2003-2004 HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT & PARENT HANDBOOK
The material covered within this student/parent handbook is intended as a method of communicating to students and parents/guardians regarding general district information, rules, and procedures and is not intended to either enlarge or diminish any Board policy, administrative regulation, or negotiated agreement. Materials contained herein may therefore be superseded by such Board policy, administrative regulations or negotiated agreement.
Any information contained in this student handbook is subject to unilateral revision or elimination from time to time without notice.
No information in this document shall be viewed as an offer, expressed or implied, or as a guarantee of any employment of any duration.
Parents/Guardians objecting to the release of directory information on their student should notify the district office within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of the Student & Parent Handbook.
Parents/Guardians must also give their signed and dated written permission for the district to release personally identifiable information. A written permission form is provided with registration materials.
The Arlington School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, disability or marital status providing education or access to benefits of education services, activities and programs in accordance with Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, and other civil rights or discrimination issues; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Further, no student will be excluded from participating in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity conducted by the district. The district will treat its students without discrimination on the basis of sex as this pertains to course offerings, athletics, counseling, employment assistance and extracurricular activities.
Complaints alleging violation of this policy should be filed using the procedures in Board policy KL, Public Complaints.
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) gives parents/guardians and students who are 18 or older or emancipated minors (“eligible students”) certain rights regarding the school district’s conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and conduct of certain physical exams. These include the right to:
1. Consent to federally funded surveys concerning “protected information.” If the U.S. Department of Education funds a survey in whole or in part, a student’s parents or an eligible student must consent in writing before the student may provide information relating to the following categories:
· Political affiliations;
· Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
· Sexual behaviors or attitudes;
· Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
· Critical appraisals of student’s family members;
· Privileged or similar relationships recognized by law, such as with attorneys, doctors, and ministers;
· Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parents; or
· Income other than that required by law to determine program eligibility.
A survey that concerns any of these points is called “protected information survey.”
2. Opt out of certain surveys and exams. Parents/Guardians and eligible students will receive notice of any of the following activities and will have the right to opt out of them:
· Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for purposes of marketing or selling or otherwise distributing the information to others;
· Any protected information survey, regardless of funding; and
· Any nonemergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent and scheduled by the school, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student or of another student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law.
3. Inspect certain material. Parents/Guardians and eligible students have the right to inspect the following, upon request, before the district administers or uses them:
· Protected information surveys of students (including any instructional materials used in connection with the survey);
· Documents used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
· Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.
4. Receive notification of district policy. The School District has developed a policy, in consultation with parents/guardians, regarding these rights and has made arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The School District will directly notify parents/guardians and eligible students, such as through U.S. Mail or e-mail, of this policy at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes are made.
5. Report violations. Parents/Guardians and eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave. SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
While parents/guardians are free to choose private schooling or additional services (such as tutoring) from a private individual or organization, the District has no obligation to pay for such services or schooling. If the parent/guardian wants the District to consider making a placement for the child in a private school or with private services, parents/guardians must give the District notice and opportunity to propose other public school options.
Therefore, whether the child is identified as disabled (under IDEA or Section 504) or not, the parents/guardians must provide notice as follows: If parents decide to withdraw their student to enroll the student in a private school, parents must give notice either at the last IEP meeting attended or to the school administrator in writing at least ten (10) business days before withdrawing their student. If parents/guardians fail to do this, and instead make a private placement themselves, a court or hearing officer may reduce or deny reimbursement if it is requested by the parent/guardian.
1. Learning is a lifelong process, which is adaptable to change, and not confined to any one institution.
2. Students learn in a variety of ways. Differences in learning styles and rates should be respected, and different modes of learning should be available.
3. In order to prepare students for a global environment, the learning process must emphasize the access, manipulation and use of information. Technological competence must be integrated with critical thinking and reasoning skills.
4. Students need a strong sense of values, skills, and knowledge to make choices, which enable them to function as responsible, productive members of society.
Education is a partnership in which all parties have both rights and responsibilities.
Schools, students, families business, and community should seek to enter meaningful and effective relationships with open lines of communication to ensure educational opportunities and growth.
1. An effective learning environment is safe, nurturing, and challenging.
2. In an effective learning environment, each member of the educational partnership feels respected and accommodated.
3. Self-esteem is enhanced in an environment where individual differences and ideas are respected, where special strengths and weaknesses are addressed, and where each person is valued as a unique individual regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity.
It is the purpose of the Arlington Schools to provide opportunities for continuous mental, physical, and moral growth of its students.
The Board recognizes that parent/guardian involvement is vital to achieve maximum educational growth for students participating in the District Title I program. Therefore, in compliance with federal law and the Oregon Department of Education guidelines, the district shall provide information regarding their schools participation in the Title I program and requirements.
The Superintendent shall ensure equivalence among schools in teachers, administration and other staff and in the provisions of the curriculum materials and instructional supplies.
The Board directs the Superintendent to ensure that each of the districts schools participating in the Title I program meet annually with parents/guardians. Parents/Guardians of participating students shall be informed of their right to be involved in the development of the district’s parental involvement policy, overall Title I plan and school-parent compact. The school-parent compact is inserted in this handbook. Each student and parent/guardian should sign and return the school-parent compact.
The district shall, to the extent practicable, provide full opportunities for the participation of parents/guardians with limited English proficiency or with disabilities, including information and school profiles in a language and form parents understand.
In cooperation with parents/guardians, the district’s Title I plan and school-parent compact shall be reviewed annually and updated periodically to meet the changing needs of parents/guardians and the school. The Title I plan will be distributed to parents/guardians of participating Title I students annually.
The new federal law, No Child Left Behind, requires the district to notify parents at the beginning of each school year that they may request information regarding the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teacher. Parents also have the right to request the qualifications of any paraeducators working with their child. Parents of limited English proficient students have the right to be notified of their child’s inclusion in language instruction programs no later than two weeks after a student’s placement in an ELL program. Copies of the district’s ELL plan are available upon request.
Schools that receive Title I funds must give timely notice to parents/guardians whose children have been taught for four or more weeks by a teacher who’s not “highly qualified” in core academic subject areas as defined by the state and federal government.
Districts must notify parents/guardians of each student in a “persistently dangerous” school about the unsafe school choice option. “Persistently dangerous” schools are identified by the state.
Schools that have been identified by the state for school improvement, that is failed to make adequate yearly progress for two years, must offer public school choice.
A student seeking enrollment in the district for the first time must meet all academic, age, immunization, tuition and other eligibility prerequisites for admission as set forth by law, Board policy, and administrative regulations. Students and their parents/guardians should contact the office for admission requirements.
The district may deny regular school admission to a student who is expelled from another school district for an offense that constitutes a violation of applicable state or federal weapons law and who subsequently becomes a resident of the district or who applies for admission to the district as a non-resident student.
Alternative educational services may be provided to resident students expelled for violation of applicable state or federal weapons law.
Students are informed of alternative programs available if they meet one of the following conditions:
1. Being or has been expelled.
2. Having repeated severe discipline problems.
3. Attending so erratically that he/she is not benefiting from the educational program.
4. Sixteen years old or older and giving written notice of intent to withdraw from the regular school program for reasons other than enrolling in another educational program.
5. The Alternative Learning Specialist at the Oregon Department of Education is the contact person for appeals regarding expulsions and alternative school placement. He/She may be contacted at 503-378-3600 ext. 2285.
The district has compiled with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) by having their buildings inspected by accredited inspectors and the development of a management plan for the control of this substance.
The management plan is available for public inspection in the district office.
The Superintendent serves as the district’s asbestos program manager and may be reached for further information.
A student’s conduct in assemblies must meet the same standard as in the classroom. A student who does not abide by the district’s Student Code of Conduct during an assembly shall be subject to disciplinary action. Students are expected to be attentive, quiet, and polite upon entering the assembly area. All students are required to attend assemblies unless permission to be absent is obtained from the office prior to the assembly.
The Oregon Revised Statutes (339.020) state: Except as provided in ORS 339.030 every person having control of any child between the ages of 7 and 18 years who has not completed the 12th grade, is required to send such child to and maintain such child in regular attendance at a public full-time school during the entire school term. Violation of the compulsory attendance law is a Class C infraction and is punishable by a citation up to $150. In addition, a parent/guardian who is not supervising his/her student by requiring school attendance may also be in violation of ORS 163.577 (1)(c). Failing to supervise a child is a Class A violation and punishable by a fine up to $600.
At Arlington Schools, all students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time for classes. There is a direct relationship between poor attendance and class failure. Students who have good attendance generally achieve higher grades, enjoy school more and are much more employable after leaving school. However, students can fail on the basis of performance, despite good attendance.
The Arlington School District policy on attendance is as follows: Students must be in attendance eighty-seven percent of the days enrolled in order to receive credit in a given class (62 days in the first semester and 69 days in the second semester).
Exemptions from Compulsory Attendance are provided by law (ORS 339.030).
ORS 339.065 states that an absence may be excused by the administration if the absence is caused by the pupil’s sickness, by the sickness of some member of the pupil’s family, by an emergency or, if satisfactory arrangements have been made in advance of the absence.
Arlington School District students maintain good attendance in the following ways:
1. Attend all classes regularly.
2. Report to all classes on time.
3. Check in at the office before going to class if you arrive late to school.
4. Check out at the office before leaving campus even if your parents pick you up.
5. Get appointments or trips pre-arranged. Bring a note to the office explaining the date, time, and reason for the absence prior to the absence.
6. Get all schoolwork to be missed ahead of time whenever possible.
7. Clear all absences within two (2)
days or the absence will be considered unexcused.
a) Absence Without Prior Arrangement: Upon return to school, a student should report to the Office with a note from the parent/guardian. The note should include the date, student’s name, date(s) and/or time of student absence, reason for absence, and parent/guardian signature. Students who are 18 and living on their own may write their own notes. Only these students may sign themselves in/out at the office with administrative approval.
b) Pre-arranged Absences: Pre-arranged excused absences may be approved providing a request from the parent/guardian is presented to the office at least one day in advance of the absence. The note should include the date, student’s name, date(s) and/or time the student will be absent, reason for the absence, and parent/guardian signature. The student will take a pre-arranged absence form to each teacher allowing them to be aware of the absence, and the student to get their assignments in advance. Students cannot be failing classes and all assignments are due upon return to school.
c) Perfect Attendance: Those students who do not miss school and are physically in class during the semester, except for school functions such as field trips, ASB activities, or sports will be excused from all final exams. Deaths in the family and situations where the school sends a student home because of injury shall not be counted against perfect attendance. Students receiving three or more unexcused tardies per semester will forfeit their perfect attendance and will be required to take finals. Students who are absent for any reason other than those stated above must take final exams. OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS count as an absence against perfect attendance. Students with perfect attendance shall be allowed to take final examinations in an attempt to improve their grades, if they choose.
8. As per state law (ORS 339.065) excused absences will only be given for:
a) Family emergency – determined by the administrator
b) Illness
c) Pre-arranged absence – determined by the administrator
d) School sponsored activities – participants will not be counted absent from class.
9. Make up all work on time required by the teacher.
a) Excused Absence: Student will have one day per day absent to complete and turn in work for full credit.
b)
Unexcused Absence:
The consequences of an unexcused absence will be determined at the
discretion of each individual teacher.
