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Letter from the Executive Director
On behalf of everyone that lives and works at the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, we are excited to have you as part of the Penguin Family! MSSM is an intentional learning community providing a top-notch academic program in a vibrant and supportive residential community. I’m confident that you’ll find your time at MSSM rewarding and life changing.
If you are new to MSSM, I’m sure that you will find many things unique to this special place. Dig in, ask questions, and find ways to engage in the community and you will quickly find how valued you are as a member of the MSSM community. If you are returning, you are familiar with our community and I encourage you to welcome your new schoolmates as you were welcomed in your first year.
This handbook outlines many of the rules and expectations of being a member of our School community. It may seem like an overwhelming amount of detail and information, but as you spend time experiencing all that is MSSM you will find that the expectations and rules contained in these pages are based in our commitment to creating a supportive community and a rigorous academic program. Everything outlined in this Community Handbook is a natural extension of the way we live together in our intentional learning community.
Our goal through this handbook is to establish a shared set of expectations that sets each and every student up for success. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a campus adult. Your advisor is a great starting place, and you should feel comfortable coming to any member of the administration. We want to hear from you and we want to clarify any questions you may have - when we share an understanding of our expectations for living in community the possibilities are endless!
Welcome home and I look forward to a great year!
Mission Statement and Philosophy
The Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) brings together and helps a group of Maine's most academically motivated high school students become innovative, well-rounded scholars with the ability to develop, investigate, and communicate critical ideas that improve the human condition and benefit the state of Maine. The school builds and shares a rigorous curriculum that exceeds state educational standards while emphasizing connections between science, mathematics, and the humanities. MSSM extends its mission by fostering a statewide, year-round community of innovative learners that includes many of Maine's students, educators, and the general public.
Vision
MSSM achieves its mission by:
- Providing a rigorous, immersive, student-centered curriculum that emphasizes the connections between math, science, and the humanities; including post-AP courses; and culminating in opportunities for authentic research and community service;
- Presenting students with supportive opportunities to realize their personal and professional aspirations in Maine both through nurturing, challenging on-campus programs and through partnerships with research and higher education institutions throughout the state and beyond;
- Creating a supportive, residential environment and academic community that promotes personal development, leadership, service, and academic success; and
- Developing special programs to inspire younger students while also serving as a professional development partner for Maine's teaching community.
Philosophy
The administration, faculty, staff, and Board of Trustees of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) are committed to providing academic excellence to enhance previous student knowledge, as well as to prepare students for future studies. The opportunity to attend MSSM is a privilege, and each student can make the most of this experience by being dedicated to the academic and residential programs. Graduates of MSSM have experienced a well-defined curriculum based upon academic standards fostering both academic discipline and honesty.
All students live in residence to fully participate in this scholastic program of excellence with students who share similar interests. The nurturing of this educational community - the integration of the academic and residential components - is crucial to success at MSSM. Students are responsible for taking advantage of the academic and extra-curricular pursuits available at MSSM and for supporting community members in both their academic and personal development.
History of MSSM
Following the closure of the Loring Air Force Base in Limestone, Maine, the Defense Reauthorization Bill awarded $1 million to the creation of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics. The funding was used to convert the former Limestone Elementary School into a dorm for 150 Maine students. MSSM opened in the fall of 1995, sharing its facilities with the Limestone Community School.
Renowned for its quirky culture and advanced course offerings, MSSM remains the only magnet school currently operating in the state of Maine. In 2019, MSSM was ranked the #2 public high school by US News and World Report and continues to rank regionally and nationally by Niche.com. MSSM is ranked as the #1 Best Public High School in the state of Maine and the #5 Best Public High School Teachers in America by Niche.com.
Communication
MSSM recognizes the importance of timely and transparent communication. To facilitate this, we publish information through the following means:
- Announcements at dorm meetings, wing meetings, and advisory lunch
- Emails
- MSSM Website
- MSSM Facebook Page
- MSSM Calendars
- Traditional Bulletin Boards
Any creation, or use of a publication, website, or social media account using the name, Maine School of Science Mathematics, its abbreviation (MSSM), or its logos must be approved by the Executive Director/designee.
With the involvement of the Student Senate, MSSM Administration has established a minimum amount of notification time for students regarding routine campus events:
- Action and Preparation Required: 2 weeks before event
- Attendance Required: 48 hours before event
- Policy Change or Decision: Upon Implementation
We strive to be readily available to answer questions and receive feedback from each member of our community. If there is a problem, concern, or conflict, all are encouraged to start communicating as close to the source as possible. Those immediately involved are in the best position to act quickly and effectively. Only when those attempts have been exhaustively pursued are individuals encouraged to broaden the scope of involvement. Parents/legal guardians are urged to help their children become skilled and confident self-advocates by encouraging them to voice any questions or concerns to the appropriate staff member. We recognize that face-to-face communication is ideal, but when it is not possible, phone and email can be effective alternatives.
The MSSM Experience
About MSSM
We are a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) magnet residential high school for scholars in grades 9-12 who enjoy stretching their brains in new and challenging directions. Our students hail from across the state of Maine and around the world. They come for inquiry, camaraderie, and a unique high school experience. Here students, staff, and faculty engage in energetic intellectual sparring served up with encouragement and support.
Why Limestone?
Following the 1994 closure of Loring Air Force Base, the Maine State Legislature chartered and funded the Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) at the site of the Limestone High School. MSSM also acquired the former nearby elementary school and promptly converted it into a 150-bed dormitory. The fall of 2017 saw the first time we hosted our own varsity athletic program independent from the Limestone Eagles, LCS, as they recently merged with Caribou High School. The MSSM Penguins enjoy three varsity-level athletic teams in all three seasons, both boys and girls. The inaugural fall season bodes well for our scholar-athletes as both soccer teams qualified for the playoffs while several of the cross-country runners advanced to the State meet. In 2022, both boys' and girls’ volleyball teams won All-Aroostook Championship.
National Ranking
Throughout the years, MSSM continues to rank strongly in such publications as US News and World Report ranking as high as number two in the nation in 2019. As a member of the National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools (NCSSS), MSSM strives to remain current in STEM education.
Academics
The academic staff consists of Full- and Part-time Faculty, the Student Academic Support Coordinator, the 504 Coordinator, the Special Education Consultant, and the Registrar. Division Leaders for STEM (Mathematics, Science, Computer Science, and Engineering) and Humanities (English, Social Studies, World Languages, and Fine Arts) oversee the faculty.
Academic Integrity
At MSSM, students and staff take great pride in academic honesty and a supportive academic environment. All are expected to maintain habits of rigorous debate, healthy inquiry, and the vigorous pursuit of truth. Academic dishonesty, in any of its forms, disrupts the learning process and tarnishes the integrity of our community. As a result, MSSM will treat instances of academic dishonesty very seriously.
If an instructor grants permission, students may collaborate in completing assignments and homework. Any unauthorized collaboration, copying, using of notes on exams/major assessments, storing of non-permitted information on calculators or on computers, or any other unacceptable activity that gives a student or a group of students advantages over others is cheating and will not be tolerated.
While the assimilation of ideas from many sources is basic to academic research and intellectual development, students must always reference the use of any non-original materials. Failure to do so is plagiarism, and this dishonesty impairs an instructor's ability to evaluate a student's performance. Plagiarism is using someone else's ideas, wording, or data without proper or complete acknowledgment. Credit must be given for ideas and information that belongs to someone else, whether it is quoted, summarized, or paraphrased. Faculty members may require that notes, drafts, and a list of sources be submitted along with the finished project. Failure to provide evidence of the work process may constitute an admission of plagiarism.
If students have questions regarding the use of materials or the appropriateness of their use, they should consult the appropriate faculty member. The following list provides an overview of some situations that are considered inappropriate use of materials:
- The verbatim reproduction or rephrasing of the content of any source that is not original as if it were one's own;
- Use of AI (ChatGPT, or similar) at any point in the process of creating work that will be turned in for a grade (unless explicitly approved by the instructor);
- The use of any thought, research, organization of material, presentation, or phrasing of another person as if it were one's own — i.e., using a source without proper credit;
- The use of another person's laboratory data or conclusions without documenting that use;
- Falsifying data or research;
- Accessing and using online answer keys to complete assignments;
- Any collaboration on assignments which are intended to be completed independently;
- Copying the work or answers of others on assignments or tests;
- Allowing others to copy one's work or answers on assignments or tests;
- Sharing test questions or answers with another student; and
- Multiple submissions of one's own work from another school or another class are not permissible, unless the work is the product of an interdisciplinary assignment with permission from both instructors — (For example: a student cannot take a paper that he/she did in English and submit it for a History class).
Investigations of academic dishonesty will begin with the class instructor. The advisor, Division Leader, and parent/guardian will be informed if there is reason to believe a student has violated the academic honesty policy. The student’s advisor will assist the student in navigating the process involved in investigating situations of academic dishonesty. If a student is found to have committed academic dishonesty (after an investigation by the Division Leader, advisor, and course instructor), that information (and appropriate penalty) will be reported to the parent/guardian, Director of Residential Life, and Executive Director, and will be recorded in the student information system. Typically, the penalty for a first instance of academic dishonesty will be based on language in the instructor’s syllabus. A second infraction will be treated as a school violation and forwarded to MSSM’s Disciplinary Committee,, while a third infraction will likely result in dismissal from MSSM. Disciplinary actions may be reported to colleges.
Student Educational Records
MSSM is in compliance with all State and Federal rules and regulations regarding student information, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Two of MSSM's policies that parents/legal guardians and students should be familiar with are Student Educational Records (Policy Code JRA) and Notification of Rights Under FERPA (Policy Code JRA-E). They can be found on the MSSM website under the Board of Trustees Policies and Bylaws section of the webpage.
Academic Expectations
All students should dedicate themselves to fulfilling the potential which MSSM recognized through their initial acceptances as students. Students, regardless of ability or grades, are expected to adhere to the philosophy of MSSM, which requires a total effort toward maximizing learning and a commitment to academic integrity. A high level of effort and exemplary attitude toward the learning process generally equates to success at MSSM. Students who are not able to meet the School's expectations may be encouraged to withdraw or may be dismissed from MSSM.
Graduation Requirements
Students receive an MSSM diploma by successfully completing MSSM's graduation requirements. Students earn a one-half credit for each one-semester course in which they earn a passing grade for the semester. Students earn 1 credit for each year-long course in which they earn a passing grade for the year. Students who do not pass a year-long course for the year will not receive any credit and must repeat the entire course. No partial credit shall be awarded for any course.
In order to receive an MSSM diploma, students must have successfully completed the following credits (1 credit equals one year) and have met all of the (additional enrollment) requirements outlined below. High School classes taken prior to enrollment at MSSM can be transferred in (see ‘transfer credits’ under ‘Course of Study’ below) to meet some of these requirements. Once enrolled, graduation requirements can only be met by classes offered at MSSM.
Students earn a ½ credit for each one-semester course in which they earn a passing grade, while students earn 1 credit for each year-long course in which they earn a passing grade for the year. Students who do not pass year-long courses for the year will not receive any credit and must repeat the entire course. No partial credit shall be awarded for any course.
Credits
- 4 Mathematics (with a minimum of Calculus)
- 4 lab-based sciences (including one credit each of biology, chemistry, and physics)
- 4 English (including 1 credit of MSSM Composition and Research (at any level)
- 1 US History
- 1 Social Science elective
- 2 World Language (the same language)
- 1 Fine Arts
- ½ Junior Seminar
- ½ Senior Seminar
- ½ First Year Seminar
- ½ Wellness ( a.k.a. Health)
Note:*Beginning with the class of 2021, seniors who have completed either AP Calculus BC OR both AP Calculus AB and AP Statistics may petition to be exempted from the annual mathematics requirement. The goal of any exemption is to create an opportunity for further academic exploration by the student. For more information, students are advised to speak with the STEM Division Leader, their advisor, and math teacher.
Additional Enrollment Requirements
Students must be enrolled in a minimum of 4 MSSM core classes each semester which must include mathematics, laboratory science, and English. At MSSM, other core classes include any social science, computer science, and/or world language classes, as well as electives in math, science, and English. Certain fine arts courses that are cross-referenced with other departments may be considered core courses.
Students must successfully complete a work assignment semester at MSSM. Students must also complete one semester of Fitness each year.
Students must successfully complete J-Term each year at MSSM.
First-year freshmen and sophomores are limited to 4 core courses during their first semester at MSSM.
Course of Study
Placement
Placement of first-year students will be determined by students' transcripts, past work, Admissions tests in math and English, and MSSM placement exam results. Subsequent placements for math, science, English, and world languages will be determined by each content area based on performance while at MSSM.
Transfer credits
The maximum number of high school mathematics, science, and English classes a student may transfer to MSSM depends upon entry grade to MSSM.
- Freshmen - None
- Sophomore - 1 math, 1 science, 1 English
- Junior - 2 math, 2 science, 2 English
- Senior - 3 math, 3 science, 3 English
These, plus credits of world language, social science, and fine arts, will transfer to MSSM provided the student earned a C- or better, or demonstrated proficiency (by a proficiency-based report card) in the courses.
