ARLINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 3 2002-2003 

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT & PARENT HANDBOOK

 

For questions about this document or the interpretations of its contents call 541-454-2632 or click here to email Superintendent Keown

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PREFACE__________________________________________________

 

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  Materials contained herein may therefore be superseded by such Board policy, administrative regulations or negotiated agreement.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. 

 

 

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY_________________________

 

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.

 

 

VALUES AND BELIEFS STATEMENT________________________

 

Students And Learning

 

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.

 

The Educational Partnership

 

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.

 

The Learning Environment

 

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.

 

 

ARLINGTON SCHOOL/COMMUNITY YOUTH GOAL

 

To create an innovative education system
that graduates students with the academic
background, social skills, moral character,
self-esteem, and confidence necessary to become
positive productive members of society.

 

 

PHILOSOPHY______________________________________________

 

It is the purpose of the Arlington Schools to provide opportunities for continuous mental, physical, and moral growth of its students. 

 

TITLE I____________________________________________________

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADMISSION_______________________________________________

 

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.

 

ALTERNATIVE PROGRAMS________________________________

 

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.

 

 

 

 

ASBESTOS__________________________________________________

 

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.

 

ASSEMBLIES________________________________________________

 

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.

 

ATTENDANCE_______________________________________________

 

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 (65 days minimum in a 75 day semester).

 

Due process procedures are available to a student when the grade is reduced or credit denied for attendance.  A school committee of two teachers and the school counselor will consider reasons for non-attendance.  Appeals to the decision of the school committee may be made to the Superintendent.

 

Exemptions from Compulsory Attendance are provided by law. (ORS 339.030).

 

EXPECTATIONS

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 during the semester, except for school functions such as field trips, ASB activities, or sports will be excused from all final exams.  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 school related activities 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.  Students must have a C or better to be excused from final exams.

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:  Student will lose 3% of his/her final grade per unexcused absence.  Student will have one day after their return to complete and turn in work.

c)      Pre-Arranged Absence:  All work is due when the student returns to class.

 

LEAVING SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS

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.

 

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES INCLUDE

 

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 that have not been pre-arranged.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

BEHAVIOR________________________________________________

 

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/tobacco, sale or supply of drugs/alcohol/tobacco, 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 entire day of and the day after 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 unless given permission by the teacher.

7.             Personal property which disrupts class, such as a CD Player, laser light, cell phones, 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.

 

STUDENT BEHAVIOR AND CONDUCT

 

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 unwanted physical handling and/or verbal abuse of other students is not permitted.  Students involved in such action will face possible suspension/expulsion 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 semester 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.

 

 

 

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS_____________________________

 

Student clubs and activity organizations such as band, choir, drama, dance, Associated Student Body, GAA, Letterman’s, National Honor Society, etc., 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 Athletic Policy for extra-curricular eligibility requirements.)

 

ALCOHOL/DRUG/TOBACCO VIOLATIONS – CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Students involved with clubs and organizations must not use, possess, or be actively involved with drugs, alcohol or tobacco.

 

FIRST OFFENSE

Students determined to be in violation of this policy by use, possession, transmission or active involvement with drugs, alcohol or tobacco will be subject to an immediate suspension from participation in the club/organization of at least two weeks (14 calendar days). 

 

Students cannot participate in any formal role during that two-week period.  The suspension will begin as soon as the school becomes aware of the violation.  The total actual time of the suspension from the activities will be as follows:

1.       STUDENT CHOOSES TO UNDERGO VOLUNTARY ASSESSMENT AND PLAN OF ACTION*:  The student will continue to participate, but will have no formal role in any events during this period of suspension.

 

* Assessment is a process by which information is gathered about attitudes and behaviors, which may be symptomatic of chemical dependency.  Assessment is to be performed by any licensed assessment provider.  The result of assessment must be submitted to the administration.  Students who choose voluntary assessment must follow the recommendation of the outcome of the assessment.  Documentation of satisfactory progress must be provided to the administration by the treating agency.  Upon receiving this documentation, the administration will make the determination whether the student will remain in participation in the activity.

