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Policies, Procedures & Annual Notifications

View the District’s full Policy Manual on BoardDocs®

Absences from School

According to the School Law of the State of New York, all children between the ages of 6 and the completion of the school year in which they turn 16 must be in attendance at school at all times during which the school is in session.

Learn what constitutes a legal absence versus an illegal absence from school.

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Attendance

There is a positive correlation between regular attendance at school and academic success. The business world demands that employees be at work daily and on time. Excessive absenteeism and/or lateness to work often results in the loss of jobs. Our school has an obligation to expect regular attendance and punctuality from our students in school and class. Students have a responsibility to come to school regularly and to be on time to school and to all their classes. Parents have a responsibility to see that their children meet these requirements.

View what constitutes a legal absence versus an illegal absence.

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Asbestos Management Plan

The Greater Johnstown School District submitted its Asbestos management Plan to the New York State Education Department in 1989. In accordance with the EPA Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1987 (40 CFR Part 763), this memo is intended to fulfill annual notification that management plans for this district are on file and can be viewed between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, please contact the GJSD Director of Facilities and Operations at (518) 762-4611.

Visit the Facilities page for more information.

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Child Abuse Hotline

If you suspect a child is being abused or maltreated (neglected), report it by calling 1-800-342-3720, a toll-free 24-hour hotline operated by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local police department. Information about reporting child abuse and maltreatment (neglect) is available online at the New York State Office of Children and Family Services Child Protective Services website: http://ocfs.ny.gov/main/cps

Cómo denunciar casos sospechosos de abuso y negligencia infantil

Si sospecha que un niño está siendo abusado o maltratado (abandonado), denúncielo llamando al 1-800-342-3720, una línea directa gratuita que funciona las 24 horas y operada por la Oficina de Servicios para Niños y Familias del Estado de Nueva York. Si cree que un niño está en peligro inmediato, llame al 911 o al departamento de policía local. La información sobre cómo denunciar el abuso y el maltrato (abandono) infantil está disponible en línea en http://ocfs.ny.gov/main/cps/ .

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Code of Conduct

The Board of Education of the Greater Johnstown School District is committed to providing a safe and orderly school environment where students may receive and District personnel may deliver quality educational services without disruption or interference.  Responsible behavior by students, teachers, administrators, other District personnel, parents and other visitors is essential to achieving this goal.

View the complete District Code of Conduct.

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Comprehensive Education Plan

The Greater Johnstown School district commits to:

  • deepening connections among students, staff and the community
  • helping students and adults build trusting relationships as the foundation for being more engaged with learning, so students have
    increased confidence towards graduating Johnstown High School

View the complete 2021-22 Comprehensive Education Plan.

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Comprehensive Improvement Plan

The District Comprehensive Improvement Plan details District priorities for 2022-23. They are:

  1. We commit to continue to deepen connections among students, staff and the community
  2. We continue to be committed to helping students and adults build trusting relationships as the foundation for being more engaged with learning, so students have increased confidence towards graduating from JJSHS
  3. We will continue to prioritize offering a multi-tiered support system that reflects what students’ need socially, emotionally and academically.

View the complete District Comprehensive Improvement Plan (DCIP).

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District-Wide School Safety Plan

Emergencies and violent incidents in school districts are critical issues that must be addressed in an expeditious and effective manner. Districts are required to develop a district-wide school safety plan designed to prevent or minimize the effects of serious violent incidents and emergencies and to facilitate the coordination of the district with local and county resources in the event of such incidents or emergencies. The district-wide plan is responsive to the needs of all schools within the district and is consistent with the more detailed emergency response plans required at the school building level. Districts stand at risk from a wide variety of acts of violence, natural, and manmade disasters. To address these threats, the State of New York has enacted the Safe Schools Against Violence in Education (SAVE) law. Project Save is a comprehensive planning effort that addresses prevention, response, and recovery with respect to a variety of emergencies in each school district and its schools.

The Hamilton Fulton Montgomery BOCES, in coordination with the Greater Johnstown School District, supports the SAVE Legislation and intends to facilitate the planning process. The Superintendent of Schools encourages and advocates on-going district-wide cooperation and support of Project SAVE.

View the 2024-2025 District-Wide School Safety Plan.

Print a PDF version of the 2024-2025 District-Wide School Safety Plan.

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Dignity for All Students Act

New York State’s Dignity for All Students Act (“DASA”) was signed into law on September 13, 2010 and took effect on July 1, 2012. Per the New York State Department of Education, the act “seeks to provide the State’s public elementary and secondary school students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function.”