MSSM does not grant credit for courses taken at another high school while a student is enrolled at MSSM.
After entering MSSM, transferred credits are limited to pre-approved courses taken at a college or university. These credits cannot replace an MSSM graduation requirement, unless taken to replace a failed MSSM course.
The Division Leaders will need to approve these courses. Students will only receive credit for courses in which a grade of C- or better is earned. This applies to a course taken at the student's initiative and/or to a course being repeated as required by the school when a student fails to earn a C- or better in a course. Transferred courses will be documented as such in the student’s Transcript Analysis Form, maintained by the Registrar.
Course Requests
Course requests start with the academic advisor. Advisees will meet with their advisors to review their placement recommendations and transcript analysis forms. Transcript analysis forms help the Registrar and student advisors to track classes taken/required for graduation. After discussion, students and advisors will complete a course request form. Students are required to take classes at their placement level.
Any student requesting more than 5 core classes or 2 AP classes requires an approved overload permission form. These forms are provided by the academic advisor and completed in conjunction with the student, the student's advisor, relevant teachers, and the student's parents/legal guardians. Overload approvals are done by the Division Leaders. In order to enroll in a course that requires a prerequisite, students must earn at least a grade of C- in the prerequisite, or receive department permission. Advisors will send copies of course requests to students and families.
Add/Drop
The procedure for adding/dropping a class begins with the academic advisor. After a conversation with the advisor, the student confirms the request via email to the advisor and parents/legal guardians. The advisor then confirms with the instructor(s) and submits the request to the Registrar using the Add/Drop Google Form. The deadlines and guidelines for adding and/or dropping courses are as follows:
- Deadline to add: seventh class day of a semester
- Deadline to drop without a grade: twenty-fourth day of a semester
- After the twenty-fourth class day of a semester, withdrawal from courses will be shown on students' transcripts with the indicator of W for withdrawal plus an indication of the letter grade on the date the student withdraws
- Faculty-initiated add/drop may occur after the sixth week of a semester with the approval of the respective Division Leader in consultation with the advisor and appropriate faculty members
- No class changes are permitted after the Academic Updates are released, other than faculty-initiated level changes
- Any overloads initiated in the Add period must follow the same procedure as outlined above
Work Assignment
MSSM believes in the importance of being a positive and active member of the MSSM community. Work assignments provide MSSM students with a formal opportunity to engage in that role. All students are required to participate in a campus work assignment for two hours each week. Work duties are generally based upon a mutual request by students and supervisors.
The Director of Residential Life oversees the work assignments and is responsible for finalizing assignments and communicating with campus work program supervisors regarding students' performance, attendance, attitude, and punctuality.
Students needing to miss their scheduled work assignments must notify their supervisors at least 24 hours in advance. If students have conflicts with other school commitments, they must switch shifts with other students or arrange to work at different times. Changes must be approved by work assignment supervisors. Scheduled shifts that fall on breaks or vacation days are not required to be made up.
Seniors who receive an F in the spring semester do not receive their diplomas until they have satisfactorily completed a term's worth of work.
Independent Studies
Independent studies are designed to provide additional challenges for students with exceptional interest in a given topic not available to them in MSSM’s regular course offerings. Independent study classes are reserved for students with a proven record of academic excellence, including the demonstrated ability to work independently. Students must make arrangements to meet with the appropriate instructors to develop independent study proposals.
The completed proposal should be submitted to the Division Leaders as part of course registration for the following semester (link to proposal form). The Division Leaders to consider approval of the independent study class. The following information should be considered when submitting a proposal for independent study:
- An independent study class may not be used as credit for a specific core class (ie “chemistry”) required for graduation;
- In general, students will be allowed to participate in only one independent study class per semester;
- An independent study class may not serve as an option for acquiring credit lost through a failed course except under extenuating circumstances;
- Depending on the nature of the independent study, the class may or may not count towards a student’s academic load;
- The product of the independent study (paper, artwork, etc.) will be presented to the MSSM Community at the end of the semester;
- Students are not eligible for independent study classes during their first year at MSSM;
- Students have until the end of the semester to complete the independent study class. If not completed by that time, a grade of F will be recorded;
Concurrent College Enrollment
University of Maine at Presque Isle Credit
Under a Partnership Agreement(MOU) with the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI), MSSM students may receive college credit for many of their MSSM classes. An MSSM student who wishes to receive UMPI credit for an MSSM course must be matriculated and deemed eligible for any relevant coursework according to MSSM's placement procedures. MSSM students not matriculating in the UMPI Liberal Arts A.A. Program (see below) will receive 12 credit hours per academic year tuition-free as outlined by the Maine Department of Education. However, any credit hours over 12 will be charged the Early College per credit hour rate set by the University of Maine system per credit hour.
Associate's Degree Program
Students interested in pursuing an associate's degree should arrange a meeting with the MSSM Registrar. As part of that process, students will develop a plan that will specify the courses required at each institution, with equivalent courses noted, to earn an Associate of Arts at UMPI and a diploma at MSSM. In the weeks following graduation from MSSM, students who have successfully completed all qualifications for the Science and Mathematics concentration within the Liberal Studies plan of study (minimum of 64 UMPI credit hours or their equivalent) shall receive an Associate of the Arts degree from UMPI.
- Student Enrollment: Concurrent enrollment is initiated via ExplorEC, the portal for Early College at Maine's Public Universities. Once students register through the Early College program, they can select from a list of available UMPI/MSSM Dual Enrollment courses. Students seeking dual enrollment credits must be officially enrolled at UMPI for the course during the semester the course is offered - no credits can be awarded retroactively.
- Reporting of Grades: The instructor of each UMPI concurrent enrollment course will submit their grades to to the ExplorEC portal by the deadline established by the UMaine System.
- Student Services: Concurrent enrollment students will have access to all college academic and student support services, including, but not limited to, libraries, electronic library resources, writing centers, tutorial services, assessment, admissions, and academic advisement. Some services are available only on UMPI’s campus. Concurrent enrollment students will be issued a free UMPI ID card that is good for 3 years - a replacement charge for lost IDs will be assessed. Students have the option of purchasing a sticker at the UMPI designated price to utilize the Gentile Hall facilities. Students with disabilities may be provided services as identified by their IEP through the high school. At no time may accommodations exceed those offered by UMPI as a college-level course, or exceed those allowable by law.
- Transcripts: MSSM students wishing to receive transcripts of their UMPI credits may do so by submitting a Transcript Request to the UMPI Registrar’s Office.
- Leaves of Absence/Withdrawals: MSSM will notify the UMPI Registrar in writing if a student is granted a leave of absence or withdraws from an UMPI concurrent enrollment course. If the student does so prior to UMPI MSSM’s deadline for add/drop withdrawing from a class, then the UMPI Registrar will not enter a grade for the course. If the student does so after UMPI MSSM’s deadline, then the UMPI Registrar will assign a “W/grade” for the course.
- Financial Considerations: MSSM students who are matriculating in the UMPI Liberal Arts A.A. Program will be charged the Early College rate per credit hour for credit hours over the 12 credit hours offered free, but only for courses outlined in the Liberal Arts A.A. Program agreement between UMPI and MSSM. Any courses taken outside of the UMPI Liberal Arts A.A. Program will be charged the Early College rate.
MSSM Dual Enrollment Program
University of New England (UNE) Transfer Partnership Program
In this partner program, MSSM students who earn college credit with Maine School of Science and Mathematics Advanced Placement (AP) courses and transfer credits from the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) get a head start on a bachelor’s degree at the University of New England.
By completing designated AP and UMPI courses, students receive priority consideration for admission and merit scholarships to enter with sophomore standing at the University of New England. The information that follows is taken directly from the UNE Partnership Program flier.
Qualifying scores necessary to receive credit for advanced placement are recommended by the academic departments and are approved by the University Registrar. They are treated as transfer credits in accordance with the following table.
Non-MOU College Classes taken for MSSM Credit
Students desiring to be concurrently enrolled in college classes while at MSSM must obtain permission and signatures of their academic advisor and appropriate Division Leader. These additional college classes are not considered part of a student’s normal MSSM course load, so students still need to be enrolled in a minimum of 4 core MSSM classes. These courses do, however, count towards a student’s core class total which means approval of an overload may be required. It is highly likely that students will not be approved to take more than one non-MOU class per semester. Students and their families shall pay all fees for courses not offered by MSSM.
Student Support and Resources
Academic Supports
MSSM strives to provide students with the support they need to develop and implement life-long skills required for the challenges at MSSM and beyond. MSSM is committed to student success and provides numerous academic supports available to all students.
Student Services
MSSM provides special services for qualified students through 504 Plans and Individualized Educational Plans (IEP's). Students who feel they might benefit from these services are encouraged to meet with their advisor.
First Year Seminar
All first-year students are enrolled in First Year Seminar during the fall semester. The goal of this course is to ensure students have the academic and residential skills needed to be successful at MSSM. In addition to being a key support program for new students, First Year Seminar meets the requirements for the UMPI AA degree in Liberal Studies (University 101).
Faculty Office Hours
Each full-time faculty provides a minimum of three scheduled office hours each week and often more by appointment. Students do not need an appointment to drop in and ask questions or do work in the classroom during office hours. All MSSM students are encouraged to take advantage of faculty office hours.
Advisory Program
Each student is assigned to an Advisory Group led by a member of the faculty. MSSM students stay with this group and Advisor during their time at MSSM, developing close relationships with all members. The Advisor plays an important role in a student's experience, helping them navigate not only their classes and coursework but also the interpersonal ups and downs that come with being a member of a residential boarding community. Advisors assist students with class selection, serve as a student's primary academic point person, act as an advocate for the student, a liaison for parents/guardians and the school, and can initiate academic supports for struggling students.
Advisory Lunch takes place every Tuesday during the lunch block. During this time, students sit with their Advisory Groups and check in on each other. Schoolwide announcements are made by the Advisory Coordinator and other members of the community, birthdays are celebrated, and special contests may even take place. At the end of the lunch period, Advisory Groups return to an Advisor's classroom for an additional sit-down period to go over upcoming academic events, check in with each other, and play some trivia!
Advisory Lunch takes place every Tuesday during the lunch block. During this time, students sit with their Advisory Groups and check in on each other. Schoolwide announcements are made by the Advisory Coordinator and other members of the community, birthdays are celebrated, and special contests may even take place. At the end of the lunch period, Advisory Groups return to an Advisor's classroom for an additional sit-down period to go over upcoming academic events, check in with each other, and play some trivia!
The Advisory Program is a holistic way for faculty to keep an eye on all of our wonderful students while also serving as a means to foster an even deeper sense of community. Outside of academics, Advisors are there to help students feel welcomed by organizing regular outings and other events with the Advisory Groups. Each Group also has opportunities to gain Advisory Points by participating in regular games and activities, and simply by being a positive member of the community. By emphasizing academic success coupled with socio-emotional support, MSSM's Advisory Program adds a robust extra layer of care to each student's experience!
Counseling and Wellness
Counseling
Counseling at MSSM is dedicated to providing social, emotional, and intellectual support for all MSSM students. The School has a full time social worker Counselors who plays an important role in supporting students as they adjust to life on a residential campus with a stimulating academic program. The School also has a full time academic support coordinator available to meet with students to provide academic and social-emotional support. Counselors are available to help students process the rigors and stressors of academics, living away from home, and develop skills and strategies to help with anxiety, stress, and other social/emotional concerns. For those students that need regular therapeutic support, MSSM’s social worker can work with the student and family to refer and coordinate care from a therapist.
Wellness Programming
MSSM is committed to student wellness and offers personnel and activities to support students in this area. The School has a full-time nurse available during the day to meet with students and employees to develop plans for students. The Residential Life staff works with student groups to offer a wide range of activities designed to promote and facilitate student wellness. During their time at MSSM, students complete a Maine standards based health class and they take a fitness class each year. MSSM also maintains a Sensory Room where students can meditate, relax, and regroup during stressful times.
Learning Commons
MSSM's Learning Commons (LC) is located in the LCS/MSSM Library and provides a quiet and constructive space to work on assignments, study, and work in small groups. There, MSSM's Academic Support Coordinator is available for a wide variety of general assistance, such as locating appropriate resources, developing schedules, and bolstering time management skills.
In the Learning Commons, students have access to three study rooms (upstairs) as study breakout rooms. The on-duty Student Support Coordinator can provide study groups access to these rooms. When not using breakout rooms, some study groups choose to meet in the MSSM Computer Lab (also above the Learning Commons), which is a great space for larger group work.
The Learning Commons is open to all students during study hours and throughout most weekdays. The schedule is posted outside of the library.
Tutoring Program
As an institution dedicated to academic excellence, MSSM takes great pride in its tutoring program and considers it an outstanding leadership opportunity. Each weeknight (Sunday-Thursday) during the Penguin Study period, student tutors are available in the Learning Commons and in the Dorm's lower lounge to provide academic support to students in most subjects offered at MSSM.