Consequences may include, but are not limited to any one or more of the
following:
1. A reduction of 3% of the final grade per unexcused absence.
2. A score of “zero” on missed assignments, quizzes, or exams.
3. Loss of 3% of the missed assignment, quizzes, or exams.
4. A loss of daily participation points.
5. Require exams or quizzes to be made up the day the student returns.
Teachers will include their expectations and consequences for unexcused absences in their course syllabi.
If it should become necessary to leave school during the school day, the student must check out of school by seeing the office secretary and gaining clearance from the administration. Failure to do so will constitute an unexcused absence, regardless of whether or not your parents/guardians are “aware”. Discipline will be administered as stated within the behavior management procedure. If parents/guardians wish to have a student excused during the school day, arrangements must be made with the administrator or his/her designee. The administrator will determine whether the reason is of sufficient cause to release the student, and to determine whether the absence will be excused.
STUDENTS WHO TURN UP MISSING DURING THE SCHOOL DAY AND WHO HAVE NOT FOLLOWED THE ABOVE POLICY FOR LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS WILL RECEIVE AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE FOR THE ENTIRE DAY.
1. Leaving campus without properly checking out through the Attendance Office.
2. Skipping class – Leaving class without permission.
3. Oversleeping.
4. Missing the bus.
5. Personal errands.
6. Family vacations that have not been pre-arranged.
7. Employment, job shadowing or apprenticeships during the instructional day that have not received prior approval from the administration.
8. SNEAK DAY – Absences from school for “sneak days” will be treated as truancy.
9. TRUANCY – A student who is absent from school or from any class without permission will be considered truant and will be subject to disciplinary action including detention, suspension, expulsion and ineligibility to participate in athletics or other activities.
Students are responsible for conducting themselves properly, in accordance with the policies of the district and the lawful direction of staff. The district has the responsibility to afford students certain rights as guaranteed under federal and state constitutions and statutes.
Arlington School District
has one general rule of behavior; that its members conduct themselves as good
citizens. The characteristics of good
school citizenship are:
1.
Regard for the rights
and privileges of others.
2.
Punctuality and
prepared for class.
3.
Care for the condition
and appearance of the grounds, buildings, and fixtures of the school.
4.
Respect for those in
authority.
A complete record of the
conduct of each student is maintained at the school. Unacceptable behavior is clearly spelled out in the Student
Management Policy. This policy and the
student/parent handbook will be reviewed yearly with students as part of the
advisor/advisee program.
Disrespectful,
disruptive, irregular attendance, and illegal activities are discouraged
through the assignment of consequences, which include loss of privileges,
parent/guardian conferences, detention and suspension. Among these activities are: repeated
unexcused absences, truancy, repeated tardiness, dress code violation, note
writing, inappropriate or obscene language, disrespect, disruptive behavior,
cheating, illegal behavior, harassment, physical violence, damage to school
property, behaviors that place others at risk, unprepared for class, display of
affection.
The following will always
result in suspension and, in some cases, expulsion: repeated violations, fighting, gang behavior, defiance of
authority, failure to serve detention, cheating on final exam/major project, any
violation aggravated by racially/sexually derogatory behavior, use of
drugs/alcohol, sale or supply of drugs/alcohol, possession of a weapon (state
law requires one year expulsion).
GENERAL CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS
The following rules of
general conduct are expected of all students:
A.
General Conduct:
1.
Teachers are to be
given proper respect and be addressed as Miss, Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and their last
name.
2.
The Student Management Policy is in effect whenever
you are under the auspices of Arlington Schools, including lunch (even off
campus) and any school activity.
3.
A student must attend
school the day of an after school function in order to participate in the
function unless he/she has prearranged his/her absence with the administrator
or his/her designee.
B.
In the halls:
1.
Pass quickly, quietly
and safely, but do not run.
2.
Refrain from showing
inappropriate action to others.
C.
In the classroom:
1.
Be in your seat by the
bell.
2.
Be orderly even if the
teacher is temporarily out of the room.
3.
Be prepared to begin
the lesson at once without borrowing pencils, books, paper, etc.
4.
Do not leave the room
without the teacher’s permission.
5.
Wait until the teacher
dismisses you. THE BELL NEVER
DISMISSES.
6.
Food and drink are
not allowed in class and cannot be purchased during class time.
7.
Personal property which disrupts class, such as a CD
Player, laser light, etc. may be taken by the teacher and turned over to the
office for parent/guardian notification.
D.
In assemblies:
1. Be attentive, quiet, and polite as soon as you enter
the assembly.
2. All students are required to attend assemblies
unless permission to be absent is obtained from the office prior to the
assembly.
ARLINGTON STUDENT MANAGEMENT POLICY
The teachers and staff at
Arlington Schools believe that students have the right to a safe, pleasant
environment in which to learn. It is
important that students be encouraged to conduct themselves in a manner that
will maintain such a climate that everyone is given the greatest opportunity to
achieve and succeed. When every person
in a school is doing their best, the school becomes an exciting and warm place
where every person is learning new things every single day.
In the classrooms,
hallways, lunchroom, or on the court or field, students make behavioral choices
every day. At Arlington Schools the
teachers and staff believe that people move toward personal maturity as they
make good behavioral choices and take responsibility for their actions. Behavioral choices that are mature and
responsible deserve acknowledgement.
Recognition of appropriate student behavior is important and may
include:
§
Nominations/Selection
as Student of the Month
§
Positive
recognition: including assemblies,
releases, breaks, pep assemblies, etc.
§
Verbal praise
§
Eligibility for
special prizes, outings, or field trips
§
Positive notes/phone
calls, acknowledgment to parents/guardians
Young adults make good
behavioral choices using three simple guidelines. Everyone in the school is encouraged to remember the phrase,
“Strive for excellence and help others to achieve this goal” as they actively
work on the following goals:
CODE OF CONDUCT
BE SUCCESSFUL
Always try – Do your best
– Manage yourself.
Students determined to be
successful come to class on time prepared to work and learn skills to help them
achieve their goals.
BE THOUGHTFUL OF OTHERS
Cooperate with other
people and treat them with respect.
Respect the property and rights of others. Everyone at Arlington Schools has the right to expect mutual
courtesy, respect, and a sense of self-worth.
BE LOYAL TO YOUR SCHOOL
Having pride in and
respecting yourself and others is a part of making Arlington Schools a
positive, good place to be.
Rules at Arlington
Schools are aimed at the goal of creating a school environment, which protects
every student’s rights to learn as well as every teacher’s rights to
teach. Rules should be clear and fair
and consistently enforced. Aside from
general school rules and these simple guidelines, teachers and classroom
instructors will state and post their classroom expectations. Members of the Associated Student Body and
parents/guardians are welcome to be part of the annual review process of the Student
Management Policy.
Most young adults are
able to act in a responsible, mature manner that does not interfere with the
educational rights of others. For this
reason, Arlington’s Student Management Policy is reviewed at the beginning of each school year and with students as
they enroll during the school year, so that students are fully aware of the
rules and can make good choices.
However, when inappropriate choices have been made, parents/guardians
are notified. Students who choose to
continue violating school rules face consequences for their behavior.
DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
Holding hands and walking
arm in arm are gestures of affection, which are widely accepted in public. Other affectionate behaviors in school or
other work settings are considered inappropriate. Intimate conduct such as kissing, sitting on laps, straddling
each other, fondling and the like are not appropriate in school or the
workplace. Such behaviors when referred
will result in parent notification and/or discipline.
GANG ACTIVITY/HATE GROUPS
Gang/Hate group activity
will not be allowed. Prohibited
activities include, but are not limited to:
the congregation of members, the solicitation or recruitment of members,
the possession of group paraphernalia and materials, the intimidation of
others, the advocacy of discrimination, and any other behavior which the school
administration finds disruptive such as the wearing of gang colors or insignia
and the use of language, code or gestures that provoke violence or seek to
advocate the purpose and objectives of such groups. Disciplinary action may include suspension and/or expulsion.
HAZING OR INITIATION
Initiation acts or other
action involving physical handling and/or verbal abuse of other students is not
permitted. Students involved in such
action will face possible suspension from school.
TARDINESS/UNPREPARED FOR CLASS
Student tardiness and
unpreparedness is an extreme disruption to the daily operation of classes. Students are advised that repeated
tardiness/unpreparedness in the same quarter will result in immediate
consequences and/or parent/guardian contact.
Consequences may include detention or suspension. Students later than 10 minutes to class will
be considered and marked absent.
VANDALISM
No person shall willfully
write, make marks or draw obscene pictures on the walls or any other part of
any schoolhouse or outbuildings, or furniture thereof, or deface or damage any
school building. The district school
board shall prosecute any person who violates this section.
WEAPONS
Students shall not bring,
possess, conceal or use a weapon on or at district property, activities under the
jurisdiction of the district or interscholastic activities administered by a
voluntary organization approved by the State Board of Education (i.e., Oregon
Schools Activities Association).
Weapons may include, but
are not limited to, dangerous weapons (any weapon, devise, instrument, material
or substance, which under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to
be used or threatened to be used is readily capable of causing death or serious
physical injury), firearm, destructive device (any device with an explosive
incendiary or poison gas component or any combination of parts either designed
or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device or
form which a destructive device may be readily assembled), knives, metal knuckles,
straight razors, noxious or irritating gases, poisons, unlawful drugs or other
items fashioned with the intent to use, sell, harm, threaten or harass
students, staff members, parents and patrons.
Replicas of weapons,
fireworks and pocketknives are also prohibited by Board policy. Exceptions to the district’s replicas
prohibition may be granted only with prior administrative approval for certain
curriculum or school-related activities.
Prohibited weapons,
replicas of weapons, fireworks and pocketknives are subject to seizure and/or
forfeiture.
Students found to have
violated the district’s zero-tolerance weapons policy (Board Policy JFCJ) shall
be expelled for a period of not less than one year. Administrators shall promptly notify the appropriate law enforcement
agency any time there is reasonable cause to believe violations have occurred
or when a student has been expelled for bringing, possessing, concealing or
using a dangerous or deadly weapon, firearm or destructive device. Parents/Guardians will be notified of all
conduct by their student that violates the weapons policy.
In accordance with the
federal Gun-Free School Zone Act, possession or discharge of a firearm in a
school is prohibited. A “school zone,”
as defined by federal law means, in or on school grounds or within 1,000 feet
of school grounds.
BUS REGULATIONS_______________________________________
The Arlington School
District provides bus transportation, or payments in lieu of transportation to
all students in the Arlington School District living more than one mile from
school. The local administrator or the
bus supervisor establishes bus routes.
Any request for a route change must be made to the bus supervisor, as
the driver does not have the authority to alter the bus route. The state regulations governing students
while riding school buses are posted on each school bus. Any violation of these rules may cause loss
of bus privileges.
Students are not allowed to use cell phones, pagers, or other communication devices except for emergencies, with permission of the administration on school premises during school hours. Students are not to have cell phones, pagers, or other communication devices in the classrooms at any time. During school hours cell phones, pagers, and other communication devices should be kept in the student’s locker or vehicle.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS_____________________________
Student clubs and activity organizations such as band, choir, drama, dance, Associated Student Body, GAA, Letterman’s Club, National Honor Society, and other school organizations or extracurricular activities may establish rules of conduct and consequences for misconduct for participants that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, the consequences specified by the district shall apply in addition to any consequence specified by the organization. (See Arlington High School Athletic and Extra-Curricular Activities Handbook for extra-curricular rules and regulations.)
