6145.5

Instruction

Student Government/Organizations/Associations

To encourage student participation in school life and to provide opportunity experiences in democratic processes, Preston Plains Middle School shall attempt to maintain and operate student council.  Student government shall be of the students, by the students, in communications with the administration and in the organization of student activities.  The student council shall assist in improving the general welfare of all students and shall offer students opportunities to participate in the  democratic process.

Student Council Members shall be elected democratically and their rights and responsibilities clearly set forth. Faculty advisors for student council will be appointed by the Principal.Student councils shall not have authority to make policies for the district or regulations for the school, nor shall they have any disciplinary authority, except for recommending removal from the council of one of their members. However, a council may make recommendations to the Principal on any topic of student concern.The Principal and student council shall keep channels of communication open, not only between themselves, but between all students, the council, and the Board of Education.

Student Organizations and Associations

Student organizations and associations which contribute to learning shall be encouraged and shall operate within the framework of the law, Board policy, administrative rules, and the parameters of existing educational programs. The staff shall assist in the establishment and operation of worthwhile student organizations and associations.The Superintendent shall develop general guidelines for student organizations. Among other provisions, such guidelines shall require the assignment of at least one faculty advisor to each student organization and the approval by the Board of Education of any student organization.This policy applies to in-school organizations only. It is not intended to restrict the organization of students into groups which function apart from the school.

Non-School Organizations

All organizations not specifically authorized and organized by the school are non-school organizations and beyond the jurisdiction and responsibility of school authorities.  However, should these groups conduct activities on school property, at school-sponsored activities, or as a carry-over into the school day, or reflect on the reputation of the school, the superintendent may develop disciplinary rules and regulations.

Activities contrary to the best interests of the school or which reflect on the reputation of the school are forbidden -- including initiations and hazing on school grounds or at school-sponsored events and conducting or participating in activities on school grounds which violate federal, state, or city laws or county ordinances, or Board of Education policies or administrative regulations.

Policy adopted:   12/13/10