SPRINGDALE EDUCATION CENTER - Student Parent Manual 2020-2021 - Positive Regard Network
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S PRINGDALE EDUCATION CENTER Student Parent Manual 2020-2021
Springdale Education Center, Inc.
317 Maple Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
Tel: (413) 420-0115 Fax: (413) 420-0121
www.positiveregard.com
August 31, 2020
Dear Parent/Guardian & Student
Please find the combined Fall 2020 SEC COVID-19 Protocols and Procedures (pages 4 to 12) as well as our current 2020-
2021 School year Student/Parent Manual (pages 13 to 48) which explains our program, policies, and procedures.
As per this revision of this manual, these protocols are in place. SEC works under the guidance of the Massachusetts
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Governor of Massachusetts and the Board of Health. Please be
aware that these protocols could change at any time as per any new guidelines or mandates. We will keep all parents,
LEA’s, service providers and essential stakeholders informed in writing or by phone/email promptly in that event. We
will also repost this document on or website with a new revision date. Please be sure to note the date of the revision of
this manual in the footer of this document.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your patience and flexibility during these unprecedented times.
Sincerely,
Patti Cutler
Patti Cutler,
Director
Page 1 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020TABLE OF CONTENTS
COVID--19 Point Person ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................3
Fall Opening and Communication Protocol................................................................................................................................................................................3
Student Entry and Exit Protocol ...................................................................................................................................................................................................6
Student Exit Protocol .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................7
Sick Student Protocol......................................................................................................................................................................................................................8
COVID--19 Training Protocol ......................................................................................................................................................................................................8
Mail/Vendors/Visitors Protocol ..................................................................................................................................................................................................9
School’s Response to Positive Covid-19 Case .............................................................................................................................................................................9
Parent Attestation ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................10
Covid-19 Liability Waiver ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................11
Parent Consent.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................12
Mission Statement ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................13
Program Description .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................13
Goals of The School .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................13
Hours ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Services..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Student Admissions .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................16
Parental Involvement ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................19
Parent Advisory Group ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................19
Staffing .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................20
Attendance Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................20
Breakfast and Lunch Programs .....................................................................................................................................................................................................20
Behavior Support Policy .................................................................................................................................................................................................................21
Searches and Contraband ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................24
Clothing Policy .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................26
Suspension Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................26
Termination Policy ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................27
Administration of Medication ........................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Preventive Health Care ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................28
Human Sexuality Education ......................................................................................................................................................................29
Toilet Training Program .................................................................................................................................................................................................................32
Emergency Health Care/Emergency Procedures ......................................................................................................................................................................32
Mandated Reporting........................................................................................................................................................................................................................34
Diversity ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................35
Change in Legal Status ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................35
Student Protections .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................36
Registering Complaints ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................36
Bullying/Hazing Prevention Plan .................................................................................................................................................................................................40
Sections 17, 18 And 19 Of the Statute Prohibiting Hazing, Chapter 269 Of the Massachusetts General Laws................................................................42
Civil Rights Policy............................................................................................................................................................................................................................43
AHERA ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................44
2020-2021 School Calendar............................................................................................................................................................................................................46
School Contact Information ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................47
Signature Page ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................48
Page 2 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020COVID-19 POINT PERSON
The health and safety of the students, as well as that of our employees, is our primary concern. To this end, we have
implemented safety measures to minimize the risk of exposure while students are at school following guidelines provided by
the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state
and local regulations and guidelines, including the EEC and DESE (Memorandum, June 7, 2020), and local public health officials
to ensure that our employees work in a safe environment.
1. Springdale Education Center
i. Roni Glynn, R.N.
2. Substitute
i. Jennifer Washington, R.N.
FALL OPENING AND COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
1. IN-PERSON LEARNING MODEL/HYBRID MODEL
As of August 31, 2020, SEC, will provide full-time in school daily services to all enrolled students. School hours will be 8:00
AM - 2:00 PM for all students.
For any student who is unable to attend in person or the parents prefer Remote learning, that student will follow the
same schedule of classes as in-person learners (please see student schedules) via Zoom or Google Classroom. Links
will be sent daily to any remote learner. All students will have the ability to enter their classroom, receive identical
instruction, and have access to all services offered by SEC, albeit remotely.
We expect these students to stay in the remote classroom during breakfast, snack, and lunch in order to benefit from
socialization with their peers.
Staff hours will remain from 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM. All team, administrative, and staff meetings will occur before and after 8:00
AM - 2:00 PM. Staff training may occur several times a week from 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM .
