Staff Handbook - Thornton High School
THORNTON HIGH SCHOOL
STAFF HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Thornton High School
9351 North Washington Street
Thornton, CO 80229
www.thorntonh.adams12.org
Phone: (720) 972-4800
Fax: (720) 972-4999
1
Table of Contents
Board of Education, Thornton High School Administration and Staff ......................... 7
Thornton High School Mission..................................................................................... 6
International Baccalaureate........................................................................................... 9
Academic Letter ......................................................................................................... 10
Adams 12 District Board Policies ............................................................................... 10
Announcements .......................................................................................................... 12
Assemblies .................................................................................................................. 12
Assessment Schedule .................................................................................................. 12
Athletics...................................................................................................................... 13
Attendance Guidelines, Perfect ................................................................................... 14
Auditorium Rules ....................................................................................................... 17
Book Depository ......................................................................................................... 17
Building Committees .................................................................................................. 17
Campus Supervisors ................................................................................................... 21
Child Abuse ................................................................................................................ 21
Classified Attendance Procedures............................................................................... 21
Closed/Open Campus ................................................................................................. 23
Clubs........................................................................................................................... 23
Communication .......................................................................................................... 23
Crisis Team ................................................................................................................. 23
CSEA Building Representative................................................................................... 24
Dances ........................................................................................................................ 24
Dean’s Office.............................................................................................................. 25
Department Chairs ...................................................................................................... 25
Department Meetings.................................................................................................. 25
Discipline.................................................................................................................... 25
DTEA Building Reps.................................................................................................. 26
Duty Days ................................................................................................................... 26
Eligibility/Exporting Grades ....................................................................................... 26
Email .......................................................................................................................... 26
Emancipated Students................................................................................................. 26
Emergency Closing..................................................................................................... 27
Emergency Procedures ............................................................................................... 27
Faxes ........................................................................................................................... 30
Fees............................................................................................................................. 30
Field Trip Policy ......................................................................................................... 30
2
Finals & Final Exams ................................................................................................. 31
Financial Services ....................................................................................................... 31
Five Star Diploma ....................................................................................................... 32
Food and Drink Policy ................................................................................................ 32
Fundraisers ................................................................................................................. 33
Grade Levels and Reclassification .............................................................................. 33
Grading Policy ............................................................................................................ 33
Grade Replacement..................................................................................................... 33
Grade Reporting ......................................................................................................... 34
Grades and Grade Books ............................................................................................ 34
Grading Timelines ...................................................................................................... 34
Graduation Requirements ........................................................................................... 35
Guest Speakers ........................................................................................................... 35
Guidance/Counseling Services ................................................................................... 35
Hall Passes .................................................................................................................. 36
Harassment/Hazing/Bullying ...................................................................................... 36
Health Services ........................................................................................................... 36
Homework/Make-up Work ......................................................................................... 41
Honor Roll .................................................................................................................. 41
Interventions: Parents ................................................................................................. 42
Interventions: In-School Suspension; Alternative to Suspension; PBS ...................... 42
Keys ............................................................................................................................ 42
Laminating .................................................................................................................. 42
Leaving Campus (Students) During School Hours ..................................................... 42
Leave: Professional; Temporary; Jury ........................................................................ 43
Library Media Center ................................................................................................. 43
Lunches ...................................................................................................................... 45
Mailing/Shipping ........................................................................................................ 45
Maintenance Requests ................................................................................................ 46
Master Calendar.......................................................................................................... 46
Movies ........................................................................................................................ 46
Newsletter ................................................................................................................... 46
Office Hours ............................................................................................................... 46
Parent/Teacher Conferences ....................................................................................... 46
Parking........................................................................................................................ 46
Participation in Graduation Ceremony ....................................................................... 46
Plagiarism/Cheating.................................................................................................... 47
3
Professional Enrichment Fund .................................................................................... 47
Report Cards ............................................................................................................... 47
Removal of students from class .................................................................................. 47
Religious/Cultural Issues ............................................................................................ 47
Room Assignments ..................................................................................................... 47
School Improvement Team ......................................................................................... 47
Search & Seizure ........................................................................................................ 48
Shared Decision Making............................................................................................. 50
Special Education ....................................................................................................... 50
Stereo/Sound Systems ................................................................................................ 51
Student Commons....................................................................................................... 51
Student/Staff ID Cards ................................................................................................ 51
Student Progress: Superintended Policy 5124 ............................................................ 51
Student Records .......................................................................................................... 51
Supervision ................................................................................................................. 52
Surveys ....................................................................................................................... 52
Syllabus/Cover Sheet .................................................................................................. 52
Take Your Child to Work Day ................................................................................... 53
Teacher/Student Assistants ......................................................................................... 53
Telephone/Emergency Messages ................................................................................ 53
Temporary Leaves ...................................................................................................... 54
Thornton Leadership Council ..................................................................................... 54
Tobacco Use ............................................................................................................... 54
Valedictorian/Salutatorian and Class Rank ................................................................. 54
Valuables .................................................................................................................... 55
Van Usage .................................................................................................................. 55
Visitors ....................................................................................................................... 73
Work Week ................................................................................................................. 55
4
Appendix
Computer/Technology Checklist ................................................................................ 56
District Policies and Information
About This Document................................................................................................. 57
Appeals or Grievances ................................................................................................ 58
Asbestos Notification.................................................................................................. 58
Assessments ................................................................................................................ 58
Attendance .................................................................................................................. 58
Bullying ...................................................................................................................... 59
Cell Phones and Personal Electronic Devices ............................................................. 59
Community Use of District-Owned Facilities............................................................. 60
Corporal Punishments, Restraint or Physical Force .................................................... 60
Extracurricular Activities ............................................................................................ 60
Gangs, Secret Societies and Disruptive Groups .......................................................... 61
Health Services ........................................................................................................... 62
Homeless Students Notification.................................................................................. 62
Identification (I.D.) Badges ........................................................................................ 51
Law Enforcement ....................................................................................................... 60
Obtaining Sex Offender Information .......................................................................... 66
Parking and Driving on District Property ................................................................... 67
Post-Secondary Enrollment Options ........................................................................... 67
Removal of Disruptive Students by a Classroom Teachers ........................................ 67
Search and Seizure...................................................................................................... 67
Services for Students with Disabilities ....................................................................... 68
Student Conduct, Discipline and Due Process ............................................................ 68
Student Dress Code .................................................................................................... 69
Students’ Right to Expression..................................................................................... 70
Student School Records .............................................................................................. 70
Translation Services.................................................................................................... 72
Video and Audio Monitoring...................................................................................... 72
Visitors to Schools ...................................................................................................... 73
Weapons ..................................................................................................................... 73
5
THS Vision
Thornton High will be a high performing school that provides a continuum
of learning for IB students along the Thornton corridor, THS will provide
an environment that promotes:
*Authentic Curriculum
*Personalization
*Democratic Decision-Making
THS MISSION
TOTAL COMMITMENT to
HIGH ACHIEVEMENT and
SUCCESS FOR ALL!
