OHIO SCHOOL DISTRICTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Topic Board Policy
Equal Education Opportunity 2260
Student Responsibilities 5200, 5500
Student Well Being 3213, 4213
Injury and Illness 5330, 5430
Section I - General Information
Scheduling and Assignment 5120
Early Dismissal 5230
Withdrawal/Transfer from School 5130
Immunizations 5320
Emergency Medical Authorization 5341
Use of Medications 5330
Nonprescribed Medications 5330
Control of Casual-Contact Communicable Disease 8450
Control of Noncasual-Contact Communicable Diseases 8453
Control of Blood-Borne Pathogens 8453.02
Students with Disabilities 2460
Homeless Students 5111.01
Student Records 8330
Student Fees and Fines 6152, 6152.01
Student Fund Raising 5830
Meal Service 8500, 8531
Fire, Tornado, and Safety Drills
Emergency Closings and Delays 8210
Preparedness for Toxic and
Asbestos Hazards 8431
Visitors 9150
Use of School Equipment and Facilities 7510, 7530
Section II - Academics
Field Trips 2340
Grades 5421
Promotion, Acceleration, and Retention 5410
Early Graduation 5464
Recognition of Student Achievement 5451
Homework 2330
Computers Technology and Networks 7540
Student Assessment 2623
Section III - Student Activities
School-Sponsored Clubs and Activities 2430
Nonschool-Sponsored Clubs and Activities
Athletics 2431
Academic Eligibility 2430, 2431
Student Employment 5895
Student Attendance at School Events 5855
Section IV - Student
Conduct
Attendance 5200
Code of Conduct 5500
Bullying, Harassment, and Intimidation 5517.01
Student Discipline Code 3217, 5500, 5516, 5517, 5600, 5610, 5610.01
Discipline 5610, 5610.01- .05
Due Process Rights 5611
Search and Seizure 5771
Interrogation of Students 5540
Student Rights of Expression 5722
Section V - Transportation
Bus Transportation to School 8600
Videotapes on School Buses 8600
Penalties for Infractions 5610, 5610.04
Transportation of Students by Private Vehicle 8660
Self-Transportation to School 5515
This District provides an equal educational opportunity for all students.
Any person who believes that s/he
has been discriminated against on the basis of his/her race, color, disability,
religion, gender, or national origin while at school or a school activity
should immediately contact the
David
R. Riel
Superintendent
419-375-4139
The School’s rules and procedures are designed to allow students to be educated in a safe and orderly environment. All students are expected to follow staff members’ directions and to obey all school rules.
Students must arrive at school on time, prepared to learn and participate. If, for some reason, this is not possible, the student should seek help from the Guidance Counselor
In order to keep parents informed of their child’s progress in school, parents will be provided information on a regular basis and whenever concerns arise. Many times it will be the responsibility of the student to deliver the information. The School, however, may use the mail or hand delivery when appropriate. Parents have the option of receiving communication from the School via e-mail and/or facsimile by filling out the appropriate form available in the school's administrative office. Parents are encouraged to build a two-way link with their child’s teachers and support staff by informing the staff of suggestions or concerns that may help their child better accomplish his/her educational goals.
Student safety is the responsibility of both students and staff. Staff members are familiar with emergency procedures such as evacuation procedures, fire and tornado drills, safety drills in the event of a terrorist or other violent attack, and accident reporting procedures. If a student is aware of any dangerous situation or accident, s/he must notify a staff person immediately.
State law
requires that all students have an emergency medical authorization completed
and signed by a parent or guardian on file in the School office.
Students with
specific health care needs should deliver written notice about such needs,
along with physician documentation, to the School office.
All injuries must be reported to a teacher or the office. If the injuries are minor, the student will be treated and may return to class. If medical attention is required, the office will follow the School’s emergency procedures and attempt to make contact with the student’s parents.
A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission to go to the office. An appropriate adult in the office will determine whether the student should remain in school or go home. No student will be released from school without proper parental permission.
In general, State law requires students to enroll in the school district in which their parent or legal guardian resides.
Unless enrolling under the District’s open enrollment policy.
Unless enrolling and paying tuition.
New students under the age of 18 must be enrolled by their parent or legal guardian. When enrolling, parents must provide copies of the following:
A. a birth certificate or similar document
B. court papers allocating parental rights and responsibilities, or custody (if appropriate)
C. proof
of residency
D. proof of immunizations
Under certain circumstances, temporary enrollment may be permitted. In such cases, parents will be notified about documentation required to establish permanent enrollment.
Students enrolling from another school must have an official transcript from their previous school in order to have credits transferred. The school secretary will assist in obtaining the transcript, if not presented at the time of enrollment.
New students 18 years of age or older are not required to be accompanied by a parent when enrolling. When residing with a parent, these students are encouraged to include the parents in the enrollment process. When conducting themselves in school, adult students have the responsibilities of both student and parent.
In addition, if a new student resides in the District with a grandparent and is the subject of a: (1) power of attorney designating the grandparent as the attorney-if-fact; or (2) a caretaker authorization affidavit executed by the grandparent that provides the grandparent with authority over the care, physical custody, and control of the child, including the ability to enroll the child in school, consent in all school related matters, and discuss with the District the child's educational progress, the student's grandparent may enroll the child in school on a tuition-free basis. However, in addition to the above‑referenced documents that are typically required for enrollment, the grandparent must provide the District with a duly executed and notarized copy of a power of attorney or caretaker authorization affidavit.
A student suspended or expelled by another public
school in
If a student has been recently discharged or released from the custody of the Department of Youth Services (DYS) and is seeking admittance or re-admittance into the District, the student will not be admitted until the following records, which are required to be released by DYS to the Superintendent, have been received:
A. an updated copy of the student’s transcript;
B. a report of the student’s behavior while in DYS custody;
C. the student’s current IEP, if one has been developed for the child; and
D. a summary of the instructional record of the child’s behavior.
SCHEDULING AND ASSIGNMENT
Schedules are provided to each student at the beginning of the school year or upon enrollment. Schedules are based on the student’s needs and available class space. Any changes in a student’s schedule should be handled through the guidance or principal’s office. Students may be denied course enrollment due to lack of available space or the need for the student to pass prerequisite courses. Students are expected to follow their schedules. Any variation must be approved with a pass or schedule change.
No student may leave school prior to dismissal time without a parent or guardian either submitting a signed written request or coming to the School Office personally to request the release. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent(s) or guardian without a written permission note signed by the custodial parent(s) or guardian.
No student under the age of 18 is allowed to withdraw from school without the written consent of his/her parents and in compliance with State law. A student who otherwise withdraws from school shall be reported to the juvenile judge of the county and to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for suspension of their driver’s license, if s/he is under the age of 18.
Parents must notify the Principal about plans to transfer their child to another school. School records, including disciplinary records of suspension and expulsion, will be transferred to the new school within 14 days of the parents’ notice or request.
Students must be current with all immunizations required by law, including but not limited to poliomyelitis, measles, diphtheria, rubella, pertussis, tetanus, and mumps, or have an authorized exemption from State immunization requirements. Students who start kindergarten during or after the 1999 school year must be immunized against Hepatitis B. Students who start kindergarten during or after the 2006 school year must be immunized against chicken pox. For the safety of all students, the school principal may remove a student from school or establish a deadline for meeting State requirements if a student does not have the necessary immunizations or authorized exemption. In the event of a chicken pox epidemic, the Superintendent may temporarily deny admission to a student otherwise exempted from the chicken pox immunization requirement. Any questions about immunizations or exemptions should be directed to the Mercer County Health Department.
A complete Emergency Medical Authorization Form must be on file with the School in order for a student to participate in any activity off school grounds, including field trips, spectator trips, athletic and other extracurricular activities, and co-curricular activities. The Emergency Medical Authorization form is provided at the time of enrollment and at the beginning of each school year.
Students who must take prescribed medication during the school day, must comply with the following guidelines:
A. Parents should, determine with the counsel of their child's prescriber whether the medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school hours.
B. The appropriate form must be filed with the respective building principal before the student will be allowed to begin taking any medication during school hours or to use an inhaler to self-administer asthma medication. Such forms must be filed annually and as necessary for any change in the medication.
C. All medications must be registered with the Principal’s Office and must be delivered to school in the original containers in which they were dispensed by the prescribing physician or licensed pharmacist, labeled with the date, the student's name, and the exact dosage to be administered.
D. Medication that is brought to the office will be properly secured. Except as noted below, medication must be delivered to the Principal’s Office by the student’s parent or guardian or by another responsible adult at the parent or guardian’s request. Except as noted below, students may not bring medication to school. Students may carry emergency medications for allergies and/or reactions, or asthma inhalers during school hours provided the student has written permission from a parent or physician and has submitted the proper forms. In the case of epinephrine autoinjectors ("epi pens"), in addition to written permission and submission of proper forms, the parent or student must provide a back up dose to the school nurse. Students are strictly prohibited from transferring emergency medication, epi pens, or inhalers to any other student for their use or possession.
· [Medication may be conveyed to school directly by the parent or transported by transportation personnel (bus driver and/or bus aide) at parental request. This should be arranged in advance.
· If, for supportable reasons, the Principal wishes to discontinue the privilege of a student self-administering a medication, except for the possession and use of asthma inhalers, the parent(s) shall be notified of the decision in sufficient time for an alternative means of administration to be established.
E. Any unused medication unclaimed by the parent will be destroyed by school personnel when a prescription is no longer to be administered or at the end of a school year.
F. The parents shall have sole responsibility to instruct their child to take the medication at the scheduled time.
G. The principal will maintain a log noting the personnel designated to administer medication, as well as the date and the time of day that administration is required. This log will be maintained along with the prescriber's written request and the parent’s written release.
No staff member will dispense nonprescribed, over-the-counter (OTC) medication to any student without prior parent authorization. Parents may authorize administration of a nonprescribed medication on forms that are available from the Principal’s Office. Physician authorization is not required in such cases.
If a student is found using or possessing a nonprescribed medication without parent authorization, the student will be brought to the School office while the student’s parents are contacted for authorization. The medication will be confiscated until written authorization is received.
Any student
who distributes medication of any kind or who is found in possession of unauthorized
medication is in violation of the School’s Code of Conduct and will be
disciplined in accordance with the drug-use provision of the Code.
A student may possess and use a metered dose inhaler or a dry powder inhaler to alleviate asthmatic symptoms or before exercise to prevent the onset of asthmatic symptoms, at school or at any activity, event, or program sponsored by or in which the student’s school is a participant if the appropriate form is completed and on file in the Principal’s Office.
A student who is authorized to possess and use a metered dose or dry powder inhaler may not transfer possession of any inhaler or other medication to any other student.
Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific measures when the health or safety of the group is at risk. The School’s professional staff may remove or isolate a student who has been ill or has been exposed to a communicable disease or highly-transient pest, such as lice.
Specific
communicable diseases include diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infections,
whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, and other conditions indicated by the
Local and State Health Departments.
Any removal
will be limited to the contagious period as specified in the School’s
administrative guidelines.
CONTROL OF NONCASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
The
Noncasual-contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, ARC-AIDS Related Complex, HIV, Hepatitis B, and other diseases that may be specified by the State Board of Health.
As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child’s blood checked for HIV and HBV when the child bleeds at school and students or staff members are exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to laws protecting confidentiality.
CONTROL OF BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS
The
Students may be exposed to blood-borne pathogens in situations, including, but not limited to the following:
· (Engaging in activities with other students in the school environment (e.g., physical education class) where physical injuries or other actions that can cause bleeding or exposure to saliva and other body fluids may occur.
· Working with equipment in the school environment that can cause cuts or similar injuries that produce bleeding.
· Participating in extracurricular activities (i.e., athletic activities) where physical injuries or other actions that can cause bleeding may occur.
Whenever a student has contact with blood or other potentially infectious material, s/he must immediately notify his/her teacher, who will contact the principal’s office and assist the student in completing the requisite documents (e.g., Form 8453.02 F1 – Exposure Report).
The parents of a student who is exposed will be contacted immediately regarding the exposure and encouraged to have the student's blood tested for Hepatitis B and HIV either by his/her physician or Mercer County Health Department. The student's parents are encouraged to consult with the student's physician concerning any necessary post-exposure treatment.
· The student's parent will also be asked to provide a copy of the test results and any post-exposure treatment for maintenance in the student's educational record in accordance with the Federal and State laws concerning confidentiality.
The parents of the student who caused the exposure will also be contacted immediately and advised to have the student's blood tested for Hepatitis B and HIV virus either in cooperation with his/her physician or Mercer County Health Department (health service).
· The student's parents will be asked to provide a copy of the test results for maintenance in the student's educational record in accordance with Federal and State laws concerning confidentiality.
· The student's parents will be encouraged to allow the District to release their child's name to the exposed student's parents, in the event serious health issues are presented as a result of the exposure.
The American’s with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) prohibit discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving Federal financial assistance. This protection applies not just to students, but to all individuals who have access to the District’s programs and facilities.
The laws define a person with a disability as anyone who:
A. Has a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities;
B. Has a record of such an impairment; or
C. Is regarded as having such an impairment.
The District has specific responsibilities under these two laws, which include identifying, reviewing and, if the child is determined to be eligible, affording access to appropriate educational accommodation.
Additionally, in accordance with State and Federal mandates, the District seeks out, assesses and appropriately services students with disabilities. Staff members use a comprehensive child study process to systematically screen, assess and, if appropriate, place students in special education and related services. Students are entitled to a free appropriate public education in the "least restrictive environment."
A student can access special education and related services through the proper evaluation procedures. Parent involvement in this procedure is important and required by Federal (IDEIA), A.D.A. Section 504) and State law. Contact the Administration Office at 419.375.4139 to inquire about evaluation procedures, programs, and services.
Homeless students will be provided with a free and appropriate public education in the same manner as other students served by the District. Homeless students are eligible to receive transportation services, participate in education programs for students with disabilities or limited English proficiency, participate in gifted and talented programs, and receive meals under school nutrition programs. Homeless students will not be denied enrollment based on lack of proof of residency. For additional information contact the liaison for Homeless Students at 419.375.4139.
The
Directory information
includes: Refer to District Policy 8330
Directory information can be provided upon request to any individual, other than a for‑profit organization, even without the written consent of a parent. Parents may refuse to allow the Board to disclose any or all “directory information” upon written notification to the Board. For further information about the items included within the category of directory information and instructions on how to prohibit its release you may consult the Board’s annual Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) notice which can be found Administration Office.
Other than
directory information, access to all other student records is protected by
FERPA and
Confidential
records include test scores,
psychological reports, behavioral data, disciplinary records, and
communications with family and outside service providers.
Students and
parents have the right to review and receive copies of all educational
records. Costs for copies of records
may be charged to the parent. To
review student records please provide a written notice identifying requested
student records to the principal’s office. You will be given an appointment with
the appropriate person to answer any questions and to review the requested
student records.
Parents and
adult students have the right to amend a student record when they believe that
any of the information contained in the record is inaccurate, misleading or
violates the student’s privacy.
A parent or adult student must request the amendment of a student record
in writing and if the request is denied, the parent or adult student will be
informed of his/her right to a hearing on the matter.
Consistent with the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), no
student shall be required, as a part of the school program or the
District’s curriculum, without prior written consent of the student (if
an adult, or an emancipated minor) or, if an unemancipated minor, his/her
parents, to submit to or participate in any survey, analysis, or evaluation
that reveals information concerning:
A. political
affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parents;
B. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
C. sex behavior or attitudes;
D. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;
E. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
G. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or his/her parents; or
H. income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such a program).
Consistent
with the PPRA and Board policy, parents may inspect any materials used in
conjunction with any such survey, analysis, or evaluation. Please contact
building Principal to inspect such materials.
Further, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey or
evaluation created by a third party before the survey/evaluation is
administered or distributed by the school to the student. The parent will have access to the
survey/evaluation within a reasonable period of time after the request is
received by the principal.
The
Superintendent will notify parents of students
in the District, at least annually at the beginning of the school year, of the
specific or approximate dates during the school year when the following
activities are scheduled or expected to be scheduled:
A. activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or for selling that information or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose); and
B. the
administration of any survey by a third party that contains one or more of the
items described in A through H above.
The Family Policy Compliance Office in the U.S. Department of Education administers both FERPA and PPRA. Parents and/or eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
www.ed.gov/offices/OM/fpco
Informal
inquiries may be sent to the Family Policy Compliance Office via the following
email addresses:
FERPA@ED.Gov;
and
Students will be provided necessary textbooks for courses of instruction without cost. In accordance with State law, [the school] charges specific fees for the following activities and materials used in the course of instruction:
Charges may
also be imposed for loss, damage or destruction of school apparatus, equipment,
musical instruments, library materials, textbooks and for damage to school
buildings or property. Students
using school property and equipment can be fined for excessive wear and abuse
of the property and equipment.
Fees may be
waived in situations where there is financial hardship.
Students can
avoid late fines by promptly returning borrowed materials.
Failure to pay
fines, fees, or charges may result in the withholding of grades and credits.
Students participating in school-sponsored groups and activities may solicit funds from other students, staff members, and members of the community in accordance with school guidelines.
Students may
not sell any item or service in school without the prior approval of the
Principal. Violation of this policy
may lead to disciplinary action.
Students should not bring items of value to school. Items such as jewelry, expensive clothing, electronic equipment, and the like, are tempting targets for theft and extortion. The School is not liable for any loss or damage to personal valuables.
The School participates in the
National School Lunch Program and makes lunches available to student.
Applications
for the School’s Free and Reduced-Priced Meal program are distributed to
all students. If a student does not
receive an application form and believes s/he is eligible, contact
Principal’s Office.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
A. All
visitors must report to the office when they arrive at school.
B. All
visitors are given and required to wear a building pass while they are in the
building.
C. Staff
are expected to question people in the building whom they do not recognize and
who are not wearing a building pass, and to question people who are
"hanging around" the building after hours.
D. Students
and staff are expected to immediately report to a teacher or administrator any
suspicious behavior or situation that makes them uncomfortable.
E. As
many unneeded outside doors as possible are locked during the school day.
F. Portions
of the building that will not be needed after the regular school days are closed
off.
The School complies with all fire safety laws and will conduct fire drills in accordance with State law. The School conducts tornado drills during the tornado season following procedures prescribed by the State. Teachers will provide specific instructions on how to proceed in the case of fire or tornado and will oversee the safe, prompt, and orderly evacuation of the building in such cases.
Safety drills
will be conducted once per school year.
Teachers will provide specific instruction on the appropriate procedures
to follow in situations where students must be secured in their building rather
than evacuated. These situations
can include a terrorist threat, a person in possession of a deadly weapon on
school property, or other acts of violence.
If the School must be closed or the opening delayed because of inclement weather or other conditions, the School will notify the following radio and television stations:
Information regarding emergency closing of school will
be announced over the following radio and TV stations: WCSM - 96.7 -FM or 1350
AM. Celina, WKKI 94.3 - Celina, WPGW 100.9 - FM or 1400 AM Portland, and WHIO
Channel 7 TV –
Parents and students are responsible for knowing about emergency closings and delays.
PREPAREDNESS FOR TOXIC AND ASBESTOS HAZARDS
The School is concerned for the
safety of students and attempts to comply with all Federal and State Laws and
Regulations to protect students from hazards that may result from industrial
accidents beyond the control of school officials or from the presence of
asbestos materials used in previous construction. A copy of the
Visitors, particularly parents, are welcome at the School. Visitors must report to the office upon entering the School to sign in and obtain a pass. Any visitor found in the building without signing shall be reported to the Principal. If a person wishes to confer with a member of the staff, s/he should call for an appointment prior to coming to the School in order to schedule a mutually convenient meeting time.
Students may
not bring visitors to school without prior written permission from the
Principal.
Students must receive teacher
permission before using any equipment or materials in the classroom. Students must seek permission from the
Principal prior to using any other school equipment or facility. Students are responsible for the proper
use and protection of any equipment or facility they are permitted to use.
The lost and found area is in the office. Students who have lost items should check there and may retrieve their items if they give a proper description. Unclaimed items will be given to charity at the close of the school year.
Office telephones may not be used for personal calls. Except in an emergency, students will not be called to the office to receive a telephone call.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES
{Available in the Guidance Office}
Field trips are academic activities that are held off school grounds. There are also other trips that are part of the School’s co-curricular and extra-curricular program. No minor student may participate in any school-sponsored trip without parental consent and a current emergency medical form on file in the office. Medications normally administered at school will be administered while on field trips. The Student Code of Conduct applies to all field trips.
· Attendance rules apply to all field trips.
· While the District encourages students to participate in field trips, alternative assignments will be provided for any student whose parent does not give permission for the student to attend.
· Students who violate school rules may lose the privilege to go on field trips.
Fort Recovery Local Schools has a standard grading procedure, as well as additional notations that indicate work in progress or incomplete work. Grades indicate the extent to which the student has acquired and demonstrated the necessary learning. In general, students are assigned grades based upon test results, homework, projects, and classroom participation. Each teacher may place a different emphasis on these areas when determining a grade and will so inform the students at the beginning of the course. If a student is not sure how his/her grade will be determined, s/he should ask the teacher. (Refer to the Student Handbook for the current grading scale.)