All staff meeting s will take place from 7:30 AM – 7:50 AM and 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM. Our school day/week will include:
1. Elementary students will remain as a cohort group with their teacher daily throughout the day.
2. Middle School and High School students will remain in the same classroom each day as a cohort group. Their
teachers will rotate into their classrooms to ensure that students benefit from each teacher’s expertise and receive
instruction in all subjects.
3. Student IEP’s will be followed and the curriculum will follow the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.
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SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/20204. Desks and chairs will be a minimum of 3-feet apart from each other with the goal of maintaining 6-feet apart
from each other. Please note this is a relaxing of guidelines by the DESE as per July 9, 2020.
5. Masks will continue to be required. Mask breaks will continue to be allowed as requested with a minimum of 2
per day.
6. All classrooms will be equipped with a 40-inch Smart TV to allow remote learning access to the classroom.
7. All classrooms will be equipped with a hover cam for teachers to easily share curriculum and teaching,
8. Art, Music, and P.E. teachers will Zoom remotely into the classroom to provide group instruction.
9. Therapists will Zoom in to provide daily psychoeducation groups.
10. Individualized services outlined in the students’ IEP will remain in person with social distancing in mind as much
as possible.
11. Plexiglass barriers have been purchased to allow an additional barrier and layer of protection.
12. Entry and Exit Protocols include students enter through the “student entrance” on Essex Street and all
employees, service providers, vendors, workmen, postal service, etc., enter in our main entrances on Maple Street.
13. Breakfast, Snack and Lunch will be brought to the classroom by staff and all students will eat at their own desk.
14. Each student will be provided with their own materials and a container marked with their name. Materials will
not be shared.
15. Each student will have their own textbooks.
16. Each student will be provided with their own computer.
17. Teachers will maintain their own computers and materials in their own designated storage container.
18. All students will be recorded in our attendance documentation as “Present” or “Absent” regardless if they are in-
person or remote. We will document in-person or remote through our daily record keeping.
19. Dailies (a record of a student's involvement during the day both in-person and remote) will be completed.
20. Daily grades will be recorded by the teachers. Grades calculation includes attendance, participation, effort, and
completion of work.
21. Report cards and quarterly progress reports will be sent out on the regularly scheduled dates.
22. Communication with parents/guardians will continue to be robust and will include frequent phone calls, texts or
emails from or to case managers, letters sent by the Director, and /or updates by the Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education, the CDC, or the Governor of Massachusetts.
A. IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING SCHOOL OPENING:
I. Parent Attestation Form.
1. Must be signed and completed EACH DAY student is to attend in-person services (see
forms included in packet).
2. If this form does not accompany the student, the parent will be immediately contacted to
either pick up their student or send in the form electronically.
Page 4 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020ii. COVID-19 Liability Waiver Form must be signed and mailed back to SEC in the prepaid
addressed enveloped provided prior to student returning to school.
iii. Parent Consent Form must be signed and mailed back to SEC in the prepaid addressed
enveloped provided prior to the student returning to school.
iv. Flu shots: As per the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, all students are required to
have a flu shot by December 31, 2020.
v. Mask requirements for staff and students.
1. If students are unable to wear a mask, please notify your child’s case manager as soon as
possible.
2. Parents/guardians should provide masks or PPE for their child if able.
3. SEC has PPE available for any student or staff that requires PPE.
4. Bandanas and neck gaiters are NOT ALLOWED.
vi. Hand washing is required of all staff and students.
1. Upon entering the building,
2. Before and after lunch,
3. During transition, and
4. After bathroom use, etc.
vii. Families are asked to send in one change of clothes.
1. However, NO stuffed animals, toys, or any items not required for educational purposes
should be brought to school.
viii. Each student is provided a bin with all necessary items for school purposes that will only be utilized
by them.
1. The items in the bin will be disinfected after each day’s use.
ix. Students will be entering one at a time through the student entrance doors located on the side of the
building and will be exiting through the same door. (Please refer to student check-in/exit protocol).
x. Classroom size is very small to ensure proper distancing between students and staff.
xi. There will be minimal mobility in the building - students will remain in their classes that they are
assigned for the time period they are in school. They will leave their classes only for handwashing,
bathroom or “mask break” activity.
xii. There is appropriate signage marking 6-feet of distance throughout the building and in the
classroom.
xiii. There is appropriate signage regarding handwashing and hand sanitizer protocols.
xiv. Hand sanitizer is provided at all entrances/exits, classrooms, offices, etc.
xv. Breakfast, snack and lunches will be provided to students and will be consumed at their desks in
their assigned classroom.
1. Students will be required to use disposable paper placemats for any food consumed.
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SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020xvi. All water fountains are closed - students will be provided a disposable water bottle.
xvii. There are NO field trips during the Fall Semester as per DESE
xviii. There will be limited sensory item use.
xix. SEC has a disinfecting/cleaning schedule throughout the day to ensure safety and cleanliness.