COLLEGE VISITATION GUIDELINES_______________________
RELATING TO ATTENDANCE
Juniors are allowed one
day and seniors are allowed up to two days for college visitations. The following criteria must be met for the
absence to be considered school related:
1.
A staff member takes a
group of students on a college visit that has been pre-arranged with the
college/university.
2.
The student and
parent/guardian must set up the visit with the Arlington High School and the
college/university. The college must
set up the tour and documentation must be given to AHS from the
college/university.
3.
Only juniors and
seniors are eligible for college visitations to be considered a school related
absence in regard to the perfect attendance policy.
If a senior wishes to
exceed the two day limit for a college visitation, the absence will be excused
if they have pre-arranged, but it will not be considered a school related
absence in regard to the perfect attendance policy.
CONFERENCES______________________________________________
Regular conferences are
scheduled to review student progress.
Students and parents may
also expect to request a conference if the student is not maintaining passing
grades or achieving the expected level of performance; if the student is not
maintaining behavior expectations; and/or in any case the teacher considers
necessary.
The district encourages a
student or parent/guardian in need of additional information or with questions
or concerns to confer with the appropriate teacher, counselor or
administrator. A parent/guardian who
wishes to confer with a teacher may call the office for an appointment before
or after school, during the teacher’s preparation period, e-mail the teacher
(e-mail addresses are the teacher’s first name initial and the first seven
letters of the last name @arlington.k12.or.us – for example mkeown@arlington.k12.or.us),
or request that the teacher call the parent/guardian to arrange a mutually
convenient time for a conference.
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES & CREDIT BY EXAMINATION__
A student in grades 9-12
may earn a maximum of five units of credit by correspondence. He/She must receive at least a “C” in order
to receive credit for the course.
Approval must be obtained in advance from the guidance counselor.
Students in grades 9-12
may also receive credit by examination.
Students must receive at least a “C” or better on examination in order
to receive credit for the course.
Approval must be obtained in advance from the guidance counselor. Credit by examination will be granted by
semester only, and a student may earn no more than 4 units of credit by
examination.
ACADEMIC COUNSELING
Students are encouraged to talk with a district counselor, teachers and administrators in order to learn about the curriculum, course offerings and graduation requirements. Students who are interested in attending a college, university, training school, military, or some other advanced education should work closely with the school counselor. The counselor can also provide information about entrance examinations required by many colleges and universities, as well as information about financial aid and housing.
PERSONAL COUNSELING
The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address personal concerns.
DANCES/SOCIAL EVENTS___________________________________
All school events –
banquets, parties, positive recognition activities, and dances are under the
supervision of the student council or authorized student group and responsible to
the administrator. The student council
develops the dance calendar with the approval of the administration. The sponsoring organizations are responsible
for all arrangements including finances, entertainment, refreshments,
decorations, chaperons and clean-up.
These organizations may also set a dress code for such dances (i.e.,
“formal,” “semi-formal,” etc.) with the approval of the administration. The rules of good conduct and grooming shall
be observed for school dances and social events. Guests will be expected to observe the same rules as students
attending the events. The person
inviting the guest will share responsibility for the conduct of the guest. The following rules govern school dances and
parties:
1.
Dances could be held
on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights.
2.
The faculty class
advisor and parents/guardians (minimum 2) must chaperon each event.
3.
Students leaving the
building will not be allowed to re-enter during the event.
4.
All school sponsored
dances and social events are closed to all individuals except Arlington High
School students (for high school dances/events) or Arlington Middle School (for
middle school dances/events) students.
Guests may be invited for special high school dances subject to prior
approval by the school administration.
Such approval can be obtained only by filling out a dance guest pass
form (available at the office) and submitting it in a timely fashion and have
prior approval of the administration.
Arlington High School will not allow guests who are dropouts or older
than 20 years of age to attend as guests.
5.
Under no circumstances
will Middle/Junior High School students be allowed to attend High School dances
or social events nor will high school students be allowed to attend
Middle/Junior High School dances or social events.
6.
Organizations must
submit an activity request form to the Student Council at least two
weeks prior to the event.
7.
Except on special
occasions, all social events and dances will end by 11:00 p.m. Special occasions will be determined by the
administration.
DISCIPLINE/DUE PROCESS_________________________________
A student who violates
the Student Code of Conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action.
A student’s due process
rights will be observed in all such instances, including the right to appeal
the discipline decisions of staff and administration.
The district’s
disciplinary options include using one or more discipline management technique
including counseling by teachers, counselors, and administrators, detention,
suspension, expulsion, loss of driving privileges, and loss of right to apply
for driving privileges and removal to an alternative education program. Disciplinary measures are applied depending
on the nature of the offense. The age
and past pattern of behavior of a student will be considered prior to any
suspension or expulsion.
In addition, when a
student commits drug, alcohol and/or tobacco-related offenses or any other
criminal act, he/she may also be referred to law enforcement officials.
DETENTION
A student may be detained
outside of school hours on one or more days if the student violates the Student
Code of Conduct. The detention shall
not begin, however, until the student’s parents/guardians have been notified of
the reason for the detention and can make arrangements for the student’s
transportation on the day(s) of the detention.
FRIDAY/SATURDAY SCHOOL
A student may be assigned
to Friday/Saturday School for up to four hours (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) if the
student violates the Student Code of Conduct.
The Friday/Saturday School detention shall begin after parents/guardians
have been notified of the reason for the detention and can make arrangements
for the student’s transportation to and from the Friday/Saturday School.
SUSPENSION
A student may be suspended
from school for up to and including 10 school days for willful violations of
the Student Code of Conduct. The
district may require a student to attend school during non-school hours as an
alternative to suspension.
An opportunity for the
student to present his/her view of the alleged misconduct will be given. Each suspension will include a specification
of the reason(s) for the suspension, the length of the suspension, a plan for
readmission and an opportunity to appeal the decision.
Every reasonable and
prompt effort will be made to notify the parents/guardians of a suspended
student.
While under suspension, a
student may not attend after school activities and athletic events, be present
on district property nor participate in activities directed or sponsored by the
district.
Schoolwork missed by a
student while on suspension is due within one day after the student returns to
school.
EXPULSION
A student may be expelled
for severe or repeated violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
No student may be
expelled without a hearing unless the student’s parents/guardians or the
student, if 18 years of age, waives the right to a hearing, either in writing
or by failure to appear at a scheduled hearing.
An expulsion shall not
extend beyond one calendar year.
The district will provide
appropriate expulsion notification including expulsion hearing procedures,
student and parent/guardian rights, and alternative education provisions as
required by law. See alternative education
programs in this handbook.
DISCIPLINE OF DISABLED STUDENTS
A student being served by
an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) who engages in conduct which would
warrant suspension for a non-disabled student may be suspended for up to and
including ten consecutive school days for violations of the Student Code of
Conduct.
When a disabled student
is suspended more that ten consecutive school days or for more than ten
cumulative school days during a school year or is being expelled, the student’s
parents/guardians will be notified immediately (within 24 hours) of the
circumstances of the misbehavior and the time and location of the student’s IEP
team meeting addressing the infraction and its relationship to the disability.
The IEP team will
determine whether the misconduct is a manifestation of the student’s
disability. Should the IEP team
conclude the misconduct has no relationship to the student’s disability, the
student may be disciplined in the same manner, as would other students.
If the IEP team concludes
the misconduct is a consequence of the student’s disability, the team may
recommend alternative placement for the student. The district may not expel a disabled student or terminate
educational services for any behavior, which is a consequence of the
disability.
If the district
determines that the student’s behavior, which is related to his/her disability,
poses imminent danger to others and the parent/guardian refuses to agree to a
change of placement, the district may suspend the student for up to ten
consecutive school days or ten cumulative school days, to provide a general
planning and “cooling off” period. At
the end of the ten-day period the student shall be allowed to stay put in
his/her current school placement unless the district has obtained a hearings officer
or court order to change the student’s placement.
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL_____________________________
All aspects of
school-sponsored publications, including newspaper, video, yearbook, etc. are
completely under the supervision of the teacher and administration. Students may be required to submit such
publications to the administration for approval.
Written materials,
handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes or other visual or
auditory materials may not be sold, circulated or distributed on district
property by a student or a non-student without the approval of the
administration.
Materials not under the
editorial control of the district must be submitted to the administration for
review and approval before being distributed to students. Materials shall be reviewed based on
legitimate educational concerns. Such
concerns include whether the material is defamatory; age appropriate to the
grade level and/or maturity of the reading audience; poorly written,
inadequately researched, biased or prejudiced; not factual; or not free of
racial, ethnic, religious or sexual bias.
Materials including advertising that is in conflict with public school
laws, rules and/or Board policy, deemed inappropriate for students or may be
reasonably perceived by the public to bear the sanction or approval of the
school district will not be distributed.
If the material is not approved within three (3) days from the time it was submitted to the administration will be considered disapproved. The disapproval may be appealed to the Board at its next regular meeting when the individual shall have a reasonable period of time to present his/her viewpoint.
The district’s dress code is established to promote appropriate grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption, provide for a workplace environment, and avoid safety hazards. In addition to the district policy on dress and grooming, dress issues often constitute conflicts with district policy on sexual harassment and gangs. Such dress can, at times, for some students, create a hostile school environment. The following dress code seeks to create a more logical and useful set of guidelines for students and parents/guardians.
Responsibility for dress and grooming rests primarily with students and their parents. However, the district expects student dress and grooming to meet standards, which ensure that the following conditions do not exist:
1. Disruption or interference with the classroom learning environment;
2. Threat to the health and/or safety of the student concerned or of other students.
Students who represent the school in a voluntary activity may be required to conform to dress and grooming standards and may be denied the opportunity to participate if those standards are not met.
It is essential that the administration of the school have the authority to interpret and enforce the dress and grooming code. However, it shall be the responsibility of all staff members to send any violators of the dress and grooming code to the office. Students who willfully repeat violations of the dress code will be disciplined.
DRESS AND GROOMING CODE
In general, students
should dress in neat, clean appropriate clothing that does not disrupt the
educational process and protects the rights of others. This specifically includes the following:
1.
All items worn shall
be safe, both to the wearer and those around him/her. Dress and grooming shall be clean and in keeping with health, sanitary
and safety procedures. State law requires some kind of footwear with a hard
sole. Shoes must be worn at all
times. Sandals are acceptable, but
students wearing them do so at their own risk.
For the sake of cleanliness and good hygiene, it is recommended that
stockings or socks be worn at all times.
Flip flops and slippers are not acceptable.
2.
Dress and grooming
shall not be a disturbing influence to classes or the educational process. The following are examples of clothing that
are not acceptable at any time of the year:
See-through clothing, visible under garments, clothing worn above
mid-thigh, half shirts, jerseys or sweatshirts in bad taste, of immodest
nature, and any form of clothing that is dirty or slogans which are profane or
suggest the advertising of any form of drug, alcohol and/or tobacco, short
shorts, sweatpants, and P.E. type shorts.
3.
Clothing shall not be
permitted with emblems or printing that are indecent, profane, suggestive or in
poor taste.
4.