Grade Point Average
(Please see the Guidance Councilor for more information)
Students will receive a report card at the end of each nine weeks period indicating their grades for each course of study for that portion of the academic term.
When a student appears to be at risk of failure, reasonable efforts will be made to notify the parents so they can talk with the teacher about what actions can be taken to improve poor grades.
PROMOTION,
ACCELERATION, AND RETENTION
Promotion to the next grade (or
level) is based on the following criteria:
A. current
level of achievement based on instructional objectives and mandated
requirements for the current grade
B. potential for
success at the next level
C. emotional, physical, and/or social maturity necessary for a successful learning experience in the next grade
A student may be accelerated
(either by whole-grade or by subject area) when his/her performance and
measured ability significantly exceeds that of his/her grade level peers. Students can be nominated for
acceleration by teachers, administrators, parents, and the student
him/herself. Decisions regarding
acceleration are based on the following criteria:
A. achievement
of grade/course objective and any applicable State-mandated requirements for
the grade/course in which the student is currently and any grade(s)/course(s)
in the student will skip
B. achievement of
instructional objectives for the present grade/course as well as the succeeding
one(s)
C. potential
for success in the accelerated placement based on sufficient proficiency at
current level
D. social, emotional, and physical maturation necessary for success in an accelerated placement
A student may be retained at his/her current grade level based on the following criteria:
E. failure to achieve the instructional objectives at the current grade level that are requisite for success at the next grade level
A student will be retained if s/he is truant (absent without excuse) for more than ten percent (10%) of the required attendance days of the current school year AND has failed two (2) or more of the required curriculum subject areas in the current grade.
Even if s/he falls in the preceding category, a student may be promoted if the Principal and the teachers of the classes that the student failed agree that the student is academically prepared to be promoted.
No student will be promoted to the fourth grade if s/he attained a score below a basic level of skill on the reading section of the State-mandated assessment test unless the building principal and the reading teacher agree that other evaluations of the student’s skill in reading demonstrate that the student is academically prepared to be promoted to fourth grade, or a plan for intensive intervention during fourth grade has been developed. This requirement does not apply to any student who is legitimately excused from taking the State-mandated assessment test. No student will be promoted to the fifth grade if s/he has attained a score below a basic level of skill on the reading section of the State-mandated assessment test unless the building principal and reading teacher agree that other evaluations of the student’s skill in reading demonstrate that the student is academically prepared to be promoted to fifth grade, or a plan for intensive intervention during the fifth grade has been developed.
Normally, students will complete graduation requirements in four (4) years. In order to receive a diploma and graduate, a student must pass all assessment tests required by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) for graduation, meet the school requirements for basic course-work, and earn the total number of minimum credits. For students enrolled in special education, the criteria for graduation and the extent of participation in the State-mandated assessment tests will be determined by their IEP team.
As an alternate to the requirement that students attain passing scores on all graduation tests required by the ODE in order to be eligible to graduate, students can meet the State requirements if the following conditions are met:
Specific course requirements are:
English 4 credits
Health 1/2 credit
Phys. Ed. 1/2 credit
Mathematics 3 credits
Science 3 credit(s)
Social Studies 3 credits
Electives 6 credits
Total 20 credits
The
1. successfully completed the high school curriculum (i.e., course, credit and other requirements), or completed the student’s individual education program;
2. attained at least the applicable scores on the achievement tests required by the State Board of Education for graduation;
3.A completed the college preparatory program and met at least 8 of the following 9 criteria:
a. earn 4 units of English;
b. earn 3 units of Mathematics, which shall include Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, or a 3 year sequence of courses which contains equivalent content;
c. earn at least 3 units of Science, which develop the concepts for physical, life, and earth and space sciences;
d. earn 3 units of Social Studies;
e. earn either 3 units of 1 foreign Language or 2 units each of 2 Foreign Languages;
f. earn 1 unit of Fine Arts;
earn either 1 unit of business/technology and 2 additional units in (a)
through (f); or 3 additional units in (a) through (f);
h. maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4 point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year; or
i. obtain a composite score of 27 on the American College Testing Program’s (ACT) Tests or an equivalent composite score of 1210 on the Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT);
OR 3.B completed an intensive vocational or technical education curriculum and met at least 9 of the following 10 criteria:
earn 4 units of English, which may include 1 unit of Applied Communication;
earn 3 units of Mathematics,
which will include Algebra and Geometry, or a sequence of courses that contain
equivalent content;
c. earn 3 units of Science, which develop concepts for physical, life, and earth and space sciences;
d. earn 3 units of Social Studies;
e. earn 2 units of a foreign language or 2 units of business/technology, or 1 unit of each;
f. earn 3 units in the student’s vocational or technical education curriculum
g. earn 2 additional units in (a) through (f) or fine arts;
h. maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4 point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year;
i. complete a career passport that reflects achievement of the occupational proficiency benchmark established for the Ohio Vocational Competency Assessment or the equivalent; or
j. obtain a composite score of 27 on the American College Testing Program’s (ACT) Tests, or an equivalent composite score of 1210 on the Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT).
It is the student’s responsibility to maintain contact with his/her Counselor to ensure that his/her graduation requirements are being met.
Students who wish to apply for early graduation should apply to the high school principal. Early graduation will be permitted if the student fulfills the graduation requirements and conditions for graduation. Students who choose early graduation may participate in the graduation ceremonies of their designated class.
Any student in grades 9 through 12 may enroll in a postsecondary program provided s/he meets the requirements established by law and by the District. A student may (NOTE: This must be consistent with Policy 2271) be denied high school credit for any portions of or for the entire class if taken during a period of expulsion. Student participation requires written consent of the Superintendent and, for students under 18, written consent of the parents or attendance in counseling services offered with this educational option. Any interested student should contact the guidance councilor to obtain the necessary information.
Students who display significant achievements during the course of the year are recognized for their accomplishments. Areas that may merit recognition include, but are not limited to, academics, athletics, performing arts, citizenship, and volunteerism. Recognition for such activities is initiated by the staff and coordinated by the building principal.
Honor Roll(s)
See Student Handbook
Athletic Awards
Requirements for athletic awards
are developed by each head coach with the approval of the Athletic
Director. Student athletes
interested in such awards should consult with the appropriate coach.
Homework will be assigned. Student grades will reflect the completion of all work, including outside assignments. Homework is also part of the student’s preparation for the assessment tests and graduation.
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS
The District provides Internet services to its students. The District's Internet system has a limited educational purpose, and has not been established as a public access service or a public forum. Student use of the District's computers, network and Internet services/connection ("Network") are governed by the following principles and guidelines, and the Student Code of Conduct. Users have a limited privacy expectation in the content of their personal files and records of their online activity while on the Network.
Parents and students are advised that the Board may not be able to technologically limit access through the Board's Internet connection to only those services that have been authorized for the purpose of instruction, study and research related to the curriculum. Because it serves as a gateway to any publicly available file server in the world, the Internet opens classrooms and students to electronic information resources that have not been screened by educators for use by students of various ages. The District utilizes a Technology Protection Measure, which is a specific technology that will protect against (e.g., filter or block) access to visual displays/depictions that are obscene, pornographic, and materials that are harmful to minors, as defined by the Children's Internet Protection Act. At the discretion of the Board or the Superintendent, the Technology Protection Measure may be configured to protect against access to other material considered inappropriate for students to access.
The District further utilizes software and/or hardware to monitor online activity of students to restrict access to child pornography and other material that is obscene, objectionable, inappropriate and/or harmful to minors. Nevertheless, parents/guardians are advised that a determined user may be able to gain access to services on the Internet that are not authorized for educational purposes. In fact, it is impossible to guarantee students will not gain access through the Internet to information and communications that they and/or their parents/guardians may find inappropriate, offensive, objectionable or controversial. Parents/Guardians assume risks by consenting to allow their child to participate in the use of the Internet. Parents/Guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using the Internet. The District supports and respects each family's right to decide whether to apply for independent student access to the Internet.
Students are encouraged to use the "Network" for educational purposes. Use of the Network is a privilege, not a right. When using the Network, students must conduct themselves in a responsible, efficient, ethical, and legal manner. Students are responsible for good behavior on the District's computers/network and the Internet just as they are in classrooms, school hallways, and other school premises and school sponsored events. Communications on the Internet are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. Unauthorized or inappropriate use of the Network, including any violation of these rules, may result in cancellation of the privilege, disciplinary action consistent with the Student Code of Conduct, and/or civil or criminal liability. Prior to accessing the Network, students must sign the Student Network and Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Agreement. Parent permission is required for minors. Parents are encouraged to discuss their values with their children so that students can make decisions regarding their use of the Network that is in accord with their personal and family values, in addition to the Board's standards.
Smooth operation of the Network relies upon users adhering to the following guidelines. The guidelines outlined below are not exhaustive but are provided so that users are aware of their general responsibilities.
A. Students are responsible for their behavior and communication on the Network.
B. Students may only access the Network by using their assigned Network account. Use of another person's account/address/password is prohibited. Students may not allow other users to utilize their account/address/password. Students may not go beyond their authorized access.
C. Students may not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, data or passwords belongings to other users, or misrepresent other users on the Network.
D. Students may not use the Network to engage in "hacking" or other illegal activities (e.g., software pirating; intellectual property violations; engaging in slander, libel, or harassment; threatening the life or safety of another; stalking; transmission of obscene materials or child pornography; fraud; sale of illegal substances and goods).
E. Transmission of any material in violation of any State or Federal law or regulation, or Board policy is prohibited.
F. Any use of the Network for commercial purposes (e.g., purchasing or offering for sale personal products or services by students), advertising, or political lobbying is prohibited.
G. Use of the Network to engage in cyberbullying is prohibited. ""Cyberbullying" involves the use of information and communication technologies such as e-mail, cell phone and pager text messages, instant messaging (IM), defamatory personal Web sites or MySpace accounts, and defamatory online personal polling Web sites, to support deliberate, repeated, and hostile behavior by an individual or group, that is intended to harm others." For further information on cycberbullying, visit http://www.cyberbullying.ca
Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to the following:
1. posting slurs or rumors or other disparaging remarks about a student or school staff member on a web site or on weblog;
2. sending e-mail or instant messages that are mean or threatening, or so numerous as to drive up the victim's cell phone bill;
3. using a camera phone to take and send embarrassing photographs/recordings of students or school staff members or post these images on video sharing sites such as You Tube;
4. posting misleading or fake photographs of students or school staff members on web sites.