 

A plan of action will be developed by the administration to assist the student in correcting the offense.  This plan will consist of, but is not limited to, three assignments to the student:

A.           Additional academic work

B.           School service work

C.           A student contract

The plan will focus on individual needs of each student; this may not be the same for all students.  Students choosing the plan of action must complete and adhere to all components of the plan.

 

If the administration determines that the student will be reinstated to full participation in the activity, the student will be reinstated to the same club/organization and have full opportunity to participate in the organization by earning his/her way with a positive attitude.

 

2.       STUDENT CHOOSES NOT TO UNDERGO VOLUNTARY ASSESSMENT; the student will be suspended from participation in the club/organization for a calendar year.

3.       In both #1 and #2 above, the administration may extend the suspension if the assessment results are considered unsatisfactory.

4.       This policy will be applied throughout the calendar year, regardless of school dates.  Any suspension and recommended corrective actions will be applied from one school year into the next.

 

ANY SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE

Will result in immediate and full suspension from club/organization participation for a period of one calendar year.  Mandatory follow-up with a qualified assessment provider will be required for reinstatement of the student into other activity programs.  This is contingent upon the student complying with the recommendation of the assessment provider and the provisions of the plan of action as described under First Offense.  If the subsequent offense is more than three years after the initial offense, a suspension from the club/organization for a period of not fewer than nine weeks, may be applied in place of the one-year suspension.

 

CELL PHONES, PAGERS, COMMUNICATION DEVICES          

 

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.

 

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.

 

 

 

 

COUNSELING_______________________________________________

 

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 are held on 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.

 

SATURDAY SCHOOL

A student may be assigned to 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 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 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.

 

DRESS AND GROOMING___________________________________

 

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, 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, pajamas, short shorts, 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 not wear hats in the high school building during school hours.  Scarves and headbands may be worn as appropriate.

5.                  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, temporary tattoos 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.

 

DRIVER EDUCATION_______________________________________

 

The district will provide instruction on the driver education-training manual (rules of the road) within the high school curriculum to prepare students for the state’s written driver’s test.  Other driver instruction will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. 

 

 

DRUG, ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO PREVENTION PROGRAM__

 

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.

 

DRUG PREVENTION PROGRAM

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.

 

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT_____________________

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION___________

 

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 following 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 this code shall be subject to disciplinary action as prescribed.

 

 

 

PARTICIPATION

 

1.                   Any athlete dismissed from a team for disciplinary reasons shall not participate in another sport during that original sport season.

2.                   An athlete who quits during any sport will not be allowed to participate in another sport without permission from both coaches involved.

3.                   Athletes and Cheerleaders will attend all scheduled classes the day of and the day immediately following an athletic contest, unless prearranged with the administrator or designee.  Students are responsible for any work they miss due to an athletic trip.  Arrangements should be made with teachers of those classes to be missed prior to leaving on the trip.

4.                   A student who is participating in an extra-curricular activity of whom there is reasonable suspicion of a violation of the athletic policy, may be tested for drugs/alcohol at the first available opportunity after the school becomes aware of the situation.

5.                   Any absence from a regularly scheduled practice session without the coach’s authorization, either by prearrangement, conference with the coach, or absence from school shall receive consequences at the discretion of the coach in charge.

6.                   Students are expected to maintain good citizenship by developing leadership and setting positive examples for other students in the school; by demonstrating good sportsmanship both on and off the field; by respecting the rights, abilities and efforts of others, and being loyal to school, team and friends.

7.                   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 AWARDS

An athlete must be a member in good standing at the close of a sports season to be eligible for any award that may be given.  An athlete must attend the awards presentation to receive or be considered for an award unless pre-excused by his/her coach.  Coaches will establish guidelines on how students earn a letter for their sport.  The established guidelines will be written and provided to and reviewed with each athlete at the start of the sport season.  A copy will be on file with the administration. 

 

WARNING:  Violation of training or citizenship rules at anytime during a sport season may jeopardize a student’s opportunity to receive any award, i.e., recognition for all-conference.