While the Johnstown School District has several policies in place prohibiting harassment and discrimination, the Board of Education has taken the additional step of adopting Policy #7553 – Dignity for All Students Act.

Beyond adopting a DASA policy, the Board of Education has also appointed Dignity Act Coordinators in each of our school buildings. These are individuals who have received special training in methods to respond to human relations in the areas of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender and sex.

The Johnstown School District’s duly appointed Dignity Act Coordinators for the 2024-2025 school year are as follows:

If you are a student who is the target of harassment, hazing or bullying, or if you know of someone who is a target, you are encouraged to speak with a teacher, principal or dignity act coordinator.

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Education Law 2-d

Data Security and Privacy Policy

Parents Bill of Rights for Data Privacy and Security

The Greater Johnstown School District is committed to protecting the privacy and security of student data and teacher and principal data. In accordance with New York Education Law Section 2-d and the implementing regulations, the District  informs the school community of the following:

  1. A student’s personally identifiable information cannot be sold or released for any commercial purposes.
  2. Parents have the right to inspect and review the complete contents of their child’s education record.
  3. State and federal laws, such as NYS Education Law Section 2-d and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, protect the confidentiality of personally identifiable information, and safeguards associated with industry standards and best practices, including but not limited to, encryption, firewalls, and password protection, must be in place when data is stored or transferred.
  4. A complete list of all student data elements collected by New York State is available for public review at the NYS Education Law Section 2-d Inventory of Data Elements website, and by writing to:
    Chief Privacy Officer
    New York State Education Department
    89 Washington Avenue
    Albany, New York 12234
  5. Parents have the right to have complaints about possible breaches and unauthorized disclosures of student data addressed.
    • Complaints may be submitted to Data Protection Officer Alicia Koster at DPO@johnstownschools.org or (518) 762-4611.
    • Complaints may be submitted to NYSED by mail to:
      Chief Privacy Officer
      New York State Education Department
      89 Washington Avenue
      Albany, New York 12234
      Or by email to privacy@nysed.gov
      Or by telephone at (518) 474-0937.
  6. Parents have the right to be notified in accordance with applicable laws and regulations if a breach or unauthorized release of their student’s personally identifiable information occurs.
  7. Educational agency workers that handle personally identifiable information will receive training on applicable state and federal laws, the educational agency’s policies, and safeguards associated with industry standards and best practices that protect personally identifiable information.
  8. Education agency contracts with vendors that receive personally identifiable information will address statutory and regulatory data privacy and security requirements.

Supplemental Information Regarding Third-Party Contractors

In the course of complying with its obligations under the law and providing educational services to District residents, the Greater Johnstown School District has entered into agreements with certain third-party contractors. Pursuant to such agreements, third-party contractors may have access to “student data” and/or “teacher or principal data,” as those terms are defined by law and regulation.

Each contract or other written agreement that the District enters into with a third party contractor where the third party contractor receives student data or teacher or principal from the district, the following supplemental information will be included with this bill of rights:

  1. The exclusive purposes for which the student data or teacher or principal data will be used by the third party contractor, as defined in the contract;
  2. How the third party contractor will ensure that the subcontractors, or other authorized persons or entities to whom the third party contractor will disclose the student data or teacher or principal data, if any, will abide by all applicable data protection and security requirements, including but not limited to those outlined in applicable laws and regulations (e.g., FERPA, Education Law Section 2-d);
  3. The duration of the contract, including the contract’s expiration date, and a description of what will happen to the student data or teacher or principal data upon expiration of the contract or other written agreement (e.g., whether, when, and in what format it will be returned to the District, and/or whether, when, and how the data will be destroyed);
  4. If and how a parent, student, eligible student, teacher or principal may challenge the accuracy of the student data or teacher or principal data that is collected; and
  5. Where the student data or teacher or principal data will be stored, described in a manner as to protect data security, and the security protections taken to ensure the data will be protected and data privacy and security risks mitigated; and
  6. Address how the data will be protected using encryption while in motion and at rest.

Approved Third Party Software

Access approved software information.

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Elementary Family Handbook

We at the Johnstown elementary schools, believe that the faculty and staff must work together with students and parents to ensure a safe school community. The best learning environment is provided when all individuals involved in a child’s learning work together cooperatively.

View the Elementary Family Handbook and access a printable Signature of Understanding page.

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ESSA Funded Programs

Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), all parents/guardians have the right to view funding transparency documents.

View all fiscal transparency documents.