1. All staff have been trained by certified trainers.
2. Students have been informed during homeroom.
xx. If the student is exhibiting ANY flu/cold symptoms including a fever, they are to remain at home
- likely the student will need to undergo a COVID-19 test and receive results before returning to
school. (Please refer to “COVID19 Protocol – Fall 2020” which was sent home to all parents/guardians and is
posted on our website).
1. If a student comes in displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19, flu, or another
contagious illness, that student will be placed in a designated space (Rm LL02) where they
will await pick up from their parents/guardian, which needs to occur immediately.
2. Likely the student will need to undergo a COVID-19 test and receive results before
returning to school.
3. Case Manager/Designated staff will continuously stay in touch with parents around the
status of their health and who they have been in contact with to ensure that the immediate
family and student has not been around an infected individual.
As restrictions/procedures change, families will be informed in a timely manner by their Case Manager.
STUDENT ENTRY PROTOCOL
1. All students will enter the building through the student entrance on Essex Street.
2. Students are to be removed off of the bus by staff ONE AT A TIME.
a. Next student can ONLY be removed off of the bus or parent drop-off when the prior student is through the
door.
3. STAFF ARE TO ENSURE ATTESTATION IS SIGNED BY PARENT EACH DAY - collect from
driver/student and/or parent prior to bringing the student into the building.
a. If parents are dropping students off - they are to remain in the car until an SEC staff arrives to bring the
student into the building.
i. If a parent/driver arrives late, the student will remain in the vehicle. Parents/drivers will call the
school (413-420-0115) and inform staff of their location. Parents/driver and students will wait until
a staff arrives to bring them inside the building.
b. If a student appears ill - they are to be isolated right away and seen by the school nurse.
c. Hand sanitizer will be located at all entrances and exits for student/staff/visitor use.
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SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020d. ONE Staff will be located at the student entrance with an OPEN plastic bag so that students can put
belongings in the bag PRIOR to entering the building.
i. Name will be written on the bag and placed in a BIN.
e. Student will undergo safety checks (wanding) - maintaining social distancing and the use of PPE.
i. Shoes will only be checked if there appears to be a need - at this time shoe checking will occur
minimally and based on student presentation and/or need.
f. Once the student enters the building, they will be brought to the bathroom to wash hands with soap and
water prior to entering the classroom.
STUDENT EXIT PROTOCOL
1. Students will exit their classrooms one at a time as called by staff when their bus or parent/driver arrives.
2. Students will go through a safety check and retrieve their belongings from their plastic bag that staff hold open for
them.
a. There will be assigned staff outside guiding transportation and ensuring safety of student getting on
transportation - as well as ensuring staff/students are practicing social distancing when feasible.
b. Students will EXIT ONE AT TIME.
SICK STUDENT PROTOCOL
The SEC COVID/ Sick Room is located near the front entrance in Room LL02 (Art and Music Room).
1. Isolate and Transport Students Who are Sick.
a. Immediately isolate a sick child in the designated isolation room.
i. Room LL02 (Art and Music Room).
b. Notify the nurse.
c. Notify the parent/guardian the student needs to go home.
d. Transportation must be arranged as quickly as possible.
2. Advise Families of Sick Students of Home Isolation Criteria.
a. Sick students should not return to SEC until they have met some of CDC’s criteria for return.
i. Stay home except to get medical care.
ii. Stay away from school until 14 days after COVID-19 symptoms are gone.
iii. Call your pediatrician/primary care provider.
iv. Student needs to be tested for COVID-19 prior to returning to school.
v. School should be notified if a student is COVID-19 positive.
vi. May obtain a doctor’s note for return earlier than 14 days that child is COVID-19 free.
Page 7 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/20203. Notification to School Officials if Child Becomes Sick.
a. Parents/guardian should notify school officials if their child becomes sick with COVID-19, test positive
for COVID-19, or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 symptoms or a confirmed or
suspected case.
b. People, including children, with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms – ranging from mild
symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these
symptoms may have COVID-19:
Fever and Chills
Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or Cough
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose, Nasal congestion or rhinorrhea
Nasal congestion or rhinorrhea
Nausea or vomiting, Diarrhea
Poor feeding or poor appetite
4. Cleaning and Disinfecting the Isolation Room After Student Has Left.
a. Close off areas used by a sick person and do not use these areas until after cleaning and disinfecting.
b. Wait at least 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting. If 24 hours is not feasible, wait as long as possible.
COVID-19 TRAINING PROTOCOL
All staff are provided training in the following by the school nurse:
1. COVID-19
a. What is it?
b. How is it spread?
c. What are the symptoms?
d. How to limit potential exposure.
e. When to seek medical assistance for students / staff who exhibit symptoms.
f. What to do if exposed or have a potential exposure.