To the extent permitted by the First Amendment, instances of cyber‑bullying off school grounds that disrupt the school environment or interfere with the learning process will be considered violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
H. Students are expected to abide by the following generally-accepted rules of network etiquette:
1. Be polite, courteous, and respectful in your messages to others. Use language appropriate to school situations in any communications made through the Network. Do not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, sexually explicit, defamatory, threatening, abusive or disrespectful language in communications through the Network (including, but not limited to, public messages, private messages, and material posted on web pages).
2. Do not engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks.
3. Do not harass another person. Harassment is persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person. If a student is told by a person to stop sending him/her messages, the student must stop.
4. Do not post information that, if acted upon, could cause damage or a danger of disruption.
5. Never reveal names, addresses, phone numbers, or passwords of yourself or other students, family members, teachers, administrators, or other staff members while communicating on the Internet. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, disclosing personal identification information on commercial web sites.
6. Do not transmit pictures or other information that could be used to establish your identity without prior approval of a teacher.
7. Never agree to get together with someone you "meet" on-line without parent approval and participation.
8. Check e-mail frequently and diligently delete old mail on a regular basis from the personal mail directory to avoid excessive use of the electronic mail disk space.
9. Students should promptly disclose to their teacher or other school employee any message they receive that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable, especially any e-mail that contains pornography. Students should not delete such messages until instructed to do so by a staff member.
I. Malicious use of the Network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computer system and/or damage the software components of a computer or computing system is prohibited. Students may not use the Network in such a way that would disrupt its use by others. Students must avoid intentionally wasting limited resources. Students may not bypass or attempt to bypass the District's Technology Protection Measure. Students must immediately notify the teacher, principal, or Tech. Coordinator if they identify a possible security problem. Students should not go looking for security problems, because this may be construed as an unlawful attempt to gain access.
J. All communications and information accessible via the Internet should be assumed to be private property (i.e. copyrighted and/or trademarked). All copyright issues regarding software, information, and attributions/acknowledgement of authorship must be respected. Rules against plagiarism will be enforced.
K. Downloading of information onto the Board's hard drives is prohibited, without prior approval from staff member. If a student transfers files from information services and electronic bulletin board services, the student must check the file with a virus-detection program before opening the file for use. Only public domain software may be downloaded. If a student transfers a file or software program that infects the Network with a virus and causes damage, the student will be liable for any and all repair costs to make the Network once again fully operational.
L. Students must secure prior approval from a teacher before joining a Listserv (electronic mailing lists) and should not post personal messages on bulletin boards or "Listservs."
M. Students are prohibited from accessing or participating in online "chat rooms" or other forms of direct electronic communication.
N. Privacy in communication over the Internet and the Network is not guaranteed. In order to verify compliance with these guidelines, the Board reserves the right to monitor, review, and inspect any directories, files and/or message residing on or sent using the Network. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the appropriate authorities.
O. Use
of the Internet and any information procured from the Internet is at the
student's own risk. The Board makes
no warranties of any kind, either express or implied, that the functions or the
services provided by or through the Network will be error-free or without
defect. The Board is not
responsible for any damage a user may suffer, including, but not limited to,
loss of data, service interruptions, or exposure to inappropriate material or
people. The Board is not
responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the
Internet. Information (including
text, graphics, audio, video, etc.) from Internet sources used in student
papers, reports, and projects should be cited the same as references to printed
materials. The Board will not be
responsible for financial obligations arising through the unauthorized use of
the Network. Students or parents of
students will indemnify and hold the Board harmless from any losses sustained
as the result of misuse of the Network by the student. Use of the Network by students will be
limited to those students whose parents have signed a release of claims for
damages against the Board,.
P. File-sharing is strictly prohibited. Students are prohibited from downloading and/or installing file-sharing software or programs on the Network.
Q. Students may not establish or access web-based e-mail accounts on commercial services through the Network (e.g., Gmail), Hotmail, Yahoo mail, etc.).
R. Since there is no central authority on the Internet, each site is responsible for its own users. Complaints received from other sites regarding any of the District's users will be fully investigated and disciplinary action will be taken as appropriate.
S. Preservation of Resources and Priorities of Use: Computer resources are limited. Because space on disk drives and bandwidth across the lines which connect the Network (both internally and externally) are limited, neither programs nor information may be stored on the system without the permission of the teacher. Each student is permitted reasonable space to store e-mail, web, and personal files. The Board reserves the right to require the purging of files in order to regain disk space. Students who require access to the Network for class-or instruction‑related activities have priority over other users. Students not using the Network for class-related activities may be "bumped" by any student requiring access for class-or instruction‑related purpose. [ ] The following hierarchy will prevail in governing access to the Network:
1. Class work,
assigned and supervised by a staff member.
2. Class work, specifically assigned but independently conducted.
3. Personal correspondence (checking, composing, and sending email).
4. Training (use of such programs as typing tutors, etc.)
5. Personal discovery ("surfing the Internet").
6. Other uses – access to resources for "other uses" may be further limited during the school day at the discretion of the principal or tech. coordinator.
Parents/Guardians have to complete and return to the District Form 8330 F4a in order to authorize the staff to communicate with the parent/guardian via facsimile and/or electronic mail ("e-mail"). Parents who elect to communicate with a staff member via e-mail are required to keep the District informed of any changes to their e-mail address.
Unless exempted, each student
must pass all portions of the State-mandated assessment test as a requirement
for graduation. The test will be
administered twice a year until the student passes all parts of the test. Students are only required to retake
those parts of the test they have not yet passed. While the
Additional
group tests are given to students to monitor progress and determine educational
mastery levels. These tests help
the staff determine instructional needs.
Classroom
tests are given to assess student progress and assign grades. These are selected or prepared by
teachers to assess student achievement on specific objectives.
Vocational and
interest surveys may be given to identify particular areas of student interests
or talent. These are often given by
the guidance staff.
College
entrance testing information can be obtained from the Guidance Office.
PUBLIC SCHOOL CHOICE OPTIONS
The No
Child Left Behind Act of 2001 provides that parents/guardians of students
enrolled in a Title I school in the District that has been listed for
“School Improvement” for two (2) or more years, have the right to
transfer their children to another school in the District, provided there is a
school that provides instruction at the students’ grade level(s) and such
school has not been identified as being in the process of school improvement, corrective
action, or restructuring. However,
if there is not another school in the District offering instruction at the
students’ grade level(s) that has not been identified as needing
improvement, the Superintendent will contact neighboring districts and request
that they permit students to transfer to a school in one of those
districts. Supplemental Education
Services (SES) will also be offered to students if a transfer within the
District is not possible.
Additionally, if a school within the District has been designated as “persistently dangerous” as defined by State law, students have the right to transfer to another “safe” school in the District. If there is not another “safe” school in the District providing instruction at the students’ grade level(s), the Superintendent shall contact neighboring districts and request that they permit students to transfer to a school in one of those districts. Further, if a student is a victim of a violent crime on school property, s/he also has the right to transfer to another school in the District. If there is not another school in the District providing instruction at the student’s grade level, the Superintendent shall contact neighboring districts and request that they permit that student to transfer to a school in one of those districts providing instruction at the student’s grade level.
SCHOOL-SPONSORED CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
Fort Recovery Local Schools provides students the opportunity to broaden their learning through curricular-related activities. A curricular-related activity may be taken for credit, required for a particular course, and/or contain school subject matter.
Extra-curricular activities do not reflect the School
curriculum, but are made available to students to allow them to pursue
additional worthwhile activities such as recreational
sports, drama, and the like.
All students
are permitted to participate in the activities of their choosing, as long as
they meet the eligibility requirements.
Participation in these activities is a privilege and not a right, and
students may be prohibited from all or part of their participation in such
activities by authorized school personnel without further notice, hearing
and/or appeal rights in accordance with Board Policy 5610.05.
NONSCHOOL-SPONSORED CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
Nonschool-sponsored student groups may meet in the school building during noninstructional hours. The application for permission to use school facilities can be obtained from the Principal. The applicant must verify that the activity is being initiated by students, that attendance is voluntary, that no school staff person is actively involved in the event, that the event will not interfere with school activities, and that nonschool persons do not play a regular role in the meeting. All school rules relating to student conduct and equal opportunity to participate apply to such activities.
Membership in any fraternity, sorority, or other secret society as proscribed by law is not permitted. All groups must comply with School rules and must provide equal opportunity to participate.
No nondistrict-sponsored organization may use the name of the school or school mascot on any materials or information.
Fort Recovery Local Schools provides a variety of athletic activities in which students may participate provided they meet eligibility requirements established by the Board and by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). Participation in these activities is a privilege and not a right, and students may be prohibited from all or part of their participation in such activities by authorized school personnel without further notice, hearing and/or appeal rights in accordance with Board Policy 5610.05.
For further information, contact
the Athletic Director, at 419-375-4111.
Refer to District policies 2430 & 2431
It is recommended that students not take jobs outside of school that could interfere with their success in school. If a student elects to maintain a job in addition to going to school, s/he must first contact his/her counselor to discuss any legal requirements and to obtain any required documents.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL EVENTS
Students are encouraged to attend as many after school events as possible, without interfering with their school work and home activities. Enthusiastic spectators help to build school spirit and encourage those students participating in the event.
It is strongly advised that students attending evening events as nonparticipants be accompanied by a parent or adult chaperone. The Board is not responsible for supervising unaccompanied students nor will it be responsible for students who arrive without an adult chaperone.
Regular attendance is a significant student responsibility at all grade levels. Many studies correlate regular attendance with success in school. Regular attendance means that the academic learning process is not interrupted, less time is spent on make-up assignments, and students benefit from participation and interaction with others in class. Many important lessons are learned through active participation in classroom and other school activities that cannot be replaced by individual study.
· Establishing a pattern of good attendance will benefit the student in school and in the workplace. Attendance is important in the development of a high quality work ethic, which will be a significant factor in a student’s success with future employers. One of the most important work habits that employers look for in hiring and promoting a person is his/her dependability in coming to work every day on time. This is a habit the School wants to help students develop as early as possible.
Unexcused absence from school (truancy) is not acceptable. Students who are truant will receive no credit for school work that is missed. A student will be considered habitually truant if the student is absent without a legitimate excuse for 5 or more consecutive school days, for 7 or more school days in 1 month, or 12 or more school days in 1 school year. Furthermore, a student will be considered chronically truant if the student is absent without a legitimate excuse for 7 or more consecutive school days, for 10 or more school days in 1 month, or 15 or more school days in 1 school year.