THS BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT MISSION FOR STUDENTS
TAKE RESPONSIBILITY to
HONOR EACH OTHER and
STRIVE FOR SUCCESS
6
Adams Twelve Five Star Schools
Superintendent Chris Gdowski
Board of Education
President- Mr. Mark D. Clark
Vice President-Mr. Norman L. Jennings
Secretary-Mr. R. Max Willsey
Director- Mr. Rico L. Figueroa
Director – Ms. Kathy D. Plomer
Administration
Principal
Asst Principal
Asst Principal
Asst Principal
Johnny Terrell
TBD
Michael Pettersch
Daniel Troxell
Deans
Discipline
Attendance
Adam Martin
TBD
Student Services
Bookkeeper
Computer Systems Coordinator
Health Aide
Library
Office Manager
Psychologist
School Resource Officer
Registrar/Records
Counselors
Department Chair
Core House Counselors
9th/10th grade
11/12 grade last name A-F
11/12 grade last name G-O
11/12 grade last name P-Z
IB/MYP Counselor (9th – 12th)
Reclassified Students
Community Reach Mental Health
4803
4806
4805
4840
4844
4808
Janet Frazier
Ricardo Alvarez
Regina Trujillo
Kristen McCloskey
Valerie Forbes
Sheryl Doll
Officer Dodenhoeft
Gail Stech
4830
4863
4819
4854
4801
4864
4832
4821
Shari Watters
4828
Floyd, Schieffelin, Jennie, and Watters 4825
Stephanie Floyd
Zennia Jennie
Tammi Schieffelin
Patty Rolison
Chad Elder
Jackie Reitsma
4826
2813
4827
4875
4828
4825
Calendar activities and events published may not represent a total listing due to changes, deletions and
additions that may occur throughout the year. Please listen to daily announcements and consult the monthly
newsletters for updates. In addition to the policies noted in this handbook, all Superintendent and Board
policies should be utilized and reviewed. They are accessible through the district website.
*Superintendent and Board policies are subject to change as necessary at anytime during the school year.
7
Thornton High School Mission:
Total Commitment to
High Achievement and
Success For All!
THORNTON HIGH SCHOOL
COMMUNICATION AGREEMENT
We agree to
• ask for help
• be clear about our concerns
• listen and understand the speaker’s message
• carry through with our stated responsibilities
• believe other people’s messages/views are real for them
• encourage others to go to the appropriate person with ideas/concerns
• set up a communication structure for the school that is known by all
members of the school community
• be respectful
• work together to meet challenges
• choose a method of communication that is appropriate to the message
• and, be loyal to absent colleagues
…in a way that…
• builds our relationships
• works to find a win/win outcome
• keeps a disagreement problem-based
• blame is diminished
• keeps the well-being of students first
• acknowledges that all parties have the same educational goal
• supports/upholds the THS vision statement
• and, creates a shared solution
8
Adams 12 Five Star School
District
International Baccalaureate
Continuum
Primary Years Programme
Coronado Hills Elementary
McElwain Elementary
Thornton Elementary
Leroy Drive Elementary
Middle Years Programme
Century Middle School
Thornton Middle School
Diploma Programme
Thornton High School
Students are welcome and encouraged to join the program at any time. For detailed program
information please refer to www.ibo.org
What is the IB Middle Years Program?
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Program is designed to help students find a sense of
belonging in the ever-changing and increasingly interrelated world around them and to foster a positive
attitude to learning. The overall philosophy of the program is expressed through three fundamental
concepts that support and strengthen all areas of the curriculum, assessment and community and service
requirements. These concepts are based on: intercultural awareness, holistic learning and
communication.
The MYP, for students aged 11 to 16, provides a framework of academic challenge that encourages
students to embrace and understand the connections between traditional subjects and the real world,
and become critical and reflective thinkers. Century Middle School and Thornton High School have been
MYP authorized IB World Schools since 2001. Taken as a whole, the curriculum provides a balanced
education that will equip young people for effective participation in the modern world; whether or not
they continue their IB education in the Diploma Program (grades 11 and 12 at THS.)
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ACADEMIC LETTER
Students who take at least six classes and maintain a grade point average of 3.7 for three consecutive quarters
will receive an Academic Letter. Academic letters will be presented during the Fall and Spring Academic
Awards Ceremonies.
