1. All applicants will be required to complete an "Application and Permit for Use of Abington School Facilities" form. Forms for such a request can be picked up at the Office of the School Superintendent or in the main office at any school building. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide a safe environment for their group. As such, be aware that there are a small number of residents in the Town of Abington classified as sex offenders. The applicant must consult with the Abington Police Department relative to the Sex Offender Registry. The Police Department maintains and disseminates information concerning registered sex offenders in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws. Additional information is available at the Abington Police Department website (www.abington.police.org). For information concerning offenders that live or work in Abington, contact the Abington Police Department (781-878-3232).
2. Individuals or organizations wishing to use a school facility must return the application to the building principal at the school being requested for use.
3. Applications for use of school facilities should be submitted to the Superintendent’s Office according to the following annual schedule:
4. Please note that school activities may take precedence in the use of the building. On occasions, schedule changes will result in organizations not being able to use the facilities on the dates initially agreed to. The organization using the facilities should make proper provisions in the event such changes occur.
5. Under normal circumstances and subject to space availability and appropriate use, the use of indoor school facilities during an off season by local youth athletic organizations will be limited to one (1) month prior to the start of the regular season.
6. All building and fire codes must be strictly enforced.
7A. All individuals or organizations using school property must secure liability insurance covering not only the renter's liability but also the liability of the Town of Abington for any possible accidents on the property. The required minimums are $1,000,000 per occurrence with a combined single limit of $3,000,000 per occurrence involving more than one person. This insurance must cover dress rehearsals if an admission charge is made. A certificate (binder) of such liability insurance may be requested as part of the application procedure.
7B. In the event a community group is unable to provide a certificate of insurance, each participant including adult supervisors must sign an indemnification agreement and must file the same with the Park and Recreation Department or the School Department. Indemnification Forms may be picked up either at the Park and Recreation Department or school offices.
(Amended August 26, 1997, by Abington School Committee vote)
7C. School related volunteer organizations who use school facilities to conduct activities for the benefit of Abington's students and who are acknowledged by the School Department are exempt from this requirement.
(Amended December 10, 1996, by School Committee vote)
8. At least one policeman may be required to be present at all public gatherings on school property. Arrangements for this protection should be made in advance by the renter directly with the Abington Police Department. Written documentation of compliance must be submitted with the application.
9. Groups using the school and/or gym should be properly supervised by an adult or adults at all times. No youngsters will be allowed in the building without proper supervision. Participants should be told not to arrive before the time scheduled. If the youngsters arrive before the person who is responsible for supervising them, they should be instructed to wait outside the door and remain orderly.
10. The Abington School Department reserves the right to limit the number of spectators attending an event.
11. Rental of a school facility does not imply access to the school's equipment. Arrangements for use of that school's equipment must be made in advance. Costs associated with the use of the school's equipment will be included in the invoice. Use of some equipment requires the direct supervision of school personnel.
12. Those in charge should inspect the school area before leaving to see that the floors are cleaned of debris, clothing and equipment. Applicants agree to return chairs, tables, equipment, etc., to their original places. Supervisors should be the last to leave and should report any broken or damaged equipment to the custodian on duty.
13. All groups using the building must be certain that all exterior doors in the area being used are closed and should check with the custodian before leaving the premises.
14. Any damage caused to the assigned school facilities or school equipment whether accidental or not, occurring during the period of the facility use will be the direct responsibility of the user. The facility will be inspected after use and a bill for damages mailed out to the responsible party using the facility.
15. All groups must strictly adhere to the time limitations agreed upon for use.
16. When a school facility will not be used as scheduled, the Office of the Principal must be notified 24 hours in advance by the user, or three hours of custodial fees will be charged.
17. Facilities will not normally be available for use within two weeks of the opening of school each year and for the ten school days immediately preceding the closing date of school, as determined by the school committee; unless approved by the principal or director of the school facility.
18. When use of the kitchen equipment is requested, a cafeteria employee and/or additional custodial help may also be required.
19. Refreshments may only be served in the cafeteria/cafetorium. Food and beverages are not allowed in any other areas of the school.
20. On a "No School" day because of a holiday or due to inclement weather, there will be no other activities in the school buildings.
21. In case of inclement weather, notice of cancellation of activities in school buildings will be announced over various radio stations.