2. Personal Protective Equipment
a. Gloves
b. Masks
c. Face shields
Page 8 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020d. Gowns
e. Donning and Doffing
3. Hand Hygiene
a. Hand Sanitizer
b. Hand Washing
Students will be trained and reminded daily during home room.
MAIL/VENDORS/VISITORS PROTOCOL
1. Mail
a. Mail is left in the outgoing mail bin in the foyer at the front entrance.
b. Mail is delivered in the incoming mail bin in the foyer at the front entrance.
c. FedEx, UPS, or any packages will be left in the foyer at the front entrance.
2. Outside Vendors/Visitors
a. Will enter through the front entrance only.
b. Vendors/visitors will come to the front office, have their temperature taken, asked the following
questions and sign in.
i. In the past 24 hours have you had cough, shortness of breath, change in taste, or fever?
ii. Do you have a household member + for COVID or awaiting a test?
iii. Have you been within 6 feet for 15 minutes or more of a person with COVID or awaiting a
test?
iv. If yes to these questions, they will not be allowed to enter the building.
c. They will sanitize their hands with handwashing or hand sanitizer prior to proceeding into the building.
d. The vendor or visitor will wear a mask while in the building. If the vendor or visitor does not have one,
the school will supply one.
SCHOOL’S RESPONSE TO POSITIVE COVID-19 CASE
If there is a positive COVID-19 case that has been within the school building the school will coordinate with local health
officials. Once learning of a COVID-19 case in someone who has been in the school, the school nurse will immediately notify
local health officials. These officials will help administrators determine a course of action for their childcare programs or
schools.
Page 9 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020Springdale Education Center, Inc.
317 Maple Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
Tel: (413) 420-0115 / Fax: (413) 420-0121
www.positiveregard.com
This in an EXAMPLE of the Parent Attestation Form.
THIS FORM MUST BE SIGNED AND COMPLETED EACH DAY THE STUDENT IS TO ATTEND IN-PERSON
SERVICES AND GIVEN TO SEC STAFF WHEN THEY EXIT THEIR VEHICLE.
These forms are included in this packet.
Parent Attestation
Parents/Guardians must sign written attestations daily regarding symptoms of COVID-19 or any household contacts with
COVID-19. Parents/Guardians must send along the attestation form with their child each day. Parents/Guardians who
decline to complete the screening, will result in the child not being permitted to enter the program.
By signing the sheet, you attest to the following:
Today or in the past 24 hours, my child has NOT, nor any household members have NOT had any of the following symptoms:
- Fever (temperature of 100.0F or above), felt feverish, or had chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting)
- Fatigue
- Headache
- New loss of smell/taste
- New muscle aches
- Any other signs of illness
In the past 14 days, my child has not had close contact with a person known to be infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-
19).
I have NOT given my child medicine to lower a fever.
Prior to coming to the school, a self-screen was done at home checking for the following symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of
breath, gastrointestinal symptoms, new loss of taste/smell, muscle aches, or any other symptoms that feel like a cold.
Child’s Name _______________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name ________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________________ Date _______________
Page 10 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020Springdale Education Center, Inc.
317 Maple Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
Tel: (413) 420-0115 / Fax: (413) 420-0121
www.positiveregard.com
COVID-19 Liability Waiver
The novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) has been declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization, and in response
to the significant risk presented by this virus, Massachusetts’s Governor has declared a state of emergency, and on March 16.
2020 closed all school campuses except for residential education programs for children with special needs. Following medical
guidance and four key data points regarding the virus, Massachusetts has started its reopening process across the state which
includes the reopening of educational programming for limited in-person summer services on day school campuses.
Springdale Education Center intends to reopen on Monday, July 6, 2020 with limited in-person instruction as prescribed by
state and medical guidance. This date may be subject to change based on the fluid nature of this virus and the required process
for reopening to safely provide in- person instruction. It is our intent to be adequately prepared to safely and effectively provide
your child with educational services through limited in- person instruction. We are following state guidance to ensure our efforts
match those that are prescribed as necessary to reopen in a safe manner.
Please read the following information and sign as to your agreement and acknowledgment.
COVID-19 is extremely contagious and believed to be spread from person-to- person contact and/or by contact with contaminated
surfaces and objects, and even possibly in the air. To prevent the spread, federal, state and local governments, as well as federal
and state health agencies, recommend social distancing.
Springdale Education Center has put in place preventative measures, new procedures, protocols and policies, undergone
trainings, and purchased necessary protective safety equipment to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Springdale Education Center
cannot guarantee that your child will not be exposed to, contract or spread COVID-19. Further, attending school for in- person
instruction increases your child’s risk of contracting COVID-19.