ADAMS 12 FIVE STAR SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD POLICIES and SUPERINTENDENT
POLICIES
Listed below are our school district’s School Board Policies. These policies can be accessed on the Adams 12
website. All district employees are responsible for operating with the policies in the outline below:
1.0 General Ends Policy
1.1 Schooling
1.1.1 Preschool & Elementary
1.1.2 Middle School
1.1.3 High School and Transition Services
1.2 Graduates
1.2.1 Dropouts
1.3 Value
1.4 Schooling - Aspirations
2.0 General Operating Limitations Policy
2.05 Schooling
2.1 Treatment of Students, Their Families and Community Members
2.2 Treatment of Staff
2.3 Financial Planning and Budgeting
2.4 Financial Condition and Activities
2.5 Asset Protection
2.6 Employment, Compensation and Benefits
2.7 Communication and Support to the Board
2.8 Management Planning
2.9 Charter Schools
2.10 Effective Family, School and Community Partnering
3.0 General Board Relationships Policy
3.1 Unity of Control
3.2 Accountability of the Superintendent
3.3 Delegation to the Superintendent
3.4 Monitoring Superintendent Performance
3.5 Accountability of Charter Schools
4.0 General Governance Process Policy
4.1 Governing Style
4.2 Board Job Description
4.3 Agenda Planning
4.4 President's Role
4.5 Board Members' Code of Conduct
4.6 Board Committee Principles
4.7 Cost of Governance
4.8 Monitoring of Board Governance policies
4.9 Platform
4.10 Conferring of an Honorary Diploma
Superintendent Policies can be found on the Adams12
http://www.adams12.org/superintendent_policies?quicklink
10
website
or
by the
following
link:
2.1 TREATMENT OF STUDENTS, THEIR FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS
With respect to interactions with students, those applying to be students, their families and community
members, the Superintendent shall not cause or allow conditions, practices, procedures, activities or
decisions which are unsafe, undignified, uncaring or unnecessarily intrusive or restrictive.
Further, without limiting the scope of the foregoing by this enumeration, the Superintendent shall not:
1. Fail to provide reasonable, timely responses to inquiries and information to students and their
families of what may be expected and what may not be expected from all services offered by
the District, including academic courses and programs (especially specific course syllabi),
sports and extracurricular programs, transportation and parking services, health and nutritional
products and services, and special programs.
2. Fail to promptly inform students and their families of unsatisfactory work and/or performance
in a timeframe that allows for corrective action. Unsatisfactory work or performance includes
but is not limited to:
a. Students not meeting class/course objectives and expectations
b. Students not meeting their highest potential; and
c. Students not meeting Ends requirements.
3. Use any method of discipline for student behavior or dress that is unclear, untimely or
inconsistently applied.
4. Allow assessments at the district or school levels or grading standard within an individual
course or class that: (a) is inconsistently applied to students of similar demonstrated ability
level; (b) has not provided for sufficient prior notice of weighting or importance, or preparation
time; (c) is not based solely upon demonstrated student progress and achievement of reasonable
and clear standards; (d) for group projects, does not separate group performance criteria from
individual criteria; (e) is not provided in a timely manner to students and their
parents/guardians; and (f) does not motivate students to persist in assignments.
5. Fail to operate facilities safely and with equitable internal and external accessibility to students,
their families and community members.
6. Operate without written rules which: (a) reasonably specify district and building expectations,
standards & procedures, (b) provide for effective resolution of complaints, concerns and
grievances, and (c) protect against wrongful conditions and disparate treatment for
inappropriate reasons.
7. Retaliate against any student or family member for non-disruptive expression of dissent or
concern.
8. Prevent students, families or community members from being heard by the Board when internal
hearing procedures have been exhausted and the person alleges that Board policy has been
violated to his or her detriment.
9. Fail to establish an effective, efficient and user friendly ongoing communication system for families.
10. Fail to establish effective systems to address parental concerns.
11. Fail to meaningfully include students and families in the counseling process through an effective system of
communication and engagement.
2.2 TREATMENT OF STAFF
With respect to the treatment of paid and volunteer staff, the Superintendent may not cause or allow
conditions which are unsafe, undignified, disorganized, or unclear.
Further, without limiting the scope of the foregoing by this enumeration, he or she shall not:
1. Operate without written personnel rules which: (a) clarify rules for staff, (b) provide for effective
handling of grievances, and (c) protect against wrongful conditions, such as nepotism and
preferential treatment for personal reasons.
2. Retaliate against any staff member for non-disruptive expression of dissent.
3. Prevent staff from grieving to the Board when (a) internal grievance procedures have been
exhausted and (b) the employee alleges that Board policy has been violated to his or her detriment.
4. Fail to acquaint staff with the Superintendent’s interpretation of their protections under this
policy.
Advisors
THS staff will provide supports for all students through supervision or duty assignments. Each year
assignments will support the major improvement strategies outlined in the UIP. Administrative staff will notify
teachers of their supervision or duty assignments during August In-service.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS—See Communication
ASSEMBLIES
Student assemblies are held periodically to recognize student and/or staff accomplishments, share information
and to present awards. Teachers are expected to attend and help supervise assemblies while sitting among
students.
All assemblies held in the auditorium or gymnasium need to be organized far in advance. Assemblies will be
held between second and third periods. Students will be expected to attend assemblies.
Thornton High School Summative Assessment Retake Policy
First and second semester final exams ARE NOT eligible for retake
A student is allowed to retake any summative assessment up to ten (school) days after the original summative
has been graded and communicated to the student. After the days, the eligibility for retake will expire unless
arrangements have been made with the teacher. All retakes will be for full credit
On the first retake, the student does not need to provide evidence of learning. Any subsequent retake during the
10-day period will require a body of evidence of learning as determined by the teacher. The teacher must allow
a reasonable period of time for student completion of the body of evidence.
