Student and Parent Handbook 2020-2021 - Gengras Center
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Student and Parent Handbook
2020-2021Gengras Center
1678 Asylum Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117
Main Number: 860-232-5616 - Fax Number: 860-231-6795
www.gengrascenter.org - - gcinfo@usj.edu
Main Office
Mrs. Michelle Lestrud, Director 860-231-5429
Mr. Paul LoVoi, Associate Director 860-231-5767
Mrs. Lynn Ford, Assistant Director 860-231-6710
Mr. Sean Tottenham, Assistant Director 860-231-5592
Ms. Katie Decelles, Administrative Assistant 860-231-6743
Ms. Loren Romero, Administrative Assistant 860-231-5201
Ms. Heather Steele, Administrative Assistant 860-231-5756
Nurse’s Office
Ms. Nicole Calling, R.N. 860-231-5277
Mr. Shaun Grakowsky, L.P.N. 860-231-6717
Gengras Staff
Dr. Arlette Cassidy, School Psychologist 860-231-5468
Ms. Rachel Dion, BCBA 860-231-6732
Mrs. Regan Madore, BCBA 860-231-5504
Mrs. Jess Slyne, BCBA 860-231-5255
Mr. Christopher Holley, Social Worker 860-231-5463
Dr. Dede Pope, Social Worker 860-231-5469
Mrs. Elyse Hatch, Music 860-232-5616
Mr. Jeff Dutko, Physical Education 860-232-5616
Ms. Liz Norris, Art 860-232-5616
Ms. Michaela Dwyer, Speech & Language 860-231-5460
Mrs. Kate Filomeno, Speech & Language 860-232-5616
Ms. Britta Hansen, Speech & Language 860-231-5747
Mrs. Laurel Kendzior, Speech & Language 860-231-6737
Mrs. Beth Sorrentino, Occupational Therapist 860-231-5465
Mrs. Emily Burgin, COTA 860-231-5465
Ms. Alyce Gill , COTA 860-231-5465
Mrs. Laura Moss-Kukulka, Physical Therapist 860-231-5650
Ms. Becca Souza, Physical Therapist 860-231-5467
Vocational Department 860-231-5383
Ms. Danielle Rogers, Mrs. Cindy Rosenbluth,
Ms. Megan Rubertone, Ms. Kathleen Walsh and Mrs. Caroline Wilson
1Gengras Center
Student and Parent Handbook
Table of Contents
Arrival/Dismissal 3
Attendance Policies 3
Behavioral Management 3
Calendar 18
Change of Information 3
Communication 3
Community Experiences/Field Trips 4
Dress Code 13
Emergency Use of Restraint or Seclusion 4
Exclusion from School Due to Illness Policy 17
Fundraising 4
Health Services 5
Health, Welfare, and Protection 5
Lunch 5
Mission and Goals 8-10
Reporting Abuse/Neglect 15-16
Safety Drills 5
School Closing/Delay/Early Dismissal Policy 5
School Rules 6, 11
Student Activities 6
Student Records 6
Student Rights 6, 12
Suspension 6
Technology Policy 14
USJ Lab School 7
Visitors 7
2ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL -
Buses should not arrive on campus and park prior to 8:00 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. (12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays).
Students will remain on their busses until Gengras Staff direct students to exit.
Arrival is at 8:30 when buses are unloaded. Students should be in their classrooms by 8:45.
Students will be dismissed at 2:50 p.m. on all days except Wednesday, on which students will be dismissed
at 1:00 p.m.
ATTENDANCE POLICIES See Addendum for policy during COVID-19 It is important for students to attend
school every day no later than 8:45 to maximize their instructional time. If a student needs to be absent a
parent/guardian should notify the school by 8:00 AM by calling 860-232-5616 to report the reason for the
absence. Attendance data is reported to the sending school districts monthly and chronic absenteeism may
result in parent meetings or PPTs. In addition, poor attendance may have a direct impact on credits earned
towards high school diplomas.
BEHAVIORAL MANAGEMENT - A consistent set of behavioral rewards and consequence are used with
students to monitor and take responsibilities for their own actions. It is a goal that students become
independent, contributing members of the community with strong self-regulations skills. Having a system that
helps to modify their behavior, along with the proper support of parent, teachers and friends will allow them to
meet those goals. Rewards for positive behaviors are individualized and may include earning points as a part
of our school-wide behavior system.
Individualized plans will be developed as needed to address specific behaviors or needs of the student.
Following the principals of ABA, we may conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments including Functional
Analyses per PPT recommendations. Subsequent Behavioral Intervention Plans may be recommended and
implemented accordingly. Behavioral rewards and consequences are monitored closely to ensure progress
and growth towards a greater level of independence.
CHANGE OF INFORMATION – Accurate contact information is vital to our school↔home communication.
Please make sure to update all information (i.e. phone numbers – home, cell, work, addresses, email,
emergency contacts, etc.) with the main office in writing to gcinfo@usj.edu, as soon as there is a change.
COMMUNICATION – At The Gengras Center we value the importance of school↔home communication. In
order to keep this relationship active and effective we utilize a variety of methods of communication and
encourage parents to do the same.
Communication Logs/Books: Some teachers utilize logs/books which are sent home daily and
contain important updates on your child’s day. Please read nightly and respond when appropriate.
Email: Our school’s main email is gcinfo@usj.edu. Teacher’s email addresses will be sent home at the
start of the school year.
