Girard High School Student / Parent Handbook Mission Statement: We will develop responsible, critical thinkers who will make productive contributions to their community as lifelong learners. We will accomplish this through rigorous and relevant academics integrated with real-life discovery, awareness, and application. We will strive for increased achievement in all academic areas regardless of disability in a safe learning environment. Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year at Girard High School. As a community member, it is critical that you respect yourself, your peers, and the adults who work here every day. It is important that you always strive to do what is right. William Ryser , Principal William Christofil, Assistant Principal Please sign in both areas below. The bottom portions will be detached and kept on file at Girard High School. Student Name/Signature: ______________________________I have received and am responsible for complying with the expectations set forth in this 2017-2018 handbook. Parent Name/Signature: _______________________________I am aware that my child has received and is responsible for complying with the expectations set forth in this 20172018 handbook. Further, I do___ / do not___ give permission for Girard High School to publish my student’s name and photo in school publications, the school website, and in press releases. Issuing Teacher Name/Signature: ________________________ -----------------------------------------------------------Student Name/Signature: ______________________________I have received and am responsible for complying with the expectations set forth in this 2017-2018 handbook. Parent Name/Signature: _______________________________I am aware that my child has received and is responsible for complying with the expectations set forth in this 20172018 handbook. Further, I do___ / do not___ give permission for Girard High School to publish my student’s name and photo in school publications, the school website, and in press releases. Issuing Teacher Name/Signature: _________________________
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Number Phone Extensions/Room Numbers School Calendar Forward, Mission, Equal Education Opportunity Bell Schedules Student Responsibilities & Well Being Injury & Illness, Early Dismissal, Withdrawal & Transfer, Immunizations Emergency Medical, Individuals with Disabilities, Meal Service Safety Drills, Emergency Closing & Delays, Visitors Grading Class Rank Graduation Requirements Early High School Graduation Diploma Deferral Credit Flexibility Anti – Harassment Bullying and other forms of Aggressive Behavior Student Discipline District Drug Policy Drug Testing of Students in Non Academic Activities Detention, ISS, Prohibition of extra-curricular activities Personal Communication Devices Dress & Grooming Student Dress Code Behavior Infractions Student Network and Internet, Acceptable Use Use of the Library, Student Fees, Fines, & Charges National Honor Society Work Permits Students Driving to School Bus Privileges, Student Attendance Title 9, TCTC & Alma Mater
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4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 12 15 16 18 20 21 22 29 34 39 42 44 45 47 48 49 53 56 58 60 60 61 64
Girard Junior / Senior High School 1244 Shannon Road Girard, OH 44420 Phone Extensions/ Room Numbers 101 – Math Classroom (7th) 102 –Cindy Schnellbach 103 – Jennifer Conway 104 – Ashley Teagarden 105 – Andrew Saxon 106 – Math Classroom (8th) 107 – Shelly Powell 108 – Jenna Martin 109 – Nolan Cubellis 110 – Ashley Gabriel 111 – Ernie Szabo 112 – Michael Williams 113 – Jennifer Nicholas 114 – Madeline Anarella / Beth Kennedy 115 – John Latell 116 – Stacy Semer 117 – Jennifer Best 118 – High School Science Teacher Prep Room 119 – Edward Miner 120 – Stacy Aducci 121 – Christine Lucarielli 122 – Science Lab 123 – James Tedesco 124 – Wellness Room 125 – Jamie Williams 126 – John Foster - Blended Learning Academy 130 – Ashraf Hadi 131 – Broadcasting Lab 140 – Music Room – Marissa Benson & DJ Collella 142 – Kara Burnett 143 – Nurse Station - Lynn Rhodes & Lia Byrne 149 – Jennifer Santangelo 150 – Angela Cole 152 – William Ryser 153 – Jerilyn Snyder 154 – William Christofil 159 – Nick Cochran 161 – Trish Wilson - Cafeteria
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201 – Judy Barber 202 – Denise Kasula 203 – Erica Marsh 204 – Marty O’Leary 205 – Math Classroom 206 – John DeMas 207 – Eric Pellegrini, Lorrain DeChellis 208 – Sue Rich 209 – Kelly Sandy 210 – Maria Perez 211 – Bud McSuley 212 – Paula Ray 213 – Computer Lab 214 – Rae Marie Bonamase & Craig Hannon 215 – Lauren Albaugh 216 – Anna Scirocco 217 – Leslie Limbian 218 – Jason Johnson 219 – Joe Naples 220 – Eddie Mackiewicz 221 – Renny Paolone 222 - Computer Lab 240 – Tony Simeone 241 – Marla Maderitz 156 – Carol Sharples 157 – Angela Cochran 158 – Pete Simpson
GIRARD CITY SCHOOLS SCHOOL CALENDAR 2017-2018
August 21 August 22 August 25 September 4 October 12 October 13 October 27 November 22-24 November 28 December 21–Jan 2 January 2 January 3 January 12 January 15 January 16 February 15 February 16 February 19 March 16 March 29-Apr 3 April 4 May 25 Weeks May 26 May 28
Teacher In-service First Day of School for Students No School Labor Day - (No School) Parent/Teacher Conf – Early Release NEOEA Day - (No School) End of 1st - Nine Week Grading Period Thanksgiving Break (No School) Early Release Winter Break (No School) Waiver Day – (No School) Return To School End of 1st Semester Martin Luther King Day (No School) Two Hour Delay Parent/Teacher Conf – Early Release No School President’s Day (No School) End of 3rd - Nine Week Grading Period Spring Break (No School) Return to School Last Day of School – End of 4th-Nine Teacher’s Last Day Commencement
Contingency plan for excess of five (5) calamity days shall be scheduled for the end of the year.
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FOREWORD This student handbook was developed to answer many of the commonly asked questions that you and your parents may have during the school year. This handbook contains important information that you are responsible for knowing. Become familiar with the following information and keep the handbook available for frequent reference by you and your parents. If you have any questions that are not addressed in this handbook, you are encouraged to talk to your teachers or the building principal. This handbook replaces all prior handbooks and other written material on the same subjects.
MISSION OF THE SCHOOL We will develop responsible, critical thinkers who will make a productive contribution to their community as lifelong learners. We will accomplish this through rigorous and relevant academics integrated with real life discovery, awareness, and application.
EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY This District provides an equal educational opportunity for all students. Any person, who believes that the school or any staff person has discriminated against a student on the basis of race, color, creed, disability, religion, gender, ancestry, or national origin, has the right to file a complaint. Complaints and/or questions should be directed to the School District’s Compliance Officer. Superintendent David Cappuzzello 100 Main Street, Girard 44420 545-2596 Ext. 1 Complaints will be investigated and a response provided to the person filing the complaint in a timely manner. The Compliance Officer can provide additional information concerning equal access to educational opportunity. Under no circumstances will the district threaten or retaliate against anyone who raises a complaint.
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Girard High School 1244 Shannon Road Girard, Ohio 44420
Bell Schedules 2017 – 2018 Regular Schedule Staff Report 7:30 AM P/C Period 7:30-8:10 AM 1st Bell 8:05 AM Warning Bell 8:12 AM 1 8:15-8:57 2 9:00-9:40 3 9:43-10:23 4 10:26-11:06 5 11:09-11:49 6 11:54-1:07 a. 11:54-12:24 (tardy bell 12:27) b. 12:37-1:07 (release to lunch bell 12:34) 7 1:12-1:52 8 1:55-2:35
AM Assembly Bell Schedule Staff Report 7:30 AM P/C Period 7:30-8:10 AM 1st Bell 8:10 AM Warning Bell 8:12 AM BUG 8:15-8:45 (AM BUG / Advisory / Academic Assembly) 1 8:48-9:24 2 9:27-10:03 3 10:06-10:42 4 10:45-11:21 5 11:24-12:00 6 12:05-1:15 a. 12:05-12:35 (tardy bell 12:38) b. 12:45-1:15 (release to lunch bell 12:42) 7 1:20-1:56 8 1:59-2:35
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Girard High School 1244 Shannon Road Girard, Ohio 44420
Bell Schedules (continued) 2017 – 2018 PM Assembly Bell Schedule Staff Report 7:30 AM P/C Period 7:30-8:10 AM 1st Bell 8:05 AM Warning Bell 8:12 AM 1 8:15-8:53 2 8:56-9:30 3 9:33-10:07 4 10:10-10:44 5 10:47-11:21 7 11:24-11:58 6 12:03-1:11 a. 12:03-12:33 (tardy bell 12:36) b. 12:41-1:11 8 1:16-1:50 HR 1:53-2:35 (ASSEMBLY Period {Pep Rally})
Late Arrival Bell Schedule (2 hour delay snow days, 10:15 start time) 1 2 3 4 6
5 7 8
10:15 - 10:41 26 minutes 10:44 - 11:08 24 minutes 11:11 - 11:35 24 minutes 11:38 - 12:02 24 minutes 12:05 - 1:08 a. 12:02 - 12:32 classes are 33 minutes each b. 12:38 - 1:08 1:13 - 1:38 25 minutes 1:41 - 2:06 25 minutes 2:09 - 2:35 26 minutes
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STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES The school’s rules and procedures are designed to allow students to be educated in a safe and orderly environment. All students are expected to follow staff members’ directions and obey all school rules. The staff expects students to arrive at school prepared to learn. It is the student’s responsibility to arrive at school on time and be prepared to participate in the educational program. If for some reason, this is not possible, the student should seek the help from the guidance counselor.
Adult students (age18 or older) are expected to follow all school rules and regulations. If residing at home, adult students are encouraged to include their parents in their educational program.
In order to keep parents informed of their child’s progress in school, parents will be provided information on a regular basis and, whenever concerns arise. Many times it will be the responsibility of the student to deliver information. The school may however use the mail or hand deliver to ensure contact. Parents are encouraged to build a two-way link with their child’s teachers and support staff of suggestions or concerns that may help their child better accomplish his/her educational goals. To increase communication, we have the link below for you to visit the teachers’ grade books. PARENT ACCESS LINK www.girardcityschools.org
Respect for real and personal property; pride in one's work; achievement within the range of one's ability; and exemplary personal standards of courtesy, decency, and honesty shall be maintained in the schools of this District. It is the responsibility of students, teachers and administrators to maintain a classroom environment that: A.
allows teachers to communicate effectively with all students in the class;
B.
allows all students in the class the opportunity to learn;
C.
has consequences that are fair, and developmentally appropriate;
D.
considers the student and the circumstances of the situation; and
E.
enforces the student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code accordingly.
STUDENT WELL BEING Student safety is the responsibility of both students and staff. All staff members are familiar with emergency procedures such as fire and tornado drills and accident reporting procedures. If a student is aware of any dangerous situation or accident, he/she must notify a staff person immediately. State law requires that all students have an emergency medical authorization completed, signed by a parent or guardian, on file in the school office. 9
Students with specific health care needs should alert the school regarding those needs, in writing and with proper documentation by a physician, to the school office.
Children who meet the Federal definition of "homeless" will be provided a free appropriate public education in the same manner as all other students of the District. To that end, homeless students will not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their status as homeless and will be assigned to the school serving those non-homeless students residing in the area in which the homeless child is actually living. The District shall establish safeguards that protect homeless students from discrimination on the basis of their homelessness.
INJURY AND ILLNESS All injuries must be reported to a teacher or the office. If the injuries are minor, the student will be treated and may return to class. If medical attention is required, the office will follow the school’s emergency procedures. A student who becomes ill during the school day should request from the teacher to go to the nurse’s office. The nurse will determine whether or not the student should remain in school or go home. No student will be released from school without proper parental permission.
EARLY DISMISSAL No student will be allowed to leave school prior to dismissal time without either (a) a verifiable written request signed by a parent or guardian or (b) the parent or guardian coming to the school office to request the release. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent or guardian without a permission note signed by the custodial parent(s) or guardian.
WITHDRAWAL / TRANSFER FROM SCHOOL No student under the age of eighteen (18) will be allowed to withdraw from school without the written consent of his / her parents and in compliance with State law. A student who withdraws from school shall be reported to the juvenile judge of the county and to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for suspension of their driver’s license, if he / she is under the age of eighteen (18). If a student plans to transfer to another school, the parent must notify the principal. School records will be transferred within fourteen (14) days to the new school district.
IMMUNIZATIONS
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Each student should have the immunizations required by law or have an authorized waiver. If a student does not have the necessary shots or waivers, the principal may remove the student or require compliance with a set deadline. This is for the safety of all students and in accordance with State law. Any questions about immunizations or waivers be directed to the school nurse.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION The Board has established a policy that every student must have an Emergency Medical Authorization Form completed and signed by his / her parent in order to participate in any activity off school grounds. This includes field trips, spectator trips, athletic and other extracurricular activities, and co-curricular activities. The school has made the form available to every parent at the time of enrollment. Medication that is brought to the office will be properly secured by the school nurse. Medication MAY NOT be sent to school in a student’s lunch box, pocket, or other means on or about his / her person.
INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES The American’s with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provide that no individual will be discriminated against on the basis of disability. This protection applies not just to the student, but to all individuals who have access to the District’s programs and facilities. A student can access special education services through the proper evaluation and placement procedure. Parent involvement in this procedure is required. More importantly, the school wants the parent to be an active participant. To inquire about the procedure or programs, a parent should contact the Girard High School Administration.
MEAL SERVICE Girard High School participates in the National School Lunch Program and makes lunches available to students. Ala carte items are also available. Students may also bring their own lunch to school to be eaten in the school’s cafeteria. No student shall be allowed to leave school premises during the lunch period without specific written permission granted by the principal. The phone number for the food service manager is 330-545-5431 Ext. 161. Lunch Fee Schedule for 2017-2018:
Breakfast Lunch Milk
Regular Price $1.25 $2.75 .50
Reduced Price .30 .40
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Applications for the school’s Free and Reduced –Priced Meal program are distributed to all students. Please contact the main office if a student does not receive a free lunch application or household income changes during the course of the school-year.
SAFETY DRILLS The school complies with all safety laws and will conduct drills in accordance with State Law. Specific instructions on how to proceed will be provided to the students by their teachers who will oversee the safe, prompt, and orderly evacuation of the building.
EMERGENCY CLOSING AND DELAYS If the school must be closed or the opening delayed because of inclement weather or other conditions, the school will notify the radio and television stations. Information concerning school closings or delays can also be found on the school’s web page at www.girardcityschools.org.
VISITORS Visitors, particularly parents, are welcome at Girard High School. In order to properly monitor the safety of students and staff, each visitor must report to the main office upon entering the building to sign in and obtain a pass. Any visitor found in the building without a pass shall be reported to the principal and asked to leave. If a person wishes to confer with a member of the staff, he / she should call the main office for an appointment prior to coming to the school in order to prevent any inconvenience. Students may not bring visitors to school without first obtaining written permission from the principal.
GRADING The Board of Education recognizes its responsibility for providing a system of grading student achievement that can help the student, teachers, and parents judge properly how well the student is achieving the goals of the District's program. The Board believes that the District's grading system should be a reliable system and one that ensures each student's grades signify accurately his/her degree of accomplishment of those expected learning outcomes which are to be stated for each program at every grade level, kindergarten through twelve. The mandatory grade report date for all District staff shall be on the first calendar day following the last day of the preceding grading period; "report" means to input grades into the District's grading system so that the information can be accessed by the District's administrators as well as other persons having permitted access.
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The Board directs the Superintendent to develop procedures for grading whereby the professional staff: A.
develops clear, consistent criteria and standards particularly when grades are based on subjective assessment;
B.
helps each student understand in each course or program what behavior and/or achievement is needed to earn each grade as well as what will produce a failing grade;
C.
provides frequent opportunities for each student to obtain information as to his/her progress toward the learning goals of his/her courses or programs;
D.
provides for a pass/fail grade in programs for which it is appropriate;
E.
provides students the opportunity to assess both their own achievements and their areas of difficulty.
Since grades play such a significant role in the life of a student, it is imperative that the Board of Education's grading policy be implemented with as much professional expertise as can be applied. In determining grades at the various levels, staff should observe the following administrative guidelines.
Grade Reporting Date The mandatory grade report date for all District staff shall be on the first calendar day following the last day of the preceding grading period; "report" means to input grades into the District's grading system so that the information can be accessed by the District's administrators as well as other persons having permitted access.
The grading scales will be as follows: Reporting in grades 4-12 will be by report card using the following marking system: A
-
90
-
100
Excellent Achievement
B
-
80
-
89
Good Achievement
C
-
70
-
79
Satisfactory Achievement
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D
-
60
-
F
-
Below Passing
P
-
Passing
I
-
Incomplete
69
Minimum Acceptable Achievement
The principal in collaboration with all teachers at a particular grade or of a particular course, shall develop an explanation of the criteria and standards that will be used to qualify a student to be graded excellent, good, satisfactory, minimum, or failing. The explanation may not make use of normative (bell-curve) standards. The explanation shall include among others, three (3) types of criteria: A.
Current Accomplishment – what the student can consistently apply from what s/he has learned.
B.
Current Performances – what the student is learning as demonstrated by assignments and classroom activities
C.
Current Attitude – what behaviors the student demonstrates on a regular basis that reflect his/her willingness to learn and to function as a responsible student
In addition to a description of what each of the three (3) criteria (and any other the staff selects) consists of, the explanation should describe the quality (how well) of the accomplishment, performance, and attitude to differentiate outstanding from good, good from satisfactory, etc. The teachers should also weight these criteria in terms of relative importance in determining the grade. Staff members need to agree on such issues as, for example: A.
Should a student who does well in daily performance but has trouble making proper applications of the learning have his/her grade reduced? If so, by how much?
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B.
Should a student's grade be reduced if his/her application meets standards but daily performance doesn't? If so, by how much?
To ensure consistency, all teachers at the grade or course level shall use the same criteria/standards in grading their students. Each principal shall send a copy of these grading criteria/standards to all parents of children in these grades (or courses) prior to the first day of school and shall ensure that they are the basis for discussion and decision making at all parent conferences.
General Considerations Students will receive one grade per subject at the end of each grading cycle. No grade using + or – may be used on report cards in grades 4-12. In grades 9-12, a final grade will be determined utilizing the following procedure: First 9-week period: 40% Second 9-week period: 40% Final exam: 20%
CLASS RANK The Board of Education acknowledges the usefulness of a system of computing grade point averages and class ranking for high school students, both to inform students of their relative academic placement among their peers and to provide students, prospective employers, and institutions of higher learning with a predictive device so that each student is more likely to be placed in an environment conducive to success. The Board authorizes a system of class ranking, by grade point average, for students in grade(s) 9 – 12. The grades of students transferring to the high school from a chartered school will be recognized; however, such students shall have no established class rank for purposes of graduation honors, such as Valedictorian, etc. Students entering the high school from non-chartered or home-based schooling shall have no established grade point average (GPA) or class rank for purposes of graduation honors, such as Valedictorian, etc. 15
No student shall be eligible for graduation honors, such as Valedictorian, etc. unless they have been enrolled for two (2) consecutive full semesters prior to the final semester utilized for purposes of determining such honors. Students eligible for Valedictorian or Salutatorian status must have completed the following courses and the prerequisites for each course: - Honors English 9, Honors English 10, Honors English 11, AP English Literature and Composition or CCP Equivalents - CCP Calculus - Physics
The Superintendent shall develop procedures for the computation of grade point averages and the assignment of class rank to implement this policy.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS In order to acknowledge each student's successful completion of the instructional program, appropriate to the achievement of District goals and objectives as well as personal proficiency, the Board of Education awards a diploma to eligible students at a graduation ceremony. The Board shall award a regular high school diploma to every student enrolled in this District who meets the requirements of graduation established by this Board or who properly completes the goals and objectives specified in his/her individualized education program (IEP) including either the exemption from or the requirement to complete the tests required by the State Board of Education in order to graduate. Each student must demonstrate, unless exempted, at least a proficient level of skill on the tests required by the State Board of Education to graduate. The requirements for graduation from high school include earning twenty-six (26) units of credit in grades nine through twelve as follows:
Subject
Units Required
English Language Arts Health Physical Education Mathematics Science Social Studies Fine Arts, including music Electives (including at least 1 whole
4 .5 .5 * 4 3 3 1 8
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unit, or 2 half units, in business/technology, fine arts, and/or foreign language) Futures Prep
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* Physical Education Credit Waiver (Beginning with the class of 2018) Students who have participated in interscholastic athletics, marching band, or cheerleading for at least two (2) full seasons as defined in the student handbook, while enrolled in grades 9 through 12, and as documented by the high school principal, may be excused from the high school physical education requirement. Students electing such an excuse shall complete one-half (1/2) unit of at least sixty (60) hours of instruction in another course of study which is designated by the Board as meeting the high school curriculum requirements (NOTE: Credit requirements in State law must still be met) Credit may be earned by: A.
completing coursework;
B.
testing out of or demonstrating mastery of course content; or
C.
pursuing one or more educational options in accordance with the District's Credit Flexibility Program.
Credit may be earned at an accredited postsecondary institution. Every high school may permit students below the ninth grade to take advanced work for credit. This work shall count toward the graduation requirements if it was both: A.
taught by a person who possesses a license/certificate issued under State law that is valid for teaching high school;
B.
designated by the Board as meeting the high school curriculum requirements.
Ohio Core Opt-Out In accordance with the provisions of R.C. 3313.603, a student who enters ninth grade on or after July 1, 2010 and before July 1, 2014 may opt-out of the Ohio core curriculum requirements for graduation if all of the following conditions as specified in law and as detailed in AG 5460C are satisfied. 17
An honors diploma shall be awarded to any student who meets the established requirements for graduation or the requirements of his/her IEP; attains the applicable scores on the tests required by the State Board of Education to graduate; and meets any additional criteria the State Board may establish. Commencement exercises will include only those students who have successfully completed requirements for graduation as certified by the high school principal or those students who have been deemed eligible to participate in such exercises in accordance with the terms of their IEP. No student who has completed the requirements for graduation shall be denied a diploma as a disciplinary measure. A student may be denied participation in the ceremony of graduation when personal conduct so warrants. The Board also shall grant a diploma of adult education to all District residents over the age of twenty-one (21) who meet the requirements established by the State Board of Education. The Superintendent shall establish whatever administrative guidelines are necessary to comply with State rules and regulations. R.C. 3313.60, 3313.603, 3313.61, 3313.611, 3313.614, 3313.647, 3323.08 R.C. 3301.07, 0710, 0711 A.C. 3301-41-01, 3301-13-01 to 07 Revised 2/23/05 Revised 9/27/06 Revised 4/25/07 Revised 11/18/09 Revised 7/27/11 Revised 11/28/12 Revised 6/25/14
EARLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION The Board of Education acknowledges that some students seek to pursue educational goals that include graduation from high school at an earlier date than their designated class. A student who completes the requirements for early high school graduation may participate in the graduation ceremonies with his/her designated class or the class graduating in the year in which s/he completes the District's requirements for high school graduation. Early High School Graduation - General
Application for early high school graduation must be submitted to the high school principal.
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The principal may honor this request if all conditions for high school graduation are met and the student fulfills the high school graduation requirements. Early High School Graduation – Advanced Learners
Any student residing in the District may be referred for early high school graduation by a staff member or parent/guardian to the principal of his/her school. Students may refer themselves or a peer through a staff member who has knowledge of the referred child's abilities. Copies of referral forms will be available at each school building. Students referred for early high school graduation will be evaluated in a prompt manner. The building principal will schedule the evaluations. Normally, changes in a student's schedule will only occur at the start of a semester. Before a student is evaluated for early high school graduation, the principal (or his/her designee) must obtain written permission from the student's parent/guardian. Evaluations related to referrals that occur during the school year will ordinarily be completed and a written report issued within forty-five (45) calendar days. Evaluations related to referrals that occur at the end of a school year or during the summer will be completed and a written report issued either before the end of the school year, if possible, or within forty-five (45) calendar days of the start of the next school year. Upon referral, the student's principal (or his/her designee) shall convene an acceleration evaluation committee to determine the appropriateness of early high school graduation for the student. The committee shall include the following: A.
a parent/legal guardian of the referred student
B.
a gifted education coordinator or gifted intervention specialist, or, if neither is available, a school psychologist or guidance counselor with expertise in early high school graduation
C.
a principal or assistant principal from the student's current school
D.
a current teacher of the referred student
The acceleration evaluation committee shall be responsible for conducting a fair and thorough evaluation of the student. Students referred for early high school graduation shall be evaluated based on past academic performance, measures of achievement based on State academic content standards, and successful completion of State mandated graduation requirements. The acceleration evaluation committee will consider the student's own thoughts on possible accelerated placement in its deliberations.
