Elementary Handbook HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION OUR MISSION Huntington County Community School Corporation provides education that ensures student achievement, promotes citizenship and encourages lifelong learning. Andrews Elementary Flint Springs Elementary Horace Mann Elementary Lancaster Elementary Lincoln Elementary Northwest Elementary Roanoke Elementary Salamonie School 2009-2010 RECEIPT OF HCCSC ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK 2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR TO THE PARENTS/LEGAL GUARDIAN: Indiana State Law (IC 20-33-6-2) requires that we request a student’s parent or legal guardian and any student in grade K-5 to acknowl- edge in writing that they have received a copy of the elementary school handbook containing the disciplinary policy. I herby acknowledge we received a copy of the HCCSC Elementary School Handbook. I have reviewed this handbook in an effort to become familiar with the Attendance policy, Discipline code, Cell phone policy, Media release policy, computer use agreement, HCCSC Parent Participation in Title I programs, and other school policies and guidelines. By signing this page with my child, we agree to the above mentioned policies and guidelines. It is my responsibility to contact the school before signing if I have questions about any policy, or if I do not want my child to participate in the media or computer use portion of the agreement. Please complete the form below and return it to the school office in person, with the student, or by mail. DATE: _______________________ SIGNATURE OF PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN: ______________________________ TO THE STUDENT: My signature verifies that I have received a HCCSC Elementary School Handbook. I am aware that I am expected to read this book and will be held accountable for its contents and any new additions. I am expected to take the handbook to my parents/legal guardian and ask them to review its contents and sign and return the receipt acknowledging that happened. If I have any questions, I will discuss them with my counselor or school administrator. DATE: ___________________________________________ STUDENT SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________ PRINTED NAME: _____________________________________________________________ PURPOSE This handbook contains most of the information you will need to know about Huntington County elementary schools. We hope it is helpful to you and answers any questions you may have. This handbook has been prepared to bring about a better understanding between the schools and par- ents/students. We ask for the cooperation of all parents and students so we may provide each student with a rewarding and enriching educational experience. PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THIS BOOK THOROUGHLY. TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Acknowledgement of Receiving Student Handbook 1 HCCSC Student Assistance Policy 13 After School Events 5 Homework Requests 4 Annual Letter of Notification for Asbestos 6 Honor Roll 4 Athletic and Extracurricular Activities 15 Ideas for Helping Your Child with Homework 5 Attendance 5 Immunizations 17 Basic Conduct Rules 8 Leaving School Grounds 7 Board Policy: Search and Seizure 12-13 Locker Policy 12 Book Rental 5 Lost and Found 4 Care/Protection of School/Personal Property 4 Lunch Program 5 Cell Phone and Wireless Communications Devices 17 Media Center 4 Change in Routine for Students 5 Medication Policy 6 Change of Address/Phone 5 Meningococcal Disease Important Information 16-17 Child Abuse/Neglect 6 Office and Teacher’s Room 4 Citizenship 5 Out-of-School Suspension 9 Clinic/Health Services 4 Parent Participation in Title I Programs 16 Closing School 5 Parental Access to Education Records 6 Corporal Punishment 9 Parent-Teacher Conferences 4 Counseling Services 4 Policy on Sexual and Other Forms of Harassment 15-16 Disciplinary Action 9 Promotions 4 Discipline Referral Slips 9 Recess 5 Disembarking at a Different Location 12 Report Cards 4 Dress Code 8 Request to Leave School 5 Early Dismissal 5 School Bus Discipline 12 Elementary School Disposition Procedures 15 Smoke Free Policy 13-14 Elementary School Substance Abuse Policy 14-15 Student Attendance Policy & Discipline Guidelines 7-8 Eligible Passengers on School Buses 12 Student Council 4 Expected Conduct of Students on School Buses 11 Student Creed 3 Expulsion Procedures 11 Suggestions and Complaints Guidelines 16 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 6 Suspension Procedures 11 Fire and Tornado Drills 4 Teacher Suspension of Students 9 Flag Etiquette 5 Technology Handbook 18-21 Goal Setting and Student Led Conferences 4 Transporting Large and Dangerous Items 12 Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion 9-11 Visitors 5 Gym Classes 4 Volunteers 5 HCCSC Mission Statement 3 Welcome 3 Withdrawals 5 Welcome to Huntington County Community Schools! HCCSC MISSION STATEMENT Huntington County Community School Corpo- ration provides education that ensures student achievement, promotes citi- zenship and encourages lifelong learning. A STUDENT CREED I pledge myself: To cooperate with my teachers and fellow students at all times. To comply with the rules and regulations of my school. To take pride in my school and help promote the spirit of friendship, cooperation, and good sportsmanship. To be loyal to my school at all times. To maintain high scholarship to the best of my ability. To uphold the ideas and traditions of my school. Parents and Students: The teachers and staff welcome you to a new school year. To help you enjoy your experiences, we offer the following suggestions: • Get to know your school. Become familiar with the classroom locations, school of- fice, counselor’s office, nurse’s office, library, cafeteria, and playground. • Get to know the principal, teachers, and staff. We are all here to serve you. • Study and learn as much as you can. We are available to help with any problems you may have, and will be better able to do so if you ask for help. We are proud of our schools, faculty, students, and staff. We are all dedicated to providing the highest quality education possible. It is our sincere hope that your experi- ence will be one filled with happiness and success. We urge parents to support their school, teachers, and programs. Parents’ positive attitude and support make a significant difference in student performance. Your positive involvement and attitude will make a significant difference in the success of your child. Parents are most welcome to visit school at anytime. A scheduled appointment is convenient, but not necessary. Teachers are available for conferences at a time to be mu- tually arranged and also during their plan period. Teachers’ plan periods are scheduled for various hours of the school day. For your convenience, please call the school for the time that the teacher with whom you wish to confer will be on his/her plan period. It is our wish that every parent would visit our school a minimum of once each year. Please review this handbook and feel free to contact us at school should you have any questions at all. We will be most happy to help! Building Administrator Phone # Administrative Services Center Mr. Tracey Shafer, Superintendent (260) 356-7812 Instructional Services Center Charles Grable (260) 356-5464 Andrews Elementary Gary Mast (260) 786-3021 Flint Springs Elementary Cynthia Kiefer (260) 356-7612 Horace Mann Elementary Amy Ashcraft (260) 356-8312 Lancaster Elementary John Purcell (260) 468-2816 Lincoln Elementary Adam Drummond , Interim Principal (260) 356-2914 Northwest Elementary Terry Pierce (260) 344-1455 Roanoke Elementary Paul Roth (260) 672-2806 Salamonie School Rick Reed (260) 356-8995 or 375-3434 3 STUDENT COUNCIL Membership in the Student Council is one of several honors a student may attain in our school. The council shall act as the voice of the students. Meetings are held at the discretion of the president and sponsor. FIRE AND TORNADO DRILLS Fire and tornado drills will be held periodically throughout the school year. Instructions are posted in each classroom. Make sure you become familiar with the posted procedure. If unsure of procedure, make sure you check with the classroom teacher. Drills are serious responsibilities and are not to be thought of as a joke. During both drills, be sure to move quickly and quietly to assigned areas. COUNSELING SERVICES Guidance counseling services are planned to help each student obtain the most out of the school program. All students are encouraged to come to the guid- ance counselors’ office and talk with a counselor regarding any concerns they might have. Often, a counselor helps students with educational program planning, study habits, personal and home concerns, health problems, social questions, career plans, and decision making. Students should feel free to discuss their interests, plans, and difficulties with a counselor. The counselors will also make classroom presentations on topics of interest to all students that will enhance the development of proper school and social growth. At times during the year, some students may be asked to become members of small groups that meet on a regularly scheduled basis with a counselor. Students may also be asked to attend individual sessions whenever a counselor can be of assistance to the student. MEDIA CENTER The purpose of the instructional media center is to provide a variety of materi- als and services to assist staff and students in the teaching - learning process. Any materials borrowed from the media center must be checked out — materials usually have a two week loan period. Please remember, you are responsible for the items you check out. Magazines, newspapers, and resource materials should be returned to the proper place. A fine may be assessed for overdue materials and you may be asked to pay replacement costs for items lost. CLINIC/HEALTH SERVICES A health clinic is available, for limited use, for those students who become ill or injured during the school day. Children with contagious illnesses or fevers should not be sent to school. Students with a temperature of 100º or above will be sent home. Students must be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school. Please take care of injuries prior to sending your child to school. Health records should be updated promptly as needed during the school year. Emergency informa- tion should also be current. The student should know the family physician, hospital preference, and how to reach a parent in the event of illness or accident. Clinic facilities and the service of the clinic staff are not to be abused. If a student visits the clinic too frequently, the parent will be notified regarding a possible physical or emotional problem. If medication is to be taken at school (including over-the-counter drugs such as Tylenol or aspirin), an official permission slip must be returned. Medication will only be dispensed after following the requirements listed on the medication permit. The permit is available by contacting the school nurse. No medication, including over-the-counter medication, is to be in students’ possession during school hours, except for that which is considered to be life-saving medication, as prescribed by a physician. A physician’s order must be on file with the school in order for a child to possess such medication. A parent will need to deliver and pick up any medication needed during the school day. (For more information, refer to our Medication Pol- icy.) Annually, the county-wide nurse conducts vision testing for all first and third grade students, and students new to the Huntington County Community School Corporation. All fifth grade students are checked for scoliosis. CARE/PROTECTION OF SCHOOL/PERSONAL PROPERTY Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, and furni- ture supplied by the school. Students who disfigure property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage done. Print your name in ink on all books, tablets, gym shoes, and folders for which you are responsible. Do not bring things of great value from home. Do not bring large sums of money from