H OF THE MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL LAWS prohibit the use of any
tobacco products within the school buildings, the school facilities, on the school grounds, or on
school buses by any individual including school personnel.
Drug testing is performed by an independent, third-party provider who reviews the results, and
shares the findings with STI and/or the Placement Sites. Lab test results are kept by the screening
facility and in the office of the Director of Practical Nurse Program for the duration of enrollment.
Please note that these drug tests screen for a range of legal and illegal drugs and intoxicants,
including, but not limited to, narcotics, opiates, marijuana, and alcohol.
Failing a mandatory drug screening and/or refusal to comply with the drug testing requirements of
the Placement Site will render a student ineligible to participate in that clinical/externship program.
STI is not responsible for identifying or securing an alternative placement for students who fail or
refuse a drug screening.
I. Policy: All Southeastern Regional School District students who sustain a needle stick
injury, a cut from a sharp instrument, or a mucous membrane exposure to blood or other
body fluids must document the incident by filling out an incident report and by notifying
the Externship Supervisor and the Program Director of the incident.
For a good many years asbestos was a generally accepted building material. Over time, awareness
developed of the potential hazards of asbestos fibers if released into the air. By the mid-1980’s
health concerns associated with airborne fibers were widely recognized.
Envirotest Laboratory, Inc. recently performed the required 3-year re-inspection on March 2013.
The licensed inspector checked for the presence and condition of all visible asbestos both friable
and non-friable. (Friable asbestos is asbestos that can be broken up by hand pressure causing the
release of fibers into the air).
The inspector concluded that all visible asbestos frequented by students and staff throughout the
school were properly encapsulated and maintained. Envirotest Laboratory, Inc. and the
Southeastern Regional School District personnel are very confident that students, faculty, and staff
are not exposed to the potential hazards of airborne asbestos fibers.
The Asbestos Management Plan and recent A.H.E.R. a 3-year re-inspection report is available for
reading at the office of the Supervisor of Maintenance, Grounds and Operations during normal
business hours.
Whoever, not being a law enforcement officer, and notwithstanding any license obtained by him
under the provisions of chapter one hundred and forty, carries on his person a firearm as hereinafter
defined, loaded or unloaded or other dangerous weapon in any building or on the grounds of any
elementary or secondary school, college or university without the written authorization of the
board or officer in charge of such elementary or secondary school, college or university shall be
punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment for not more than
one year, or both. For the purpose of this paragraph, "firearm" shall mean any pistol, revolver,
rifle or smoothbore arm from which a shot, bullet, or pellet can be discharged by whatever means.
In accordance with MGL, CH. 269, S.10, students are prohibited from possessing, using, handling,
selling, or transporting any firearms or other weapons on school property or at any school
activities. Such prohibition includes certain knives, blackjacks, and other inherently dangerous
weapons.
Students in violation of this policy face arrest and prosecution under MGL, CH. 269, S .10,
immediate suspension, and possibly an exclusion hearing with the Southeastern Regional School
District Committee.
Adopted by the Southeastern Regional School District Committee on November 12, 1991.
Southeastern Regional Technical Institute hereby provides notice that it does not discriminate in
admission or employment in any of its educational programs or activities on the basis of race,
color, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, or housing status.
Enforcement of this law advances efforts to ensure that all students can attend school in a safe,
supportive environment that is conducive to serious learning.
Enforcement of this law advances efforts to ensure that all students can attend school in a safe,
supportive environment that is conducive to serious learning. This law makes it clear that all
aspects of public school education must be fully open and available to members of both sexes and
minority groups. No school may exclude a student from any course, activity, service or resource
available in that public school on account of race, color, sex, religion, national origin or sexual
orientation of such student.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sex discrimination in federally assisted
programs. "No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex be excluded from participation
in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or
activity receiving federal financial assistance."
The Southeastern Regional School District wishes to comply with Title IX and Chapter 282 and
affirms that no person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the
benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in educational activities or employment under any
educational program or activity.
