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OFFICIAL STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK SS-M1-R1 2014 – 2015 BOARD MEMBERS David Blair, President – District 1 Laurie McCaulley, Vice-President – District 2 Jennie Robinson, Ph.D. – District 3 Topper Birney – District 4 Mike Culbreath – District 5 ADMINISTRATION E. Casey Wardynski, Ph.D. Superintendent Barbara J. Cooper, Ph.D. Deputy Superintendent 200 White Street Huntsville, Alabama 35801 256-428-6800 Discrimination on the basis of sex, race, age, religious belief, disability, national origin, or ethnic group shall be prohibited in all educational programs and activities of the Huntsville City Schools. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Key Affirmations for Certified Staff ....................................................................................................................................... 7 Code of Ethics for Educators..................................................................................................................................................... 8 HCS School / Center Directory................................................................................................................................................. 9 2014 – 2015 HCS Calendar ..................................................................................................................................................... 10 1. General Information ....................................................................................................................................................... 12 1.1. School Hours ........................................................................................................................................................ 12 1.2. School Closings.................................................................................................................................................... 12 1.3. Extended Day ....................................................................................................................................................... 12 1.4. Cafeteria ................................................................................................................................................................. 12 1.5. School Visitors ..................................................................................................................................................... 12 1.6. Assignment of Students ................................................................................................................................... 13 1.7. Student Transfers............................................................................................................................................... 13 1.8. Work Permits ....................................................................................................................................................... 13 1.9. Textbooks/Computers ..................................................................................................................................... 13 1.10. Counseling and Guidance Services.............................................................................................................. 14 1.11. Due Process .......................................................................................................................................................... 14 1.12. Field Trips and Athletic Events .................................................................................................................... 14 1.13. Parent Concerns ................................................................................................................................................. 15 1.14. Identification Cards ........................................................................................................................................... 15 1.15. Youth Services Program .................................................................................................................................. 15 1.16. Student Harassment.......................................................................................................................................... 16 1.17. Reporting Abuse/Neglect ............................................................................................................................... 16 1.18. Student Sexual Harassment ........................................................................................................................... 16 1.19. Student Fees, Fines, and Charges ................................................................................................................ 17 2. Registration Information .............................................................................................................................................. 17 2.1. School Zone Determination ........................................................................................................................... 17 2.2. Proof of Residence ............................................................................................................................................. 17 2.3. Building/Moving ................................................................................................................................................ 17 2.4. Birth Certificate................................................................................................................................................... 18 2.5. Certificate of Immunization ........................................................................................................................... 18 2.6. Age Requirement for Enrollment ................................................................................................................ 18 2.7. Additional Information .................................................................................................................................... 18 3. Attendance.......................................................................................................................................................................... 19 3.1. Student Absences ............................................................................................................................................... 19 3.1.1. Excused Absences ......................................................................................................................................... 19 3.1.2. Unexcused Absences .................................................................................................................................... 19 3.1.3. Absences Due to School-Related Activities......................................................................................... 19 3.1.4. Absences Due to Religious Purposes..................................................................................................... 20 3.2. Student Attendance Standards for Driver’s License ............................................................................ 20 3.3. Early Warning Attendance, Truancy, and Conduct Intervention Program ................................ 21 4. Student Rights and Responsibilities ........................................................................................................................ 22 HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 3 5. 4.1. Expression – Student Publications ............................................................................................................. 22 4.2. Petition ................................................................................................................................................................... 22 4.3. Religion .................................................................................................................................................................. 22 4.4. Patriotism .............................................................................................................................................................. 22 4.5. Assigned/Owned Possessions ...................................................................................................................... 23 4.6. Dress Code Guidelines...................................................................................................................................... 23 4.7. Trespassing........................................................................................................................................................... 24 4.8. Student Records.................................................................................................................................................. 24 4.8.1. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) - Annual Notification of Rights ...... 24 4.8.2. Directory Information ................................................................................................................................. 25 4.9. No Student Fighting .......................................................................................................................................... 26 4.10. Vehicle Registration and Parking ................................................................................................................ 26 4.11. Clubs and Organizations ................................................................................................................................. 27 4.12. Weapons ................................................................................................................................................................ 27 4.13. Student Competitive Extracurricular Activity Substance Abuse Policy ...................................... 28 4.14. Smoking.................................................................................................................................................................. 28 4.15. Alcohol/Drug Use (Students) ........................................................................................................................ 28 4.16. Bomb Threats ...................................................................................................................................................... 29 4.17. Search and Seizure ............................................................................................................................................ 29 4.18. Physical Restraint and Seclusion for All Students ................................................................................ 29 4.19. Unannounced Drug Detection Visits .......................................................................................................... 30 4.20. Student Medication ........................................................................................................................................... 30 4.20.1. Medication Forms .................................................................................................................................... 30 4.20.2. Delivery of Medication ........................................................................................................................... 30 4.20.3. Acceptance of Medication ..................................................................................................................... 30 4.20.4. Storage of Medication ............................................................................................................................. 30 4.20.5. Emergency Medication........................................................................................................................... 31 4.20.6. Expired Medication.................................................................................................................................. 31 4.20.7. End of each School Year ......................................................................................................................... 31 4.20.8. Summer Programs ................................................................................................................................... 31 4.21. Preventative Health Maintenance ............................................................................................................... 31 4.22. Student Exclusion Due to Illness.................................................................................................................. 32 4.23. Electronic Devices/Cell Phones ................................................................................................................... 33 Curriculum.......................................................................................................................................................................... 33 5.1. Promotion ............................................................................................................................................................. 34 5.2. Retention Procedures (Grades K-5) ........................................................................................................... 34 5.2.1. Retention Criteria.......................................................................................................................................... 34 5.2.2. Parent Notification Timeline .................................................................................................................... 35 5.3. State Mandated Assessment Program (2014-2015) ........................................................................... 36 5.4. HCS Mandated Assessment Program (2014-2015) ............................................................................. 37 5.5. High School Exams ............................................................................................................................................ 37 5.6. Participation in Graduation Ceremonies .................................................................................................. 38 5.7. Internet................................................................................................................................................................... 38 5.8. Private Tutoring ................................................................................................................................................. 38 5.9. Make Up Work ..................................................................................................................................................... 38 HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 4 5.10. Credit Recovery/Summer School ................................................................................................................ 39 5.11. Magnet Programs ............................................................................................................................................... 39 5.12. Homebound .......................................................................................................................................................... 40 5.13. Homework ............................................................................................................................................................ 40 5.14. Response to Instruction and Problem Solving Teams ........................................................................ 40 5.15. Normal Progress ................................................................................................................................................. 40 6. Academic Eligibility for Extracurricular Activities ............................................................................................ 41 7. Special Education Services .......................................................................................................................................... 42 7.1. Section 504 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 .................................................................................................... 42 7.2. Gifted/Talented .................................................................................................................................................. 42 8. School Buses/Transportation .................................................................................................................................... 43 8.1. General Eligibility Guidelines for School Bus Transportation ......................................................... 43 8.2. School Bus Rules of Conduct ......................................................................................................................... 44 8.3. Bus Discipline Procedures .............................................................................................................................. 44 8.4. School Bus Transportation “Exception” Request Form ..................................................................... 45 8.4.1. Form Procedures ........................................................................................................................................... 45 APPENDIX A: HCS Code of Student Conduct ................................................................................................................... A1 APPENDIX B: Student Transfers ....................................................................................................................................... A20 APPENDIX C: Admission to Schools................................................................................................................................. A21 APPENDIX D: Internet Safety (Students) ...................................................................................................................... A23 APPENDIX E: Alabama High School Graduation Requirements .......................................................................... A26 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .......................................................................................................................................................... A27 HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 5 INTRODUCTION Welcome to Huntsville City Schools! Education is a partnership between the student, the parent, and the school – a partnership to provide quality education in a positive and supportive environment. For Huntsville City Schools (HCS) to be successful, your cooperation and support are needed. Parents, please take time to review and discuss the items in this handbook with your children enrolled in the school system. If you have questions regarding any item(s) at this time or as the year progresses, please contact the principal of your child’s school. We want to work with you to resolve any question or concern. Our policies and procedures are written to benefit the students. The purpose of this Student-Parent Handbook is to inform students and parents of applicable policies and procedures adopted by the HCS Board of Education. NOTE TO PARENTS After you have reviewed this handbook, please detach, sign, and return the Acknowledgement on the last page of this Handbook. Your signature notifies the school that you have received, read, and discussed the handbook with your child. We look forward to a productive and rewarding year. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 6 KEY AFFIRMATIONS FOR CERTIFIED STAFF I believe every child can learn. I will serve as a professional educator in any school in the Huntsville City School System. As such, I expect to: o Serve within my school’s professional learning community focused upon collaborative learning to advance student intellectual, moral, behavioral, and physical development. o Help create a problem-solving, outcomes-focused culture that embraces continuous process improvement and rejects excuses for low rates of student achievement growth. o Be held accountable for student achievement growth based upon progress monitoring, benchmark assessments, and other student data. As such, I will: o Employ research-based instructional strategies that clearly align curriculum, instruction, assessment, and student progress reporting with higher-order student proficiency standards. Focus instruction upon student attainment of common core standards that align with college and career readiness. Create an environment designed to prepare children to enter educational and work settings characterized by continuous change and the need for life-long learning. Work to raise the achievement of top performing students and accelerate the learning of lower performing students so as to close the proficiency gap now evident in HCS. Serve as a model for students in my communications with others, in my conduct, and in my appearance. I will employ technology and other resources to create a differentiated learning environment that supports the varied learning needs of students. As a professional educator, I understand that cultural diversity fosters and sustains inclusive learning environments that enrich education and foster development of higher level thinking and collaboration skills that will be vital to the success of our students in college and in their careers. I will work collaboratively with administrators, parents, and community members to create learning opportunities matched to my students’ needs. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 7 CODE OF ETHICS FOR EDUCATORS The Alabama Educator Code of Ethics defines the professional behavior of educators and serves as a guide to ethical conduct. Professional educators employed by the HCS Board of Education shall strive to follow the guidelines of the Alabama Educator Code of Ethics as published and amended by the State of Alabama Department of Education from time to time. NOTE: The complete Alabama Educator Code of Ethics can be found in the HCS Policy Manual. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 8 HCS SCHOOL / CENTER DIRECTORY Academy for Academics and Arts Academy for Science & Foreign Language Blossomwood Elementary Butler High Chaffee Elementary Challenger Elementary Challenger Middle Chapman School P-8 Columbia High Dawson Elementary P-6 Farley Elementary Goldsmith-Schiffman Elementary Grissom High Hampton Cove Elementary Hampton Cove Middle Highlands Elementary P-6 Huntsville High Huntsville Middle Johnson High Jones Valley Elementary Lakewood Elementary P-6 Lee High Martin Luther King, Jr Elementary McDonnell Elementary McNair Junior High Monte Sano Elementary Montview Elementary Morris Elementary Mountain Gap P-8 New Century Technology High Providence Elementary Ridgecrest Elementary Rolling Hills P-6 University Place P-6 Weatherly Heights Elementary Westlawn Middle Whitesburg P – 8 Williams Elementary Williams Middle Instructional Television Environmental Education Center Huntsville Center for Technology Merts Administrative Offices HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) 2800 Poplar Avenue 3221 Mastin Lake Road 1321 Woodmont Avenue 3401 Holmes Avenue 7900 Whittier Road 13555 Chaney Thompson Road 13555 Chaney Thompson Road 2006 Reuben Drive 300 Explorer Boulevard 5308 Mastin Lake Road 2900 Green Cove Road 1210 Taylor Road 7901 Bailey Cove Road 261 Old 431 Highway 261 Old 431 Highway 2500 Barney Avenue 2304 Billie Watkins 817 Adams Street 6201 Pueblo Drive 4908 Garth Road 3501 Kenwood Drive 2500 Meridian Street 3112 Meridian Street 4010 Binderton Place 3221 Mastin Lake Road 1107 Monte Sano Boulevard 2600 Garvin Road 4801 Bob Wallace Avenue 821 Mountain Gap Road 2500 Meridian Street 10 Chalk Stone Street 3505 Cerro Vista Drive 2901 Hilltop Terrace 4503 University Drive 1307 Canstatt Drive 4217 Ninth Avenue 107 Sanders Road 155 Barren Fork Road 155-A Barren Fork Road 706 Read Drive 1107 Monte Sano Boulevard 2800 Drake Avenue 200 White Street 428-7600 428-7000 428-7020 428-7950 428-7040 428-7060 428-7620 428-7640 428-7576 428-7500 428-7160 428-7150 428-8000 428-7180 428-8380 428-7200 428-8050 428-7700 428-8100 428-7220 428-7240 428-8150 428-7100 428-7280 428-7660 428-7300 428-7320 428-7340 428-7720 428-7800 428-7125 428-7380 428-7400 428-7440 428-7460 428-7760 428-7780 428-7540 428-7330 428-7860 428-7307 428-7810 428-6800 Page 9 2014 – 2015 HCS CALENDAR July 29 (Tuesday) Teacher Work Day July 30-31, August 1 (Wednesday-Friday) Professional Development August 4 (Monday) Institute Day August 5 (Tuesday) First Student Attendance Day September 1 (Monday) Labor Day Holiday September 26 (Friday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) October 3 (Friday) End of 1st 9 Weeks Fall Break: October 6-10 (Monday-Friday) October 31 (Friday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) November 1 (Monday) Veteran's Day Holiday November 24-28 (Monday-Friday) Thanksgiving Holiday December 19 (Friday) End of 1st Semester Winter Break: December 22 – January 2 January 5 (Monday) Teacher Work Day January 6 (Tuesday) Students Return January 19 (Monday) Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday February 6 (Friday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) March 6 (Friday) End of 3rd 9 Weeks March 13 (Friday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) Spring Break: March 23 – March 27 May 21-22 (Thursday- Friday) Graduation Day May 22 (Friday) End of 2nd Semester May 22 (Friday) Last day for students May 25 (Monday) Memorial Day Holiday May 26 (Tuesday) Teacher Work day 87 Days 1st Semester 93 Days 2nd Semester 180 - Student Days 187 - Teacher Days HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 10 1st 2014 – 2015 REPORT CARD SCHEDULE 2nd Nine Weeks Nine Weeks Begin: Progress reports go home: End of 1st nine weeks: Report cards go home: 3rd Nine Weeks Begin: Progress reports go home: End of 3rd nine weeks: Report cards go home: Aug. 5, 2014 Sept. 8, 2014 Oct. 3, 2014 Oct. 13, 2014 Jan. 6, 2015 Feb. 9, 2015 March 6, 2015 March 16, 2015 Begin: Progress reports go home: End of 2nd nine weeks: Report cards go home: 4th Nine Weeks Begin: Progress reports go home: End of 4th nine weeks: Report cards go home: Oct. 6, 2014 Nov. 10, 2014 Dec. 19, 2014 Jan. 12, 2015 March 9, 2015 April 13, 2015 May 22, 2015 May 22, 2015 CENTRAL OFFICE CLOSING DATES July 3-4, 2014 Independence Day Sept. 1, 2014 Labor Day Nov. 11, 2014 Veterans’ Day Nov. 26-28, 2014 Thanksgiving Holidays Dec. 24-26 & 30-31, 2014 Winter Holidays Jan. 1-2, 2015 New Year’s Holiday Jan. 19, 2015 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March 26-27, 2015 Spring Holidays May 25, 2015 Memorial Day SCHOOL OFFICE Hours of Operation: 7:45 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Annie C. Merts Center; 200 White Street; Huntsville, Alabama 35801 428-6800 Hours of Operation: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ADMINISTRATIVE ANNEX 714 Bob Wallace Avenue; Huntsville, Alabama 35801 HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 11 1. GENERAL INFORMATION 1.1. School Hours The school building will not be open before 7:30 a.m. Please do not send your child to school before this time as no certified personnel are on duty. Class begins at 8:00 a.m. Elementary students must leave the premises at 2:30 p.m. Students participating in the Afterschool Lab Program must report directly to assigned rooms at 2:30 p.m. Middle school and P-6 school students must leave the premises at 3:00 p.m. Students of P-8 schools should check with your school regarding the required time of departure. High school students are required to leave campus at 3:15 p.m. Magnet school hours vary. Students enrolled should inquire and adhere to the designated times. 1.2. School Closings The Superintendent will close schools when weather or other conditions are too hazardous for safe operation. Parents will be notified of emergencies via the Parent Notification System. News media will be notified by 5:30 a.m. unless extreme weather conditions occur during the school day. When hazardous weather conditions are forecast, parents are responsible for deciding if their student(s) should be allowed to drive to school of if they should make alternative arrangements for their student’s transportation. 1.3. Extended Day Parents may choose to pay for students in Pre-K through 8th grade to enroll in the HCS Afterschool Lab Program, powered by Appleton, at various locations. The program operates Monday – Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Full-time services are offered during Spring Break and Summer Break. For application or more information about available locations and current tuition rates, please refer to www.huntsvilleafterschool.com. 1.4. Cafeteria Students may purchase hot meals for both breakfast and lunch. 1.5. School Visitors For the protection of the students and the school employees, all schools have a closed campus policy. Parents and all persons visiting a school for any purpose are required to go to the School Office immediately upon entering the building to report their presence and business. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 12 1.6. Assignment of Students Students must attend the school in the zone in which the legal residence of the parent(s) or person(s) who has legal custody of the pupil is located, unless otherwise assigned by the Superintendent. A SCHOOL SYSTEM REPRESENTATIVE MAY VISIT THE ADDRESS GIVEN BY ANY PARENT/GUARDIAN TO VERIFY RESIDENCY. IF IT IS DETERMINED THAT A STUDENT IS OUT– OF–ZONE THROUGH FALSIFIED INFORMATION, THE STUDENT WILL BE ASKED TO RELOCATE TO THE CORRECT SCHOOL IMMEDIATELY. Students whose parents move into another school zone within the Huntsville City School System during the school year may elect to complete the year in the school they have been attending or adjust to the school serving their new residential area. Students whose parents move into another school zone outside the Huntsville City School System prior to the last nine week grading period must immediately relocate to the school serving their new residential area. If the move takes place during the last nine week grading period, the parent may choose for the student to remain in their current school until the end of that nine week grading period. 1.7. Student Transfers The HCS Board of Education assumes primary responsibility for developing and implementing a system of student transfers. The definitions and conditions will apply in the context of the policy and only application for the reasons contained in the policy will be accepted provided space is available at the requested school. Please refer to Appendix B for further information. 1.8. Work Permits Work permits are not required; however, employers must obtained a certificate to employ minors under the age of 16/17. Minors of the age of 14 or 15 must obtain an Eligibility to Work form, which will be completed by a school official. The form may be obtained at each high school or on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org under the Student Support Services department. 1.9. Textbooks/Computers Textbooks/computers are furnished to students and will remain the property of HCS. Textbooks/computers must be returned to the teacher at the end of the school year upon promotion or transfer. The parent or guardian shall be held liable for any loss or damage. The district may require restitution of property and damages where appropriate. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 13 1.10. Counseling and Guidance Services The counseling and guidance program is a comprehensive, developmental K-12 plan. The program components are personal/social development (learning to live), academic development (learning to learn), and career development (learning to earn a living). Counseling and guidance are essential services in the instructional program of all the schools. The services provided serve to ensure that students have the necessary skills to make wise decisions in the three program components. All elementary, middle, and high schools offer counseling and guidance services. 1.11. Due Process Due process is accorded an individual when the body undertaking the proceeding against the individual adequately informs the accused of the charges, gives the accused the opportunity to challenge the testimony given, and permits the presentation of information on his/her own behalf. The concept of due process stipulates that all law will be equally enforced so that all people subject to the law will be given fair play. 1.12. Field Trips and Athletic Events According to HCS Board Policy 6.7, a permission form must be signed by the parent or guardian and returned to school before a student is allowed to leave the school on a field trip. The Board is not responsible for reimbursements for money paid in advance for trips that are cancelled or trips in which the student does not attend. Refunds are not guaranteed. At the beginning of each year, an Out-of-County/Overnight Student Trip Medical Release form should be completed through InfoSnap. If not completed through InfoSnap a paper form can be completed, signed, and notarized for each student. It is the responsibility of the parent to update the form when necessary. If medications must be given to the student during the field trip, a School Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization form (available on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org) must be completed for each medication. The completed School Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization form and the medication must be delivered to the school nurse or medication assistant at least two days prior to the trip departure date. No medication or paperwork will be accepted the day of the trip. The Field Trip and Medical Authorization forms are available via the InfoSnap registration process. Students who require special health procedures daily and/or emergency management of their specific health condition may not be excluded from participation in the field trip. The student’s parent/guardian may accompany the student to provide medication or care needed. If the parent does not attend, Health Services will determine the appropriate staff based on the students’ needs, Health Services staff availability, and legal necessity. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 14 1.13. Parent Concerns Parent concerns and problems which may arise from time to time should be resolved at the lowest possible level. In order to resolve concerns in the most appropriate fashion in the shortest period of time possible, each concern should start at the most immediate level of administration/supervision. Parents are encouraged to consult with the classroom teacher and/or guidance counselor to resolve school-related concerns about their children. A meeting with the school administrator may be arranged if the matter is not resolved at the teacher/counselor level. Concerns should be submitted in writing and should be specific in terms of action desired. If the matter is not resolved after utilizing the above steps, contact the appropriate department listed below regarding the concern: Elementary Programs (P- 5/6 and P- 8) 428-6975 Secondary Programs (6th-12th) 428-6970 Student Support Services 428-6890 Career Tech 428-7810 Transportation 428-8350 Athletics 428-6866 Special Education 428-6872 If the parents feels no satisfactory solution has been reached, he/she may contact the Deputy Superintendent at 428-6826. If a solution is not achieved at the Deputy Superintendent’s level, the parent may contact the Office of the Superintendent at 428-6810. 1.14. Identification Cards Identification (ID) cards may be issued to all ninth and eleventh grade students. ID cards may be required for identification at all school activities. ID cards will be surrendered at the time of withdrawal. Lending the ID card or using another’s ID card or failing to present it to an authorized school official on request is a violation of school regulations. Upon request by a school official, a student must make his/her identity known. The student must also accompany the school official to the school office if requested. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. 1.15. Youth Services Program The Youth Services Program has been established as a joint venture between the City of Huntsville and the HCS Board of Education to enhance community relations and to develop relationships that HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 15 will create a positive interaction between students, parents, teachers, and the community. As a part of this program, School Resource Officers (SROs) are assigned to each of the HCS high schools. Questions related to this program should be addressed to the Office of the Superintendent at 4286810. 1.16. Student Harassment It is the policy of HCS to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment. No student shall engage in or be subjected to harassment, violence, threats of violence, or intimidation by another student through conduct or communication that is based on race, sex, religion, national origin, or disability. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary sanctions as outlined in the HCS Code of Student Conduct. Please refer to Appendix A for further information. 1.17. Reporting Abuse/Neglect Any school employee having knowledge of known or suspected child abuse/neglect shall immediately report the facts as known, either in person or by phone, to the State of Alabama Department of Human Resources (427-6200) or the Huntsville Police Department (722-7211). The employee shall also notify the Office of the Superintendent (Student Support Services Division, 4286890). 1.18. Student Sexual Harassment According to HCS Board Policy 6.12, HCS maintains a learning and working environment free of sexual harassment. It shall be a violation of school policy for any HCS staff member or any HCS student to harass through conduct or communications of a sexual nature. Such harassment is prohibited and will not be tolerated in school, during school hours, before or after school, while on school property, at school sponsored events, or while traveling on vehicles funded by the Department of Education and on other than school property when such behavior can be demonstrated to negatively affect the educational process or to endanger the health, safety, morality, or welfare of the school community. If you feel that you have been the victim of such behavior, please notify your teacher, counselor, or another staff member. If you feel uncomfortable making a report to a school staff member, you may contact the Director of Compliance by emailing your complaint to [email protected]. You may also make a written report. A complaint form will be made available in the principal’s office as well as on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org. Your complaint will be investigated and the school will take appropriate action to eliminate the discrimination and/or harassment. Retaliation against anyone for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation of a complaint is prohibited. Any individual who engages in HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 16 retaliatory behavior (e.g., threats, intimidation) will be subject to immediate disciplinary action, according to HCS Board Policy 6.12. 1.19. Student Fees, Fines, and Charges According to HCS Board Policy 6.4, HCS will establish reasonable fees for courses not required for graduation. All funds collected in fees will be spent on the course that the fee was levied. Reasonable fees will be levied for pupils attending district schools that live outside of the district boundaries. Fees for parking privileges will be established each school year and will be communicated during the school registration process. All fees, fines and charges will be guided by the district Chief Financial Officer and may be amended from time to time as conditions dictate. 2. REGISTRATION INFORMATION 2.1. School Zone Determination To determine the school zone for each child in the family, contact the school nearest your residence or visit the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org (refer to the Student Support Services Department, then School Information/Zones). For further information, contact the Office of Student Support Services at 428-6890. Graduating seniors residing within the city limits may attend the high school where they completed the eleventh grade without regard to zone restrictions. 2.2. Proof of Residence The parent shall provide Proof of Residence (a signed lease, deed, mortgage, or letter from the property manager) AND a utility or land line phone bill addressed to the parent or guardian at the address being established as residence. Contact the appropriate school regarding further information on proof of residence. 2.3. Building/Moving Temporary enrollment due to moving to a new zone will be considered provided the request is submitted prior to the beginning of the semester and substantiated by copies of sales contract, lease agreement, or other such valid document. Failure to confirm residence within 60 days results in the student being subject to reassignment to the school serving the residence of the parent. This confirmation must be completed via signed documentation at the Office of Student Support Services located at 200 White Street. For new residents of Huntsville, temporary enrollment applications will be accepted during the semester. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 17 2.4. Birth Certificate The parent is requested to provide an original or a certified copy of the student’s birth certificate. If a student has no such certificate, school personnel will contact the Office of Student Support Services to provide information to parents/guardians concerning submission of documentation. 2.5. Certificate of Immunization The parent shall provide an up-to-date Certificate of Immunization (“Blue Card”) detailing proof of immunization or a Certificate of Exemption issued by the Alabama Department of Health. Immunization certificates are available from the Madison County Health Department at 301 Max Luther Drive in Huntsville (539-3711) and from local physicians or military clinics. Required Vaccines for School/Daycare Attendance Name Number of Doses Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis 5 doses (4 if the 4th dose was received after the 4th birthday) TDaP (Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis) 1 dose at (booster) prior to entering 6th grade Polio 4 doses (3 if the 3rd dose was received after the 4th birthday) Measles/Mumps/Rubella 2 doses of Measles, 1 dose of Mumps, and 1 dose of Rubella Varicella 1 dose (kindergarten – 10th grade) Pneumococcal Vaccine 4 doses up to age 14 months (preschool (ages 3 and 4)) Hib 4 doses up to age 5 2.6. Age Requirement for Enrollment To enter kindergarten, students must be five (5) years old on or before September 1 (2)*. In order to enter first grade, students must be six (6) years old on or before September 1 (2)*. Students who are six years old after September 2 AND have successfully completed public kindergarten in another state AND have been certified to attend first grade in that state may be accepted in first grade. These students, however, will not automatically be accepted in first grade in this school system. Grade placement will be made on the basis of test scores, performance, and/or demonstrated ability. Please refer to Appendix C for further information. *An opinion of the Attorney General states in effect that under the common law, one’s age is computed by including the day of birth so that a given age is attained the day before the birthday anniversary. 