home. Secure all personal property in lockers during the school day (If available). GYM CLASSES Non-marking gym shoes shall be worn in all gym classes. If, for any reason, a child should be unable to participate (for more than one day), we require a signed excuse from your physician. LOST AND FOUND Throughout the school year, many items are turned in to the office as lost and found items. Valuable items which have been found will be kept in the office and need to be identified for collection. Other items such as: clothing, lunch boxes, and recess equipment will be placed in a collection area designated by school person- nel. At the end of each nine weeks, any items which have not been claimed will be taken to charitable organizations or used in our clinic/health office. Owners may regain lost articles by checking the collection area or calling at the office and identi- fying the items. OFFICE AND TEACHERS’ ROOMS Students shall not be behind desks/counters in the office except by permis- sion. Likewise, the teachers’ room is for the use of teachers and staff members only. Students are not permitted in the room. HONOR ROLL As a student at our elementary school, you work very hard to achieve the goals you have set for yourself. Your teachers, counselors, and principals would like to honor you for your diligent efforts. Students in grades 3-5 must receive a ―B‖ or above in all reported subjects to earn the distinction of being placed on the honor roll. The names of honor roll stu- dents are posted and published in the newspaper(s) each nine weeks. REPORT CARDS Report cards are issued every nine weeks. Generally, they are given to the student to take home on Wednesday following the end of the grading period. Par- ents are to sign and return the report card envelopes within a couple days. A child’s failure to return the properly signed envelope may result in disciplinary action. Pro- gress reports are completed by all teachers and sent home at the midpoint of each grading period. PROMOTIONS Students must pass in three (3) of four (4) solid subjects or be recommended for placement into the next grade by the teaching staff. Parent and teacher recom- mendations will be considered, but the final decision rests with the school admini- stration. In addition, the ―Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Pro- gress‖ (ISTEP) and/or the NWEA Test will have a major influence on our decision. PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Conferences are held at the request of the teachers or parents to confer about the student’s progress. Teachers are available for conferences at a time to be mutu- ally arranged and also during their plan period. Teachers’ plan periods are sched- uled for various hours of the school day. Conference appointments requested by parents should be made 24 hours in advance. GOAL SETTING AND STUDENT LED CONFERENCES Each fall the elementary schools provide the opportunity for parents and stu- dents to set a social goal and academic goals in language arts and math. During the second semester, each school will conduct student led conferences. Each student is given the opportunity to walk his/her parents or guardians through a port- folio or collection of work collected over the course of the school year. Children are a critical component of these valuable experiences. Our goal is 100% parent and student participation. Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher anytime concerns necessitate a meeting. HOMEWORK REQUESTS Homework is an out-of-school assignment that contributes to the educational development of the student. It should be an extension of the class work and related to the objectives of the curriculum presently being studied. Homework may include additional practice exercises, reading of material on a specified subject or unit, an in -depth extension of classroom activities, or independent project work. Assignment/ Agenda notebooks are required for all students in grades 3-5. Homework requests must be received by 10:00 a.m. (through the main office) in order to receive the assignments at the end of the school day. Normally, a stu- dent must be absent three (3) consecutive days before homework will be sent home. 4 IDEAS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD WITH HOMEWORK 1. Communication between home and school will make homework more effec- tive. 2. Provide your child with suitable study conditions (desk or table, adequate lighting, books, and supplies). 3. Reserve a time for homework and provide an area free from distractions. 4. Encourage your child to do his/her personal best. BOOK RENTAL The school is on a book rental system. Everyone is urged to pay the rental fee at the time of registration. If parents are unable to pay at the time of registra- tion, they must sign a promissory note. The students are responsible for the books assigned to them. All books must be returned in good order or a penalty fee, as established by the book rental manager, will be assessed. Parents will be notified of the final date for paying book rental fees. LUNCH PROGRAM The school has a lunch program for all students. All sack lunches from home are to be eaten in the lunch room area. Use plastic containers only — no soft drinks or red dye based fruit drinks are allowed. Food is not to be taken from the cafeteria, nor consumed at any time other than lunch, without specific permission from a staff member on a special occa- sion. WITHDRAWALS To withdraw from school, a parent must notify school personnel so records can be completed and sent to the school where the student is transferring. AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS Events are for members of the organization only. You are to be picked up after the function by a member of your family or someone authorized by them. VISITORS Parents are welcome to visit the school or the classroom. It is always a source of better understanding for parents, teachers, and administrators to be- come better acquainted. Please call the office or contact the teacher (other than class time please) a day in advance to make arrangements for an extended visit or conference. Since the safety of all our students and staff is our primary con- cern, we require that you always report to the office immediately upon your arrival. VOLUNTEERS Our schools are very fortunate to have many community members who are willing to give of their time and talents. Volunteers are very key people in our efforts to provide a quality education. All volunteers are required to report to and sign-in at the front office. We ask that you wear a name tag so our staff members will have the opportunity to get to know you. CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE It is very important that all students notify the office immediately of any change of address or telephone number. If a student moves outside the school district, he/she should attend school in the district in which he/she resides. CLOSING SCHOOL In the event of snow or any weather condition which causes school to be delayed or cancelled, an announcement will be made on various radio/TV sta- tions. The release of such information is made to the media as soon as such a decision is reached. Do not call the school! Lines need to be open to remain in contact with Central Office and the Transportation Department. Radio stations with closing information include: WOWO (1190 AM), WMEE (97 FM), WMRI (107 FM), WBTU (93.3 FM) Television stations with closing information include: WANE (15), WPTA (21), WKJG (33), WFFT (55) EARLY DISMISSAL Each year we distribute an Early Dismissal Form. This form is to be com- pleted by the child’s parent or guardian and informs the school as to what a child should do in the event of an early dismissal. Please return the early dismissal form as soon as possible. It is vital that you and your child have prearranged what he/she should do. The form should indicate what your child should do if it is different from his/her regular routine. Please do not indicate who he/she should call. Under the best of circumstances, we would not have time to call for individual students, and there is always the possibility of the phones not working. ATTENDANCE In order to receive a complete and well-rounded education, it is essential that students be present in school on a regular basis. Consequently, every child between the ages of seven (7) and sixteen (16) is required to attend school unless legally sufficient reasons exist for nonattendance pursuant to Indiana’s Compulsory Attendance Statute. For more information, please find enclosed the complete HCCSC Attendance Policy. CHANGE IN ROUTINE FOR STUDENT If a student is to go home after school in a way that is not his/her normal routine (bus instead of walking or vice versa, different bus, or someone picking the student up, etc.), or if the student is to go home with a friend or to a neighbor’s or relative’s house instead of his/her own, it is important that the child’s parent send a note making absolutely clear that it is the parent’s wish for this change in routine to take place. Students must have a note from their parent/guardian if they are to ride a different bus. This note must be submitted to the student’s school office and signed/stamped by the building administrator prior to boarding the bus. Upon boarding the bus, this authorized note must be presented to the bus driver. For the safety of our students we will make every effort not to allow a change in routine unless we hear from the parent. REQUEST TO LEAVE SCHOOL A request to have a child excused from school early should be sent with the child on the morning of the early dismissal. The time and reason for leaving should be included. A child will be released only to the parents unless the school has been noti- fied by the parents that they have granted permission for someone else to pick up their child. All students will be dismissed through the office. All visitors must report to the office immediately upon entering the school and are not to report to classrooms. The person picking the child up will need to sign him/her out. This gives the school an up-to-the-minute account of all students in the event of an emergency. RECESS Recess will be held outside unless weather demands it be inside. If the temperature or wind chill factor is below 20 degrees, inside recess will automati- cally be in effect. Other possible reasons for inside recess are rain, excessive snow, ice, etc. CITIZENSHIP It is each student’s responsibility to display qualities of good citizenship. Your best conduct is expected in the halls, in the cafeteria, on the playground, in the classroom, and when leaving school grounds. Teachers desire that students become good citizens, and therefore, will give special emphasis to honesty, mo- rality, and courtesy. Obedience to law, respect to our country’s flag, appreciation of the Constitution of the United States, respect for parents and home, and recog- nition of the dignity and necessity of honest labor are characteristics expected of all our students. FLAG ETIQUETTE The Flag represents the hard work and sacrifice of millions of Americans who have helped make the United States one of the greatest powers in the world’s history. The Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem have deep meaning for all Americans. Saying the Pledge and singing the Anthem are tradi- tional ways for all people to state their loyalty and love for the United States and its Flag as well as their beliefs in its Democratic principles. The Pledge of Alle- giance and the Anthem requires us to stand with the right hand over the heart. Civilians should always show full respect to the Flag by standing at attention and men should always remove their hats. 5 ANNUAL LETTER OF NOTIFICATION FOR ASBESTOS The Huntington County Community School Corporation has had asbestos management plans prepared for all school buildings in the district. These plans are available for your inspection Monday through Friday, during regular school days, and normal school hours at the Administrative Service Center, and with five (5) days notice Monday through Friday at each school office. Quite often, the local school office copy will be made available