If a student
is habitually or chronically truant and the student’s parent fails
to cause the student’s
attendance, a complaint will be filed with the Judge of the Juvenile Court in
compliance with State law and Board Policy 5200. Habitual or chronic truancy can also
result in: [Refer to Policy 5200]
Excused Absences
Students may be excused from
school for one or more of the following reasons and will be provided an
opportunity to make-up missed school work and/or tests: [Refer
to Policy 5200]
Notification of Absence
If a student will be absent, the parents must notify the School at 419-375-4111or 419-375-2815 by 8:30 am and provide an explanation. If prior contact is not possible, the parents should provide a written excuse as soon as possible after the student’s absence. When no excuse is provided, the absence will be unexcused and the student will be identified as truant for that school day. If the offered excuse for a student’s absence is questionable or if the number of student absences is excessive, the school staff will notify the parents of the need for improvement in the student’s attendance.
A skipped class or part of the school day will be identified as an unexcused absence and students will not be permitted to make-up missed class work. The student will also be subject to disciplinary action.
Students with a health condition that causes repeated absences must provide the administration with an explanation of the condition from a registered physician.
The School may arrange for individual instruction at home for students who are unable to attend school because of an accident, illness, or disability. Such instruction may be arranged upon receipt of documentation of the student’s condition from a physician. For more information, contact the superintendent’s office
Make-up of Tests and Other School Work
Students who are absent from school
with an excuse shall be given the opportunity to make‑up missed
work. The student should
contact as soon as possible to
obtain assignments.
· The number of days for completion of make up work will be equivalent to the number of excused days of absence.
If a student misses a teacher’s test due to an excused absence, s/he should make arrangements with the teacher to take the test at another time. If s/he misses a State‑mandated assessment test or other standardized test, the student should consult with the teacher to arrange for administration of the test at another time.
Suspension from School
Absence from school due to suspension shall be considered an authorized absence.
· A suspended student will be responsible for making up school work missed due to suspension. Assignments may be obtained from classroom teachers beginning with the first day of suspension. Make up of missed tests may be scheduled when the student returns from school.
· The student must complete missed assignments during the suspension and turn them in to the teacher
· by the time the student returns to school.
· The student will be given credit for properly-completed assignments and will receive a grade for any made-up tests.
Unexcused Absences
Any student who is absent from school for all or any
part of the day without a legitimate excuse shall be considered truant and the
student and his/her parents shall be
subject to the truancy laws of the State. (Please refer also to
“Truancy” page in the handbook.)
If a student
under the age of 18, has 10 or more consecutive or 15 total days of unexcused
absence during a semester, s/he will be considered habitually absent and will
be reported to the Judge of the Juvenile Court and to the Bureau of Motor
Vehicles for suspension of his/her driver’s license, if appropriate, as a
result of this excessive absence.
Tardiness - Secondary Level
Each student is expected to be in his/her assigned location throughout the school day. If a student is late arriving at school, s/he must report to the School office before going to his/her first assigned location. Any student who is late to class up to 8:45 am shall be disciplined by the teacher.
Students who
are tardy to school more than three times during a semester shall be
disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct.
It is recommended that parents not take their child out of school for vacations. When a family vacation must be scheduled during the school year, the parents should discuss the matter with the Principal to make necessary arrangements. It may be possible for the student to receive certain assignments that may be completed during the trip.
A major component of the educational program [at the school] is to prepare students to become responsible citizens by learning how to conduct themselves properly and in accordance with established standards. Students are expected to behave in accordance with Federal, State and local laws and rules and Board policies and Administrative Guidelines, and in a way that respects the rights and safety of others. Staff will take corrective action to discipline a student and/or to modify the student's behavior when a student's behavior does not fall within these parameters.
School staff may report suspected criminal misconduct by a student to law enforcement. Law enforcement officers will be permitted to carry out necessary law enforcement functions in the schools, including the removal of a student from school grounds in appropriate circumstances.
Students are expected to:
· be prompt to school and attentive in class;
· work cooperatively with others when involved in accomplishing a common goal regardless of the other’s ability, gender, race, or ethnic background;
· complete assigned tasks on time and as directed;
· help maintain a school environment that is safe, friendly, and productive;
· act at all times in a manner that reflects pride in self, family, and in the School.
Classroom Environment
It
is the responsibility of students, teachers, and administrators to maintain a
classroom environment that allows:
A. a
teacher to communicate effectively with all student in the class; and
B. all students in the class the opportunity to learn.
Dress and Grooming
Students are expected to dress appropriately at all times. Any fashion (dress, accessory, or hairstyle) that disrupts the educational process or presents a safety risk will not be permitted. (Refer to student handbook)
Students should consider the following questions when dressing for school:
Does my clothing expose too much?
Does my clothing advertise something that is prohibited to minors?
Are there obscene, profane, drug-related, gang-related, or inflammatory messages on my clothing?
Am I dressed appropriately for the weather?
Do I feel comfortable with my appearance?
Students who are representing [the school] at an official function or public event may be required to follow specific dress requirements. Usually, this applies to athletic teams, cheerleaders, bands, and other such groups.
Gangs
Gangs that initiate, advocate or promote activities that threaten the safety or well‑being of persons or that are disruptive to the school environment will not be tolerated.
Incidents involving initiations, hazing, intimidations or related activities that are likely to cause harm or personal degradation are prohibited.
Students wearing, carrying or displaying gang paraphernalia or exhibiting behaviors or gestures that symbolize gang membership or causing and/or participating in activities that are designed to intimidate another student will be disciplined. Prohibited gang paraphernalia will be specifically identified and posted by the principal.
Care of Property
Students are responsible for the care of their own personal property. The School is not responsible for personal property. Valuables such as jewelry or irreplaceable items should not be brought to school.
Damage to or loss of school equipment and facilities wastes taxpayers’ money and undermines the school program. Therefore, if a student damages or loses school property, the student and/or his/her parents will be required to pay for the replacement or repair. If the damage or loss was intentional, the student will be subject to discipline according to the Student Discipline Code.
Harassment and/or Aggressive Behavior (including
Bullying/Cyberbullying)
The Board encourages the promotion of positive interpersonal relations between members of the school community. Harassment and/or aggressive behavior (including bullying/cyberbullying) toward a student, whether by other students, staff, or third parties is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This prohibition includes physical, verbal, and psychological abuse, and any speech or action that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive learning environment. The Board will not tolerate any gestures, comments, threats, or actions which cause or threaten to cause bodily harm or personal degradation. Individuals engaging in such conduct will be subject to disciplinary action.
Conduct constituting sexual harassment may take different forms, including but not limited to, the following:
Verbal:
The making of offensive written or oral innuendoes, comments, jokes, insults, threats, or disparaging remarks concerning a person's race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, or disability.
Nonverbal:
Placing offensive objects, pictures, or graphic commentaries in the school environment or making insulting or threatening gestures based upon a person's race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, or disability.
Physical:
Any intimidating or disparaging action such as hitting, pushing, shoving, hissing, or spitting, on or by a fellow staff member, students, or other person associated with the District, or third parties, based upon the person's race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, or disability.
Aggressive behavior is defined as inappropriate conduct that is repeated enough, or serious enough, to negatively impact a student's educational, physical, or emotional well being. This type of behavior is a form of intimidation and harassment, although it need not be based on any of the legally protected characteristics, such as sex, race, color, marital status, or disability. It would include, but not be limited to, such behaviors as stalking, bullying/cyberbullying, intimidating, menacing, coercion, name-calling, taunting, making threats, and hazing.
Each report will be investigated in a timely manner and as confidentially as possible. The District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board's legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any discovery or disclosure obligations. While a charge is under investigation, no information will be released to anyone who is not involved with the investigation, except as may be required by law or in the context of a legal or administrative proceeding. All records generated under the terms of this policy and its related administrative guidelines shall be maintained as confidential to the extent permitted by law. All individuals involved in an investigation as either a witness, victim or alleged harasser and/or bullying/cyberbullying will be instructed not to discuss the subject outside of the investigation.
Given the nature of harassing and/or bullying/cyberbullying behavior, the School recognizes that false accusations can have serious effects on innocent individuals. Therefore, all students are expected to act responsibly, honestly, and with the utmost candor whenever they present harassment and/or bullying/cyberbullying allegations or charges.
Some forms of
sexual harassment of a student may reasonably be considered child abuse which
must be reported to the proper authorities.
Each of the behaviors and/or types of misconduct described below are prohibited and may subject the student to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, student conference, parent/guardian notification, parent/guardian conference, detention, in-school discipline, suspension and/or expulsion from school. Furthermore, any criminal acts committed at or related to the School will be reported to law enforcement officials as well as disciplined at school. Certain criminal acts may result in permanent exclusion from school.
1. Possession/use of drugs and/or alcohol
Possessing, using, transmitting or concealing, or being under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, controlled substance including, but not limited to, narcotics, mood altering drugs, counterfeit controlled substances, look‑alikes, over the counter stimulants or depressants, anabolic steroids, or drug‑related paraphernalia.
If a building principal has a reasonable individualized suspicion of drug or alcohol use, s/he may request the student in question to submit to any appropriate testing, including but not limited to, a breathalyzer test or urinalysis. In such circumstances, the student will be taken to a private administrative or instructional area on school property for such testing with at least one other member of the teaching or administrative staff present as a witness to the test. If a student refuses to take the test, s/he will be advised that such denial leaves the observed evidence of alcohol or drug use unrefuted thus leading to possible disciplinary action. The student will then be given a second opportunity to take the test.
2. Possession/use of tobacco
Possession, consumption, distribution, purchase or attempt to purchase, and/or use of tobacco products in school, on school grounds, on school buses, and at any interscholastic competition, extra-curricular event, or other school‑sponsored event. Tobacco products include, but are not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff or any other matter or substance that contains tobacco. Smoking clove cigarettes is also prohibited.
3. Use and/or possession of a
firearm
Bringing a
firearm (as defined in the Federal Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994) onto school
property or to any school-sponsored activity, competition, program, or event,
regardless of where it occurs, will result in a mandatory one (1) year
expulsion under
4. Use and/or possession of a weapon
A weapon is any device that may be used for offensive or defensive purpose, including but not limited to conventional objects such as guns, pellet guns, knives, or club type implements. It may also include any toy that is presented as a real weapon or reacted to as a real weapon. Possession and/or use of a weapon may subject a student to expulsion and possible permanent exclusion.
A knife is defined as any cutting instrument consisting of a sharp blade fastened to a handle, a razor blade or any similar device that is used for, or is readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury.
5. Use of an object as a weapon
Any object that is used to threaten, harm, or harass another may be considered a weapon. This includes but is not limited to padlocks, pens, pencils, laser pointers, and jewelry.