The tutors are all experienced MSSM students who have successfully navigated the academic rigors of at least one year at the school and have shown themselves to be skilled in offering constructive support. Students may serve as tutors for multiple years and may do so as their work assignment or as a volunteer.After providing feedback and help as appropriate, they document their assistance in a shared document, giving the faculty and staff access to the amount and type of help that individual students receive outside of class.
Penguin Study Time
Penguin Study is a dedicated ninety minute evening time block, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., providing all students an opportunity to focus on their academics and help them achieve success at MSSM. Penguin Study is scheduled five days each week, Sunday to Thursday. During this time all students need to either be in their rooms (with doors open), in academic spaces in the Dorm’s lower lounge, or in the Learning Commons in the academic building. Students who have been identified as needing extra academic supports (C or below at one of the grade reporting periods, or request of advisor and/or parent) will be required to do their Penguin Study in the LC. Those with evening classes and/or athletic event commitments are excused from the portion of Penguin Study they may miss.
Note: It is not intended that established study hours are the only times students should study. To be successful, students need to set aside additional study time each day
Academic Team Meetings
Students who are failing a core course, or who have more than one C in core classes on their Progress Reports or Academic Updates, will have a Team Meeting with their advisor(s), the appropriate staff, and the parents/legal guardians to discuss the academic struggles that the student is encountering at MSSM. Any of these individuals may request team meetings or other additional supports at any time. The Academic Team meetings are organized and facilitated by MSSM’s Student Support Coordinator. At this meeting, an academic plan is developed and put into place. Additional team meetings will follow if necessary. Some of the supports in this plan could be—, but are not limited to—the following:
- Mandatory office hours
- Penguin Study in the Learning Commons
- Tutoring sessions with student tutors during study hours
Because we believe the best interest of the student may vary on a case-by-case basis, we do consider many variables when determining when to add or remove academic supports. Some of these variables these variable may include:
- Year in School
- Year at MSSM
- Recent Academic Performance
- Past Academic Performance
- Course Load
- Extracurricular Commitments
- Personal Circumstances
Other Academic Info
Academic Attendance
Students are expected to attend all classes and school-wide events in a punctual and attentive manner. Unexcused absences are tracked each semester and addressed as they accumulate. While the School’s response is based on unexcused absences accumulated each semester, consecutive semesters with significant accumulated unexcused absences signals deeper issues and the Director of Residential Life may take necessary action.
Unless otherwise specified in the course syllabus, assignments due on that day must be submitted to course instructor(s) electronically or given to the on-duty residential life instructor who will place them in the appropriate instructor mailbox in the main office for any planned absence. In cases of unplanned but excused absences, the advisor and Health Services Team will develop and communicate an expectation for work completion with the student. It is the student's responsibility to obtain class notes and assignments from missed classes, whether excused or unexcused.
Excused Absences
Short-term excused absences, defined as up to two consecutive days, are as follows:
- Health Reasons: Students are not authorized to excuse themselves from class. Students experiencing a physical or mental health issue must report to the School Nurse or Counselor to request an excused absence. In the event the School Nurse or Counselor aren’t available, students should report to the Director of Residential Life.
- When granting an excused absence, the Health Team will identify an appropriate recovery plan based on the nature of the illness. Recovery plans will be communicated to residential life staff and they will monitor student compliance - students are expected to follow the recovery plan. Non-compliance may result in consequences, including removal of the excused absence and removal of campus for the recovery period. Potential plan specifics/requirements may include:
- Going to meals in the cafeteria
- Moving freely throughout the dormitory
- Going to the Learning Commons during the day
- Going to the Learning Commons in the evening during Penguin Study
- Attending fitness classes or extracurricular events
- Meeting outside of the academic wing with any adults in the community - all faculty and staff are welcome in the dormitory at any time
- Completion of academic work while recovering
- Students who are struggling with recognized mental health issues that prevent them from going to class are encouraged to meet with the Counselor. Examples include depression, thoughts of self harm and external issues such as family emergencies. Lack of sleep due to poor planning/misuse of time, not being prepared for class/having work done or returning late from off-campus trips/school functions are not appropriate reasons to seek a health-based excused absence.
- Repeated need for health-based excused absences suggests that the supports available at MSSM may not be adequate to meet the student’s need and ensure their physical and mental well-being. At the third request, the School will schedule a meeting with advisor, parents/legal guardians, RI, and administration to review the students health needs and ensure that the School is capable of meeting those needs or if further evaluation and intervention is necessary.
- When granting an excused absence, the Health Team will identify an appropriate recovery plan based on the nature of the illness. Recovery plans will be communicated to residential life staff and they will monitor student compliance - students are expected to follow the recovery plan. Non-compliance may result in consequences, including removal of the excused absence and removal of campus for the recovery period. Potential plan specifics/requirements may include:
- Family Emergency: Requests for an excused absence for a family emergency (illness or death of a family member) should be made through the Director of Residential Life’s' office.
- Pre-arranged: A short-term(two school days) excused absence may be permitted for events such as school-sponsored activities, sports competitions, family events, or religious holidays. In such cases, a student must complete and turn in a Short-Term Absence Form (“Green Form”) to the Director of Residential Life. These requests should be made at least forty-eight hours in advance. The request will be reviewed and approved if the Director of Residential Life has no serious concerns with the student missing classes. The request may be denied if the appropriate paperwork is not completed prior to missing class and/or when the Director of Residential Life has serious concerns about the student missing classes. An absence of three days or more requires completion of a leave of absence form which must be requested at least five school days prior to the requested departure. Emergency leaves can be granted on a case-by-case basis.
Make-up Work Due to Excused Absences
A student whose absence from class has been excused will be permitted to make up all work and assessments missed during the absence. On the first day, the student returns to class, he/she must make arrangements with the instructor(s) to complete outstanding work. The time period is generally one day for each day absent depending on the length of the illness.
If an excused absence is pre-arranged, all work due on the day(s) of absence is due in advance of the absence, unless otherwise agreed upon by the teacher.
Unexcused Absences
Missing courses, required meetings, sleeping in class, or being asked to leave a class may be considered unexcused absences. Arriving to class ten or more minutes late may also be classified as an unexcused absence. This should not be interpreted as a ten-minute grace period, as students are expected to be prompt. Teachers are not required to provide an opportunity to make up work missed due to unexcused absences. Unexcused absences are cumulative across all courses and required meetings. Unexcused absences reset each semester. The following procedures will be implemented each semester following any unexcused absence:
- First and Second Unexcused Absence: A notice is mailed to the student, and his/her parents/legal guardians, advisors, and teachers indicating the recording of an unexcused absence.
- Third Unexcused Absence: In addition to a notice being sent to the student, his/her parents/legal guardians, advisor, and teachers, the student will have a conference with the Director of Residential Life.
- Fourth Unexcused Absence: A conference is held with the student, his/her advisor, and the Student Support Team. Following the conference, a letter is sent to all necessary people summarizing the meeting and outlining consequences/supports.
- Fifth Unexcused Absence: The Student Support Team has a joint conference with the student's parents/legal guardians of the student, the student, and his/her advisor to determine how to prevent further unexcused absences and the appropriate response.
- Sixth Unexcused Absence: Any student acquiring six unexcused absences is required to meet with the Student Support Team and his/her advisor. A student who has accumulated six unexcused absences should expect to receive a short-term suspension.
- Seven or more Unexcused Absences: Any student acquiring his/her seventh unexcused absence will meet with the advisor, Director of Residential Life, and the Executive Director. Long- term suspension or dismissal from MSSM may be the possible outcome of this meeting.
Excessive Excused Absences
There is a direct correlation between class attendance and a strong comprehension of class materials. For this reason, students shall not accumulate more than five (5) excused absences in a given class. While the school does permit absences for such things as family events or religious holidays, we reserve the right to limit the number of excused absences for such events. While we recognize that it is still the family's decision to take a child out of school, absences beyond five for any given class may be treated as unexcused and handled accordingly. This determination will be made by the Director of Residential Life after hearing from all involved parties.
Tardy
Students who are reported as being late for class three (3) times will receive an unexcused absence.
Long-Term Absences (3 or more school days away from campus)
Students may be extended a temporary leave of absence from school for a variety of reasons. Students begin the process of requesting leave by meeting with their advisors. Approval requires the completion of a Request for Leave of Absence Form where students document work that will be missed, propose a plan for completion, and review this plan with instructors. Final approval will be determined by the Director of Residential Life. We encourage open communication with families when these occasions arise. By working together, we will determine the nature and duration of leave. The length of time away from classes has varying degrees of impact on students' academic situations. Knowing this, teachers take steps to be as supportive as possible.
In the case of a health-related absence it may be possible for students to attend classes remotely from home. This is entirely at the instructor’s discretion, and no guarantees of remote learning should be assumed. Some types of activities (science labs, for example) may not lend themselves to an on-line format. Instructors may also not be willing to provide remote on-line exams, quizzes, or other types of assessments. If possible, discussions regarding remote learning need to occur prior to the student leaving campus.
Following are typical forms of leave:
- Medical Leave of Absence: The school medical staff, Director of Residential Life, or student's parents/legal guardians and/or primary care physician at home may request a medical leave. Medical leaves are decided on an individual basis and are typically not granted for more than two weeks. Once a medical leave has been granted, the student's medical team and academic team will work together to determine a course of action. Should the team decide the student needs to return home, the team will determine the conditions, if any, of return.
- Personal Leave of Absence: In unusual circumstances, a personal leave of absence may be granted at the request of the family or required by the school. The decision to allow or require a personal leave is made by the Director of Residential Life with input from faculty, RI's, medical staff, and administrative staff as needed.
- Absence Due to Suspension: Students suspended from school are allowed to complete daily assignments missed, provided pre-arrangements are made between the students and their teachers. If a major project or paper is due during the time of suspension, students must turn the paper in on time in order to get credit (this can be by email, fax, etc). If the work is turned in late, regular rules for lateness will apply. Without exception, if a test has been scheduled before the start of the suspension, then the student should return from the suspension with an arranged time to take the test. Tests announced during the suspension must be rescheduled with the teacher immediately upon returning to school with the assistance of the advisor, if necessary.
Long-Term Absences (3 or more school days away from campus)
Students may be extended a temporary leave of absence from school for a variety of reasons. Students begin the process of requesting leave by meeting with their advisors. Approval requires the completion of a Request for Leave of Absence Form where students document work that will be missed, propose a plan for completion, and review this plan with instructors. Final approval will be determined by the Director of Residential Life. We encourage open communication with families when these occasions arise. By working together, we will determine the nature and duration of leave. The length of time away from classes has varying degrees of impact on students' academic situations. Knowing this, teachers take steps to be as supportive as possible.
In the case of a long-term leave of absence, the School may be able to offer some asynchronous remote work to allow some progress in the student’s learning. This is entirely at the instructor’s discretion, and no guarantees of remote opportunities should be assumed. Some types of activities (science labs, for example) may not lend themselves to an on-line format. Instructors may also not be willing to provide remote on-line exams, quizzes, or other types of assessments. If possible, discussions regarding remote learning need to occur prior to the student leaving campus.
Following are typical forms of leave:
- Medical Leave of Absence: The school medical staff, Director of Residential Life, or student's parents/legal guardians and/or primary care physician at home may request a medical leave. Medical leaves are decided on an individual basis and are typically not granted for more than two weeks. Once a medical leave has been granted, the student's medical team and academic team will work together to determine a course of action. Should the team decide the student needs to return home, the team will determine the conditions, if any, of return.
- Personal Leave of Absence: In unusual circumstances, a personal leave of absence may be granted at the request of the family or required by the school. The decision to allow or require a personal leave is made by the Director of Residential Life with input from faculty, RI's, medical staff, and administrative staff as needed.
- Absence Due to Suspension: Students suspended from school are allowed to complete daily assignments missed, provided pre-arrangements are made between the students and their teachers. If a major project or paper is due during the time of suspension, students must turn the paper in on time in order to get credit (this can be by email, fax, etc). If the work is turned in late, regular rules for lateness will apply. Without exception, if a test has been scheduled before the start of the suspension, then the student should return from the suspension with an arranged time to take the test. Tests announced during the suspension must be rescheduled with the teacher immediately upon returning to school with the assistance of the advisor, if necessary.
Assessment
Grading
The following table defines MSSM's grading system. Numerical averages are first rounded to the nearest whole number.
- A+(97-100)
- A(93-96)
- A-(90-92)
- B+(87-89)
- B(83-86)
- B-(80-82)
- C+(77-79)
- C(73-76)
- C-(70-72)
- F(Below 70)
- I(Incomplete*)
- W/Grade (Withdrawal**)
*Incomplete (An Incomplete is issued when a student is unable to complete sufficient assignments for a faculty member to accurately assess the student's knowledge and skills. Incompletes are only issued in the case of illness or other extenuating circumstances.)
