Athletics and Activities Rich Drummond, Director

Phone: 874-8257 Joyce DiFillipo, Secretary

Attendance Assistant Principals

College Admissions/Financial Aid Guidance Counselors

Community Referrals Guidance Counselors/Social Workers

Rules and Consequences Principal/Assistant Principals

Dismissal from School Main Office

ESOL Marge Sampson, ESOL Coordinator

Honor Roll Liz Bryant, Guidance Secretary

Library Susie Wright, Librarian

Lockers Main Office Secretary

Make Up Work Guidance Secretary

Portland Mentoring Alliance Jane Ellis, Coordinator

Phone: 756-8437

Nurse/Clinic Maryellen O'Toole, School Nurse

Progress Reports Classroom Teacher/Guidance

Special Education Learning Strategist

Student Records/Transcripts Timi Carter, Registrar

Transportation Kevin Mallory, Coordinator

Phone: 874-8240

At Portland High School, our focus is on learning and we support the mission of the Portland Public Schools, "assuring that all students are learning for their future."

The mission of Portland High School is to provide the skills for

Life-long-learning for all students; to offer to all students

Achievement of the district learning results by all students; to honor the

Diversity of learners and learning styles of all students; and to strive for

Success in learning throughout life by all students.

Portland High School was first established in 1821 in an Exchange Street building. In those early days, the English High School for Boys was housed in several different buildings. In 1850 a High School for Girls was built on Chestnut Street behind the present Portland High School.

In 1863 the school moved to its present location on Cumberland Avenue. That building is now the middle wing of today’s school. The most memorable feature of that Portland High was a brick wall which ran through the middle of the building from the basement to the roof. It served to separate the girls from the boys. Eventually the wall was removed, but the remnants of it can still be seen in the basement. Portland High School was the third public high school to be established in the United States, and today remains as the second oldest continuing high school in existence.

Portland High School was a pioneer in secondary education in the nation and has long been a leader in our state. Thomas B. Reed, who was the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives; Admiral Robert E. Peary, who discovered the North Pole; and John Ford, who was a giant among movie directors, are only a few of the notable graduates.

The new addition to the school was opened in 1989. It includes a new athletic facility, a new cafeteria, several new classrooms, and the finest theater/auditorium in the city.

We hope that this year will be a happy and rewarding experience.

We are proud of the rich heritage and excellent reputation Portland High School has maintained over the years. Our community of learners reflects the core values of our school system – life-long learning, equity, achievement, diversity and success.

We encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities provided to you and expect that you will help in the endeavor to maintain our fine reputation.

P.H.S. Faculty and Staff

The Portland School Committee has established that each student must earn forty-one credits to participate in graduation exercises and receive a high school diploma. The forty-one credits are earned over a four-year period, barring extenuating circumstances (e.g. illness, academic failure). (All course credits and requirements must be completed in order for students to participate in senior farewell and graduation exercises.) Students earn two credits for completion of a year-long course and one credit for completion of a semester course.

Students select courses in consultation with their parents/guardian, teachers, and guidance counselors. Required course credits are as follows:

4 years of English 8 credits

3 years of Social Studies 6 credits

3 years of Mathematics 6 credits

3 years of Science 6 credits

1 semester of Health 1 credit

1 year of Physical Education 2 credits

1 year of Fine Arts 2 credits

Elective courses 10 credits

Total for Graduation 41 credits

Student grade status is based on earned credits. Students must complete at least nine credits to earn sophomore status. At least eighteen credits must be earned for junior status and a minimum of twenty-seven credits to earn senior status. When taking a required course students must pass the course and receive the credit.

In order to be enrolled as a full-time student at Portland High School, a student must carry and attend a minimum of five academic courses each semester.

Students enrolled at P.H.S. may also take courses at P.A.T.H.S. and earn credit toward graduation. Transportation is provided. Interested students must see their guidance counselor to arrange a visit then complete an application. Specific questions about programs offered can be answered by calling the guidance office at P.A.T.H.S. (874-8165).

Students may take outside courses and earn up to 4.0 credits toward graduation. Some examples include courses taken through Early Studies at USM, classes at SMCC and some summer programs. Please see your guidance counselor for the required form prior to enrolling in an outside course.