 

GROOMING

What an athlete wears on the day of a scheduled contest during any sport will be left up to the discretion of the coach as long as it meets or exceeds the district dress and grooming policy.

 

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.

 

ALCOHOL/DRUG/TOBACCO VIOLATIONS - ATHLETICS

FIRST OFFENSE

Students determined to be in violation of this policy by use, possession, or active involvement with drugs, alcohol or tobacco, will be subject to an immediate suspension or a least two weeks (14 calendar days) and/or two contests, whichever is greater.  The suspension will begin as soon as the school becomes aware of the violation.  The total actual time of the suspension from activities will be as follows:

 

1.                   STUDENT CHOOSES TO UNDERGO VOLUNTARY ASSESSMENT, AND PLAN OF ACTION*:  The student will continue to practice but will not play in any contest during this period of suspension.

 

*Assessment is a process by which information is gathered about attitudes and behaviors, which may be symptomatic of chemical dependency.  Assessment is to be performed by any licensed assessment provider.  The result of assessment must be submitted to the administration.  Students who choose voluntary assessment must follow the recommendation of the outcome of the assessment.  Documentation of satisfactory progress must be provided to the administration by the treating agency.  Upon receiving this documentation, the administration will make the determination whether the student will remain in participation in athletics.

 

A plan of action will be developed by the administration to assist the student in correcting the offense.  This plan will consist of, but is not limited to, three assignments to the student:

1.Additional academic work

2.School service work

3.A student contract

 

The plan will focus on individual needs of each student; this may not be the same for all students.  Students choosing the plan of action must complete and adhere to all components of the plan.

 

If the administration determines that the student will be reinstated to full participation in the activity, the student will be reinstated to athletics and have full opportunity to participate in the team by earning his/her way with a positive attitude.

 

2.   STUDENT CHOOSES NOT TO UNDERGO VOLUNTARY ASSTSSMENT:  The student will be suspended from participation in athletics for a calendar year.

3.      In both #1 and #2 above, the administration may extend the suspension if the assessment results are considered unsatisfactory.

4.             This policy will be applied throughout the calendar year, regardless of      school dates.  Any suspension and recommended corrective actions will be applied from one school year into the next.

 

ANY SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE

Will result in immediate and full suspension from the athletic program for a period of one calendar year.  Mandatory follow-up with a qualified assessment provider will be required for reinstatement of the student into the athletic program and is contingent upon the student complying with the recommendations of the assessment provider and the provisions of the plan of action as described under First Offense.  If the subsequent offense is more than three years after the initial offense, a suspension from the athletic program for the remainder of the season, or for a period of not fewer than nine weeks, whichever is greater, may be applied in place of the one year suspension.

 

SPORTSPERSONSHIP

Sportspersonship usually refers to the conduct of the athletes and student rooters while participating in various interscholastic activities.  The following code is a good summary of a true sportsperson.  A sportsperson will:

1.                   Consider all athletic opponents as guests and treat them with the courtesy due guests.

2.                   Accept the decisions of officials without question, allow coaches to express concerns in the manner prescribed for each sport.

3.                   Never hiss or boo a player or an official.

4.                   Seek to win by fair means, according to the rules of the game.

5.                   Seek to win every contest, but win or lose, always do your best.

 

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

The Arlington School District believes that the athletic and cheerleading programs provided in the schools are an important part of the educational process and that these activities encourage and support the academic programs.  It is with this in mind that the following eligibility requirements have been developed.

 

The following eligibility requirements apply to students who participate in district sanctioned athletic and cheerleading activities.  Participating students are required to demonstrate desirable behavior, satisfactory attendance and academic progress as determined by the following district criteria.

 

OSSA regulations require students pass five classes each semester.  Arlington students must meet all OSAA requirements for eligibility in addition to the district criteria.

 

Unless stated by OSAA regulations, all athletes must have a minimum of nine full on-field, or on-court practices before participating in their first game or contest.  If a student transfers to the district after the official starting date of the season, the student may transfer in up to four practices if the student participated at his/her former school.  Five practices or more must occur as a participant on the Arlington team.