Students (male and
female) may wear hats in the high school building. No hats are to be worn in the classroom. Scarves and headbands may be worn as
appropriate.
5.
School issues uniforms
are not to be worn at any time except on game days.
6.
Spandex shorts will
not be worn unless worn under other shorts made out of another material.
7.
Hair and facial hair
must be kept clean and neatly trimmed.
8.
Jewelry, buttons and
other forms of ornamentation, which are distracting noises, espouse violence,
are obscene, suggest obscenity or call of an illegal act may not be worn.
Students
found to be in violation of these guidelines will be asked to conform
immediately and will be subject to disciplinary action according to the student
management policy. Be aware, however,
that violations of guidelines 1, 2, 3 and 8 may be a violation of the
District’s gang policy and could result in severe disciplinary action.
The
dress and grooming code listed here is to encourage students to dress in a
clean, safe and attractive manner so that all students can function in a normal
classroom atmosphere and be proud of their fellow students and their
school. The code is a guideline
established to exclude certain modes of dress and grooming in the belief that
to permit this conduct would lead to a substantial disruption of the educational
process within the school. It is the
hope of the administration that students and parents/guardians will cooperate
by complying with the school guidelines.
DRILLS AND OTHER EMERGENCY SIMULATIONS____________
Fire drills and/or
earthquake drills will be held monthly.
In case of a fire or earthquake drill, all students are to leave the
building immediately according to the evacuation procedure established for each
room in the school. WALK, DO NOT RUN.
Unauthorized use of the
fire extinguisher or fire alarm system is dangerous and illegal. Students tampering with fire equipment or
creating false alarms may be fined, suspended or expelled from school.
Other emergency drills or
simulations (i.e., bus evacuation, armed intruder, tsunami, chemical spill,
etc.) may be held periodically.
Oregon State Law ORS 474 and 475 prohibits the possession, use or sale of alcohol, narcotics, and habit-forming drugs. This obligates the school district to enforce a policy prohibiting the possession, use, sale or source of supply of alcohol, narcotics and habit-forming drugs (or look alikes) on or near the school grounds, or at any time students are going to or from school or while being transported to and from any school sponsored activity. Use of a drug authorized by medical prescription from a registered physician, and within the guidelines of the policy on medication, shall not be considered a violation of this rule.
The possession, selling and/or use of illegal and harmful drugs, alcohol and tobacco are strictly prohibited. This includes drug possession, drug paraphernalia, selling and/or use at school during the regular school day and/or at any district related activity, regardless of time or location and while being transported on district provided transportation. Students in violation of the district drug, alcohol and tobacco policy will be subject to disciplinary action and referral to law enforcement officials, as appropriate.
Students have the right to attend school in an environment conducive to learning. Since student drug, alcohol and tobacco use is illegal, harmful, and interferes with both effective learning and the healthy development of students and adolescents, the school has a fundamental legal and ethical obligation to prevent unlawful drug, alcohol and tobacco use and to maintain a drug-free educational environment.
The district’s drug, alcohol and tobacco curriculum will be age-appropriate, reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect current research.
Drug, alcohol and tobacco prevention instruction will be integrated in the district’s health education courses. Students not enrolled in health education shall receive such instruction through other designated courses. At least annually, all senior high school students shall receive such instruction. Instruction shall minimally meet the requirements set forth in Oregon Administrative Rules.
Intervention is defined as the identification and referral of students whose behavior is interfering with their potential success socially, emotionally, physiologically and/or legally as a result of prohibited drug, alcohol and tobacco use.
Any staff member who has reason to suspect a student is in possession of, or under the influence of unlawful drugs, alcohol, other intoxicants or tobacco on district property, on a school bus or while participating in any district sponsored activity, whether on district property or at sites off district property, will escort the student to the office or designated area and will report the information to the school administrator or his/her designee.
The school administrator will:
1. Call the police if deemed appropriate;
2. Call the parents/guardians for a meeting;
3. Discuss the incident with the student, parents if available and police if contacted;
4. Impose the penalty for violating using due process procedures;
5. Provide information to parents/guardians about resources that offer treatment or assistance for young people suffering from drug, alcohol or tobacco related problems.
Students possessing, using and/or selling unlawful drugs, alcohol, other intoxicants and tobacco on district property, in district vehicles, at district sponsored activities on or off district grounds shall be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion. Students may also be referred to law enforcement officials.
An aggressive intervention program to eliminate drug, alcohol and tobacco use has been implemented throughout the district. As part of this program, an age-appropriate drug, alcohol and tobacco prevention curriculum will be taught annually to all students.
The program also includes staff training in district procedures for the identification and referral of students whose behavior is interfering with their potential success socially, emotionally, physiologically and/or legally as a result of illegal drug, alcohol and tobacco use.
Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact the school counselor for information on district and community resources available to assist students in need.
In cases of sudden illness or injury to a student or staff member, school staff will give first aid. Further medical attention to students is the parents’ responsibility, or of someone the parents designate in case of emergency. School staff are charged with providing for the immediate care of ill or injured persons within his/her area of responsibility.
Staff members shall report self-administered first aid treatment to an immediate supervisor.
In each school, procedures for handling health emergencies will be established and made known to the staff. Each school and school vehicle will be equipped with appropriate first-aid supplies and equipment. All employees are expected to know where first-aid supplies and equipment are kept in their work areas.
Designated employees in each building shall hold current first-aid cards. In compliance with Oregon Administrative Rules, each school shall have at a minimum, at least one staff member with a current first-aid card for every 60 students enrolled. Names of the designated employees will be posted. At least one coach at each level of sport will be certified.
Whenever it is necessary to delay the opening of school because of weather conditions or other conditions, everyone will be notified by telephone. However, it will be automatically understood that this means LATE OPENING. Late opening means that school will begin exactly two (2) hours later than normal. Buses will run exactly TWO (2) hours behind schedule in order that you will be able to judge your timing. There will be no rumors and no confusion.
In the event of bad weather or other conditions that would require the school to be closed staff and parents/guardians will be notified by 8:00 a.m. Remember that school will be held unless you receive the second notification. Only bus drivers or school secretaries will be making these calls. If students or unidentified people call it is an unofficial notification.
Examples of procedure:
1. The original call to staff and parents/guardians by 8:00 a.m. automatically means LATE OPENING;
2. There will be no second call for Late Opening. All students know that they will be on their bus exactly two hours behind their normal time;
3. In case that school must be cancelled – a second call will be made prior to 10:00 a.m. to inform teachers and parents/guardians that school is closed for the day.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES____________________
All students, regardless
of their ability levels are encouraged to take part in extra-curricular
activities and the many worthwhile learning experiences that involvement in
student athletics and activities has to offer.
ATHLETIC CODE
The athletic code is in
accordance with policy and consistent with the suggested policy of the
O.S.A.A. This code shall apply to all
students participating in the interscholastic athletic programs sponsored by
the Arlington School District. Any
athlete not conforming to the letter of the code shall be subject to
disciplinary action as prescribed.
Students, who participate
in the Arlington High School Athletic program, including cheerleaders, will be
provided with a current copy of the Arlington High School Athletic and
Extra-Curricular Activities Handbook.
The handbook includes all of the Athletic and Extra-Curricular Activities
rules and regulations for participation.
All paperwork,
including physical, medical information form, proof of insurance and drug and
alcohol policy signed by the student and his/her parent/guardian must be turned
in to the coach or office before the first practice and the Pay to Participate and /ASB
fees must be paid in full before
the first contest.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
Students must have a
physical examination performed by a physician, licensed by the Oregon State
Board of Medical Examiners in grades 5, 7, 9 and 11 or 6, 8, 10, and 12 prior
to practice and competition in athletics.
The examination should be performed no earlier than May 1 of the
preceding school year. The physical
examination is the responsibility of the parents/guardian or student and is to
be paid for by the parents/guardians or student.
Record of the examination
shall be kept on file at the school and shall be reviewed by the coach prior to
the start of any sport season. Students
shall not participate without a record of passing the examination.
ATHLETIC POLICY
Students in
Interscholastic Activities are expected to conform to the District Student
Conduct Code and Interscholastic Activities Policy Handbook. An athlete is expected to be loyal to
his/her team, his/her school and his/her community. An athlete is expected to follow all of the school rules to
maintain a certain level of educational excellence in order to be eligible to
participate in Interscholastic Activities.
The Board recognizes the need for student fees to fund certain school activities that are not sufficiently funded by the district.
No student will be denied an education because of his/her inability to pay supplementary fees.
No student, however, is exempt from charges for lost or damaged books, locks, materials, supplies and equipment.
All student fees and charges, both optional and required, will be listed and described annually in student/parent handbook, or in some written form, and distributed to each student. Students will be advised of the due dates for such fees and charges as well as of possible penalties for failure to pay them.
In accordance with the law and with district policy, certain education records may be withheld if fees and fines are not paid.
The following fees will be charged to Arlington High School Students:
Student Body Fee Grades 9-12 $ 7.50
Yearbook Grades 9-12 $23.00
Textbook/Towel Fee Grades 5-12 $15.00
Pay to Participate Grades 9-12 $50.00 (Per sport -- $150 maximum per family/per sport - $250 per family/per year)
Grades 5-8 $25.00 (Per sport -- $150 maximum per family/per sport - $250 per family/per year)
The Board recognizes the value of special activities to the total school program. Further, students need to be allowed to participate in and profit from carefully planned learning experiences that fall outside the normal school program/day.
The district provides school bus transportation to approved and sponsored activities and athletic contests. Students who participate in these activities as a class or team will be expected to ride the school bus to and from the activity. The one exception to this rule is that a student may be excused to his/her parent/guardian or grandparent on the return trip. Release to any other person or relative will be allowed only in extraordinary circumstances that have been approved of in advance following a written request by a parent/guardian.
Written parental permission must be obtained for each trip. The signed form showing parental/guardian approval and acknowledgement of student conduct guidelines will be maintained on file for a period of one year.
The administration will develop procedures and guidelines to insure both students and adult’s supervision are acquired with the standards of conduct while representing the district.
All out-of-state travel must have prior Board approval. Such approval is predicted on the acceptable plan for travel arrangements, parental involvement, orientation of students and supervisor and support of the administration.
FOREIGN
EXCHANGE STUDENTS___________________________
The school may enroll a maximum of 20% of students from other nations from those exchange programs officially recognized by the Board.
Admission of exchange students will be made only at the beginning of a semester. All arrangements for admission in the fall semester must be concluded by August 1, prior to the beginning of the school term. All placement arrangements for admission to the second semester must be completed by December 1.
Foreign exchange students admitted to school under the F-1 visa status will be required to pay tuition as required by law and at the rate established by the Board. Exchange students attending school under a J-1 visa will be granted a tuition waiver.
Foreign exchange students may be awarded an honorary high school diploma under satisfactory completion of the school’s prescribed course of study.
Any solicitations and/or activities that generate moneys by students and staff (car washes, bake sales, raffles, etc.) must have prior approval of the Administration and Junior Class Advisor during the school year. Fundraisers during the summer months require approval of the Administration. Groups should fill out a Facilities Use form in addition to the Fund Raising Form if school facilities will be used.
Any solicitations for money that does not provide a service must be proposed in writing to the Board.
The presence of gangs and the violent activities and drug abuse that often accompany gang involvement can cause a substantial disruption of school/district activities and a student’s ability to meet curriculum and attendance requirements.