upon your request. In March, 1995, a periodic surveillance was conducted in each school build- ing to inspect the condition of asbestos and no changes of condition were noted. In March, 1995, ATEC & Associates, Inc. conducted a three year reinspection of all asbestos at each school building. Their accredited inspectors not only checked the condition of asbestos, but reassessed operations and maintenance procedures that will keep this asbestos containing material in good condition. Should you have any further questions, you may contact Ron Brinneman, Director of Maintenance, who is the designated person for asbestos, located at the Administrative Service Center, 1360 North Warren Road, Huntington, Indi- ana. The telephone number is (260) 356-7812. CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT The Indiana Juvenile Code requires any individual who has reason to be- lieve a child is a victim of child abuse or neglect to report it to Child Protective Services. All school personnel are obligated under this law. Any staff member who has reason to believe that a child is a victim of abuse or neglect should notify the principal or the principal’s designee (can be a counselor) to file a report immediately with the Child Protection Services. The concept of privileged com- munication does not apply where child abuse and neglect are concerned. Re- porting sources are provided immunity from criminal and civil liability as long as reports are made in good faith. Reporting sources remain anonymous during investigations but may be required to testify in court if court action becomes necessary. In the event that any staff member has reason to believe that a child is being physically or sexually abused by an employee of a public or private institu- tion, the staff member will follow the same reporting procedure outlined above. NOTIFICATION OF PARENTS AND STUDENTS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 TO PARENTS AND STUDENTS: On August 21, 1974, the United States Congress adopted the ―Family Edu- cational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974‖ dealing with student records. In broad outline, this act provides for the following: 1. The act concerns the student records of both elementary and secon- dary schools. 2. The parents’ right under this act extends until the student is 18 years of age or is enrolled in a post-high school institution; thereafter, only the student may exercise the rights. 3. Parents have the right to examine their children’s records at reason- able times. 4. The parent has a right to have a record corrected if it is inaccurate, misleading, or is otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of students. 5. A record must be kept for each student showing who examined it, the date on which it was examined, and the purpose of the examination. 6. Certain persons may examine student records without parent’s con- sent. School officials, including teachers who have legitimate educa- tional interests, officials of other schools or school systems where a transfer is made, and certain representatives to the State and Federal Government, with various limitations. 7. Any person may receive the records, if the parent(s) execute a written consent specifying the records to be released, the reasons for such release, and the person to whom they are to be released. A copy will be sent to the parents in such case if requested. Parent(s) may also request and receive a copy of any student record forwarded to an- other school or school system with a transfer. 8. A copy may also be furnished pursuant to a court order or subpoena, but only if a reasonable effort is made to provide the parents and/or student with advance notice. The Board of School Trustees has adopted policy implementing this act. A copy of this policy and the act are available for inspection at the Office of the Superintendent of Schools or online at www.hccsc.k12.in.us (click on Board Policies). PARENTAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION RECORDS Indiana Code 20-33-7 provides for the following: SEC. 1. as used in this chapter, ―education records‖ means information that: 1. is recorded by a nonpublic or public school; and 2. concerns a student who is or was enrolled in the school. SEC. 2(a) except as provided in subsection (b), a nonpublic or public school must allow a custodial parent and a noncustodial parent of a child the same access to their child’s education records. (c) A nonpublic or public school may not allow a noncustodial parent access to the child’s education records if: (1)a court has issued an order that limits the noncustodial parent’s access to the child’s education records; and (2)the school has received a copy of the court order or has actual knowledge of the court order. MEDICATION POLICY State Law regarding medication: The Attorney General has stated in refer- ence to the Acts of 1949, Chapter 196, Section 2, that anyone giving medication who is not a licensed physician is practicing medicine illegally. This includes teachers, nurses, or other school personnel who give children any medicine, including aspirin, without a physician’s order. Procedure for dispensing medication at schools: 1. No prescription medication shall be given or dispensed unless the dispensing school personnel has on file a medication au- thorization form signed and completed by the doctor and legal custodian of the child. Such consent shall be valid for no more than one (1) year. Parent may withdraw consent (in writing) at any time. 2. At each school, two (2) delegated individuals should have the sole responsibility of giving or dispensing all medication. One (1) should normally do the dispensing with the other available if needed. 3. All medication prescribed for an individual child should be kept in the original container bearing the original pharmacy label and the child’s name. The pharmacist will provide an additional bottle with proper label, upon request. 4. All medication should be kept in a secure place, inaccessible to students. 5. All medication should be destroyed or returned to the legal cus- todian when no longer useful or needed. Destruction of the medication should be done in such a manner as to ensure no other student can obtain possession of it. The school corpora- tion can no longer, under state law, send home medication with a student when it is no longer needed or at the end of the school year. Medication that is kept at the school for administration during school hours or at school functions for a student in grades kindergarten through grade 8 may be released only to: A. The student’s parent; or B. An individual who is at least 18 years of age; and designated in writing by the student’s parent to receive the medication. 6. Students with a chronic disease or medical condition may pos- sess and self-administer medication for the chronic disease or medical condition during school hours or at school functions if the following conditions are met: A. The student’s parent has filed an authorization with the school for the student to possess and self- administer the medication. B. A physician states in writing that: 1. the student has an acute or chronic dis- ease or medical condition for which the physician has prescribed medication; 2. the student has been instructed in how to self-administer the medication; and 3. the nature of the disease or medical condi- tion requires emergency administration of the medication. C. The authorization and statement described in subsec- tions A and B must be filed with the student’s school annually. 6 LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS No student is allowed to leave school grounds at any time without per- mission. Permission to leave can only be granted by administrators or personnel appointed by them and the school nurse. STUDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY ATTENDANCE & DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES ATTENDANCE POLICY Students are expected to attend school regularly to derive maximum benefits from the instructional program. Since business, industry, and the professions expect and demand a high level of attendance and time-on-task, the education of students must reflect those expectations and responsibilities. Through the combined efforts of parents, students, and the school, the goals of punctuality, self-discipline, and re- sponsibility can be developed as students are prepared for entry into the adult world. The school corporation considers the development of good attendance habits as a vital and desirable undertaking for two essential reasons. First, it is difficult for young people to learn if they are not in class: the teaching – learning process builds upon itself. Secondly, research shows that educational achievement is directly re- lated to attendance. A student who misses a day of school, misses a day of educa- tion that cannot be retrieved in its entirety. All parties involved in the education of students should assist in the maintenance of excellent attendance and the development of self-discipline. Promoting and foster- ing desired attendance habits requires a commitment from everyone. A professional staff member’s responsibility includes, but is not limited to: A. providing meaningful learning experiences every day; B. speaking frequently of the importance of students being in class, on time, and ready to participate; C. keeping accurate attendance records; D. incorporating daily student participation as part of the learning process; E. requiring that quizzes, tests, and pertinent assignments be completed and sub- mitted within the specified period for make-up work. EXEMPT ABSENCES Exempt absences will not be counted toward the ten (10) day maximum for each school year. The Huntington County Community School Corporation and/or State of Indiana considers an absence to be exempt for the following reasons (IC 20-8.1-3- 18, 20-8.1-3-22): Serving as a page in the General Assembly. Serving at the polls on Election Day. Court appearances documented by a probation officer or officer of the court. Religious observances. Doctor or dental appointments verified by a physician or dentist. (This in- cludes other medical absences approved by the school and verified by a physician.) College visitations by seniors and second-semester juniors (limit of two (2) per year) with prior approval. National Guard duty for not more than ten (10) days per school year. PARENT/GUARDIAN REPORTED ABSENCES A Parent/Guardian reported absence is when a parent calls the school to report the student absent, and the reason for the absence does not meet the criteria listed above as ―exempt‖ absences. Parent/Guardian reported absences are considered unexcused absences by the State. The state views all absences as unexcused other than those that fall under the exempt category. The state allows each stu- dent 10 absences per school year (excluding exempt days) that the parent can manage. Any absences beyond the 10 days can fall under the definition of habitu- ally truant. Parents are responsible to account for their children’s absences and reasons for such absences. (IC 20-33-2-18) Parents must contact the office of the school from which their children are to be absent, within one (1) hour of the start of the school day. The school will make a reasonable effort to contact those who have not reported their children absent. In cases where a parent does not have a tele- phone, the school must receive a signed written excuse upon the child’s return to school. If no communication is received within twenty-four (24) hours after a stu- dent’s return to school, that child’s absence will be considered truant. In considera- tion of the state compulsory attendance laws the school corporation has adopted the following attendance guidelines. Pre-Arranged Absences – Family Vacations- Students must be in school to de- rive the maximum benefit from their educational experience. The school corporation strongly discourages students to miss instructional time in order to accompany parents or guardians on vacations. These days will be counted as part of the ten (10) days of parent/guardian reported absences. Such absences may be approved, provided they meet the following