Notes/Notices: Look for important school notices in your child’s backpack, including information from
the main office as well as the school nurse. At times we also share notices via email.
Telephone Calls: All phone contact with teachers should go through the main phone line (860-232-
5616). In order to keep classroom disruptions to a minimum we ask that you try to make these calls
either in the morning between 8:00-8:30 or in the afternoon between 3:00-3:30, whenever possible.
The school social workers have direct lines and are more readily available to handle your immediate
needs.
Text Alerts: Upon enrollment in school, parents/guardians’ cell numbers are included in our text alert
system. If you have additional numbers or email addresses to add please email them to
gcinfo@usj.edu.
Website: Our Gengras website, www.gengrascenter.org, includes a wealth of information pertaining
to the school program. Classroom news pages, as well as a variety of other summaries, are updated
regularly to provide information on school events and activities, as well as educational and related
services and therapies.
3COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES/ FIELD TRIPS - A community experience or field trip occurs when students
leave the USJ campus for an educational purpose. Types of trips include: one-day field trips as an extension
of the curriculum, as well as recurring outings for instructional purposes, and vocational sites with off campus
work teams. When students are off campus, they are supervised by Gengras Center staff members who are
trained in safety procedures and specific student protocols. In addition, they travel by Gengras Center vehicles
to and from the activities driven by Gengras Center staff members.
Students may not participate in all class trips and may have alternate programming at school if it is determined
he or she is not able to attend a specific outing. Health or behavioral needs may prevent a student from
attending an outing based on discussions with the school team members, parents, and health professionals
as needed. Final decisions regarding a student’s participation in a field trip will be made by the school
administration. Permission for trips off campus is provided on the Major Permissions form signed by a parent
or guardian when entering the program. Students are unable to attend outings until all necessary forms are
returned including the Major Permission form, Emergency Information, and current health records.
EMERGENCY USE OF RESTRAINT OR SECLUSION -
Physical Restraint
Any mechanical or personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the free movement of a person's arms,
legs, or head including. A forcible escort is a type of restraint when a person is carried or forcibly moved from
one location to another.
Physical restraint does not include:
• briefly holding a person in order to calm or comfort the person;
• restraint involving the minimum contact necessary to safely escort a person from one area to another; (i.e.,
temporarily touching or holding for the purpose of guiding or inducing a student to walk to another location)
• medical devices, including, but not limited to, supports prescribed by a health care provider to achieve proper
body position or balance;
• helmets or other protective gear used to protect a person from injuries due to a fall; or
• helmets, mitts and similar devices used to prevent self-injury when the device is part of a documented
treatment plan and is the least restrictive means available to prevent such self-injury.
Any physical restraint or hold of a student that restricts the flow of air into a student’s lungs, whether by chest
compression or any other means is prohibited. Trained staff will employ only physical intervention procedures
that have been authorized for use.
Physical restraint may be used only in the following ways:
- physical restraint or escort may be used on a student at risk only as an emergency intervention to prevent
immediate or imminent injury to the student or others
- physical restraint may not be included as a behavior modification strategy in the IEP
- prior to using physical restraint all less restrictive alternatives must be explored
- physical restraint must never be used as a disciplinary measure or as a convenience
- a student being physically restrained must be continually monitored by direct observation or through video
monitoring with physical proximity sufficient to provide aid as may be needed
- an administrator will be present, during a restraint, and in all cases shall be part of the team to assess the
need for hospitalization or continued restraint beyond 30 minutes
- a student being physically restrained must be regularly evaluated for signs of physical distress.
- the school nurse shall be notified whenever a student complains of an injury from a physical restraint
Seclusion
The confinement of a person in a room, from which the student is physically prevented from leaving.
“Seclusion” does not include an exclusionary time out, in-school suspension, or any confinement of a person
at risk in which the person is physically able to leave the area.
A student at risk may be secluded only as an emergency intervention to prevent immediate, imminent injury to
himself/herself or others; A student being secluded must be continually monitored by direct observation or
through video monitoring within physical proximity sufficient to provide aid as needed. An administrator shall
be present to provide direction on how to proceed if the seclusion exceeds 30 minutes. A student being
secluded must be regularly evaluated for signs of physical distress. The school nurse shall be notified
4whenever a student complains of an injury while in seclusion. Each such evaluation must be recorded in the
behavioral record being maintained for the student.
Exclusionary Time Out
A temporary, continuously monitored separation of a student from an ongoing activity in a non-locked setting,
for the purpose of calming such student or deescalating such student’s behavior. An exclusionary time out
becomes a reportable “seclusion” if or when the student is physically or otherwise prohibited from leaving the
space. All instances of ETO will be recorded on specific data sheets and collected weekly for review.
Documentation should include the nature the ETO, the duration, the location, and any other procedures or
conditions necessary to achieve the desired outcome.
Per Connecticut State Regulation: (1) Exclusionary time outs are not to be used as a form of discipline. (2) At
least one school employee remains with the student or be immediately available to the student such that the
student and school employee are able to communicate verbally, throughout the exclusionary time out. (3) The
space used for an exclusionary time out is clean, safe, sanitary, and appropriate for the purpose of calming
such student or deescalating such student's behavior. (4) The exclusionary time out period terminates as soon
as possible. (5) If such student is a child requiring special education and all the interventions or strategies are
unsuccessful in addressing such student's problematic behavior, such student's PPT shall convene as soon
as is practicable to determine alternative interventions or strategies.