A gang is defined as any group that identifies itself through the use of a name, unique appearance or language including hand signs, the claiming of geographical territory or the espousing of a distinctive belief system that frequently results in criminal activity.
In its effort to reduce gang involvement, the district encourages students to become involved with district sponsored clubs, organizations and athletics and to discuss with staff and district officials the negative consequences of gang involvement and to seek the assistance of counselors for additional guidance and district and community resources that offer support to students and alternatives to gang involvement.
No student on or about district property or any district activity shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge or any other such symbol evidencing gang membership or affiliation. (See Dress and Grooming Policy)
No student shall use any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (gestures, handshakes, etc.) signifying gang membership or affiliation.
No student shall solicit other students for membership in any gangs nor commit any other illegal act or other violation of district policies.
Students in violation of the district’s gang policy will be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion.
The key organization of the school is the Arlington High School Associated Student Body (ASB). It sponsors many school activities. The governing body of the association is the Student Council. Any student wishing to run for office must have at least a 2.0 GPA and passing all classes in which the student is currently enrolled. (See ASB Constitution and Athletics Eligibility Requirements policy above)
All students must purchase a student body card, become a member of the Arlington Associated Student Body Association and be enrolled as a full time student in order to participate in school activities (i.e., activities/athletics).
After the ninth grade, students are classified by grade level according to the number of units of credit earned toward graduation.
Units of Credit Earned |
Grade Placement |
|
5 |
Sophomore |
|
10 |
Junior |
|
16 |
Senior |
Punctual and regular attendance is essential to the academic success of students. District staff may consider a student’s attendance in determining a grade reduction or credit denial, though attendance will not be the sole criterion used. Such decisions will not be based on non-attendance due to religious reasons, a student’s disability or an excused absence as determined by district policy. (See Attendance policy)
At the beginning of each school year or course, teachers will inform students and parents/guardians how attendance and class participation are related to the instructional goals of the subject or course.
Due process will be provided to any student whose grade is reduced or credit denied for attendance rather than for academic reasons.
The Board believes that the completion of high school graduation requirements from the Arlington School District is an achievement that improves the community as well as the individual. The Board wishes to recognize that achievement in a publicly celebrated exercise. Accordingly, appropriate graduation programs will be planned by the administration on the date selected by the Board.
The district’s valedictorian(s), salutatorian(s) and/or others at the discretion of the administration may be permitted to speak as part of the district’s planned graduation program. All such speeches will be reviewed and approved in advance by the administration.
All students in good standing who have successfully completed the requirements for a high school diploma, modified diploma or certificate of attendance may participate in graduation exercises.
Graduation dress and grooming requirements will be established by the administration and reviewed with the graduates prior to graduation. Students must wear appropriate clothing under the graduation gowns. Caps will not be decorated and tassels may not have other items attached to them without Class Advisor’s approval. Students may wear jewelry or carry personal symbols if they are in compliance with the school dress and grooming code and school rules. National Honor Society students and honor students may wear honor cords as allowed by the administration.
While graduation is a celebration of achievement, the ceremony should be conducted with the respect and dignity that should be expected from such an occasion. Students should refrain from displays that distract from the occasion such as making inappropriate noises, bring noise makers, bubble gum, bubble blowers, squirt guns, canned string, etc.
A student has a right to a high school diploma if they have completed all the graduation requirements. Participation in the graduation ceremony is a privilege. Inappropriate conduct, violation of school rules, district policies and/or administrative rules, or state and/or federal law by a student may eliminate the student from participating in the graduation ceremony.
Beginning with the Class of 2004 and 2005, the following graduation requirements will be implemented:
Course Requirements |
Requirements for
a Diploma |
Requirements for
a Standards Diploma |
|
Language
Arts |
4
Credits (1 must be in written composition) State
Test Score of 225 or better in Reading/Literature |
1)
C grade or better in Language Arts 9 and 10 2)
State Test Score of 239 or better in Reading/Literature 3)
State Test Score of 40 or better in Writing |
|
Mathematics |
2
Credits State
Test Score of 225 or better in Mathematics |
1)
C grade or better in Algebra I and Geometry 2)
State Test Score of 239 or better in Mathematics 3)
State Test Score of 36 or better in Math Problem Solving |
|
Science |
2
Credits |
1)
C grade or better in Physical Science and Biology 2)
State Test Score of 239 or better |
|
Social
Science |
4.5
Credits (1 must be in World History, U.S. History, World Geography, and
Civics and 0.5 must be in Economics) |
1)
C grade or better in World Geography and World History |
|
Health
Education |
1
Credit |
|
|
Physical
Education |
1
Credit |
|
|
Applied
Arts, Fine Arts, and/or Second Language |
1
Credit (in any one or a combination) |
|
|
Sophomore
Experience |
0.5
Credit |
|
|
Personal
Finance |
0.5
Credit |
|
|
Senior
Project |
0.5
Credit |
|
|
Electives |
6
Credits |
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL |
23
Credits |
|
Beginning with the Class of 2006, the following graduation requirements will be implemented:
Graduation Requirements |
Requirements for
a Diploma |
Requirements for
a Standards Diploma |
|
Language
Arts |
4
Credits (1 must be in written composition) State
Test Score of 229 or better in Reading/Literature |
4)
C grade or better in Language Arts 9 and 10 5)
State Test Score of 239 or better in Reading/Literature 6)
State Test Score of 40 or better in Writing |
|
Mathematics |
2
Credits State
Test Score of 229 or better in Mathematics |
4)
C grade or better in Algebra I and Geometry 5)
State Test Score of 239 or better in Mathematics 6)
State Test Score of 36 or better in Math Problem Solving |
|
Science |
2
Credits |
3)
C grade or better in Physical Science and Biology 4)
State Test Score of 239 or better |
|
Social
Science |
4.5
Credits (1 must be in World History, U.S. History, World Geography, and Civics
and 0.5 must be in Economics) |
2)
C grade or better in World Geography and World History |
|
Health
Education |
1
Credit |
|
|
Physical
Education |
1
Credit |
|
|
Applied
Arts, Fine Arts, and/or Second Language |
1
Credit (in any one or a combination) |
|
|
Personal
Finance |
1
Credit |
|
|
Senior
Project |
0.5
Credit |
|
|
Electives |
6
Credits |
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOTAL |
23
Credits |
|
|
|
|
|
Seniors who transfer into the district after the first semester of the senior year is completed will be exempted from the Sophomore Experience and Senior Project Credit Requirement, but they must have a total of 23 Credits or more to graduate. The Senior Project requires 20 hours of community service, a job shadowing/mentoring experience, a written term paper and an oral presentation in order to receive the 0.5 credit.
Students must meet all attendance requirements established by the State of Oregon and the Arlington School District.
An alternative diploma (i.e., certificate of completion, certificate of attendance, or modified diploma) may be awarded to students who have met some, but not all, of the district’s minimum graduation requirements. Alternative diplomas will be awarded based on individual student needs and achievements. The district will determine the minimum units of credit required for an alternative diploma.
Students are not to be involved in any type of activity in the weight room unless there is staff supervision. Students using the gym must remove their shoes or change into gym shoes. Students caught on the floor with inappropriate footwear may forfeit their gym privileges.
Homework is an extension of instructional time and is intended to provide students meaningful feedback as they practice, reinforce, and apply specific learning outcomes. The amount assigned will vary depending upon the course taken and the grade level of the student. Homework assignments promote self-directed learning and a sense of personal responsibility.
Students are expected to carefully complete all homework assignments according to expectations, giving serious attention to the quality and timeliness of their work. Students will make homework a priority.
Parents/Guardians should provide an environment that is conducive to study and learning, reinforce good study habits, prioritize homework, and communicate with teachers when questions concerning homework or academic achievement arise.
Teachers will base learning assignments on specific learning outcomes as well as student needs. They will clarify the purpose of homework assignments and give careful consideration to the demands on student time, yet expecting schoolwork to be a priority. Homework will be evaluated in a timely fashion using announced expectations, and in a manner that provides accurate assessment of student skills, abilities and knowledge. Teachers will also attempt to keep parents/guardians informed of the amount and kinds of homework required.
A student must be enrolled in five graded classes to be eligible for the Honor Roll. Honor Roll students must have a 3.5-4.0 GPA. Honor Roll Honorable Mention students must have a 3.0-3.49 GPA. Honor Roll and Honor Roll Honorable Mention lists will be submitted to the local newspapers for publication after grades are posted for each semester.
Proof of immunization must be presented prior to the time of initial enrollment in school or within ten (10) days of transfer to the district. Proof consists of a signed “Certificate of Immunization Status” for documenting whether evidence of immunization or a religious and/or medical exemption.
Although HIV, HBV, HCV and AIDS are serious illnesses, the risk of contracting the disease in school is extremely low and generally limited to situations where non-intact skin or mouth, eye or other mucous membranes would be exposed to blood or any body fluids contaminated with blood from an infected person.
Since any such risk is serious, however, the district requires that staff and students approach infection control using standard precautions. That is, each student and staff member is to assume all direct contact with human blood and body fluids is regarded as known to be infectious for HIV, HBV, HCV AIDS and/or other infectious diseases.
If the district is informed that a student is HIV, HBV, HCV or AIDS infected, the district is prohibited by law from releasing information unless the infected student or parent/guardian gives permission for such release.
If a student or parent/guardian wishes to divulge such information and continues attending school, the district will meet with the infected student, parent/guardian, and/or representative to develop appropriate procedures.
Parents/Guardians of students with a medical diagnosis of HIV deemed special risk by the student’s health care provider as well as parents/guardians of any student with AIDS are required to notify the Superintendent of the student’s infection in order for the student to be granted permission to continue to attend school. Failure to do so will result in an order by the Oregon Health Division or local health department excluding the student from school or the parent/guardian may voluntarily withdraw the student from school. In either case, students and parents/guardians will be notified of alternative education programs.
An age-appropriate plan of instruction about infections/diseases including HIV, HBV, HCV and AIDS has been included as an integral part of the district’s health curriculum. Any parent/guardian may request that his/her student be excused from that portion of the instructional program required by Oregon law by contacting the administration for additional information and procedures. Students of parents/guardians with questions about the district HIV, HBV, HCV, and AIDS health education program should contact the administration.
At the beginning of the school year, the district will make available to students and parents/guardians a low cost student accident insurance program. Parents/Guardians are responsible for paying premiums (if coverage is desired) and for submitting claims through the district office. The district shall not be responsible for costs of treating injuries or assume liability for any other costs associated with an injury.
Before participating in school sponsored athletics/cheerleading, students and parents/guardians must have purchased the student accident insurance or show proof of insurance.
Student lockers are the property of the school district and may be opened and searched at any time by the administrator or by staff members designated by the administrator. Such a search does not require prior student notification if such action is deemed reasonable by the administration. Private locks are not authorized and will be cut off if found. Items belonging to a student, which are unlawful, or are in violation of school policy may be seized. When items are seized, students will be notified that a search occurred and of what items were seized.
Students may decorate the inside of their lockers only. No decorations regarding drugs, sex, alcohol, tobacco, or any inappropriate items may be used. Students shall not have personal decorations, signs or items on the outside of lockers unless approved by the administration. Additionally, students may not post personal signs or decorations on school property unless approved by the administration. Students may post campaign signs during student body election week.