- If a student receives an Incomplete for a course, a plan must be developed by the instructor, advisor, and student that sets out a timeline for finishing the class. This timeline should then be shared with the appropriate Division Leader and the Registrar.
**Withdrawal from a course. If a withdrawal is after the first six weeks of the semester, the W will be accompanied by the grade at the time of withdrawal (e.g. W/B).
MSSM Effort Grade Rubric
The effort grade is an internal tool to help assess whether students are meeting MSSM's academic expectations. MSSM's effort grade will be issued on progress reports, academic updates, and end of semester grade reports for all classes. Following is the grading rubric for effort grades:
Effort Grade Standard
3 - Student models an exemplary work ethic that includes punctuality, few or no unexcused class absences, excellent and timely preparation of all homework and other assignments, a noteworthy level of class participation, and an exemplary attitude toward learning, as evidenced by a desire to go beyond the minimum requirements of the class. The student models a willingness to implement teacher recommendations for improvement.
2 - Student models an acceptable work ethic that includes punctuality, few or no unexcused class absences, consistent and timely preparation of homework and other assignments, an acceptable level of class participation, and a positive attitude toward learning, as evidenced by a willingness to try to meet all of the course expectations. The student models a willingness to implement teacher recommendations for improvement.
1 - Student fails to model an acceptable work ethic on a regular basis. Behaviors that would indicate this include some combination of the following - frequent tardiness, several unexcused absences, consistently poor homework preparation (including a failure to turn in a number of assignments), poor or ineffective class participation due to lack of preparation or an unwillingness to contribute to the class, failure to show a willingness to implement teacher recommendations for improvement, and/or a negative attitude toward learning (as evidenced by some or all of the aforementioned behaviors).
Work Assignment Grading Rubric
The work assignment grading scale is based on attendance, participation, and effort. The left column indicates the number of unexcused hours, and the top row identifies the quality of work. Separate effort grades are not given for work assignments, as effort is already included in this grading rubric.
Unexcused Hours |
Student always follows directions completes assigned tasks and displays an excellent attitude. |
Student usually follows directions, completes assigned tasks and displays a good attitude most of the time. |
Student occasionally follows directions, completes assigned tasks and the student's attitude can be inconsistent. |
Student rarely follows directions, completes assigned tasks and displays a poor attitude. |
---|---|---|---|---|
0 | A+ | A | B | F |
1-2 | A | B | C | F |
3 | B | C | C- | F |
4 | C | C- | F | F |
5 | C- | F | F | F |
Academic Reports
Grades are posted three times each semester. The first is known as the "Progress Report", the second as "Academic Update", and the third as "Semester Grade". In addition, a "Final Grade" is posted at the end of the year for year-long courses. Final grades may be different from the semester grades depending on how the final grade is determined, as explained in the course syllabus. All grade communications are released as "Report Cards", found in our student information system.
Progress Reports
Progress reports are submitted by faculty once per semester (after approximately 5 weeks, as indicated by the school calendar) and are released on the student information system to students, parents/legal guardians, academic advisors, and administrators. The progress reports include a narrative of academic strengths and weaknesses, effort, and letter grades. The official transcript, which contains semester letter grades for semester courses and year-end letter grades for year-long courses does not include effort grades.
Academic Updates
Academic updates are released on the student information system once per semester (roughly 5 weeks following the progress reports). Every student will receive a letter and an effort grade. Narratives on academic strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions for improvement will be written for students who had a C or lower on their progress reports or who have slipped to a C or lower since the progress reports.
Academic Alerts and Kudos
Academic Alerts may be written any time a faculty member observes that a student misses assignments, appears sleepy in class, scores poorly on a test, has a below passing average, or is otherwise not meeting MSSM academic expectations. The alerts will be used to denote the areas of concern as well as to make recommendations for improvement.
Academic Kudos may be sent to reflect outstanding work done by students.
Copies of these communications are forwarded to students, student files, parents/legal guardians, students' advisors, residential staff, administration, and all other people for whom it may be important to inform of students' academic performance.
Semester and Final Grades
Report cards denote the end-of-term grades earned by students. Fall report cards are released on the student information system by December 31. J-term/spring report cards are released on the student information system by June 15. Exemplary students will receive one of two letters of commendation from the Executive Director. The Renaissance Scholar letter is for students who have a B or higher in all of their classes. The Polymath Scholar is for students who have all A's in their classes
Academic Status
Academic Probation
Students will be placed on Academic Probation at the end of a semester if they receive a grade of F in any course. Students who end semesters with multiple C-'s may also be placed on Academic Probation.
All students placed on Academic Probation must meet with their academic teams to review their progress and to develop an academic plan. Students, in conjunction with their academic teams, will outline appropriate actions to help them reach their potential. Scheduled time with students' instructors, time in the Learning Commons, structured study, or a recommendation to return to students' sending schools are all possible results of these reviews. Parents/legal guardians are invited to attend in person or via phone conferencing. Notes from the meeting will be forwarded to the student, parents/legal guardians, and other members of the academic team. Approximately every four weeks, probationary students' progress will be evaluated by their advisors, Division Leaders, and Student Support Staff. Modifications to the plans may be made after these evaluations.
Continuing Enrollment
MSSM recognizes that the school's learning environment is not appropriate for all students. Many factors are involved in the success or lack of success of a student, including, but not limited to: inherent ability, work ethic, level of commitment, effort, family support, willingness to seek and accept help, and prior opportunities. MSSM assumes the right and responsibility to evaluate student performance to determine whether continued enrollment at MSSM is in the best interest of a student. Students may forfeit the privilege to continue attending the school at any time their performance or conduct falls short of school standards or academic expectations. Please see the Residential Life section of the handbook for expectations of residential conduct for continued enrollment.
Academic Dismissal
The status of students placed on Academic Probation is reviewed at the end of the probationary semester. Students' potential for graduation from MSSM will be of major consideration during this review. Other factors, such as attendance and overall performance in areas unrelated to the failed course(s), may also be considered.
Students may be required to leave MSSM if they:
- Earn two or more F's at the end of the semester.
- Previously spent at least one semester on academic probation and is facing another semester of probation.
Students and parents/legal guardians will be notified in writing by the Registrar of an Academic Dismissal. MSSM will make such notification within seven (7) business days following the deadline for the receipt of semester grades.
Appeals Process
If a student is dismissed, the School reserves the right to immediately enroll a waitlisted student in the place of the dismissed student. In these circumstances, the dismissed student will be removed from all internal lists, e.g., class registration requests, room assignments, etc. Appeals shall be made in writing to MSSM's Executive Director. The written request must be received within seven (7) business days of written notification of dismissal to students by MSSM. The Executive Director will review the written appeal, the student record, and any other information deemed appropriate. Students and parents/legal guardians will be notified of the Executive Director's decision within seven (7) business days of receiving the appeal. The Executive Director's decision is final. If the appeal is granted and there is no space available, the student will be given priority on the current enrollment waitlist.
College Counseling
The College Counseling Office prepares students for college by assisting them in finding their most appropriate college matches. This is accomplished through a combination of personal meetings, individualized exploration and planning, and intensive seminar courses that begin in the spring of the junior year. College planning, standardized testing, and college financial aid information are all organized through the College Counseling Office.
Junior and Senior Seminar
Seminars begin in the spring of the student's junior year. In Junior Seminar, the students learn about some of the resources available to them when researching colleges, and they begin investigating how to complete some of the more difficult portions of the college application. A major focus is placed on writing attractive and insightful admissions essays and completing the Common Application, which is accepted by almost 900 colleges and universities across the nation. During the fall of their senior year, all students enroll in Senior Seminar. In this course, students concentrate on perfecting their college applications for submission.
Transcripts
Transcripts are requested and submitted through MSSM's Naviance Family Connection website. Transcript Request Forms are available in the College Counseling Office. Upon written request from students or their parents/legal guardians, the Registrar sends official transcripts to scholarship programs and other agencies or institutions. Personal copies of transcripts are not considered official. No official transcripts are furnished to students or alumni/alumnae who have outstanding financial obligations to MSSM.
Standardized Testing
Colleges and universities utilize standardized tests as one part of the application process, as well as for scholarship competition and placement. The SAT and ACT are used by colleges to help them compare students from different educational systems. MSSM is a testing site for PSAT, SAT, ACT, and AP exams.
Fees for national testing programs vary and are assessed by the individual agencies. Students are responsible for registering for these exams via the College Board and/or ACT. Parents/legal guardians are required to pay the fees for SAT I, ACT, and AP tests.
A limited number of fee waivers are available from the College Counseling Office. No student should let finances keep him/her/them from testing. The College Counselor should be advised of any financial hardships or special situations.
Please remember that some testing opportunities take place when MSSM is not in session. If students choose to test when MSSM is not in session, they should select the site closest to their homes.
PSAT
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is co-sponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). The PSAT/NMSQT measures the critical reading, math problem-solving, and writing skills that students have developed throughout their lives. MSSM requires and pays for all juniors to participate in the PSAT testing program. Freshmen and sophomores may also opt to take the PSAT but are required to pay for the exam at the current College Board rate.
SAT
The SAT is a globally recognized college admissions test that enables students to demonstrate their reading, writing, and mathematics skills to colleges. Most students take the test more than once during their junior or senior year.
ACT
The ACT is the test of choice in the Midwest. It is subject-based, measuring skills in English, mathematics, science, reading, and an optional writing test. The ACT may sometimes be substituted for the SAT, but policies vary from college to college. The ACT test with writing is highly recommended for students who may not be satisfied with their SAT scores or who believe they might benefit from a different testing format.
AP
The Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a cooperative endeavor between high schools, colleges, and universities. It allows high school students to demonstrate their mastery of college-level material through AP exams. Colleges and universities may, at their sole discretion, then grant credit, advanced placement, or both to students who have performed well. AP exams occur in May. Registration is done in the first week of AP class, through the student College Board account. Students who enroll in AP courses are expected to take the AP exam for those courses. Parents/legal guardians will be invoiced, by the business office for the cost of these exams. Invoicing will occur in April. Though there are no fee waivers for AP exams, students who qualify for free/reduced lunch pay a discounted price. If a student decides not to take the AP exam, the AP designation will be removed from their course transcript. The College Board applies fees for late registration and unused exams. https://www.apreviewbook.com/ap-exam-fees/
Maine State Assessments
Like students in other Maine public schools, MSSM students are required to take several State Assessment tests. In the fall and spring, students in grade 10 participate in Mathematics and English/Language Arts testing. In the spring, students in grade 11 participate in a Science assessment.
Testing Dates
In order to register to take the SAT or ACT tests at the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, students will need the following codes:
- MSSM School Code: 200574 for both ACT and SAT
- MSSM Test Center Code for the ACT Test: 155210
- MSSM Test Center Code for the SAT Test: 20-217
Information Technology Use Agreement(ITUA)
The Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) prioritizes supporting its community in achieving its educational goals. This commitment extends to its IT Department, which ensures reliable technology access through responsible use of equipment and the network. MSSM's computer and network policies are in place to promote efficient operation for everyone.
To access the MSSM network, internet, Google Workspace applications, and use MSSM hardware and software, all students and their parents/legal guardians must agree to the Information Technology Use Agreement (ITUA) by signing the ITUA code within the Community Handbook on Magnus.
Violating the ITUA will result in immediate network access suspension. In severe cases, computer searches for unauthorized programs may occur. Disciplinary action, law enforcement referral, or legal action may also be taken. The Executive Director (or designee) will make the final decision on network access limitations (restriction, suspension, or revocation) considering the violation's severity, prior disciplinary record, and other relevant factors. Students, parents, and advisors will be notified after the decision. Violations carry over year-to-year until graduation.
MSSM Computer Lab Guidelines
The IT Department supports MSSM's educational mission by providing a computer lab for student and staff use. To ensure a productive environment for everyone, please follow these guidelines when using MSSM Lab Computers:
- Keep food and drinks away from workstations: Spills can damage equipment, and crumbs can attract pests.
- Be mindful of noise: Use headphones to listen to music or videos, and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.
- Software installation requires IT approval: This helps maintain system integrity and security.
- Report technical problems promptly: The sooner IT is aware of an issue, the sooner they can resolve it.
- Leave hardware maintenance to the professionals: Tampering with equipment can cause damage and disrupt lab operations.
Staying Safe on the MSSM Network
MSSM’s network is monitored to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for everyone. This includes monitoring traffic for inappropriate activity. While encrypted websites and passwords are protected, students should exercise caution when sharing personal information on the network.
Important Reminders
- Students are responsible for their online activity on MSSM’s network.
- MSSM administrators may need to conduct computer searches to maintain network security. Cooperation is expected.
- In rare cases, network access may be temporarily suspended for investigation. Parents/guardians and students will be notified within 48 hours.
To ensure a safe and secure learning environment, MSSM requires a strong network security posture. Any action that jeopardizes the network's stability, integrity, or privacy, or that grants access to inappropriate hardware or materials, constitutes a violation of the ITUA. Examples of such violations include, but are not limited to:
- Probing the network to gain access to unauthorized network areas
- Sharing account credentials
- Lack of or outdated virus protection
- Accessing a network other than MSSM's
Report any security breaches, network issues, or attempts to bypass security or access controls to the Director of Technology.