6. Knowledge of dangerous weapons or threats of violence
Because the Board believes that students, staff members, and visitors are entitled to function in a safe school environment, students are required to report knowledge of dangerous weapons or threats of violence to the Principal. Failure to report such knowledge may subject the student to discipline.
7. Arson
Intentional or purposeful destruction or damage to school or district buildings or property by means of fire. Anything, such as fire, that endangers school property and its occupants will not be tolerated. Arson is a felony.
8. Physically assaulting a staff member/student/person associated with the District.
Acting with intent to cause fear in another person of immediate bodily harm or death, or intentionally bullying, inflicting or attempting to inflict bodily harm upon another person. Physical assault of a staff member, student, or other person associated with the District, regardless of whether it causes injury, will not be tolerated. Any intentional, harmful or potentially harmful physical contact or bullying initiated by a student against a staff member will be considered to be assault. Assault may result in criminal charges and may subject the student to expulsion.
9. Verbally threatening (either orally, in writing or otherwise expressed) a staff member/student/person associated with the District.
Any oral or written statement or
otherwise expressed action that a staff member, student, or other person
associated with the District reasonably feels to be a threat will be considered
a verbal assault. Profanity
directed toward a staff member in a threatening tone may also be considered a
verbal assault. Confrontation with a student or staff member that
bullies, intimidates, or causes fear of bodily harm or death is also
prohibited.
10. Misconduct
against a school official or employee,
or the property of such a person, regardless of where it occurs.
The Board prohibits misconduct committed by a student against a school official or employee, including, but not limited to, harassment vandalization, assault (verbal and/or physical), and destruction of property.
11. Misconduct off school
grounds
Students may be
subject to discipline for their misconduct even when it occurs off school property when the misconduct is
connected to activities or incidents that occurred on property owned or
controlled by the District.
Misconduct is defined as any violation of the Student Discipline Code.
12. Extortion
Extortion is the use of threat, intimidation, force, or deception to take, or receive something from someone else. Extortion is against the law.
13. Gambling
Gambling (i.e., playing a game of chance for stakes) includes casual betting, betting pools, organized-sports betting, and any other form of wagering. Students who bet on any school activity in which they are involved may also be banned from that school activity.
14. Falsification of school work, identification, forgery
Falsifying signatures or data, or
refusing to give proper identification or giving false information to a staff
member. This prohibition includes,
but is not limited to, forgery of hall/bus passes and excuses, as well as use
of false I.D.’s.
Plagiarism and cheating are also forms of falsification and will subject the student to academic penalties as well as disciplinary action.
15. Bomb Threats, and other false alarms and reports
Making a bomb threat (i.e., intentionally giving a false alarm of a bomb) against a school building or any premises at which a school activity is being held at the time the threat is made may result in expulsion for a period of up to one (1) school year. Additionally, intentionally giving a false alarm of a fire, or tampering or interfering with any fire alarm is prohibited. It should be remembered that false emergency alarms or reports endanger the safety forces that are responding to the alarm/report, the citizens of the community, and the persons in the building. What may seem like a prank, is a dangerous stunt that is against the law and will subject the student to disciplinary action.
Threatening, directly or indirectly, to commit a crime of violence with the purpose to terrorize another or with reckless disregard of the risk of causing terror in another.
Possessing or using any compound or mixture, the primary or common purpose of which is to function by explosion, with substantially instantaneous release of gas and heat (including, but not limited to explosives and chemical-reaction objects such as smoke bombs and poppers). Additionally, possessing or offering for sale any substance, combination of substances or article prepared to produce a visible and/or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation.
18. Trespassing
Although schools are public facilities, the law allows the Board to restrict access to school property. Being present in any Board-owned facility or portion of a Board-owned facility when it is closed to the public or when the student does not have the authorization to be there, or unauthorized presence in a Board‑owned vehicle; or unauthorized access or activity in a Board-owned computer, into district, school or staff computer files, into a school or district file server, or into the Network. When a student has been removed, suspended, expelled, or permanently excluded from school, the student is prohibited from being present on school property without authorization of the principal.
19. Theft, or knowingly receiving or possessing stolen property
Unauthorized taking of property of another person or receiving or possessing such property. Students caught stealing will be disciplined and may be reported to law enforcement officials. The School is not responsible for personal property.
20. Insubordination
Students are expected to comply with the reasonable directions of staff. Willful refusal or failure to follow or comply with an appropriate direction given by a staff member, or acting in defiance of staff members.
21. Damaging property (Vandalism)
Defacing, cutting, or otherwise damaging property that belongs to the school, district, other students, employees or others) and disregard for school property.
22. Persistent absence or tardiness
Attendance laws require students to be in school all day or to have a legitimate excuse for their absence. Penalties for unexcused absences can range from detention to a referral to court and/or revocation of the student’s driver’s license.
23. Unauthorized use of school or private property
Students must obtain permission to use any school property or any private property located on school premises. Any unauthorized use of school property, or private property located on school premises, shall be subject to disciplinary action.
24. Refusing to accept discipline
Students failing to comply with disciplinary penalties may face enhanced penalties for such action.
25. Aiding or abetting violation of school rules
Assisting other students in the violation of any school rule. Students are expected to resist peer pressure and exercise sound decision‑making regarding their behavior.
26. Displays of affection/sexual activities
Affection between students is personal and not meant for public display. This includes touching, petting, or any other contact that may be considered sexual in nature. Sexual activity of any nature is prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
27. Possession of electronic equipment
The School will supply any electronic equipment or devices necessary for participation in the educational program. Examples of prohibited devices include but are not limited to radios, “boom-boxes”, headphones, CD/MP3 players, portable TV’s, electronic games/toys, pagers, cellular telephones, beepers, other paging devices and other electronic communication devices, and the like. Unauthorized electronic equipment will be confiscated from the student by school personnel and disciplinary action will be taken.
28. Violation of individual school/classroom rules
Each learning environment has different rules for students. These rules are for the safe and orderly operation of that environment. Students will be oriented to specific rules within each learning environment, all of which will be consistent with this Code.
29. Violation of bus rules (see Section V – Transportation)
30. Interference, disruption or obstruction of the educational process
Any actions or manner of dress that materially and substantially disrupts or interferes with school activities or the educational process, or which threaten to do so are unacceptable. Such disruptions include, but are not limited to, delay or prevention of lessons, assemblies, field trips, athletic and performing arts events.
31. Harassment and/or Aggressive Behavior (including Bullying/Cyberbullying)
The Board encourages the promotion of positive interpersonal relations between members of the school community. Harassment and/or aggressive behavior (including bullying/cyberbullying) toward a student, whether by other students, staff, or third parties is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This prohibition includes physical, verbal, and psychological abuse, and any speech or action that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive learning environment. The Board will not tolerate any gestures, comments, threats, or actions which cause or threaten to cause bodily harm or personal degradation. Individuals engaging in such conduct will be subject to disciplinary action.
A. Verbal:
The making of offensive written or oral sexual innuendoes, suggestive comments, jokes of a sexual nature, sexual propositions, threats, or propositions toward a staff member, student, or other person associated with the District, or third parties.
B. Nonverbal:
Causing the placement of offensive sexually suggestive objects, pictures, or graphic commentaries in the school environment or the making of offensive sexually suggestive or insulting gestures, sounds, leering, whistling, and the like to or by a staff member, student, or other person associated with the District, or third parties.
C. Physical Contact:
Threatening or causing unwanted touching, contact, or attempts at same, including patting, pinching, brushing the body, or coerced sexual activity with or by a staff member, student, or other person associated with the District, or third parties. Such conduct constitutes sexual violence, and includes physical acts of aggression or force, or threat of aggression or force, which involves non‑consensual sexual contact or sexual intercourse with another person, including intentional touching of clothing covering a person's intimate parts, intentional touching of person's intimate parts, forcing a person to touch another person's intimate parts, or intentional attempted or actual removal of clothing covering a person's intimate parts or undergarments.
Conduct
constituting harassment on the basis or race, color, national origin, religion,
or disability may take different forms, including, but not limited to, the
following:
A. Verbal:
The making of offensive written or oral innuendoes, comments, jokes, insults, threats, or disparaging remarks concerning a person's race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, or disability.
B. Nonverbal:
Placing offensive objects, pictures, or graphic commentaries in the school environment or making insulting or threatening gestures based upon a person's race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, or disability.
C. Physical:
Any intimidating or disparaging action such as hitting, pushing, shoving, hissing, or spitting, on or by a fellow staff member, students, or other person associated with the District, or third parties, based upon the person's race, color, national origin, religious beliefs, or disability.
Aggressive behavior is defined as inappropriate
conduct that is repeated enough, or serious enough, to negatively impact a
student's educational, physical, or emotional well being. This type of behavior is a form of
intimidation and harassment, although it need not be based on any of the
legally protected characteristics, such as sex, race, color, marital status, or
disability. It would include, but
not be limited to, such behaviors as stalking, bullying/cyberbullying,
intimidating, menacing, coercion,
name-calling, taunting, making threats, and hazing.
Any student
who believes that s/he is the victim of any of the above actions or has
observed such actions by another student, staff member, or other person
associated with the District, or by third parties should contact the District's
Anti-Harassment Complaint Coordinator(s):
[list from page 3 of Administrative Guideline 5517]
The Complaint
Coordinators are available during regular school hours to discuss a student's
concerns related to harassment and/or bullying/cyberbullying, to assist a
student who seeks support or advice when informing another individual about
"unwelcome" conduct, or to intercede informally on behalf of the
student.
The student
may report his/her concerns to the Anti-Harassment Complaint Coordinators
either by a written report, telephone, or personal visit. In reporting his/her concerns, the
student should provide the name of the person(s) whom s/he believes to be responsible
for the harassment and or bullying/cyberbullying and the nature of the
harassing and/or bullying/cyberbullying incident(s). The Anti‑Harassment Complaint
Coordinators will promptly compile a written summary of each such report that
will be forwarded to the Principal.
Each report
will be investigated in a timely manner and as confidentially as possible. The District will respect the privacy of
the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the
witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board's legal obligations to
investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any discovery or
disclosure obligations. While a
charge is under investigation, no information will be released to anyone who is
not involved with the investigation, except as may be required by law or in the
context of a legal or administrative proceeding. All records generated under the terms of
this policy and its related administrative guidelines shall be maintained as
confidential to the extent permitted by law. All individuals involved in an
investigation as either a witness, victim or alleged harasser and/or
bully/cyberbully will be instructed not to discuss the subject outside of the
investigation.
If an
investigation reveals that a harassment and/or bullying/cyberbullying complaint
is valid, appropriate remedial and or disciplinary action will be taken
promptly to prevent the continuance of the harassment and/or
bullying/cyberbullying or its recurrence.