The Southeastern Regional School District complies with The Americans with Disabilities Act Of
1990. The Americans with Disabilities Act includes, but is not limited to, acquired immune
deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cancer, heart disease,
mental retardation, learning disabilities, and visual and hearing impairments.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding anti-discrimination laws contact the Director at
508-230-1297.
Copies of the Anti-Discrimination Laws may be obtained from the Learning Support Services
Cluster, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA
02148-4906.
In brief, Section 504 states, "No other qualified handicapped individual shall, solely by reason of
his/her handicap, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected
to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance." Copies of
the law may be obtained from Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Government Center, J. F. Kennedy Federal Building – Room 1875, Boston, MA 02114.
The Director of Student Life has been designated as the employee responsible for coordinating the
Southeastern Regional School District's efforts to implement this nondiscriminatory policy. Any
inquiries concerning the application of Section 504 to the practices and policies of the Southeastern
Regional School District may be addressed to Director of Student Life at the Southeastern
Regional Vocational Technical School, 250 Foundry Street, S. Easton, MA, 02375 or to the
Director, Office for Civil Rights, Department of Health/Education/ Welfare, Washington, DC,
20201.
An Act Prohibiting the Practice of Hazing Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 269,
Sections 17, 18, and 19
Section 17: Whoever is a principle organizer or participant in the crime of hazing as defined herein
shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house
of correction for not more than one hundred days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
The term "hazing" as used in this section and in section eighteen shall mean any conduct or method
of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully
or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct
shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced
consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment
or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any
such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental
stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.
Section 18: Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section
seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without
danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official
as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine
of not more than five hundred dollars.
Section 19: Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of
Post-secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization
which is part of such institution, is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to
use its name or facilities, known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student
team, or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided,
however, that an institution’s compliance with this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to
unaffiliated student groups, teams, or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s
recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated groups, teams, or organizations.
Each group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and
eighteen to its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants for memberships. It shall be the duty of
each group, team, or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the
institution an attested acknowledgment stating that such group, team or organization has received
a copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes,
pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group,
team, or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and
sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary
education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who
enrolls as a full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and
eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary
education shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case
of secondary institutions, the Board of Education, certifying that such institution has complied
Position
It is the policy of the Southeastern Regional School District to maintain a learning environment
free from harassment because of an individual’s race, color, sex, national origin, national origin,
sexual orientation, or disability. The Southeastern Regional School District prohibits any and all
forms of harassment because of race, color, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability.
Any person who attends this school or any of its functions has the same rights as all other citizens.
Harassment creates a climate of fear and hostility that will not be tolerated. Any person, or group
of persons, who denies or attempts to prevent a person or persons from availing themselves of the
freedom to enjoy these rights will be dealt with as severely as the law permits.
Definition
Racial, sexual, religious/ethnic harassment and violence refers to unwelcome and unwanted
behavior related to gender, race, religion, ethnic or disability group that makes the recipient feel
afraid, embarrassed, helpless, angry or unsafe, or upsets the recipient to the point that he/she cannot
learn, cannot teach, or be effective at school or at his/her job.
Harassment and violence is prohibited between staff members, between staff members and
students, between students, and from members of the public directed at students or staff on school
property or at school-sponsored events. Some examples of harassment and violence may include,
but are not limited to: unwelcome patting, pinching, or physical contact; obscene gesturing or
calling someone gay; ethnic or racial slurs; or threats, insults, or assaults against someone due to
their gender, race, religion, ethnic group or disability.
Legal Aspects
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national
origin. Educational Institutions are responsible for preventing racial discrimination against
employees and students. Racial harassment is considered a form of discrimination under this law
and a violation of civil rights.
Federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in educational programs or activities
receiving federal financial assistance. In accordance with the requirements of Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Southeastern
Regional School District hereby makes notice that it does not discriminate in any educational
programs or activities or in employment therein. In brief, Section 504 states, “No otherwise
qualified handicapped individual shall, solely by reason of his/her handicap, be excluded from the
participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or
activity receiving federal financial assistance.” Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of
1972 and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, educational institutions are responsible for
preventing sexual discrimination against their students and employees. Sexual harassment is
considered to be a form of sex discrimination. If sexual harassment involves a minor student in a
school setting, it can be considered a criminal offense under laws relating to child abuse.