By signing this agreement, you acknowledge the contagious nature of COVID- 19 and voluntarily assume the risk that your child
may be exposed to or infected by COVID-19 by attending school, and that such exposure or infection may result in personal
injury, illness, permanent disability and possibly even death. You understand that this risk may result from the actions,
omissions or negligence by your child, any employee and/or other students at the school. By signing this agreement, you
voluntarily agree to assume all the foregoing risks and accept sole responsibility for any injury to your child including, but not
limited to personal injury, disability, death, illness, damage, loss, claim, liability, or expense of any kind, that your child may
experience or incur in connection with attendance at school or participation in school programming.
On your behalf, and the behalf of your child, you release, covenant not to sue, discharge, and hold harmless Springdale Education
Center, its employees, agents and representatives, of and from claims, including liabilities, claims, actions, damages, costs or
expenses of any kind arising out of or relating thereto now and in the future.
You understand and agree that this release includes claims based on the actions, omissions, or negligence of the school, its
employees, agents and representatives, whether a COVID-19 infection occurs before, during, or after participation in any school
program.
By signing this agreement, I _____________________________________________________(parent/guardian name) acknowledge that
I have carefully read and fully understand all provisions of this release, and freely and knowingly assume the risk and waive my
rights concerning liability as described above:
I, ______________________________________________(parent/guardian) am the parent/guardian of ______________________student
name), who attends Springdale Education Center. I have the legal right to consent to and, by signing below, I do consent to the
terms and conditions of this release.
Parent/Guardian Name: _________________________________________________________________Date: __________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: _____________________________________________________________
Page 11 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020Springdale Education Center, Inc.
317 Maple Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
Tel: (413) 420-0115 / Fax: (413) 420-0121
www.positiveregard.com
Parent Consent
By signing this agreement, I ____________________________ (parent/guardian name) acknowledge that I have
carefully read and fully understand all documents provided to me regarding Springdale Education Center policies,
procedures and placement agreement. I freely and knowingly assume the risk to waive my rights concerning liability as
described contained therein.
I, _______________________ (parent/guardian name), am the parent/guardian of ________________________
(student’s name), who attends Springdale Education Center. I have the legal right to consent to and, by signing below,
I do consent to the terms and conditions of documents provided regarding COVID-19.
Child’s Name ___________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name ____________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________________________ Date _______________
Page 12 of 48
SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/2020MISSION STATEMENT
The Springdale Education Center assists schools, agencies, families, and communities in ensuring the safety of the community.
Springdale Education Center provides a range of education, clinical, psychoeducation, and outreach services for youth 5 - 21
years of age who are challenged with serious mental health issues and have engaged in aggressive or anti-social behaviors.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
SEC is an intensive highly structured therapeutic private day school. SEC operates 12 months from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
SEC provides a comprehensive behavior support system based on natural and logical consequences that encourages and
facilitates youth to accept responsibility for their actions. Cognitive–Behavioral and Relapse Prevention principles are infused
into the daily structure and clinical focus of the program. Students are under constant supervision with a staff to student ratio
of up to 8:1:1. Program routines and zero-tolerance limits are clearly outlined and enforced to ensure the safety and
effectiveness of the program. Physical restraints are performed when deemed necessary by staff and in accordance with MA
DESE regulations. Students participating in the program are immersed in a daily, highly structured educational and clinical
program that includes tutoring and 1:1 assistance as needed. Pre-vocational/vocational education is provided year-round for
those students deemed appropriate. SEC operates four distinctly separate programs based on ages:
SEC Co-Ed Elementary School (grades K-4)
SEC Girls and Boys Gender-Specific Middle School (Grades 5 – 8)
SEC Girls and Boys Gender-Specific High School (Grades 9 - 12)
SEC Co-Ed Young Adults Program (ages 18 – 21)
GOALS OF THE SCHOOL
1. Provide instruction consistent with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and Common Core Standards to
facilitate academic achievement at the highest level possible.
2. Provide students with educational, psycho-educational, clinical, pre-vocational, and recreational activities to facilitate
an increase in their repertoire of personal resources.
3. Prepare students for the successful completion of MCAS testing.
4. Prepare students for reintegration to their home district whenever possible.
5. Prepare students with skills that facilitate successful community living.
6. Provide a variety of services to students and families which enhances positive mental health, positive family values,
and positive communication skills.
7. Provide students with knowledge and skills to disrupt and replace anti-social, inappropriate, and/or abusive coping
responses and behavior patterns.
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SEC Student/Parent Handbook 2020-2021
Revised 8/31/20208. Provide outreach, case management, advocacy, and clinical services to the families of Springdale Education Center
students to maximize community safety and family stability.