Given the nature of harassing and/or bullying/cyberbullying behavior, the School recognizes that false
accusations can have serious effects on innocent individuals. Therefore, all students are expected to
act responsibly, honestly, and with the utmost candor whenever they present harassment
and/or bullying/cyberbullying allegations or charges.
Some forms of
sexual harassment of a student may reasonably be considered child abuse that
must be reported to the proper authorities.
These
guidelines shall not be interpreted to infringe upon the First Amendment rights
of students (i.e., to prohibit a reasoned and civil exchange of opinions, or
debate, that is conducted at appropriate times and places during the school day
and is protected by State or Federal law).
Retaliation
against any person who reports, is thought to have reported, files a complaint,
or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry concerning allegations
of harassment and/or aggressive behavior is prohibited and will not be
tolerated. Such retaliation shall
be considered a serious violation and independent of whether a complaint is
substantiated. Suspected
retaliation should be reported in the same manner as harassment and aggressive
behavior. Making intentionally
false reports about harassment or aggressive behavior for the purpose of
getting someone in trouble is similarly prohibited and will not be
tolerated. Retaliation and
intentionally false reports may result in disciplinary action as indicated
above.
Any one having
further questions concerning prohibited behaviors and/or the complaint process
should request a copy of Board policies and administrative guidelines 5517 and
5517.01.
32. Hazing
Performing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to perform any act of initiation into any class, team, or organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm. Permission, consent, or assumption or risk by an individual subjected to hazing shall not lessen the prohibitions contained in this rule.
Hazing by any individual, school group, club, or team is not permitted. This includes any form of initiation that causes or creates a risk of causing mental or physical harm, no matter how willing the participant may be. Hazing activities are prohibited at any time in school facilities, on school property, and/or off school property but connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on school property.
All incidents of hazing must be reported immediately to any of the following individuals: the building principal or other administrator; teacher; coach; student club advisor/supervisor, and/or Superintendent. Students who engage in hazing may also be liable for civil and criminal penalties.
33. Violent
Conduct
Students may be expelled for up to one school year for committing an act at school, on other school property, at an interscholastic competition, extracurricular event, or any other school program, or directing an act at a Board official or employee, regardless of where or when that act may occur, or their property that would be a criminal offense if committed by an adult and results in serious physical harm to person(s) or property.
34. Improper
Dress
Clothing may not include words or visuals that are lewd, obscene, disruptive, abusive, or discriminatory, or that advertise drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Dress or grooming that is disruptive of the classroom or school atmosphere is not allowed. Shoes must be worn at all times for health and safety reasons.
35. Careless or Reckless Driving
Driving on school property in such a manner as to endanger persons or property.
36. Burglary
Entering a building or a specific area of a building without consent and with intent to commit a crime, or entering a building without consent and committing a crime.
37. Fighting
Engaging in adversarial physical contact (differentiated from poking, pushing, shoving or scuffling) in which one or the other party(ies) or both contributed to the situation by verbally instigating a fight and/or physical action. Promoting or instigating a fight (i.e., contributing to a fight verbally or through behavior).
38. Lighting Incendiary Devices
Unauthorized igniting of matches, lighters and other devices that produce flames.
39. Possession of Pornography
Possessing sexually explicit material.
40. Unauthorized use of vehicles
Occupying or using vehicles during school hours without parental permission and/or school authorization.
It is important to remember that the School’s rules apply going to and from school, at school, on school property, at school-sponsored events, on school transportation, and on property not owned or controlled by the Board but that is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on property owned or controlled by the Board. Furthermore, students may be disciplined for conduct that, regardless of where or when it occurs, is directed at a Board official or employee, or the property of such official or employee. In some cases, a student can be suspended from school transportation for infractions of school bus rules.
The School is committed to providing prompt, reasonable discipline consistent with the severity of the incident. The consequences for misbehavior are designed to be fair, firm and consistent for all students in the School.
Because it is not possible to list every misbehavior that occurs, misbehaviors not listed above will be responded to as necessary by staff.
Two (2) types of discipline are possible, informal and formal.
Informal discipline takes place within the School. It includes:
· writing assignments;
· change of seating or location;
· pre-school, [ ] lunch-time, [ ] after-school detention;
· in-school discipline;
· Saturday school
· Alternative School
A student may be detained after school or asked to come to school early by a teacher, after giving the student and his/her parents one day’s notice. The student or his/her parents are responsible for transportation.
In-School Discipline
Saturday school will be in session from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Assigned
students will attend a continuous 4 hour period during which time they will be
permitted one 5 minute break at
10:00 a.m. Each student shall
arrive with sufficient educational materials to be busy during this 4 hour
study period.
A student
missing any portion of his/her assigned time in Detention, In-School
Discipline,
The following
rules apply to Detention, In-School Discipline,
· Students are required to have class assignments with them.
· Students are not to communicate with each other unless given permission to do so.
· Students are to remain in their designated seats at all times unless permission is granted to do otherwise.
· Students shall not be allowed to put their heads down or sleep.
· No electronic communication devices, radios, CD/MP3 players, cards, magazines, or other entertainment/recreational articles or devices shall be allowed in the room.
· No food or beverages shall be consumed.
· Any student who has not passed all of the State-mandated assessment tests will be required to work on a study packet for one or more of the unpassed tests.
Transportation
to and from Saturday school is the student/parent's responsibility.
Formal Discipline
Formal discipline involves removal of the student from school. It includes emergency removal for up to three (3) school days, suspension for up to ten (10) school days, expulsion for up to eighty (80) school days or the number of days remaining in a semester, whichever is greater, and permanent exclusion. Suspensions and expulsions may carry over into the next school year. Any student who is expelled from school for more than twenty (20) days or for any period of time if the expulsion will extend into the following semester or school year will be provided with information about services or programs offered by public and private agencies that work toward improving those aspects of the student’s attitude and behavior that contributed to the incident that gave rise to the student’s expulsion. The Superintendent at his/her discretion may require/allow a student to perform community service in conjunction with or in place of an expulsion. The Superintendent may impose a community service requirement beyond the end of the school year in lieu of applying the expulsion to the following school year. Removal for less than one (1) school day without the possibility of suspension or expulsion may not be appealed. Suspension, expulsion, and permanent exclusion may be appealed.
Students being
considered for suspension are entitled to an informal meeting
with the building administrator
prior to removal. Also, students being considered
for expulsion are entitled to an informal meeting with the Superintendent or
designee prior to removal. During
the informal meeting, the
student will be notified of the charges and given the opportunity to respond.
Students
involved in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities such as band and
athletics can lose their eligibility for violation of the School rules.
If a student
commits a crime while under the School’s jurisdiction, s/he may be
subject to school disciplinary action as well as action through local law
enforcement.
Before a student is suspended, expelled, or permanently excluded from school, there are specific procedures that must be followed.
As long as the
in-school discipline is served entirely in the school setting, it will not
require any notice or meeting, or be subject to appeal.
When a student is being considered for a suspension, the administrator in charge will notify the student of the basis for the proposed suspension. The student will be given an opportunity to explain his/her view of the underlying facts. After that informal hearing, the Principal [or assistant principal or other administrator] will determine whether or not to suspend the student. If the decision is made to suspend the student, s/he and his/her parents will be given written notification of the suspension within one (1) day setting forth the reason for the suspension, the length of the suspension, and the process for appeal. The suspension may be appealed, within 1 day after receipt of the suspension notice, to principal or the superintendent. The request for an appeal must be in writing.
Depending on the nature of the suspension, during the appeal process,
· the student shall not be allowed to remain in school.
· the student is allowed to remain in school unless safety is a factor.
If the appeal
is heard by the Board’s designee, the appeal shall be conducted in a
private hearing. If the appeal is
heard by the Board of Education, the appeal shall be conducted in executive
session unless the student or his/her representative requests otherwise. A verbatim transcript will be made and
witnesses will be sworn in prior to giving testimony. If the appeal decision is to uphold the
suspension, the next step in the appeal process is to the Court of Common
Pleas.
Emergency Removal
If a student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property, or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process taking place either in a classroom or elsewhere on the school premises, the Superintendent, principal or assistant principal may remove the student from any curricular or extracurricular activity or from the school premises. A teacher may remove the student from any curricular or extracurricular activity under the teacher’s supervision, but not from the premises.
If a teacher makes
an emergency removal, the teacher will notify a building administrator of the
circumstances surrounding the removal in writing within one (1) school
day. No prior notice or hearing is
required for any removal under this procedure. In all cases of normal disciplinary
procedures where a student is removed from curricular or extracurricular
activity for less than one school day, and is not subject to further suspension
for expulsion, the following due process requirements do not apply.
If the emergency removal exceeds one (1) school day, then a hearing will be held within three (3) school days after the removal is ordered. Written notice of the hearing and the reasons for removal and any intended disciplinary action will be provided to the student, as soon as practical prior to the hearing. If the student is subject to an out of school suspension, the student will have the opportunity to appear at an informal hearing before the principal, assistant principal, Superintendent or a designee, and may challenge the reasons for the removal or otherwise explain his/her actions.
Within one (1) school day of the decision to suspend, written notification will be given to the parent(s)/guardian(s) or custodian(s) of the student. This notice will include the reasons for the suspension, the right of the student or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) or custodian(s) to appeal to the Board or its designee, and the student’s right to be represented in all appeal proceedings. If it is likely that the student may be subject to expulsion, the hearing will take place within three (3) school days and will be held in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Student Expulsion Policy. The person who ordered or requested the removal will be present at the hearing. In an emergency removal, a student may be kept from class until the matter of the alleged misconduct is resolved either by reinstatement, suspension or expulsion.
Expulsion from School
When a student is being considered for expulsion, the
student and parent will be provided with a formal notice of the proposed
expulsion. This written notice will
include the reasons for the intended expulsion, notification of the opportunity
to appear in person before the Superintendent or the Superintendent’s
designee to challenge the reasons for the expulsion and/or explain the
student’s action, and notification of the time and place to appear. Students being considered for expulsion
may be removed immediately. A hearing will be
scheduled no earlier than three (3), nor no later than five (5) school days
after the notice is given. Parents
may request an extension of time for the hearing. The student may be represented by
his/her parents, legal counsel, and/or by a person of his/her choice at the hearing.
In accordance with Board Policy 5610, the Superintendent shall initiate expulsion proceedings against a student who has committed an act that warrants expulsion under Board policy even if the student withdraws from school prior to the hearing or decision to impose the expulsion. The expulsion will be imposed for the same duration that it would have been had the student remained enrolled.