 

To be eligible to participate in extra-curricular* activities a student must:

 

1.                   Maintain at least a 2.0 grade average with no F’s.  Starting the first day of school of the second week of the school year, all fall athletes will receive grades that determine eligibility for the following week.  If a student earns below a 2.0 average or earns any F’s, the student is on probation for one week.  Monday through Friday he/she must attend a one-hour study hall unless traveling to an away game with the team.  The student must attend study hall on home game days.  The athlete is expected to go to practice after study hall.  He/She may play in all games during this week.  The coach determines playing time.  The coach must excuse any absence from study hall.  Any unexcused absence will result in the student not being allowed to play in any games for that week.

(*Extra-curricular activities are defined as those activities under the sponsorship or direction of the school for which participation is voluntary)

2.                   If a student earns below a 2.0 average or an F for a second consecutive week, he/she must attend a one-hour study hall every day that week and each following week until student has no F’s and a 2.0 average, as reported the following week.  The coach must excuse any absence from study hall.  Step two students shall travel with the team to away games and be excused from study hall on that day.  During the second week and following weeks, if necessary, the student is expected to attend practice following study hall.  Students at step two may not play, warm up or dress down for any games during any week of ineligibility.  The player is still part of the team and must be with his/her team during all contests or games.  Students who are ineligible are still members of the team and shall travel with the team at the coaches’ discretion.  Arlington Middle School ineligible students, who are members of the team, will not travel with the team.  Students remain on the team unless they quit the team or the season ends.  Students who fail to complete a season will not receive any awards or recognition.

3.                   Additional activities covered by this policy include:  Letterman Trip, GAA Trip, Cheerleading, Class Activities, Student Body Officers, Homecoming King/Queen, Prom King/Queen and May Day King/Queen.  To be eligible to participate in the above-mentioned activities not including athletics, the individual student must not have any failing grades or earning below a 2.0 GPA on the Monday prior to the activity for the current grading session.

4.                   Exceptions to participation requirements may be made for IEP students when the disabling condition, as identified in a student’s IEP, prevents the student from achieving the required grade point average, behavior standard or attendance requirement.

5.                   Flexibility will be provided for Alternative Program Students and Charter School Students as it relates to transferring into and out of an alternative program/charter school.  The academic, behavior and attendance requirements appropriate to the student’s placement shall all apply once a student begins participation.

6.                   Home-Schooled Students will be considered eligible for participation if they meet the following criteria:

a)      The student is in compliance with all the rules governing home schooling and can provide acceptable documentation of compliance to the district.

b)      The student can meet the district’s eligibility requirements with the exception of attendance.

c)      The student need not meet class requirements of the voluntary association administering the activity.

d)      The student can achieve the minimum achievement test score required of home-schooled students.  Students may participate while awaiting test results.

e)      The student must fulfill the same responsibilities, standards of behavior and performance, including related class or practice requirements, as other students participating in the activity.  The student must also comply with all public school requirements during the time of participation.

 

PRACTICE REQUIREMENTS

If a student is absent more than one period in a school day he/she may not practice or play that day unless prearranged or excused.  If a student has any absences during a school day unexcused, he/she is ineligible for that day, no practice and no play.  The school secretary will contact the coach to notify him/her of the player’s ineligibility.

 

 

 

 

FEES_______________________________________________________

 

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 (Optional)                               Grades 9-12      $23.00

            Registration Fee                                    Grades 5-12      $15.00

Pay to Participate            Grades 9-12            $50.00 (Per sport -- $150 maximum per family/per sport)

Grades 5-8            $25.00 (Per sport -- $150 maximum per family/per sport)

 

FIELD TRIPS_________________________________________________

 

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.

 

FUND RAISING_____________________________________________

 

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.

 

GANGS_____________________________________________________

 

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.

 

GOVERNMENT______________________________________________

 

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).

 

GRADE CLASSIFICATION_____________________________________

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GRADE REDUCTION/CREDIT DENIAL_________________________

 

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.