2.7. Additional Information For additional information, contact the Office of Student Support Services at 428-6890 or visit the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 18 3. ATTENDANCE The HCS Board of Education believes good student attendance enhances learning. When a student is not in school, he/she misses valuable instructional time. For this reason, the Board equates attendance with academic achievement and establishes policies and procedures designed to encourage and require students to be in school. 3.1. Student Absences 3.1.1. Excused Absences Parent(s)/guardian(s) must provide a written explanation of the reason(s) for each absence within two (2) school days after each absence (or consecutive absences). If the written explanation is not provided within the two (2) day period, the absences will be coded unexcused. A student must be in attendance one-half day to be counted present. Absences will be excused for the following reason: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Personal illness without doctor’s excuse, with parent/guardian excuse Personal illness with a doctor’s statement Death in the immediate family Weather preventing attendance (would endanger student’s health) Legal requirements, such as subpoena or other required court appearance Legal quarantine Senior College Day (2 days) A student may have a total of 10 excused absences for illness without a doctor’s statement. After an accumulation of 10 excused absences for illness without a doctor’s statement, the student will receive unexcused absences for illness unless absences are documented with a doctor’s statement. Any exception to this policy will require a doctor’s documentation of a chronic illness which causes absences which may not comply with the attendance policy. A student will continue to receive excused absences for reasons 2 through 7 above. 3.1.2. Unexcused Absences Any absence(s) not classified as excused absence(s) will be coded unexcused. Days absent due to suspension will be coded “S – Suspended”. All suspended students will be allowed to make up homework, tests, or activities, etc. missed due to suspension. 3.1.3. Absences Due to School-Related Activities Students who participate in HCS school-sponsored, school-related, or authorized activities and are thereby absent from school or class will not be counted absent from school. Students are expected to make up work missed while attending the activities, and should be given the same opportunities as those afforded students with excused absences. Students who attend but do HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 19 not participate in school sponsored or school authorized activities will be counted ‘absent’ and the absence will be considered unexcused unless otherwise excused by the principal. 3.1.4. Absences Due to Religious Purposes Absences for religious purposes are excused only if the parent/guardian submits a written request. Such requests must clearly specify the denomination and the particular religious observance for which the excused absence is requested. Requests for excused religious absences exceeding three days per student, per year, must be approved in writing by the principal or the assistant principal. 3.2. Student Attendance Standards for Driver’s License According to HCS Board Policy 6.23, HCS shall comply with Alabama law (Section 16-28-40) governing school attendance standards and the operation of motor vehicles. School attendance standards are met by enrollment in a school or General Educational Development (GED) program or job training program approved by the State Department of Education. The Department of Safety will be notified when a student has more than 10 consecutive or 15 cumulative days of unexcused absence during a single semester. Unless exempted from the requirement by HCS Board Policy, a person under the age of 19 years may not under state law obtain a driver’s license or a learner’s permit without being enrolled in school or meeting alternative criteria established by law. Additionally, a driver’s license may be suspended or revoked if a student withdraws or fails to attend school. Students may be exempted or excused from otherwise applicable statutory requirements if their withdrawal or non-attendance is caused by circumstances beyond the control of the student. Circumstances beyond the control of the student may be found with respect to: Students who are mentally or physically unable to attend school Students who are regularly and legally employed in compliance with the provisions of the Child Labor Law Students who, because of the lack of public transportation, are compelled to walk more than two miles to attend a public school Students who are denied a driver’s license by virtue of their non-enrollment may appeal a decision affecting the student’s eligibility for a driver’s license to the Superintendent. The appeal should be in writing and filed with the school principal within 15 days of the decision from which the appeal is taken, and should set forth the reasons on which the appeal is based. An appeal should be promptly forwarded to the Superintendent for review and final decision. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 20 3.3. Early Warning Attendance, Truancy, and Conduct Intervention Program The Early Warning Program is a joint effort between the HCS Board of Education and the District Attorney’s Office. It is designed to reduce truancy, the number of student dropouts, and to provide an intervention program for student behavior at school. The format of the program consists of group sessions held weekly throughout the year in the courtroom of the Madison County Courthouse. The purpose of the Early Warning sessions is to share information concerning compulsory school attendance law legal requirements and the school board policies pertaining to truancy, attendance, and behavior, thus constituting an Early Warning. Students and parents required to attend Early Warning sessions are students who have been referred for one of the following reasons or combination of reasons: Five (5) or more unexcused absences 10 or more questionable excused absences which were not satisfactorily explained 10 or more unexcused tardies Up to three (3) out-of-school suspensions All students (K-12) are subject to the regulations of the Early Warning Program and the provisions of the Compulsory School Attendance Law as follows: Alabama Code Section 16-28-3 requires “every child between the ages of six and 17 years shall be required to attend a public school, private school, church school or be instructed by a competent private tutor for the entire length of the school term in every scholastic year---.” Alabama Code Section 16-28-12 requires that any parent/guardian who enrolls a student in school be responsible for the students’ regular attendance and proper conduct. It also provides that a parent may be fined $100.00 and receive up to ninety days in jail. Alabama Code Section 12-15-15 provides that a parent may be fined $500.00 and receive up to one year of hard labor if convicted of parental neglect; contributing to the delinquency of a minor; or if the child is found to be a child IN NEED OF SUPERVISION. They may also be required to pay restitution to the Board of Education. An important part of the Early Warning Program is to offer help or assistance to parents and students with problems which may interfere with the legal attendance requirements. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 21 4. STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 4.1. Expression – Student Publications According to HCS Board Policy 6.8, students should be provided the opportunity for free expression of ideas. The primary responsibilities in a student’s life have to do with the process of inquiry and learning, of acquiring and imparting knowledge, and of exchanging ideas. The right of students to freely express themselves in the absence of a finding of substantial disruption has been firmly established by the courts. Students have the right to express their opinions verbally and symbolically as long as such expression does not infringe upon the rights of others. The use and display of oppressive signs, flags, and symbols by individual students are prohibited. Students are entitled to express in writing their personal opinions. Students who edit, publish, or distribute handwritten or printed material, including non-school sponsored newspapers, among their fellow students within the school, must assume responsibility for the content of such publications. Libelous statements and obscenity are prohibited in all publications. The distribution of written material will be limited to designated areas and time. School officials have the authority to ensure that student expression is responsible and is not disruptive. The principal and student and student publication sponsor are responsible the content of all student publications. The principal has the final authority on all published content. 4.2. Petition Students have the right to present petitions; however, the collecting of signatures on petitions shall neither disrupt classroom procedures nor interfere with the educational process. Petitions must be free from obscenities, libelous statements, and personal attacks. 4.3. Religion Students have the right to their own religious beliefs. The school must refrain from extending the mantle of public sanction or support to any particular religion. 4.4. Patriotism HCS encourages patriotism. Students shall have the right to recite the pledge, sing the national anthem, salute a flag, or take part in patriotic ceremonies. If students object to such ceremonies, they shall remain quiet. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 22 4.5. Assigned/Owned Possessions Students and parents are responsible for all items assigned to them at the school level as well as any personal items which students have in their possession at school. 4.6. Dress Code Guidelines State educational authorities and recent court decisions have determined that style of dress and hair should not disrupt classes, interfere with learning, prevent instruction, and should comply with state health and safety standards. HCS believes that requiring neatness, cleanliness, and appropriateness in clothing encourages an atmosphere conducive to learning, work, and discipline. Students are required to dress in a way that is appropriate for school. Students will not wear any article of clothing or display any insignia or sign that shows disrespect for any person, creed, race, color, sex, or nationality. Parents/guardians are expected to monitor students’ dress. The following is a list of dress guidelines that apply but are not limited to: Clothing that displays antisocial, immoral or illegal behavior is not allowed. Any article of clothing, jewelry, or haircut depicting gangs, satanic, occult, violence, sex, drugs, alcohol, mutilation or language that could be considered obscene or vulgar will not be allowed. Jewelry that could be used as a weapon is not allowed. All shorts/skorts, skirts and dresses must approach knee length. Slits in skirts and dresses must not be extreme or revealing.* If so designed, shirts and blouses must be tucked in pants and/or skirts. Oversized tops may not be worn below the waist.* Except for religious purposes, hats and head coverings may not be worn in school buildings. Sunglasses, gloves, bandanas, and house slippers may not be worn in school buildings. Bib overalls and/or suspenders must be snapped, hooked and/or buttoned and kept on shoulders. Belts must be buckled. Pants may not be oversized, too tight, or allowed to sag. Undergarments must not be exposed. Pant legs must be uniform length and may not drag on the floor. Revealing tops, spandex, or clinging garments are not permitted. Any student in violation of the dress code will be required to change. Time missed from classes will be unexcused (students must make up work missed). Disregard for the dress code will lead to disciplinary action, in accordance with the HCS Official Student/Parent Handbook. Individual schools may opt to require a uniform. Parents may inquire at the school site for more information. The final decision regarding dress will rest with the building principal or his/her designee. *Elementary principals are urged to use discretion according to student age and size. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 23 4.7. Trespassing A suspended or expelled student will not be eligible to be present on school property, to attend oncampus or off-campus activities, to participate in any school sponsored activities, or to enroll in any HCS school until the suspension or expulsion is properly cleared. Students considered to be trespassing are subject to disciplinary action and/or arrest. 4.8. Student Records 4.8.1. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) - Annual Notification of Rights The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Records or information maintained by a school official exclusively for personal reference or use and which are not available to any other person, except his or her substitute, are not student education records available for inspection, review, or challenge by the parent or eligible student. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official may be a volunteer or person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, substitute, or support staff member (including health or medical staff, school bus drivers, clinic/health services volunteers, and certain law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 24 auditor, medical consultant, evaluator, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. The school will additionally disclose or forward education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Education records may also be disclosed in connection with an emergency if the knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or other persons. 4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue SW Washington, DC 20202 4605 4.8.2. Directory Information HCS may disclose appropriately designated "directory information" without written consent, unless you have advised HCS to the contrary. One purpose of directory information is to allow HCS to include this type of information from a student’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include but are not limited to: • • • • • A playbill, showing your student's role in a drama production The annual yearbook Honor roll or other recognition lists Graduation programs Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, federal laws require local educational agencies receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories: names, addresses and telephone listings unless a parent or an eligible student have advised the LEA that they do not want the information disclosed without prior written consent. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 25 If you do not want HCS to disclose directory information without your prior written consent, you must notify HCS in writing through your school office. HCS has designated the following information as directory information: • • • • • • • • • • • Student’s/parents’ name Telephone listing/address Dates of attendance Participation in officially recognized activities and sports Email address Photograph Date of birth Telephone listing/address Weight and height of members of athletic teams Awards/honors Grade level 4.9. No Student Fighting This policy is designed to prevent and discourage students from getting into a physical altercation. Fighting is unacceptable for any reason and will not be tolerated. A fight is defined as a physical altercation occurring between two (2) or more students. The physical nature of a fight could include, but is not limited to, hitting, punching, poking, grabbing, pulling, tripping, kicking, and pinching, Any student who engages in such action as defined above will be disciplined according to school system procedures and state and local laws. It will be left up to the administrator’s discretion as to whether an individual’s participation in a fight will be considered self-defense. If the administrator deems the actions as self-defense, then a lesser or no punishment may be issued to that participant. 4.10. Vehicle Registration and Parking According to HCS Board Policy 6.24, parking regulations vary in different schools depending on the available space; however, at all schools, students are required to comply with the safety regulations of the school in order to use the parking facilities. The protection of all students is a major concern where vehicular movement occurs on or near a school campus. Schools issuing parking permits require that the student present a valid driver’s license and liability insurance to secure a vehicle parking permit. All vehicles must be identified by a student permit sticker. Vehicles on campus are subject to search as covered under search and seizure. Vehicles without permits or improperly parked may be towed away at owner/driver’s expense. Student parking must be in areas assigned on the school grounds. Students may park only in school assigned areas. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 26 Students may not remain or linger in or around cars or vehicles on school property. Students may not return to parking areas during school hours without the permission of the school principal or other designated officials. In order to promote the safety and welfare of students and others who work on or visit school campuses, to encourage the development of safe and responsible driving practices, and to serve the general purposes of maintaining a drug and alcohol free school environment, students will be granted the privilege of driving and parking on school property only if they are free of the effects of alcohol or other illegal or controlled substances. Accordingly, any student who desires to drive a vehicle on school property or park on school property may be required to submit to periodically or randomly administered sobriety or drug tests as a condition to issuance of a permit authorizing the operation or parking of a motor vehicle on school grounds. Principals may impose reasonable additional conditions or requirements for the privilege of driving or parking a vehicle on school property including, for example, conditions relating to maintenance of academic and attendance standards and the payment of fees. Principals may also establish priorities for issuance and assignment of parking permits. The Board reserves the right to require that sobriety or drug tests or screenings be passed as a condition to maintaining parking or vehicle permits, or privileges relating to use of a motor vehicle. Such testing or screening may also be performed whenever a school official observes or is made aware of circumstances that provide reasonable suspicion or belief that the student has used alcohol, illegal drugs, or other substances in violation of the Board’s substance abuse policies. All such testing or screening will be performed in accordance with local, state and federal laws, and Security Department procedures. 4.11. Clubs and Organizations A club or organization must be approved by the principal in order to function in the schools. Each club or organization must have a faculty sponsor approved by the principal. On file in the principal’s office should be the name of the club or organization, the faculty sponsor, the stated purpose of the group, and the criteria for membership. Criteria for membership in any club or organization which functions in HCS must be consistent with federal and state legal requirements for programs and operation in public schools and the HCS Board Policy. No student will be denied the opportunity to become a member of a club or organization solely on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, religion, or age. Clubs and organizations which operate primarily for social purposes are not allowed to function or operate in or to promote activities in the name of HCS. 4.12. Weapons No student may have known possession of a weapon or anything designed, made, adapted or used for the purpose of inflicting death or serious physical injury. Such weapons include, but are not HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 27 limited to: BB gun, pellet gun, air rifle, starter gun, switchblade knife, box cutter, sword, dagger, stiletto, any club, baton, blackjack, or metal knuckles. No student may possess, discharge, and/or use any firearm which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of any such weapon; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or any similar destructive device. No student may have any instrument which may resemble or give the appearance of being a knife, gun, or any lethal or dangerous weapon. The intent of this policy includes the possession of such knives, guns, or any lethal or dangerous weapons or instruments located in automobiles or any other place on school premises and at any school sponsored and/or related trips or activities away from school premises. 