HOURS
SEC is open Monday through Friday except for holidays. Student hours are from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM all students. Staff
hours are 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM. Parent(s) may contact the school at any time during staff hours. After hours phone service is
also available to parents or anyone needing to contact administrators during non-school hours. Telephone numbers for
emergency contacts are provided by calling the main school number.
SERVICES
SEC provides extensive Educational, Behavioral, Clinical, Case Management, and Ancillary Services.
1. EDUCATION
The academic program consists of Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Health, and Physical
Education in accordance with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Emphasis is placed on providing comprehensive
instruction so that students may be successful on the MCAS. A variety of electives is continuously offered and may include
outdoor adventure, therapeutic horseback riding, community-based education, art instruction, computer instruction, and a
variety of recreational and leisure skill activities.
Academic programming includes but is not limited to:
a. Academic focus leading towards success on the MCAS
b. ELA, Math, Social Studies, Science, and Health Instruction at all grade levels consistent with the
Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.
c. Electives include swimming, Experiential and Community Based Education, current events, art, music,
and computer instruction.
d. Physical Education instruction
e. Daily homework assignments
f. Small classroom size
g. Community-Based Education
h. Focus on Reading
2. BEHAVIOR SUPPORT
SEC’s behavioral program consists of clear routines and limits as we promote prosocial behaviors, responsible decision-
making, and personal self-respect. We enforce a zero-tolerance policy towards disrespectful, dangerous or anti-social
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Revised 8/31/2020behaviors and attitudes. SEC’s behavioral component is rooted in cognitive-behavioral programming that teaches students to
take responsibility for their actions. All staff and students are thoroughly trained in relapse prevention dynamics, thinking
errors principles, and the use of natural and logical consequences. SEC utilizes a state-of–the art de-escalation program to
significantly reduce the need for physical restraint. SEC’s behavior support principles include:
a. 0-tolerance policies
b. Interpersonal skills development
c. Conflict resolution education
d. Mediation training
e. Assertiveness training
f. Relapse prevention programming
g. Violence prevention
h. Pro-social skills development
SEC’s program has been highly effective in stabilizing disruptive behaviors.
3. CLINICAL
Springdale Education Center provides a comprehensive clinical services department including individual psychotherapy by
licensed clinicians, group therapy, psychoeducation groups 4 days per week, family therapy as needed, psychiatric consultation
when possible, consistent nursing services, daily clinical check-ins, and on-site clinician at all times for emergency services.
Some of the psychoeducation and specialty therapy groups offered include but are not limited to:
a. pro-social skills development
b. conflict resolution
c. fire safety education/fire school
d. cognitive restructuring
e. substance abuse prevention
f. violence prevention/anger management
g. health and hygiene
h. social pragmatics
i. animal care
j. healthy sexuality
4. CASE MANAGEMENT
Springdale Education Center provides extensive case management and advocacy services for all students. Upon enrollment to
the school, a Case Manager is assigned who follows all the needs of the student. Case Managers work closely with parents and
other providers to ensure that communication between the school, home, and other community environments is as seamless
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Revised 8/31/2020as possible. Case Managers assist in advocating for and securing services that may be needed by the student. Case
Management services include:
a. Extensive information management system
b. Community advocacy
c. Community Service Projects
d. Guidance Assistance for:
• School–to–Work
• Higher Education
• Military Career
• Vocational planning
STUDENT ADMISSIONS
1. ADMISSIONS POLICY
SEC will not enroll eligible students under the provisions of 603 CMR 28.00 unless approved to do so by the DESE.
SEC does not discriminate against otherwise qualified handicapped individuals who seek admission or for whom SEC can
implement an Individual Education Plan consistent with its educational, behavioral, and/or clinical services offered. SEC
considers all referrals for admission who meet the SEC criteria.
All newly enrolled SEC students must be found eligible for special education and on an approved Individualized Education
Program.
Prior to the IEP Team meeting that places a student at SEC, students and parents are given a tour of the school and meet with
an SEC Administrator. The tour and meeting allow parents and students to ask questions and get a general outline of the
program’s purpose and services. Parents will also be informed of their rights including student records, the health program
which includes procedures for providing emergency medical health care, and the procedure for the termination of a student.
A parent/student manual and other relevant documentation (SEC policies and procedures) are provided to the parents and
students. Physical Restraint Policies and Procedures explained and are made available to parents of enrolled students. The
SEC Behavioral Support Program is thoroughly explained. Parents/Guardians are informed in writing that they may view the
Policies and Procedures manual located in the lobby and/or they may request a copy. Parents/Guardians receive a
Parent/Student manual which discussed SEC policies and procedures. The Parent/Student Manual is posted online at
www.positiveregard.com along with the SEC Bullying and Hazing Policies. Polices are updated yearly online.