If any instance of physical restraint or seclusion of a student otherwise permissible under Public Act 18-51
exceeds 15 minutes, an administrator or such designee, who have received training in the use of physical
restraint and seclusion, will determine whether continued physical restraint or seclusion is necessary to prevent
injury to self or others. This individual shall make a new determination every 30 minutes thereafter regarding
whether such physical restraint or seclusion is necessary in order to prevent immediate or imminent injury to
the student or others.
All restraints, restraints: forcible escort, and seclusions are recorded and reported using State Department of
Education database and approved forms are sent to the parents/ guardians and LEA.
FUNDRAISING – Throughout the school year the Gengras Center takes on fundraising efforts such as our
plant, holiday pies, and wreath sales. In addition, you will receive information on national programs that we
take part in, i.e. Box Tops, Tools for Schools, Education Express, A+ Bonus Bucks, and Take Charge of
Education. We hope that you will support us as much as possible in these endeavors.
HEALTH SERVICES – The Gengras Center collaborates with a School Medical Advisor for policies and
procedures pertaining to student health and well-being. A full time Registered Nurse leads a team of Licensed
Professional Nurses to meet the daily health and medical needs of the all students. Contact the school nurse
with questions, health and medications updates, 860-231-5277.
HEALTH, WELFARE, AND PROTECTION - Mandated reporters are required to report or cause a report to
be made when they have reasonable cause to suspect or believe that a child has been abused, neglected or
is placed in imminent risk of serious harm. (Connecticut General Statutes §17a-101a) As outlined in Public Act
11-93, DCF will provide Mandated Reporter training and refresher training to all school district personnel that
are deemed to be mandated reporters. As school personnel, it is our intent to work together with families and
communities to improve child safety and advance the overall well-being of children which is the central focus
of the Department of Children and Families (DCF). DCF protects children who are being abused or neglected,
strengthens families through support and advocacy, and builds on existing family and community strengths to
help children who are facing emotional and behavioral challenges. (See additional policies on reporting
suspected child abuse or neglect for child under 18 to DCF and for those 18 and over to the Abuse Investigation
Division of DDS).
LUNCH - The Gengras Center Lunch Program will be available to students on the first day of school. Hot
lunch service begins immediately. The cost for each lunch will be $3.00. Milk, which is included in the lunch,
may also be purchased separately for 50¢. Students who purchase lunch at the food court in the university
cafeteria will be charged $4.50.
The Gengras Center follows federal guidelines for free and/or reduced-price lunches and milk. Please see the
appropriate form for additional information related to this program.
5A monthly lunch calendar will be distributed by the first day of each school month and will be posted on our
website. You may send in payment to order a lunch or milk in lump sums (i.e. $100.00) from which we will
deduct each time your child orders, or on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
Lunch is provided by Sodexho, our food service on the campus of the University of Saint Joseph. Please notify
our nurse or dietician of any allergies we need to be aware of for lunch or snacks served at school.
SAFETY DRILLS -
Fire drills are scheduled on a monthly basis for both buildings. All staff and students must safely evacuate
and re-enter the building, following procedures and primary exit routes established for each location.
Lockdown drills are conducted in both buildings on a quarterly basis. During lockdown drills, students and
staff are to shelter in place or in the nearest safe location until the drill is officially cancelled.
Evacuation drills are conducted regularly with our students and staff vacating the building to a designated
on-campus location. In conjunction with the USJ Department of Public Safety, established procedures and
guidelines will be followed to ensure student safety.
SCHOOL CLOSING/DELAY/EARLY DISMISSAL POLICY – All closings/delays/early dismissals will be
announced via media outlets. Look for text alerts, watch channels 3 (WFSB), 30 (NBC), or 61 (FOX), or look
up the listings on the stations’ websites. Look for GENGRAS CENTER for accurate information, NOT the
University of Saint Joseph or West Hartford Public Schools. Parents are encouraged to sign up for text/email
alerts pertaining to the Gengras Center offered by any of the stations.
School closing:
The Gengras Center will be closed if the University of Saint Joseph is closed due to inclement weather or an
emergency.
Delayed opening:
If the University of Saint Joseph is operating on a delayed opening schedule, (60-90 minutes), the Gengras
Center will operate on a delayed schedule as well.
Early Dismissal:
In the case of inclement weather, the Gengras Center will announce an early dismissal. Parents should
monitor local media outlets (above) and text alerts for all early dismissals.
SCHOOL RULES - As in any other community, The Gengras Center has a set of basic school rules. These
are rules that apply to all students throughout the school day, in all settings. Students at the Gengras Center
are expected to demonstrate responsibility, good judgment, and care for each member of their school
community. These school rules are established to provide standards that promote adherence to this code of
conduct. Failure to follow the school rules is a violation of this code of conduct and will result in an appropriate
consequence for the decision the student has made. See attached School Rules (pg. 11).
STUDENT ACTIVITIES – In addition to the numerous classroom activities each student is involved in, school
wide student activities are scheduled as well. Some of these activities take place during regular school hours,
while others occur after school or in the evening. The activities include but are not limited to our annual Open
House, various plant sales to support our greenhouse, a holiday show, dances including the prom for our high
school students, and family sports and craft activities. At the start of each school year, a calendar of events is
sent home with each student and posted on the Gengras Center website.
STUDENT RECORDS - While a student’s permanent record is maintained by the sending school district, the
Gengras Center keeps a written record for each student which includes administrative, treatment and
educational data from the time of “consideration for admission” until the time the student leaves the program.