Students shall use lockers to store books and supplies. Students should not put personal bags, books, etc. in the hall way, on benches or on shelves in the hall. Items left in the hall, on benches, or shelves in the hall may be picked up and removed by the custodian or administration. Hallways shall be kept clear at all times.
Money and other valuables should not be kept in lockers, restrooms or dressing rooms. If the item cannot be kept on your person or left at home, consult the office. Some valuables are not allowed in class.
Any articles found in the school or on district grounds should be turned into the school office. Unclaimed articles will be disposed of at the end of the school year.
|
|
Breakfast |
Reduced |
Lunch |
Reduced |
Adult |
$2.50 |
|
$3.25 |
|
|
K-8 Students |
$1.25 |
$0.30 |
$1.75 |
$0.40 |
|
K-8 Students – Extra Entrée |
|
|
$2.25 (includes regular lunch) |
|
|
9-12 Students |
$1.25 |
$0.30 |
$2.25 |
$0.40 |
|
Extra Milk |
$0.30 |
|
$0.30 |
|
A nutritious breakfast and Class “A” hot lunch with milk are served daily in the elementary school. Students who wish to bring their own lunch may purchase milk separately or they may bring their own beverage. All students who eat breakfast at school or a lunch of any kind are required to eat in the cafeteria or designated area.
The district participates in the National School Lunch, School Breakfast Commodity and Special Milk Programs and offers free and reduced-price meals based on a student’s financial need. Additional information may be obtained in the school office.
Media representatives may interview and photograph students involved in instructional programs and school activities, including athletic events. Information obtained directly from students does not require parental/guardian approval prior to publication.
Parents/Guardians who do not want their student interviewed or photographed should direct their student accordingly.
District employees may release student information only in accordance with applicable provisions of the education records law and Board policies governing information and personally identifiable information.
Parent/guardian need to complete an Authorization for Medication Administration by School Personnel form if they wish the district to administer medication.
Written instructions of the physician are required for all requests to administer prescription medication. Such instructions must include the following information: name of the student, name of the medication, dosage, route, frequency of administration, and any special instruction. A prescription label meets the requirements for written instructions from the physician, if the information above is included.
All medication to be administered by the district is to be brought to school by the parent/guardian in its original container. The district will dispose of medication not picked up by the parent/guardian at the end of the school year.
Students in grade 9-12 are permitted to self-medicate prescription and nonprescription medication upon written request by the parent/guardian.
All medication must be kept in its appropriately labeled, original container. The student’s name is to be affixed to non-prescription medication.
Students may have in their possession only the amount of medication needed for that school day. Sharing or borrowing medication is strictly prohibited.
Permission to self-medicate may be revoked if the student is found to be in violation of these requirements and subject to disciplinary action.
Contact the school office for additional information and forms.
The administration must first approve signs, banners, or posters that a student wishes to display. Signs, banners, and/or posters displayed without authorization will be removed. Any student who posts printed material without prior approval shall be subject to disciplinary action. All locker signs must be AHS sprit signs, only. No hand-held signs will be allowed at ballgames. (See Lockers policy above)
Students may be excused from a state-required program or learning activity for reasons of religion, disability or other reasons deemed appropriate by the district.
An alternative program or learning activity for credit may be provided.
All such requests should be directed to the administration by the parent/guardian in writing and include the reason for the request.
All student records at Arlington High School will be handled in the manner prescribed by the Arlington School District Record Policy. The district policy is in compliance with previously established federal and state guidelines and is available in the school office upon request.
The following types of information shall be known as directory information and will be released unless a specific request that it not be released is made by a parent/guardian or student of consenting age (18); the student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, height, weight and grade of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received and the most recent previous educational agency and institution attended by the student. Student pictures will be allowed in school publications (i.e., school newspaper, yearbook, newsletters) unless specific request that it not be allowed is made by a parent/guardian or student of consenting age.
Arlington High School grades are reported on a semester reporting basis. Grades are reported on the high school website, HonkerNet. Parents/Guardians are provided with a student code that allows parents to access their student’s grades and attendance through the Internet. Teachers will update the grades frequently. Parents/Guardians who do not have access to the Internet may contact the school and request progress reports on their students.
Quarterly reports will be provided at the end of each nine weeks, but transcript grades are recorded in half and full unit credits (i.e., semester grading system). If work is exceptional or below a student’s ability, a conference with the parent/guardian will be requested by the teacher. High school conferences will be held at the end of the first, second, and third nine-week grading periods.
Students in grades 9-12 will be promoted or retained in accordance with state and district graduation requirements. (See GRADE CLASSIFICATION Policy above)
The School Board feels that it is important for teachers to share information with parents/guardians as to the student’s achievement and progress. The following guidelines in reporting student progress should be followed:
1. Parents/Guardians will be contacted weekly for any student earning a D or F;
2. Parents/Guardians will be contacted as soon as possible when a student’s performance and/or attitude becomes unsatisfactory or shows marked or sudden deterioration;
3. Grades and/or portfolio content assessment will be based upon academic performance. Grades will not be used for disciplinary purposes;
4. At comparable levels, the school system will strive for consistency in grading and reporting except when this consistence is inappropriate for certain classes or certain students;
5. When no grades are given, but the student is evaluated in terms of progress, the school staff will provide a realistic appraisal of the student’s standing in relation to his/her peers;
6. The staff will be able to explain the meaning of marks and symbols used to reflect student performance upon request.
The Board seeks to assure a climate in the schools, which is appropriate for institutions of learning and which assure the safety and welfare of personnel and students. School officials may, under appropriate conditions, search the person and the personal property, including the facility or property provided by the school. School officials may seize any property deemed injurious or detrimental to the safety and welfare of students and personnel if school officials have reasonable suspicion to believe an illegal act or a violation of school rules and regulations is being committed or is about to be committed.
A search of a student’s person may be conducted when there is reasonable suspicion to believe the particular student is concealing evidence of an illegal act or school violation.
Searches will not be excessively intrusive in light of the age, sex, maturity of the student and nature of the infraction. Strip searches are prohibited by the district.
Illegal items or other possessions reasonably determined by school officials to be a threat to the safety or security of others may be seized by school officials. Items found which are evidence of a violation of law, policy, regulation, school rule or the Student Code of Conduct may be seized and students may be disciplined.
Other items, which are being used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process, may be temporarily removed from the student’s possession by school officials.
General search of school properties including, but not limited to lockers and desks may occur at any time. (See LOCKERS policy above)
At the time school equipment is assigned to students for their use, students will be informed of the conditions for the use of such equipment and of the intent of school personnel to conduct routine searches.
Should law enforcement officials find it necessary to question students during the school day or during periods of extracurricular activities, the administration or designee will make an effort to notify the parent/guardian of the situation.
Parents/Guardians are advised that in suspected child abuse cases, child agencies and/or law enforcement officials may exclude district personnel from the investigation procedures and may prohibit the district from contacting parents/guardians.
The district is required by law to inform parents/guardians/students about the district use of the student Social Security Numbers. The following is provided for parent/guardian/student information:
Providing student Social Security Number (SS#) is voluntary. If it is provided to the school district, the district will use the SS# for record keeping, research, and reporting purposes only. The school district will not use the SS# to make any decision directly affecting the student or any other person. The SS# is not to be given to the general public. No student will be denied any rights as a student for not providing the SS#. Providing the SS# means that the parent/guardian/student consents to the use of the SS# in the manner described.
The school district and the Oregon Department of Education may also match the SS# with records from other agencies as follows:
1. Oregon State System Colleges, private colleges, community colleges, and/or vocational schools which require SS# for financial aid;
2. Oregon Department of Education uses information gathered from the Oregon Employment Division to learn about education, training, and job market trends.
The SS# will be used only for statistical purposes as listed above. State and federal law protects the privacy of your records.
Students in grades 3 - 10 are required to take the state or district standards tests unless they are exempted in writing by parents/guardians. Students on IEP’s will have their district and state testing requirements identified within their IEP’s as required by law. Some students may qualify to take “Challenge” state standards tests. The school will communicate with parents/guardians about what state and district tests their students will be taking prior to the testing period. Students in the 11th and/or 12th grade may continue to take the state standards tests in order to earn a CIM and/or CAM.
A student or parent/guardian who has a complaint concerning a classroom/teacher issue should first bring the matter to the appropriate teacher. If the outcome is not satisfactory, the student or parent/guardian may file a written, signed complaint with the Superintendent within 15 calendar days following the conference with the teacher. The Superintendent will investigate the complaint and render a decision. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision of the Superintendent, he/she may appeal to the Board in care of the Superintendent within ten (10) calendar days following the receipt of the Superintendent’s decision in writing. The matter can be brought to the next Board meeting. The Superintendent will inform the Board of the situation before the meeting and make sure that the person the complaint is against knows it will be discussed at the Board meeting. Board decisions are final.
A student and/or parent/guardian with a complaint regarding possible discrimination of a student should contact the school administration. Discrimination must be based on race, religion, color, national origin, disability or marital status providing education or access to benefits of education services, activities and programs in accordance with federal law. (See Equal Educational Opportunity above) All discrimination complaints will be investigated in a timely fashion. The administration will report the outcome of the investigation to the student and parent/guardians. If student and/or parents/guardians are not satisfied with the outcome of the investigation, they may file a discrimination complaint in writing with the Superintendent. The written complaint must describe the discrimination, explain how the results of the investigation did not resolve the discrimination, and provide a recommendation to resolve the discrimination. The Superintendent will within ten (10) school days respond to the written complaint. If the complainant is not satisfied with the Superintendent’s response, the complainant may request the complaint to be heard at the next Board meeting in writing through the Superintendent. The matter can be brought to the next Board meeting. The Superintendent will inform the Board of the situation before the meeting and make sure that any persons involved in the discrimination complaint knows it will be discussed at the Board meeting.
Any resident of the district or parent of a student attending the Arlington schools may make an appeal or complaint alleging violation of the district’s compliance with an educational standard as provided by the State Board of Education. Persons who feel that there is a violation of educational standards should follow the following procedures:
1. Inform the Superintendent in writing of the complaint. The Superintendent shall respond in writing within five (5) working days;
2. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision of the Superintendent, he/she may appeal to the Board in care of the Superintendent within ten (10) calendar days following the receipt of the Superintendent’s decision in writing. The matter can be brought to the next Board meeting. The Superintendent will inform the Board of the situation before the meeting.
3. After exhausting local procedures or 45 or more days after filing a written complaint with the district (whichever occurs first), any complainant may make a direct appeal to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Complaints by student or parents/guardians about instructional materials should first seek to resolve the complaint through discussions with the teacher. If the informal complaint is not resolved, complaints by student or parents/guardians about instructional materials should be directed to the Superintendent in writing. All instructional materials complaints must state the reason(s) for the complaint, how the complainant would like to see the matter resolved, and be signed.
A reconsideration committee will be appointed by the Superintendent and will review the material and forward a recommendation to the Superintendent for appropriate action and notification to the complainant. A copy of the committee’s recommendation and justification will be forwarded to the complainant together with the Superintendent’s written decision.
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision of the Superintendent, he/she may appeal to the Board in care of the Superintendent within ten (10) calendar days following the receipt of the Superintendent’s decision in writing. The matter can be brought to the next Board meeting. The Superintendent will inform the Board of the situation before the meeting and make sure that any staff involved with the instructional materials knows it will be discussed at the Board meeting. Board decisions are final.