Springdale Education Center has an accelerated admission procedure. All referrals are made through the student's Local
Education Authority (LEA). SEC Case Managers are available to help facilitate the process.
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Revised 8/31/2020SEC will work with the sending school district to ensure that all documentation required is received. Minimal documentation
required includes an updated valid I.E.P., a recent psychosocial evaluation (if available), a statement of the party (LEA)
responsible for the student and a completed physical examination from a licensed physician completed not more than 12
months from the student’s admittance. SEC will work with the parent/guardian to ensure the completion of a physical
examination when the completed physical examination is not available, or in the event of an emergency placement.
In the event of an emergency placement,
a. SEC will make provisions for appropriate assessment and medical evaluation within thirty days of
admission.
b. SEC will notify the placing school district when multiple efforts have been made yet have failed to
involve the parent and obtain necessary parental consent.
c. SEC will notify the placing school district of all contacts with parent/guardian or other appropriate
collateral contacts.
2. ADMISSION CRITERIA
SEC enrolls school-age youth who present significant educational, behavioral, and/or clinical challenges and have been
unsuccessful in other public or alternative school settings. Youth referred to SEC are between the ages of 5 and 21 and have
been diagnosed with a major mental illness (Axis I per the DSM-V) and/or deemed seriously emotionally disturbed and have a
history of aggressive or anti-social behaviors. Additionally, SEC students may be working below grade level, have multiple
learning disabilities, may require specialized and ancillary services such as Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy,
Physical Therapy, Adaptive Physical Education, and are eligible for special education services. Students referred to SEC must
be capable of understanding basic cause and effect principles.
The educational characteristics of these youth may include the history of poor school attendance/truancy, the history of poor
academic performance, evidence of test scores in the low-average to above-average intelligence range, evidence of mild to
severe learning problem(s)/disabilities, evidence of need for small classroom settings to facilitate learning, etc..
The behavioral characteristics of these youth may include history of school suspension/expulsions, history of involvement
with the Massachusetts juvenile justice system, evidence of poor self-image, social immaturity, inability to respond
appropriately to authority figures, evidence of inability to adhere to the school discipline code, history of poor peer skills,
history of anti-social and/or criminal behaviors, etc.
The emotional characteristics of these youth may include evidence/history of major mental illness as defined by the DSMIV-
R, history of severe emotional disturbance, history of PTSD or other mood disorders, history of the need for intensive clinical
intervention, etc.
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Revised 8/31/20203. ADMISSION PROCEDURE
Students are referred to SEC through their local educational authority (LEA). Once SEC receives written notification of
intent to utilize this school and a packet of information minimally containing a current individualized education plan, names,
addresses and telephone numbers of guardians and essential service providers, health/immunization record and
documentation identifying the responsible school district(s), an SEC Case Manager contacts the parent/guardian by phone (or
in-person if necessary) to arrange an intake interview/tour of the facility. The LEA is notified of the interview date and
invited to attend.
Once a parent guardian has toured the facility, they are provided with information about the school services and procedures, is
informed of parent’s rights and involvement in the school as well as has an opportunity to meet the staff and other students
(whenever possible) and finds the school satisfactory for their child, they complete intake documentation and a starting date is
determined for the earliest possible time that the student may start. The LEA is notified as to their start date (if not present)
and transportation is arranged by the LEA. The LEA in conjunction with SEC makes arrangements to convene a meeting to
ensure that all IEP paperwork is signed.
No student may start without a signed valid IEP, and signed documentation in the intake packet regarding SEC’s behavior
support and restraint policy, health record, release of information, emergency medical care, medication administration, and a
Parental Notification (Chapter 71, Section 32A), concerning curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or
human sexuality issues. Other matters concerning parental consent include field trips, research, evaluation, and publicity.
These consents are obtained specifically for an event.
SEC staff make any accommodations possible to assist in starting the student as early as possible as per a parent/guardian’s
wishes. Parent/guardians are provided with school calendars, parents manual, and contact information prior to admission of
the student.