It’s a best practice to offer a summative assessment after three or four formative assessments. A score MUST
be recorded for every assessment, and no score will be less than 50%. The cumulative grade should at all times
match the students’ proficiency level. The minimum grade scale is 80% summative and 20% formative.
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ATHLETICS
Coaching
The coaching philosophy at Thornton High School follows that of the Colorado High School Activities
Association Code of Ethics:
In order to be of maximum effectiveness in serving and fostering the education of the students entrusted to
us and in promoting and supplementing the regular curriculum, it is the duty of all concerned with our
secondary athletic and activities program to:
Cultivate awareness that participation in athletics and activities is part of the total educational process and
as such, the coach/advisor should neither seek nor expect academic privileges for the participants.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Emphasize the proper ideals of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and fair play as they relate to the
lifetime impact on the participants.
Develop a working awareness and under-standing of all rules and guidelines governing competition,
both in letter and intent.
Recognize that the purpose of athletics and activities is to promote the physical, mental, moral,
social, and emotional wellbeing of the individual participants.
Avoid any practice or technique which would endanger the present or future welfare or safety of any
participant.
Adhere to policies which do not enforce or encourage students to specialize or restrict them from
participation in a variety of activities.
Refuse to disparage an opponent, an official, an administrator or spectator in any aspect of the
activity.
Strongly encourage the development of proper health habits, including the non-use of chemicals,
alcohol, tobacco and other mood-altering substances.
Exemplify proper self control at all times, accepting adverse decisions without public display of
emotion or of dissatisfaction with officials or judges.
Encourage all to judge the true success of the athletic and activities programs on the basis of the
attitude of the participants and spectators, rather than on the basis of a win or loss.
Fall Sports
Winter Sports
Spring Sports
Cross Country (boys)
Basketball (boys)
Baseball
Cross Country (girls)
Basketball (girls
Golf (girls)
Football
Co-Op Swimming (girls)
Soccer (girls)
Co-Op Golf (boys)
Wrestling
Tennis (girls)
Co-Op Gymnastics
Track (boys)
Soccer (boys)
Track (girls)
Tennis (boys)
Swimming (boys)
Volleyball
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ATTENDANCE, GUIDELINES, PERFECT, ETC.
Attendance Philosophy & Goals
Regular participation in the educational program is expected of all students. Regular school attendance is the
single most important determining factor in student achievement and success. Attendance is primarily the
responsibility of the students and the parents.
State Law C.R. S. 22-33-104 and Article IX, Section 2 of the Colorado State Constitution, specify the
responsibility of the school district and its staff to provide compulsory school attendance procedures. This law
states that every secondary school student under the age of 17 shall attend school for at least 1,056 hours during
each school year. Exceptions are those who are ill, injured, suspended, expelled, or whose absence is approved
by the administration. The law also directs the Board of Education to adopt a written policy regarding the
District’s Attendance Policy.
Superintendent Policy Code 5020 meets the Colorado State Compulsory Education Law by stating all children
between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) must enroll in and attend school. A student that has four (4)
unexcused absences in one (1) month or ten (10) unexcused absences in a calendar year is considered
habitually truant. If school and/or district intervention efforts fail, sanctions for habitual truancy may include
a referral to the Truancy Court of the 17th Judicial District and/or a referral to a social service agency.
In accordance with the law, Superintendent Policy 5020 also clearly outlines student, parent and administrative
responsibilities regarding student attendance. Student and parent responsibilities are included in the booklet,
Welcome to Thornton High School.
A consistent effort by our students, our parents and community, and our staff to reduce student absences is
critical for several reasons.
•
Frequent absences of students from regular classroom learning experiences disrupt the continuity of
the instructional process for all students in class.
•
Class discussions and interactions among students and teachers are lost and cannot be entirely
regained, even by extra after-school instruction.
•
Students who miss school frequently experience great difficulty in achieving the maximum benefits
of education.
•
The regular contact of students with one another in the classroom and their participation in the
education process are fundamental requirements of a sound educational program.
In order to maximize academic achievement, students must attend class daily. Thornton High School
believes that students are responsible for their actions. We also understand that parents/guardians need to
be kept informed about their students. Because of the aforementioned beliefs we have implemented the
following attendance policies:
Student Responsibility
The student’s responsibility is to attend school for all the days of the established School District No. 12 School
Calendar. The student needs to appear in class on time, prepared for academic endeavor. The student should
contact his/her teachers immediately upon return from absences to arrange to complete all make-up work
assigned, and establish when this make-up work shall be completed. All assigned work needs to be completed
in an acceptable manner. The work should be completed as assigned by the teacher when a prearranged
absence is requested. The student should also follow the established school procedure(s) when enrolling in or
withdrawing from class. No early finals will be given at the end of the school year. Students are expected
to attend school through the very last day.
Parent/Guardian Responsibility
Parents/guardians need to recognize that any absence, regardless of cause, may have a detrimental
influence on student achievement. Success in learning is strongly linked to regular attendance and
appropriate participation in educational programs. It is crucial that children develop habits of regular
attendance at an early age. Poor attendance puts students at risk of not achieving their educational, social
14
or psychological potential, which places them at a disadvantage in the quality of choices later in life. For
these reasons please:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Schedule appointments for students after 3:00 p.m., or when there is no school.
Call within 48 hours to excuse their student’s absence. They should also be ready to present
documentation regarding the absence. Any absence reported after two school days needs to be
accompanied with documentation from a doctor’s office or legal notice.