MSSM IT assigns IP addresses to each student for up to three devices. Static IPs are not allowed; devices must use DHCP. Changing device MAC addresses, hostnames, or spoofing them is prohibited.
Bypassing school network security with tools like proxy sites is a violation. These tools are used to access websites that are normally blocked for your protection.
To create a safe and secure environment for everyone at MSSM, the network must be free from illegal activity. This includes any activity that violates local, state, or federal laws, or could lead to legal trouble for MSSM, its students, staff, or faculty.
Downloading, uploading, or possessing unauthorized digital data violates copyright law and is considered theft. This can have serious consequences for both you and MSSM, including the loss of internet access and potential legal penalties.
Protect yourself and MSSM
- Obtain all software and digital media (music, games, and movies) from authorized sources.
- Ensure all software is properly licensed.
- Only use files and programs that comply with U.S. copyright law.
MSSM fully cooperates with lawful investigations and may provide log information for any account suspected of copyright infringement.
If you violate the IT Usage Agreement (ITUA), you'll be responsible for any costs MSSM incurs, including investigation expenses.
Students facing network access suspension due to disciplinary action can still access computers in designated MSSM labs. However, using other students' personal computers is strictly prohibited.
Internet
MSSM offers internet access through Wi-Fi and Ethernet. You can connect during network hours: Sundays-Thursdays (6 AM - 11 PM) and Fridays-Saturdays (6 AM - Midnight). To ensure a safe online environment, MSSM follows the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and enforces its IT Use Agreement (ITUA).
While MSSM uses content filters and firewalls to block inappropriate content, the vastness of the internet means some may slip through. Our IT department can manually block these sites. Intentionally accessing such material violates the ITUA.
Here are some examples of ITUA violations:
- Inappropriate Materials: This includes accessing, sharing, or displaying content that is defamatory, pornographic, abusive, obscene, or discriminatory. It also covers gambling and commercial activities for personal gain.
- Copyright Infringement: Copying, downloading, uploading, or sharing copyrighted material (games, music, videos, etc.) is prohibited. This includes using torrenting software.
- Plagiarism: Claiming someone else's work as your own, regardless of the source (online or otherwise). When using internet sources, proper citation is required.
- Unauthorized Access: Sharing passwords, using other users' credentials, or accessing accounts that don't belong to you. This also includes attempts to gain unauthorized access to systems or resources.
- Malicious Activity: Disrupting or harming MSSM's technology infrastructure, including spreading viruses, worms, or engaging in hacking activities. Defaming or harassing MSSM, its employees, or affiliates through technology also violates the ITUA (and may fall under MSSM's Harassment Policy).
In the absence of board policy regarding a necessary course of action within the school system, the authority to act resides with the Executive Director. (Policy-NEPN/NSBA Code: CHD)
Network Connection
MSSM provides Wi-Fi network access throughout residential and academic buildings for registered devices. While Wi-Fi offers convenient mobility for your devices, wired Ethernet connections are recommended for activities requiring consistent bandwidth, such as video conferencing (e.g., Google Meet, Zoom). Each dorm room includes an Ethernet jack, and we recommend having an available, minimum 6-foot, cable to connect your computer.
Stay Connected with MSSM Google Workspace
MSSM utilizes Google Workspace for Education®, offering a suite of communication and collaboration tools to all students and staff. Your MSSM-assigned Google Workspace account is your primary channel for official communication. Proper use is expected, and misuse may lead to account suspension.
Benefits for Graduates:
Even after graduation, you'll retain access to your MSSM Google Workspace account.
Connecting to the MSSM Network
• Supported Devices: MSSM's network is compatible with a wide range of devices, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles, as long as they run manufacturer-supported operating systems.
• Device Registration: To ensure network security and access to campus resources, all devices must be registered with the IT department, regardless of operating system. You can find the Device Registration Form on the MSSM website (mssm.org/students/device-registration).
• Personal Data Plans and Wi-Fi Hotspots: Using personal data plans or creating Wi-Fi hotspots on your device is prohibited on campus. This helps maintain a stable and secure network connection for everyone. Violations may result in disciplinary action.
Keeping Your Device Secure
• Security: For added protection, we recommend using an antivirus program and keeping your device up-to-date with the latest security patches. These measures help fight off malware and keep your device secure.
Need To Print?
There are computers with printers (print stations) available in the Learning Center (LC) of the academic building and the dorm lower lounge for your printing needs. If these locations are closed, you can also use your own printer. However, please keep in mind that MSSM does not provide ink, toner, or paper for personal printers.
Accountability
Students are responsible for their own personal property, including electronics, while at MSSM during the school year. The school will not be held liable for lost or damaged items.
Unauthorized Network Devices:
- Unauthorized network transmitters,
- Unauthorized network devices are not allowed because they can cause interference and disrupt the network for everyone.
- Wired or wireless routers,
- School and dorm networks are already set up and configured, bringing in your own router can cause interference and disrupt the connection for everyone.
- Wireless access points,
- Similar to routers, wireless access points can create conflicting signals and cause connectivity issues.
- Wi-Fi extenders,
- While these can be tempting to boost the signal in your dorm room, they can also contribute to network congestion.
- VPN routers,
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can be used to encrypt your internet traffic, but MSSM restricts them on our network.
- Switches,
- Switches are not allowed because they can introduce complexities and interfere with the school's network configuration.
- Servers,
- Personal servers are not allowed because they can introduce conflicts with the existing network configuration and resource allocation, causing slowdowns or outages for everyone.
- Mobile hotspots,
- Mobile hotspots are discouraged because they can create signal interference and strain the bandwidth of the existing network, impacting performance for everyone.
- Devices not supported by the manufacturer (unsupported devices),
- Devices that haven't been tested, approved, or no longer supported by the manufacturer can cause compatibility issues and disrupt the network's performance. For this reason, their use is not supported by MSSM IT department, nor permitted on campus.
If you're unsure about something, it's always best to consult the Director of Technology.
Residential Life Vision
MSSM embraces the philosophy that living in a residential community is an important part of the high school experience. The learning that occurs through experiences in decision-making, critical thinking, and taking responsibility within the residential community will be invaluable throughout one’s life. The following statements describe the beliefs and goals that form the philosophical foundation of the Residence Life Program
- Encourage and respect students as emerging adults.
- Provide a clean, safe, enjoyable residential environment.
- Promote an environment conducive to study and academic pursuit.
- Increase student appreciation of different cultures, races, values, and lifestyles.
- Promote the development of healthy and meaningful relationships among students.
- Encourage self-exploration and self-challenge: emotionally, intellectually, physically,spiritually, occupationally, and socially.
- Teach Life skills such as critical thinking, decision-making, communication, and personal responsibility.
- Provide challenge and support for students as they explore developmental issues.
- Encourage and promote leadership, volunteering and community service as an important component of citizenship in any community
Community and Student Life
MSSM assumes the good in all of its students. MSSM expects its students to speak the truth and act with courage in all aspects of their life. MSSM offers students a unique opportunity to participate daily in a small, energetic, and supportive community. In addition to student obligations in the academic, athletic, and social realms, students are encouraged to take active roles in positively influencing the community. Meeting one’s commitments, seeking help when necessary, and supporting others in need are all important aspects of successful residential living. To that end, MSSM highly encourages a developing sense of independence, within reasonable limitations, and enforces rules defining them, which are necessary to maintain relative freedom and a safe community for all.
Equity, Justice, and Belonging Statement
We, the Faculty, Staff and Board of Trustees, of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, wish to affirm with you our dedication to providing an equitable, safe, dynamic community for our current students, our future students, and the diverse communities we serve. We are committed to honest self-examination about how our past and present practices have (and have not created) equity and diversity. As we move forward, we pledge renewed commitment, empathy, and urgency on this work, and we look to all the members of our community to participate with us.
Gender Identity and Belonging
Belonging is about the full affirmation of all individuals in the MSSM community. If a student comes out to an adult in the community as transgender, gender nonconforming, gender expansive, agender, or another identity that has not been affirmed by the school and school records will be shared with our Social Worker in order to help with any transition needed.
Routines, Procedures& Expectations
Dressing and Grooming
The MSSM School Dressing and Grooming Guidelines are designed to ensure safety around authentic self-expression and help promote necessary hygiene practices. We respect the individual and unique potential each member of the community offers, and support their freedom to express themselves. No member of the community should be affected by dress code enforcement because of racial identity, sex assigned at birth, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, cultural or religious identity, household income, body size/type, or body maturity. Our goal is for MSSM students to prepare their best selves each day by being role models in what they wear, taking accountability for their hygiene, and being supportive in the freedom of expression of others. MSSM requires school dress, as defined below, for all school obligations.
Academic Building Dress Code:
- Clothing will not have graphics or language that is offensive to our community.
- Clothing worn to academic events will not be clothing designed specifically for sleeping, lounging or bathing (pajamas, sleepwear, undergarments, bathing suits). Example: wearing pajamas at the Holiday Diner gathering.
- Clothing will not interfere with good hygiene practices or the range of motion required
- Students should dress in clean clothing each day. Additionally, clothing must be laundered regularly to be clean (free of odor and stains).
- Open garments like skirts, dresses, and shorts must cover the body enough to sit without exposing undergarments to public chairs/surfaces.
- Clothing must allow for daily movement around campus that promotes student comfort, flexibility, and range of motion.
- Hearing must be unrestricted during classes and meetings (no headphones or other hearing restrictions) - with the exception of school approved accommodations or religious observance.
- Some classes or campus jobs may have specific clothing requirements for physical safety or movement. For example, oversized clothing may not be allowed in Science Labs, Makerspace. Instructors will provide guidance for this at the beginning of the term.
- Wear appropriate clothing for each of the seasons including footwear. This would include boots or shoes for winter, pants and a jacket.
School personnel shall not enforce the school’s dress code more strictly against students because of diversity in racial identity, sex assigned at birth, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, cultural or religious identity, household income, body size/type, or body maturity.
In conversations about dress code issues, students shall not be shamed or required to publicly display their body or clothes in front of others (students, parents, or staff) in school.
Community Information
Senior Privileges
Recognizing that MSSM seniors are leaders and stewards of the community, they have special responsibilities and privileges not extended to students in the lower grades. MSSM expects its older students to conduct themselves appropriately, cultivating a positive tone and decorum. The School offers certain privileges in the spirit of responsibility and leadership. Senior privileges will be determined at some point during the first semester. The group will provide a list of their requests and then will be determined by the Director of Residential Life.
Students will be notified when they have mail. Mail will be brought down to the dorm office where they can pick it up. Parents if you are mailing medication, please address it to the School Nurse.
Student mail should be addressed as follows:
Student Name
MSSM
95 High St
Limestone, ME 04750
Meals
In addition to helping maintain a student’s physical health and nutrition, meals are an important time for developing connections with members of the community. All students are encouraged to eat regularly in the dining hall with their peers. Proper behavior must be maintained at meals, and good manners are expected at all times. To-go meals should only be taken out for academic purposes. We strongly encourage our students to eat in the dining hall with the community.
Breakfast
Monday-Friday
- 8:00am-8:30am (7:30am-early class only)
- 8:30am-9:00am Late Breakfast
Saturday & Sunday Continental
- 9:30am-10:00am
Saturday & Sunday-Brunch
- 11:00am-12:30pm
Lunch
Monday-Friday
- 12:15pm-1:15pm
Monday-Friday-Grazing
- 2:00pm-6:00pm
Dinner
Monday-Sunday
- 5:00pm-6:00pm
Religious and Dietary Needs: Any students with special dietary or religious needs should make those needs known to the FLIK Staff and school nurse as soon as possible. The School will make every effort to accommodate any such needs.
FLIK Director of Dining Services: Phebe.Whitley-DesJardins
Email: Phebe.Whitley-DesJardins@compass-usa.com
Sign In/Out Procedure
While MSSM cannot guarantee knowledge of all students' whereabouts at all times, regulations governing signing out are designed to give the staff a reasonable knowledge of each student's location, and thus a way of reaching them in the event of an emergency.
The sign in/out process requires the student to fill out a REACH leave request and must check out with the staff member on duty to obtain approval.
Students must sign out any time they leave campus for a non-sanctioned school trip. The one exception to this rule is the weekly trip toPresque Isle. Permission from the residential life staff is needed for any unsupervised trip lasting longer than two hours or extending outside of Limestone town limits.
REACH
REACH coordinates Leave Request procedures for School Staff, Parents, Hosts and Students by creating an easy to use, paperless system that you can access from anywhere at any time and from any device. REACH is available for you to use from any PC or mobile device 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. The following sections are all coordinated through REACH during the school year.
Going Off-Campus
Students must sign-out each time they wish to leave campus. Students may sign-out if he/she/they are in good standing with academics and within the boarding community, has the proper permissions, and acts in accordance with the guidelines set in place by the Residential Life Handbook. Students must sign back in upon return to campus.