In all cases, the rights of the child are protected by The Gengras Center under its Policy and Procedures on
Exchanging Confidential Student Information. Parents/guardians may request (in writing) access to their
child’s records. The student’s education file is maintained by the sending school district upon the student’s
discharge from The Gengras Center program.
6STUDENT RIGHTS - Every student has certain due process rights at The Gengras Center that cannot be
taken away. Failure for these rights to be granted would be a violation of proper professional practice and
shall not occur. See attached Student Rights (pg. 12).
SUSPENSION – At times a student’s actions may require the administration to impose an in-school or out-of-
school suspension. The administrator must first give the student an opportunity to explain the situation and
inform the pupil of the reason for the suspension. The parent/guardian, surrogate, and school district are
notified as soon as possible.
Guidelines:
Removal from regular classroom activity or schedule for more than 90 consecutive minutes constitutes an
in-school suspension.
Any student serving in-school suspension should not be permitted to interact with the general school
population throughout the period of suspension.
Any student serving in-school suspension must be permitted to complete any classwork which the student
missed while in suspension.
The student’s special education teacher/case manager will assign appropriate classwork, provide
assistance as needed, and monitor the student’s progress.
If the student requires additional supports and related services during the period of suspension, those
supports and services must be provided, as appropriate, in the suspension area.
A student may be given an out of school suspension only if, during an informal hearing held by the
administration and key staff prior to suspending the student, the administration determines that:
the student being suspended poses such a danger to students or property that he/she must be excluded
from school during the period of suspension; OR
the student being suspended poses such a disruption of the educational process that he/she must be
excluded from school during the period of suspension.
USJ LAB SCHOOL - As a lab school for the University of Saint Joseph, we provide training, field placements,
observation sites, hands-on experience, and research opportunities in the areas of assessment, planning,
lesson design, instruction, and behavior management for University students. The opportunity is available to
students who major in special education, applied behavior analysis, nursing, dietetics, social work, psychology,
among others. Students are often assigned to our school to learn from the expert teachers and clinicians,
which allows them to see firsthand how to instruct and work with school aged children. The observations and
experiences may be in-person, by video, or through case studies. Your child may be involved in an instructional
activity, lesson, observation, research study, assessment, or other university student course work with
university students at any time during the school year or extended school year. Gengras Center staff supervise
all USJ students during the course assignments and remain with the Gengras Center students at all times.
VISITORS - See COVID-19 Addendum for policies related to visitors for the 20-21 school year. We
welcome visitors to our school so we can share the exciting learning that goes on in our classrooms. However,
we ask that they follow the following procedures regarding their arrival, presence, and departure so that the
learning, welfare, safety, and confidentiality of our students are not compromised.
All visitors, including parents, are
Required to report to the Main Office.
To sign in and out in a Log Book.
To wear a "Visitor" badge while they're in the school.
To return the badge to the office when they sign out.
Any adult seen walking around the building without identification will be asked to go to the office to check in.
Well-intentioned but unexpected visitors may take up needed instructional or preparation time that teachers
use to deliver quality education to your child. Our teachers and clinicians value communication with parents
and will arrange a time for observations and meetings only with advanced notice. All visitors wanting to observe
or stay in the building longer than 10 minutes must pre-arrange a mutually convenient time to visit the
classroom or meet with the teacher. If visits or observations become disruptive to the learning environment,
specific plans may be established by administration on a case-by-case basis.
7Gengras Center
Mission and Goals
MISSION:
The mission of the Gengras Center is to guide each student to reach his or her potential by facilitating learning,
social communication and independence for students aged 5 to 21 with intellectual and developmental
disabilities, including autism and related challenges. We accomplish this through:
Individualized assessments and program planning
Small group and individual instruction with a high staff to student ratio
Speech and language therapy including AAC
Behavioral intervention and programming utilizing an ABA approach
Artistic expression through art, music, and drama
Social work services including social skills training and counseling
Wellness education through health, nutrition, and physical education classes
Physical and occupational therapy
Community instruction and safety training
Vocational experiences and employment training
Transition support and planning
We believe that learning and personal development must encompass the total child through an evidence-
based approach that embraces all social, academic, therapeutic and vocational components. At the Gengras
Center, these elements are individually tailored for every student, with communication, self-determination, and
independent living skills all being an integral part of the overall approach.
GENGRAS CENTER GOALS:
Program:
1. To develop and implement a competency-based curriculum for development and remediation of daily living,
functional academic, vocational/career, personal/social, and problem-solving skills.
2. To provide for a transdisciplinary team approach for continual assessment of the learners’ needs,
development and modification of curriculum and program to meet the learners’ specific needs and increase
independence.
3. To provide a comprehensive career/vocational program which incorporates a developmental progression of
career/vocational skills (awareness, exploration, preparation, transition planning, and placement) within the
Gengras Center, on the University of Saint Joseph campus, and on job sites in the greater Hartford
community.
4. To provide for planning/placement team meetings as needed to review each learner's performance and
progress to develop or modify his/her Individualized Education Plan.
5. To provide a community referenced curriculum with frequent opportunities for community participation
through supervised outings.
6. To provide for support services to meet the unique needs of each learner (speech/language therapy,
counseling/social skills, physical/occupational therapy and nursing care).
7. To provide progress updates and report cards on at least a quarterly basis, indicating the student's
performance on his/her IEP goals and objectives.
8. To utilize a referral intake team and process for determining referral placement disposition and program
planning.