 

GRADUATION EXERCISES____________________________________

 

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.  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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

 

Beginning with the Class of 2003, the following graduation requirements will be required:

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

DISTRICT UNIT CREDIT FOR DIPLOMA

COMMENTS

Language Arts

4

(1 Must Be Written Composition)

Students must earn a 2.0 average or better in Language Arts 9 and Language Arts 10.

Mathematics

2

Students must earn a 2.0 average or better in first two high school math credits.

Science

2

Students must earn a 2.0 average or better in Physical Science and Biology.

Social Studies

4

(Including History, Civics, and Geography)

Students must earn a 2.0 average or better in Global Studies and World History.

Health Education

1

 

Physical Education

1

 

Applied Arts, Fine Arts, or Second Language

1

(In any one or a combination)

 

Driver’s Ed/Career Ed/Personal Finance

1

 

Senior Project/Economics

1

Economics is a State Social Studies Requirement.

Electives

6

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

23

*Students earning less than a 2.0 average in the eight core courses listed above will retake courses needed to reach a 2.0 average.  Students earning a failing grade in any required course must retake the course for credit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to the 23 credit requirements listed above, students must also meet the following requirements:

1.       Prior to graduation a student must achieve a minimum score of 225 on the Oregon State Reading/Literature and Mathematics skills and knowledge State CIM test.

  1. Meet all attendance requirements by the State of Oregon and the Arlington School District.

 

*EXEMPTIONS

  1. New Sophomores must meet the 2.0 average requirement for the four core 10th Grade courses as well as the credit, minimum CIM test score, and the attendance requirements.
  2. New Juniors and Seniors must meet the credit, minimum CIM test score, and the attendance requirements.
  3.  New Juniors and Seniors transferring from another state must meet credit and attendance requirements.

 

ALTERNATIVE DIPLOMA

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.

 

GYM AND WEIGHT ROOM USE______________________________

 

Students are not to be involved in any type of activity in the gymnasium or 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_______________________________________________

 

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.

 

STUDENT HOMEWORK 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.

 

PARENT/GUARDIANS HOMEWORK RESPONSIBILITY

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.

 

TEACHER HOMEWORK RESPONSIBILITY

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.

 

HONOR ROLL QUALIFICATIONS____________________________

 

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.

 

IMMUNIZATION____________________________________________

 

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.

 

INFECTION CONTROL/HIV, HBV, AND AIDS__________________

 

Although HIV, HBV, 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, AIDS and/or other infectious diseases.

 

If the district is informed that a student is HIV, HBV, 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.

 

INFECTION/DISEASE INSTRUCTION

An age-appropriate plan of instruction about infections/diseases including HIV, HBV, 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, AIDS health education program should contact the administration.

 

INSURANCE_________________________________________________

 

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.

 

LOCKERS____________________________________________________

 

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.  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.

 

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. 

 

 

LOST AND FOUND__________________________________________

 

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.

 

LUNCH/BREAKFAST PROGRAM_____________________________

 

 

Breakfast

Reduced

Lunch

Reduced

Adult

$2.25

 

$3.00

 

K-8 Students

$1.00

$0.30

$1.50

$0.40

K-8 Students – Extra Entrée

 

 

$2.00           (includes regular lunch)

 

9-12 Students

$1.00

$0.30

$2.00

$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 ACCESS TO STUDENTS______________________________

 

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.

 

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL_____________________________________

 

Students may be permitted to take prescription or nonprescription medication at school or at school-sponsored activities on a temporary or regular basis when necessary.

 

 

DISTRICT ADMINISTERED MEDICATION

Requests shall be made in writing by the parent/guardian 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.

 

Written instructions of the parent/guardian, which include the information above, are required for all requests to administer nonprescription medication.

 

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.

 

SELF-MEDICATION

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.

 

POSTERS/SIGNS/BANNERS_________________________________

 

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 spirit signs, only.  No hand-held signs will be allowed at ballgames.  (See Lockers policy above)

 

PROGRAM EXEMPTIONS__________________________________

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RECORDS – DIRECTORY INFORMATION______________________

 

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.