guidelines. A. Students must be accompanied by at least one (1) parent or guardian. B. Pre-Arranged Absence Request should be submitted to the office of the school where the student attends, no less than two (2) weeks prior to the first day of the requested absence. C. Prior to administrative review, a student requesting an absence must take the Pre-Arranged Absence Request to each teacher prior to the absence. Teachers should document the student’s current grade and convey any assignments, if known, to the student. To the extent possible, students should complete assign- ments in advance. Next, the parent/guardian must sign the pre-arranged ab- sence request form. Finally, the form should be submitted to the Attendance Office for final review and approval by an administrator. D. A maximum of Five (5) days absence will be permitted for pre-arranged ab- sences. Requested days beyond the maximum will not be approved and will be considered unexcused. E. Only one (1) pre-arranged absence is permitted per student, per school year. F. Pre-arranged requests for the weeks set aside for final examinations and re- quired standardized testing will not be approved. Parents should note that in- clement weather may result in an extended school year. Absences requested during such extensions may not be approved. G. Parents with special circumstances may appeal to the Attendance Committee. This must be done two weeks prior to the vacation. Excessive Absences- A student who accumulates more than ten (10) days of nonexempt absences (including a pre-arranged absence) in the school year, may be considered to be excessively absent or habitually truant. Excessive absences may be referred to the Huntington County Probation Department or the Huntington County Division of Family Services. It is the PARENT’S RESPONSIBILITY to ac- count for their children’s absences and reasons for those absences. Extended and Chronic Illness- Students who have a chronic illness may be ab- sent at various times throughout the year, due to the nature of the illness. Students with a chronic illness must submit a Certificate of Incapacity, completed by a physician. Opportunities to Make up Work- Students will be given the opportunity to make up work missed due to exempt and parent/guardian reported absences. The length of time for completion of make-up work will be commensurate with the length of the absence. Truancy- Truancy demonstrates a deliberate disregard for the educational program and is considered to be a serious matter. A student shall be considered truant each day or part of the day s/he is absent from his/her assigned location without parental knowledge or permission from school personnel. Truancy applies to students who remain in restrooms due to illness. (Students who become ill are to report to class where a pass to the Health Clinic may be obtained.) Students who leave the building without permission granted by school personnel are considered truant. Signing out is not considered permission to leave. (Signing out is what a student is instructed to do after permission to leave school has been granted.) Habitual Truant- A student shall be designated as a habitual truant when the stu- dent has been chronically absent, by having unexcused absences (nonexempt) from school for more than ten (10) days in one (1) school year (Indiana Law effec- tive July 1, 2005). Parent/Guardian reported absences are considered unex- cused by the State. Receiving Truant Students- When a principal receives a truant student during the school day, s/he shall immediately place the student in his/her appropriate class and may not detain the child after school. As promptly as is reasonably possible after placing the child in class, the principal shall attempt to advise the child’s 7 parents of the facts by telephone. In all cases, the principal shall advise the child’s parents of the facts by mail on the same day s/he receives the child. (IC 20-8.1-3- 29,30) Tardiness- Students who are not in their assigned locations at the beginning of the school day must report to the office to sign-in. When school personnel detain a student, preventing him/her from reporting to class without being late, they are to issue a pass or otherwise communicate such circumstances to appropriate staff to prohibit the student from being classified as tardy. A student will be considered tardy rather than absent if s/he is in his/her assigned location within fifteen (15) minutes after the official start of the school day. Students will be considered excessively tardy when they have been tardy four (4) or more times in a semes- ter. Students who are excessively tardy may be assigned reasonable conse- quences as determined by the building administration. Tardies other than at the start of the school day or the student’s arrival to school will be handled by the classroom teacher. Recording and Reporting Requirements- An accurate daily record of atten- dance must be kept in each school. IC 20-8.1-3-25 ATTENDANCE REVIEW COMMITTEE All schools shall have an attendance review committee. This committee will re- view special cases and make recommendations to the principal. The principal is the official attendance officer of the school and his/her decision is final ATTENDANCE/PARTICIPATION The school assumes that a student who is unable to attend school because of illness will also be unable to attend extracurricular functions later the same day. Note: Perfect attendance is defined as: Present and on time for each class. The only exceptions would be in the case of a school related function, such as a field trip. DRESS CODE Students are allowed to wear clothing that does not disrupt the learning process and is in good taste. Throughout life, many social responsibilities dictate appropriate attire and appearance. In keeping with this concept, faculty and staff expect students’ appearance at school to reflect neatness, cleanliness, and ap- propriate dress. In addition, students should consider the temperature controlled environment of some buildings and the current weather conditions in choosing appropriate dress that will not only comply with dress code regulations but will also make provision for the students’ health and comfort. Violators of the dress code will be sent to the principal or assistant princi- pals’ office. The building principal is the final judge of appropriate attire. Students will be asked to wear clothing the school has available. If appropriate attire cannot be obtained, the students will be assigned to supervised study for the remainder of the day. Repeated violations of the dress code will subject a student to further disciplinary action. School attire should conform to the following general regulations which are not intended to be all inclusive: A. Health and Safety 1. Unsafe clothing or wearing apparel should not be worn during the school day or at school activities. 2. Shoes must be worn. 3. Outdoor jackets/coats are not to be worn to class. B. Appropriate Dress 1. Students will not be permitted to display on their person, binders, books, handbooks, and other like items — or to wear clothing/apparel that glorifies, advertises, or promotes the use of or engagement in alcohol, tobacco, illegal sub stances, sexual conduct, violence (such as WWF or other professional wrestling organizations), gang symbols and/or signs, or related activities. 2. Students will not be permitted to wear clothing or apparel depicting or expressing obscenities or satanic references. 3. Students will not be permitted to wear apparel, jewelry, or any other item(s), including extremely dark lipstick and/or fingernail polish, coloring of hair, glitter, and stickers/ tattoos, that disrupts the learning atmosphere, is not in good taste, or could prove injurious to oneself or other stu dents — this could include nose rings, body rings, chains attached to such rings, or chains attached to pocket watches or billfolds. 4. Shorts will be allowed at appropriate times (times will be announced by administration). Athletic shorts, biking shorts, short shorts, or similar types of shorts (to those already listed) are not allowed. 5. Clothing that has been cut, ripped, torn, manufactured with holes, or consists of see-through materials is not permitted. 6. Extremely baggy and/or sagging pants will not be allowed. This may include other types of clothing that may be very large or baggy in nature. 7. Tank tops, blouses, shirts, or dresses with open backs, low necklines, thin straps, strapless, open down the sides, or of bare midriff design are not allowed. 8. Tight-fitting, leotard-like pants are not permitted unless a dress or long top is worn over the pants. 9. Students are not allowed to wear hats, sunglasses, or vi- sors in the building. 10. For students’ safety, footwear must provide a firm walking surface and good balance. Shoes must be secured to the front and back of the foot by strap or full enclosure. C. Maintenance of School Plant 1. Footwear or items of clothing that would damage furniture, floors, or walls are in violation of the dress code. BASIC CONDUCT RULES A few fundamental rules are essential for the successful operation of any organization. If everyone obeys these few rules, which are not intended to be all- inclusive, your hours at school will be more enjoyable: 1. Running, shouting, loud-talking, whistling, and boisterous laughing in halls will not be tolerated. 2. Always remove hats upon entering the building. 3. No one is to be in the halls during class time without permission and a hall pass. 4. The contents of desks and lockers are an individual’s personal posses sion. However, lockers and other storage areas provided remain the property of the school and are subject to inspection. Further informa tion can be found in the search and seizure section of the handbook. 5. No possession/use of tobacco in the building or on the school grounds at any time. 6. There will be no snowballing at any time on school grounds. 7. No gum/candy. 8. Do not deface or damage school property. 9. No radios, headphones, tape players, CD players, cellular phones, beepers, electronic games, or other pieces of electronic equipment that may disrupt the learning atmosphere (unless specifically re- quested by teachers). 10. No baseball cards or other types of collectibles (unless specifically requested by teachers). 11. Use of profanity and/or other objectionable language will not be toler ated. 12. Fighting will not be allowed — you can expect stern disciplinary action if you are involved. 13. Gleeking or spitting will not be tolerated. 14. Students are to only be in supervised areas throughout the school day and at school functions. 15. Disruption in the classroom, of any type, is a violation of school rules and the Indiana Code. 16. Truancy—students truant from school may suffer the penalty of re- duced grade(s) for the grading period. The reduction will be at the discretion of the administrator(s), individual teacher, and/or teacher teams. 17. No toy guns, knives, or weapons of any kind should be brought to school. 18. Bullying and other forms of harassment are prohibited. 