Warning notices will be mailed to parents/guardians at the midpoint of each marking period to indicate academic/attendance deficiencies. Parents/guardians may be required to sign the reports and return them to the teacher. Progress notices may be mailed at any time to indicate achievements. Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact teachers, counselors, or an administrator with questions or concerns they may have about a student’s performance or evaluation.

Report cards are distributed to students after the close of the first three quarter. Grades given in the Portland Public Schools are as follows:

A+ 99-100

A 95-98

A- 93-94

B+ 91-92

B 87-90

B- 85-86

C+ 83-84

C 80-82

C- 78-79

D+ 76-77

D 72-75

D- 70-71

F Below 70

1 Excellent

2 Satisfactory

1. Unsatisfactory

Students may withdraw from a class ONLY if their remaining schedule includes at least 5 courses (labs and classroom/library/office aide do not count as a class). After the Add/Drop period (first 6 days of each semester), students must meet with their guidance counselor and complete a "Student Request for Schedule Change" form.

During the first eight weeks of school, changes made to any year-long class will not be recorded on the transcript (four weeks for a semester class).

If a student drops a year-long class after the first quarter (or a semester course after 4 weeks), a WP (Withdrawn Passing) or WF (Withdrawn Failing) will be recorded on the student transcript.

If a student withdraws during the last 4 weeks of a class, a W and the current grade will appear on the transcript and the grade will be counted in the GPA.

Mid-year and final exams are administered each year during special examination schedules. These exams count up to twenty percent of the semester grade. It is imperative that parents/guardians and students make appropriate plans to ensure attendance during the exam days.

Teachers are available for help before and/or after school by appointment.

All students who carry five or more major subjects and earn no grade below 85 are eligible for the honor roll. HIGH HONORS are awarded for all A’s; HONORS for A’s and B’s in all subjects.

Scholastic honors will be awarded at the end of each quarter. The guidance office compiles the honor roll, which is sent to the local newspaper. Those students with an Incomplete ("I") who otherwise meet the above criteria, must resolve the I prior to the honor roll being sent to the newspaper and in order to have their names published.

Rank in class is determined by calculating the average of all courses taken by a student in grades nine through twelve. This average is computed at the end of sixth and seventh semesters for the purpose of determining class standing. Portland High School uses a system of weighted grades in which a grade in more difficult courses (e.g. advanced placement or honors) is rated higher than the same grade in a less challenging course.

Students graduating early are not eligible to be valedictorian or salutatorian but may be eligible for Brown medals and scholarships. Only students who have been enrolled and attending PHS for two consecutive years are eligible for these designations.

Students who earn a failing grade (below 70) in a year-long course may make up the course during summer school. Enrollment forms are available in the Student Services Office. Course fees are the responsibility of the student, parent or guardian; financial aid is not available for summer school.

All textbooks are loaned to students for use during the school year. It is encouraged that textbooks are covered, kept clean and handled carefully. Students are responsible for the books and must pay for all lost or damaged textbooks.

Any student who turns 20 years old prior to July 1^st may not attend Portland High School or participate in graduation exercises. Students who could graduate with one additional year, who have good attendance and behavior records may apply for a waiver from the Superintendent. Other students may complete their course work at Adult Education, USM, SMCC or through other academic programs. Upon completion of all graduation requirements, students may receive a Portland High School diploma if they had 25 or more credits earned prior to leaving P.H.S. If they had less than 25 credits, they will receive a diploma from the program they entered after P.H.S.

Regular and punctual school and class attendance is essential for successful academic achievement in school. Responsibility for this attendance rests with students and their parents. Portland High School will cooperate with parents to ensure good student attendance. A computerized system will call home to notify the parent/guardian when their child has been absent from class.

Students are required to attend school daily. According to Maine law, any adult serving as parent/guardian for a student of compulsory school age (ages seven to seventeen) must ensure that the student attends school. If a student must be absent, parents/guardians are to telephone the school that day to report the reason for the absence (874-8250). In addition, on the day a student returns to school from an absence, s/he must bring a note from a parent/guardian that explains the absence to the main office.

Students are expected to be in school and follow their assigned schedule every day. Parents/guardians and students should be fully aware that in most cases, what goes on in the classroom cannot be duplicated and constitutes a valid and crucial part of course work.

• Students absent more than (9) days from a year-long course/more than (4) days from a semester course may pass but will not receive credit for that course.