 

REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS_____________________________

 

Arlington High School grades are reported on a semester reporting basis.  Progress reports shall be sent to parents every four-and-a-half weeks.  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 and third nine-week grading periods.  Conferences for second nine-week grading period may be held at the request of the parent and/or teacher.

 

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.

 

SEARCH AND SEIZURES____________________________________

 

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.

 

QUESTIONING

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.

 

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT_____

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STATE AND DISTRICT TESTING_____________________________

 

Students in grades 3, 5, 8, and 10 are required to take the state standards tests and district 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.

 

Parents/Guardians who do not want their student tested should notify the school in writing.

 

STUDENT/PARENT/GURADIAN COMPLAINTS________________

 

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.

 

DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS

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.

  

EDUCATION STANDARDS COMPLAINTS

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.

 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS COMPLAINTS

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 COMPLAINTS

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.

 

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES COMPLAINTS

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.

 

TAG PROGRAM AND SERVICE COMPLAINTS

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.

 

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL RECORDS________________________

 

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.

 

REQUEST FOR EDUCATIONAL RECORDS

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.

 

ACCESS/RELEASE OF 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.

 

PROVISION FOR HEARING TO CHALLENGE CONTENT OF EDUCATION RECORDS

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. 

 

STUDENT SKATEBOARD/ROLLERBLADE/SCOOTER USE____

 

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.

 

TEXTBOOK ISSUE PROCEDURE____________________________

 

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.

 

TALENTED AND GIFTED PROGRAM________________________

 

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)

 

TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS__________________________

 

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.

 

TRANSPORTATION RULES

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.

 

VEHICLES ON CAMPUS____________________________________

 

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 to drive a motorized vehicle during the hours in which school is in session without proper authorization from the administration.  Students who drive or park inappropriately may lose their privilege to drive and/or park on school grounds.

 

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.

 

VISITORS_________________________________________________

 

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. 

 

THE CERTIFICATE OF INITIAL MASTERY__________________

 

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 --

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Students Must Meet Performance Standards In:

English*

Math

Science

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.

 

CIM IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE

 

WHAT IS THE CIM?

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.

 

WHAT ABOUT STUDENTS WHO GRADUATE AFTER 2003?

The CIM requirements are subject to change based on State Board of Education action and Oregon Department of Education decisions, however, additional performance standards will be required (see the chart above).  The Arts, Second Language, and Physical Education performance standards requirements will be set by local districts.  The Social Science performance standards requirements will be set by the state, but are not currently determined.

 

HOW MANY CHANCES DOES A STUDENT HAVE TO EARN A CIM?

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.

 

WHAT CAN STUDENTS EARN IF THEY DO NOT EARN A CIM?

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 2007.  CAM requirements will be developed in the 2002-2003 school year by the State and local districts and be in place for the Class of 2007 when they enter high school in the 2003-2004 school year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAKE A CAREER AND ACADEMIC PLAN

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.

 

HIGH SCHOOL CAREER-COURSE PLAN

 

Name__________________________________________    Advisor_______________________________ 

 

Date__________________    My Career Goal_________________________________________________

 

                             REQUIRED COURSES                                            ELECTIVES

9th Grade    ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

 

10th Grade  ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

 

11th Grade  ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

 

 12th Grade  ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

                   ________________________________              ________________________

HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR GPA (GRADE POINT AVERAGE)__

 

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. Official GPA’s are determined by the office.* 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

3

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

A

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.  The Student Records Manager computes the official GPA.

 

GOAL SETTING_____________________________________________

 

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 2002________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________

 

October 2002__________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________

 

November 2002________________________________________________________

 

_____________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

December 2002_________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________________

 

January 2003___________________________________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________________

 

February 2003___________________________________________________________

 

_______________________________________________________________________

 

March 2003_____________________________________________________________

 

_______________________________________________________________________

 

April 2003______________________________________________________________

 

_______________________________________________________________________

 

May 2003_______________________________________________________________

 

_______________________________________________________________________

 

 

TIME MANGAGEMENT_____________________________________

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TIME MANAGEMENT HINTS

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:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STUDY STRATEGIES________________________________________

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.