8 19. No hairstyles or colors that distract from the educational process, such as mohawk hairstyles or colors outside of the normal hair colors (example: green). DISCIPLINARY ACTION The following are possible disciplinary actions to school personnel. When administering discipline, the student’s age, severity of the offense, and any previous misconduct will be considered. In all cases, it is deemed important that student safety is preserved and that consequences correspond with the consid- erations listed above. Consequences available to school personnel in matters of discipline include, but are not limited to, the following actions: • Counseling with a student or group of students • Conferences with a parent or group of parents • Assignment of additional work • Rearrangement of class schedule • Requiring students to remain in school after school hours to do additional school work or for counseling • Restriction of extracurricular activities • Removal from class • Assignment of a special course of study or to an alternative education pro- gram • Corporal punishment • Removal from school-sponsored transportation • Referral to juvenile authorities • Suspension from school • Expulsion from school DISCIPLINE REFERRAL SLIPS Discipline referral slips are forms that teachers fill out when sending a stu- dent to administration for discipline. Many times these will be shared with parents so the school and the parent can work as a team in correcting problems. TEACHER SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS Each teacher shall, when students are under his/her charge, have the right to take any action reasonably necessary to prevent an interference with the edu- cational function of which he/she is in charge. CORPORAL PUNISHMENT The Law of Indiana clearly accords to the public school teacher, in proper cases, the same right over a child in his/her school as is possessed by the parent, and this includes the right to administer corporal punishment when it is appropri- ate. The law is well settled in this state that the teacher stands in loco parentis to the child, and his/her authority in this respect is no more subject to question than is the authority of the parent. The teacher’s authority and the kind and quantum of punishment employed to meet a given offense is measured by the same rules, standards, and requirements as fixed and established for parents. Indiana Supreme Court-Case of Indiana State Personnel Board V. Jackson, 192 N.E.2d 740, 743-744 (IND. 1963) Corporal punishment is reserved for cases where the administration be- lieves it to be effective in helping a child change his/her conduct pattern. 1. Corporal punishment shall be administered in the presence of the principal, assistant principal, or administrative assistant. This is not to be done in the presence of other students. 2. After the reasons for the punishment have been explained to the wit- ness to his/her satisfaction, and the student has been given the oppor- tunity to explain his/her conduct, the punishment is administered. 3. Students who refuse corporal punishment as a method of disciplinary action, may receive a three (3) day out-of-school suspension. If a parent refuses corporal punishment as a method of disciplinary action for his/her child, an out-of-school suspension for their child may also be utilized. OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION 1. Students receiving out-of-school suspension (OSS) will be able to make up work missed. Credit for completed assignments will be at the discretion of individual teacher(s) and/or teacher teams. 2. During the OSS period, students are not permitted on school property. 3. Students may not participate in any extracurricular activities for the entire duration of the suspension period. 4. The parent/guardian must contact the school to discuss the necessary pro- cedures for the student’s re-entry into school. GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION Grounds for suspension or expulsion are student misconduct and/or sub- stantial disobedience. Examples of student misconduct and/or substantial disobe- dience for which a student may be suspended or expelled include, but are not limited to: 1. Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, pas- sive resistance, or other comparable conduct constituting an interfer- ence with school purposes, or urging other students to engage in such conduct. The following enumeration is only illustrative and not limited to the type of conduct prohibited by these rules: A. Occupying any school building, school grounds, or part thereof with intent to deprive others of its use. B. Blocking the entrance or exits of any school building or corridor or room therein with intent to deprive others of lawful access to or from, or use of the building, corridor, or room. C. Setting fire to or damaging any school building or property. D. Prevention of or attempting to prevent by physical act the con- vening or continued functioning of any school or educational function, or of any meeting or assembly on school property. E. Continuously and intentionally making noise or acting in any manner so as to interfere seriously with the ability of any teacher or any of the other school personnel to conduct the educational function under their supervision. 2. Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property, stealing or attempting to steal school property. 3. Causing or attempting to cause damage to private property, stealing or attempting to steal private property. 4. Disorderly conduct by a student(s) which interferes materially or sub- stantially with the operations of the school by defacing or destroying school property by rioting, breaking-in, sitting-in, lying-in, smashing-in, or picketing to force students not to cross picket lines. Disorderly conduct shall mean any unlawful student assemblage; or group act of violence, disruption, vandalism, or any building seizure; or interference with the functioning of school personnel or any student or group of students. 5. Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury or intention- ally behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Self-defense or reasonable action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person does not, however, constitute a violation of this rule. 6. Threatening or intimidating any student for any purpose, including obtaining money or anything of value from the student. 7. Performing any act of coercing another, including the victim, to perform any act of initiation into any class, group, or organization that causes or creates a risk of causing mental, emotional, or physical harm. 8. Possessing, handling, transmitting, or failure to report knowledge of a weapon or object represented to be a weapon. A weapon means any object which, in the manner in which it is used, intended to be used, or represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons. Weapons include, but are not limited to firearms, guns of any type— including loaded or unloaded air and gas powered guns—knives, ra- zors, clubs, electric weapons, metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons, ammunitions, and explosives. A knife is defined as an instrument that: (1) consists of a sharp edge or sharp pointed blade capable of inflicting cutting, stabbing, or tearing wounds; and (2) is intended to be used as a weapon. Elementary School Note: A student who must use a knife as part of an organized activity held by an organization that has been approved by the principal of the school is exempt so long as the knife is used as part of or in accordance with the approved organized activity. 9. Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, mari- juana, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind. Use of any drug authorized by a medical prescription from a physician for the individual using the drug is not a violation of the rule. Elementary School Note: Further information regarding the school’s policy with regard to violation of the above can be found in this hand book under the title ―Student Assistance Policy.‖ 10. Engaging in the unlawful selling of a controlled substance or engaging in a criminal law violation that constitutes a danger to other students or 9 constitutes an interference with school purposes or an e d u c a t i o n a l function. Elementary School Note: Knowingly possess, use, provide, or transmit to another person or be under the influence of any substance which is, looks like, or which is or was represented to be a tobacco product, nar cotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, substance containing alcohol, heavily-based caf feine product, substance containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), ster oid, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. Use of a drug au thorized by a medical prescription from a physician is not a violation of the above policy. 11. Failing in a substantial number of instances to comply with directions of teachers or other school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under their supervision, where the failure constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function. 12. Engaging in any activity, on or off school grounds, forbidden by the laws of Indiana, that constitutes an inference with school purposes or an educational function. 13. Violating or repeatedly violating any rules that are reasonably necessary in carrying out school purposes or an educational function and are es- tablished in accordance with Indiana Law, including, but not limited to: A. Disobedience of administrative authority. B. Willful absence or tardiness of students. C. Use of abusive and/or vulgar language, indecent language, or language which can reasonably be foreseen as likely to cause a substantial disruption or interference with school purposes or an educational function. Elementary School Note: Engaging in speech or conduct, i n - cluding clothing, jewelry, or hairstyle which is profane, indecent, lewd, vulgar, or offensive to school purposes. D. Refusing to identify him/herself to any teacher, member of the administration staff, or any other authorized person. E. Possessing, using, or transmitting any substance which is repre- sented to be or looks like a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, stimu- lant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind (see Student Assistance Policy). F. Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of caffeine-based substance, substance containing phenylpropanola- mine (PPA), or stimulants of any kind, be they available with or without a prescription (see Student Assistance Policy). G. Throwing objects on school grounds, at or from a school bus, or in buildings, in such a way as to be threatening to the general safety of students, others, and school personnel. H. Engaging in voluntary or consensual sexually-related activity on school property may result in suspension or expulsion; public displays of affection will not be allowed. Elementary School Note: Engaging in harassment of another person, which includes sexually-related statements, gestures and/ or physical contact, as well as racial/ethnic remarks. I. Using, selling, or possession of a tobacco product(s) on school property. J. Cheating or plagiarizing may result in failing grades on the assign- ment or test, failing the course for the nine-weeks, or in severe cases, removal from class with loss of credit, supervised study or out-of-school suspension or expulsion. K. Writing unauthorized passes/notes, possessing blank or forged passes/notes or distributing blank or forged passes/notes to other students who could use the passes/notes in an unauthorized man- ner may result in the following penalties: Saturday school, super- vised study, out-of-school suspension, or recommendation for expulsion. 14. Knowingly possessing or using on school grounds, during school hours, an electronic paging device or a hand-held portable telephone in a situation not related to a school purpose or educational function. Elementary School Note: Any paging device or portable telephone confiscated may be kept by the school administration until the conclu- sion of the school year. The elementary school is not financially respon- sible for confiscated electronic devices not claimed by the rightful owner on the last day of school. 15. Preventing gang activity - presence of gangs and gang activities can cause a substantial disruption to school and school activities. A ―gang‖ is defined as any group of students who are perceived as a distinct group (not an approved organization), which prompts a disruptive re- sponse in the school community. The following rules act to prevent disruption and to prohibit gang activities by restricting those actions which foster such activities or which, because they may be per- formed in relation to gang activities, endanger even those students who do not intend to show gang membership or affiliation. No student on school property or at any school activity: A. Shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, drawing, graffiti, or other items which may be viewed as evidence of membership or affilia- tion in a gang. B. Shall commit any act or omission, or use any speech, either verbal or nonverbal (gestures, handshakes, drawings, graffiti, other writ- ten communications, etc.) showing membership or affiliation in a gang. C. Shall use any speech or commit any act or omission in promoting the interests of any gang or gang activity, including but not limited to soliciting others for membership in any gangs, intimidating or threatening any person, and violating any other rules as stated in the handbook. Violating any of the above gang prevention rules may result in suspen- sion or expulsion. 