89. To provide a sports and extracurricular activities program to facilitate socialization and school-related
experiences and empower the student toward lifetime goals.
10. To provide a summer school program (ESY) for those students as identified through the planning and
placement team process.
11. To create and maintain an environment conducive to optimum learning for each student through the
provision of programs for: (a) academic development (including art/music/p.e. curricula); (b)
career/vocational development; (c) social/emotional growth that enhances the development of the total child
with dignity and self-esteem; (d) life skills; (e) community skills; and (f) transition to adult services.
12. To utilize traditional and specialized technology to enhance the teaching/learning process.
Students:
1. To provide an assessment and orientation period to develop or modify a new student's Individualized
Education Plan.
2. To provide student/school rules, expectations, and contingencies to assist each student in becoming
responsible for his/her own behavior and individual choices.
3. To provide an ongoing and/or summative evaluation system for monitoring and assessing student
performance to determine the most appropriate instructional modality and educational plan.
4. To participate in the annual Smarter Balanced Assessment, SAT and Connecticut Alternate Assessment
(CTAA) process per state and district requirements and PPT decisions.
5. To facilitate transition planning for our older adolescents.
Parents:
1. To provide for and encourage parental involvement and support through parent conferences, visitations,
PPTs, parent activities, volunteer work, and attendance at parent education sessions.
2. To establish, implement, and evaluate supportive services to provide parents opportunities for cooperative
planning and extend the availability of informational and educational programs.
3. To facilitate ongoing, open communication (telephone, email, communication books, classroom newsletters,
etc.) with parents and guardians.
Staff:
1. To provide licensed and/or certified, “highly qualified” professionals in the areas of social, academic,
vocational support to implement educational programs and related services.
2. To maintain and periodically update the policy manual for all staff, indicating the Center's program design,
policies, staff/curriculum development plan, and job position descriptions.
3. To provide annual mandated training (PMT, safety and student risk, blood-borne pathogens, van safety,
harassment, and discrimination, FERPA and confidentiality, student abuse/neglect, etc.) for all staff, and at
least a total of 18 hours yearly of professional development workshops for certified/licensed staff.
University:
1. To provide a laboratory facility for the training (supervision-demonstration-evaluation) of teachers and
others in child-related disciplines. Undergraduate and graduate students will have ample opportunities to
conduct on-site observations, fieldwork, practicum experiences, internships, work study programs and course
related projects. Research and mutual programming for the students and faculty of the university community
are conducted. Gengras Center professionals also serve as adjunct faculty and guest speakers in a variety of
courses offered by the university. Gengras staff collaborates with the staff at the School for Young Children
to share educational resources and training expertise.
9Gengras Center
School Rules
As in any other community, the Gengras Center has a set of basic school rules that apply to students
throughout the school day, in all of settings, both in school, on campus, and in the community.
Students at the Gengras Center are expected to demonstrate responsibility and good judgment, and
care for each member of their school community. Students must remember that they represent the
Gengras Center and their actions affect those around them. A physically and emotionally safe
environment is everyone’s responsibility.
1. The Gengras Center promotes a safe and secure school climate conducive to teaching and learning. In
accordance with state law, it is the policy that any form of bullying behavior, whether in the classroom, on
school property or at school-sponsored events, or using any technology such as the internet, social networks,
or cell phones, is prohibited. Such behavior is disruptive of the educational process and, therefore, not
acceptable in any setting.
2. No fighting or physical altercations, including hitting, kicking or throwing objects at another person.
3. No swearing or use of profanity or violent language during interactions with peers, staff, or in written
assignments or notes.
4. No smoking or use of smokeless tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and unregulated tobacco products will not
be permitted on or within any building, outside space, on campus or at any school related event.
5. No possession or use of illegal drugs/alcohol or potentially harmful substances.
6. No potentially harmful objects/weapons allowed on school property. This includes toys that may be
mistaken for a potentially harmful object or weapon.
7. No unauthorized leaving of the school building or an assigned class area.
8. Students will respect school property and refrain from damaging the belongings of others/the school.
9. No exchanging and/or sharing of food without prior permission.
10. Students who are permitted to carry a cell phone will be required to turn it in to the teacher upon arrival
or secure it in a specified location within the classroom or main office
11. iPods, music players, or other devices used for recreational purposes are allowed by special permission
only and may be limited to bus use.
12. No money can be exchanged between students.
13. Use of school telephones by permission only.
14. Students must follow the dress code.
15. Students must receive explicit permission to use personal devices to take pictures, videos, or audio
recordings during any school activity. All pictures, videos, and audio recordings taken during the school
day are the property of the Gengras Center and will be monitored, downloaded, managed, and deleted
by staff as needed. Pictures, videos, or audio recordings are not to be shared by students or guardians
on public forums or social media without explicit written permission. If a student posts any media without
permission, he or she will be required to remove it immediately with staff present and the student may
lose privileges associated with technology including the internet.
Consequences will be assigned by staff according to the severity of the infraction. In the case of more
severe behaviors, the Gengras Center administration will be notified and will monitor and assign
consequences.
Steps may be taken such as, loss of points, drops in behavioral level, contingencies, in-school suspension,
out-of-school suspension, development of individualized behavioral plans and safety contracts, parent
conferences and/or a Planning and Placement Team meeting.
Students who follow school rules are provided with privileges, special activities, and rewards.