View NYSED Fact Sheets about ESSA.

Complaint Procedures

New York State Education Department has created a process for resolving complaints alleging that a local educational agency (LEA), grantee or NYSED has violated a law, rule, or regulation in the administration of any “covered Federal program” under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

These procedures offer parents and other stakeholders a process to file complaints and allow for the timely resolution of such complaints. A complainant may include any of the following: parents, public agencies, and other individuals or organizations.

Learn more about ESSA complaint procedures and how to file a complaint.

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Extra-Curricular Code

The extra-curricular program is designed to develop healthy and wholesome living habits and to allow students an opportunity to demonstrate their special extra-curricular interests and skills.  The privilege of participation is granted with the understanding that students accept the necessary responsibilities.

Students in all extra-curricular activities will be differentiated by competitive versus non-competitive participants.  These activities are listed on the Informed Consent Agreement document.  The penalties for violations of the extra-curricular code will be determined by the activity.

View the complete Extra-Curricular Code.

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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides certain rights for parents regarding their children’s education records. When a student reaches 18 years of age or attends an institution of postsecondary education at any age, the student becomes an “eligible student,” and all rights under FERPA transfer from the parent to the student. These rights are:

  1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records, by sending a written request to the District’s Records Management Officer. Arrangements will be made to provide access to such records within 45 days after the request has been received. Parents or eligible students may obtain a copy of any record by submitting a written request that specifically identifies the record they want copied. The copies will be made within a reasonable time after your request is received; you may be charged .25 cents per page for the copies.
  2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the District to amend a record should write to the District’s Records Management Officer, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
  3. The right to privacy of personally identifiable information in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. It is the district’s policy to disclose personally identifiable information from student records, without consent, to school district officials with legitimate educational interests (i.e., to fulfill professional responsibilities) and, upon request, to another school district or institution in which a student seeks enrollment. School officials include administrators, supervisors, instructors and support staff employed by the district; Board of Education members; a person or company (e.g., attorney, auditor or therapist) with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task; or a parent or student serving on an official committee or assisting another school official in performing duties.
  4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if you believe the District has not complied with FERPA requirements. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
    U.S. Department of Education
    Student Privacy Policy Office
    400 Maryland Ave. SW
    Washington, DC 20202-8520

Additional information regarding FERPA may be found at the U.S. Department of Education’s Protecting Student Privacy website.

Please also refer to the following Greater Johnstown School District policies:

Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)

The PPRA applies to the programs and activities of a state educational agency (SEA), local educational agency (LEA), or other recipient of funds under any program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. (20 U.S.C. § 1232h, 34 CFR Part 98)

Learn more about federal laws that protect student data on the NYSED website.

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Freedom of Information Law (FOIL Requests)

Access to District records is consistent with the rules and regulations established by the New York State Committee on Open Government and will comply with all the requirements of the New York State Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).

Make a request for district records by visiting our Forms page.

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Home Instruction (Home Schooling)

Home instruction of students residing within the boundaries of the Greater Johnstown School District is overseen by our Office of Pupil Services and Special Education. Learn more about Home Instruction within the Greater Johnstown School District.

Local Assistance Plans (JHS & Knox)

View the Knox Local Assistance Plan.

Notice of Non-Discrimination/Title IX

Applicants for admission and employment, students, parents, employees, sources of referral of applicants for admission and employment, and all unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with the Greater Johnstown School District are hereby notified that this District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities.

Any person having inquiries concerning the Greater Johnstown School District’s compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), The Age Discrimination Act, or Section 504 is directed to contact the following individuals, who have been designated by the Greater Johnstown School District to coordinate the District’s efforts to comply with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, the ADA, The Age Discrimination Act, and Section 504:

Alicia Koster, Assistant Superintendent
(518) 762-4611

Scott Hale, Johnstown High School Principal
(518) 762-4661

The following non-discrimination policies have been adopted by the district:

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Pesticide Notification

Under state law, the Greater Johnstown School District is required to notify you that pesticide products may be used in school buildings throughout the year. Parents, guardians and staff may request 48-hour advance written notification, including the date and place where the pesticide will be used, the name of the pesticide and its EPA registration number and who to contact for more information. To be placed on the list, call the GJSD Director of Facilities and Operations at (518) 762-4611.

Visit the Facilities page for more information.

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Professional Learning Plan

The goal of the Professional Learning Program is to enhance the quality of teaching and student learning.