4.13. Student Competitive Extracurricular Activity Substance Abuse Policy According to HCS Board Policy 6.25, in order to promote the safety and welfare of students who participate in competitive extracurricular activities, to ensure that such participation is neither impaired nor any risk of injury exacerbated, to provide incentives to students to maintain safe and healthful practices, and to promote a school environment that is free of alcohol and illegal drugs or controlled substances, the Board reserves the right to require any student who participates in extracurricular competitive programs or activities to submit to sobriety tests or screening for illegal drugs or controlled substances prior to, during, or following a competitive event, practice, competition, or at any other time while the student is under the supervision of the school system. Such testing or screening may also be performed whenever a school official observes or is made aware of circumstances that provide reasonable suspicion or belief that the student has used alcohol, illegal drugs, or other substances in violation of the Board’s substance abuse policies. All such testing or screening will be performed in accordance with local, state and federal laws and Security Department procedures. 4.14. Smoking Use and/or possession of tobacco products/electronic cigarettes is prohibited on all HCS property. 4.15. Alcohol/Drug Use (Students) Any student on school premises, in a school-owned vehicle, or during any school-sponsored trip or activity who possesses, uses, or dispenses drugs (e.g., alcohol, marijuana, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, or opiates) or controlled substances shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 28 4.16. Bomb Threats Any student found to have made a bomb threat or to have falsely reported such a threat related to any school system facility, operation, or activity is subject to immediate expulsion procedures. Any student who stands by and aids, abets, or assists another person to make a bomb threat or to falsely report such a threat related to any school system facility, operation, or activity is subject to immediate expulsion procedures. Any student, who counsels, advises, persuades, encourages, or dares another person to make a bomb threat or to falsely report such a threat related to any school system facility, operation, or activity is subject to immediate expulsion procedures. 4.17. Search and Seizure Lockers, although provided to students for the student’s convenience, are school property. Searches and general housekeeping inspection (with or without notice) of school property, including lockers, may be conducted by authorized school personnel. Any prohibited material discovered can be used against the student in school disciplinary proceedings. Principals, including acting or assistant principals, security personnel, and/or principal designee may search or authorize a search of the property of any student, including vehicles, in their respective schools, but only based upon facts supporting reasonable suspicion to believe the student is concealing prohibited material. When a specific search is conducted, except pursuant to life, health, and property, the student shall be invited to be present during the search which shall be witnessed by one other school official. Items, which may be seized during a search and retained by school officials, are items in violation of school system policy, illegal items, and possessions reasonably determined to be a threat to a person’s health and safety or security. Items, which are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process, may be temporarily removed from the student’s possession. All students may be required at an unannounced time to walk through a metal detector. Possession of any weapon, including knives, box cutters, tear gas guns, and chemical weapons constitute grounds for expulsion as a Class III offense. 4.18. Physical Restraint and Seclusion for All Students The HCS Board maintains a policy on the appropriate use of physical restraint for all students in those situations in which a student is an immediate danger to himself/herself or others and the student is not responsive to less intensive behavioral interventions according to HCS Board Policy 6.21. Schools and programs that use physical restraints under the Board’s policy must ensure that staff and faculty are trained in the appropriate use of physical restraint. Written parental HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 29 notification will be provided when physical restraint is used to restrain a student within a reasonable time not to exceed one school day from the use of restraint. The use of Seclusion is prohibited by this policy. Please refer to the Overview of Procedures for Physical Restraint and Seclusion for All Students located under the Student Support Services Department on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org. 4.19. Unannounced Drug Detection Visits It is the policy of the HCS Board of Education that law enforcement agencies are permitted to make periodic unannounced visits to any facility/building in the system for the purpose of detecting the presence of illegal drugs. Items found to be in violation of school system policy may constitute grounds for expulsion. 4.20. Student Medication 4.20.1. Medication Forms Prescribed and/or over-the-counter (OTC) medication is administered only upon receipt of a correct, current, completed School Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form (PPA). This form is available in the school office or on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org under Health Services - Medical Forms. Please ensure that the PPA matches the pharmacy label. 4.20.2. Delivery of Medication All prescription medication must be in a current, pharmacy-labeled prescription container. All OTC medications must be in an unopened (sealed), manufacturer-labeled container and identified with the student’s name written in permanent ink. The parent/guardian or parentdesignated responsible adult (not the student) should deliver to school. 4.20.3. Acceptance of Medication Both the parent/guardian or authorized adult and the medication assistant or licensed nurse will sign the back of the Medication Administration Daily Record (MAR) to verify amount received or retrieved. Students must not deliver or carry any type of medication to and from school except those authorized for self-administration/self-carry. 4.20.4. Storage of Medication All medications must be stored in the school office or nurse’s office according to ABN guidelines. Exceptions to this rule are medications prescribed to prevent or treat medical emergencies. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 30 4.20.5. Emergency Medication A student may carry his/her emergency medication on his/her person for self-administration with proper authorization on the School Medication Prescriber/Parent Authorization Form (PPA) and after demonstration of proper administration to the nurse. 4.20.6. Expired Medication The parent/guardian or authorized adult will be notified when medications expire. Expired medication must be picked up within two (2) weeks of notification. If not picked up, medication will be destroyed in accordance with federal and state guidelines. 4.20.7. End of each School Year The parent/guardian or authorized adult must pick up all medications on or before the last day of classes or the medications will be destroyed. Medications cannot be kept at the school between the end of the regular school year and the start of summer school. 4.20.8. Summer Programs The parent/guardian or authorized adult must bring in medication with completed medication forms on the first day of any of the summer programs and pick up the medication on or before the last day. Medications cannot be kept at the school when the student is not attending. STUDENTS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF MEDICATION (PRESCRIBED OR OTC) OR WHO GIVE AWAY, SELL, OR ATTEMPT TO GIVE AWAY OR SELL MEDICATION MAY BE SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION, PROBATION, OR EXPULSION. 4.21. Preventative Health Maintenance Every student enrolled must have a current “Blue Card” (Alabama Certificate of Immunization) or authorized exemption on file at his or her school according to Alabama Code Section 16-30-4. Non-compliance may result in a delayed start date for the student. Checking for head lice is not a routine nursing procedure. Students with live lice will be sent home and should be treated before returning to school the next day and again 7-10 days after initial treatment. It is recommended each family periodically check their child’s head for nits and live lice. For more information, please visit the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org under Health Services department. If your child is sick, please keep them home. We are committed to sending sick children home to decrease exposure to the rest of our students and keeping students not exhibiting contagious signs or symptoms in school learning. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 31 Meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) is recommended for all children 11-12 years of age. Please refer to the following information (from http://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/index.html) regarding meningitis. “Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The inflammation is usually caused by an infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It may develop in response to a number of causes, usually bacteria or viruses, but meningitis can also be caused by physical injury, cancer or certain drugs. The severity of illness and the treatment for meningitis differ depending on the cause. Thus, it is important to know the specific cause of meningitis. Transmission Bacterial Meningitis: Bacterial meningitis is contagious. The bacteria are spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions (i.e., kissing). Transmission Viral Meningitis: Enteroviruses, the most common cause of viral meningitis, are most often spread from person to person through fecal contamination (which can occur when changing a diaper or using the toilet and not properly washing hands afterwards), but enteroviruses can also be spread via eye, nose, and mouth secretions (such as saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum), or blister fluid.” Influenza “flu” vaccine is now recommended for all age groups. For more information, please refer to www.adph.org/immunization. Effective hand washing is the most powerful weapon available to fight the transmission of most infections. Adequate nutrition, rest, and exercise are important in the fight against illness. Wounds that may spread infection must be covered at all times while at school. 4.22. Student Exclusion Due to Illness Should a child develop any contagious signs or symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever (100 or higher), severe headache, severe stomach ache and cramps, severe sore throat, or cold and flu-like symptoms while at school, school personnel will contact the parent/guardian or authorized adult and request require that the child be taken home. If symptoms persist longer than two (2) days, consider taking your child to a physician. In the absence of a medical diagnosis or a physician-signed clearance to return to school, students who are ill should be excluded for 24 hours after the last episode or until illness subsides according to the following guidelines: HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 32 Symptom Fever (100 degrees or higher) Diarrhea Skin rash with fever Skin rash without fever Vomiting Recommended Exclusion Period Until 24 hours after the last episode of fever without anti-fever medication Until 24 hours after the last episode of diarrhea Until 5 days after the onset of the rash and 24 hours after the last episode of fever without anti-fever medication Until 24 hours after the rash has faded Until 24 hours after the last episode of vomiting 4.23. Electronic Devices/Cell Phones Allowing students to bring to school electronic devices, including but not limited to cell phones, pagers, or other audio/video devices, is a privilege afforded by HCS. Use or visible possession of any such device during school hours is strictly prohibited except by permission of the principal or in the case of devices issued to students by HCS for educational purposes. In addition, students may use personally-owned technology such as e-readers, tablets, notepads, laptops, or similar devices for instructional purposes with specific permission of their teacher. An acceptable use form, including specific instructions and conditions, will need to be signed and additional restrictions may apply. The use of electronic devices may not disturb or impede extracurricular activities. The HCS Board permits restricted and conditional access to and use of its technology resources, as well as personally-owned devices, for instructional purposes only and not for personal use. Students may use only accounts, files, software, and/or other technology resources that are assigned to, provided, or approved for him/her. The Board reserves the right to place conditions on, restrict, or prohibit the use of personally-owned technology resources, including all electronic devices and storage media on its property. School officials may read, examine, or inspect the contents upon reasonable suspicion that the device contains evidence of a violation of HCS Board Policy, the HCS Code of Student Conduct (refer to Appendix A), or other school rules. 5. CURRICULUM According to HCS Board Policy 7.1, elementary instruction is based upon the Alabama State Courses of Study and includes reading, English, spelling, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and physical education. For specific curriculum information, refer to the Alabama State Courses of Study website. For specific curriculum information, including the Career Academy, Cooperative Education and Live Work, refer to the Alabama State Courses of Study website and the HCS Course Description and Registration Guide located on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org. Please refer to Appendix E for further information regarding high school curriculum. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 33 5.1. Promotion Grade promotion will be based on student achievement. In elementary school, students must pass math and reading as well as either science or social studies. In middle school, a student who fails two (2) or more subjects or a student who fails a subject for two (2) consecutive years must attend summer school in order to be promoted. In highly extenuating circumstances in first through eighth grades*, the principal, after conference with the teacher and with the approval of the Superintendent, may recommend promotion of a student who does not meet the requirements for promotion. The student’s record will be marked “administrative promotion”. *Students who are administratively promoted from grade eight must attend an alternative program before entering their designated high school. 5.2. Retention Procedures (Grades K-5) It is the belief of the HCS Board of Education that students must demonstrate mastery of standards and progress through each grade level within one (1) school year. To accomplish this, instruction should be focused on the academic standards, accommodate the varying need and interests of individual students and include strategies for addressing academic deficiencies. To further promote student learning, schools and parents should form partnerships that involves parents who are engaged in their child’s education; foster shared responsibility among students, parents and staff, and encouraging ongoing two-way communication between parents and the school. If a student is not showing adequate progress during the initial part of the school year, in addition to low performance on other measures, the Problem Solving Team (PST) will convene to discuss possible interventions and develop a student intervention plan. In the event that the student becomes a candidate for retention, the PST, including the parents, teacher, and administrator, will discuss the interventions and the possibility of retention. All retained students must be screened through the PST process. 5.2.1. Retention Criteria Students in grades K-5 will be considered for retention using the following criteria: • Scores of 1 or 2 in the areas of math and reading on the standards-based report card • Inability to independently complete school work at the level necessary to succeed in a higher grade HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 34 • Below proficiency levels on district and state assessments • Absent an excessive number of school days • Inability to demonstrate mastery of standards in all subject matter • Teacher and principal recommendations within the PST process 5.2.2. Parent Notification Timeline • The PST will provide monthly updates to principal on progress of students with concerns • Mid-quarter progress reports/report cards will be sent to parents • Teachers will call parents of students with the majority of 1s and 2s on the standards-based report at mid-quarter • August: Notification of Promotion/Retention Guidelines in Student Handbook • October/November: Teachers will schedule parent/teacher conference. Concerns with student progress will be addressed as well as updates on PST recommended interventions By the middle of the 3rd quarter, the teacher will notify the principal of all students considered for retention. All students with a majority of 1’s and 2’s on the standards-based report card must be considered. Between January and March of each year, the principal will mail parents of students with a majority of 1’s and 2’s on the standards-based report card in grade K-5 a letter of concern. The letter will include a notice of possible retention. A parent-teacher conference will be scheduled. End of the 3rd Quarter – The Light’s Retention Scale will be completed as a part of the student assessment plan. By mid-May, a retention meeting with the parent, teacher, and the principal will be held. Upon review of all the data, the principal and teacher will confirm retention. The principal will send a letter to parent confirming the retention and a copy will be placed in the student’s cumulative file with documentation forms. An intervention plan for the following school year will also be provided at this time. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 35 5.3. State Mandated Assessment Program (2014-2015) The State Mandated Assessment Program for the school year 2014-2015 will include: Grade(s) Assessment 3–8 ACT ASPIRE 5&7 Alabama Science Assessment Grade 5 and Grade 7 3-12 Alabama Alternate Assessment K-12 ACCESS for Limited English Proficient (LEP) 8 ACT EXPLORE 10 ACT PLAN 11 ACT Plus Writing 8-12 12 9– 12 ACT Quality Core EOC- English 10-Algebra I ACT WorkKeys Alabama High School Graduation Exam (Fall, Mid-Year, Spring, Summer) No student takes all the tests listed above nor is all day devoted to testing on the specified number of days. The Alabama State Department of Education prescribed that a formative assessment be administered in all schools and school districts beginning in the 2012-13 school year. The formative assessment is relevant in assessing students and preparing them for Alabama's College- and CareerReady Standards in Kindergarten through grade 12. HCS implements rigorous formative assessments which provide a clear roadmap for educators to make instructional decisions that allow for significant impacts on student growth and achievement by providing critical information throughout the learning process. In keeping with Department of Education policy, the superintendent and the Board provide a regime of formative assessment to ensure students are on track to meet grade level and college and career readiness goals. Of note, by way of reference to Alabama Code Section 16-12-3, “the superintendent is the chief executive officer of the city board of education charged with the power to see that the board’s rules and regulations are carried into effect. The superintendent also has the power to explain the true meaning of the school laws and rules and regulations and to decide all controversies regarding There is currently no “Opting Out” option available according to Alabama law and the Alabama Code Section 920-4-2-.01. Should a student be absent on the day of testing, the absence will be correctly coded based on the definitions for excused and unexcused absences in accordance with Alabama Code Sections 16-28-3, 16-28-13, 16-28-16, and 16-28-22. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 36 Computer-Based Assessments - All electronic devices, except computers being used by students taking computer-based tests, must be turned off before testing begins and remain off until timed testing ends for all students. Possession of a digital device (including but not limited to cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, or other telecommunication devices capable of capturing or relaying information) is strictly prohibited during the administration of a secure test. School personnel will collect such devices when students enter the testing room. If a student is observed in possession of or using a digital device during the administration of a secure test, testing for the student will cease, the device will be confiscated and is subject to search, the student will be dismissed from testing, and the student’s test will be invalidated. 