A student or a group of students who have been harassed have three options.
1. Complaints through the grievance procedure at their school.
2. Complaints through the Office of Civil Rights or equivalent state agency.
3. Civil suits.
1. Harassment complaints will be referred to the Director of Student Life who will interview the
complainant within two days from the time the report is made.
2. If the problem cannot be resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction at the Director of Student
Life’s level, the incident will be referred to the Principal.
3. If the problem cannot be resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction at the Principal’s level, the
incident will be referred to the Superintendent.
4. If the problem cannot be resolved at that level or at any time, a complaint can be made to the:
Office for Civil Rights
United States Department of Education
John McCormack Building
Room 701
Boston, MA 02109
5. Upon completion of the investigation, all incident reports will be kept on file in the Office of
the Superintendent.
Retaliation: Retaliation in any form against any person who files complaints relating to
harassment is forbidden. If it occurs it will be considered grounds for dismissal or removal from
the educational setting.
Confidentiality: Those involved with harassment investigations will protect the confidentiality of
all information relating to the case.
The following behaviors are examples of sexual harassment which are not allowed:
• Staring or leering with sexual overtones
What is Harassment?
Harassment is unwelcome behavior of a physical, written, or verbal nature, which is either repeated
or severe, and which creates a hostile, humiliating, intimidating and offensive educational
environment. Harassment is a form of discrimination. Harassment can occur staff to student,
student to staff, staff to staff.
The following behaviors are examples of harassment which are not allowed:
• Racial slurs/name calling
• Anti-gay comments
• Religious jokes and insults
If the STI Director and the advocate determine that harassment has actually taken place, the
accused will participate in a discussion on the nature of harassment and hate crimes in schools and
the workplace. Further disciplinary action may occur, depending on whether or not this is a first
incident and how serious the harassment is.
If the accused harasser is a staff member, the STI Director will establish a hearing similar to one
for a student, respecting due process. The range of discipline in this case may include discussions
with the STI Director and/or Superintendent; or further disciplinary actions, possibly dismissal,
depending on the seriousness and frequency of incidents.
Valor Act
The Valor Act is in accordance with the General Laws of Massachusetts [M.G.L. c. 15A §43(a)].
The VALOR Act II protects students enrolled of the Southeastern Technical Institute from
incurring academic or financial penalties as a result of performing military service. A student
called to or enlisting in active duty is allowed the option of completing the course(s) at a later date
without penalty, or withdrawing from the course(s) and will receive a full refund of fees and tuition
paid. If a student chooses to complete the course(s) at a later date and the course(s) is no longer
available upon the student’s return, the student will be allowed to complete a replacement course
for equivalent credit (clock hours) without penalty. If a student chooses to withdraw from the
course(s), the student’s academic record (transcript) will reflect that the withdrawal was due to
active duty military service.
General Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, also known as the Buckley Amendment,
helps protect the privacy of student records. The Act provides for the right to inspect and review
education records, the right to seek to amend those records and to limit disclosure of information
from the records. The Act applies to all institutions that are the recipients of federal funding.
FERPA is a general law that governs and protects your rights to your individual educational
records. As a student over the age of 18 years or enrolled in a post-secondary institution, your
primary rights under FERPA are:
Your right to review and inspect your educational records
Your rights to have your educational records amended or corrected
Your rights to control disclosure of certain portions of your educational records
Additional Information
FERPA coverage includes records, files, documents, and data directly related to students. The
same principles of confidentiality must be applied to electronic data and paper documents. You
can find more information about FERPA on the U.S. Department of Elementary and Secondary
Education’s website at: http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html or you may
contact the U.S Department of Elementary and Secondary Education at the address below:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920
Students will give or deny permission to release Directory Information upon enrollment.
All use of educational technology must be in support of education and research and be consistent
with the mission of the district. In addition, educational technology may only be used in a manner
consistent with federal and state law, license agreements and district policy.