10Gengras Center
Student Rights
Student Rights: The Gengras Center staff will recognize, respect, advocate and protect the individual human
rights of each learner. A statement of a student’s basic rights follows:
Students have a right to privacy and confidentially. Permission is required for students to be
included in pictures, slides, videos, newspapers, and other public forums such as the website.
Students have a right to maintain and be treated with personal dignity and respect. Bullying and
cyber bullying are never tolerated.
Students have the right to have equal opportunities to participate in functional academics and
nonacademic/extracurricular activities at the Gengras Center.
Students have the right to receive accommodations, modifications, and related services that will
meet the child’s needs. The need for and coordination for adaptive equipment and assistive
technology will be determined through the PPT process.
Staff will utilize the least restrictive behavioral intervention needed to ensure student safety.
Parents will be notified when physical behavioral intervention or emergency seclusion is utilized.
Students will be free from physical, mental, or monetary exploitation.
Students have the right to advocate for themselves.
Students will participate in PPT’s and decision making to the greatest extent possible.
Student records are confidential and will not be released without a record release signed by a
parent or legal guardian. Only educational documents created by the Gengras Center staff may be
released to a parent or guardian.
Students who qualify as an emancipated minor, or at age 18 become their own legal guardian are
entitled to participate in all procedures which would typically require parental participation or
permission.
Title IX is a federal law to ensure that male and female students, employees, or applicants in educational
settings are treated equally and fairly. It protects against discrimination based on gender. Our Title IX
coordinator is Paul LoVoi, 860-231-5767.
The Gengras Center adheres to all amendments made to the Title IX regulations which prohibits discrimination
against any persons on account of their race, color, religious creed, age, sex, gender identity or expression,
sexual orientation, transgender status, marital status, national origin, ancestry, disability (including, but not
limited to, intellectual disability, present or past history of mental disorder, learning disability, or physical
disability), genetic information, homelessness, prior conviction of a crime, or any other characteristic protected
by law, in the administration of its educational policies.
11Gengras Center
Student Dress Code
Appropriate clothing must be worn during in-person and remote instruction
The following standards for dress and personal hygiene are to provide guidelines which promote the
awareness between appearance and cleanliness for social, behavioral, academic, and vocational
achievements. It is intended to promote individuality, responsibility, personal independence, and safety.
The dress code will be enforced in conjunction with school policies, rules, and student rights to ensure a
productive learning environment.
STANDARDS:
Clothing should be clean, in good condition and fit properly. Shoes must be tied, pants are to be worn
on the waist, and pant legs will be worn properly. No revealing clothing is permitted. Clothing must
cover waist and thighs; no short skirts, or midriff shirts.
Clothing should be free of obscenities, statements, or pictures, which are offensive toward person(s),
group(s), the school, or other organizations.
Jewelry should be minimal and not a distraction from the learning environment. Dangling earrings,
large rings, large chains around ones’ neck or otherwise may need to be removed for safety. No
visible body piercings other than earrings are permitted.
The school is fragrance free so students should not wear cologne or scents. Fragrance free lotions,
sunscreen and deodorant is acceptable and encouraged.
No clothing, jewelry, buttons and/or patches which advertise tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and illegal
substances, or depict illegal acts, weapons, or promote violence.
No hats or other head coverings (including hoods) are to be worn in the building.
No coats/jackets are to be worn after entering homeroom.
Appropriate footwear must be worn at all times.
Appropriate shorts will be allowed during the months of May, June, July, August, and September.
Short shorts, cut-offs, and boxers are not acceptable.
Tattoos that are violent, obscene, hateful, or disrespectful are not permitted and must be covered at
all times.
If any questions concerning the dress code should arise as to what is appropriate, the clothing should be
brought (not worn) in and a decision will be made. In general, the Gengras Center relies upon the good
judgment and cooperation of both students and their parents in the implementation of these standards. The
Gengras Center reserves the right to implement Individual Behavioral Plans or contracts on an ongoing basis
that may include modifications to this dress code.
12Gengras Center
Technology Policy
Electronic devices including, computers and iPads, are used to support learning and to enhance instruction.
The Internet allows people to interact with hundreds of thousands of networks and computers. It is the policy
of the Gengras Center that all devices will be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical, and legal manner.
Failure to adhere to the policy and guidelines could result in the loss of privileges to the internet or devices.
This agreement applies to stand alone units, as well as units connected to the network or the Internet
through USJ Wi-Fi. In addition to school disciplinary action; monetary remuneration may be sought for
damage necessitating repair or replacement of equipment.
The Gengras Center reserves the right to access e-mail, to retrieve information and records, to engage in
routine maintenance to carry out internal investigations, or to disclose messages, data or files as needed if
student safety or privacy is in question.
Any information contained on a school owned computer hard drive, external drives, shared networks or electronic
storage systems are considered the property of the University of Saint Joseph and Gengras Center.
Teachers or other staff members shall assign specific sites, resources, and/or materials to be explored by
students. Any deviation from the assignment requires staff approval.
STUDENTS RESPONSIBLITIES:
Always use language that you know is appropriate and respectful in your messages. Never send, or
encourage others to send messages that are not polite or contain abusive or profane language. A
teacher or other staff member will be closely monitoring each student for appropriateness of subject
matter.
Use computers/devices in a responsible and ethical manner.
Obey general school rules concerning behavior and communication that applies to iPad/computer use.
Use all technology resources in an appropriate manner so as to not damage school equipment.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES STRICTLY PROHIBITED:
Do not use the Internet for illegal purposes or engage in illegal activities using the computer or
networks. This includes sending or receiving copyrighted materials without permission.