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The acceleration evaluation committee shall issue a written decision on the outcome of the evaluation process to the principal and the student's parent/guardian. This notification shall include instructions for appealing the decision. Appeals must be made in writing to the Superintendent within thirty (30) calendar days of the parent/guardian receiving the committee's decision. The Superintendent or his/her designee shall review the appeal and notify the parent/guardian of his/her final decision within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving the appeal. The Superintendent or his/her designee's decision shall be final. If the student is recommended for early high school graduation, the acceleration evaluation committee will develop a written acceleration plan designed to allow the student to complete high school graduation requirements on an accelerated basis. The plan may include the provision of educational options in accordance with A.C. 3301-3506(G), waiving District graduation requirements that exceed those by the State, and early promotion to sophomore (or higher) status to allow the student to take the Ohio Graduation Test. A staff member will be assigned to oversee implementation of the written acceleration plan and to monitor the adjustment of the student to the accelerated setting. R.C. 3324.10 Adopted 5/16/07
DIPLOMA DEFERRAL Social graduation is an opportunity for students with individualized education programs ("IEPs") to participate in high school graduation ceremonies without obtaining an official diploma. Students with IEPs who have completed all academic requirements for high school graduation, but who have not yet completed their transition-related IEP goals may be eligible for social graduation. Students may participate in social graduation only upon the recommendation of their respective IEP teams. If social graduation is recommended, the student may engage in all aspects of the graduation celebration (e.g., wearing a cap and gown; sitting with the graduating class; having his/her name printed in the program and read aloud at the ceremony; walking across the stage to receive a faux diploma). The determination of whether social graduation is recommended for any particular student will be done on an individual basis during the first semester of any year in which the student’s chronological peer group is eligible to receive a high school diploma. The IEP team may raise the issue, or the student and/or his/her parent may raise the issue. The IEP team members should consider whether social graduation is appropriate to further the student’s progress with regard to IEP goals. The team may also consider any objectives the student will be required to accomplish before s/he is eligible to participate. Finally, the team should determine additional arrangements or preparations, if any, that will need to be made to enable the student to participate in the ceremony. If the team determines that social graduation is recommended, the Superintendent or designee shall be notified. The IEP team makes the final decision with regard to social graduation, in accordance with the student’s IEP goals and Federal and State laws and regulations and local Board 20
policies. Students for whom participation in graduation ceremonies is precluded for disciplinary issues (when the discipline was not a manifestation of the student’s disability) or nonpayment of school fines may not participate in social graduation. After participating in the ceremony, the student is expected to continue working on his/her IEP transition goals and objectives. The student will also continue to receive services to address his/her transitional, vocational, and/or independent living skills as delineated in his/her IEP. An official high school diploma will be granted to the student when the IEP team determines that the transition goals have been met. When the student turns twenty-two (22) during the school year, s/he will be permitted to complete the current semester before services cease. Adopted 4/25/12
CREDIT FLEXIBILITY The Board of Education recognizes that an effective educational program is one that provides opportunities for students to customize aspects of their learning around their respective needs and interests. Credit flexibility is one method to motivate and increase student learning by allowing access to more resources, customization around individual student needs and the use of multiple measures of learning. Credit flexibility shifts the focus from "seat time" to performance. Students can earn units of high school credit based on an individually approved credit flexibility plan. The intent of credit flexibility is to meet increased expectations for high school graduation in response to globalization, technology and demographics, and to meet the demand for 21st century skills. In accordance with State law, the District must develop and implement a credit flexibility plan that enables students to earn high school credit by: A.
completing coursework;
B.
testing out or showing mastery of course content;
C.
pursuing an educational option and/or an individually approved option and/or;
D.
any combination of the above.
The Superintendent or his/her designee develops the District's credit flexibility plan consistent with the provisions of the following regulation . LEGAL REFS: Carnegie Design Team Report to the State Board of Education, New Emphasis on Learning: Ohio's plan for credit flexibility shifts the focus from "seat time" to performance (March 2009) Adopted 7/28/10
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ANTI - HARRASSMENT POLICY General Policy Statement It is the policy of the Board of Education to maintain an education and work environment which is free from all forms of unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment. This commitment applies to all School District operations, programs, and activities. All students, administrators, teachers, staff, and all other school personnel share responsibility for avoiding, discouraging, and reporting any form of unlawful harassment. This policy applies to unlawful conduct occurring on school property, or at another location if such conduct occurs during an activity sponsored by the Board. The Board will vigorously enforce its prohibition against harassment based on sex, race, color, national origin, religion, disability, or any other unlawful basis, and encourages those within the School District community as well as third parties, who feel aggrieved to seek assistance to rectify the problems. The Board will investigate all allegations of harassment and in those cases where unlawful harassment is substantiated, the Board will take immediate steps to end the harassment. Individuals who are found to have engaged in unlawful harassment will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. For purposes of this policy, "School District community" means students, administrators, teachers, staff, and all other school personnel, including Board members, agents, volunteers, contractors, or other persons subject to the control and supervision of the Board. For purposes of this policy, "third parties" include, but are not limited to, guests and/or visitors on School District property (e.g., visiting speakers, participants on opposing athletic teams, parents), vendors doing business with, or seeking to do business with, the Board, and other individuals who come in contact with members of the School District community at school-related events/activities (whether on or off School District property). Other Violations of the Anti-Harassment Policy The Board will also take immediate steps to impose disciplinary action on individuals engaging in any of the following prohibited acts: A. Retaliating against a person who has made a report or filed a complaint alleging harassment, or who has participated as a witness in a harassment investigation B. Filing a malicious or knowingly false report or complaint of harassment C. Disregarding, failing to investigate adequately, or delaying investigation of allegations of harassment, when responsibility for reporting and/or investigating 22
harassment charges comprises part of one's supervisory duties.
Definitions Sexual Harassment Pursuant to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, "sexual harassment" is defined as: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, when: A. Submission to such conduct is made either implicitly or explicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment, or status in a class, educational program, or activity B. Submission or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or educational decisions affecting such individuals C. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with the individual's work or educational performance; of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working, and/or learning environment; or of interfering with one's ability to participate in or benefit from a class or an educational program Sexual harassment may involve the behavior of a person of either gender against a person of the same or opposite gender. Prohibited acts that constitute sexual harassment may take a variety of forms. Examples of the kinds of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to: A. flirtations. B. C. academic
Unwelcome sexual propositions, invitations, solicitations, and
Physical assault. Threats or insinuations that a person's employment, wages,
grade, promotion, classroom work or assignments, academic status, participation in athletics or extra-curricular programs or events, or other conditions of employment or education may be adversely affected by not submitting to sexual advances. D. Unwelcome verbal expressions of a sexual nature, including graphic sexual commentaries about a person's body, dress, appearance, or sexual activities; the unwelcome use of sexually degrading language, jokes or innuendoes; 23
unwelcome suggestive or insulting sounds or whistles; obscene telephone calls. A. Sexually suggestive objects, pictures, videotapes, audio recordings or literature, placed in the work or educational environment, which may embarrass or offend individuals. B. Unwelcome and inappropriate touching, patting, or pinching; obscene gestures. C. A pattern of conduct, which can be subtle in nature, that has sexual overtones and is intended to create or has the effect of creating discomfort and/or humiliation to another. D. Remarks speculating about a person's sexual activities or sexual history, or remarks about one's own sexual activities or sexual history. E. Inappropriate boundary invasions by a District employee or other adult member of the School District community into a student's personal space and personal life. Not all behavior with sexual connotations constitutes unlawful sexual harassment. Conduct must be sufficiently severe, pervasive, and persistent such that it adversely affects an individual's employment or education, or such that it creates a hostile or abusive employment or educational environment. Race/Color Harassment Prohibited racial harassment occurs when unwelcome physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct is based upon an individual's race or color and when the conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with the individual's work or educational performance; of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working, and/or learning environment; or of interfering with one's ability to participate in or benefit from a class or an educational program or activity. Such harassment may occur where conduct is directed at the characteristics of a person's race or color, such as racial slurs, nicknames implying stereotypes, epitaphs, and/or negative references relative to racial customs. Religious (Creed) Harassment Prohibited religious harassment occurs when unwelcome physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct is based upon an individual's religion or creed and when the conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with the individual's work or educational performance; of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working and/or learning environment; or of interfering with one's ability to participate in or benefit from a class or an educational program or activity. Such harassment may occur where conduct is directed at the characteristics of a person's religious tradition,
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clothing, or surnames, and/or involves religious slurs. National Origin Harassment Prohibited national origin harassment occurs when unwelcome physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct is based upon an individual's national origin and when the conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with the individual's work or educational performance; of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working and/or learning environment; or interfering with one's ability to participate in or benefit from a class or an educational program or activity. Such harassment may occur where conduct is directed at the characteristics of a person's national origin, such as negative comments regarding customs, manner of speaking, language, surnames, or ethnic slurs. Disability Harassment Prohibited disability harassment occurs when unwelcome physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct is based upon an individual's disability and when the conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with the individual's work or educational performance of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working and/or learning environment; or with one's ability to participate in or benefit from a class or an educational program or activity. Such harassment may occur where conduct is directed at the characteristics of a person's disabling condition, such as negative comments about speech patterns, movement, physical impairments or defects/appearances, or the like. Reports and Complaints of Harassing Conduct Members of the School District community and third parties are encouraged to promptly report incidents of harassing conduct to an administrator, supervisor or other School District official so that the Board may address the conduct before it becomes severe, pervasive, or persistent. Members of the School District community or third parties who believe they have been unlawfully harassed by another member of the School District community or a third party are entitled to utilize the Board's complaint process. Initiating a complaint, whether formally or informally, will not adversely affect the complaining individual's employment or participation in educational or extra-curricular programs. While there are no time limits for initiating complaints of harassment under this policy, individuals should make every effort to file a complaint as soon as possible after the conduct occurs while the facts are known and potential witnesses are available. The names and titles of the Anti-Harassment Complaint Coordinators with whom complaints of sexual and other forms of unlawful harassment should be filed are set forth in the administrative guidelines that supplement this policy. The names and titles of these individuals will be published annually on the School District's web 25
site, in the School District's calendar, and/or in District Newsletter. The Superintendent shall establish Administrative Guidelines describing both a formal and an informal process for making a charge of harassment, a process for investigating claims of harassment, and a process for rendering a decision regarding whether the claim of harassment was substantiated. This Policy and the Administrative Guidelines will be readily available to all members of the School District community and posted in appropriate places throughout the School District. Any Board employee who directly observes unlawful harassment of a student is obligated, in accordance with this policy, to report such observations to one of the Complaint Coordinators. Thereafter, the Complaint Coordinator must contact the student, if age eighteen (18) or older, or the student's parents if under the age eighteen (18), to advise s/he/them of the Board's intent to investigate the alleged misconduct, including the obligation of the Complaint Coordinator or designee to conduct an investigation following all the procedures outlined for a formal complaint. Privacy/Confidentiality The School District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board’s legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any discovery or disclosure obligations. All records generated under the terms of this policy and its related administrative guidelines shall be maintained as confidential to the extent permitted by law. Informal Process for Addressing Complaints of Harassment The administrative guidelines will include an informal complaint process to provide members of the School District community or third parties who believe they are being unlawfully harassed with a range of options designed to bring about a resolution of their concerns. Members of the School District community or third parties who believe that they have been unlawfully harassed may initiate their complaint through this informal complaint process, but are not required to do so. The administrative guidelines will include as a requirement the prerequisite that the informal process is only available in those circumstances where the parties (alleged target of harassment and alleged harasser(s)) agree to participate in the informal process. Those members of the School District community or third parties who believe that they have been unlawfully harassed may proceed immediately to the formal complaint process and individuals who seek resolution through the informal procedure may request that the informal process be terminated at any time to move to the formal complaint process. However, all complaints of harassment involving a District employee or any other adult member of the School District community against a student will be formally investigated.