Access
Network and Internet access is a privilege which requires a high level of personal responsibility
and may be denied due to inappropriate use. Inappropriate use shall include but not be limited to:
1. Using the district system for commercial and/or personal or political purposes.
2. Using the system to transmit inaccurate information.
3. Using the system to send, receive or view objectionable material.
4. Damaging the security system.
5. Using another individual's system account.
6. Forging or attempting to forge electronic mail messages.
7. Attempting to read, delete, copy or modify electronic mail of other system users.
8. Attempting to read, delete, copy or modify other user’s files.
9. Downloading of any executable files.
10. Exceeding resource quotas or disk usage quotas.
11. Vandalizing the system.
12. Violating the copyright laws.
13. Failing to follow network etiquette procedures.
14. Submitting false or misleading information to obtain or retain access to the system.
15. Accessing the system in any manner inconsistent with the mission of the school district.
16. Interfering with official school district communications.
17. Uploading of any music files or video files to the networks that are not part of an
educational assignment.
The network administrators may withdraw access at any time as required. The administration,
faculty and staff of the district may request the network administrator to deny, revoke or suspend
specific system user access.
Students under the age of 18 must have the written approval of a parent or guardian. A signed
Individual System User Release Form must be on file with the district. Student privileges will be
granted only for one academic year. Access privileges will be indicated on the student's ID card.
A signature on the Individual System User Release Form indicates that the person signing the
permission form has read and understood any supplemental information which may be provided
with the permission form.
Copyright
One of the most important issues to be addressed and taught to students is the issue of copyright
and the related areas of trademark and licensing.
System users may download material for their own use in accordance with applicable copyright
laws, district policy and administrative regulations. The Fair Use doctrine
http://www.copyright.gov/fls/fl102.html allows an individual to reproduce portions of copyrighted
work for non-commercial purposes, in some instances. Reproduction beyond fair use requires the
permission of the copyright holder or authorized person. The permission must be specified in the
document or must be obtained directly from the author in accordance with applicable copyright
laws, district policy and administrative regulations. Violations of copyright law could lead to civil
liability with excessive penalties.
Liability
Access by the district to the system will be through the establishment of individual accounts. The
use of the accounts constitutes acceptance of the account and agreement by the system user to
abide by the rules of conduct and to assume responsibility for the content of that account.
The district does not warrant that the functions and services performed by or the information or
software contained in the educational technology resources will meet the system user's
requirements or that the system will be uninterrupted or error-free, or that defects will be corrected.
The district's system is provided on an "as is, as available" basis. The district does not make any
warranties, whether expressed or implied including, without limitation, those of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any services provided by the system and any
information or software contained therein.
Student permission forms shall include a provision that the student and his/her parents or guardians
will hold the district harmless from student violations of copyright laws, software licensing
requirements, student access of inappropriate materials, violations by the student of others' rights
to confidentiality, free speech and privacy, and damage to systems accessed by the student.
Discipline
Appropriate discipline for student violations will be determined by the principal or the principal's
designee. Violations of the acceptable use guidelines, any district policy or procedure, or any
federal or state law, rule or regulation may result in disciplinary action up to and including
In order to achieve this purpose we understand that both the individuals using technology and the
School have certain responsibilities.
Violating any portion of this agreement may result in disciplinary review, including possible
suspension or expulsion from S.R.S.D. and/or legal action. S.R.S.D. will cooperate fully with law
enforcement officials in any investigation related to any potentially illegal activities conducted
through our network. The school reserves the right to apply disciplinary consequences for
computer-related activities conducted off-campus if such activity adversely affects the safety or
well-being of students or other members of our community or constitutes behavior embarrassing
to the school.
Online Behavior
• I understand that as a member of the S.R.S.D. community, my actions could reflect on the
school. In all of my online communication, I will be respectful and polite. This includes,
but is not limited to: email, chat, instant-messaging, texting, gaming and social networking
sites.
• If I am uncertain whether a specific computer activity is permitted or appropriate, I will
ask a teacher, administrator or the technology department before engaging in that activity.