Professional learning can be thought of as a complex process that results in long term, positive change in schools. Such efforts include sharing of current research, enhancing instructional strategies, modification of classroom assessments, strengthening the leadership characteristics of individuals, and promoting individual growth and development. Professional learning experiences that encourage collegiality, collaboration, discovery, and problem solving enhance the individual strengths of the staff as well as the organization as a whole. The focus of the Professional Learning Program is the individual educator, working with other educators and stakeholders, to provide the best learning opportunities/environment for students. The process includes planning, risk taking, trial and error, reflection, modification, and a continuous commitment to excellence. An ongoing professional Development Learning is
results-driven and directly linked to student performance.

View the Greater Johnstown School District Professional Learning Plan 2021-2024.

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Release of Student Directory Information

Directory information is information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.

View the Board Policy #7242 Student Directory Information.

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Sexual Harassment Prevention

The District will provide a sexual harassment prevention training program to all employees on an annual basis. The training will be interactive and will include:

  1. An explanation of sexual harassment consistent with guidance issued by the Department of Labor in consultation with the Division of Human Rights;
  2. Examples of conduct that would constitute unlawful sexual harassment;
  3. Information concerning the federal and state statutory provisions concerning sexual harassment and remedies available to victims of sexual harassment;
  4. Information concerning employees’ rights of redress and all available forums for adjudicating complaints; and
  5. Information addressing conduct by supervisors and any additional responsibilities for such supervisors.

View the Board Policy 6121 Sexual Harassment in the Workplace.

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School Based Intervention Team (SBIT)

Each school building has a School-Based Intervention Team (SBIT). The purpose of this team is to ensure that a child’s academic, behavioral, attendance and/or health needs are being met in school, so s/he has a successful school experience. The team is made up of various teachers and staff. This may include the building principal, school counselor, school psychologist, a special education teacher, regular education teachers, a speech therapist, an academic intervention services provider, and school nurse.

SBIT is a general education service. SBIT is not a special education service.

Learn more about the SBIT (School Based Intervention Team).

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Social, Emotional and Academic Learning (SEAL Team)

The Greater Johnstown School District prioritizes students’ mental health with investments in SEAL Team resources. Students in need can receive personalized assistance from building psychologists, social workers, behavioral specialists, and counselors.

Learn more about the SEAL Team and how it provides personalized assistance to students in need.

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Smart Schools Investment Plan

The Greater Johnstown School District was allocated $1,755,889 as part of the Smart Schools Bond Act. Based on the Technology Plan adopted by the District the intentions are to utilize the funds available to further enhance teaching and learning in the classroom using technology.

View the complete Smart Schools Bond Act Investment Plan.

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Technology Plan

The Greater Johnstown School District will provide and utilize technology to propel instruction and learning, equitable access to all individuals, and apply a problem solving mindset to engage in the responsible use of technology. View the current Instructional Technology Plan.

Workplace Violence Prevention

Preventing Workplace Violence in Public Schools

To help prevent workplace violence in public schools, on September 6, 2023, the Governor signed legislation (S1746/A1120) amending the Workplace Violence Prevention Law (Section 27-b of Labor Law), extending coverage to elementary and secondary public education that was previously exempted. This was done by removing the exemption from the definition of “employer” in the law. The amendment of 12 NYCRR Part 800.6 has also been immediately authorized by the legislation. These changes will be effective 120 days (January 4, 2024) after becoming law.

As of January 4, 2024, covered public employers include public school districts, New York City public schools, Boards of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES), and County Vocational Education and Extension Boards. Based on guidance in the Workplace Violence Prevention Regulations, please refer to the timeline below regarding implementation deadlines:

(1) The Employer’s Policy Statement must be completed within 30 days of the law going into effect (February 3, 2024)

(2) The workplace risk evaluation and determination must be completed within 60 days of the law going into effect (March 4, 2024).

(3) The workplace violence prevention program must be completed within 75 days of the law going into effect (March 19, 2024).

(4) Employers must be in full compliance with the regulations within 120 days of the law going into effect (May 3, 2024).

For more information, please visit the Workplace Violence Prevention page NY state’s Department of Labor website.

Workplace Violence Prevention Resources

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About Us Links

District Contact

1 Sir Bills Circle, Suite 101
Johnstown, NY 12095
Phone: (518) 762-4611
Fax: (518) 762-6379

Dr. William Crankshaw
Superintendent

Suzanne Hall
Secretary to the Superintendent
Phone: (518) 762-4611, ext. 3104

Please Note

If you cannot access documents on this page, please call (518) 762-4611, or email Communications to obtain the document in an alternative format.

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