• Administrators shall have the right to use discretion in cases of long-term illness, accident or unusual circumstances. To apply for an attendance policy waiver, the student must pick up a form in the Assistant Principals’ office. All deadlines must be met; all signatures must be complete.

• Students absent from a class for 40 minutes or more will be counted absent for that day.

Portland School Committee policy limits excused absences to personal illness, an appointment with a health professional that must be made during the school day, observance of a religious holiday required during the school day, a family emergency, school suspension or a planned absence for a pre-approved personal or educational purpose. Attendance requirements may be waived following administrative review in cases of accident, long-term illness or other circumstances, including family emergencies. If a student plans to be absent for educational or personal purposes, he/she must make arrangements with administrators and teachers in advance.

Students will be expected to arrange for and complete make-up work for excused absences. Teachers are authorized to establish deadlines for submission of make-up work and failure to meet such deadline may result in the loss of credit for the assignment.

Students have no make-up privileges for unexcused absences or truancy.

No student is permitted to leave school during the school day without permission of a parent/guardian and either the principal, assistant principal, school nurse or office secretary. Students must take their parent/guardian’s request for dismissal to the main office for approval at the beginning of the school day. The dismissal will be noted on the absence list and the student must sign out of the main office at the time of dismissal.

If a student becomes ill during the school day, s/he must report to the school nurse or, if the nurse is not available, to the assistant principal’s office. Students who are ill may not leave the building until an administrator, secretary or school nurse contacts a parent/guardian for permission. Students leaving school without permission will be subject to discipline for class cuts.

School policy prohibits anyone from selling, supplying, giving or attempting to sell any person drugs, alcohol, "look-alike" drugs or drug paraphernalia. Students are prohibited from using or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Included in this policy are inhaled substances such as glue, aerosol paint or any other chemical substance. In addition, prescription medication is not to be taken without authorization of a family doctor and/or the school nurse.

Students exhibiting behaviors, which may indicate drug or alcohol possession or use, will be reported to the administration and excluded from class, instructional areas, or programs in progress. The student’s parent or guardian will be notified immediately. Any necessary medical attention will be at the parent/guardian expense. If the student appears to be dangerous to others, Police Department assistance may be requested.

Should the student not need medical attention and not present an imminent danger to herself/himself or others, the student will be released from school in the custody of her/his parent or guardian.

Students are not permitted in the corridors during class periods unless they are accompanied by a teacher or have a corridor pass issued by an authorized staff member.

Any type of attire which attracts undue attention to the wearer and thus causes disturbance in the school is not acceptable. Students who are not appropriately dressed may be sent home to make necessary changes in their attire. Students are not to wear attire that advertises or promotes drug or alcohol products or is sexually explicit.

Harassment is conduct or speech which is unwelcome, intimidating, derogatory, hostile and/or offensive; and has the purpose, or effect, of unreasonably interfering with a student’s ability to learn or a staff member’s ability to work. Harassment may be student-to-student, staff-to-student, student-to-staff, staff-to-staff. Harassment may be offensive to a person for a variety of reasons, including his or her gender, race, ethnic background, religion, age, sexual orientation, ability or disability.

Sexual harassment is harassment which is of a sexual nature which can include a range of behaviors including sexual insults and name-calling, off color jokes, intimidation by words or actions, offensive touching, and pressure for sexual activity.

Non-consensual touching, including physical fighting will be construed as assault and battery. Students who are harassed should report such occurrence to an administrator immediately. Disciplinary action for acts of harassment and/or fighting may include suspension or expulsion.

It is against the law for individuals under the age of eighteen to possess or use tobacco products. There is to be no smoking or use of any tobacco products in the school building or on the school grounds, including all entrances and outside stairs.

Cell phones/electronic devices are to be turned off and out of sight while in the classroom. Violations will result in the confiscation of the device.

Weapons are defined as any instrument or device that has the intended use of harming oneself or others. Any student found to be bringing such an object to school may face an expulsion hearing.

Students will be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion for the following infractions:

• Fighting
• Cheating
• Providing false information to a school employee
• Theft
• Forgery
• Damaging school property or personal property

• Defying the authority of school department employees

• Using or possessing any weapon that might be injurious to person or property or that might constitute a "look-alike" article or weapon.