16. Possessing a Firearm: A. No student shall possess, handle, or transmit any firearm on school property. B. The following devices are considered to be a firearm under this rule: • Any weapon that will, or is designed to, or may readily be converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. • The frame or receiver of any weapon described above. • Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer. • Any destructive device which is an explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or similar device. • Any weapon that will, or that may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by action of an explosive or other propellant, and that has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter. • Any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in con- verting any device into any destructive device described in the two immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive de vice may be readily assembled. • An antique firearm. • A rifle or a shotgun which the owner intends to use solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes. C. The penalty for possession of a firearm: Suspension up to ten (10) days and expulsion from school for at least one (1) calendar year with the return of the student to be at the begin ning of the first semester after the one (1) year period. The length of the expulsion may be reduced by the superintendent if the circumstances warrant such reduction. D. The superintendent shall notify the County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office when a student is expelled under the above stated rule. 17. Possessing a Deadly Weapon: A. No student shall possess, handle, or transmit any deadly weapon on school grounds. B. The following devices are considered to be deadly weapons as defined in I.C. 35-41-1-8: • A weapon, laser, or electronic stun weapon, equipment, chemical substance, or other material that in the manner it is used, or could ordi- narily be used, or is intended to be used, is readily capable of caus- ing serious bodily injury. • An animal readily capable of causing serious bodily injury a n d used in the commission or attempted commission of a crime. C. The penalty for possession of a deadly weapon: Up to ten (10) day- suspension and/or expulsion from school for a period of not more than one (1) calendar year. D. The superintendent shall notify the County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office when a student is expelled under this rule. 10 18. Student’s Legal Settlement not in Attendance Area: A student may be expelled from school if the student’s legal settlement is not in the atten- dance area of the school corporation where the student is enrolled. As added by IC 20-33-8-17. 19. Bullying is prohibited in all HCCSC elementary schools. Bullying is defined by the Act as ―overt, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal or written communications transmitted; physical act committed; or any other behaviors committed by student or group of students against another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the other student.‖ This rule will apply when a student is on school grounds immediately before or during school hours, immediately after school hours or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group, off school grounds at a school activity, function or event; traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or using property or equipment provided by the school. While literally, the latter phrase means that when a student is using a computer or laptop provided by the school at his home and another student bullies the student using the computer, it would violate the rule. Senate Enrolled Act 285 (SEA 285) 20. Additional Disciplinary Actions Authorized: This section applies to a person who: A. Is a member of the administrative staff, a teacher, or B. Has students under the person’s charge. A person may take disciplinary action in addition to suspension and expul- sion that is necessary to ensure a safe, orderly, and effective educational environ- ment. Disciplinary action under this section may include the following: A. Counseling with a student or group of students; B. Conferences with a parent or group of parents; C. Assigning additional work; D. Rearranging class schedules; E. Requiring a student to remain in school after regular school hours to do additional school work or for counseling; and F. Restricting extracurricular activities. The Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion listed above (#1-19) apply when a student is: A. On school grounds immediately before, during, and immediately after school hours and at any other time when the school is being used by a school group; B. Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event; or C. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event. In addition to the grounds listed above, a student may be suspended or ex- pelled for engaging in unlawful activity, on or off school grounds, if the unlawful activity may reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or the student’s removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting the above criteria which takes place during weekends, holidays, other school breaks, and the summer period when a student may not be attending classes or other school functions. SUSPENSION PROCEDURES When an administrator (or designee) determines that a student should be suspended, the following procedures will be followed: 1. A meeting will be held prior to the suspension of any student. At this meeting, the student will be entitled to: A. A written or oral statement of the charges; B. If the student denies the charges, a summary of the evidence against the student will be presented; and, C. The student will be provided an opportunity to explain his or her con duct. 2. The meeting shall precede suspension of the student except where the nature of the misconduct requires immediate removal. In such situa- tions, the meeting will follow the suspension as soon as reasonably possible following the date of the suspension. 3. Following the suspension, the parent or guardian of a suspended student will be notified in writing. The notification will include the dates of the suspension, describe the student’s misconduct, and the action taken by the administrator (or designee). EXPULSION PROCEDURES When an administrator (or designee) recommends to the superintendent (or designee) that a student be expelled from school, the following procedures will be followed: 1. The superintendent (or designee) may conduct an expulsion meeting, or may appoint one of the following persons to conduct the expulsion meeting: A. Legal counsel; B. A member of the administrative staff who did not expel the student during the current school year and was not involved in the events giving rise to the expulsion. 2. An expulsion will not take place until the student and the student’s parent are given notice of their right to appear at an expulsion meeting conducted by the superintendent or the person designated above. Failure by a student or a student’s parent to request and to appear at this meeting will be deemed a waiver of right administratively to contest the expulsion or to appeal it to the school board. 3. The notice of the right to an expulsion meeting will be in writing, deliv- ered by certified mail or by personal delivery, and contain the reasons for the expulsion and the procedure for requesting the meeting. 4. At the expulsion meeting, the administrator (or designee) will present evidence to support the charges against the student. The student or parent will have the opportunity to answer the charges against the student and to present evidence to support the student’s position. 5. If an expulsion meeting is held, the person conducting the expulsion meeting will make a written summary of the evidence heard at the meeting, including a recommendation regarding the expulsion, and submit both to the superintendent. The student or parent has the right to appeal the decision of the person con- ducting the expulsion meeting to the school board within ten (10) days of the re- ceipt of notice of the action taken. The student or parent appeal to the school board must be in writing. If an appeal is properly made, the board must consider the appeal unless the board votes not to hear the appeal. If the board hears the appeal, it will consider the written summary of the expulsion meeting and the argu- ments of both the school administration and the student and/or the student’s par- ent. The board will then take any action deemed appropriate. Legal Reference: I.C. 20-33-8 Date Adopted: June 24, 1996 EXPECTED CONDUCT OF STUDENTS ON SCHOOL BUSES To be sure that students are transported safely, certain behavior is expected of all students. Any behavior that interferes with a driver’s ability to operate his/her bus safely, or behavior that jeopardizes the safety or property of one’s self or peers, is considered inappropriate. All students are ex- pected to: 1. Report to their loading locations five (5) minutes prior to scheduled pick- up times. 2. Stay off roadways while waiting for their buses and remain off road ways until buses come to a complete stop. 3. Be seated and remain in their seats, facing forward, while riding. 4. Use voices that are respectful and not disturbing. 5. Keep windows closed unless given permission to open them by their bus drivers. 6. Keep hands and feet to themselves. 7. Carry only permissible items on the bus that can be held in their laps. 8. Ride the buses to which they are assigned. 9. Not throw objects of any kind, within the bus nor from the bus. 10. Put trash in wastebaskets and not leave refuse on the bus. 11. Move away from the roadway and directly onto a sidewalk or toward their houses after disembarking. 12. Cross streets and roadways only in FRONT of buses, and do so at least ten (10) feet from the front. 13. Not damage or deface any part of school buses or the property of others. 14. Not use profane, indecent, or lewd language or gestures. 15. Keep all parts of their bodies within their school buses. 16. Not eat nor drink, and keep all objects out of their mouths. 11 17. Use electronic games and radios only with the permission of their drivers.* 18. Act respectfully toward their drivers and obey their drivers’ direc tives. 