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Formal Process for Addressing Complaints of Harassment The administrative guidelines will also include a formal complaint process. While the formal complaint process may serve as the first step to resolution of a charge of unlawful harassment, it is also available in those circumstances when the informal complaint process fails to satisfactorily resolve a concern. Because of the need for flexibility, no specific time lines are established for initiating the formal complaint process; however, once the formal complaint process is begun, the investigation will be completed in a timely manner (ordinarily, within thirty-one (31) calendar days of the complaint being received). Members of the School District community or third parties who feel they have been unlawfully harassed should file a formal written complaint with the principal of their school building or with one of the Complaint Coordinators identified in the Administrative Guidelines. Oral complaints of harassment will be reduced to writing by the individual receiving the complaint and the Complainant will be asked to verify the accuracy of the reported charge by signing the document. Complaints received by a school building principal will be immediately reported to the appropriate Complaint Coordinator identified in the Administrative Guidelines. After a complaint is filed, the Complaint Coordinator or designee shall conduct a prompt and timely investigation. The investigation may include interviews of the complainant, the individual accused of engaging in harassing behavior, and any other witness who may reasonably be expected to have information relevant to the situation. All interviewed parties and witnesses will be provided an opportunity to present any evidence that they reasonably believe to be relevant to the situation. At the conclusion of the investigation the Complaint Coordinator or designee will prepare and deliver to the Superintendent a written report summarizing the evidence gathered during the investigation and providing his/her recommendations regarding whether or not the complaint of unlawful harassment has been substantiated. The written report must be based on the totality of the circumstances involved in the complaint, the nature of the alleged conduct, the context in which the alleged conduct occurred, and the ages and maturity of the individuals involved. Upon review of the written report the Superintendent will either issue a final decision regarding whether or not the complaint of unlawful harassment was substantiated, or request that further investigation be conducted. A copy of Superintendent's action will be delivered to both the Complainant and the individual accused of the harassing conduct. A Complainant who is dissatisfied with the Superintendent's decision may appeal it to the Board of Education by submitting written notice to the Superintendent within ten (10) days of the date of the Superintendent's decision. Upon receipt of a notice of appeal, the Board shall meet in executive session at its next regularly scheduled meeting, which is scheduled to occur at least ten (10) days after the Superintendent's receipt of the appeal notice, to review the complaint and the summary of the investigation. Following the meeting, the Board will issue a decision either 27
affirming, modifying, or rejecting the Superintendent's decision. The decision of the Board shall be final. The Complaint process set forth in the policy and in the administrative guidelines is not intended to interfere with the rights of a member of the School District community or a third party to pursue a complaint of unlawful harassment with the United States Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The Board reserves the right to investigate and resolve a complaint or report of unlawful harassment regardless of whether the member of the School District community or third party alleging the harassment pursues the complaint. The Board also reserves the right to have the formal complaint investigation conducted by an external person in accordance with this policy and administrative guidelines or in such other manner as deemed appropriate by the Board or its designee. Sanctions and Monitoring The Board shall vigorously enforce its prohibitions against unlawful harassment. While observing the principles of due process, a violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including the discharge of an employee or the suspension/expulsion of a student. All disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with applicable State law and the terms of the relevant collective bargaining agreement(s). When imposing discipline, the Superintendent shall consider the totality of the circumstances involved in the matter, including the ages and maturity levels of those involved. In those cases where unlawful harassment is not substantiated, the Board may consider whether the alleged conduct nevertheless warrants discipline in accordance with other Board policies, consistent with the terms of the relevant collective bargaining agreement(s). Where the Board becomes aware that a prior remedial action has been taken against a member of the School District community, all subsequent sanctions imposed by the Board and/or Superintendent shall be reasonably calculated to eliminate such conduct in the future. Education and Training In support of this Anti-Harassment Policy, the Board promotes preventative educational measures to create greater awareness of unlawful discriminatory practices. The Superintendent or designee shall provide appropriate training to all members of the School District community related to the implementation of this policy and its accompanying administrative guidelines. All training regarding the Board's policy and administrative guidelines and harassment in general, will be age and content appropriate. Revised 11/18/09
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BULLYING AND OTHER FORMS OF AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR The Board of Education is committed to providing a safe, positive, productive, and nurturing educational environment for all of its students. The Board encourages the promotion of positive interpersonal relations between members of the school community. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying toward a student, whether by other students, staff, or third parties is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This prohibition includes aggressive behavior, physical, verbal, and psychological abuse, and violence within a dating relationship. The Board of Education will not tolerate any gestures, comments, threats, or actions which cause or threaten to cause bodily harm or personal degradation. This policy applies to all activities in the District, including activities on school property, on a school bus, or while en-route to or from school, and those occurring off school property if the student or employee is at any schoolsponsored, school-approved or school-related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events where students are under the school's control, in a school vehicle, or where an employee is engaged in school business. In addition, this policy prohibits cyber-bullying, the harassment, intimidation, or bullying of another perpetrated with computers, cellular phones, internet websites, and/or any other electronic devices. This behavior is not limited to where the bullying originates, but also includes where it is communicated regardless of whether it is on or off school property as long as such behavior impacts or disrupts the educational process. This policy has been developed in consultation with parents, District employees, volunteers, students, and community members as prescribed in R.C. 3313.666 and the State Board of Education's Model Policy. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying means: A. any intentional written, verbal, electronic, or physical act that a student or group of students exhibits toward another particular student(s) more than once and the behavior both causes mental or physical harm to the other student(s) and is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student(s); or B.
violence within a dating relationship.
"Electronic act" means an act committed through the use of a cellular telephone, computer, pager, personal communication device, or other electronic communication
29
device. Aggressive behavior is defined as inappropriate conduct that is repeated enough, or serious enough, to negatively impact a student's educational, physical, or emotional well-being. This type of behavior is a form of intimidation and harassment, although it need not be based on any of the legally protected characteristics, such as sex, race, color, national origin, marital status, or disability. It would include, but not be limited to, such behaviors as stalking, bullying/cyber-bullying, intimidating, menacing, coercion, name-calling, taunting, making threats, and hazing. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying also means cyber-bullying through electronically transmitted acts (i.e., internet, e-mail, cellular telephone, personal digital assistance (PDA), or wireless hand-held device) that a student(s) or a group of students exhibits toward another particular student(s) more than once and the behavior both causes mental and physical harm to the other student and is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student(s). Any student or student's parent/guardian who believes s/he has been or is the victim of aggressive behavior should immediately report the situation to the building principal or assistant principal, or the Superintendent. The student may also report concerns to teachers and other school staff who will be responsible for notifying the appropriate administrator or Board official. Complaints against the building principal should be filed with the Superintendent. Complaints against the Superintendent should be filed with the Board President. Every student is encouraged, and every staff member is required, to report any situation that they believe to be aggressive behavior directed toward a student. Reports may be made to those identified above. All complaints about aggressive behavior that may violate this policy shall be promptly investigated. The building principal or appropriate administrator shall prepare a written report of the investigation upon completion. Such report shall include findings of fact, a determination of whether acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying were verified, and, when prohibited acts are verified, a recommendation for intervention, including disciplinary action shall be included in the report. Where appropriate, written witness statements shall be attached to the report. If the investigation finds an instance of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying/cyber-bullying by an electronic act or otherwise, has occurred, it will result in prompt and appropriate remedial and/or disciplinary action. This may include suspension or up to expulsion for students, up to discharge for employees, exclusion for parents, guests, volunteers, and contractors, and removal from any official position and/or a request to resign for Board members. Individuals may also be referred to law enforcement officials.
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Retaliation against any person who reports, is thought to have reported, files a complaint, or otherwise participates in an investigation or inquiry concerning allegations of aggressive behavior is prohibited and will not be tolerated. Such retaliation shall be considered a serious violation of Board policy and independent of whether a complaint is substantiated. Suspected retaliation should be reported in the same manner as aggressive behavior. Retaliation may result in disciplinary action as indicated above. Deliberately making false reports about harassment, intimidation, bullying and/or other aggressive behavior for the purpose of getting someone in trouble is similarly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Deliberately making false reports may result in disciplinary action as indicated above. If a student or other individual believes there has been aggressive behavior, regardless of whether it fits a particular definition, s/he should report it and allow the administration to determine the appropriate course of action. The District shall implement intervention strategies (AG 5517.01) to protect a victim or other person from new or additional harassment, intimidation, or bullying and from retaliation following such a report. This policy shall not be interpreted to infringe upon the First Amendment rights of students (i.e., to prohibit a reasoned and civil exchange of opinions, or debate, that is conducted at appropriate times and places during the school day and is protected by State or Federal law). The complainant shall be notified of the findings of the investigation, and as appropriate, that remedial action has been taken. If after investigation, acts of bullying against a specific student are verified, the building principal or appropriate administrator shall notify the custodial parent/guardian of the victim of such finding. In providing such notification care shall be taken to respect the statutory privacy rights of the perpetrator of such harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying. If after investigation, act of harassment, intimidate, and/or bullying by a specific student are verified, the building principal or appropriate administrator shall notify in writing the custodial parent/guardian of the perpetrator of that finding. If disciplinary consequences are imposed against such student, a description of such discipline shall be included in the notification. Complaints Students and/or their parents/guardians may file reports regarding suspected harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Such reports shall be reasonably specific including person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of suspected harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. Such reports may be filed with any school staff member or administrator, and they shall be promptly forwarded to the building 31
principal for review, investigation, and action. Students, parents/guardians, and school personnel may make informal or anonymous complaints of conduct that they consider to be harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying by verbal report to a teacher, school administrator, or other school personnel. Such complaints shall be reasonably specific including person(s) involved, number of times and places of the alleged conduct, the target of suspected harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying, and the names of any potential student or staff witnesses. A school staff member or administrator who receives an informal or anonymous complaint shall promptly document the complaint in writing, including the information provided. This written report shall be promptly forwarded by the school staff member and/or administrator to the building principal for review, investigation, and appropriate action. Individuals who make informal complaints as provided above may request that their name be maintained in confidence by the school staff member(s) and administrator(s) who receive the complaint. Anonymous complaints shall be reviewed and reasonable action shall be taken to address the situation, to the extent such action may be taken that (1) does not disclose the source of the complaint, and (2) is consistent with the due process rights of the student(s) alleged to have committed acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying. When an individual making an informal complaint has requested anonymity, the investigation of such complaint shall be limited as is appropriate in view of the anonymity of the complaint. Such limitation of investigation may include restricting action to a simple review of the complaint subject to receipt of further information and/or the withdrawal by the complaining student of the condition that his/her report be anonymous. Privacy/Confidentiality The School District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against who the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board’s legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any discovery or disclosure obligations. All records generated under this policy and its related administrative guidelines shall be maintained as confidential to the extent permitted by law. Reporting Requirement At least semi-annually, the Superintendent shall provide to the President of the Board a written summary of all reported incidents and post the summary on the District web site (if one exists). The list shall be limited to the number of verified acts of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying, whether in the classroom, on school property, to and from school, or at school-sponsored events. Allegations of criminal misconduct and suspected child abuse will be reported to the 32
appropriate law enforcement agency and/or to Child Protective Services in accordance with statute. District personnel shall cooperate with investigations by such agencies. Immunity A School District employee, student, or volunteer shall be individually immune from liability in a civil action for damages arising from reporting an incident in accordance with this policy and R.C. 3313.666 if that person reports an incident of harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying promptly, in good faith, and in compliance with the procedures specified in this policy. Such immunity from liability shall not apply to an employee, student, or volunteer determined to have made an intentionally false report about harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying. Notification Notice of this policy will be annually circulated to and posted in conspicuous locations in all school buildings and departments within the District and discussed with students, as well as incorporated into the teacher, student, and parent/guardian handbooks. At least once each school year a written statement describing the policy and consequences for violations of the policy shall be sent to each student's custodial parent or guardian. The statement may be sent with regular student report cards or may be delivered electronically. The policy and an explanation of the seriousness of bullying by electronic means shall be made available to students in the District and to their custodial parents or guardians. State and Federal rights posters on discrimination and harassment shall also be posted at each building. All new hires will be required to review and sign off on this policy and the related complaint procedures. Education and Training In support of this policy, the Board promotes preventative educational measures to create greater awareness of aggressive behavior, including bullying and violence within a dating relationship. The Superintendent or designee shall provide appropriate training to all members of the School District community related to the implementation of this policy and its accompanying administrative guidelines. All training regarding the Board’s policy and administrative guidelines and aggressive behavior and bullying in general, will be age and content appropriate. Annually, the District shall provide all students enrolled in the District with ageappropriate instruction regarding the Board's policy, including a written or verbal discussion of the consequences for violations of the policy to the extent that State or 33
Federal funds are appropriated for this purpose. Students in grades seven (7) through twelve (12) shall receive age-appropriate instruction in dating violence prevention education, including instruction in recognizing dating violence warning signs and characteristics of healthy relationships. Parents, who submit a written request to the building principal to examine the dating violence prevention instruction materials used in the school, will be afforded an opportunity to review the materials within a reasonable period of time. The District shall provide training, workshops, and/or courses on this policy for school employees and volunteers who have direct contact with students, to the extent that State or Federal funds are appropriated for these purposes. Time spent by school staff in these training programs shall apply toward mandated continuing education requirements. In accordance with Board Policy 8462, the Superintendent shall include a review of this policy on bullying and other forms of harassment in the required training in the prevention of child abuse, violence, and substance abuse and the promotion of positive youth development. The Superintendent shall develop administrative guidelines to implement this policy. Guidelines shall include reporting and investigative procedures, as needed. The complaint procedure established by the Superintendent shall be followed. R.C. 3313.666, 3313.667 State Board of Education Model Policy (2007) Adopted 7/28/04 Revised 11/16/05 Revised 11/28/07 Revised 12/20/10 Revised 4/25/12 Revised 11/28/12
STUDENT DISCIPLINE Detentions, Suspensions, and Expulsions Suspension and/or expulsion from school may be used at the discretion of the principal, assistant principal or the superintendent for a violation of any rules or regulations relative to student conduct, attendance, or any other violation stated in this document. While it is legally possible for the school administration in Ohio to suspend a student up to a total of ten (10) school days; only the Superintendent has the authority to expel a
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student for a period of up to ninety (80) days, the remainder of the school year, into the next school year, or a full year for possession of weapons or drugs. Rules and standards set forth apply to student conduct on school premises, at school functions off premises and on buses as well as conduct off school premises which directly affects other students, the school, and its staff. Discipline problems can be either minor or major depending upon the severity and/or repetitiveness. They are cumulative in nature and will be dealt with accordingly. Constant violations will result in more severe disciplinary action to be taken by the administration. A.