• Setting off false fire alarms or making a bomb threat

• Forming or participating in a secret society

• Wearing bandanas or gang affiliated clothing

• Hazing

• Violating any public criminal or civil laws
• Profanity or disrespectful language
• Any other behavior which disrupts the educational process/infringes on the safety of self or others

Lockers and desks remain school property for use by individual students and may be subject to periodic general searches by school officials. School officials also may search students’ wallets, purses, and pockets (emptied by the student), and automobiles when they have a reasonable suspicion that the search will reveal evidence that the student has violated school policies or rules.

If it is necessary for a teacher to send a student out of class, the student must sign in at the Main Office and wait to see one of the Assistant Principals. Failure to report promptly will result in further consequences. After consulting with the student and teacher, the Assistant Principal will take whatever action s/he deems necessary.

Discipline records are maintained in the main office, and parents are notified in all cases of major infractions.

Taking someone else’s work as if it were your own idea is cheating. Consequences for this range from a loss of credit for the assignment to suspension or expulsion.

Students who violate any of the rules and policies in this handbook may be subject to detention at the discretion of a teacher, administrator, or administrative designee. These violations include, but are not limited to, unexcused tardiness and class cuts. For teachers’ detentions the length of time may vary. Office detentions are 45 minutes. Typically, detention means forty-five minutes of quiet study in a designated room. Students assigned detention should bring homework or other academic activities to work on during the allotted time. A student who fails to serve detention or who disrupts a detention session will be subject to suspension. If a student cuts an assigned detention, s/he will be suspended for one day.

Serious policy violations may result in suspension from attending school and all school sponsored activities for up to ten days.

More serious infractions may result in expulsion from school, at the discretion of the Superintendent, for up to one year.

The Portland Public Schools are committed to providing equal educational opportunity for all students, regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, or disability. This policy applies to all educational facilities, programs, and activities; access to course enrollment; access to and use of comparable school facilities; counseling and guidance programs and activities; student rules and regulations, student services, benefits, scholarships (where applicable), and employment assistance; and any school-sponsored extra-curricular activities.

There are four counselors and two secretaries assigned to the Portland High School Student Services Department. They are available for counseling students, parents, and teachers on matters affecting a student’s academic and social progress, storing and maintaining cumulative folders and permanent records, registering and placing new students, publicizing occupational information, organizing standardized tests, issuing transcripts to other schools, and advising parents and students on private school and college entrance. Appointments can be made with a counselor through a guidance secretary.

The nurse is available on a regular schedule to assist students with their health needs and to answer health-related questions.

Portland Public Health Department operates a clinic for students. To be seen at the clinic the student must have:

• signed parental permission

• scheduled appointment made by P.H.S. school nurse

The Student Health Center run by the City of Portland is located in the basement of P.H.S. Services include treatment of acute health conditions i.e. sore throat, rash, management of chronic conditions (asthma, acne) testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, birth control including annual exams, physical exams, sports physicals and immunizations.

Physicians, Nurse Practitioner and Clinic Assistant are on staff. All students are eligible with a signed enrollment form. Appointments must be made through the school nurse.

Phone number is: 756-8418 or 874-8988

Maine law requires all students to receive the following immunizations; four polio (one after the first birthday), five DPT (diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus) or DT, two German measles/rubella, mumps, and measles. Starting in the fall of 2004 all grade 9 students must provide documentation of chicken pox disease (varicella) or immunization from their health care provider. Students may be exempted from this requirement due either to a physician’s statement that one or more of the immunizations would be medically inadvisable, or to a parent’s or guardian’s statement in writing that the family is opposed to immunization given its sincere religious, moral, or philosophical beliefs. However, both the superintendent and public health officials retain the right to exclude from school any student who has not been immunized and who poses a danger to the health of others (e.g. one who has contracted a communicable disease).

A speech therapist is available for students needing diagnosis or assistance with speech or language problems.

Social Workers counsel referred students, their families and coordinate services available in the school and community. Concerns addressed include academic, attendance, social and personal issues.

Ms. Kathy Randall

Students’ rights of confidentiality and protection from improper disclosure of their records are respected by the Portland Public Schools in accordance with the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and with Maine law. The guidance office has detailed information about the specific rights of students under these provisions.

The Portland Public Schools are not responsible for safeguarding student’s personal property including musical instruments, audio equipment, money, clothing, jewelry, skateboards, and collectibles. Students should refrain from bringing to school items of significant value which are unnecessary for instructional purposes.