Leave Requests
Students are permitted to leave campus on the weekends to visit family and friends, provided the student is in good academic and social standing and has no work hours scheduled with the Residential Life Staff.
Overnight Permission
Students seeking permission for an overnight excursion are required to submit an Overnight Leave Request through REACH. Students given permission to go on a non school sanctioned overnight trip must check out with the staff member on duty to obtain approval.
Automobiles
Automobiles on campus are a privilege. Students may have vehicles on campus from August 21st - November 17th. Students may return to campus with their cars upon arrival from April break. When students arrive on campus with vehicles, they must park their vehicles in the assigned area and report directly to the residential staff to turn in all their keys for the vehicles. Students who have brought cars to school may use their cars only when departing for extended weekends or vacations. All exceptions to this must be approved by the Director of Residential LIfe. Student vehicles are subject to search at any time while they are at MSSM.
Business Office Monthly Account
MSSM regulates your students' account using My Kids Spending. Students may charge weekend activities and expenses for other programs that the school offers as long as their account contains a positive balance.
In The Dormitory
Work Program
MSSM students have always helped to build and maintain their campus. Today, the Work Assignment program continues to promote a number of those classic values, including the importance and dignity of physical labor, shared responsibilities, and providing a clean and ordered place in which to live and study. The Work Assignment program includes assisting faculty/staff in our community and assisting maintenance. Work Assignment falls into three categories: (1) general cleaning, (2) kitchen related jobs, and (3) community support: tutoring, Foundation, etc.. Students will assist with cleaning dishes and utensils during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also, the dorm requires constant cleaning as it is a heavily used building. It is important that our students understand that these expectations are part of living in our community and that we all play a role in keeping our community safe and healthy.
Dormitory Regulations
MSSM’s dormitory provides students with a residential environment designed to promote long-lasting habits for study, sleep, and socializing. The cornerstone of life in the dorms is the acceptance of personal responsibility for living and studying and respect for others. It is important to list the most important dormitory rules here:
- Students may never be on a wing in which they do not live on unless invited in and hosted by a member of that wing and only during the approved visitation times.
- No one is permitted to change rooms without the express permission of the Director of Residential Life. Generally, such requests are not considered until after Parent Teacher Conferences, and even then only after a number of intermediate measures are exhausted.
- Rooms are inspected at the beginning as well as the end of the year. Any room damage must be paid for by the occupant(s). Also, any expense for general damage to the dorm is divided among the occupants unless the person who is responsible for the damage is identified.
- Students are required to keep their rooms neat and clean at all times. Once a week there will be a room inspection by the Director of Residential Life and maintenance. Students are expected to have their trash taken out and the room tidied.
- Sleepovers are permitted on Friday nights only.
- Valuables should be kept in the locked closets or in the Dorm Office.
- All passports and passport cards should be turned in at check in and will be locked up in the Dorm Office.
- Skis, snowboards, and bicycles may not be kept in the dormitory rooms or hallways. Storage for recreational equipment is available on campus.
- Students may not keep pets of any type in the dormitory. In an effort to build community, social skills, good study habits, and a healthy lifestyle, use of gaming consoles, including computers, deemed to be excessive or inappropriate by a faculty or staff member may result in the confiscation (temporary or permanent) of the equipment.
- Because of the various dangers it poses, gambling involving real stakes (money, property, services, etc.) is not permitted.
- Listed below are the times for curfew and lights out. Students must get the permission of the on duty staff in order to extend any of the times
On Campus Curfew
- Sunday-Thursday: all students must be on campus between 9:30pm-6:00am
- Friday-Saturday: all students must be on campus between 10:30p m-6:00am
On Wing
- Sunday-Thursday: 9:30pm all students
- Friday-Saturday: 11:00pm all students
In Room
- Sunday-Thursday: 10:15pm
- Friday-Saturday: 11:15pm
Lights Out
- Sunday-Thursday: 10:30pm
- Friday-Saturday: 11:30pm
Fire Safety & Prevention
- Students may not smoke, burn, or ignite anything while in the dormitory.
- Under no circumstances can cooking utensils, hot pots, air fryers, electric blankets or heaters, candles, kerosene or gas lamps, upholstered furniture, combustible fluids or other items of a similarly hazardous nature be kept or used in dormitory rooms.
- Extension cords are expressly prohibited. Use of power strip outlets - (Must be “relocatable”) is strongly encouraged and these are required for stereo, computer and larger electrical needs.
- All other electrical equipment such as lamps, radios, and stereos are permitted but may be confiscated if they are a danger to the dorm.
- All light fixtures must use compact fluorescent (CFL) or LED bulbs, no incandescent or halogen bulbs are permitted.
- No hangings may be suspended from the ceiling or on the walls or in any way obstruct entrances and exits from rooms. Cloth decorations are not allowed and other wall decorations should not cover more than 20% of the wall surface.
- Fire exits should be checked regularly and must be kept free of obstructions.
- Hall and corridor lights must be left on at night, not only to aid the student in exiting the building, but also to aid firefighters in their task.
- Rooms must be kept in orderly condition. Cluttered rooms are hazardous. All dormitory room mattresses must rest on a bed frame and not directly on the floor.
- The layout in which the furnishings are found in the fall is designed to keep the window and door exits free. Therefore, moving furniture requires the permission of the Director of Residential Life.
- Fire extinguishers must not be removed from their proper locations or tampered with in any way. Students should be familiar with their location and method of operation. Any tampering with fire extinguishers or fire equipment, such as lights or alarms, is prohibited and may be grounds for dismissal.
- Fire drills will be performed multiple times throughout the year.
Fire Procedures
- At the first sign of smoke or fire, pull the fire alarm and alert the dorm staff and others in the dorm, and then proceed to the nearest exit.
- Do not attempt to take anything when you leave.
- When feasible, make sure that windows and doors are closed and that the lights are left on.
- After arriving at the check-in point and checking in with the residential life staff, stay nearby until they give further instructions. This may include notifying the Executive Director, aiding the fire department in getting to the right building, and so on. Under no circumstances re-enter the building until it has been officially determined safe by the Fire Chief (or their designee), residential life staff or executive director.
Room Inspections/Searches
School employees including residential life staff may enter student rooms for inspection, for health and safety purposes, as well as for disciplinary reasons. Such entry does not in and of itself constitute a room search. Investigation of a room’s contents beyond simple entry and observation is considered a room search, for which the approval of the Director of Residential Life and Executive Director is required. A search of a student’s room and/or possessions may be warranted if a member of the faculty or administration has good reason to believe that a disciplinary infraction or the existence of physical or other potential harm to the student or others will be discovered. Generally, when a search is undertaken, a representative of the residential life staff and the student whose room is being searched, shall be present. At the discretion of the Director of Residential Life, a room search may be undertaken without following the above procedure. The school may also search students’ possessions, including, but not limited to mail, locked trunks, backpacks, purses, mobile devices, personal computers and vehicles if the school suspects a violation of law or school rule, or student safety is a concern.
Searches or inspections may include, but are not limited to, the following circumstances:
- Maintenance:MSSM maintenance personnel have access to student rooms at all times in order to perform their duties as assigned by MSSM. They are expected to report any inappropriate activities or items they observe while performing their duties.
- Room Inspections: Staff will conduct scheduled room inspections with prior notice to students, and will inspect each room after the Residential Hall is closed for long weekends and vacation periods. Unannounced inspections: From time to time, staff will conduct unannounced inspections of student rooms
- Enforcement of school rules: The administration may authorize entry of student rooms or vehicles at any time without prior notice to ensure compliance with school rules and state law. As much as is possible, students will be present for such searches.
- Canines, metal detectors, and devices: In conducting room or vehicle searches or inspections, MSSM may utilize methods designed to detect the presence of illegal substances or objects.
- MSSM may also utilize the services of law enforcement personnel or other qualified persons who have expertise in these matters.
If any activity violating MSSM rules or state law is discovered during the course of any inspection or search, the student(s) will face the consequences.
At certain times, the school may offer an amnesty period where students can anonymously turn in any restricted items in their possession without consequences. These will be announced and overseen by the Director of Residential Life and are at the sole discretion of the School.
Student Leadership and Extracurricular Activities
Residential Assistants (RA’s)
MSSM’s Residential Assistants serve as the primary peer resource when students are in need of assistance. Each wing has RA’s assigned to their care. RA’s also help with a variety of other tasks in the dormitory, from assisting RI’s with room checks to planning dorm events. RA’s are key liaisons between the student body and the faculty, with the ultimate goal of ensuring the safety and well-being of every student they serve.
Student Ambassadors
Student Ambassadors work with the Admissions office to spread the word about MSSM and to host visitors to campus. Whether families, schools, groups, or consultants, student ambassadors answer questions and help newcomers understand MSSM at work. They play an important role in helping new students feel at home in the MSSM community, as well
Clubs
Students and faculty do, and may, take the initiative to start clubs based on personal interests and/or needs of the community. Club opportunities and schedules will be distributed early in the academic year. The Director of Residential Life oversees all clubs. Any group who wishes to start a club is required to apply, and will be approved by Student Senate.
Athletics
The Department of Athletics at MSSM is committed to be an integral part of the overall educational experience. To this end, the primary purpose of the MSSM Athletics Department is to fulfill the educational mission of the School through continually striving to enhance the athletic program for our students by:
- Promoting academic excellence, leadership and community involvement
- Providing the best environment in terms of staff, facilities and equipment for positive competition against opponents
- Nurturing positive character growth and development by emphasizing the highest values and ideals of the School, including good sportsmanship, personal integrity and fair playCultivating in students an appreciation of self and of others and their views
- Developing students' ability to think clearly and make sound judgments on and off the playing field
- Attempting to obtain athletic excellence by encouraging students to strive toward their fullest potential whistle attending MSSM
Seasonal Sports
- Fall: Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer and Cross Country
- Winter: Nordic Skiing and Volleyball
- Spring: Tennis Co-Op and Track and Field
Academic Eligibility for Interscholastic Athletics
The Maine Principals Association (MPA) requires student athletes to meet specific academic standards at the conclusion of each semester of high school. Failure to meet those standards at the end of any semester of high school results in a student being declared ineligible for the subsequent semester. Therefore, using MPA’s guidelines, the School will determine a student's eligibility three times per semester: Progress Reports, Academic Updates and Semester Grade. If an athlete has two C-’s or one or more F’s during any of these grading periods, they will be deemed ineligible until the following academic grading period.
Attendance
Participation in either extracurricular or interscholastic art, athletic, and academic performances or competitions requires attendance of at least half of the student’s academic classes on the day of the event. Academic obligations (i.e. tests, papers, etc.) must also be fulfilled. If a student has a Health Day for any reason, they will need permission from the LSW, School Nurse or Director of Residential LIfe in order to participate that day. Students who have an unexcused absence from any academic class during a school day may neither practice nor participate in any after-school activity that day. Any exception to this policy must be approved by the Director of Athletics.
Uniforms
Each student will receive an athletic uniform at the beginning of their season. They will be responsible for maintaining their uniform throughout their season. On the last day of their season, they will be required to return their uniform to the Athletic Director. If the uniform is not returned within 48hrs of the last game, they will be charged for a new uniform. If the uniform is returned with damages of any kind that were not reported to the Athletic Director during the season, the student will be charged with a replacement uniform.
Student Health & Wellness Services
All MSSM students are required to have complete medical insurance coverage before they will be allowed to enroll and attend classes.
School Nurse:
Kristin Damboise, BSN
Office: 207-325-3798
Cell: 207-498-9708
Email: damboisek@mssm.org
Fax: 207-325-3614
Licensed Social Worker:
Dustin Damboise
Office: 207-325-3616
Cell: 207-554-9915
Email: damboised@mssm.org
Student Support Services
The Licensed Social Worker (LSW) is available to students to discuss a wide range of topics and is familiar with the problems that students face. The LSW’s office is open each day and appointments can be made easily. The social worker works with our students around topics such as school adjustment, peer relationships, and homesickness, as well as other mental health issues related to substance use and sexuality. However, this is not an exhaustive list and other issues are discussed as they arise. The LSW will assist with telehealth referrals for outpatient services for students who might need long-term therapy. In part, this information is obtained to comply with state law; it is also needed to keep the School well-informed of the health of all students. The School is sensitive to the privacy of this information and is committed to protecting the confidentiality of students and their families. Parents agree that the School Nurse and the LSW are authorized to disclose health related information, including information related to drug and alcohol evaluations and testing, to employees and agents of the School when, in their opinion, it is appropriate to meet the health or safety needs of the student, the school community, or the legal responsibilities of the School.