4. ORIENTATION OF NEW STUDENTS AND PARENTS
Prior to admission, SEC shall provide to the parents and the local school district a written copy of the following:
1. SEC’s statement of purpose;
2. The types of services provided;
3. Admissions criteria;
4. Parents rights;
5. Health care, including provisions for emergency health care and/or hospitalization;
6. Planning for both foreseen and emergency terminations;
7. Discipline and behavior support, including physically abusive behavior by a student to himself/herself or others, and
proper use of non-violent restraints;
8. Activities related to daily living skills;
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Revised 8/31/20209. Contractual obligations with regard to payment for services. SEC shall inform in writing any party, other than the
local school district, responsible for the placement of a student that said the party is financially responsible for any
costs incurred as a result of any placement not made pursuant to the special educations laws and regulations;
10. Clothing policy;
11. A description of daily routines;
12. Any specific treatment strategy employed by SEC;
13. A description of any normally occurring religious practices;
14. Name and telephone number of a staff person whom the parents may contact on an ongoing basis;
15. A description of a procedure which the parents or students may use to register complaints regarding the student’s
education and care at SEC;
16. A copy of the approved calendar.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
SEC seeks to involve the student’s parent(s), guardian(s), and/or other caregivers in the activities and programming to the
greatest extent possible. They are encouraged to take an active role in the education and services offered at SEC.
Parent(s)/guardian(s) are encouraged to visit the school and view the learning environment and learning activities.
Parents/guardians are invited to events at the school during the year including but not limited to:
• SEC’s annual open house in October;
• Parent education meetings;
• Restraint review committee
• Parent support groups;
• SEC’s annual Art and Science Fair in May
Parent(s)/guardian(s) are also encouraged to contact the school administrators or Case Managers at any time regarding any
questions, comments, or disputes. They are also encouraged to provide suggestions for improvement at the school.
PARENT ADVISORY GROUP
The Parent Advisory Group Coordinator (Case Manager designated by the Director) runs a Parent Advisory Group (PAG) via
open invitation for all SEC’s parents beginning with Open House in October. The meeting occurs one hour before the Open
house. SEC will invite parents approximately every 3 – 4 months thereafter and at the Art/Science Fair. Notifications are
disseminated via mail. In case of emerging issues requiring PAG input, the Director or designee initiates a meeting via
telephone. Notes of PAG meetings are disseminated to all parents after the meeting.
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Revised 8/31/2020Parent Advisory Group Coordinator: Laura Nash, Case Manager
STAFFING
SEC provides services for students with the following regular staffing:
1. Director
2. Educational Administrator
3. Special Education Teachers
4. Licensed Therapists
5. Case Managers
6. Site Coordinator
7. Lead Interventionists and Interventionists
8. Licensed Nurse
9. Consulting Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist, Occupational therapist and Physical therapist
ATTENDANCE POLICY
SEC students are expected to attend school daily and arrive at the school building on time. Valid excuses for missed school,
tardiness, or early dismissal include medical or dental appointment, court appearance, or a documented family emergency.
When a student is absent and the school has not been notified, a Case Manager or designee calls the child’s residence as early
as possible to determine the reason for the absence. SEC can assist with assuring that the student arrives at school if
transportation is the issue. When a student is absent without a valid excuse, SEC staff may make a home visit to the student’s
residence. LEA’s are notified promptly of all student absences and are provided with monthly attendance reports.
BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAMS
Breakfast is provided to all students upon their arrival at school. Snacks are provided to all students at mid-morning. Lunch is
provided for all students at SEC via the Holyoke School Department via Sodexo. Students may bring their own lunch.
Students receive lunch and breakfast at no cost in accordance with training from Serv-Safe. No student is denied breakfast,
snack, or lunch for any reason.
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Revised 8/31/2020BEHAVIOR SUPPORT POLICY
The goal of the behavior support system is to create a safe learning environment in order to foster the growth and
development of each student.
The objectives of the behavior support system are to:
1. assist students in developing impulse control
2. hold students accountable for their actions and decisions
3. assist students in developing an expanded repertoire of adaptive coping skills
4. assist students in developing an expanded range of effect
5. assist students in developing age-appropriate peer and prosocial skills
6. teach students the skills of negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution
7. assist students in developing study skills
8. assist students in reaching their intellectual potential.
SEC adopts a zero-tolerance strategy to violence, gang-related identification/affiliations, racism, sexism, ageism, and other acts
of human rights violations and self-injurious behaviors.
SEC School uses a psychoeducational model of behavior support that includes, but is not limited to:
1. Cognitive-behavioral programming (i.e. the use of theory including thinking errors, seemingly unimportant decisions,
compromising situations, high-risk situations, adaptive coping skills, etc.)
2. The development of a positive peer culture
3. Opportunities for healthy relationship building
4. The use of natural and logical consequences
5. Self-efficacy and fostering responsibility and accountability
6. The use of physical restraints when necessary
7. Verbal interventions
8. Peer mediation
9. Counseling
These interventions take place within a framework of Routines, Program Limits, and Anchor Points in order to provide an
environmental structure and basis for healthy relationship building. SEC is highly structured to facilitate learning in a safe,
positive environment. SEC has clear program limits and rules that result in the application of a natural or logical consequence
if and when breached.
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