Assemblies will be scheduled throughout the school year. Students are expected to follow these rules:

• Students should be on time.

• Students are to sit with their class in assigned seats. (no standing in seats)

• Students should be respectful, appreciative, and attentive to all

participants and speakers.

• Students must remain in assemblies until the program ends.

• No food or drinks are allowed in the Auditorium.

Portland High School students riding school department buses and Casco Bay Lines Ferries to and from school are expected to behave in an orderly fashion. Bus drivers or Casco Bay representatives will report any inappropriate behavior to the school administration for disciplinary action. Bus code of conduct forms must be signed by the parents prior to students riding the buses. Riding school department buses and the ferry is a privilege which may be revoked.

While in the cafeteria, students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects the rights of others. Students are responsible for removing their own trays and leaving a clean table and floor. Any student caught stealing food from the cafeteria will be subject to discipline including suspension and possible prosecution.

Students agree to not only follow the rules of the Policy, but also to report any misuse of the network. Use of the Internet must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of the Portland Public Schools.

Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for your education. PHS reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of Portland Public Schools and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials.

Any user who violates this Policy, shall at a minimum, have his or her access to the computer network and Internet terminated, which Portland Public Schools may refuse to reinstate for the remainder of the student’s enrollment in Portland Public Schools. A user violates this Policy by his or her own action or by failing to report any violations by other users that come to the attention of the user. Further, a user violates this Policy if he or she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and Internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. Portland Public Schools may also take other disciplinary action in such circumstances

Many preventative and crisis response measures have been put in place in our school system to provide maximum emotional and physical safety for all of our students. Portland High School has a Crisis Response Plan, following guidelines established through a joint effort of Portland’s School and Police Departments. A "lockdown" plan requires staff and student to seek safety in the nearest classroom and remain in the school. An off-site evacuation plan has students and staff exit the building. Plans are posted in all classrooms and practice drills are conducted during the school year.

Fire drills are required by law. Upon the first alarm, all students and staff must vacate the building in a quiet and orderly fashion. Directions for evacuation are posted in each room and office. No one may enter the building until an administrator directs them to do so. Setting off a false alarm is a violation of federal and state laws and will be reported to those agencies as well as school officials for disciplinary action.

All fund raising projects are to be reviewed and approved by the administration and/or co-curricular activities director.

The Portland High School Library is open between 7:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. each school day. During school hours, students must have a pass from a study hall teacher or a classroom teacher in order to use the library. The librarian can assist in the selection of both print and non-print materials. A computer lab is also available for electronic research. Books are loaned for a three-week period. A fine of five cents will be charged for each overdue school day the book is not returned.

Lockers are available to students and will be assigned by teachers. Students must use only their assigned locker. Only locks provided by the school may be used, and they must be obtained through the main office. A $5.00 deposit is required to rent a lock (deposit is refundable upon discharge or graduation). All other locks will be removed.

Sixty parking spots near the high school are reserved for student use. Interested students must complete an application, available in the Main Office. Seniors are given first priority; if more than sixty students apply, a lottery will be used to determine who receives a parking sticker.

The school does not display posters for profit-making organizations. Requests to display posters or other printed material on the school walls or bulletin boards must be made through the principal’s office.

In the event of emergency or weather-related school delay, cancellation, or early dismissal, local radio and television stations will make announcements beginning at approximately 6:00 a.m.

Portland High School offers a mini-course in sexuality education to all freshmen students. The course lasts for approximately eight lessons and will review previous sexuality education classes then discuss such topics as dating, love and sexuality, teen pregnancy, birth control, abstinence, and acquaintance rape prevention. Parent permission is required, and a preview is presented to the parents prior to the classes.

Visitors to P.H.S. must sign in at the Main Office. Students who are shadowing must get prior approval from the guidance office. All visitors must comply with the P.H.S. Code of Conduct.

Any student under the age of sixteen must obtain a work permit prior to employment. Paperwork for this is administered in the Student Services Office.

All students who wish to participate in interscholastic athletics and activities must adhere to the eligibility policy. This includes:

• All athletic teams.

• Theatrical groups, math, music and clubs when competing under MPA rules.

• Class officers, Executive Board, and Student Council.

• Any other activity not listed but determined so by the School Committee and Administration.