For prearranged absences, it is up to the parents and students to get prior approval from the school.
Parents may excuse up to 5 absences per quarter without official documentation.
Monitor the student’s attendance to ensure that the student is not excessively absent from school.
Computer access will be given to parents in order to check student attendance and class progress.
Maintain communication with his/her student regarding attendance and monitor the assigned makeup work of a student who has missed class and in the case of extended home confinement, request
make up assignments.
Contact the school and request a conference with the appropriate dean upon notification from the
school of an attendance concern.
Work cooperatively with the teacher and administrative personnel to resolve attendance concerns.
Ensure compliance with the compulsory attendance statute in all cases.
Teacher Responsibility
The teacher’s responsibility in regards to a student’s attendance is to maintain accurate daily attendance records
and to record into Infinite Campus within the first 15 minutes of each period per the guidelines established in
the school. The teacher needs to support and administer the make-up work procedures for excused classes in a
fair and timely manner to allow students the opportunity for completion of work. The teacher will notify
parents after a student’s 4th unexcused absence from class. The teacher will participate, as necessary, in
conferences to address attendance concerns. The teachers will also aid the deans and counselors who are
dealing with attendance and academic issues. The teacher will furthermore provide positive recognition to
students who attend school regularly.
Counselor Responsibility
The counselor will aid the administrator who is handling the attendance issues of students; help in providing
assistance to students who have been identified as having attendance problems; and provide positive recognition
to students who attend school on a regular basis. Options for students who are not experiencing academic
success will be provided. The counselor and dean will monitor students’ unexcused and excessive excused
absences, and contact students in accordance with the school policy when students are not meeting school
requirements, are in jeopardy of not graduating, or are falling behind in credits in their grade level. Meetings
will be documented into Infinite Campus. The counselor will check the student’s schedule and make sure it is
academically appropriate and help the student understand the ramifications of further absences.
Administrator/Dean Responsibility
The Administrators/Deans will develop, with staff and community input, a comprehensive building attendance
policy. The Administrators/Deans will supervise the attendance policy and procedures. This will include
monitoring individual attendance to ensure implementation of procedures developed in accordance with
Superintendent Policy 5020. The parents or guardians, and student will be provided information about the
school and district attendance policy and procedures, as well as information about their student’s attendance
record when requested. The school will require from parents, guardians or legal custodians written
acknowledgment of having received school and district attendance policies/procedures. The Administrators/
Deans will approve or disapprove reasons for absences and follow through on consequences for unexcused
absences and excessive excused absences. Assistance will be provided to students who have been identified as
having attendance problems and positive recognition will be given to students who attend school on a regular
basis. The Administrators/Deans will also file a copy of the school’s attendance policy and procedures with the
Superintendent or designee.
The Deans will work with the Attendance Advisors to complete a Truancy Assessment with students when they
accumulate 12 unexcused period absences or by 8 unexcused days in a calendar year to create an attendance
intervention plan. The attendance intervention plan/contract will include consequences and support to help the
student improve. If the stipulations of the plan are not met, students may be assigned school level discipline
and/or directed to a district attendance hearing for further disciplinary action.
This attendance policy also addresses students who are excessively absent from class. If a student accrues 5
excused (or a combination of excused/unexcused) absences in a quarter, further absences will only be excused
15
by the student’s Dean. The parents/guardians will need to provide legal documentation or doctor’s note to
excuse any further absences.
The Thornton High School Attendance Policy is designed to accomplish the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Encourage completion of high school by all students.
Develop good attendance as a lifetime habit.
Make school a place where students want to be.
Increase potential for academic success for all students.
Encourage and reward a high rate of student attendance while accommodating legitimate, authorized
absences.
6. Promote student responsibility for contributions to classroom activities.
7. Maximize effective use of staff’s time by minimizing:
a. Instructional repetition
b. Planning time spent on make-up work
c. Classroom disruption to deal with attendance/ tardy procedures
e. Time spent in notification process
8. Implement prevention and intervention strategies that help students who are chronic non-attendees to take
positive action to correct this behavior and accept the consequences of excessive absenteeism.
Attendance Policy
The following policy is based on UNEXCUSED ABSENCES ON A QUARTER BY QUARTER BASIS:
1. All students and parents/guardians shall sign a Thornton High School Attendance Agreement upon
enrollment.
2. At the beginning of the term, teachers will inform students and parents/guardians of policies regarding
absences and tardies in a syllabus of classroom expectations. Students and parents/guardians will sign an
acknowledgment of their understanding of classroom policies.
3. At a student’s 12th unexcused period absence the attendance advisor will conference with student to
complete a Trojan Truancy Assessment and contact parent. Also, they will notify any staff necessary based on
results of Truancy Assessment. (sped, ELL, counselor, trusted adult)
4. At the 24th unexcused period absence the advisor will send a Notice of Concern postcard, place student on a
Weekly Attendance Progress Report and assign an Attendance Concern ID.
5. At the 48th unexcused period absence the advisor will send a Notice of Required Attendance Conference and
notify dean/administrator who will place the student on an attendance contract which will include a Daily
Attendance Progress Report.
6. At the 60th unexcused period absence the advisor will refer student on caseload to a dean/administrator for
disciplinary action and referral to District Truancy. All calls and interventions must be logged in Infinite
Campus.
7. Students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities and events will need to maintain a 95%
attendance rate for a designated period of time before the specific event.
8. Teachers will contact students and parents/guardians as per Superintendent Policy 5124 and 5020 when
students' academic success is in jeopardy. This contact will be documented in Infinite Campus.