If a student is expelled, the student and the student’s parents will be provided with written notice within one (1) school day of the imposed expulsion. The notice will include the reasons for the expulsion, the right of the student, or the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) or custodian(s) to appeal the expulsion to the Board or its designee, the right to be represented in all appeal proceedings, the right to be granted a hearing before the Board or its designee, and the right to request that the hearing be held in executive session.
Within 10 days after the Superintendent notifies the parents of the expulsion, the expulsion may be appealed, in writing, to the Board of Education or its designee. A hearing on the requested appeal will be formal with an opportunity for sworn testimony. If the expulsion is upheld on appeal, a student’s parents may pursue further appeal to the Court of Common Pleas.
Students serving expulsions will not be awarded grades or credit during the period of expulsion. Expulsion for certain violations including use or possession of alcohol or drugs, may result in revocation of student’s driver’s license. When a student is expelled, the Superintendent will notify any college in which the expelled student is enrolled under the Postsecondary Enrollment Option at the time the expulsion is imposed.
State law provides for the permanent exclusion of a
student, 16 years of age or older who engages in certain criminal
activity. Permanently excluded
students may never be permitted to return to school anywhere in the State of
A. conveying deadly weapons onto school property or to a school function;
B. possessing deadly weapons onto school property or at a school function;
C. carrying a concealed weapon onto school property or at a school function;
D. trafficking in drugs onto school property or at a school function;
E. murder, aggravated murder on school property or at a school function;
F. voluntary or involuntary manslaughter on school grounds or at a school function;
G. assault or aggravated assault on school property or at a school function;
H. rape, gross sexual imposition or felonious sexual penetration on school grounds, or at a school function, when the victim is a school employee.
This process is formal and may follow an expulsion with the proper notification to the parents.
Discipline of Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities are entitled to the rights and procedures afforded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (I.D.E.I.A.), and, where applicable, the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.), and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Suspension of Bus Riding/Transportation
Privileges
When a student is being considered for suspension of
bus riding/transportation privileges, the administrator in charge will notify
the student of the reason. The
student will be given an opportunity to address the basis for the proposed
suspension at an informal hearing. After that informal hearing, the Principal [or assistant principal or other administrator] will decide
whether or not to suspend his/her bus riding/transportation privileges for all
or part of the school year.
If a
student’s bus riding/transportation privileges are suspended, s/he and
his/her parents will be notified, in writing within one day, of the reason for
and the length of the suspension.
Administrators
may search a
student or his/her property (including vehicles, purses, knapsacks, gym bags,
etc.) with or without the student’s consent, whenever they
reasonably suspect that a search
will lead to the discovery of evidence of a violation of law or school
rules. The extent of the search
will be governed by the seriousness of the alleged infraction and the
student’s age. General housekeeping
inspection of school property may be conducted with reasonable notice. Student lockers are the property of the
District and students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in their
contents or in the contents of any other District property including desks or
other containers. School authorities
may conduct random searches of
the lockers and their contents at any time without announcement. Unannounced and random canine searches
may also be conducted.
(Note:
Signs accurately reflecting this policy MUST be placed in a conspicuous
area by lockers.)
Additionally,
students have NO reasonable expectation of privacy in their actions in public
areas including but not limited to, common areas, hallways, cafeterias,
classrooms and gymnasiums. The
District may use video cameras in such areas and on all school vehicles
transporting students to and from regular and extracurricular activities.
Anything that
is found in the course of a search may be used
as evidence of a violation of school rules or the law, and may be taken, held
or turned over to the police. The
School reserves the right not to return items that have been confiscated.
The School is
committed to protecting students from harm that may be connected with the
school environment and also recognizes its responsibility to cooperate with law
enforcement and public child welfare agencies. While the School believes these agencies
should conduct their investigations off school property if possible,
investigations can take place at school in emergency situations or if the
violation being investigated occurred on school property.
Before
students are questioned as witnesses or suspects in an alleged criminal
violation, the building administrator will attempt to contact a parent prior to
questioning and shall remain in the room during questioning.
If a student
is questioned as the subject of alleged child abuse or neglect, the building
administrator will attempt to contact a parent prior to questioning, and s/he
(or a designated guidance counselor) will remain in the room during
questioning. If the agency
investigating the alleged child abuse or neglect suspects the parent is the
perpetrator, neither parent will be contacted prior to questioning, but the
building administrator (or a designated guidance counselor) will remain in the
room during questioning.
If law
enforcement or children's services agency removes a student from school, the
building administrator will notify a parent.
The School
recognizes the right of students to express themselves. With the right of expression comes the
responsibility to do so appropriately.
Students may distribute or display, at appropriate times, nonsponsored,
noncommercial written material and petitions; buttons, badges, or other insignia;
clothing, insignia, and banners; and audio and video materials. All items must meet school guidelines.
A. Material cannot be displayed if it:
1. is obscene to minors, libelous, or pervasively indecent or vulgar;
2. advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;
3. intends to be insulting or harassing;
4. intends to incite fighting; or
5. presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or manner of distribution or display, it will cause or is likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of school or school activities, a violation of school regulations, or the commission of an unlawful act.
B. Material may not be displayed or distributed during class periods, or between classes. Permission may be granted for display or distribution during lunch periods, and/or before or after school in designated locations, as long as exits are not blocked and there is proper access and egress to the building.
Students who are unsure whether materials they wish to display meet school guidelines may present them to the building principal twenty-four (24) hours prior to display.
SECTION V - TRANSPORTATION
The School provides transportation for all students who live farther than one mile from school. The transportation schedule and routes are available by contacting the superintendents office at 419-375-4139 .
Students may only ride assigned buses and must board and depart from the bus at assigned bus stops. Students will not be permitted to ride unassigned buses for any reason other than an emergency, except as approved by the Principal.
The principal may approve a change in a student’s regular assigned bus stop to address a special need. Parents should send a note to the principal stating the reason for the request and the duration of the requested change.
Students who are riding to and from school on District-provided transportation must follow all basic safety rules. This applies to school-owned buses as well as any contracted transportation.
The driver may assign seating or direct students in any reasonable manner to maintain transportation safety.
Students must comply with the following basic safety rules:
Prior to loading (on the road and at school)
Each student shall:
· be on time at the designated loading zone (five minutes prior to scheduled stop);
· stay off the road at all times while walking to and waiting for school transportation;
· line up single file off the roadway to enter;
· wait until the school transportation is completely stopped before moving forward to enter;
· refrain from crossing a highway until the driver signals it is safe to cross;
· properly board and depart the vehicle
· go immediately to a seat and be seated.
It is the parents’ responsibility to inform the bus driver when their child will not be aboard school transportation. Drivers will not wait for students who are not at their designated stops on time.
During the trip
Each student shall:
· remain seated while the school transportation is in motion;
· keep head, hands, arms, and legs inside the school transportation at all times
· not push, shove or engage in scuffling;
· not litter in the school vehicle or throw anything in, into, or from the vehicle;
· keep books, packages, coats, and all other objects out of the aisle;
· be courteous to the driver and to other riders;
· not eat or play games, cards, etc.;
· not use nuisance devices (e.g., laser pointers) on the bus in a way that disrupts the safe transportation of students and/or endangers students or employees.
· not tamper with the school vehicle or any of its equipment (including, but not limited to emergency and/or safety equipment).
Exiting the school vehicle
Each student shall:
· remain seated until the vehicle has stopped;
· cross the road, when necessary, at least 10 feet in front of the vehicle, but only after the driver signals that it is safe;
· be alert to a possible danger signal from the driver.
The driver will not discharge students at places other than their regular stop at home or at school unless s/he has proper authorization from school officials.
The Board of Education may install video cameras on school buses to monitor student behavior.
If a student
misbehaves on a bus and his/her actions are recorded on a videotape, the tape
will be submitted to the Principal and may be used as evidence of misbehavior.
A student who misbehaves on the bus shall be disciplined in accordance with the Student Discipline Code and may lose the privilege of riding on the bus.
Transportation of Students By Private Vehicle
When transportation by District vehicle is either not
available or feasible, there may be a need to provide transportation to
students by private vehicle.
However, no students will be permitted to ride in a private vehicle
unless written consent is provided by each student’s parent using Form
8660 F2 – Parental Consent for Transportation by Private Vehicle. Upon request, parents of participating
students will be given the name of the driver, the owner of the vehicle, and
the description of the vehicle.
Driving to school is a privilege that can be revoked at any time. Students who are provided the opportunity to ride school transportation are encouraged to do so. Students and their parents assume full responsibility and liability for any transportation to and from school not officially provided by the School.
The following
rules shall apply:
· Students under age 18 must have written parent permission prior to driving to school.
· Students and their parents shall complete the Student Vehicle Form 5515 F1 – Application to Drive Vehicles On School Property and provide evidence of:
o driver’s license;
o insurance certificate;
o vehicle registration.
· Students are required to obey the parking lot speed limit of 5-10 mph.
Failure to comply with these rules will result in loss of privileges and/or disciplinary actions for a student.
· When the School provides transportation, students shall not drive to school-sponsored activities.
o unless the student’s parents provide written authorization for the student to drive and release the Board from liability using Form 5515 F2 ‑ Parental Authorization and Release From Liability Form – which is approved by the principal.
o All vehicles entering school property are subject to search and inspection.
NOTE:
Be advised that the following forms are available on the
▪ Title
VI, IX, 504 Grievance Form 2260 F2
▪ Notice
of Nondiscrimination and Grievance Procedures for Title II, Title VI, Title
VII, Title IX, Section 504 and
▪ Authorization
for Prescribed Medication or Treatment Form 5330 F1
▪ Authorization
for Nonprescription Medication or Treatment, Secondary Version Form 5330 F1a
▪ Authorization
for the Possession and Use of Asthma Inhalers Form 5330 F3
▪ Authorization
for Nonprescription Medication or Treatment, Elementary Version Form 5330 F1b
▪ Parent/Student
Acknowledgement of Student Handbook Form 5500 F1
▪ Memorandum
to Parents Regarding School Board Policy on Drug-Free Schools Form 5530 F2
▪ Notification
to Parents Regarding Student Records Form 8330 F9
▪ Notification
to Parents on Blood-borne Pathogens Form 8453.01 F5
▪ Student
Network and Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Agreement Form 7540.03 F1
▪ Application
To Drive Vehicles On School Property Form 5515F1
▪ Parental
Authorization and Release From Liability Form 5515 F2
▪ Request
that Directory Information Not Be Released to Recruiters Without Prior Written
Consent Form 8330 F13
▪ Parent
Permission for the District to Communicate About a Student with the Parent Via
Facsimile and/or E-mail Form 8330F4a