Level One Violations *Not all acts of misconduct can be listed individually. The following is a guide of some minor violations: *Students are permitted to bring book bags to school, but must leave the book bags in their lockers. Students are not permitted to bring book bags (backpacks, etc.) into the classroom, cafeteria, auditorium, gym, or elsewhere in the building. Level 1 Violations (Unless otherwise indicated.) 1st Offense – One-hour detention 2nd Offense – Two-hour detention 3rd Offense – Three-hour detention 4th Offense - The student will receive one (1) to three (3) days out-ofschool suspension. 5th Offense - Five (5) days out-of-school suspension with a recommendation for expulsion and possible placement in the alternative school. 1.
Profanity
2.
Dress Code
3.
Violation of classroom rules
4.
Misbehavior in assembly, halls, cafeteria
5.
Unauthorized eating or drinking outside of cafeteria
6.
Being in an unauthorized area
7.
Late to class
8.
In halls without a pass
9.
Disrespect (depending on severity)
10. Bringing back packs / gym bags into classroom 11. Unauthorized parking 12. Public display of affection 35
13. Truant to detention (1st offense = double detention, 2nd offense = suspension) 14. Failure to sign-in or sign-out 15. Failure to follow locker procedures 16. Leave cafeteria during lunch without permission 17. Tardy to school (beginning with 4th offense) 18. Complicity for Level 1 Offenses 19. Unauthorized use of Personal Communication Device B.
Level Two Violations *Not all acts of misconduct can be listed individually. The following is a guide of some violations, unless otherwise indicated. 1st Offense – Three –hour detention / Suspension 2nd Offense – Suspension (3 days) 3rd Offense – Recommendation for Expulsion
C.
1.
Truancy from school grounds
2.
Truancy from class
3.
Defiant / belligerent behavior
4.
Dismissal from class.
5.
Abuse of school property
6.
Forgery of a hall pass
7.
Gambling
8.
Use of profanity with “F” word (automatic suspension)
9.
Insubordination
10.
Violation of Acceptable Use Policy
11.
Passing or writing obscene, violent, or threatening material
12.
Falsification of documents
13.
Intimidation / Bullying / Threatening / Harassing (Depending on severity and follow Policy # 5517) (verbal, non-verbal, electronic)
14.
Misconduct during detention
15.
Complicity for Level 2 Offenses
Level Three Violations *Not all acts of misconduct can be listed individually. The following is a guide of some major violations, unless otherwise specified.
1st Offense – Suspension (3 days) 2nd Offense – Suspension (5 days) 36
3rd Offense – Recommendation for Expulsion 1.
Fighting First Offense - five (5) days out-of-school suspension. Second Offense - ten (10) days out-of-school suspension with a recommendation for expulsion, also charges will be filed with the Girard Police Department. Consequences depend on the severity of the fight and the safety of the rest of the student body and staff.
D.
2.
Possession or use of tobacco products (including lighter)
3.
Theft
4.
Vandalism
5.
Blatant Disrespect, Overt Defiance to Authority
6.
Physical/verbal/nonverbal/electronic abuse of a student
7.
Complicity for Level 3 violations
Level Four Violations *Not all acts of misconduct can be listed individually. The following is a guide of some major violations, unless otherwise specified. 1st Offense – 10 Days out of school suspension with Recommendation for Expulsion
1.
Use of, possession of, under the influence of alcohol or drugs (follow Policy # 5530
2.
Distributing / Trafficking of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs (follow Policy # 5530
3.
Inducing a panic
4.
Physical, verbal, written, or electronic abuse of a staff member or their property on or off of school grounds
5.
Assault on a student
6.
Extortion
7.
Bringing or possessing a weapon or a look alike weapon on school grounds
8.
Indecent exposure by a student (Refer to Policy # 5517)
9.
Chronic Misconduct - This would include all areas of offenses where suspension was used as a remedy, but had not proven successful in changing student behavior.
10. Arson or attempted arson 11. Bomb threats 12. Inappropriate touching of another student 13. Gangs and gang-related activity (signs, symbols, reference, involvement) 37
14. Complicity for above offenses Procedures for Suspension A.
When a reason for a student to be suspended becomes known, the student's parent or legal guardian will be contacted. The student shall be given a written notification of the charges against him/her and the possible action to be taken.
B.
The student will be given an opportunity to sign the form indicating that s/he understands the charges. If a student denies the charges, she/he will be shown the evidence supporting the charges and will be given the opportunity to state a defense.
C.
If during the meeting the administrator feels there are grounds for suspension, the suspension form is then presented. Within twenty-four (24) hours, a written notice signed by the administrator stating the length and reason for the suspension shall be sent to the parent or guardian. This form shall also include the date, time, and site of the rule or policy infraction.
D.
To be included in the suspension notice shall be notification to the student and parent of their right to appeal the action taken by the building administrator. If the parent is not satisfied, there may be subsequent appeals to the Board or its designee. The parent and the student have the right to be represented in all such appeal proceedings and to be granted a hearing against such suspension and/or expulsion. The parent or student has a right to request that such a hearing be held in executive session. All matters shall be in accordance with State law.
E.
When school authorities feel that circumstances are such that a student's presence in the school building during the completion of normal suspension procedures would be too hazardous or disruptive, the student may be removed immediately.
F.
An informal meeting shall follow such immediate removal between school officials, the student, and parent or legal guardian. At this time the student shall be given written notice of the charges against him/her and the possible action to be taken.
G.
If the student denies the charges, she/he will be told of the evidence supporting the charges against him/her and will be given the opportunity to state a defense.
H.
If suspension follows this meeting, within twenty-four (24) hours a written notice signed by the administrator telling the length and the reason for the suspension (including the date, time, place, and the rule or policy the student violated) will be sent to the parent or guardian.
I.
Notification shall be given to the student, his/her parent or guardian of the right to appeal the action to the Board or its designee, to be represented in all such appeals proceedings and to be granted such a hearing against suspension and expulsion. 38
J.
This hearing shall be held in executive session with all matters being handled in accordance with State law.
Procedures for Expulsion The student should use the same procedures as used for suspension written in Section I, Part D of Suspension and Expulsion. In addition to the procedure, no student shall be expelled without the following: A.
A written notice sent to the student and parent or legal guardian of the student describing the charges against the student, the possible action to be taken, and the date, time, and place of the hearing to be held by the Superintendent or his/her designee if the charges are to be denied, or if the student or his/her parent or legal guardian wish to state a defense.
B.
At this hearing the Superintendent or his/her designee, the student or his/her parents or legal guardians will be given an explanation of the evidence in support of the charges.
Appeal to the Board of Education When the Superintendent expels a student, the student and parents or legal guardians may appeal the expulsion to the Board or its designee in accordance with State law. At the request of the student, his/her parent or legal guardian, student advocate, or attorney, the Board may, by a majority vote of its full membership, reinstate the student to school.
DISTRICT DRUG POLICY The use of controlled substances in our society is a problem that must be addressed in order to stem the tragedies that we see virtually every day. With this in mind, we, the educators and administrators of the Girard City Schools do agree to establish the following terms: which shall apply to actions of students on school premises; at or on Board owned or controlled properties/facilities; at school functions, home or away; and/or within the school safety zone which is defined as a school, school building, school premises, school activity, school bus, and an area within 1,000 feet of the boundaries of any school premises. A. Any student found to be using, possessing or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any other narcotic or intoxicant not specifically prescribed for that student (by a certified physician) or in possession of drug paraphernalia shall be suspended ten (10) days out of school with a recommendation for expulsion. A hearing will then be established with the student, his/her parent(s)/guardian(s), and the administration. If the student and his/her parents/guardians comply with the recommendation of the school's administration, the suspension may be reduced to five (5) days and five (5) detentions, and the recommendation for expulsion may be placed in abeyance at the discretion of the administrator. In 39
addition, during the out-of-school suspension, the student will be required to perform community service as assigned by the administration. In addition, the matter will be referred to local law enforcement for appropriate charges. B. Any student found to be using or possessing nicotine products or in possession of smoking paraphernalia will: 1st offense – five (5) days out of school suspension. If the student and his/her parents agree to complete the recommendation of the administration, the suspension may be reduced to two (2) days out of school suspension. The remaining three (3) days may be placed in abeyance at the discretion of the administrator. 2nd offense – ten (10) days out of school suspension, with a recommendation for expulsion. If the student and his/her parents agree to complete an eighty (80) hour program, the suspension may be reduced to five (5) days and the recommendation for expulsion may be placed into abeyance until the eighty (80) hour program is completed; 3rd offense – ten (10) days out of school suspension with a recommendation for expulsion. C. The program shall accept other referrals (i.e., the program shall be made available to all students with need for it, not necessarily only students caught possessing, using, or found to have used drugs, alcohol, nicotine, or any other narcotic or intoxicant. A student may also be referred through self-referral or referrals from teachers, administrators, parents/ guardians, city police and/or juvenile authorities, clergy, other students or other concerned persons). D. Failure by any student admitted to the program under section A to participate in the program or fulfill his/her obligation to the administration's recommendation or failure by any parent/guardian to allow a student's participation in the program of fulfillment of the obligation to the administration's recommendation and any recommendation(s) made by outside agencies to which the student has been referred by the administration shall result in continued out of school suspension from the school of that student with a recommendation for expulsion, which shall result in the maximum eighty (80) day expulsion. Notification to appropriate officials shall be made concerning this student's driving license. E. No staff member may excuse a student from a participation in the program or excuse a student from disciplinary action. A student may appeal any decision to the Board of Education which shall decide upon the appeal or the suspension and/or expulsion. The Board may also remand the student's case back to the administration for further recommendations. F.
Any student found selling, offering for sale, purchasing, attempting to purchase, trafficking in, distributing, preparing for shipment, transporting, or delivering a controlled substance shall be suspended ten (10) days out of school followed by an eighty (80) day expulsion, upon each offense. Further notification to appropriate officials shall be made concerning the student's action and his/her driving license. The student must complete the recommendation of the administration while on expulsion.
G. Any student found a second time either possessing, using, or determined to be under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any other narcotic or intoxicant not specifically prescribed for that student by a certified physician or in possession of drug paraphernalia (whether or not the administration's recommendation on the first offense has been issued, agreed to or completed) shall be suspended ten 40
(10) days out of school followed by an eighty (80) day expulsion, and referred to an outside alcohol/drug agency. Further notification to appropriate officials shall be made concerning the student's action and his/her driving license. H. Any student referred to the administration by the Girard City Police or Trumbull County Juvenile Center must participate in the program by following the recommendation of the administration. Failure to follow or complete that recommendation shall cause those students' case to be referred back to the appropriate organization. Students possessing, using, purchasing, attempting to purchase, under the influence or found to have used any controlled substance mentioned in section one (1) herein or found to be in attendance at an activity attended primarily by students where illegal use or consumption is prevalent may be referred to the administration by the police or juvenile authorities. I.
Under the supervision of the administrator, workshops may be conducted for staff, community and students.
J.
An administrator who has been trained in intervention and/or prevention shall head the program; the administrator shall be responsible for applying all aspects of the Program.
K. All group facilitators must be trained in a program approved by administrator. L. The administrator shall coordinate the Program with facilitators, school authorities, local authorities and community organizations and agencies. M. All referrals and any information obtained at any stage of the Program shall be kept with the utmost confidence. No information shall be made public unless deemed absolutely necessary by the administrator. N. The administration shall appoint a Junior High Liaison and Elementary Liaison.
Students Right to an Education The right of every Ohio resident between the ages of six (6) and twenty-one (21) to a free public education has been clearly and undeniably established by Ohio Law and reaffirmed time and time again by Ohio courts. R.C. 3313.48 provides part that "The Board of Education of each city, exempted village, and local school district shall provide for the free education of the youth of school age within the district of its jurisdiction". Ohio Courts have held that all students, irrespective of race, creed, color, or sex, are entitled to the same courses of education and facilities in Ohio's public schools. All students in Ohio's public schools are equally entitled to the enjoyment of all education opportunities provided by the Ohio public school system. At the same time, however, the General Assembly and the courts have also made it clear that each student in the Ohio public school system has the responsibility to act in such a way as not to interfere with the rights of others to the same educational opportunity, and that a student may forfeit his rights when his conduct is such that it substantially disrupts the educational process and deprives others of their rights. 41
The Girard City Schools, and the Board of Education, entrusted with the responsibility of operating the school system in accordance with state statute and court interpretation of these statutes, recognize their responsibility to the citizens of Girard. R.C. 3313.20 authorizes Boards of Education to make the rules and regulations that are necessary to maintaining order in its schools. The courts have emphasized the point that these regulations be reasonable. This policy details reasonable, just and necessary regulations for maintaining order in the schools, the rights and commensurate responsibilities of our students, and the processes of enforcement available to school administrators. Revised 9/06 Revised 7/25/07 Revised 7/27/11
DRUG TESTING OF STUDENTS IN NON-ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES STATEMENT OF NEED AND PURPOSE The Girard City School District Board of Education recognizes that the misuse of drugs is a serious problem with legal, physical, and social implications for the whole school community. The Board of Education takes its responsibilities regarding this problem seriously and is determined to be pro-active regarding the use of drugs by District students. The Board acknowledges that participating in extracurricular activities and taking responsibility for transportation to and from school are important markers in a student’s educational experience and personal growth. Nevertheless, the Board recognizes that participation in non-academic activities is a privilege that carries with it the responsibility for the safety of the entire Girard City School community. This program shall apply to all Girard Junior High and High School students, or any students attending other schools directly affiliated with Girard City Schools, who participate in school sponsored athletics or other extracurricular activities and to eligible students who wish to obtain a parking permit.