9. Parents/guardians must contact the Attendance Office within 48 hours of the absence in order for an absence
to be considered excused (this excludes school related functions). The absences on record that have not been
called in within the 48 hour time period will not be excused without administration/dean approval.
10. Parents may excuse up to 5 absences per quarter without official documentation (e.g funeral, court, or
doctor).
11. Parents/guardians and students should carefully consider their decision to participate in any extended
prearranged absence. For an extended prearranged absence, students must:
a. Obtain a prearranged absence form from the Attendance Office.
b. Obtain a parent/guardian signature.
c. Obtain an administrator signature.
d. Present the form to teachers for advanced recommendation and assignments.
e. Submit the signed form to the Attendance Office at least two (2) days prior to the absence.
10. Students leaving campus before their regular dismissal time must have clearance from the Attendance
Office or nurse prior to their departure. Parents/guardians must notify the Attendance Office before any student
is permitted to leave. Students who do not follow this procedure will be considered truant.
11. Students will be marked tardy if they arrive late to class.
12. An unexcused tardy becomes an Unexcused Partial Absence (UPA) if the student is 10 minutes or more late.
Unexcused partial absences count as unexcused absences.
13. The administrator in charge of attendance, may, upon receipt of facts clearly establishing emancipation,
allow students to excuse their own absences.
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14. Students, parents/guardians, or certified staff may appeal any attendance decision by contacting the
appropriate administrator.
Perfect Attendance
Perfect school attendance is the single most important determining factor in student achievement and success.
Therefore, students who have perfect attendance will be recognized and rewarded-periodically. An absence is
defined as non-attendance of the student in one or more class periods. To be recognized as a student with
perfect attendance, the student is not to have any absences from class, with the exception of school related
authorized activities such as: school activities, field trips, testing, conferences with a staff member. Students
with other absences, excused or unexcused, or more than one unexcused tardy, will not be considered for
perfect attendance recognition.
AUDITORIUM RULES/PROCEDURES
Operational Rules
•
Scheduling of the auditorium will be the responsibility of the Athletics/Activities secretary. Staff can
schedule reserve the auditorium according to the Building Usage Policy.
•
Students shall be supervised by an adult staff member at all times.
Safety Rules
•
No students may be on the catwalk.
Procedural Rules
•
No food or beverage in the auditorium.
•
Students must have adult supervision to operate the lighting and the sound system. Only those students
with appropriate training and permission from a staff person may operate equipment (including the follow
spots).
•
School and outside groups must have a trained Thornton technician present to operate equipment.
•
When the auditorium is used during the school day, the requesting individual or group must request
needed equipment and personnel to operate the equipment at least 48 hours in advance.
•
Students may not move wing, center, or back curtains without an adult present.
•
The piano may be used only with permission.
•
Nothing may be placed or hung on the curtains, wings, or screen.
•
A protective covering must be used on the stage floor if metal taps are used on dancer’s shoes.
•
When any prop or flat is attached to the stage floor, it must be anchored in a manner that causes no
permanent marks or holes in the floor.
•
All painting, staining, etc., must be done in the tech room, not on the stage.
•
All make-up room facilities must be left neat and clean.
BOOK DEPOSITORY
The book depository is located in the same office space as the Copy Center. Books that are stored in the Book
Depository belong to Language Arts, Social Science, World Languages, and Science. The department chair is
responsible for inventory. Any department chair who needs assistance with the Destiny system should contact
the LMC:
Students are not permitted to be in the Depository without adult permission (and preferably supervision).
Returned books are to be shelved immediately.
BUILDING COMMITTEES
Budget Representative
•
Assist with development and administration of school and subject area budget.
•
Present and justify subject area funding.
•
Evaluate, prioritize and recommend proposed expenditures to the principal and budget committee.
•
Ensure implementation of proper purchasing procedure as purchases of supplies, equipment and materials
are made based on curriculum area priorities and staff needs.
In conjunction with the bookkeeper, maintain a current account of subject area expenditures.
•
Maintain an accurate inventory of subject area materials, supplies, and equipment.
•
Responsible for approval of any expenditure by other department members.
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Faculty Advisory Council
Faculty Advisory Council consists of seven (7) teachers elected at large to serve one and two year terms. The
purpose of the group is to advise the Principal on matters of school policy and procedure and to maintain a
formal and constant communication between faculty and administration.
Certified Leadership Structure
The leadership structure affecting the certified staff at Thornton High School consists of five certified
Instructional Coaches, five teachers on a Leadership Team, and Department Chairs as specified by master
agreement. The responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
Instructional Coach
Focus on research based high yield instruction strategies.
Provide all teachers with non-evaluative support in instruction and classroom management.
Coaches will be randomly paired with 4-5 PLC groups and will support teachers within those
groups.
Provide supporting documentation to the teacher.
Support MYP cross content integration based on cross curriculum coaching perspective.
Support efforts of teachers teaching the same course through PLC’s.
Assist Professional Development and use the intervention schedule in conjunction with
administration and district educational specialists.
Foster collaboration between teachers, departments, subject area specialists and administration.
Assist in student teacher assignment.
Coordinate and lead peer observations.
Provide support for probationary teachers.
Assist substitute teachers as necessary.
Coordinate opportunities for in-service training, workshops and conferences with administration.
Assist in achieving our pillar of an authentic curriculum.
Assist teachers with student/teacher personalization.
Attend FAC, SIT, PLC’s as needed.
Assist administration with the hiring process as needed.
Leadership Team
Facilitate ongoing development of the school Unified Improvement Plan by monitoring, assessing,
and amending the plan based on school needs as indentified through data analysis and community
input (teachers, students, parents, etc).
Advance policies and procedures that enhance achievement and meet educational, safety and parent
involvement goals.