Health Services
MSSM employs a School Nurse, who is available Monday-Friday. The Health Services office is located within the dormitory and office hours are posted on the door. Health Services include assessing needs and performing first aid services, providing health care counseling, overseeing the distribution of medication, and aiding students in making unavoidable medical and dental appointments while at MSSM. Please note that routine health care appointments should be scheduled during times when students are at home. Students and their families are responsible for all costs incurred by these appointments. If a student feels ill during the daytime, they should visit the Nurse on Lower C. If it is outside health services hours, they should notify the dorm staff on duty. In the event a student needs medical care outside of the School Nurse, your child may be taken to one of the Walk-In Clinic.
If a student becomes sick while at home or on break, please contact the Director of Residential Life and School Nurse who will coordinate a plan for return to campus. Parents should make this contact early on so we can develop a plan that is least disruptive to the student.
Parents/legal guardians must sign permission forms allowing their children to receive treatment in the event of an illness or accident. Parents/legal guardians of students taken to the emergency room shall be notified by an MSSM staff member as soon as the situation allows. In most cases, parents/legal guardians are called before students are brought to the emergency room.
Health Days
These can be taken by students if needed. They will need to see either the school nurse or social worker depending on their situation. If a student is granted a health day, they will not be permitted to participate in any after school activities unless otherwise instructed. They will be expected to stay in their room until the next morning, unless permission is granted otherwise. Students taking health days are required to check in with the Dorm Office if they would like to go outdoors.
Dorm Illness/ Preventing Outbreaks
The Nurse may recommend that the student be seen and tested at Walk-In Care. If so, the nurse will notify the parents/guardian before being tested. If we have an outbreak of illness in the dorms, it is a requirement to have this completed to contain the illness as much as possible and prevent spread. If a family refuses to have their child tested while presenting symptoms, we will ask that the student be picked up or sent home due to the unknown diagnosis that the student may have. Once a student tests positive for a contagious illness (COVID, Flu, NoroVirus), arrangements will be made to have the student sent home. If this is unable to be accommodated, quarantine will be provided if the rooms are available.
Medications
MSSM’s Medication Policy applies to both prescription and non-prescription drugs, as well as over the counter (OTC) medications. ALL medications (prescription/non-prescription) that students bring to MSSM must be turned into MSSM’s Health Center within three hours of arriving on campus.
Medication Policy
All medications must be updated in Magnus annually.
The school works with Frontier Pharmacy in Caribou for medication management. If your child takes medication at school, the school nurse will provide direction on prescription management and medication policies. The School will only administer medications provided accompanied by a treating prescriber’s order and in original pharmacy containers.
All prescription and non-prescription medications are administered under the supervision of the School Nurse or designee. The nurse's office is responsible for storing and dispensing all medications for students. Medications are not to be stored in a student’s room.
Students on prescribed psychotropic medications must be stable on said medications when returning to campus, hence any dosage change should be done at home when students are on break whenever possible.
Any student who shares prescription medications with another student will be subject to serious disciplinary measures and their student status at MSSM may be jeopardized.
MSSM expects that students on medication will be responsible and obtain the medication from the school nurse as the doctor has ordered.
Morning medications are administered in the Health Center by the School Nurse during the week between 7:30-8:20 a.m. or as prescribed. Evening medications are administered in the dorms by residential life staff. On the weekends morning medications are administered in the nurse's office 10:30am-11:00am on Saturday and Sundays. Evening medications are administered by residential life staff in the dorms. It is understood that the compliance expectations apply to weekends in the same manner.
Students are expected to come to the nurses office at the designated time, to establish a regular routine with the nurse and to follow through consistently. If a Student fails to do so, misses or is late obtaining doses of medications, they will be marked as late or missed. Please refer to tardiness and absence policy for repeated tardy and missed medications policy.
The school nurse will assist and encourage your child to take their prescribed medications however; it is the responsibility of your child to come to the Health Center for their medications.
- First missed dose = email to student and Direct of Residential Life
- Second missed dose = email to student, Director of Residential Life and parent
- Third missed dose = meeting with nurse and family to discuss
- The school nurse may only change or discontinue prescribed medications with written documentation from a provider. All prescription medications must be accompanied by an order to be given, the prescription bottle is not a substitute for a provider order. MSSM is responsible for complying with provider’s orders as they are received. If your student takes prescription medication, we offer a convenient and efficient way to serve this aspect of their health care needs. This includes all prescription medications taken on both a daily and as needed basis.
The medication form needs to be filled out by the student’s PCP prior to arrival to campus. Any medication not listed on the form will not be permitted for the student to take until the form is completed.
If a student misses their medication, it is important they reach out to the School Nurse or a Residential Life staff member. If a student regularly forgets or misses their medication, a call/email will be made to the family to inform them and to decide if a meeting should be scheduled to address medication management.
With parental permission, students are allowed to self-medicate OTC’s listed on the health form. Small amounts of OTC medications may be kept in student’s rooms. The amount of OTC medications students are permitted to keep in their rooms is determined by the kind of medication they wish to have. Generally, medical staff allow students to possess the amount of medication that would be recommended for a particular week. If more than that is needed, the parents/legal guardians will be contacted. Students found with more than the allowed amount of OTC medications will have the medication removed and a meeting will be called with the Director of Residential Life and the family.
With parental permission, students may have emergency prescription medications such as asthma inhalers and Epi-Pens in their possession, but need to bring their own supply.
With prior approval of parents/legal guardians and the School Nurse, certain non-emergency prescription medications, such as birth control and acne medications, may be kept by students. To ensure the health and safety of everyone in the community, students will NOT be permitted, under any circumstances, to have in their possession the following non-emergency prescription drugs:
- Schedule I drugs (example: prescription pain-killers)
- Schedule II drugs (example: ADHD/ADD medications)
- Psychotropic medications such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-psychotropic, etc..
These medications must be kept under lock and key in the Health Center and given only by trained medication administration staff. Students found in possession of any of the above medications will have the medication removed and a meeting with the family may be called by the Director of Residential Life.
Except in the case of emergency or through special arrangement, parents/legal guardians are required to have all prescriptions sent to Frontier Pharmacy in Caribou Maine: (207) 493-7771. It is the responsibility of the family to have the prescription co-pay prepaid and insurance RX number provided to the pharmacy before a MSSM staff member can pick up the medications.
Other Health Information
All Students
If you are unable to attend classes due to illness or injury, it is assumed you are therefore unable to participate in sports or activities. If you are excused from the academic day or work assignment you may not attend practice, activities or trips unless an exception is made. Exceptions may only be given by the nurse, LSW or Director of Residential Life.
The school nurse will notify the Registrar regarding absences - these absences will then be considered excused. Students are responsible for contacting advisors and teachers regarding missed work and to arrange a time for makeup.
The school nurse does not excuse students from exams. Make-up or extensions on exams can only be done in collaboration with your teacher or Student Support.
Annual Physical Exam and Immunizations
For the safety of the student, MSSM requires that each student have a complete physical exam every year and that current immunization status is maintained. This information must be on file in Magnus before the student arrives at school. All students who enroll in the School are required by Maine law to present a certificate of immunization or evidence of immunization or immunity against poliomyelitis, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chicken pox). MSSM requires in addition that all students be immunized or show evidence of immunity from hepatitis A and meningitis. MSSM also recommends that students be inoculated with the appropriate flu vaccine every year.
A student will not be allowed to participate in athletics, co-curricular, or weekend activities without the required completed health forms. All injuries related to sports activity will be seen by the school nurse.
Where MSSM is a residential School where students are in close proximity for extended times, it is particularly important that students are immunized.
Non-immunized students shall not be permitted to attend school unless one of the following conditions is met:
- The parents/legal guardians provide to the school written assurance that the child will be immunized within 90 days of enrolling in school or his/her first attendance in classes, whichever date is earlier. This option is available only once to each student during their school career; or
- The parents/legal guardians provide a physician's written statement each year that immunization against one or more diseases may be medically inadvisable (as defined by law/regulation); or
- The parents/legal guardians state in writing each year that immunization is contrary to their sincere religious or philosophical beliefs.
- The parents/legal guardians grant written consent for their child to be immunized by a public health officer, physician, Director of Health Services or other authorized person employed by or acting as an agent of the School.
The Executive Director shall exclude from the School any non-immunized student when there is a clear danger to the health of students, staff, and the general public as provided by law. If a student is absent from the School due to conditions in this paragraph for more than ten days, the Executive Director shall make arrangements to meet the educational needs of the student. Any student not immunized shall be sent home in the event of an outbreak of any illness or disease stated above-stated for which the student is not immunized. Unvaccinated students in the case of an outbreak of disease in which they are not vaccinated against will be excluded from School for at least 16 days from the last identified case. The student will be allowed to return to the School once the School's medical personnel deem it appropriate. In the event that the student is sent home due to the conditions in this paragraph, the School is not required to provide tutoring, off-site classes, or other academic accommodations.
The Executive Director, in consultation with School medical personnel, has broad authority to modify the requirements of this policy as conditions and events change.
Students who are exempt from the state’s immunization requirements may be prohibited from attending school and participating in school activities in the event of an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease. Students excluded from the School for this reason will not be permitted to return until (1) the danger of the outbreak has passed; (2) the student becomes ill with the disease and completely recovers; or (3) the student is immunized. In determining whether there is an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease, the School may consult with appropriate medical professionals and/or state and federal public health agencies.
Communicable Illness
The school may exclude from school any student who (a) has a communicable illness, (b) has been exposed to an infected person, or (c) has traveled to an area impacted by a communicable illness, if the School determines that such exclusion is appropriate for the welfare of the student or the school community. The School may also screen students or require students to be screened by appropriate medical professionals to determine whether they pose a risk to the community. The School’s decisions shall be based on current and well-informed medical judgments concerning the illness, the risks of transmitting the illness to others, the symptoms and special circumstances of each individual who has a communicable illness, and an analysis of the identified risks and available alternatives for responding to an individual with a communicable illness.If and when appropriate, the School will disseminate information to students and families regarding campus health and safety issues through regular internal communication channels. For example, the School may provide families with information about the nature and spread of communicable illnesses, including symptoms and signs to watch for, as well as required steps to be taken in the event of an epidemic or outbreak. We encourage all parents and guardians to contact medical professionals with any questions or concerns about communicable illnesses or immunization issues.
Medical Leave
A student may take a medical leave in the case of serious illness, bodily injury, or mental health condition, as determined by an objective medical evaluation. A student’s family may request such a leave at the recommendation of medical professionals. Additionally, if in the School’s judgment, a student is exhibiting symptoms that make the student unable to participate in required academic or extracurricular activities without imposing an undue burden on the school’s resources, the School may recommend that the student be evaluated and subsequently placed on a medical leave. Discussion of a leave of absence—a meeting with the student support team, the parents, and student if appropriate—should begin under the following circumstances:
- When mental health or physical symptoms are preventing a student from functioning academically;
- When a physical or mental health condition is seriously interfering with a student’s attendance at school
- When a student behaves in ways that can be considered self-destructive or dangerous to others; or
- When a student is not engaged in treatment that the School has made a condition of attendance, after the student has been evaluated by medical and/or mental health professionals, who have deemed that such treatment is appropriate.
This initial discussion of a medical leave should establish for school personnel what steps the family is taking to ensure that the student is well enough to participate fully in life at the School; and should establish for the family what further steps the school may take if the problem does not improve. Decisions about granting or requiring a medical leave, or reinstating a student who has been on leave, rest with the student support team; they will be guided by the principal goal of a medical leave: to give the student the opportunity to regain health and thereby function consistently, productively, and safely at the school. In the absence of a treatment plan that meets these needs in the view of these school personnel, the school may require the student to withdraw.
A medical leave agreement will include provisions for the student’s return to school. While a student on leave is excused from attending class, the student must make arrangements with the teachers involved for making up missed material, either while on leave (if possible) or upon return. While the School will strive to minimize academic disruption, the school may require that a student drop a course or courses if a prolonged absence will make it impossible for the student to complete the course. To return to school from a medical leave, a student must provide a thorough, written, professional evaluation of the student’s current mental health or medical condition from the physician, psychiatrist, or other professional who treated the student during the medical leave. The School’s decision about reinstatement will depend on its confidence that the student will be able to function in school without unduly taxing the school’s support and supervisory resources. The School may require additional evaluation by a physician or mental health consultant of its choosing.
The guiding principle of re-admission from a medical leave is the School’s confidence that the student can return safely; and that the student’s return will not compromise the student’s continued recovery, interfere with the school’s ability to serve other students’ needs, or place an undue burden on the school. As a corollary to this principle, a student whom the School determines can safely participate in the regular school day may nevertheless be restricted from participation in overnight field trips or other residential-style school activity.
Concussion Policy
In the fall, all students will be required to undergo a standardized concussion test with the school to establish a baseline. If a student later sustains a head injury or has concussion-like symptoms while at MSSM or while traveling with the school, the following guidelines will be followed:
- The student will be excused from sports for a minimum of 7 days.
- The student will retake the standardized concussion test until their scores return to their baseline results.
- Students may be excused from certain academic obligations by the school nurse or athletic director, in conjunction with the student support team, depending on the severity of their symptoms. In such a case, the student is required to make up any missed work once they have fully recovered.