Illegal installation or transmission of copyrighted materials.
Sending, accessing, uploading, downloading, or distributing offensive, profane, threatening,
pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit materials.
Internet/Computer Games not being used for instructional purposes.
Sending inappropriate emails.
Gaining access to other student's accounts, files, and/or data
Use of the school's Internet for financial or commercial gain or for any illegal activity.
Use of anonymous and/or false communications.
Taking unauthorized photographs or recordings of other students, staff, activities or environments.
Students are not allowed to give out personal information, for any reason, over the Internet.
Vandalism (any malicious attempt to harm or destroy hardware, software, or data, including, but not
limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or computer programs that can infiltrate
computer systems and/or damage software components) of school equipment will not be allowed.
Transmission or accessing materials that are obscene, offensive, threatening or otherwise intended to
harass or demean recipients.
STUDENT OWNED DEVICES:
Students may bring their own device, such an iPad or cell phone, to school to use for communication or
educational reasons. If the device is strictly for leisure and non-educational the classroom teacher will
establish rules for storage and usage. The school, University of Saint Joseph, or staff are not responsible for
lost, stolen, damaged, or broken devices. If repair or replacement is needed to a personal device, it is the
responsibility of the student, family, or guardian. USJ nor the Gengras Center is responsible for lost, stolen,
broken, or damaged electronic devices owned by a student, his/her family, or the LEA.
13Gengras Center
Policy and Procedures on Reporting Suspected Abuse/Neglect
of a Student (Child or Person 18 and Over with Intellectual Disability)
I. POLICY: In accordance with public policy of the State of Connecticut, it is the intent of the Gengras
Center “to protect [students] whose health and welfare may be adversely affected through injury and
neglect; to strengthen the family and make the home safe for children by enhancing the parental
capacity for good child care; to provide a temporary or permanent nurturing and safe environment for
[students] when necessary...” through reporting and referring suspected abuse, neglect, or students at
risk to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or the Abuse Investigations Division of DDS;
and working cooperatively with DCF/DDS and parent/guardians to enhance safety and welfare of
students.
The goal of the intervention policy is to protect the health and safety of students who may have been
abused or neglected, or are in danger of being abused, and to ensure compliance with the law. School
personnel are in a unique position to observe or detect symptoms of abuse and neglect. Therefore, it
is important, and legally mandated, for school systems to have an established policy to facilitate the
rapid and coordinated response to a suspected case of abuse or neglect. As outlined in PA 11-93, all
school personnel are mandated reporters. A mandated reporter is obligated to report any reasonable
suspicion learned during the ordinary course of the person’s employment or profession.
Staff at the Gengras Center are also mandated (C.G.S. section 46a-11a, effective 2/1/85) to report if
they have reasonable cause to suspect or believe that any person 18 years of age or older with an
intellectual disability has been abused or neglected.
No person at any level of authority may prohibit or interfere with reporting of suspected abuse or neglect
to DCF or the Abuse Investigations Division of DDS. Likewise, the school shall not discharge,
discriminate, or retaliate against any school district employee who makes a good faith report. These
prohibitions also apply to someone who testifies or is about to testify in any proceeding involving abuse
or neglect. (Section 17a-101e(a))
II. DEFINITIONS OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT:
Abuse occurs where a [student] has had non-accidental physical injury inflicted upon him other than
by accidental means, has injuries at variance with history given of them, or is in a condition resulting in
maltreatment, such as, but not limited to, malnutrition, sexual molestation or exploitation, deprivation
of necessities, emotional maltreatment or cruel punishment. (Connecticut General Statutes §46b-120)
Neglect occurs where a [student] has been abandoned, is being denied proper care and attention
physically, emotionally, or morally, or is being permitted to live under conditions, circumstances or
associations injurious to his well-being. (Connecticut General Statutes §46b-120)
III. PROCEDURE:
1. Teacher/Staff who has reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect for any student (as defined
by Connecticut General Statutes) reports to an administrator.
2. Administrator will share concerns verbally with support staff (Center's school psychologist and/or
social worker).
3. Gengras Center support staff who are knowledgeable on state guidelines regarding child abuse
and neglect will coordinate and take responsibility for collecting information from students with
consideration for sensitive issues of confidentiality, trauma, fear, etc… and processing the case.
4. A clinical intervention team, composed of the school social worker or psychologist, nurse and the
Director, will assess the immediate health and safety needs of the student.
145. The school nurse may be asked to substantiate/document the suspected abuse.
6. For students UNDER 18: An oral report must be made as soon as practicable but not later than
12 hours of having reasonable cause to suspect or believe abuse/neglect has occurred to the DCF
Child Abuse and Neglect Careline at 1-800-842-2288. (Section 17a-101b(a)) A written report must
follow within 48 hours and fulfill requirements on form DCF-136. The Gengras Administrator must
be notified of report to the DCF Careline. (Section 17a-101c)
When making a report, a mandated reporter is required to provide the following information, if
known:
Names and addresses of the child and his parents or responsible caregiver(s)
Child’s age and gender
Nature and extent of injury, maltreatment or neglect
Approximate date and time the injury, maltreatment or neglect occurred
The circumstances in which the injuries, maltreatment or neglect became known to the
reporter
Previous injury, maltreatment or neglect of the child or siblings
Name of the person suspected to have caused the injury, maltreatment or neglect
Any action taken to treat or help the child
Any other information the reporter believes would be helpful
For students 18 and OVER: An oral report must be made as soon as possible to the Abuse
Investigations Division (AID) of DDS, 1-844-878-8923. If AID does not take the report, a call should
be made to the DDS Abuse & Neglect Liaison. The Director of Gengras will be notified immediately
that a verbal report has been made.