Sexual harassment by staff and/or students is strictly prohibited in the district. District includes district facilities, district premises and non-district property if the student or employee is at any district-sponsored, district-approved, or district-related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events where students are under the control of the district or where the employee is engaged in district business.
Sexual Harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature that creates a hostile environment.
The administration has the responsibility for investigations concerning sexual harassment. All complaints shall be investigated. The investigator shall be a neutral party having had no involvement in the complaint presented.
STEP 1 Any sexual harassment complaint shall be presented in writing to the Superintendent. It should include the specific nature of the sexual harassment and corresponding dates.
STEP 2 The Superintendent or his/her designee shall promptly investigate the complaint with all concerned parties within five (5) working days after the receipt of the complaint. The district official conducting the investigation shall notify the student and the student’s parents/guardians in writing when the investigation is concluded.
STEP 3 If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision of the Superintendent or his/her designee, he/she may appeal to the Board in care of the Superintendent within ten (10) working days following the receipt of the Superintendent’s decision in writing. The Board shall, within 20 working days, conduct a hearing at which time the complainant shall be given an opportunity to present the complaint. The Board shall provide a written decision to the complainant within ten (10) working days following the completion of the hearing.
STEP 4 If the complaint is not satisfactorily settled, an appeal may be made to the Regional Civil Rights Director, US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, Region X, 915 2nd Ave., Room 3310, Seattle, WA. 98174-1099. Direct appeal may be filed with an enforcement agency at the time.
If the complaint is against the Superintendent, the complaint will begin with Step 3.
Confidentiality will be maintained. The educational assignments or study environment of the student shall not be adversely affected as a result of the good faith reporting of sexual harassment.
A complaint or concern regarding the identification, evaluation or placement of a student with disabilities or the accessibility of the district’s services, activities or programs to a student, should be directed to the administration.
Individuals with complaints regarding the appropriateness of programs or services provided for talented and gifted students should file a written complaint with the Superintendent. The Superintendent will arrange for a review committee to meet within two (2) school days of receiving the written complaint to review all pertinent information. The written complaint should state the reason(s) for the complaint and recommendations to resolve the complaint.
The review committee shall make a recommendation to the Superintendent within ten (10) school days of reviewing the original complaint. The Superintendent will report the recommendation to the Board whose decision will be final.
The complainant may file an appeal with the State Superintendent of Public Instruction if dissatisfied with the decision of the Board or if 45 or more days have elapsed since the original filing of the written complaint alleging a violation of standards with the district. An appropriate copy of the OAR will be provided to the complainant upon request from the administration.
ALL OTHER COMPLAINTS
Students or parents/guardians with complaints not covered by this student/parent handbook should contact the administration.
The information contained below shall serve as the district’s annual notice to parents/guardians of minors and eligible students (if 18 or older) of their rights, the location and district official responsible for education records. Notice will also be provided to parents/guardians of minor students who have a primary or home language other than English.
Education records are those records related to a student maintained by the district. As student’s education records are confidential and protected from unauthorized inspection or use. All access and release of education records with and without parent/legal guardian and eligible student notice and consent will comply with all state and federal laws.
Personally identifiable information shall not be disclosed without parent/legal guardian or eligible student authorization or as otherwise provided by Board policy and law.
Education records are maintained in a minimum one-hour fire-safe place by the office by the administration.
Permanent records shall include:
1. Full legal name of student
2. Name and address of educational agency or institution
3. Student birth date and place of birth
4. Name of parent/guardian
5. Date of entry into school
6. Name of school previously attended
7. Courses of study and marks received
8. Data documenting a student’s progress toward the CIM and CAM
9. Credits earned
10. Attendance
11. Date of withdrawal from school
12. Other information, including, but not limited to testing, discipline records, behavior records, social security number, and IEP’s
TRANSFER OF EDUCATIONAL RECORDS
The district shall transfer originals of all requested student education records, including any ESD records relating to a particular student to the new educational agency when a request to transfer such records is made to the district. The transfer shall be made no later than ten (10) calendar days after receipt of the request.
The district shall retain a copy of the education records that are to be transferred in accordance with applicable Oregon laws.
Student report cards and records of diplomas may be withheld for non-payment of fines or fees. Records requested by another school district to determine the student’s progress may not be withheld.
The district shall, within ten (10) calendar days of a student seeking enrollment in services from the district, notify the public or private school, education service district, institution, agency or youth care center in which the student was formerly enrolled and shall request the student’s educational records.
By Oregon law, both parents, whether married, separated or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 unless the district is provided evidence that there is a court order, state statue or legally binding document relating to such matters as divorce, separation or custody that specifically revokes these rights.
Parents/Guardians of a minor, or an eligible student (if 18 or older), may inspect and review education records during regular district hours. If parents/guardians or eligible students want copies of the education records, the district may charge a copy fee.
Parents/Legal Guardians of a minor, or eligible student (if 18 or older), may request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the district refuses the request to amend the contents of the records, the requester has the right to a hearing as follows:
1. Complainant shall make a request for a hearing in which the objections are specified in writing to the Superintendent.
2. The Superintendent shall establish a date and location for the hearing agreeable to both parties.
3. The hearing panel shall consist of the following:
a. The Superintendent or his/her designee
b. A member chosen by the parent/guardian or eligible student
c. A disinterested, qualified third party, appointed by the Superintendent
4. The hearing shall be private. Persons other than the parent/guardian or eligible student, witnesses and counsel shall not be permitted.
The Superintendent or his/her designee shall preside over the panel. The panel may hear evidence from witnesses and the parents/guardians or eligible student to determine the point or points of disagreement regarding the education records. The panel shall make a determination after hearing the evidence and determine what steps, if any, are to be taken to correct the education records. Such actions are to be made in writing to the parents/guardians or eligible student.
If, after such hearing is held as described above, the parents/guardians or eligible student are not satisfied with the recommended action, the parents/guardians may appeal to the Board where the action of the hearings panel will be reviewed.
Procedures for appeal beyond the Board follows the
prescribed actions as set forth in federal regulations. The parent/guardian or eligible student may
file a complaint with the Federal Family Compliance Office, U.S. Department of
Education, Washington D.C., 20202, regarding an alleged violation of the Family
Education Rights and Privacy Act.
Skateboards/Rollerblades/Scooters or similar devices are prohibited on school district property during school hours unless special permission is given by the administration for a specific activity.
Use of skateboards/rollerblades/scooters on district property during non-school hours is at the user’s risk.
Textbooks will be provided free of charge to all students. If books are damaged, marked in any way, or lost, the student will be expected to pay for the repair or replacement cost of the book.
The district is committed to an educational program that recognizes, identifies and serves the unique needs of talented and gifted students. Talented and gifted (TAG) students are those who have been identified as academically talented and/or intellectually gifted. Students and parents/guardians interested in the TAG program should contact the district TAG Coordinator or the office. (See District Policy IGBB)
A student being transported on district provided transportation is required to comply with the district policies, rules and regulations, as well as, the conduct policies of the bus company. Any student who fails to comply with the district policies, rules, and regulations, as well as, the conduct policies of the bus company may be denied transportation services and shall be subject to disciplinary action.
The following rules shall apply to student conduct on district provided transportation:
1. Students being transported are under authority of the bus driver.
2. Fighting, wrestling or boisterous activity is prohibited on the bus.
3. Students will use the emergency door only in case of emergency.
4. Students will be on time for the bus, both morning and evening.
5. Students will not bring firearms, weapons or other potentially hazardous material on the bus.
6. Students will not bring animals, except approved assistance guide animals on the bus.
7. Students will remain seated while bus is in motion.
8. Students may be assigned seats by the bus driver.
9. When necessary to cross the road, students will cross in front of the bus or as instructed by the bus driver.
10. Students will not extend their hands, arms or heads through bus windows.
11. Students will have written permission to leave the bus other than for home or school.
12. Students will converse in normal tones; loud or vulgar language is prohibited.
13. Students will not open or close windows without permission of the bus driver.
14. Students will keep the bus clean and must refrain from damaging it.
15. Students will be courteous to the driver, fellow students and passers-by.
16. Students who refuse to promptly obey the directions of the driver or refuse to obey regulations may forfeit their privilege to ride the buses.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR VIOLATIONS OF TRANSPORTATION RULES
The following procedures shall be followed when a discipline concern arises on a vehicle serving a regular route or an extracurricular activity:
1. 1st Citation – Warning: The driver verbally restates behavior expectations and issues a warning citation.
2. 2nd Citation – The student is suspended from the bus until a conference, arranged by the bus driver has been held with the student, the parent/guardian, the bus driver and the administrator or his/her designee.
3. 3rd Citation – The student receives a five (5) to ten (10) day suspension and will not be able to ride the bus until a conference, arranged by the bus driver, has been held with the student, the parent/guardian, the bus driver and the school administrator or his/her designee. At this time a behavior contract will be made with the student and a bus seat may be assigned. Further violations of bus regulations will be considered a severe violation.
4. Severe Violation: Any severe violation will result in the immediate suspension of the student for a minimum of ten (10) school days and up to a one year expulsion from the bus. There will be a hearing at this time, arranged by the transportation supervisor, involving the student, the parent/guardian, the bus driver, the transportation supervisor, and the school administrator or his/her designee.
5. In all instances, the appeal process may be used if the student and/or parent/guardian desires.
Disciplinary sanctions and changes in transportation for a student with a disability shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students considered disabled under IDEA or the individually designed program for students considered disabled under Section 504 and in accordance with Board adopted policies and procedures governing the discipline of disabled students.
The following represent the procedural expectations of those involved in transporting and riding activity/athletic buses representing Gilliam County School Districts.
Safety Measures – Because safety, comfort and operating efficiency are so directly affected by rider conduct, the following are expected:
All student riders…
1. Shall refrain from fighting, wrestling or boisterous activity.
2. Shall use the emergency door only in the case of an emergency.
3. Shall remain seated while the bus is in motion.
4. Shall keep the bus clean and must refrain from damaging it. (The use of soft drinks will be limited).
5. Shall be courteous to the driver, to fellow students and passerby.
6. Shall store large items (or hard items) on the floor or in provided storage areas.
7. Shall not interfere with any of the school bus operating controls except as instructed by the driver.
8. Shall not walk on seats or swing on luggage racks, etc.
9. Shall not bring on aerosol spray cans, glass containers, or beverage bottles.
10. Shall not sit in the back seat if sufficient seating is available.
11. Shall refrain from blocking the aisle, as the bus is moving.
12. Shall refrain from shoes with cleats on the bus.
13. Shall refrain from the use of portable radios/CD players unless headphones are used.
14. Shall refrain from attempting to bring items that are too large to transport under the seats or in the provided storage compartments.
15. Neither Mid Columbia Bus Company nor the School District is responsible for any articles that are not directly connected to the type of activity trip.
Communication Channels: So as to facilitate the orderly completion of the activity trip or athletic event, the primary responsibility for all arrangements necessary lie with the school activity/athletic director or appropriate administrator in consultation with the management of Mid Columbia Bus Company. Concerns and complaints from students and coaches are to be directed through the athletic director or building principal.