This drug testing program has been established to provide a means of deterrence to develop a truly drug-free school environment and to assist students in getting help when needed. The purpose of the program is: A.
Provide for the health and safety of all students;
B. Undermine the effects of peer pressure by providing a legitimate reason for students to refuse to use illegal drugs; and 42
C. program.
Encourage students who use illegal drugs to participate in a treatment
The Superintendent shall establish procedures and guidelines regarding implementation of this policy that are consistent with its stated purpose. The guidelines shall include a clear statement that disciplinary sanctions, up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the school standards of conduct and a description of those sanctions; the sanctions may include, mandatory referral to appropriate persons or agencies for screening and assessment. Such referral may only be made to qualified and properly licensed individuals or programs. The guidelines shall also require that all parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct regarding the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs by students as well as a copy of the guidelines and this Policy. Parent(s) and students shall receive notification that clearly advises them that compliance with the standards of conduct and drug testing are mandatory for those students to which this policy and the guidelines apply. Moreover, the Board shall institute a biennial review of the Drug Testing program to determine its effectiveness and implement changes as needed and to ensure that disciplinary sanctions are consistently enforced. DRUG TESTING REQUIREMENT Upon request to participate in athletics, extracurricular activities, or to obtain a parking permit, parent(s) and students will be required to provide written consent for testing prior to participation in the non-academic activity, and to submit to random testing on a periodic basis throughout a twelve-month period. The guidelines shall establish a process for random testing of all student athletes and extra-curricular participants, including students who wish to obtain a parking permit, and the process for students that may be tested based on reasonable suspicion. Random drug testing and/or oral screening continues throughout the period.
The results of the tests shall not become part of the students’ permanent record, but any documentation supporting a test based on reasonable suspicion shall be maintained in the student’s record. Test results will not be reported to law enforcement authorities, and test information will not be released to law enforcement or other parties except in response to a lawfully executed subpoena. In the latter case, parents will be notified within 48-hours of the receipt of the subpoena. Likewise, test information shall only be released to persons designated in Board regulation and procedures.
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This drug testing policy is non-punitive. However, the testing program does not affect current policies of the Board regarding student drug, tobacco, or alcohol possession, or use where reasonable suspicion is established by means other than testing as outlined in this policy. Adopted 8/27/14
DETENTION Detention is held on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays after school from 2:45-5:45. Students assigned detention will receive notice in school and parents will be notified by notice in the mail. A roster of students scheduled for detention will be posted outside of the assistant principal’s office.
IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION (I.S.S.) Students may be assigned in-school suspension in lieu of out of school suspension or detention. Students are given the opportunity to complete school-work for credit while in in-school suspension.
PROHIBITION FROM EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Participation in extra-curricular activities, including interscholastic sports, is a privilege and not a right. Therefore, the Board of Education authorizes the Superintendent, principals, and assistant principals and other authorized personnel employed by the District to supervise or coach a student activity program, to prohibit a student from participating in any particular or all extra-curricular activities of the District for offenses or violations of the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code for a period not to exceed the remainder of the school year in which the offense or violation of the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code took place. In addition, student athletes are further subject to the Athletic Code of Conduct and may be prohibited from participating in all or part of any interscholastic sport for violations therein. Students prohibited from participation in all or part of any extra-curricular activity are not entitled to further notice, hearing, or appeal rights. This policy shall be posted in a central location in each school building and will be available to students upon request. R.C. 3313.664
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES
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In order to avoid disruption of the educational environment and protect students' right of privacy, student use of personal communication devices (PCDs) is prohibited on school grounds during school hours. Technology including, but not limited to, PCDs intended and actually used for instructional purposes (e.g., taking notes, recording classroom lectures, writing papers) will be permitted, as approved by the classroom teacher or the building principal. However, the use of a PCD to engage in non-education-related communications is expressly prohibited. For purposes of this policy, "personal communication device" includes computers, tablets (e.g., IPads and similar devices), electronic readers ("e-readers"; e.g., Kindles and similar devices), cell phones (e.g., mobile/cellular telephones, smartphones (e.g., BlackBerry, IPhone, Android devices, Windows Mobile devices, etc.)), and/or other web-enabled devices of any type. Students may not use PCDs on school property or at a schoolsponsored activity to access and/or view Internet web sites that are otherwise blocked to students at school. Students may use PCDs while riding to and from school on a school bus or other Board-provided vehicles or on a school bus or Board-provided vehicle during school-sponsored activities, at the discretion of the bus driver, classroom teacher and/or sponsor/advisor/coach. Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated. Also, during after school activities, PCDs shall be powered completely off (not just placed into vibrate or silent mode) and stored out of sight when directed by the administrator or sponsor. Under certain circumstances, a student may keep his/her PCD "On" with prior approval from the building principal. Except as authorized by a teacher, administrator or IEP team, students are prohibited from using PCDs during the school day, including while off-campus on a field trip, to capture, record and/or transmit the words or sounds (i.e., audio) and/or images (i.e., pictures/video) of any student, staff member or other person. Using a PCD to capture, record and/or transmit audio and/or pictures/video of an individual without proper consent is considered an invasion of privacy and is not permitted. Students who violate this provision and/or use a PCD to violate the privacy rights of another person may have their PCD confiscated and held until the end of the school day, a parent/guardian picks it up, and may be directed to delete the audio and/or picture/video file while the parent/guardian is present. If the violation involves potentially illegal activity the confiscated-PCD may be turned-over to law enforcement. PCDs, including but not limited to those with cameras, may not be activated or utilized at any time in any school situation where a reasonable expectation of personal privacy exists. These locations and circumstances include, but are not limited to, classrooms, gymnasiums, locker rooms, shower facilities, rest/bathrooms, and any other areas where students or others may change clothes or be in any stage or degree of disrobing or changing clothes. The Superintendent and building principals are authorized to determine other specific locations and situations where use of a PCD is absolutely prohibited. 45
Students shall have no expectation of confidentiality with respect to their use of PCDs on school premises/property. Students may not use a PCD in any way that might reasonably create in the mind of another person an impression of being threatened, humiliated, harassed, embarrassed or intimidated. See Policy 5517.01 – Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior. In particular, students are prohibited from using PCDs to: (1) transmit material that is threatening, obscene, disruptive, or sexually explicit or that can be construed as harassment or disparagement of others based upon their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, ancestry, or political beliefs; and (2) engage in "sexting" - i.e., sending, receiving, sharing, viewing, or possessing pictures, text messages, e-mails or other materials of a sexual nature in electronic or any other form. Violation of these prohibitions shall result in disciplinary action. Furthermore, such actions will be reported to local law enforcement and child services as required by law. Students are also prohibited from using a PCD to capture, record, and/or transmit test information or any other information in a manner constituting fraud, theft, cheating, or academic dishonesty. Likewise, students are prohibited from using PCDs to receive such information. Possession of a PCD by a student at school during school hours is a privilege that may be forfeited by any student who fails to abide by the terms of this policy, or otherwise abuses this privilege. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the PCD. The building principal will also refer the matter to law enforcement or child services if the violation involves an illegal activity (e.g., child pornography, sexting). Discipline will be imposed on an escalating scale ranging from a warning to an expulsion based on the number of previous violations and/or the nature of or circumstances surrounding a particular violation. If the PCD is confiscated, it will be released/returned to the student's parent/guardian after the student complies with any other disciplinary consequences that are imposed, unless the violation involves potentially illegal activity in which case the PCD may be turned-over to law enforcement. A confiscated device will be marked in a removable manner with the student's name and held in a secure location in the building's central office until it is retrieved by the parent/guardian or turned-over to law enforcement. School officials will not search or otherwise tamper with PCDs in District custody unless they reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of the law or other school rules. Any search will be conducted in accordance with Policy 5771 – Search and Seizure. If multiple offenses occur, a student may lose his/her privilege to bring a PCD to school for a designated length of time or on a permanent basis. A person who discovers a student using a PCD in violation of this policy is required to report the violation to the building principal. Students are personally and solely responsible for the care and security of their PCDs. The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, or damage to, or misuse or unauthorized use of, PCDs brought onto its property. 46
Parents/Guardians are advised that the best way to get in touch with their child during the school day is by calling the school office. Students may use school phones to contact parents/guardians during the school day. Adopted 12/14/05 Revised 11/28/12
DRESS AND GROOMING The Board of Education recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices interfere with the educational program of the schools. The Board authorizes the Superintendent to establish a reasonable dress code in order to promote a safe and healthy school setting and enhance the educational environment. The dress code shall be incorporated into the Student Code of Conduct or Discipline Code. Accordingly, the Superintendent shall establish such grooming guidelines as are necessary to promote discipline, maintain order, secure the safety of students, and provide a healthy environment conducive to academic purposes. Such guidelines shall prohibit student dress or grooming practices which: A. present a hazard to the health or safety of the student himself/herself or to others in the school; B. materially interfere with school work, create disorder, or disrupt the educational program; C.
cause excessive wear or damage to school property;
D. prevent the student from achieving his/her own educational objectives because of blocked vision or restricted movement. Such guidelines shall establish the dress requirements for members of the athletic teams, bands, and other school groups when representing the District at a public event. The Superintendent shall develop administrative guidelines to implement this policy. Students who violate the foregoing rules will not be admitted to class and may be suspended from school. R.C. 3313.20, 3313.60, 3313.661, 3313.665
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STUDENT DRESS CODE
2017-2018
All students are expected to adhere to common practices of modesty, cleanliness and neatness and to dress in such a manner as to contribute to an academic atmosphere. Any clothing, object, or manner of personal grooming that is unsafe, unhealthy, or is otherwise disruptive to the educational process is prohibited. The following is a listing of sample violations. This is not an allinclusive list.