19. Not to be in possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or weapons of any kind. *At times, it may help students’ behavior if they stay engaged in a portable game or listening to music. When approved to do so, games are to be played with the sound off and portable stereos are to be used with headphones, so as not to dis- turb the driver or other passengers. Any violation of the bus rules may result in disciplinary action as follows: 1st Offense – Verbal Warning (behavior form goes to student) 2nd Offense – One day suspension from riding the bus 3rd offense – Three day suspension from riding the bus 4th Offense – Five day suspension from riding the bus 5th Offense – Suspension for rest of semester. Parent will be contacted before any suspension begins. It is important to realize that if the child is suspended from one bus, he/she cannot ride another bus during the time of the suspension. This includes transportation for field trips as well as buses for extracurricular activities. Days Absent due to illness during the suspension do not count towards the days suspended. TRANSPORTING LARGE AND DANGEROUS ITEMS Students may transport on school buses, only those items that can be secured out of the aisle and do not obstruct the view of the bus driver. Balloons, large display boards, and other sizable items should be transported to and from school in private vehicles, unless arrangements can be made to accommodate them safely on a bus. Bus drivers have the right to make a determination as to what items may be transported. Students may transport live animals or insects only with prior approval from their school bus drivers. Before such permission is granted, students must ensure that the animals/insects being transported are contained in such a way that they will not escape nor present a safety risk to other riders. It is suggested that animals and insects be taken to and from school in private vehicles. Any items that pose a danger to other occupants or impair the driver’s ability to safely operate the school bus may not be transported on the bus by stu- dents. Glass containers, flammable liquids, dangerous animals, alcoholic bever- ages, drugs, ammunition, explosives, firearms, knives, and any object that can reasonably be construed to be a weapon are examples of items that are forbidden. Notwithstanding the above, if a student, upon boarding a bus notifies his/her driver that he/she is unintentionally in possession of a legal object which is forbidden on the bus or at school, the driver, if practical, will take possession of the object and convey it to the principal upon arriving at school. Consequences, if any, shall be at the discretion of the principal. SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE Students riding a school bus are under the jurisdiction of the school authori- ties the same as if they are in the classroom . This gives the driver of the school bus the same authority as a teacher in the classroom. A bus driver does not have to put up with abusive language, threats, or other misconduct of students and is not required to transport a student that will not conform to the rules and regulations. Indiana Law states a student must attend school between the ages of seven and sixteen. The law states the school corporation may provide transportation to school; it does not say the corporation shall do so. If a student loses his/her school bus privileges, it then becomes the responsibility of the parent or guardian to see that the student attends school or he/she becomes truant and the parent can be prosecuted under the Compulsory Attendance Law. ELIGIBLE PASSENGERS ON SCHOOL BUSES Each student must ride the bus to which he/she has been assigned, unless arrangements have been made to ride as a guest on another bus. To ride as a guest, a student must present to the bus driver, a note from his/her parent that has been validated (signed or stamped) by his/her school’s principal (or designee). In the event of a family emergency, students may be permitted to ride on another bus. When this occurs, the driver of the bus to be ridden will be contacted by the school’s principal or designee to arrange transportation. DISEMBARKING AT A DIFFERENT LOCATION Students are to be delivered only to the locations established as the delivery point on drivers’ routes. A student may not disembark at another location, unless the driver has in his or her possession a signed note from a child’s parents indicating the date and alternate destination for their child. While alternative desti- nations may be used for children on occasion, parents should work cooperatively with the Transportation Department to establish a regular schedule. In emergency cases, a student may be delivered to an alternate destination if the driver is con- tacted by the child’s school and instructed to do so. LOCKER POLICY All lockers and other storage areas provided for student use on school prem- ises remain the property of the school corporation and are provided for the use of students subject to inspection, access for maintenance, and search pursuant to this policy. Lockers are subject to search at any time. Anything found in the course of a search, which is evidence of a violation of student conduct standards or the law, may be seized and: 1. Admitted in evidence in a suspension or expulsion hearing. 2. Turned over to a parent or guardian. 3. Destroyed. 4. Turned over to any law enforcement officer. Students are expected to keep lockers in an orderly fashion and free of de- bris, stickers, etc. Items can only be attached to the inside of lockers with magnets. Do not use tape or any other products that might stick permanently. 1. Students are to use only the locker assigned to them. Students who share lockers are in violation of this policy and are subject to disciplinary action. 2. Locker damage will be assessed and appropriate fees will be assessed to students. 3. If a locker is not functioning properly, please notify the office. 4. Students are discouraged from bringing valuables (watches, necklaces, rings, etc.) and large amounts of money to school. The school does not assume responsibility for lost or stolen articles. 5. Students are held responsible for the contents of their assigned lockers. 6. It is the student’s responsibility to clean out his/her locker at the close of each school year. Lockers will be cleaned and inspected immediately. All items left in the lockers will be discarded and students will be as- sessed a fine for lockers that are in less than acceptable condition. HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION 1360 North Warren Road Huntington, IN 46750 260-356-7812 The following is the policy of the Board of School Trustees of the Huntington County Community School Corporation concerning search of student lockers and storage areas, students, and motor vehicles. It represents a sincere effort to bal- ance students’ right to privacy with our need to find and remove things which threaten their health, safety, or the learning atmosphere in our schools. Your com- ments and support would be appreciated. BOARD POLICY SEARCH AND SEIZURE ON SCHOOL PREMISES OR DURING A SCHOOL ACTIVITY Adopted September 8,1980 SEARCH AND SEIZURE—PROCEDURE—USE OF EVIDENCE A. As used in this section, ―reasonable cause for a search‖ means circum- stances which would cause a reasonable person to believe that the search of a particular person, place, or thing will probably lead to the discovery of: 1. Evidence of a violation of the student conduct standards and/or corporation policies and/or regulations as contained or referenced in the student handbook; 2. Anything which because of its presence presents an immediate danger of physical harm or illness to any person or damage to 12 property. B. All lockers and other storage areas provided for student use on school premises remain the property of the school corporation and are provided for the use of the students subject to inspection, access for mainte- nance, and search pursuant to this section. No students shall lock or otherwise impede access to any locker or storage area except with a lock provided by or approved by the principal of the school in which the locker or storage area is located or his designee. Unapproved locks shall be removed and destroyed. 1. The principal, or a member of the administrative staff designated in writing by the principal may search a locker and its contents at any time where the person conducting the search or the principal des- ignating the person to search has reasonable cause for a search of the locker searched. Other than a general search of lockers of all students, where the locker to be searched is assigned to a particular student, where possible the student shall be present at the search. 2. The principal, a member of the administrative staff, or a teacher may search a desk or any other storage area on school premises, other than a locker, when the person conducting the search has reasonable cause for a search. C. The principal, or another member of the administrative staff designated in writing by the principal and acting at the direction of the principal, may search the person of a student during a school activity if the principal has reasonable cause for a search of that student. Searches of the person of a student shall be limited to: 1. Searches of the pockets of the student; 2. Any object in the possession of the student such as a purse or briefcase; and/or 3. A ―pat down‖ of the exterior of the student’s clothing. Searches of the person of a student which require removal of clothing other than a coat or jacket shall be referred to a law enforcement officer in accordance with subsection G of this section. Searches of the person of a student shall be conducted in a private room by a person of the same sex as the stu- dent being searched. At least one, but not more than three additional persons of the same sex as the student being searched shall witness but not participate in the search. At the request of the student to be searched, an additional person of the same sex as the student desig- nated by the student, and then reasonably available on school premises, shall witness the search. The parent or guardian of any student searched shall be notified of the search as soon as reasonably possible. D. The principal or a member of the administrative staff designated in writ- ing by the principal may request a law enforcement officer to search a motor vehicle on school premises, subject to subsection G of this sec- tion. E. Anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with this section which is evidence of a violation of the student conduct stan- dards and/or this corporation’s policies and/or regulation as contained or referenced in the student handbook may be: 1. Seized and admitted as evidence in any suspension or expulsion proceeding if it is tagged for identification at the time it is seized and kept in a secure place by the principal or the principal’s desig- nee until it is presented at the hearing; 2. Returned to the parent, guardian, or the student from whom it was seized; and 3. Destroyed (if it has no significant value) or turned over to any law enforcement officer in accordance with subsection G. F. Anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with this section which, by its presence, presents an immediate danger of physical harm or illness to any person may be seized and: 1. Returned to the parent, guardian, or student from whom it was seized; 2. Destroyed; or 3. Turned over to any law enforcement officer in accordance with subsection G. G. The principal, or a member of the administrative staff designated in writing by the principal, may request the assistance of a law enforce- ment officer to: 1. Search any area of the school premises, any student, or any motor vehicle on school premises; 2. Identify or dispose of anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with this section. Where law enforcement officers respond to such a request, no school em- ployee shall assist or otherwise participate in any search conducted. HCCSC STUDENT ASSISTANCE POLICY The Board of School Trustees supports the concept that students will function at school with greater effectiveness if they are not under the influence or in illicit possession of alcohol, controlled substances, or involved in the abuse or inappro- priate use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs. The use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful. The Board believes that a penalty consisting of suspension or expulsion is appropriate and may act as a deterrent for those who choose to illicitly use, at school or school-related func- tions, alcohol or other substances in such manner that is likely to alter one’s mood or lead to intoxication or chemical dependency. The Board believes that substance abuse may lead to chemical dependency which is a disease of major proportions in our society. The Board recognizes that chemical dependency is chronic, progres- sive, but is also treatable. The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol on school premises or as a part of the school’s activities is strictly prohibited. Any student who knowingly possesses, uses, provides, or transmits to another person, or is under the influence of any substance which is, looks like, or which is or was represented to be a tobacco product, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, ampheta- mine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, substance containing alcohol, heavily-based caffeine product, substance containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), steroid, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind, (use