• Eligibility for the upcoming quarter is based on the grades of the previous quarter (not semester) for each student.

• Incomplete grades may be made up during the first two weeks of the subsequent quarter. A student is ineligible until the work is made up.

• Students must pass 4 subjects required for graduation. Elective courses cannot be substituted.

• A student who does not meet the above criteria will be ineligible for a period of time as follows: a) for the first and second quarter the student is ineligible for 4 weeks, beginning on the 1^st day of preseason practice. For the third and fourth quarter, a student is ineligible for 2 weeks, beginning on the day grades are posted.

• An ineligible student may only practice during the probation period and may not participate in any games, scrimmages, exhibitions, productions, etc. S/he may travel and sit with the team but cannot be in uniform.

• On the Friday ending the probation period, a student may regain full eligibility only if he meets the academic requirements above. If not s/he is dropped from the group or team.

Academic Decathlon Advisor: Mrs. Pendleton

The United States Academic Decathlon is a nation-wide contest of academic skill. Each team consists of 3 "A" students, 3 "B" students and 3 "C" students. The Academic Decathlon prepares for competition which takes place in the spring at the University of New England. There are ten areas of study and/or performance: Economics, Science, Mathematics, Fine Arts, Social Science, Language & Literature, Speech, Essay, Personal Interview and the Super Quiz Topic of the year. Each team member studies as an individual and then as the competition approaches, the team meets after school to take practice tests and to prepare for the oral parts of the competition.

Anatomy of Leadership Advisor: Maryann Pendleton & David Smith

Asian Student Association Advisor: Ms. Phillips

The Asian Student Association is dedicated to building Asian awareness through cultural activities within the school and community. Members are usually of Asian descent but all who are interested are welcome. ASA meets twice each month in Room G02.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters Advisor:

Students in this club form one-on-one mentoring relationships with elementary school children. Weekly activities include arts and crafts, sports, snacks, games and field trips and fun. Students commit two hours on Thursday afternoons and attend monthly meetings to plan upcoming events. Those interested in becoming a Big Brother/Big Sister must complete an application.

Civil Rights Advisors:

All classes at Portland High School hold annual elections for officers and Student Council members. Officers are responsible for organization and coordination of class activities and events. A committee of the Student Council runs elections. Sophomore, junior and senior elections are held in the spring. Freshman elections will be held at the end of the first semester of the freshman year

Drama Advisor: Mr. David Smith

The Drama Club produces one full-length play in the fall and several one-act plays during the winter in conjunction with the state-wide festival. In the spring, club members provide technical support for the Shakespeare Club's production and work on other theatrical projects. Drama club meets most Thursdays after school. All actors and "techies" are welcome!

French Club Advisor: Ms. Katherine Wright

French Club is open to both French students and native speakers. The club participates in National Foreign Language Week and organizes an annual school-wide "Crepe Day". The money raised in this event goes toward a scholarship to a graduating French student. Outings to local French movies or other activities can be arranged. French Club meets Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m. in Room 2012 with some afternoon activities.

Freshmen Leadership Advisor: TBA

The goal of Freshmen Leadership is to educate the students about their role in student government and to begin the fundraising that will lead to successful junior and senior proms.

Future Business Leaders of America Advisor: Ms. Burek

Club members meet every other Friday in Room 233 at 7:30 a.m. The goals of FBLA are: to promote competent, aggressive business leadership; understand American business enterprise; establish career goals; encourage scholarship; promote sound financial management; develop character and self-confidence; facilitate transition from school to work.

Gay-Straight Alliance Advisor: TBA

The Gay-Straight Alliance works to maintain a safe and comfortable environment within our school. Club activities promote tolerance and respect for everyone regardless of sexual orientation or gender identification. Meetings take place Thursdays after school in room 108.

International Club Co-Advisors: Ms. Braceras and Ms. Wise

The International Club is open to all students and has about fifty active members. The mission is to preserve, celebrate and educate others about the many cultures at P.H.S. Meetings are Tuesdays after school in Room 331.

Key Club Advisor: Mrs. Hanifi

This club is devoted to community service and is one of the largest clubs at P.H.S. Students meet in the Auditorium every Thursday morning at 7:30.

Literary Magazine - Racquet Advisors: Ms. Whitney

This annual publication is a venue for student essays, poetry, short stories, artwork and photography. Students solicit, choose, edit and layout creative work. The magazine comes out in May. Racquet staff meets Tuesdays in the library.