5.4. HCS Mandated Assessment Program (2014-2015) The HCS Mandated Assessment Program for the school year 2014-2015 will include: Grade(s) Assessment 1-12 STAR Enterprise Math & Reading (3-4 benchmarks during the school year) (STAR Enterprise Math and Reading Growth percentile will be included as a percentage of the student’s grade each nine (9) weeks for students showing growth) P-1 STAR Early Literacy (4 benchmarks during the school year) K-12 8-12 Schoolnet Benchmark (4 benchmarks – end of each nine (9) weeks) (Schoolnet benchmark percentile will be included as a percentage of the student’s grade each nine (9) weeks for those students showing growth) ACT QualityCore End-of-Course Assessment for the following classes: English 9; English 11; English 12; Algebra II; Geometry; Pre-Calculus; Biology; Chemistry; Physics; and U.S. History (The QualityCore grade will be included as a percentage of the student’s final grade for the course for those students showing growth) 5.5. High School Exams Because of the high accountability standards imposed at national and state levels, all HCS high school students will take all of their first and second semester exams. There are no examination exemptions, unless approved by the principal and the Superintendent/designee. Students who enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) classes are required to sit for the AP tests at the end of the academic year in order to receive the extra quality point. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 37 5.6. Participation in Graduation Ceremonies Only those students who have completed all requirements for a diploma or those students who have completed their prescribed Individual Education Plan (IEP) will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. Student participation in graduation ceremonies and related graduation activities will be subject to the principal’s approval and payment of outstanding financial obligations. Participation in a graduation-related ceremony may be prohibited by the principal if the student violates disciplinary standards or if, in the judgment of the principal, the student’s participating could lead or contribute to disorder or disruption of the ceremony or activity. 5.7. Internet Access to the internet has been made available to HCS students, teachers, and staff. The goal is to promote educational excellence in HCS by facilitating research, resource sharing, innovation, and communication. The internet is to be used in support of research and education that is consistent with the educational objectives of HCS. Please refer to Appendix D for internet safety guidelines. 5.8. Private Tutoring For information about private tutoring, see HCS Board Policy 6.1.4. 5.9. Make Up Work • If a student is absent for a school sponsored trip or for an excused reason, the teacher will provide an opportunity for the student to make up missed assignments and/or tests. This opportunity will be provided within a two-week period following the absence of the student. The teacher cannot be expected to re-teach the lesson, but the student will receive a reasonable opportunity to learn missed lessons. • Teachers are under no obligation to permit students who are absent for unexcused reasons to make up missed assignments; however, when the absence is apparently beyond the control of the pupil, the teacher may choose to provide an opportunity for the student to earn a grade for those days absent. This does not apply to absences due to suspension/expulsions. • Students who do not pass (receive credit) for required courses in grades 9 through 12 must repeat the course. Credit in all required courses is necessary for graduation. Opportunities to repeat required courses are offered. • Students are allowed to make up missed assignments or tests for a period of suspension. A time line of two (2) weeks or the end of the nine (9) week grading period, whichever comes first, is allowed for make up work, unless the end of the nine (9) week period coincides with the absence so closely that a hardship is created for the student. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 38 5.10. Credit Recovery/Summer School According to HCS Board Policy 7.5, students who did not receive credit in a course due to nonmastery of content or skills may apply for credit recovery. Credit recovery is based on making up deficiencies rather than on repeating the entire course. To be eligible for credit recovery, students must have achieved a baseline score of 40 or above (on a 100 point scale). The final grade in credit recovery may not exceed 70 (on a 100 point scale). Students with a baseline score below 40 (on a 100 point scale) are not eligible for credit recovery and must repeat the entire course. Credit recovery may be delivered by a highly qualified teacher or through instructional technology. Credit recovery is not an option for students who have earned a credit in the course. Details for the HCS summer school program for each year can be located on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org under the Curriculum and Instruction Department. 5.11. Magnet Programs HCS provides all students with the opportunity to apply to a magnet school that offers a unique curriculum. In an endeavor to broaden public school choice and to accommodate student interest, the HCS magnet program provides diverse enrollment and increased educational choices for students and families. HCS magnet programs include a variety of options with a focused theme. The magnet schools and themes currently available in HCS are as follows: Magnet School Academy for Academics and Arts Academy for Science and Foreign Language Grades Theme(s) K-8 Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts K-8 Science, Foreign Language, International Baccalaureate: PYP, MYP Columbia High School 9-12 International Baccalaureate: MYP, DP, IBCC Johnson High School 9-12 Lee High School New Century High School Williams Middle School Current Theme: Law Academy Proposed Theme for 2015-16: Collegiate Academy Theatre, Orchestra, Creative Writing, Vocal Performance, Visual 9-12 Arts, Photography 9-12 Technology: Medical, Computer, Aerospace 6-8 Technology Students may apply to the HCS magnet programs annually by online application via the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org. Applications for each magnet program will be accepted for a designated period of time. Announcements will be made regarding time frames for application. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 39 Following application review, applicants will be notified by the HCS Magnet Programs Office. For further information, please contact the Magnet Programs Office at 256-428-6864. 5.12. Homebound Homebound instruction is designed to provide continuity of educational services between the classroom and home or health care facility, for students whose medical needs, both physical and psychiatric, do not allow school attendance for a limited period of time. Homebound instruction may be used to supplement the classroom program for students with health impairments whose conditions may interfere with regular school attendance (e.g., students receiving dialysis or radiation/chemotherapy; or students with other serious health conditions). Homebound instruction is not intended to supplant school services and is by design temporary. While no specific number of days can be set due to the many complex situations that arise for students, instruction should take place in the school setting to the fullest extent possible. The student’s inability to attend school for medical reasons, both physical and psychiatric, must be certified by a licensed physician or licensed clinical psychologist. Homebound Services are not a guarantee that the student will progress in the academic program. 5.13. Homework Homework should be meaningful and reasonable. It should not be a substitute for teaching but should be reinforcement, a practical application, or enrichment of what has been taught. Consideration should be given to the time involved in completing the assignment. Each school faculty should cooperatively develop a homework policy which follows the guidelines in the Alabama Courses of Study. The policy shall insure that students spend a reasonable amount of time outside the school doing homework. 5.14. Response to Instruction and Problem Solving Teams Response to Instruction (RtI) integrates core classroom instruction, assessment, and interventions within a multi-tiered system to maximize student achievement and reduce behavior problems. Through the implementation of RtI, schools identify and monitor students who are at-risk of failing courses. Schools use problem-solving and data-based decision making to provide research-based interventions to students who need additional assistance in core classes. Problem Solving Teams (PST) monitor student progress frequently and adjust the intensity of the intervention based on student results. These teams make high quality decisions to support all students, especially those at risk of failing to achieve state performance standards. 5.15. Normal Progress It is expected that high school students will pass all or almost all of their courses each year. In addition it is expected that all students will graduate with their four year cohort. In view of this HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 40 expectation, a student who has not earned the minimum credit necessary for graduation in a fiveyear period, or who is over 21 years of age, must find an alternative situation for classes and will not be permitted to remain in a regular high school. Consideration may be given for extenuating circumstances such as prolonged illness or family crisis with the Superintendent’s approval. It is expected that high school students will attend school so that they may earn the minimum amount of required units necessary for graduation. Regular attendance is required. Accordingly, after a student who is 17 years of age or above, has 15 unexcused absences (and is failing course work), the principal, or designee, will give or send parent(s) a letter to the address of record of the student, addressed both to the student and student’s parent(s) or legal custodian, explaining that the student has missed an excessive number of days of school and will be dismissed from school unless attendance is improved. If the student accumulates an additional 5 (total of 20) unexcused absences, the principal, or designee, will give or send a letter to the parent(s) and the student informing them that the student is in immediate danger of being dismissed from school. If the student accumulates an additional 10 (total of 30) unexcused absences, the principal, or designee, will give or send a letter to the parent(s) and the student informing them that the student is dismissed from school subject to the right of the student to demand a hearing with someone designated by the Superintendent. At such hearing, the student and/or the student’s parent(s) will have the opportunity to explain the reasons for the absences and the reasons why the student should not be dismissed from school for the remainder of the semester. In the event the hearing officer sustains the action of the principal, the student will be dismissed from school for the remainder of the semester but may be allowed to re-enroll the following semester. 6. ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Voluntary extracurricular and co-curricular activities are defined as continuing activities available to students beyond the regular day. Scholastic eligibility for participation in sports will be governed by the rules of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. No grade requirements beyond those established by the AHSAA may be imposed for sports or cheerleading. Requirements beyond those established by the AHSAA, however, may be imposed for other school activities. Other school system rules, including conduct rules, apply to students participating in sports, cheerleading, and other extracurricular and co-curricular activities. All other rules pertaining to the Athletic Eligibility may be found in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Handbook. These handbooks are located in the principal’s office in each middle and high school. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 41 7. SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES HCS provides a full range of services and educational support for identified exceptional students ages 3 to 21. Autism Hearing Impaired Specific Learning Disabilities Deaf-Blindness Intellectual Disabilities Speech/Language Impaired Developmentally Delayed Multiple Disabilities Traumatic Brain Injury Emotional Disturbance Other Health Impaired Visually Impaired Gifted/Talented Orthopedically Impaired All referrals, evaluations, and educational support are provided in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Alabama Act 106, Exceptional Children’s Act, and The Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Information regarding classes or referral procedures may be obtained from the school principal or from the Special Education Office at 428-6872. 7.1. Section 504 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 states that “no otherwise qualified individual with a disability shall be excluded from the participation in, or denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.” It is the responsibility of HCS to take reasonable steps to identify and evaluate students within the intent of the American’s With Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 who need accommodations or special services or programs in order that such students may receive a free appropriate education. Additional due process rights may be afforded students who are identified under Section 504. Contact the school principal for information. The HCS Section 504 Coordinator is located in the Merts Administration Building and may be reached at 428-6925. 7.2. Gifted/Talented HCS houses a program for gifted students in every elementary school. Intellectually gifted children and youth are those who perform at or have demonstrated the potential to perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared with others of their age, experience, or environment. These children and youth require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Children and youth possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor. Gifted students may be found within HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 42 any race, ethnicity, gender, economic class, or nationality. disabilities may be gifted. In addition, some students with Teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self, or any other individuals with knowledge of the student’s abilities may refer a student. Additionally, all second grade students will be observed as potential gifted referrals using a gifted behavior checklist. For each student referred, information is gathered in the areas of Aptitude, Characteristics, and Performance. The information is entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points earned determines if the student qualifies for gifted services. To make a referral, contact the gifted education teacher at your child’s school or the Director of Special Education at 428-6872. 8. SCHOOL BUSES/TRANSPORTATION School bus conduct and discipline are parental and student responsibilities. Rules and safety regulations have been established for the benefit of all concerned. It is important that these rules be observed in order to ensure the safety of all student passengers. Parents are requested to ensure that their child(ren) fully understand(s) school bus rules and obey(s) them. Students should be at their assigned bus stop on time and ready to enter the bus upon arrival. School buses operate on a strict schedule and will not wait for students who are late. When students miss their bus, parents are responsible for providing their child’s transportation to school. Questions and/or concerns should be directed to the Transportation Coordinator at 428-8352. 8.1. General Eligibility Guidelines for School Bus Transportation The general eligibility guidelines for school bus transportation are as follows: Elementary and middle school students (kindergarten through 8th grade) who live more than two (2) miles from their school are eligible for school bus transportation. High school students (9th through 12th grade) who live more than five (5) miles from their school are eligible for school bus transportation. Students approved for Majority-to-Minority Student Transfers and Magnet Schools are eligible for school bus transportation from their home/zoned school to the newly assigned school. HCS reserves the right to determine eligibility for school bus transportation. Questions regarding eligibility for school bus transportation should be directed to Durham School Services at 489-1025 or to the HCS Transportation Department at 428-8352. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 43 8.2. School Bus Rules of Conduct Follow all school rules as published in this handbook. Do not use profane or obscene language. Food and drink are not allowed. Do not litter. Possession or use of tobacco products/electronic cigarettes is not allowed. Do not damage the bus or equipment on the bus. You must remain in your seat. Keep your head, hands and feet inside of the bus. Do not fight, push, or shove. Do not tamper with bus equipment. Pets are not allowed on the bus. Do not bring flammable or other hazardous materials on the bus. The bus driver is authorized to assign seats. 8.3. Bus Discipline Procedures Bus discipline will be handled by the school principal or the principal’s designee as outlined below. For elementary school students: 1st Violation – student given a written warning 2nd Violation - two (2) day suspension from the bus 3rd Violation - five (5) day suspension from the bus 4th Violation - fifteen (15) day suspension from the bus 5th Violation - the student will be suspended from the bus for the remainder of the school year. For middle/high school students: 1st Violation – student given a written warning 2nd Violation - ten (10) day suspension from the bus 3rd Violation - the student will be suspended from the bus for the remainder of the school year. Anytime throughout the school year, if a student is considered a threat to the safety of students and/or the safe operations of the bus, the student may be removed from the bus for the remainder of the school year. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 44 8.4. School Bus Transportation “Exception” Request Form The student’s parent or guardian can apply for a transportation exception using the procedures below. A Transportation Exception may be granted if there is space available on a bus. Exception forms will be processed as quickly as possible. If space is available at the time of submission, your child will be a designated a Guest Rider and will be allowed to board the bus the next day. NOTICE: Buses will not be added to a route and bus stops will not be modified in order to accommodate Transportation Exceptions (Guest Riders). This form must be resubmitted at the beginning of each school year. Situations that require a School Bus Transportation “Exception” Request Form: • Students who otherwise would not qualify for HCS bus transportation • Students who qualify for HCS bus transportation and want to ride a bus other than their assigned home-to-school bus route 8.4.1. Form Procedures Enroll or be enrolled in HCS. Obtain a Transportation Exception Request Form in one of the following ways: o Access on the HCS website at www.hsv-k12.org under Transportation o Go to the school that your child is enrolled at and complete the appropriate form. Submit the form in one of the following ways: o Bring to Transportation department at 714 Bob Wallace Avenue; Huntsville, AL 35801 o Fax to 256-428-8351 o Email the attachments to [email protected] o Mail to the Transportation Department at Huntsville City Schools; Attn: Transportation Dept.; 714 Bob Wallace Ave.; Huntsville, AL 35801 • The Transportation Department will contact you within five (5) days of receipt of the request by telephone. If you have not heard from Transportation within five (5) days, you may contact at 428-8352 or 428-8310. Exceptions will be granted on a case-by-case basis. Exceptions could be disapproved at the school or district level. Exception forms will be processed on a first-come first-served basis. If space on the requested bus route is not available, a waiting list will be maintained. The order of the list will be based on the date the application was received by the Transportation Department. Buses will not be added to a route and bus stops will not be modified in order to accommodate Transportation Exceptions. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 45 • Transportation Exceptions may be rescinded for reasons that include changes in space availability. If Transportation Exceptions have to be rescinded because of lack of space, the application date will be used to determine the order of rescission beginning with the most recently approved date. That is, the last student exception approved will be the first to be rescinded and placed on the waiting list. • Transportation Exceptions will be rescinded if the student violates any bus rule. There will be no warnings given regarding the students (Guest Rider) behavior. If the student (Guest Rider) receives a disciplinary referral, their bus privileges will be suspended for the rest of the school year. Due to the large volume of exception forms received at the start of the new school year, there may be a delay in processing the forms. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page 46 APPENDIX A: HCS CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT Student Discipline Policy The HCS Board of Education requires that all students enrolled in the city schools conduct themselves in a manner that facilitates the educational process. To ensure that the educational process in the schools is not disrupted because of misbehavior on the part of enrolled students, the Board of Education has established specific classifications of misbehaviors and the appropriate disciplinary actions to deal with these violations of student conduct. Violations are grouped into three classes - Minor, Intermediate, and Major. These are violations that occur on public school property, at school sponsored events, in vehicles parked on school property, or in school authorized vehicles. However, a bomb threat is not restricted to school property or event, nor is any violation so restricted, if the conduct demonstrates the existence of a threat to discipline and good order on school property or at school sponsored events. The described disciplinary actions are the normally expected punishments. However, in an extreme case the administration is permitted to impose a more severe punishment as dictated by circumstances. Alabama Code Section 16-1-14 advises that any local school board may remove, isolate, or separate pupils who create disciplinary problems in any classroom or other school activities and whose presence in the class may be detrimental to the best interest and welfare of the class. Please refer to the following information regarding Physical Restraint and Seclusion for ALL Students from the Alabama Administrative Code §290-3-1-.02(1)(f): “1. Definitions (iii). Physical Restraint – Direct physical contact from an adult that prevents or significantly restricts a student’s movement. The term physical restraint does not include mechanical restraint or chemical restraint. Additionally, physical restraint does not include: providing limited physical contact and/or redirection to promote student safety or prevent self-injurious behavior, providing physical guidance or prompting when teaching a skill, redirecting attention, providing guidance to a location, providing comfort, or providing limited physical contact as reasonably needed to prevent imminent destruction to school or another person’s property. (iv). Physical Restraint that restricts the flow of air to the student’s lungs – Any method (face-down, faceup, or on your side) of physical restraint in which physical pressure is applied to the student’s body that restricts the flow of air into the student’s lungs. Use of this type of restraint is prohibited in Alabama public schools and educational programs. (v). Seclusion – a procedure that isolates and confines the student in a separate, locked area until he or she is no longer an immediate danger to himself/herself or others. The seclusion occurs in a specifically HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A1 constructed or designated room or space that is physically isolated from common areas and from which the student is physically prevented from leaving. Seclusion does not include situations in which a staff member trained in the use of de-escalation techniques or restraint is physically present in the same unlocked room as the student, time-out as defined in paragraph (1.) (vi) of this rule, in-school suspension, detention, or a student-requested break in a different location in the room or in a separate room. Use of seclusion is prohibited in Alabama public schools and educational programs. 2. Requirements (i). The use of seclusion is prohibited in Alabama public schools and educational programs. (v). The use of physical restraint is prohibited in Alabama public schools and educational programs except in those situations in which the student is an immediate danger to himself or others and the student is not responsive to less intensive behavioral interventions including verbal directives or other de-escalation techniques. Notwithstanding the foregoing, physical restraint is prohibited in Alabama public schools and educational programs when used as a form of discipline or punishment. (vi). All physical restraint must be immediately terminated when the student is no longer an immediate danger to himself or others or if the student is observed to be in severe distress.” NO STUDENT SHALL BE PUNISHED FOR ANY SUSPECTED VIOLATION WITHOUT BEING GIVEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO ADMIT OR DENY THE CHARGE(S). CLASS I - MINOR OFFENSES 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 Excessive distraction of other students - Any conduct and/or behavior which is disruptive to the orderly educational process in the classroom or any similar grouping for instruction. Participation in non-school approved organizations - Any on-campus activities of fraternities, sororities, secret societies, non-affiliated school clubs, or gangs. Minor intimidation of another student - The intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another student, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and doing some act which creates a well-founded fear in the person that such violence is imminent. Gambling - Any participation in games of chance for money and/or other things of value. Tardiness - Reporting late to school or class. Non-directed use of profane or obscene language (verbal, written, or any gesture). Non-conformity to Policy on Appearance and Dress. Minor disruption on a school bus. Inappropriate display of affection, including, but not limited to, embracing and kissing. Unauthorized absence from class (cutting class). Intentionally providing false information to an employee of HCS including but not limited to, giving false student information data, forgery of school notes, grades, signatures (teachers' or parents') and concealment of information directly relating to school business. Failure to properly display current student permit sticker on vehicle. Continued refusal to complete class assignments. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A2 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 Failure to follow instructions - examples: failure to carry correspondence home; failure to obey directions in hallways, assemblies, etc. Unauthorized use of school or personal property. Littering of school property. Possession of tobacco products - Having tobacco products at/in all campus facilities. Possession of matches or lighters. Technology infraction - (refer to the following Guidelines for Technology Infractions) DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS FOR CLASS I VIOLATIONS Grades K-5 First Offense of any Class I Violations: Conference with student and reasonable effort to make parental contact. Severity of offense under Class I violations may warrant disciplinary action as outlined under subsequent offenses. Subsequent Offenses of Class I Violations: Parental contact and in-school disciplinary actions or suspension not to exceed 3 school days. Repeated offenses on more than two occasions may result in disciplinary action as specified under Subsequent Offenses of Class II Violations. Grades 6-12 First Offense of any Class I Violation: Conference with student and reasonable effort to make parental contact and/or in-school disciplinary action. Severity of offense under Class I violations may warrant disciplinary action as out-lined under subsequent offenses. Subsequent Offenses of Class I Violations: In-school disciplinary action or suspension not to exceed 5 school days. Repeated offenses or more than two occasions may result in disciplinary action as specified under Subsequent Offenses of Class II Violations. Students With Disabilities Under Individuals With Disabilities Education Act Unless otherwise stated in the IEP, regular disciplinary procedures should be employed with disabled students who commit a Class I offense. A student identified as disabled under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act may not be suspended (out of school) for more than ten (10) school days in a school year. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A3 CLASS II - INTERMEDIATE OFFENSES 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 Defiance of employee of Huntsville City Schools or person(s) acting in an official capacity - Any verbal or non-verbal refusal to comply with a reasonable direction or order of a Huntsville City Schools' employee or person(s) acting in an official capacity. Fighting - Any physical confrontation between two or more individuals in which physical contact is made with harmful intent. Inciting or participating in student disorder. Vandalism - Intentional and deliberate action resulting in injury or damages of less than $200 to public, real, or personal property of another. Stealing - Theft - The intentional, unlawful taking and/or carrying away of public, real, or personal property having a value in the judgment of the principal of less than $100 belonging to or in the lawful possession or custody of another. Possession of stolen property. Threats or Attempted Extortion -Verbally or by a written or printed communication, maliciously threatening an injury to the person, property, or reputation of another or with intent to extort money, property or any pecuniary advantage whatsoever, or with intent to compel the person so threatened, or any other person, to do any act or refrain from doing any act against the individual’s will. NOTE: Completion of the threat, either by the victim's complying with the demands or the carrying out of the threat against the victim, constitutes a Class III Offense. Trespassing -Willfully entering or remaining in any structure, conveyance, or property without being authorized, licensed, or invited; OR is warned by an authorized person to depart and refuses to do so (Unauthorized presence - Entering or remaining on public school property or attending any school related activity while under suspension.) Possessing and/or igniting fireworks or firecrackers. Inadvertent possession of a simple pocket knife, mace, or pepper mace that is not used in a threatening manner, nor with a suggestion of threat, and is not openly displayed and with no intent to be armed and with no participation in violence while in possession. No student may have any instrument, which gives the appearance of a gun or knife. Touching of another person in a sexual manner. Written or verbal propositions to engage in sexual acts. Use of profane or obscene manifestations (verbal, written, gesture) toward another person. Possession of pornographic material. Unauthorized absence from school (skipping, truancy). Leaving school grounds without permission. Disruption of the educational process caused by the wearing of obscene, secret society, or fraternity/sorority (non-affiliated school clubs) apparel. Possession of paraphernalia or equipment commonly used to consume a controlled substance. Use or visible possession of electronic devices including, but not limited to, cell phones, pagers, or other audio/video devices during school hours except by permission of the Principal for documented health or other extraordinary needs; disturbing or impeding extracurricular activities through the use of electronic devices. Unjustified activation of fire alarm or fire extinguishers. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A4 2.22 2.23 2.24 2.25 2.26 2.27 2.28 2.29 2.30 2.31 2.32 2.33 2.34 2.35 2.36 Unsafe/unlicensed driving on school property or other violations of the school parking and driving rules. Violation of the conditions of school probation, Principal Level. Intentional, unlawful participation in gambling activities. Engaging in any act that is deemed unlawful to include possession or use of a laser. Under the influence of drugs/alcohol or intoxicating inhalants but not to the extent of being intoxicated as defined under Class III-Major Offenses, 3.03. Threats to School Personnel - The intentional threat by word or act, whether communicated in person, writing, or by telephone or electronic device, to do violence to teachers or other school personnel. An intentional attack upon any individual which does not result in bodily harm. Sexual harassment - Unwelcome touching, or other unwelcome sexual advances or propositions, requests for sexual favors or sexually degrading words toward a person, graphic comments or materials about a person's body, or other unwelcome oral, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by a student directed to another student or staff member constitutes sexual harassment. Use of tobacco products at/in all campus facilities. Unauthorized computer hacking without damage to school property or unauthorized use of school computer without damage to school property, hardware, software, or records. Improper display or discussion of private body parts, bodily functions or sexual acts not amounting to a Class III offense. Cheating - The use or attempted use of any deceptive or dishonest method of improving a grade or altering a record. Failure to comply with the Medication Policy and Procedure. Harassment - A continuous pattern of intentional behavior that takes place on school property, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored event whether written, electronic, verbal, or physical acts that are perceived as motivated by race, sex, religion, national origin or disability. Technology infraction - (refer to the following Guidelines for Technology Infractions) DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS FOR CLASS II VIOLATIONS Grades K-5 First Offense of any Class II Violation: Parental contact and in-school disciplinary actions. Severity of offense may warrant disciplinary action as outlined under subsequent offenses. Subsequent Offenses of Class II Violations: In-school disciplinary actions or suspension not to exceed 5 school days. If disciplinary actions are not effective, the principal may recommend school probation, Superintendent Level. Repeated offenses on more than two occasions may result in disciplinary actions as specified under Subsequent Offenses of Class III Violations. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A5 Grades 6-12 First Offense of any Class II Violation: In-school disciplinary actions or suspension not to exceed 5 school days. Severity of offense may warrant disciplinary actions as outlined under Subsequent Offenses. Subsequent Offenses of Class II Violations: Suspension not to exceed 7 school days. If disciplinary actions are not effective, principal may recommend school probation, Superintendent Level. Repeated offenses on more than two occasions may result in disciplinary actions as specified under Subsequent Offenses of Class III Violations. In addition, the district may require restitution of property and damages where appropriate. Students With Disabilities Under Individuals With Disabilities Education Act: Unless otherwise stated in the IEP, regular disciplinary procedures should be employed with disabled students who commit a Class II offense. A student identified as disabled under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act may not be suspended (out of school) for more than ten (I 0) school days in a school year. CLASS III – MAJOR OFFENSES NOTE: The violation of a Class III offense may result in expulsion from Huntsville City Schools. The commission of the following offenses may constitute violation of criminal laws established by the State of Alabama. 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 Drugs - Possession, transfer, use, or sale of drugs or of any substance purported to be a controlled substance; *Repeat offenders for possession, transfer, use, or sale of drugs. Alcoholic beverages - Possession, transfer, use, or sale of alcoholic beverages. Intoxication - Under the influence of drugs, alcohol or other inhalants to the extent that the individual's ability to speak clearly, walk normally, follow directions or perform classroom and/or other school related duties is impaired, or to the extent that the individual engages in loud, disruptive or boisterous behavior, or to the extent that the individual is found to be intoxicated under Alabama Law. Arson - The willful and malicious burning of any real/personal property. Menacing - Threats - The intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to an individual, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and the doing of some act which creates a well-formed fear in the individual that violence is imminent. (Must have all 3 components.) *Assault - Actually and intentionally pushing or striking another individual (student or adult) against the will of the other, causing serious physical injury. Stealing - Theft - Counterfeiting - The intentional, unlawful taking and/or carrying away of public, real, or personal property having a value in the judgment of the principal of $100 or more HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A6 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21 3.22 3.23 belonging to or in the lawful possession or custody of another. Possession or transfer of counterfeit money regardless of denomination of bill. *Burglary of school property - Breaking and entering into a structure or conveyance without justification or excuse during the hours the premises are closed to the public. Criminal mischief - Willful and malicious injury or damages in excess of $200 to public, real, or personal property belonging to another. *Possession, Discharge, and/or Use of Firearms - Any firearm which will, or is designed to, or may readily be converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of any such weapon; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; any similar destructive device. Possession of weapon(s) - Knowing possession of a weapon or anything designed, made or adapted or used for the purpose of inflicting death or serious physical injury. Such weapons include, but are not limited to, BB gun, pellet gun, air rifle, starter gun; switchblade knife, box cutter, sword, dagger, or stiletto; any club, baton, blackjack, or metal knuckles. *Possession of a weapon while suggesting or participating in violence whether or not there is intent to be armed. Bomb threat - Any such communication(s) concerning school board property which has the effect of interrupting the educational environment. *Explosives - Preparing, possessing or igniting on Huntsville City Schools' property explosives likely to cause serious bodily injury or property damage. Such explosives include but not limited to, dynamite, TNT, or other similar substances. *Sexual acts - Acts of sexual nature including, but not limited to, battery, intercourse, oral sex, attempted rape, rape, or other indecent acts. *Robbery - The taking of money or other property from the person or custody of another by force, violence, assault, or instilling fear in same. Continued use, after warning, of profane or obscene manifestations (verbal, written, gesture) to any employee of Huntsville City Schools or person(s) on official business. *Inciting or participating in student disorder - Leading, encouraging or assisting in disruptions which result in destruction or damage of private or public property or personal injury to participants or others. *Unjustified activation of a fire alarm system or fire extinguishers which results in injury to participants/others or disruption of school activities. Extortion - Completion of a threat, either by the victim's complying with the demands or the carrying out of the threat against the victim. Violation of the conditions of school probation, Superintendent Level. *Threats to School Personnel - The intentional threat by word or act, whether communicated in person, writing, or by telephone or electronic device to do violence to teachers or other school personnel, coupled with the apparent ability to do so, and the doing of some act which creates a well-formed fear in the individual that violence is imminent. Discharge or use of mace or pepper mace. Computer hacking with damage to school property or unauthorized use of school computer which damages school hardware, software, records, or programs. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A7 3.24 3.25 Harassment - Repeated offenses of harassment - A continuous pattern of intentional behavior that take place on school property, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored event whether written, electronic, verbal, or physical acts that are perceived as motivated by race, sex, religion, national origin, or disability. Technology infraction - (refer to the following Guidelines for Technology Infractions) *Indicates offenses for which expulsion will be for the remainder of the semester and for the following semester. In the case of a 3.11 offense, this expulsion rule applies only to the last sentence. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS FOR CLASS III VIOLATIONS Grades K-5 Suspension up to 10 school days. In addition, principal must recommend school probation, Superintendent's Level, unless the offense is in violation of policies that require initiation of expulsion procedures. Also, severity of offense may warrant recommendation of expulsion. Grades 6-12 The punishment for the commission of a Class III offense is normally expulsion with a suspension to the hearing panel unless otherwise authorized by the Superintendent. In addition, the board may require restitution of property and damages where appropriate. Students With Disabilities Under Individuals With Disabilities Education Act When a student who is disabled under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act commits a Class III offense for which expulsion procedures can be initiated, an IEP Committee meeting must be held to determine the relationship of the disability to the incident and to determine if a change in placement is warranted. Students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act are not expelled, but may be placed in alternative programs by the IEP Committee. A student identified as disabled under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act may not be suspended (out of school) for more than ten (10) school days in a school year. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A8 Guidelines for Technology Infractions This is a companion document to the HCS Code of Student Conduct. Refer to the HCS Board Policy and the HCS Code of Student Conduct for additional information. Technology offenses will be handled as set forth below. Technology discipline offenses will also result in the restricted use of personal mobile computing devices while on school grounds. CLASS I - MINOR OFFENSES 1.19 Technology Infraction (a-e) a) Unauthorized or inappropriate written/oral communication, use of e-mail, websites, apps, games, messaging services, chat rooms, or other non-school related activity. School personnel may authorize educational use of the above applications during school hours or otherwise when school is not in session. b) Use of non-directed profane, inflammatory, or abusive language. c) Downloading, loading, storing, creating, unauthorized files, images, video, music, apps, data, or programs that do not result in damages to person or property. d) Unauthorized transmission of personal information over the internet (refer to Appendix D). e) Activity that may be disruptive to the school environment CONSEQUENCES • • • • • • • Classroom warning Possible loss of device access Temporary loss of device access Parent contact Referral to administrator Before or after school detention In-school suspension not to exceed three (3) days CLASS II – INTERMEDIATE OFFENSES 2.36 Technology Infraction (a-l) a) Negligent care of or vandalism such as malicious attempt to harm or destroy any HCS device resulting in damage less than $200. b) Changing software/hardware configurations. c) Downloading, loading, storing, or creating unauthorized files, images, video, music, apps, data, programs, or viruses resulting in damages to any HCS device. d) Taking pictures, audio, and/or video without subject's or school's permission. e) Use of unauthorized anonymous and/or false communications such as, but not limited to Google Chat, MSN Messenger, and Yahoo Messenger. f) Unauthorized change of program settings or any behavior or activity that damages or disrupts network performance on school devices. g) Sending, transmitting, accessing, uploading, downloading, or distributing inappropriate, obscene, offensive, profane, threatening, harassing, pornographic, or sexually explicit materials intended to harm or demean staff or students. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A9 h) Deletion, examination, copying, or modifying of files/data/device settings belonging to other users including staff, students, and district to include sharing, using, or modifying usernames and/or passwords. i) Bypassing the HCS web filter through a web proxy. j) Cheating (refer to HCS Code of Student Conduct, Class II (Intermediate Offenses) 2.33) k) Subsequent offenses that may be disruptive to the school environment. l) Action violating existing board policy CONSEQUENCES • Temporary loss of device access • Parent contact • Referral to administrator • Before or after school detention • In-school suspension • Out of school suspension not to exceed five (5) days • Possible referral to law enforcement • Restitution in vandalism instances for actual loss, damage, or repair • Indemnification - HCS may be indemnified for any losses, costs, or damages including reasonable attorney fees incurred by the district relating to any breach of the Acceptable Use Policy CLASS III – MAJOR OFFENSES 3.25 Technology Infraction (a-h) a) Any activity that voids the device, service agreement, software license or warranty such as, but not limited to jail breaking or rooting (process of hacking a device to bypass digital rights management software). b) Unauthorized entry to program files/hacking. c) Harassment (refer to HCS Code of Student Conduct, Class III (Major Offenses) 3.24) d) Vandalism such as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy a HCS owned device resulting in damages in excess of $200. e) Sending, transmitting, accessing, uploading, downloading, distributing, or publishing obscene, offensive, profane, threatening, harassing, pornographic, or sexually explicit materials that result in personal injury to staff or students. f) Use of school/district's Internet or email accounts for financial gain or personal gain, or any illegal activity (refer to Appendix D). g) Offenses on multiple occasions that may be disruptive to the school environment. h) Any use that violates local, state and/or federal laws or regulations. CONSEQUENCES • Loss of device access • Parent contact • Referral to administrator • Before or after school detention • In-school suspension HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A10 • • • • Out of school suspension not to exceed ten (10) days Suspension and/or recommendation for Superintendent Level Probation or expulsion and forfeiture of device. Restitution in vandalism instances for actual loss, damage, or repair Indemnification - HCS may be indemnified for any losses, costs, or damages including reasonable attorney fees incurred by the district relating to any breach of the Acceptable Use Policy. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A11 Student Discipline Procedures Suspension NOTE: A disabled student may not be suspended out of school for more than ten (10) days in a school year. Any more time in suspension would result in a change in placement, which requires IEP Committee action. Only an IEP Committee may change a disabled student's placement. A disabled student who is suspended will be permitted to complete work or tests missed during the suspension. In-School Suspension a) In-School Suspension is defined as placement in a program located in an isolated area of the school b) c) d) e) where a student is provided an opportunity to continue the educational process. A student may not be placed on In-School Suspension for more than five (5) school days at any one time and no more than twenty (20) school days in the aggregate during any one (1) school year (pay particular attention to note concerning disabled students). The principal will follow HCS policies with reference to student records. Prior to In-School Suspension, the principal/delegate will advise the student of the charge(s) and the student shall have the opportunity to tell what occurred. Prior to assigning a student to In-School Suspension, a reasonable effort will be made to notify the parent and to have a conference by phone or in person. If the parent cannot be reached, the student will be given a Notice of Suspension and a copy will be mailed to the parent. Out-of-School Suspension a) Out-of-School Suspension is defined as the temporary withdrawal of the school attendance privilege for no more than ten (10) school days at any one time. See above NOTE for suspension as to disabled students. b) A student may not be suspended from school more than twenty (20) school days in the aggregate during any one school year. c) The principal will follow HCS policies with reference to student records. d) The principal/delegate will advise the student of the charge(s) and the student shall have the opportunity to tell what occurred. e) Prior to suspending a student from school, a reasonable effort will be made to notify the parent, hold an informal conference, and release the student to same. If the parent cannot be reached prior to the end of the school day, the student will be given a Notice of Suspension (Form HCS330-0l) stating the charge(s) in writing against the student and requesting a conference with the parent. • One copy will be mailed to the parent. • The administrator will continue to try to contact the parent. • The student shall remain in school, unless under an emergency situation, until the end of the school day or until released to the parent or designee. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A12 Suspension Notice Filing and Distribution The original is forwarded to the Office of Student Support Services (Superintendent's Office). One copy is distributed to the student, one copy to the parent, one copy to be placed in the student's cumulative record, and one copy to the principal. A copy should be given to Special Education student's teacher of record. (Center for Technology and resident school must notify each other.) School Probation General a) School probation is defined as the conditional school attendance of any student. b) Levels of school probation include the Principal and Superintendent. c) During a specified period of time of probation, individual attention by a staff member shall be directed to assist the student in conforming to acceptable behavior standards. d) If a suspected controlled substance is involved, the Security Supervisor, who serves as the liaison between the school system and the Office of State Toxicologist, is to be notified. HPD is responsible for transporting the substance. Principal's Probation When placing a student on school probation, Principal Level, which is not to exceed twelve (12) school weeks at any one time, the principal or delegate shall adhere to the following practices: a) Advise the student of the charge(s) and give the student the opportunity to tell what occurred. b) Make a reasonable effort to hold a conference to inform the parent of the offense, the school probation status, and the conditions. c) Document the probationary status with the time, date, cause(s), duration, and conditions. (Use Form HCS330-25.) d) Distribute copies of the school probation form, forwarding the original to the Office of Student Support Services, one copy to the student, one copy to the parent, one copy to the principal, and one copy to be placed in the student's cumulative record. Superintendent's Probation When a student is recommended for school probation status, Superintendent Level, which is not to exceed eighteen (18) weeks at any one time, the Office of the Superintendent shall: a) Require the principal to: • Notify the student verbally and in writing of charge(s) and give the student the opportunity to tell what occurred. (If student is suspended, the charge(s) in writing will be on the suspension notice form.) • Make a reasonable effort to hold an informal conference to inform the parent of the offense and the decision to recommend school probation, Superintendent Level, and to explain school probation. • Write a letter to the Office of Student Support Services within three (3) school days after the date of the commission of the offense, recommending school probation, stating the charge(s) HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A13 • and the date(s) of any principal's conference(s). Ensure that the student's cumulative record is in order; forward the letter as well as a copy of the current report card, a copy of attendance records, current demographic information, all necessary documentation of the charge(s) and a copy of the suspension notice. b) Require the Office of Student Support Services to: • Receive and date the letter and accompanying information from the principal or take action upon direct recommendation of the superintendent. • Set the hearing date, time, and place and notify the student, the parent, and the principal. The hearing normally will be within ten (l0) school days after the date of the commission of the offense. o A Hearing Officer shall comply with the procedures as outlined under Expulsion. o The parent may elect to accept school probation and to waive the hearing by executing a written waiver. • Document the probationary status with the time, date, duration, and conditions. (Use Form HCS330-11.) Expulsion General a) Expulsion is defined as the withdrawal of the school attendance privilege for the remainder of any school semester or longer. b) If a student is suspended pending an expulsion hearing, the principal/delegate will follow the suspension policy and procedure and on the suspension notice form will suspend to the hearing panel; exceptions being disabled students. See above NOTE for suspension as to disabled students. c) When an expulsion offense is committed, the principal immediately must notify the Security Supervisor and the Office of Student Support Services. If the student is a disabled student, the Special Education Department also must be notified. d) If a suspected controlled substance is involved, HPD must be notified. Superintendent-Initiated Expulsion The Superintendent, if the situation warrants, may recommend that a student be expelled without prior recommendation from the principal. In such cases, the Superintendent will follow the PrincipalInitiated expulsion procedures. Principal-Initiated Expulsion The principal/delegate, after reviewing the allegations and evidence against a student, advising the student of the charge(s), and allowing the student to tell what occurred, is responsible initially for determining that an expulsion offense has been committed. A reasonable effort will be made to notify the parent. a) The principal will notify the Office of Student Support Services by letter of the recommendation for expulsion within three (3) school days after the date of the commission of the offense. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A14 b) At the same time, this letter must have attached the appropriate documentation which shall include all information available, including, but not limited to, the following: • Copy of the completed Suspension Notice, stating the charges in writing. • Specific description of the offense(s) committed, including date, time, and place and supporting facts. • A written report giving the suspected student's version of what occurred. • Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of persons involved in the incident: suspect(s), victim(s), and witness(es). • Signed and dated statement(s) of persons involved in the incident, if possible. (Use Form HCS330-39.) • Xerox copy of any contraband. • List of special program(s), if any, in which student is enrolled or being considered for enrollment. • Verification of student's receipt of the HCS Code of Student Conduct. • Past disciplinary record of student involved. • Academic record of student, including a copy of the current report card and a copy of the roll call card. • Details of extenuating circumstances. • Date(s) of principal's conference(s) and names of those present. Procedures for Hearings The hearing panel shall comply with the following procedures in conducting a hearing: a) The parent shall be given verbal or written notice of the charge(s) against the student and the time, date, and place of the hearing at least 72 hours prior to a hearing. The hearing panel will normally conduct a hearing within fourteen (14) school days after the date of the commission of the offense. b) The principal or other person assigned by the Office of Student Support Services shall present the case for expulsion of the student. Witnesses for the proponent of the expulsion will be notified to be present by the school or the Supervisor of Security. c) At the hearing, the hearing panel shall give the student an opportunity to admit or deny the charge(s). d) If the student denies the charge(s), an explanation of the evidence will be provided and the student will be given an opportunity to tell what occurred. e) The case may be presented by statements made by the witness(es). The hearing panel may permit witness(es) by the proponent of the expulsion and/or permit the student to present adult witnesses, but the hearing panel is not required to call or permit any accusers or witnesses to be present and the decision to do so shall rest in the discretion of the hearing panel. f) Ordinarily, no attorney will be present in an advisory capacity for the expulsion hearing. If the student's parent chooses to have an attorney present, the principal/delegate also may have an attorney present in an advisory capacity. The student's parent must give the hearing panel notice, 24 hours prior to the hearing, of the decision to have an attorney. Failure to do so may result in the hearing panel's denying the participation of the attorney in the hearing. g) After following the above procedures, the hearing panel, on the basis of all facts presented, shall HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A15 h) i) j) k) determine whether the student did or did not commit an offense, what offense, if any was committed and whether the recommendation of the principal to expel is accepted or overruled. The hearing panel shall prepare a written decision, which shall include the charges against the student; the time, date, and location of the hearing; a summary of the evidence presented at the hearing; the conclusions drawn from the evidence; and the disposition of the student. If extenuating or mitigating circumstances exist, the hearing panel shall document these circumstances. In the event that a disabled student is alleged to have committed an offense expellable under the HCS Code of Student Conduct, the hearing panel determines the guilt or innocence only. The decision regarding an appropriate placement is determined by the IEP Committee. The following persons shall be notified of the hearing decision: • The student's parent (by certified mail) • The Office of Student Support Services • The Principal • The Department of Special Education (for disabled students) • The Superintendent • The Superintendent over Student Support Services • The Security Supervisor A recording shall be made of the hearing and shall be kept for no less than six (6) months from the date of the hearing. The written record of the hearing shall be kept for two (2) years. Appeal of Hearing Decision For Expulsion If the student's parent is dissatisfied with the decision of the hearing panel in cases in which the hearing panel upholds the recommendation for expulsion, the parent may file an appeal. The appeal procedures are as follows: Superintendent Level a) The student's parent must file a written request for an appeal. b) The written request for an appeal must be addressed to and mailed or given to the Superintendent. c) The written request for an appeal must be postmarked or hand delivered on a date no more than seven (7) calendar days after the postmarked date or date of hand delivery of the written notification of the hearing decision. If the written request for an appeal is not made on time, the hearing decision will be final. d) The Superintendent, upon receipt of a timely filed written request for an appeal, will request the documented evidence of the case including the findings, the conclusions, the disposition, and the tape recording. e) The Superintendent or designee shall review the case of the basis of the record. No new evidence shall be admissible. f) Within seven (7) working days after receipt of the appeal, the Superintendent will make a written decision to adopt, modify, or disapprove all or any part of the hearing panel's findings, conclusions, and disposition. g) A copy of the Superintendent's decision shall be sent to the persons: HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A16 • • • • • • The student's parent (by certified mail) The Office of Student Support Services The Principal The Department of Special Education (for disabled student) The Superintendent's Office The Security Supervisor Board Level If after the hearing before the hearing panel and an appeal to the Superintendent, the parent is dissatisfied with the recommendation for expulsion, the parent may file an appeal to the Board of Education. a) The student's parent must file a written request for an appeal. b) The written request for an appeal must be addressed to and mailed or given to the Board of Education, with a copy to the Superintendent. c) The written request for an appeal must be postmarked or hand delivered on a date no more than seven (7) calendar days after the postmarked date or date of hand delivery of the written notification of the superintendent's decision. If the written request for an appeal is not made on time, the Superintendent's decision will be final. d) The Board, upon receipt of a timely filed written request for an appeal, shall set a hearing date. e) The Board shall render a decision based upon the evidence presented. f) The following persons shall be notified of the decision of the Board: • The student's parent (by certified mail) • The Office of Student Support Services • The Principal • The Superintendent • The Superintendent's Office • The Security Supervisor • The Department of Special Education (for disabled students) Procedure for: (1) Students in Alternative Placement OR (2) Students returning to school from expulsion or Alternative Placement If a student who has been expelled or allowed alternative placement in lieu of expulsion is charged with repeated Class II or a Class III offense, the following procedures apply: a) The student's parent or legal guardian will immediately be notified of the charge(s) against the student within two (2) school days. b) A hearing officer designated by the Office of Student Support Services will hear the charges against the student within two (2) school days. c) The principal or other person assigned by the Office of Student Support Services shall present the case for expulsion of the student. d) The hearing officer shall give the student an opportunity to admit or deny the charge(s). If the student denies the charge(s), an explanation of the evidence will be provided, and the student will HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A17 e) f) g) h) be given an opportunity to tell what occurred. The case may be presented by statements made by witness(s). The hearing officer may permit witness(s) by the proponent of the expulsion and/or permit the student to present witness(s), but the hearing officer is not required to call or permit any accusers or witnesses to be present, and the decision to do so shall rest in the discretion of the hearing officer. Ordinarily, no attorney will be present in an advisory capacity for the expulsion hearing. If the student's parent or guardian chooses to have an attorney present, the principal/designee also may have an attorney present in an advisory capacity. The student's parent must give the hearing office notice, 24 hours prior to hearing, of the decision to have an attorney. Failure to do so may result in the hearing officer's denying the participation of the attorney in the hearing. The hearing officer will determine whether the student is guilty of the offense(s) charged. A finding of guilty will result in the student being expelled. The decision of the hearing officer is final. No appeal is permitted. Regaining Good Standing First Offender Petition Purpose a) To encourage a student who is experiencing difficulties to change and improve in all aspects of school life. b) To give a student an opportunity to redefine his/her purpose and reasons for pursuing an education. c) To recommit his/her effort for learning and redeem his/her reputation for being a good person. Philosophy It is recognized that a student may at times make wrong choices or poor decisions. Students who experience problems may not have a fully-developed foundation of beliefs that values education and good behavior as important to success. The student may not recognize that success ultimately occurs as a result of developing cooperative and positive relationships with others, and focusing on obtaining purposeful and meaningful goals. A student who experiences difficulties must believe that he/she has an opportunity to improve and become a better person. Procedure for Students a) A student who was initially deemed as eligible to participate in school activities including field trips, clubs, athletic and other extracurricular activities or events and becomes ineligible to participate in school activities including field trips, clubs, athletic and other extracurricular events may be able to earn back specific privileges. It is the student's responsibility to take the initiative to secure a meeting with his/her counselor and fulfill the requirements of this opportunity. This opportunity will be afforded a student one time in the student's high school career. b) The student will meet with an administrative committee who will draft specific requirements, outline the conditions and standards for success, and determine if the student has met the requirements in order for the privileges to be reinstated. It will remain the student's responsibility to follow through with all assignments of the committee and to personally present all data in a timely manner. c) The student seeking to return to Good Standing is required to personally present evidence of HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A18 improvement and success in areas of personal responsibility and in all aspects of the educational process. Evidence will be provided by the student in the areas listed as follows: • Recognition of Student Mission - Provide a self-assessment and statement of purpose, goals, and intentions. • Respect for School Rules and School Property - Observe school rules pertaining to attendance and the HCS Code of Student Conduct. • Willingness to Learn - Present evidence of good academic standing in all subject areas. • Service to the Community - Perform community service determined by guidelines of the committee. • Demonstrate Emotional Well-being - Document meetings with school counselor or faculty advisor on a scheduled basis. Loss of Opportunity to Regain Good Standing Status 1. The student will be denied privileges as a result of loss of Good Standing Status if the student: Has in excess of ten (10) absences for any one semester during the current school year. Has been suspended Out-of-School during the current school year. Has been assigned to In-School Suspension for more than three separate incidents. Has been in violation of any Class III offense during the current school year. 2. The following privileges may be denied as a result of loss of Good Standing Status: • Field trips • Dances, including Homecoming and Prom • Extracurricular activities • Club or organization participation and events • Athletic participation and events • School-wide elections and honors 3. Procedure for Principals Advise the student and parent of the student's loss of status. Schedule a conference to sign the First Offender Petition. Document incident that led to loss of Good Standing status. Forward copies of student profile, contract and other documentation to the Office of Student Support Services. Send documentation of the fulfillment of the contract to the office of Student Support Services. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A19 APPENDIX B: STUDENT TRANSFERS Student transfers are accepted and awarded in accordance with HCS Board Policy. Each school year, the Office of Student Support Services accepts transfer applications online during a designated enrollment period for each type of transfer. The following definitions and conditions will apply in the context of this policy and only applications for the following reasons will be accepted provided space is available at the requested school. 1. Majority to Minority According to HCS Board Policy 6.3.1, a student attending a school in which the student's race is in the majority shall be permitted to choose to attend another school where the student's race is in the minority. 2. Dependents of School Personnel HCS employees may apply for his/her children to attend the school cluster in which the parent is employed when the child is a dependent of the employee. All applications must be submitted to the Office of Student Support Services. 3. Medical Only in exceptional circumstances will a request for transfer due to medical reasons be granted. Such request, which must include a physician's or clinical psychologist's substantiating statement, will be reviewed for action by the delegated Deputy Superintendent. In the event the transfer request is denied, an appeal may be made to the Superintendent. If the Superintendent deems necessary, the attendance of the student's physician or clinical psychologist will be requested. The decision of the Superintendent will be final. 4. Sibling of Special Education Student Brothers and/or sisters of special education students may be permitted to attend the school which is the assignment of the special education student. 5. Duration Students transferring to a school as provided in points 1 through 4 above will be assigned to a requested school. Only in exceptional circumstances as determined by the Superintendent or Deputy Superintendent will consideration be given for the student to transfer to a different school during the school year if a transfer has already been given for or within that year. 6. Accessibility When necessary to provide a handicapped student accessibility to a program, the Superintendent may assign the student to an accessible school outside the student's attendance zone. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A20 APPENDIX C: ADMISSION TO SCHOOLS Enrollment in Huntsville City Schools shall be in accordance with the following requirements: 1. Resident Students School-age children who reside within the municipal limits of the City of Huntsville, Alabama may be admitted to Huntsville City Schools. For the purposes of this policy, the residence of the student will be the residence of the parent or legal guardian who has primary custody. a) Kindergarten Enrollment - Students entering kindergarten must be five (5) years old on or before September 1 of the year entering. Proof of age is required. Parents are requested to provide either an original or a certified copy of the student's birth certificate. If a student has no such certificate, school personnel will provide information to parents or guardians concerning the submission of documentation. Pupils who are five (5) years of age after September 1 and prior to January 1 and who move to Huntsville during the school year may be accepted in kindergarten provided they are properly certified as having been enrolled in a public kindergarten in the state from which they came. Such students, however, will not automatically be accepted in the kindergarten program. Final placement will be made on the basis of test scores, performance, and/or demonstrated ability. b) First Grade Enrollment – Students entering the first grade must be six (6) years old on or before September 1 of the year entering. Proof of age is required. Parents are requested to provide either an original or a certified copy of the student's birth certificate. If a student has no such certificate, school personnel will provide information to parents or guardians concerning the submission of documentation. Students who are six (6) years old after September I and who have successfully completed public kindergarten in another state and who have been certified to attend first grade in that state may be accepted in first grade. Such students, however, will not automatically be accepted in first grade. Final grade placement will be made on the basis of test scores, performance, and/or demonstrated ability. Students who are six (6) years old after September I and prior to January I and who attended a private school for the first grade may be accepted in the second grade provided the student has successfully completed first grade. Such students, however, will not automatically be accepted in the second grade. Final grade placement will be made on the basis of test scores, performance, and/or demonstrated ability. 2. Students Transferring from Another School or School System Students transferring from school systems outside HCS or from private or parochial schools shall not be eligible for enrollment if they are under suspension or expulsion. Upon the clearance of the suspension or expulsion and eligibility for readmission to their former school, the student shall be HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A21 eligible to enroll in HCS if other requirements of this policy are met. 3. Students Transferring from Another State Students who move to Huntsville after having attended public schools in another state may be admitted to the grade certified by the school from which they are moving. (HCS respects the state laws of the 50 states in regard to the certified grade level of students entering HCS from out-of-state schools.) 4. Students Residing Outside the City Limits Students whose parents are employed by HCS and who live outside of the city limits may attend the HCS provided a transfer is approved in the same school cluster their parents are employed. Tuition is set for these students by the HCS Board of Education. The enrollment will be based on space availability. 5. Immunizations According to Alabama Code Sections 16-3-3 and 16-3-4, up-to-date immunizations are required by state law for all students entering HCS. 6. Immigrant, Limited English Proficiency (LEP), Migrant, or Homeless Students HCS seeks to provide students with immediate access to public education regardless of their immigrant, LEP, migrant, or homeless status as well as their inability to immediately produce required documents. School personnel will provide the proper assistance in obtaining documents. The Superintendent may accept alternate forms of evidence or modify otherwise applicable requirements as necessary and appropriate to accommodate immigrant, LEP, migrant, or homeless students. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A22 APPENDIX D: INTERNET SAFETY (STUDENTS) The HCS Board of Education encourages and supports the welfare and safety of all users when using the internet in all subjects and all facets of curriculum (written, taught, tested). The term "safety" of the internet, applies to the use of accepted internet etiquette and compliance with all legal and basic ethical constraints. 1. Prohibited Uses of Network Among the uses considered unacceptable and which constitute a violation of these procedures are the following: a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j) k) l) Use of the network for non-educational communication. Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law. Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. Use of the computer network or the Internet to gain unauthorized access. Uses that violate state or federal law relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, or that violate any other applicable law or municipal ordinance. Uses that jeopardize the security of student access and of the computer network or other networks on the internet. Uses that are commercial transactions. Installation of software or downloading of unauthorized files, viruses, games, programs, or other electronic media. Plagiarizing or using internet resources for school assignments without citing references. Access of another user's work, folders, or files. Viewing, sending, or displaying obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, disrespectful, threatening, or inflammatory language, messages, or pictures. Connecting to networks which are outside of HCS measures of control or which violate blocked or filtered media and websites, both during school hours and/or on school system premises is strictly prohibited. IF A STUDENT ACCESSES A SITE CONTAINING INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL, THE STUDENT MUST IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY THE TEACHER OR AN ADMINISTRATOR. 2. Internet Safety a) General Warning: All users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school- aged students. Each user must take responsibility for his or her use of the computer network and internet and stay away from these sites. If a student finds that other users are visiting offensive or harmful sites, he/she should report such use to the teacher. b) Confidentiality of Student Information: Personally identifiable information concerning students may not be disclosed or used in any way on the internet without the permission of a teacher or administrator. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A23 3. Personal Safety a) Be safe at all times. In using the computer network and internet, do not reveal personal information such as your home address or telephone number, private or confidential information about yourself or others on the internet. b) Students will not give anyone on the internet information about themselves or anyone else. This includes any of the following information: First and Last Name School Name School Mascot, Sport Team Names, or Affiliations Home Telephone Number Home Address (any part of) Parent's name(s) Age or Birthday (with year) Credit Card Numbers and Social Security numbers (in combination or alone) c) Do not arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone you "meet" on the computer network or internet without your teacher’s and parent's permission (if you are under 18). d) Do not share photos of yourself, your family, or your home with people you meet online without prior permission from the supervising teacher or school administrator. e) Do not give out internet passwords to anyone other than parents or teachers. 4. Internet Filtering Filtering software will be utilized to help prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to minors. A supervising teacher or school administrator, as necessary, for purposes of bona fide research or other educational projects may request internet filtering be disabled. Filtering will help provide the following: a) Safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct communication. b) Unauthorized access, including "hacking" and other unlawful activities regarding minors online. c) Unauthorized disclosures, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors. 5. Privacy Network and internet access is provided as a tool for your education. HCS reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review, and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of HCS and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials. 6. Failure to Follow Procedures The use of the computer network and internet is a privilege, not a right. A user, who violates these procedures, shall at a minimum, have his or her access to the computer network and internet terminated. HCS may refuse to reinstate access for the remainder of the student's enrollment in HCS. A user violating these procedures by his/her own action or by failing to report any violations by other HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A24 users will be denied access to the network. Furthermore, a user violates these procedures if he/she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. HCS may take other disciplinary action in such circumstances. 7. Warranties/Indemnification HCS makes no warranties of any kind, either express or implied, in connection with its provision of access to and use of its computer networks and the internet provided under these procedures. It shall not be responsible for any claims, losses, damages or costs (including attorney's fees) of any kind suffered, directly or indirectly, by any user or his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) arising out of the user's use of its computer networks or the internet under these procedures. By signing this handbook, users are taking full responsibility for his or her use, and the user who is 18 or older or, in the case of a user under 18, the parent(s) or guardian(s) are agreeing to indemnify and hold the School, the School District, the Data Acquisition Site that provides the computer and Internet access opportunity to the School District and all of their administrators, teachers, and staff harmless from any and all loss, costs, claims, or damages resulting from the user's access to its computer network and the internet, including but not limited to any fees or charges incurred through purchases of goods or services by the user. The user or, if the user is a minor, the user's parent(s) or guardian(s) agree to cooperate with the school in the event of the School’s initiating an investigation of a user's use of his or her access to its computer network and the internet, whether that use is on a school computer or on another computer outside the HCS network. Any illegal or inappropriate use of the internet not specifically stated above is prohibited. HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Page A25 APPENDIX E: ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS From Alabama Administrative Code 290-3-1-02(8)(a): “Effective for students in the ninth grade in the 2013-2014 school year, all students shall earn the required credits for the Alabama High School Diploma. A local board of education may establish requirements for receipt of diplomas and endorsements, but any diploma or endorsement shall include the requirements of the Alabama High School Diploma. The Alabama courses of study shall be followed in determining minimum required content in each discipline.” COURSE REQUIREMENTS Four (4) credits to include: English 9 English Language Arts English 10 English 11 English 12 Equivalent options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary English Language Arts Total Credits Three (3) credits to include: Algebra I or its equivalent Geometry or its equivalent Algebra III w/ Trigonometry or Algebra II or its equivalent Mathematics One (1) credit from: Alabama Course of Study; Mathematics or Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary equivalent courses Mathematics Total Credits Two (2) credits to include: Biology A physical science (Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science) Two (2) credits from: Science Alabama Course of Study; Science or Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary equivalent courses Science Total Credits Four (4) credits to include: World History United States History I Social Studies United States History II United States Government Economics Equivalent options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary Social Studies Total Credits Physical Education Health Education Career Preparedness Career and Technical Education and/or Foreign Language and/or Arts Education Electives (Local boards shall offer foreign languages, arts education, physical education, wellness education, career and technical education, and driver education as electives) HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook (SS-M1-R1) Credits 1 1 1 1 4 Credits 1 1 1 1 4 Credits 1 1 2 4 Credits 1 1 1 0.5 0.5 4 1 0.5 1 3 2.5 Page A26 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I, enrolled in Student Name (please print) and my School Name (please print) parent(s)/guardian(s) hereby acknowledge by our signature that we have received, read, and discussed the HCS Official Student-Parent Handbook and the HCS Code of Student Conduct. After you have reviewed the Handbook, please detach, sign, and return this Acknowledgement to the school. Your signature notifies the school that you have received, read, and discussed the Handbook with your child. Student Signature: Date: Parent/Guardian Signature: Date: Parent/Guardian Signature: Date: We look forward to a productive and rewarding year.
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