of a drug authorized by a physician is not a violation of this subdivision) while on school premises or as a part of any of the school’s activities is subject to disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion from school and referral to local law enforcement authorities for prosecution. The Board believes that, in addition to a penalty or disposition, help should be offered to those students found to be under the influence or in illicit possession of alcohol/drugs, as described in the above paragraph. Therefore, the Board mandates that students under the influence or in illicit possession of alcohol, controlled substances, or involved in the abuse or inappro- priate use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs shall be brought to the attention of the core team leader. The core team leader will facilitate help in the form of an assessment of chemical use, education, and/or further recommendations to the family for professional counseling or treatment. The administration shall inform parents and students that compliance with this policy is mandatory and the disciplinary sanctions to be imposed for violation of this policy. Parents and students shall further be notified concerning available drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs. Legal Authority: Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989. (Public Law 101-226); 20 U.S.C. 1145; 34 CFR Part 86 Adopted by the School Board of Trustees - February 11, 1991 SMOKE FREE POLICY Property The School Board is committed to providing students, staff, and visitors with a tobacco-free environment. The negative health effects of tobacco use for both users and non-users, particularly in connection with second hand smoke, are well-established. Further, providing a tobacco-free environment is consistent with the role-modeling responsibilities of teachers and staff to our students. The Board also recognizes, however, the right of individuals under State law to use lawful products, including tobacco, during non-working hours off Corporation premises. Accordingly, the Board prohibits the use of tobacco including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, and chewing tobacco on Corporation premises, in Corporation vehicles, within any facility owned or leased or contracted for by the District, and used to provide education or library services to children and at all Corporation-sponsored events. SMOKE FREE POLICY Students The Huntington County Community School Corporation is committed to pro- viding a school environment free of health hazards. The School Board recognizes that the use of tobacco presents a health hazard which can have serious conse- quences both for the user and the nonuser and is, therefore, of concern to the Board. In accordance with United States Federal and Indiana State Law, the use of 13 tobacco products, including cigar, cigarette, pipe, snuff, or any other matter or substance that contains tobacco, is prohibited in any of the buildings, grounds, or vehicles belonging to the Huntington County Community School Corporation, ex- cept at designated times and places on school grounds. 1. Building administrators and directors are instructed to include informa- tion in building handbooks which reflects the Smoke Free Policy to students. 2. Huntington County Community School Corporation students will receive education on tobacco health hazards, beginning with the 1995-96 school year and coordinated by Huntington County Community School Corporation nurses, administrators, and health teachers. 3. Huntington North High School students shall not possess or use any tobacco products on school grounds, beginning with the 1996-97 school year. 4. Appropriate supervisory personnel will be provided to enforce the Stu- dent Smoke Free Policy at Huntington North High School. 5. Violations of the Smoke Free Policy subject students to disciplinary measures consistent with current due process policies. Pro-Children Act of 1994, I.C. 16-41-37. Adopted by the Board of School Trustees - June 26, 1995 Elementary School Note: Knowingly possess, use, provide, or transmit to another person or be under the influence of any substance which is, looks like, tastes like, smells like, or which is or was represented to be a tobacco p r o d uct, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alco- holic beverage, substance containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), steroid, stimu- lant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. Use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription from a physician is not a violation of this policy. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY Students: Drugs, Tobacco, Alcohol Drugs: Using, Possessing, Selling Substance abuse and addiction should be considered a medical/ psychological problem. The morality of substance use is not the issue in establish- ing policy. The primary concern is the use of substances and the resulting injury to everyone. The greatest need is for all to deal intelligently and knowledgeably with the very difficult problem of substance abuse. The school should work with stu- dents, parents, community agencies, and other community groups in helping to develop realistic attitudes and behavior patterns in combating substance abuse. It is expressly prohibited by the Board of School Trustees that any person or persons carry, be in possession of, use, purvey, or place anywhere on school cor- poration-owned premises (or within legal limits) and/or at and during school- sponsored activities any substances or paraphernalia associated with substance abuse. The Board of School Trustees empowers and instructs the Superintendent of Schools and his/her designee to establish administrative procedures for immedi- ately removing students found in violation of this board policy from the company of other students. The guidelines for the aforementioned actions shall include, but not be limited to: Any student who knowingly possesses, uses, provides, or transmits to another person, or be under the influence of: any substance which is, looks like, or which is or was represented to be a tobacco product, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, substance contain- ing alcohol, heavily-based caffeine product, substance containing phenylpropanola- mine (PPA), steroid, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. (Use of a drug authorized by a physician is not a violation of this subdivision.) Students - Controlled Substances, Tobacco, Alcohol, Etc. Guidelines for Handling Students Who Appear to be Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance Controlled substance effects can be manifested in a variety of ways depend- ing upon the substance taken and the individual who takes the substance. There are times when the individual’s behavior can be quite obvious, and thus, disturbing and detrimental to the student and to others. At other times, the appearance of the student can suggest that he/she is experiencing a substance effect, but the behav- ior will not cause him/her to draw undue attention. These guidelines are designed to give direction for handling cases where the most noticeable and disturbing be- havior is evident, and when the student is not capable of functioning properly in the classroom or in school. It should be kept in mind that there are causes other than the illegal use of substances and alcohol which may produce behavior of a similar nature: epilepsy, allergies, diabetes, hypertension, and other disorders are often medicated with substances which produce similar effects. These guidelines will serve to give direction to teachers, counselors, and administrators for assisting students who demonstrate behavior of a questionable nature. In all cases, since substance abuse is only suspected and not confirmed, discretion and ethical pro- fessional behavior must be exercised by all school personnel. A good rule to apply in these cases would be for each school person to ask, ―Who needs to be aware of this incident, who is responsible for making them aware, and what action on my part is necessary for the overall well-being of the individual student and the school?‖ This will eliminate the discussions that often occur in these cases. The guidelines presented herein apply to the general situation and again professional judgment and discretion must be exercised in situations which require that there be deviation from these guidelines: 1. Guidelines for Teachers: If a teacher observes a student on school property (or within legal limits) who appears to be in violation of the substance abuse policy, the teacher should: a. approach the student in a non-threatening, non-judgmental, sup- portive manner and ask the student if he/she is feeling well. b. encourage the student to accompany the staff member to the principal’s office. If the principal is not in the office, the teacher should call for a counselor. c. describe to the principal the behavior observed and then return to his/her assigned location. d. submit a written statement of the incident to the principal. In cases where the student will not willingly accompany the teacher to the office, the teacher should: e. send another teacher or a reliable student to get the assistance of the principal. f. encourage the student to remain in the class-room or in the build- ing – exercise good judgment and reasonable restraint to see that the student complies with this request. g. keep the student under observation until assistance arrives. Teachers who do not feel it advisable to leave their classrooms under such conditions should: h. send a reliable student to the principal or ask a colleague to either supervise the classroom or to accompany the student to the office. 2. Guidelines for Counselors: If a student who is suspected to be under the influence of a substance is observed by a school counselor while in the guidance office area or on school property, the counselor should: a. inform the student that his/her condition is such that he/she cannot participate in school and that he/she must go to the principal’s office. b. accompany the student to the principal’s office and follow the procedure as stated for the classroom teacher. If the student will not go willingly to the principal’s office, the counselor should follow the guidelines established for teachers under e, f, and g. Counselors can be of great assistance in helping work with other students who are not directly involved but who become emotionally upset when a friend has a substance abuse problem. Teachers or administrators should send such stu- dents to see their counselors if they notice that a student is extremely emotionally upset because of a friend’s involvement with substance abuse. 3. Guidelines for Building Principal: The principal of the school is di- rectly responsible for the health and safety of the faculty and students; therefore, he/she should be kept totally informed of suspected substance and/or alcohol abuse situations in the building. The building principal should: a. use his/her own prerogative in dealing with each individual case. b. notify Huntington County security officers when indicated. c. have turned over to him/her any substance or suspected substance confiscated in the investigation of a particular incident. This is then turned over to the Huntington County security officers. d. brief Huntington County security officers on all matters pertinent to the individual case. e. keep the parent/guardian informed of any matters related to t h e situation. Disciplinary Action The need for any disciplinary action and the nature of that action should be guided by two (2) controlling principles: (1) a desire to help the individual and his/ her parents to recognize and deal with a potentially serious problem, and (2) the need to prevent the actions of the individual from disturbing the order and effective functioning of the school or from jeopardizing the welfare of other students. The first of these principles is paramount, but in some situations it must give way to the second principle. Distinction should be made between the first-time offender and one who has been involved in one (1) or more previous incidents of suspected or proven sub- 14