Math Team Advisors: Ms. Blais and Ms. Solomon

The Math Team is open to all students who desire to enrich and broaden their experience in mathematical problem solving. The Freshman Math Team has three meets a year. The Pi-Cone South Math League (for all grade years) has five meets a year (in October, November, December, February and March) plus the State Math Meet in April. Practice times will be arranged in the fall. Come join the "mathletes" at P.H.S. and discover that math team is fun!

Mentoring Alliance Co-Advisors: Ms. Ellis

Since 1992, this mentoring program has provided adults and students at PHS a unique opportunity to share their lives, experiences and talents. Volunteers from area businesses and community are matched one to one with a PHS student.

Mock Trial Advisor: Mrs. Olafsen

The Maine State Mock Trial Competition is sponsored by the Maine State Bar Association and coordinated by the University of Maine School of Law. About 28 high schools participate in the competition which is held in real courtrooms in front of real judges. The students are given trial materials (usually modeled after a real trial) which include witness statements, police reports, medical reports, exhibits, applicable law, and the Rules of Evidence in September. Students then meet to put together their case. Scrimmages with other schools are held in October, with the competition starting in November. The Mock Trial Team meets Tues, Wed., and Thurs. from 2:15 - 4:00 p.m. during the fall in room 204.

National Honor Society Advisor:

The Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Chapter of the National Honor Society at Portland High School represents the highest standards of student excellence. Selection of juniors and seniors by teachers, counselors, and administrators is based on character, service, and leadership. Students who are academically eligible for National Honor Society are invited to apply for membership each spring.

Newspaper Advisor: Ms. Pendleton

Shakespeare Club Advisor:

Shakespeare Club meets regularly throughout the year. In the fall, the club sponsors a monologue night and in the winter, several short adaptations of Shakespeare plays are produced. A full-length production is adapted for the Shakespeare Festival in the spring.

Spanish Club Advisor: Ms. Trainor

Join the Spanish Club and chat with native speakers, view Spanish videos and enjoy some traditional food.

S.A.D.D. Advisors: Ms. Randall

Students Against Destructive Decisions

Student Council Advisors: Rocco Frenzilli

Elections are held for positions on the Student Council. Freshmen vote in November, all other classes in May. Student Council meets every Friday morning at 7:30 in Room 204.

Tenth graders are invited to apply for this selective program in the spring. Those accepted take part in academic enrichment and support during the school year and over two summers.

Note: Clubs are open to all students. Anyone wishing to organize a new club should see Gary Groves, Co-Curricular Activities Director in the Main Office.

Portland High School encourages all students to select and try out for one or more of our athletic teams. Each student athlete must complete an athletic packet covering information regarding physical examinations, insurance coverage, risk involved, transportation liability and other areas for sports participation. These packets may be picked up in the athletic director’s office.

Portland High School offers competitive athletics in the following sports: baseball, basketball (boys and girls), fall and winter cheering, cross country (boys and girls), field hockey, football, golf, ice hockey, indoor track (boys and girls), lacrosse (boys and girls) outdoor track (boys and girls), soccer (boys and girls), softball, rugby (boys and girls) swimming (boys and girls), tennis (boys and girls), and wrestling.

In addition to the interscholastic athletic program, several intramural programs are offered.

The guidelines for participating in competitive athletics are contained in an athletic handbook, which is available in the athletic director’s office. All students participating in competitive athletics must be familiar with the handbook and must complete other requirements for participation (see determining eligibility below).

Athletes planning to compete in Division I or Division II college athletics must register for the NCAA Clearinghouse. To do so, complete the online form at: www.ncaaclearinghouse.net or call the NCAA publications hotline at (800) 638-3731 and ask for a free copy of the "Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete" which contains the registration forms and a Clearinghouse brochure. This guide can also be viewed online.

Regular school attendance is required of all student athletes. Student athletes absent from school during any part of the day of a game or practice will not participate unless the absence is approved by the principal and the athletic director.

• An athlete’s failure to adhere to the Interscholastic Code of Conduct may result in suspension from the team.

• The coaching staff has the right of judgment in matters of enforcing the rules and must apply penalties impartially. In the case of suspension, the coach is responsible for providing a summary report to the co-curricular activity director and the principal prior to the close of the next school day.