Collect and communicate relevant school data to staff, students, and the community (data to be
examined includes attendance/discipline, grades, surveys, MAP, TCAP, ACT, etc.)
Facilitate decision-making utilizing two-way communication and all available data (for example:
newsletter, website, school and community meetings, email, auto-dailer).
Build capacity of the school to address parent and staff concerns.
Serve as building Assessment Coordination Team by designing the overall testing schedule and
providing a stipends/substitutes to administer assessments.
Coordinate ACT and TCAP academies.
Attend FAC and SIT meetings.
Coordinate and support building Community Meetings with Principal.
Build capacity of the school to improve the following areas:
o
School climate
o
Building discipline policies
o
Two-way communication
o
Parent involvement
o
Extra-curricular activities
o
Consult with the principal and make recommendations regarding budget
o
Staff development
o
Instructional materials
o
Staff assignments
o
Duty assignments
Attend weekly Admin meetings.
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Assist the administration in the organization of community events.
Coordinate use of facilities and resources.
Assist the administration in the development of resource allocation.
Assist administration with the hiring process.
Department Chair
Manage departmental budgets.
o
Maintain responsible working knowledge of departmental budget balances.
o
Develop in conjunction with staff members proposed prioritized departmental budget
(based on overall building allocation, departmental priorities and staff needs), present to
administration, and initiate purchase of equipment, materials and supplies.
o
Receive and distribute departmental materials.
o
Assist in the development of resources for the department.
o
Maintain departmental inventories and other records.
Serve as approving agent for the department, i.e., field trips, professional days, purchase orders,
before going to administration or SIT as appropriate.
Assist registrar, counseling, and administration in student registration and placement. Assist in
development of master schedule and course registration guide.
Advise building administration of maintenance and custodial needs.
Attend FAC, SIT, PLC’s as needed.
Assist with School/Community Relations.
Disseminate information as directed by the administration.
Voting body for decisions defined as “Department Chair” vote in Master Agreement.
Respond to community inquiries involving department.
Assist administration in other assigned duties.
Assist administration with the hiring process.
Instructional Coach and Leadership Team selection process:
IC’s and members of the Leadership Team are selected by the administration with input from staff. Per master agreement, the
1.0 FTE designated for building leadership is decided by agreement between Department Chairs and Administration. The 1.0
FTE will be used by Instructional Coaches as release time.
Department Chair Selection Process
Per the By-Lays of the Thornton Leadership Council, the department can select the Department Chair or the
department may ask for the Department Chair to be appointed. The following process will be used:
1. Current Department Chairs should indicate to their department whether they would accept another term if
selected
2. All those interested in applying for the position of Department Chair for each department should complete
the appropriate application (see Main Office Manager) and submit it to a member of the department
assigned to accept those applications. The current Department Chair may be exempted from submitting an
application if the department chooses to allow it.
3. If the department wishes to select the Department Chair, they should review the applications and make
their selection and forward this as a recommendation to the Principal.
4. If the department wishes the Principal to make the selection, they should forward the applications to the
Principal, who will interview the candidates and make the selection.
5. The selection process should be completed by May 15 to allow the new people to attend a meeting before
the end of the year.
Note: As you pursue this process, please discuss the delegation of duties to avoid creating an undue burden on
your colleagues.
Principal’s Advisory Council (PAC)
The Principal’s Advisory Council consists of students from every grade level who meet with the principal on a
quarterly basis. PAC allows students an avenue through which to provide input regarding school issues such as
parking, advisory, school rules and policies, and scheduling. Student concerns and comments are then shared
with the entire administrative team so that student concerns can be addressed. Meetings are held during the
school day at different times throughout the year. Students interested in being a part of the Principal’s Advisory
Council should contact the Principal.
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School Improvement Team
Thornton High School’s School Improvement Team consists of an umbrella group representing all the different
shareholders who will meet at least once per month. This group is composed of the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
5 certified staff
5 parents
5 students
1 community member
1 administrator
3 classified personnel
BUILDING/COMPUTER LAB/TECHNOLOGY USAGE PROCEDURE
We are implementing a new way of requesting building use including Conference Rooms, Labs, Common
Areas, Classrooms, etc. All directions and needed forms are located on the F: drive under the folder "Building
Use - EMS." Please read through all of the instructions thoroughly.
View the Adams 12 Five Star Schools Virtual EMS Calendar. The instructions located on the F drive will show
you how to view the calendar and filter it to view a specific room. This calendar is view only and must be
accessed by a district computer.
The "EMS _distributed" document is the actual form that you will need to submit a request for any space in the
school. It is the form used to communicate with the custodians regarding room setup, HVAC, and scheduling
additional custodians. It also serves as a confirmation that the requested area is booked.
General Guidelines:
1) Each staff member must book the facility a minimum of one week prior.
2) Each staff member can book lab space no more than one month prior.
3) Each department chair should submit a semester plan at the beginning of each semester (that indicates large
projects and the need to have lab space for more than one week).
4) In case of unforeseen circumstances (change of plans as it pertains to needing space) please communicate
professionally (via e-mail) with the assigned secretary.
5) Staff cannot occupy lab space for more than one consecutive week.
Computer Lab Usage
1. Students are NOT allowed to download any games, or programs from the Internet. Students are
NOT to play games on the computers or use headsets to stream music from the internet on the
computers.
2. Record which students sit where, and CLOSELY watch any that may concern you regarding vandalism,
or inappropriate activities. Any incidents of vandalism must be reported immediately to Technology
Coordinator, along with the names of the students seated in the vicinity. If you use a lab on a regular basis
attempt to seat students at the same computer each time to reduce login time. NOTE: WIN7 takes two
minutes to build a student profile on first use.