Unauthorized passengers (children/students not currently enrolled in the school district and adults not employed by the school district) must have prior approval by the School District before the trip departure.
Vehicles parked on district property are under the jurisdiction of the district. Any student driving a motorized vehicle to school must be a licensed driver and may be required to show that he/she holds a valid driver’s license, show that the vehicle is currently registered and that the student driving the vehicle is insured under a motor vehicle liability insurance policy or that the student or vehicle owner has provided the Motor Vehicles Division with other satisfactory proof of compliance with the financial responsibility requirements of the state.
All vehicles parked on school campus must be parked in the designated areas as prescribed by the administration. Parking on district property is a privilege and not a right. District officials may conduct searches of vehicles upon reasonable suspicion of a policy, rule and/or procedure violation.
Students are not to be in their vehicles or getting things from their vehicles during school hours unless they have permission from the administration.
No student is authorized to drive a motorized vehicle during the hours in which school is in session without proper authorization from parents/guardians and the administration. Students who drive or park inappropriately may lose their privilege to drive and/or park on school grounds. Students should not be driving to the grade school for classes held at the grade school unless administrative permission has been granted. Students are not authorized to enter an auto driven by any person except by written authorization from the parent/guardian of the student and the parent/guardian of the person driving. Students are not authorized to ride in the back of a pickup or other open vehicle.
Bicycles are not to be ridden on school grounds during school hours. Bicycles ridden to school by students must be parked in designated area on school grounds and should be locked. Students under the age of 16 must wear a helmet as required by law. The district assumes no responsibility or liability for loss or damage to vehicles or bicycles.
Parents/Guardians and other visitors are encouraged to visit
district schools. To ensure the safety
and welfare of students, that school work is not disrupted and that visitors
are properly directed to the areas in which they are interested, all visitors
must report to the office upon entering school property. The administrator or his/her designee will
approve all requests to visit as appropriate.
Students will not be permitted to bring visitors to school without prior
approval of the school administrator.
No individual may loiter on or near school premises.
To earn a Certificate of Mastery, students must meet the content area performance standards in effect during their tenth grade year (sophomore). Students can meet the standards at any time prior to graduation. The chart below cites performance standards required for a CIM for student based on their year of graduation from high school:
CIM REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS
GRADUATING IN --
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2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
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Students Must Meet Performance Standards In: |
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English* Math Science The Arts |
English* Math Science The Arts Second Languages |
English* Math Science The Arts Second Languages Social Sciences Physical Education |
English* Math Science The Arts Second Languages Social Sciences Physical Education |
English* Math Science The Arts Second Languages Social Sciences Physical Education |
*English includes Reading, Speaking, and Writing Performance Standards.
The 2003 Oregon Legislature approved HB 2744, which makes the English, Math and Science Standards a required standard and the Arts, Second Language, Social Sciences, and Physical Education Standards optional standards based on local policies.
Between the 9th and 12th grade years, an Oregon student may earn a Certificate of Initial Mastery (CIM), showing the student has met Oregon’s state and local standards in the performance standard areas listed above.
WHY SHOULD YOUR STUDENT EARN A CIM?
Although earning a CIM is not required for graduation, it has considerable value:
In applying for college:
In applying for jobs:
WHAT MUST A STUDENT DO TO EARN A CIM?
To earn a CIM in 2003, a student must achieve high scores on state tests and work samples.
State Tests:
Students must achieve the following scores on state tests:
Work Samples:
Work samples are classroom assignments, scored on a 1-6 point scale using state scoring guides. Students must achieve the following scores on work samples:
1. Narrative or Imaginative
2. Expository
3. Persuasive
§ Mathematics – A score of 4 or more on each of the scoring guide traits (Conceptual Understanding, Processes and Strategies, Verification, Communication, and Accuracy); on two mathematic work samples. These two samples must represent 2 of these areas (Statistics & Probability, Algebraic Relationships, and Geometry)
§ Speaking – A score of 4 or more on each of the scoring guide traits (Ideas and Content, Organization, Language, and Delivery); on three speaking work samples. These three samples must represent 3 types of speaking (Informative, Persuasive, and Unrehearsed).
§ Science – No Work Samples are required in Science at this time.
CIM-level state tests and work samples focus on grades 10-12, however 9th graders can now take the CIM tests and 8th graders can challenge the state CIM test.
State Tests:
State tests are given each year during periods of time called “testing windows.” Within these windows, each school determines on which days it will administer state tests. During the school’s testing period, a student can take a state test for the first time or take any re-tests.
Work Samples:
Each student must complete a least one work sample in each area each year in grades 3-8. In high school students may work on work samples at times determined by the school. The number of opportunities will be determined by the teachers designated to score and record the work sample requirements.
School districts award diplomas to graduating students who have met the state and local district requirements. (See Graduation Requirements and Alternative Diploma policies listed above)
Students may also earn a Certificate of Advanced Master (CAM) starting with the graduating Class of 2008.
With the help of your teachers, advisor, your parents/guardians, and your high school counselor, make out a four-year academic program based upon state and district graduation requirements and based upon your personal vocational and avocational interests:
1. Fill in all REQUIRED COURSES for graduation.
2. If you plan to go to college, list college preparatory courses with the required courses. Also include courses that will prepare you for your career goals. Be sure to use a pencil so you can erase and make changes.
3. Fill in your program with ELECTIVES.
4. Review your plan with your advisor and if you are a junior or senior, please review your plan with your guidance counselor.
Name__________________________________________ Advisor_______________________________
REQUIRED COURSES ELECTIVES
9th Grade ________________________________ ________________________
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10th Grade ________________________________ ________________________
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11th Grade ________________________________ ________________________
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12th Grade ________________________________ ________________________
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Grade Point Averages (GPA) are often used to determine eligibility for college or university entrance, or for standing on the honor roll, athletic eligibility, and minimum graduation or PASS standards. To calculate your GPA, set up three columns. In the first, list your subjects. In the second column, after your subject, write your letter grade. In the third column, record your points as follows:
|
SUBJECT |
GRADE |
POINTS |
|
Language Arts |
B |
|
|
Social Studies |
A |
4 |
|
Science |
C |
2 |
|
Math |
C |
2 |
|
Health |
A |
4 |
|
Physical Education |
B |
3 |
|
Computers |
C |
2 |
TOTAL POINTS |
|
20 |
TOTAL NUMBER OF GRADES |
7 |
|
|
GRADE |
POINTS |
|
4 |
|
|
B |
3 |
|
C |
2 |
|
D |
1 |
|
F |
0 |
In the example above, the student would have a total of 20 points based on the grades and 7 graded classes. Take the total number of points and divide by the number of grades (graded classes). In this example it would be 20 divided by 7 or a 2.86 GPA. GPAs are usually only computed to the second decimal point or one hundredth. In the example above, the GPA is rounded up after the second decimal.
Take time to set some goals and write them out in slots provided. Goals should be related to your academic studies, your vocational and avocational aspirations, and personal resolutions and commitments. Here are some things to think about when you are developing your goals for the year:
Many students like to have a goal of getting better grades. Here is an example of how a student might set some goals to earn better grades:
Here is a monthly example one student set for themselves:
Goals: Improve English grade by 10% by the end of the quarter.
Swim 60 laps each week.
Do volunteer work at the hospital four hours a week.
Now you try. Have some fun by trying to predict what you will accomplish this school year:
September 2003________________________________________________________
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October 2003__________________________________________________________
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November 2003________________________________________________________
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December 2003_________________________________________________________
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January 2004___________________________________________________________
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February 2004___________________________________________________________
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March 2004_____________________________________________________________
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April 2004______________________________________________________________
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May 2004_______________________________________________________________
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Another key to success is time management. You can increase the opportunities to do the things you want and need to do by improving on how you manage your time. Those who manage their time effectively have the same twenty-four hours in a day as everyone else. What they do is plan and schedule time so that they can achieve a balance in all parts of their lives as well as be successful.
If you take time to organize your efforts, you can easily save one-quarter to one-third of your time. The trick is to develop a concrete plan for home, school, and work. Planning ahead and applying these time-management strategies will result in getting maximum value for the time you have. It will help you with your schoolwork and will result in more free time to spend with your friends and for leisure activities like sports and music.
Of course, you want to be successful. Success at school will open many opportunities for you in the future. Good organization is the key to success. Having a daily planner will help you manage your time efficiently and effectively. The district provides a daily planner for high school students. Make a plan for each day and carry the planner with you always.
Here are some other tips to help you improve your time management with your daily planner:
During School:
At Home:
Successful study strategies include:
Listening:
1. Concentrate on your teacher.
2. Tune out noise/talking.
3. Listen for the main ideas.
4. Use the 5 W’s and 1H to focus your ears: What? Why? Where? When? Who? How?
5. Be alert for the speaker’s feelings and style.
Taking notes:
1. Do not write down everything.
2. Write down important ideas and supporting facts.
3. Use your own words, not your teacher’s.
4. Learn different note-taking methods (i.e., mapping, outlining, etc.)
5. Keep notes organized by dating and numbering pages.
6. Keep all notes for a class in one place.
TIP: Listen 80% and write 20% of the time.
Remembering:
1. Quickly review what you’re learning in each class daily and weekly.
2. Summarize important chapters, lectures or discussions. Just doing this will help you remember.
3. Apply what you’re learning as soon as possible.
4. Study with friends if you can stay on topic. Ask questions and answer their questions.
5. Learn memory aid techniques to trigger recall.
TIP: Short, repeated study periods work better than one long cram
session.
Workplace:
1. Work in the same place as much as possible.
2. Keep your workplace clean and uncluttered.
3. Make sure you have good lighting to avoid tired eyes and drowsiness.
4. Use firm, straight chair.
5. Don’t do homework in front of the TV!
6. Quiet music may help, or it may just distract you. Choose what’s best and stick to it.
Test-Taking Skills:
1. Find out what kind of test you’re getting (multiple-choice, essay, short answer, etc.)
2. Avoid cramming.
3. Set up a study schedule so you review everything well before the test. Use your daily planner to keep track.
4. Write out likely questions and answer them.
5. Get enough rest the night before a test.
6. Eat a good breakfast and lunch.
7. Take all the necessary tools: pens, pencils, calculators, hi-lighter, etc.
TIP: When you’re well prepared, you experience less stress.
Get Set:
1. Don’t start writing as soon as you get the test.
2. First, skim the exam to make sure you have it all.
3. Then read the instructions.
4. Hi-light key words like discuss, compare, list…..
5. Quickly estimate how much time you have to answer questions.
Go:
1. Answer easier questions first to boost your confidence.
2. Read questions several times to be sure you understand exactly what is being asked.
3. Never rush through questions in a panic. Be calm and pace yourself.
4. Try to leave some time before the test is over to review and correct errors.
5. If you run out of time on a certain question, leave some room and return to it later.
Types of Tests:
Multiple-Choice:
1. Don’t guess unless there is no penalty for wrong answers.
2. Before looking at the possible answers, try to form the answer in your mind.
3. Don’t change an answer that comes to mind first unless you’re absolutely sure it’s wrong.
Essay Questions:
1. Always write answers in paragraph form unless a list is specifically asked for.
2. Answer essay questions this way:
a) Make a rough outline.
b) Begin with a topic sentence that includes the key words of the question.
c) Support your position with specific examples and detailed information.
d) Conclude by very briefly summing up your answer.