• Students who are not enrolled at P.H.S. may attend dances only when accompanied by a student from Portland High School. Administration will call the guest’s school before approving his/her attendance.

• Dances are school functions and all school rules apply.

• Once a student leaves the dance, s/he may not re-enter the building for any reason. Students must also leave school grounds.

• Students may not enter the dance after 10:00 p.m.

• If chaperones detect the odor of alcohol or other controlled substance, or if a student appears to be under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substance, the student will be refused entrance or removed and parents notified. Parents may pick up students involved or police may transport the student to the police station until parents can be reached to pick them up.

All honor to our Portland High,

Her glory we acclaim,

For prowess in the hall and field,

Immortalize her name;

Her friendship’s bonds are welded true,

And hearts with joy unite

In pledging now the watchword tried,

"Uphold the Blue and White."

Guardian tender,

Youth’s defender

Side by side

With conscious pride

To her our praise we render;

Old in story

Shrined in Glory.

Her noble name

We all acclaim

Our Portland High.

Our Portland High shall ever stand

The highest of her peers;

The loyalty and homage due

We’ll pay through all the years

United e’er by friendship’s bonds,

We’ll glory in her might,

And oft again our watchword pledge,

"Uphold the Blue and White

Portland’s sons are brave, her daughters fair,

They’re famed in song and story ev’rywhere.

In stress of life’s endeavor

And crowned with a distinction that is rare.

Honors will not let them put away

The impulse that compels them to obey,

The joy that is supreme

Of cheering for the team

And colors we are waving here today.

Wearers of the Blue,

We are proud of you,

And expect ev’ry man to do his part,

To win is the prize that before you lies;

So be brave and strong of heart.

Harken to the call!

Keep your eyes on the ball!

Let "onward" be your battle cry,

And fight with the might that will give us tonight

A victory for Portland High.

Now the team is ready on the field.

Their strength in ev’ry feature is revealed;

When called upon to do,

They’ll be winning for the Blue

By onset that will make the foeman yield.

Give a rousing cheer to echo free

And rend the very air resoundingly;

To meet in friendly strife

Is the greatest joy inside,

Now cheer the boys along to victory.

Alcohol and Drug Abuse…………. ...8 Prohibited Behaviors………10

Assemblies………………………... .13 Progress Reports………….…3

Athletics……………………………21 Rank in Class………………..5

Attendance……………………….….6 Report Cards………………...3

Buses/Transportation……………... .13 Rules and Regulations………7

Cafeteria…………………………... .14

Cell Phones………………………….9 Schedule Changes………..…4

Class Elections……………………. .18 School Delay/Cancellation...16

Clubs/Student Government………. .18 Search and Seizure……...…10

Computer Use…………………….. .14 Sexuality Education………..17

Corridor Passes…………………… ..8 Smoking…………………….9

Credit for Outside Courses ……...…..3 Social Workers…………….13

Crisis Response Plan…………...… .15 Speech Therapist…………..14

Dances………………………………23 Student Records……………13 Detention…………………………...11

Disipline……………………………10 Student Status………..….. ….2

Dismissal from School………………7 Summer School……………..5

Dress Code……………………….. ..8 Suspension…………………11

Eligibility (Activities)…………….. .19 Textbooks………………...…5

Equal Educational Opportunity…... .11 Twenty Year Old Students….6

Exams…………………………….. ..4 Visitors…………………….17

Excused Absences…………………..7 Warning Notices…………….3

Expulsion…………………………. 11 Weapons………………….…9

Extra-Curricular Activities……….. 17 Work Permits………………17

Extra Help………………………… ..4

Fire Drills…………………………. 16

Fund Raising……………………… 16

Graduation Requirements………… ..2

Guidance Counselors…………….. 11

Harassment, Assault and Battery…. .9

Health Center……………………... 12

Heritage of P.H.S……………….… ..1

Honor Roll……………………….....5

Immunizations……………………..12

Library……………………………. 16

Lockers…………………………….16

Makeup Work………………………7

Mission Statement………………….1

National Honor Society………...… 20

N.C.A.A………………………..….22

Nurse……………………………… 11

Parking……………………………. 16

P.A.T.H.S…………………………...2

Personal Property…………………. 13

Plagiarism………………………….10

Posters………………………….….16