Privacy
Cyber Bullying
• Cyber Bullying is when the Internet, cell phones or other devices are used to send or post
text or images intended to hurt or embarrass another person.
• I will not intentionally hurt or embarrass another person or group with my technology use
as described above.
• I will notify a counselor, teacher, or technology department member immediately if I
become aware of any behavior that may hurt or embarrass another person or group through
the use of technology.
Limitation of Liability
S.R.S.D. takes precautions to restrict access to objectionable material online, but it is not possible
to have full control over access to resources and materials on the internet. S.R.S.D. reserves the
right to block content that negatively impacts the academic performance of students. S.R.S.D.
cannot guarantee that network services will be without error. The school will not be responsible
for any lost data or interrupted service caused by malfunction, negligence, or omission. S.R.S.D.
is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the network. The
school will not be responsible for financial obligations arising from unauthorized use of the
network.
Please note:
Any concerns regarding student or faculty use of technology may be confidentially reported to the
Director of Technology in addition to the resources mentioned above.
Limiting access to postings through privacy settings does not ensure privacy. Access and Privacy
settings can be breached which could result in the printing and distribution of personal
postings. Potential employers, patients, families, coworkers, fellow students, and faculty may
gain access to postings without the student’s knowledge or permission.
Southeastern Technical Institute complies with all Federal and State regulations including the
Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance and Portability
Accountability Act (HIPAA). Therefore, the posting of digital images or sharing information is
prohibited without the permission of the student and instructor.
Policies related to HIPAA, patient confidentiality, and harassment contained within the STI
Student Handbook and Catalog also apply to all communication via social networking sites.
The taking of photographs or capturing digital images of any kind in a clinical patient care unit or
within a clinical facility is prohibited. Information posted on a social networking site or
transmitted via email that leads to the identification of patients/clients or a facility or agency or
reveals confidential information is a serious breach of professional conduct. Any references to
patients employees or a facility or agency by an STI student, that could result in identification of
specific individuals or facilities is prohibited even if a HIPAA violation has not occurred.
Disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the program, will be imposed upon students
who violate the social media guidelines.
by all information in the STI Student Handbook, and the individual program policies. I understand that
program specific policies and procedures supercede all information in the STI student handbook.
_____________________________ _____________________
Student Signature Date
Student Exposure Control Policy Waiver Clause
As a student, I have read the Exposure Control Policy: Accidental Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure to STI
Students. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Southeast Regional School District for any liability,
legal or otherwise, incurred as the result of any violations of the policy committed by me. I understand the
penalties and disciplinary action that may occur if the Exposure Control Policy is violated.
______________________________ ______________________
Student Signature Date
Student Network Acceptable Use and Technology Resposible Use Waiver Clause
I understand and will abide by the Southeastern Regional School District Network Acceptable Use
Guidelines and by the Southeastern Regional School District Technology Responsible Use Agreement. I
further understand that any violation of the guidelines is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense.
Should I commit any violation, school disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action will be taken.
______________________________ ______________________
Student Signature Date
Student Attendance Policy
As a student, I have read and I understand the STI attendance policy. I understand that if my unexcused
absences, tardiness or dismissals go beyond the days or hours outlined within the student handbook; I will
be dismissed from my program for excessive absenteeism. Furthermore, I understand that if I exceed my
clinical/externship absence limit, I may be referred for dismissal from the program or with the Program STI
Director’s approval, I will need to pay for additional clinical/externship hours (based on program and
instructor availability) to fulfill the program requirements of my program.
______________________________ ______________________
Student Signature Date
Student Photo/Video Release
As a student, I understand that I may be photographed or video taped during school and school related
events, such as but not limited to: Open Houses, Graduation, clinical experiences, Student Council events,
community service activities, etc. I give my consent for the Southeastern Regional School District to use
these photographs or videos for educational, public relations, or informational purposes.
______________________________ ______________________
Student Signature Date
STI Clinical/Externship Drug Policy
I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the STI Clinical/Externship Drug Policy. I understand the
penalties that may occur if the STI Clinical/Externship Drug Policy is violated.
____________________________ __________________________
Student Signature Date