Supplement Use
MSSM does not condone the use of supplements such as those commonly purchased at GNC stores or online and often used for the goal of enhancing athletic performance, building muscle mass, losing weight, sleeping and not sleeping.. Such substances, which are not FDA approved, can pose serious health risks especially to adolescents. Students instead are encouraged to follow good nutrition habits, sleep well and train within their chosen sport or in the fitness center to achieve their athletic and personal goals. Staff members in athletics and the health center are excellent resources for guidance in these areas. Should a student choose to use supplements, parents must provide permission, and the school strongly suggests that such use be under a pediatrician’s supervision.
Additional Resources
We work closely with students in matters of sexual health and sexual activity. The school nurse is a resource for providing information and literature relative to a variety of health topics such as sexuality, stress, nutrition, drugs, alcohol and conflict resolution. MSSM expects that a relationship of trust and confidence will develop between students and the school nurse. It is possible, however, that the nurse will be entrusted with information which may necessitate additional professional counseling or medical treatment or require reporting to certain state or local authorities.
Sexuality and Intimate Relationships
The school recognizes that sexuality is a normal part of human nature, and its discovery is a normal part of adolescence. However, any level of sexual intimacy can bring with it physical, psychological, and emotional challenges that can be overwhelming to students. In a residential community such as the school’s there are additional considerations: the campus is shared public space, and all members of the community have the right to be free of unwanted exposure to the intimate sexual behaviors of others. The school has the same expectations for students regardless of their sexual orientation.
Students who would like to talk about the meaning of sexual intimacy can talk with a trusted adult, the school nurse, or the LSW so that appropriate support may be provided.
We follow all relevant state laws regarding sexual behavior and reporting.If students are found engaged in sexually intimate behavior, or in a situation that suggests they have been sexually intimate (but where such activity does not necessarily violate the law), the school will generally respond to the situation as a health issue, which may include notification of parents and, as appropriate, referral to the school nurse or LSW. When such behavior is accompanied by violations of other school rules (such as rules governing curfew or dorm intervisitation), the School may respond with disciplinary action.
Discipline, Accountability, and Responsibility
MSSM’s approach to discipline is educational. Thus we believe that students can learn from their mistakes and remain contributing and positive members of the community. While consistency may be a goal in the school’s disciplinary response, we recognize that each situation brings with it its own unique set of circumstances. Students should be aware that they represent the school community at all times, both on and away from campus. While it is not the school’s intention to monitor students in all of their off-campus activities, the school may take disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion, in response to inappropriate conduct occurring outside of campus as long as the student is enrolled in the school. Conduct that violates the law or reflects badly upon the school may be cause for discipline, including dismissal. The school may, in its sole discretion, contact parents to address both minor and more serious instances of misconduct, at any stage of the discipline process. A student’s standing at MSSM is determined on the basis of effort, and conduct. Failure to maintain good standing in any one of these areas may result in dismissal and/or the denial of a diploma. The faculty and administration of MSSM are available to students to consult, to encourage students to seek help and, when necessary, to impose discipline.
Fundamental Rule Violations
A student will receive disciplinary consequences, including the possibility of dismissal from the school in the event an offense is committed in the community. Students who choose to remain present when alcohol, drug, hazing or any other rules are being broken by others may still be subject to disciplinary action. A student may also be dismissed for violating or attempting to violate, or choosing to remain present during the violation of any other rules and regulations of the school, for unsatisfactory conduct, for a generally unsatisfactory record, or for conduct injurious or dangerous to the student, to the school, or to others. Students who approach a faculty member to seek non-disciplinary assistance and support will not be subject to disciplinary action for having chosen to remain in the presence of a rule violation. Each student is responsible for reading this handbook and complying with the school’s rules and regulations. Failure to know the rules and regulations is not a defense. The school’s interest in the conduct of students away from campus is the same as it is in their conduct on campus. MSSM may hold students accountable for their off-campus and online conduct in appropriate ways.
Frequently Referenced MSSM Policies, Rules, and Procedures
Notice of Non-Discrimination
MSSM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, ancestry, national origin, genetic information, or disability in its programs and activities.
- Gregory Hamlin
- Title IX Coordinator, Affirmative Action Officer
- Cell: 1 (607) 301-3922
- Email: titleix@mssm.org
For further information on notice of non-discrimination you may contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights. Web: https://www.hhs.gov/ocr/index.html; Phone: 1-800-368-1019; Email: OCRMail@hhs.gov; TDD: 1-800-537-7697
Gifts
Employees of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics may not accept monetary gifts (including cash, checks, debit cards, gift cards, gift certificates, or any negotiable instrument) from parents/guardians, board members, students, suppliers, vendors, etc., in any amount whatsoever. In the event that a monetary gift is offered, the employee should refer the donor to the Director of the MSSM Foundation, Inc. Official entities organized to support the School (Board of Trustees, Parents’ Association, MSSM Foundation, etc.) may, in their official capacity, provide monetary gifts of nominal value (<$25) to employees. Employees may accept non-cash gifts of nominal value (<$25).
It is against MSSM policy for an employee to accept gifts from any person or business that conducts business, or expects to conduct business, with MSSM. Further, it is unlawful for persons or businesses to give gifts to School staff and for School staff to accept gifts that are intended to improperly influence the School staff in the exercise of their duties.
For the purpose of administrative guidance, gifts do not include advertising items of nominal value such as calendars, pens, or pencils. However, goods and services which involve a pecuniary benefit should be considered to be gifts.
Drugs and Alcohol Policy
MSSM supports a safe and healthy learning environment for students that are free of the detrimental effects of drugs and alcohol.
Maine State Law and the Maine School of Science and Mathematics prohibit the use, possession, or distribution of controlled substances, such as drugs and alcohol on school grounds. Any person possessing, using, distributing or aiding in the distribution of illegal drugs, alcohol or drug paraphernalia shall be subject to disciplinary action as defined under the Disciplinary Procedures and Guidelines section of this handbook.
If a student is suspected of purchasing, possessing, using, distributing, or aiding in the distribution or use of alcohol, drug paraphernalia, illegal drugs, or in the misuse of legal prescription or nonprescription drugs, parents/legal guardians will immediately be contacted. Depending on the circumstances, the administration may notify the appropriate law enforcement officials and take disciplinary action as defined in the Disciplinary Procedures and Guidelines section of the Community Handbook.
Possession is defined as having in one's room, vehicle, on one's person, or cached on or off the premises.
Use is defined as the consumption of drugs or alcohol as determined by direct observations, the emission of the odor of drugs/alcohol, or the positive reading produced via drug/alcohol tests. In addition, other corroborating signs of using include slurred speech, uncoordinated bodily movements, disorientation, and/or incoherence. Students believed to have consumed drugs/alcohol who deny it may be asked to take an alcohol breath test/drug urine test administered in private by an MSSM staff member or a law enforcement official. Refusal to take the test may result in the student being charged with the violation.
Distribution is defined as buying, giving, or aiding in the purchase or distribution of alcohol, drug paraphernalia or drugs to anyone, regardless of whether they attend MSSM.
Tobacco Policy
In order to promote the health, welfare, and safety of students, staff, and visitors and to promote the cleanliness of MSSM facilities, the Board of Trustees, and Maine law prohibits smoking and all other use of tobacco products in school buildings and other School facilities, on School buses, and on school grounds at all times by all persons.In addition, students are further prohibited from possessing, selling, distributing or dispensing tobacco products in school buildings, facilities, on school grounds, and buses during school-sponsored events and at all other times.Employees and all other persons are also strictly prohibited, under law and Board of Trustees policy, from selling, distributing or in any way dispensing tobacco products to students.
Harassment Policy
It is the policy of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics that all employees and students are able to enjoy a work, educational, and living environment free from all forms of distraction, including discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sect, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, status as a veteran, or other protected status. Offensive or harassing behavior is not tolerated against any student or employee.
Harassment is illegal under state and federal laws. This policy covers vendors, visitors, and others who enter our facilities, as well as all students and employees. Administrative personnel are responsible for taking proper action to end such behavior. In an effort to prevent harassment from occurring, this policy against harassment will be communicated to each student and employee. No student or employee of MSSM is exempt from this policy. Offensive conduct or harassment is strictly prohibited. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Offensive physical actions, written or spoken, and graphic communication (i.e., obscene hand gestures or sexually explicit drawings)
- Any type of physical contact when the action is unwelcomed by the recipient; i.e., brushing up against someone in an offensive manner
- Expectations, requests, demands, or pressure for sexual favors
- Slurs, jokes, posters, cartoons, and gestures that are offensive
- Inappropriate or offensive email
All such offensive conduct is considered a form of harassment when any of the following is true:
- There is a promise or implied promise of preferential treatment or negative consequence regarding employment, educational decisions, or status
- Such conduct has the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or living environment; or unreasonably interferes with a person's work performance
- A third party is offended by the sexual conduct or communications of others
Harassment is a form of misconduct. Disciplinary action, including termination of employment or expulsion from MSSM, may be taken against any employee or student engaging in this type of behavior. Any employee who has knowledge of such behavior and does not report it to an MSSM official is also subject to disciplinary action.
Anyone who believes he/she is being discriminated against as a result of harassing behavior based on any protected status is encouraged to report it. Complaints should be made to a school official. Once notified, an immediate investigation of the allegations will be conducted and necessary corrective action will be taken. All complaints will remain as confidential as possible.
Hazing Policy
Maine statute defines injurious hazing as "any action or situation, including harassing behavior, that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of any School personnel or a student enrolled in a public School."
Injurious hazing activities of any type, either on or off School property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with this School, are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times.
"Harassing behavior" includes acts of intimidation and any other conduct that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student or staff member.
"Acts of intimidation" include extortion, menacing, direct or indirect threats of violence, incidents of violence, bullying, statements or taunting of a malicious and/or derogatory nature that recklessly or intentionally endanger the mental or physical health of another person, and property damage or theft.
No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate injurious hazing activities. No student, including leaders of students' organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities.
Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measures. Administrators, professional staff, and all other employees who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
In the case of an organization affiliated with this school that authorizes hazing, penalties may include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on school property or to receive any other benefit of affiliation with the school. Persons not associated with this school who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to ejection from school property and/or other measures as may be available under the law. These penalties shall be in addition to any civil or criminal penalties to which the violator or organization may be subject.
The Executive Director/designee shall be responsible for administering this policy. In the event that an individual or organization disagrees with an action—or lack of action—on the part of the Executive Director/designee as he/she carries out the provisions of this policy, that individual or organization may appeal to the Board of Trustees. The ruling of the Board of Trustees with respect to the provisions of this policy shall be final.
Practical Jokes or Pranks
Students participating in practical jokes or pranks are often bordering on the line of hazing or harassment. To protect the community and individuals, this type of behavior is not permitted and may result in disciplinary actions or dismissal from school.
Student Educational Records
MSSM is in compliance with all State and Federal rules and regulations regarding student information, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Two of MSSM's policies that parents/legal guardians and students should be familiar with are Student Educational Records (Policy Code JRA) and Notification of Rights Under FERPA (Policy Code JRA-E). They can be found on the MSSM website under the Board of Trustees webpage.
Integrated Pest Management Notification
Pest Control
Because pesticides pose risks, the school uses an alternative approach to merely applying pesticides. Control of insects, rodents, and weeds at our school focuses on making the school buildings and grounds an unfavorable place for pests to live and breed. Through maintenance and cleaning, we will reduce or eliminate available food and water sources and hiding places for the pests. We will also routinely monitor the school area to detect pest problems and prevent the pests from becoming established. Some techniques we will use include pest monitoring, sanitation, pest exclusion, proper food storage, pest removal, good turf and plant care, and--as a last resort--pesticides. This holistic approach is often called Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
Pesticide Use
Sometimes pesticide use may be necessary to control a pest problem. When that happens, the school will use the lowest risk approach available. If higher risk pesticides must be used, notices will be posted at application sites and advance notice will be sent home with students.
Your Right to Know
Parents/legal guardians, and school staff will be notified about certain pesticide applications made at the school. Notification will be given at least five days before planned pesticide applications during the regular school year. In addition, for pesticides applied anytime during the year, notices will also be posted in the school and on school grounds two working days before until 48 hours after the application. Notification need not be given for pesticide applications recognized by law to pose little or no risk of exposure to children or staff.
The school also keeps records of pest monitoring, pesticide applications and information about the pesticides used. You may review these records, a copy of the School's Integrated Pest Management Policy and the Pesticides in Schools regulation (CMR 01-026 Chapter 27) by contacting the School at 207-325-3600 and leaving a message for the IPM Coordinator.
If you have any questions, please contact the Maine School of Science and Mathematics' Maintenance Director at 207-325-3794. For further information about pests, pesticides and your right to know, you may call the Board of Pesticides Control at the Maine Department of Agriculture at 207-287-2731 or visit the Maine School IPM web site at www.thinkfirstspraylast.org/schoolipm.
If information in this handbook is contrary to MSSM policy, the policy supersedes this handbook.