The report shall be followed by a written report per the agency guidelines. The Director of Gengras
will be given a copy of such report at the time of filing.
7. The Administrator and/or Gengras Center support staff shall determine whether to immediately
notify the student's parent or other person responsible for the student's care that a report to
DCF/DDS has been made. The safety of the child will never be compromised. (Section 17a-
101b(a)).
8. If the report concerns a certified school employee, the Administrator will send a copy of the written
report to the Commissioner of Education (Section 17a-101c). If after investigation, DCF/DDS has
reasonable cause to believe that the student has been abused by a certified school employee,
DCF/DDS will notify the Gengras Center Director and provide records of the investigation. The
Director will then suspend the employee and follow procedures outlined by the state.
9. If the Gengras Center receives a report of suspected abuse/neglect from another agency or
reporter, the information must be transferred to DCF/DDS within 12 hours.
10. Gengras Center support staff will assist/consult with the DCF staff in coordinating services to
parents and providing follow-up on cases. Additionally, the team will support students and school
personnel throughout the reporting process, monitor affected students; and work with families and
other community service providers. The Gengras staff will fully cooperate with any DCF/DDS
investigation.
11. Reports of suspected student abuse or neglect will be maintained in a separate strictly confidential
student file.
12. DCF Mandated Reporter Training will be conducted regularly as outlined in PA 11-93 and Gengras
Center Staff will also be updated annually on Abuse Investigation Division procedures.
15Exclusion From School Due to Illness Policy
See COVID-19 Protocols for additional policies
Symptoms of illness can appear suddenly; they progress rapidly in children, and infections spread easily in school
settings. Many of our children are very susceptible to viruses.
In an attempt to minimize the spread of illness, we are requesting that you keep your child home if he/she exhibits any
of the symptoms described below. If you are unsure as to whether or not your child’s symptoms are indicative of an
illness, we are requesting that you keep your child home for the day. Unusual behavior changes or sleep patterns
may also be indicative of the onset of illness. If your child is sent home due to illness, or becomes sick at home,
keep him/her home for at least 24 hours after ALL symptoms have subsided. A child sent back to school too
soon will usually be more susceptible to other illnesses, and may put other students at risk.
In the event the West Hartford or Bloomfield Health Districts determine a possible outbreak of a communicable illness;
they will determine how long a student with symptoms must remain out of school. It is essential that all students
exhibiting symptoms comply with Health District regulations to maintain the health and safety of all students and staff.
SYMPTOMS OF ILLNESS REQUIRING YOUR CHILD TO STAY HOME
OR BE REMOVED FROM SCHOOL
Fever: Temperature of 100.4º F or higher.
Diarrhea: One or more episodes of watery or loose stools.
Vomiting: Two or more times in a 14-hour period.
Body Rash: Rashes are frequent occurrences in children. However, if the rash is accompanied by
fever, or causes severe itching or discomfort, your child should remain at home until the
symptoms disappear, or are treated by a physician who gives you a written clearance for
him/her to return to school.
Eye Discharge: Thick mucus or yellow/green drainage from the eye, crustiness along eyelids which
appears after cleaning, or “pink eye”.
Earache: Children can experience much pain with an earache and are more comfortable at home.
Sore Throat/ Severe sore throat especially accompanied by fever and/or swollen glands may be strep
Fever/ throat. Strep throat requires treatment with antibiotics. The child MUST be on antibiotics
Swollen Glands: for at least 24 hours before he/she can return to school. Please do not hesitate to keep
your child home longer if the complaints are not greatly improved after only 24 hours.
Runny Runny noses and coughs are frequent during the winter and the spring. If your child
Nose/Cough: coughs continuously, has thick yellow/green nasal or mucous drainage, or requires
frequent wiping of nasal mucous drainage, please keep him/her home. Should these
symptoms develop at school we will request that you take him/her home.
Irritability/ Excessive sleepiness, irritability, or unusual behaviors, especially in younger children
Excessive may be indicative of the onset of illness. Children are uncomfortable, unhappy, and do
Sleepiness: not benefit from the classroom at these times.
Procedure for Students Returning to School after Significant Illness, Injury or Surgery:
See COVID-19 Protocols for details pertaining to return to school documentation
To maintain the health and safety of our students, it is essential that we receive current information on a child who is
returning to school after a period of absence.
If a student is absent for three or more consecutive days, is hospitalized, has a need to go to the Emergency Room,
or has a change in their functional status (i.e. change in weight bearing status, functional restriction, etc.) due to
illness or injury, please provide the school nurse with discharge paperwork or documentation from the physician
noting any change in medications or restrictions including start date, date of return to school, or changes in activities.
For injuries, please provide specific instructions from the physician regarding any restrictions or accommodations
related to physical activity, therapy and/or equipment use which should be implemented at the Gengras Center. The
physician should also include a specific time frame for the restrictions. Without this note the student may not be able
to participate in his/her regularly scheduled activities, including therapies.
We recommend in all such situations that a parent call the school nurse at 860-231-5277 prior to the student returning.
All documentation can be sent in with the student or faxed to the Gengras Center at 860-231-6795 prior to his/her
return.
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