JEWELRY Jewelry that is disruptive or causes a valid health or safety risk. Jewelry that is dangerous such as dog collars, fish hooks, wallet chains, belt chains, spiked jewelry, etc CLOTHING Clothing with writing, pictures, symbols relating to alcohol, drugs, sexual connotations, racial slurs, profanity, violence, cults, gangs, prisons, death, gore Clothing with names and/or logos of high schools other than Girard High School Ripped, torn, frayed or cut off clothing that exposes skin Pants, shorts and skirts not worn at the waist or that are see through Sleepwear, including pajamas and/or slippers Shirts that reveal the mid-section, shoulders, cleavage, back, or are see through Shorts that do not extend beyond fingertip length around the entirety of the garment (Aug, Sep, Oct, April, & May only) Open toe shoes without socks Outdoor clothing in classrooms (hats, gloves, coats) Skirts that do not extend beyond fingertip length Hats, caps, scarves, bandanas Buttons, badges, patches or other items with obscene or offensive words, phrases, or illustrations HAIR STYLES Hair covering the eyes Facial hair not trimmed and groomed Shavings in the eyebrows
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GIRARD JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BEHAVIOR INFRACTIONS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES Student Name_________________________ Date________ Student Grade_______ Teacher___________________ Administrative Use Only: ___ 1Hour Detention ___ 2 Hour Detention ___ 3 Hour Detention ___ Suspension (1-3 Days) ___ 5 Days Out of School Suspension / Recommendation for Expulsion Date and day the detention/suspension will be served__________________________________ Green Card Level 1 Violations (Unless otherwise indicated.) 1st. Violation One-hour detention 2nd. Violation Two-hour detention 3rd. Violation Three-hour detention 4th. Violation Suspension (1-3 Days) th 5 . Violation 5 Days Out Of School Suspension / Recommendation for Expulsion
_____Profanity _____Dress Code _____Violation of Classroom rules _____Misbehavior in assembly, halls, cafeteria _____Eating or drinking outside cafeteria _____Being in an unauthorized area _____Late to class _____In halls without a pass _____Disrespect (depends on severity on punishment issued) _____Bringing back packs or book bags into the classroom _____Unauthorized parking _____Public display of affection _____Truant to or misconduct during detention (1st offense double original detention time , 2nd offense 1 day suspension) _____Failure to sign in or out _____Failure to follow locker procedures _____Leave cafeteria during lunch without permission _____Tardy to school (beginning with 4th offense) _____Unauthorized use of Personal Communication Device _____Complicity for Level 1 offenses _____Other
Teacher Comments: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________
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GIRARD JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BEHAVIOR INFRACTIONS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES Student Name_____________________________ Date____________ Student Grade_____________ Teacher______________________ Administrative Use Only: ___ 3 Hour Detention / Suspension ___ Suspension (3 Days) ___ Recommendation for Expulsion Date and day the detention/suspension will be served__________________________________ Yellow Card 1st. Violation 2nd. Violation 3rd. Violation
Level 2 Violations (Unless otherwise indicated.) Three-hour detention / Suspension Suspension (3 days) Recommendation for Expulsion
_____Truancy from school grounds _____Truancy from class _____Defiant/belligerent behavior _____Dismissal from class _____Abuse of school property _____Forgery of a hall pass _____Gambling _____Using profanity with the F word (Automatic suspension) _____Insubordination _____Violation of Acceptable Use Policy (Follow AUP Guidelines) _____Passing or writing obscene, violent, or threatening material _____Falsification of documents _____Intimidation / Bullying (depends on severity) _____Misconduct during detention _____Recording classmates/staff members without prior consent/WCD _____Harassing another student (also follow Policy #5517) _____Threatening another student verbally, non-verbally, or electronically _____Complicity for above offenses
Teacher Comments: __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________
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GIRARD JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BEHAVIOR INFRACTIONS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES Student Name___________________________ Date______________ Student Grade_____________ Teacher_____________________ Administrative Use Only: ___ 3 Day Suspension ___ 5 Day Suspension ___ Recommendation for Expulsion Date and day the detention/suspension will be served__________________________ Orange Card 1st. Violation 2nd. Violation 3rd. Violation
Level 3 Violations (Unless otherwise indicated.) 3 Day Suspension 5 Day Suspension Recommendation for Expulsion
_____Possession/use of tobacco products including lighter (also follow Policy #5530) _____Blatant disrespect, overt defiance to authority _____Fighting (1st. offense 5 days out, 2nd. Offense 10 days out with recommendation for expulsion) _____Physical, verbal, written, or electronic abuse of a student _____Vandalism _____Theft / Stealing _____Complicity for above offenses _____Other
Teacher Comments: ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________
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GIRARD JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL BEHAVIOR INFRACTIONS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES Student Name_____________________________________ Date____________ Student Grade_____________ Teacher_____________________________ Administrative Use Only: ___ 10 Days out of School Suspension with Recommendation for Expulsion Date and day the suspension will be served__________________________________ Red Card 1st. Violation Expulsion
Level 4 Violations (Unless otherwise indicated.) 10 Days out of School Suspension with Recommendation for
_____Use of, possession of, under the influence of alcohol or drugs (also follow Policy #5530) _____Distributing / Trafficking of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs (also follow Policy #5530) _____Inducing a panic _____Physical, verbal, written, or electronic abuse of a staff member or their property on or off of school property _____Assault on a student _____Gang (signs, symbols, references, or involvement) _____Extortion _____Bringing or possession of a weapon and their look alike on school grounds _____Indecent exposure by a student _____Arson or attempted arson _____Bomb threats _____Inappropriate touching of another student _____Complicity for above offenses _____Other
Teacher Comments: ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________
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STUDENT NETWORK AND INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE AND SAFETY Technology has fundamentally altered the ways in which information is accessed, communicated, and transferred in society. As a result, educators are continually adapting their means and methods of instruction, and the way they approach student learning, to incorporate the vast, diverse, and unique resources available through the Internet. The Board provides Education Technology so that students can acquire the skills and knowledge to learn effectively and live productively in a digital world. The Board of Education provides students with access to the Internet for limited educational purposes only and utilizes online educational services to enhance the instruction delivered to its students. The District’s Internet system does not serve as a public access service or a public forum, and the Board imposes reasonable restrictions on its use consistent with its limited educational purpose. This policy and its related administrative guidelines and the Student Code of Conduct govern students’ use of the District’s personal communication devices (that is, according to Policy 5136, computers, laptops, tablets, e-readers, cellular/mobile telephones, smartphones, and any other web-enabled device), network, and Internet connection and online educational services ("Education Technology" or "Ed-Tech"). This policy and its related administrative guidelines and the Student Code of Conduct also govern students’ use of their personal communication devices (that is, according to Policy 5136, computers, laptops, tablets, e-readers, cellular/mobile telephones, smartphones, and any other web-enabled device), when connected to the District’s network, the District’s Internet connection, and online educational services ("Education Technology" or "Ed-Tech"). The due process rights of all users will be respected in the event there is a suspicion of inappropriate use of the Education Technology. Users have no right or expectation of privacy when using the Ed-Tech (including, but not limited to, privacy in the content of their personal files, e-mails, and records of their online activity while on the network and Internet). First, and foremost, the Board may not be able to technologically limit access, through its Education Technology, to only those services and resources that have been authorized for the purpose of instruction, study and research related to the curriculum. Unlike in the past when educators and community members had the opportunity to review and screen materials to assess their appropriateness for supporting and enriching the curriculum according to adopted guidelines and reasonable selection criteria (taking into account the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students who would be exposed to them), access to the Internet, because it serves as a gateway to any publicly available file server in the world, opens classrooms and students to electronic information resources that may not have been screened by educators for use by students of various ages.
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Pursuant to Federal law, the Board has implemented technology protection measures, which protect against (e.g. filter or block) access to visual displays/depictions/materials that are obscene, constitute child pornography, and/or are harmful to minors, as defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act. At the discretion of the Board or the Superintendent, the technology protection measures may be configured to protect against access to other material considered inappropriate for students to access. The Board also utilizes software and/or hardware to monitor online activity of students to restrict access to child pornography and other material that is obscene, objectionable, inappropriate and/or harmful to minors. The technology protection measures may not be disabled at any time that students may be using the Education Technology if such disabling will cease to protect against access to materials that are prohibited under the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Any student who attempts to disable the technology protection measures will be subject to discipline. The Superintendent or his designee may temporarily or permanently unblock access to websites or online educational services containing appropriate material, if access to such sites has been inappropriately blocked by the technology protection measures. The determination of whether material is appropriate or inappropriate shall be based on the content of the material and the intended use of the material, not on the protection actions of the technology protection measures. Parents are advised that a determined user may be able to gain access to services and/or resources on the Internet that the Board has not authorized for educational purposes. In fact, it is impossible to guarantee students will not gain access through the Internet to information and communications that they and/or their parents may find inappropriate, offensive, objectionable or controversial. Parents of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using the Internet. Pursuant to Federal law, students shall receive education about the following: A.
safety and security while using e-mail, chat rooms, social media, and other forms of direct electronic communications;
B.
the dangers inherent with the online disclosure of personally identifiable information;
C.
the consequences of unauthorized access (e.g., "hacking" "harvesting", "digital piracy", etc.), cyberbullying and other unlawful or inappropriate activities by students online; and
D.
unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors.
Staff members shall provide instruction for their students regarding the appropriate use of technology and online safety and security as specified above. Furthermore, staff members will monitor the online activities of students while at school. 54
Monitoring may include, but is not necessarily limited to, visual observations of online activities during class sessions; or use of specific monitoring tools to review browser history and network, server, and computer logs. Building principals are responsible for providing training so that Internet users under their supervision are knowledgeable about this policy and its accompanying guidelines. The Board expects that staff members will provide guidance and instruction to students in the appropriate use of the Education Technology. Such training shall include, but not be limited to, education concerning appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response. All Internet users (and their parents if they are minors) are required to sign a written agreement to abide by the terms and conditions of this policy and its accompanying guidelines. Students and staff members are responsible for good behavior on the Board's computers/network and the Internet just as they are in classrooms, school hallways, and other school premises and school sponsored events. Communications on the Internet are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. The Board does not sanction any use of the Education Technology that is not authorized by or conducted strictly in compliance with this policy and its accompanying guidelines. Users who disregard this policy and its accompanying guidelines may have their use privileges suspended or revoked, and disciplinary action taken against them. Users of the Education Technology are personally responsible and liable, both civilly and criminally, for uses of the Education Technology not authorized by this Board policy and its accompanying guidelines. The Board designates the Superintendent and principals as the administrators responsible for initiating, implementing, and enforcing this policy and its accompanying guidelines as they apply to students’ use of the District’s Education Technology. P.L. 106-554, Children's Internet Protection Act of 2000 47 U.S.C. 254(h), (1), Communications Act of 1934, as amended (2003) 20 U.S.C. 6801 et seq., Part F, Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (2003) 18 U.S.C. 1460 18 U.S.C. 2246 18 U.S.C. 2256 20 U.S.C. 6777, 9134 (2003) 47 C.F.R. 54.500-54.523 Revised 11/18/09 Revised 4/27/11 Revised 4/25/12 Revised 12/17/14
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USE OF THE LIBRARY The library is available to students throughout the school day. Passes may be obtained from a student’s teacher or from the librarian. Books may be checked out for a two week period, but can be renewed. To check out any other materials, contact the librarian.
If a book is lost of damaged, the students will be responsible for the replacement cost.
STUDENT FEES, FINES, AND CHARGES The Board of Education will provide the necessary textbooks and/or electronic textbooks required by the course of study free of charge for its students. The Board may, however, need to levy certain charges to students to facilitate the utilization of other appropriate learning materials used in the course of instruction. If the District determines that a student is in serious financial need, it may choose to provide any or all such materials free of charge. Any such waiver of these charges shall be made in accordance with Policy 6152.01. A charge shall not exceed the combined cost of the material used, freight and/or handling charges, and nominal add-on for loss. Money received from resale of such material shall be returned to the Treasurer with an accurate accounting of all transactions. School fees shall be paid in advance for each school term at the time of initial registration or initial enrollment.
Fees For the purposes of this policy, "school fees" or "fees" means any monetary charge collected by the District from a student or the parent(s) or guardian of a student as a prerequisite for the student's participation in any curricular or extra-curricular program of the District. A.
"School fees" may include, but are not limited to, the following: 1.
all charges for required workbooks and instructional materials
2.
all charges and deposits collected by a school for use of school property (e.g., locks, towels, laboratory equipment)
3.
charges for field trips made during school hours, or made after school hours if the field trip is a required or 56
customary part of a class or extra-curricular activity
B.
4.
charges or deposits for uniforms or equipment related to varsity and intramural sports, or to fine arts programs
5.
charges to participate in extra-curricular activities
6.
charges for supplies required for a particular class or for gym uniforms
7.
graduation fees
8.
school records fees
9.
driver's education fee assessed pursuant to Ohio Revised Code
"School fees" do not include: 1.
library fines and other charges made for the loss, misuse, or destruction of school property;
2.
charges for the purchase of class rings, yearbooks, pictures, diploma covers, or similar items;
3.
charges for optional travel undertaken by a school club or group of students outside of school hours;
4.
charges for admission to school dances, athletic events, or other social events;
5.
optional community service programs for which fees are charged (e.g., preschool before and after-school child care, recreation programs).
A charge shall not exceed the combined cost of the outside service provided or material used, freight and/or handling charges. Money received from resale of such material, if any, shall be returned to the Treasurer with an accurate accounting of all transactions.
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Fines When school property, equipment, or supplies are damaged, lost, or taken by a student, a fine will be assessed. The fine will be reasonable, seeking only to compensate the school for the expense or loss incurred. The late return of borrowed books or materials from the school libraries will be subject to appropriate fines. Any fees, fines, and/or other charges collected by members of the staff shall be turned in to the Treasurer within one (1) business day after collection. In accordance with R.C. 3313.642, failure to pay fees and fines may result in the withholding of grades and credit. In the event the above course of action does not result in the fee being collected, the Board authorizes the Treasurer to take the student and/or his/her parents to Small Claims Court for collection. . Under no circumstances will the Board withhold the grades, credits, official transcripts, diploma, IEPs, or Section 504 Plans of a student for nonpayment of fees for materials used in the course of instruction, if a complaint has been filed at any time in a juvenile court alleging that the student is an abused, neglected, or dependent child, or if the student has been adjudicated an abused, neglected, or dependent child. Further the Board will transfer immediately the grades, credits, official transcripts, IEPs, or Section 504 Plans of a student upon the receipt of either another district’s or school’s request for those records pursuant to R.C. 3313.672, or a juvenile judge’s order under R.C. 2151.272. The Superintendent may request a copy of any order regarding a child’s custody or placement issued pursuant to a complaint filed under R.C. 2151.27. The Board, however, will not withhold records required to be transferred pursuant to this paragraph pending receipt of a copy of the order. Annually the District will report to the Ohio Department of Education the number of students for whom it sent transcripts pursuant to R.C. 3313.642(D), and the total amount of unpaid fees lost due to compliance with that provision. Nothing in this policy restricts the right of access of a parent or student to school records or to receive copies of such records, as required by Federal and State laws. R.C. 3313.642, 9.38 Revised 12/18/13
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY First:
NHS Selection of Members will be a five step process. The selection of membership to this chapter shall be by a Faculty Council consisting of five members of the Girard High School faculty representing various disciplines, supervised by the NHS adviser. The selection of each member shall be by a majority vote of the Faculty Council. The NHS adviser does not have a vote in the process. 58
Second:
A letter and Student Activity form will be sent to all junior and senior students who have attained the minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.2 at the end of their sophomore year for juniors, and at the end of the junior year for seniors, to apprise them of their eligibility for NHS.
Third:
A morning announcement will be made to apprise students that eligibility letters were sent out. Any student not receiving a letter, but believing he/she is eligible, may seek to be considered for eligibility by having his or her grade point average checked by a guidance counselor. The counselor shall report his/her finding to the NHS Adviser. If the student is indeed eligible, the student in question will receive all forms immediately. It is the student’s responsibility to begin this inquiry within 5 school days from the time eligibility letters were sent out. Returning the form with the student and parent/guardian signature within two full weeks from the mailing of the eligibility letters acknowledges the student’s interest in pursuing possible membership in the organization.
Fourth:
The Student Activity Forms will be reviewed by each member of the Faculty Council and rated on a scale of 1-4 in the area of Service. In order to be awarded service points, candidates must show a commitment to service both in our school and in our community. Candidates must demonstrate service in the community that is done without any direct financial or material compensation during their high school career. Points will be scored as follows: One point for 1-20 hours of service, two points for 21-30 hours of service, three points for 31-40 hours of service, and four points for over 40 hours of service.
Fifth:
A list of all students who have returned their student activity forms will be compiled by the NHS adviser so it can be forwarded to the entire Girard High School teaching faculty for evaluation in the areas of leadership and character. Each student shall be rated separately in the areas of character and leadership by each teacher who has had professional interaction with the student via the classroom, clubs, teams, or other functions of the school on a scale of 1-4 (four being the highest).
The National Honor Society handbook describes Character and Leadership in the following ways: CHARACTER: Character is the force within each individual, which distinguishes that person from others. It gives each one individuality. It is that without which no one can respect oneself, nor hope to attain the respect of others. It is the force of character, which guides one through life and, when once developed, grows steadily. Character is achieved and not received. It is the product of constant action, daily striving to make the right choices. By demonstrating such qualities as reliability, honesty, and sincerity, we may hope to prove by example that we value character.
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LEADERSHIP: Leadership should exert a wholesome influence on the school. In taking the initiative in class and school activities, the real leader strives to train and aid others to attain the same objective. The price of leadership is sacrifice – the willingness to yield one’s personal interests for the interests of others. A leader has self-confidence and will go forward when others hesitate. No matter what power and resources may exist in a country, they are ineffectual without the guidance of a wise leader. Leadership is always needed; thus, to lead is a substantive charge to each of our members and to the candidates. Students receive a separate rating in the areas of Character and Leadership. The ratings will not necessarily be the same in both areas. A basic scoring guide is provided below in order to standardize the responses from the staff. Each student’s scores will be averaged separately in Character and Leadership.
4 = Student always demonstrates qualities that are reflective of Character/Leadership. 3 = Student usually demonstrates qualities that are reflective of Character/Leadership. 2 = Student rarely demonstrates qualities that are reflective of Character/Leadership. 1 = Student never demonstrates traits that are reflective of Character/Leadership.
Those rating sheets will be returned to the NHS adviser. All of the ratings for each student will be totaled and an average rating in both leadership and character will be entered on the student’s point worksheet.
The final selection of members will be made by the Faculty Council after a thorough review of all relevant information pertaining to the candidacy of each student, after which a vote will be taken and those students receiving a majority vote will be invited to join, per Article IX, Section 3 of the national constitution. The role of the Chapter Adviser during these proceedings shall be strictly as an advocate for the candidates and not as a voting member of the Faculty Committee.
WORK PERMITS In accordance with Ohio Laws, when a student reaches sixteen years of age and has or wishes to hold a part-time or full-time job, he/she must secure a work permit. Applications forms for a work permit may be obtained from the office of the Superintendent.
STUDENTS DRIVING TO SCHOOL A student driving to school must park on campus. Student parking permits are available in the Main Office and must be in compliance with Girard City School District Policy 5515. Student parking is restricted to the south parking lot of Girard High School.
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BUS PRIVILEGES The State of Ohio has certain rules governing buses. (1) While on the bus, the students are under the authority of and direct responsibility of the bus driver. (2) He/she is responsible for orderly conduct. Cases of disorderly conduct or of refusal to abide by the authority of the bus driver will be referred to the school authorities. Loss of bus privileges may result. (3) If you are detained after school, you will need to arrange for another form of transportation home.
ATTENDANCE/HOUSE BILL 410 The educational program offered by this District is predicated upon the presence of the student and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation. Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the schools during the days and hours that the school is in session or during the attendance sessions to which s/he has been assigned. In accordance with statute, the Superintendent shall require, from the parent of each student of compulsory school age or from an adult student who has been absent from school or from class for any reason, a written statement, phone call, or e-mail stating the cause for such absence. The Board of Education reserves the right to verify such statements and to investigate the cause of each single absence or prolonged absence. Repeated infractions of Board policy on attendance may result in suspension or expulsion. The Board considers the following factors to be reasonable excuses for time missed at school: A. personal illness (a written physician’s statement verifying the illness may be required) B. illness in the family necessitating the presence of the child C. quarantine of the home D. death in the family E. necessary work at home due to absence or incapacity of parent(s)/guardian(s) F.
observation or celebration of a bona fide religious holiday
G. out-of-state travel (up to a maximum of four (4) days per school year) to participate in a District-approved enrichment or extra-curricular activity Any classroom assignment missed due to the absence shall be completed by the student. H. such good cause as may be acceptable to the Superintendent I.
medically necessary leave for a pregnant student in accordance with Policy 5751
J.
service as a precinct officer at a primary, special or general election in accordance with the program set forth in Policy 5725
Attendance need not always be within the school facilities, but a student will be considered to be in attendance if present at any place where school is in session by authority of the Board. The Board shall consider each student assigned to a program of other guided learning experiences to be in regular attendance for the program provided that s/he reports to such staff member s/he is assigned for guidance at the place in which s/he is conducting study, and regularly demonstrates progress toward the objectives of the course of study. 61
The Superintendent may excuse a student over fourteen (14) years of age from attendance at school for a future limited period for the purpose of performing essential work directly or exclusively for his/her parents or guardians. House Bill 410 to encourage and support a preventative approach to excessive absences and truancy. Beginning with the 2017-2018 school year, several changes take effect. Schools cannot suspend or expel students for missing too much school. Districts will amend or adopt policies that outline their interventions and plans for students who miss too much school. A district or school absence intervention team, a team of educators, district representatives and other supportive adults, will develop a specialized absence intervention plan for students who are habitually truant. Absence intervention plans incorporate academic and non-academic supports to help the student and remove barriers to regular attendance. The legislation highlights the importance of parental engagement and accountability as part of a student’s absence intervention plan. Highlights of HB 410: 1. Truancy is decriminalized, with chronic truancy removed from the law. 2. Definition of ‘habitual truant’ changed from days to hours. The new definition is: a. Absent 30 or more consecutive hours without a legitimate excuse; b. Absent 42 or more hours in one month without a legitimate excuse; or c. Absent 72 or more hours in one year without a legitimate excuse. 3. Includes ‘excessive absences’: a. Absent 38 or more hours in one school month with or without a legitimate excuse; or b. Absent 65 or more hours in one school year with or without a legitimate excuse. 4. Requires updates to district policies, such as removing ‘excessive absences’ from zero tolerance policies and committing to preventative approaches to truancy rather than suspensions or expulsions. 5. The creation of an absence intervention team to develop absence intervention plans for students who are habitually truant. DEFINITION OF TRUANCY AND EXCESSIVE ABSENCES 1. Chronic truant is removed from the law; 2. Definition of ‘habitual truant’ changed from days to hours. The new definition is: a. Absent 30 or more consecutive hours without a legitimate excuse; b. Absent 42 or more hours in one month without a legitimate excuse; c. Absent 72 or more hours in one year without a legitimate excuse. 3. Includes ‘excessive absences’: a. Absent 38 or more hours in one school month with or without a legitimate excuse; b. Absent 65 or more hours in one school year with or without a legitimate excuse. TRUANCY IS DECRIMINALIZED WITH SEVERAL CHANGES 1. Districts must remove ‘excessive truancy,’ from the zero tolerance policy for violent, disruptive or inappropriate behavior; 2. Students cannot be expelled or suspended (out of school) for being truant (beginning July 1, 2017); 3. Districts must take several steps to engage the 62
student and family before filing a complaint with juvenile court (including parental notification, an absence intervention team and an absence intervention plan detailed below): a. A complaint cannot be filed until 61 days after failed implementation of an absence intervention plan or unless; or b. If a child has been absent without legitimate excuse for 30 or more consecutive hours or 42 or more hours in a month during the implementation of an absence intervention plan. 2 │ HB 410 │ April 2017 4. Juvenile court should consider alternatives to adjudication and adjudication should be used as a last resort. STUDENT DISCIPLINE CHANGES 1. Schools may permit students to make up missed work due to suspensions; 2. Schools cannot apply any remaining part or all of a suspension to the following school year, but the superintendent may require a student to participate in community service or an alternative consequence for the number of hours equal to the time left on the suspension. EMIS REPORTING CHANGES 1. When a district notifies a parent when a student has excessive absences; 2. When a child has been absent without legitimate excuse for 30 or more consecutive hours, 42 or more hours in one school month, or 72 or more hours in one school year; 3. When a child has been adjudicated an unruly child for being a habitual truant violates the court order regarding that adjudication; 4. When an absence intervention plan has been implemented for a child. DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN A CHILD HAS EXCESSIVE ABSENCES When a student is excessively from school the following will occur: 1. The district will notify the student’s parents in writing within seven days of the triggering absence; 2. The student will follow the district’s plan for absence intervention; and 3. The student and family may be referred to community resources. DISTRICT RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN A CHILD IS HABITUALLY TRUANT When a student is habitually truant, the following will occur: 1. Within seven days of the triggering absence, the district will do the following: a. Select members of the absence intervention team; b. Make three meaningful attempts to secure the student’s parent or guardian’s participation on the absence intervention team. 2. Within 10 days of the triggering absence, the student will be assigned to the selected absence intervention team; 3. Within 14 days after the assignment of the team, the district will develop the student’s absence intervention plan; 4. If the student does not make progress on the plan within 61 days or continues to be excessively absent, the district will file a complaint in the juvenile court. Legitimate excuses for the absence of a student who is otherwise habitually or chronically truant include but are not limited to: A. the student was enrolled in another school district; B. the student was excused from attendance in accordance with R.C. 3321.04; or C. the student has received an age and schooling certificate. 63
TITLE IX - EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND COURSE OFFERINGS The Girard Board of Education has adopted a policy of nondiscrimination in educational opportunities or activities for students in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Any student eligible by law to attend Girard City Schools, who believes he/she has a grievance in violation of this policy is advised to discuss the issue with his/her counselor and follow the steps of the Board’s adopted grievance procedure.
TRUMBULL COUNTY CAREER AND TECHNICAL CENTER (TCTC) TCTC, located in Warren, Ohio, offers vocational training in 36 different areas to the 11th and 12th grade students of Girard High School. Most programs begin in the 11th grade. Applications should be completed in February in the school year prior to entry. Selection procedures are available from your counselor. Vocational students spend the entire school day at the vocational school. One and one-half hours are spent in classroom work in their vocational area and three hours per day in a corresponding lab or shop. During the lab, students learn to apply the theory, which they learn in the classroom. They also take one required course each year; English in the Junior year and Social Studies in the senior year.
ALMA MATER STAND AND SING FOR OUR DEAR HIGH SCHOOL FOR WE LOVE HER SO. WE ARE HERE TO SING HER PRAISES AS YEARS COME AND GO. FORWARD EVER BE OUR WATCHWORD: CONQUER AND PREVAIL. HAIL TO THEE, OUR ALMA MATER, HAIL GIRARD, ALL HAIL. SCHOOL COLORS SCHOOL EMBLEM SCHOOL PAPER SCHOOL YEARBOOK
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RED AND BLACK INDIAN TRIBAL TRIBUNE THE REFLECTOR