3. When you request a lab, make sure you know ahead of time how to navigate within the Thornton network.
If you have questions, contact the Technology Coordinator.
4. Before you request a mobile lab, make sure you have completed the training and signed the mobile use
form provided by the tech department. All mobile computers must be SHUT DOWN AND PLUGGED
IN THE CART after use.
5. Please have your students “log-off” computers so that other classes cannot access their documents. This
automatically exits all applications that are running.
6. Pick-up trash and have students push in chairs before you dismiss them from the labs.
7. If you experience a problem with one of the computers, please email THS Tech Help. Report the lab
room number and the PC number, along with a brief description of the problem.
8. No food or drinks are allowed in the computer labs.
9. ONLY APPROVED SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS MAY CONDUCT CLASSES IN THE
COMPUTER LAB. Do not sign up for computer lab time when you cannot verify that your substitute is
on the approved list.
10. Please delete unwanted information from your P drive, H drive, and email regularly.
11. Student Save in Folders should be used only for copies – always save an original in their H: Drive.
12. A quick reference may be found in the appendix.
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CONCERNS
Students or parents who have concerns/questions regarding academic issues can resolve these issues in the
following manner and order:
a) Speak directly with the teacher. If unresolved:
b) Confer with student’s counselor. If unresolved:
c) Speak to a school administrator.
If the concern is a peer issue involving another student:
a) Speak directly with the student’s dean or counselor. If unresolved:
b) Speak to a school administrator.
In accordance with Board Policy 2.1 Treatment of Students, Their Families, and Community Members, students
and parents should not fear retribution for non-disruptive expression of dissent or concern.
CONFIDENTIALITY
All staff members should remember the need for confidentiality when discussing students’ academic progress,
behavior, personal files/records, etc. Staff department offices and open areas such as the Main, Counseling,
and Deans/Attendance Offices often have many students, parents and other staff members present. Please
be cognizant of your surroundings and professional responsibilities.
CALENDAR - See appendix
CAMPUS SUPERVISORS
The role of the Campus Supervisors is to be aware of and to assist school personnel in maintaining security,
safety, and discipline as they relate to staff, students, and THS campus.
CHILD ABUSE
The State of Colorado, by law, mandates that professional educators who have knowledge or reasonable
cause to believe a child is being physically or sexually abused, must immediately report such information to
appropriate.
Suspected child abuse cases must be reported to Social Services and one of the following:
•
Counselor
•
Administrator
•
Social Worker
•
Psychologist
•
Dean
Child abuse or neglect may be revealed by a variety of symptoms, including high absenteeism or truancy,
inability to concentrate on tasks, inability to achieve, signs of excessive aggression or withdrawal, and bruises,
welts, and/or burns. All staff members should, therefore, be sensitive to and attempt to understand any
unusual behavior or appearance of students in school. See Superintendent Policy Handbook (Policy Code
5000) for further information.
CLASSIFIED/ ATTENDANCE/TIMESHEET PROCEDURES
Thornton High School staff recognizes and supports the fact that staff attendance significantly impacts the
learning environment.
Each person has been assigned specific work hours by their supervisor, i.e., 7:00-3:30, 6:45-3:15, 6:30-3:00.
Please make sure that you follow those work hours.
In order for Valerie Forbes to complete payroll on time, she must have the timesheet information completed
weekly. Please remember that all comp time has to be pre-approved. Timesheets should be checked and signed
by your supervisor every Friday.
•
Campus Supervisors – You will show hours as stated above for your daily Campus Supervisor
hours. For extra activities such as athletic events, concerts, dances, etc. you still need to fill out separate
time sheets as before.
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•
Those who perform 2 jobs – If you are a Para & Custodian or a Para & Clerk, you will have two
separate timesheets. Each will need to be signed by your supervisor each Friday.
•
Paras – Student Services still requires that Eyan Shields turn your hours in to them prior to the 15th
of the month. You will need to write your expected work hours for the 15th on your timesheet. We will
notify you as to when your timesheets need to be turned in.
•
Sign your timesheet – At the end of the pay period, please sign your timesheet. A signature will be
required before Valerie processes payroll for that month.
•
Call Michelle or Valerie when absent or out of building for meeting – Michelle Bermudez and
Valerie Forbes keep track of all time and attendance in order to do payroll. It is imperative that they be
aware every morning of who is out of the office, whether it is for the day or just out for a few hours for a
meeting etc. If you cannot reach the switchboard (it opens at 7:00 a.m.) please leave a message on
Valerie’s phone, ext. 4801.
Attendance Expectations:
•
Schedule – start time – in position working, ready for business, working throughout until last minute of
scheduled time.
•
School District expectation – accurate reflection of time on time cards.
o
i.e. if starting time is 7:00, and employee starts at 7:06, timesheet must reflect such hours.
•
Everyone fills out timesheets DAILY, even Monthly Employees; as per Mark Hinson on January 29,
2004, all classified employees must have their timesheets signed weekly.
Call-In Procedure:
Call Valerie Forbes at (4801) as soon as possible – must be at least 1 hour before scheduled starting time.
If an emergency – must conference with supervisor as soon as possible.
Tardy/Absence Procedure:
•
Tardy/Absence Policy; all employees must call in. (Time is defined by built in building clocks.)
•
1 to 15 minutes late – call in, make up those minutes immediately after work with supervisor notification
•
15 minutes or more – call in - temporary time, comp or flex time must be taken, or be docked those
minutes.
•
3 or more tardies in a month – supervisor intervention
•
2 consecutive days absent – you may be asked for a doctor’s note
Comp/Flex Procedures:
•
If an employee feels they must work beyond regular scheduled hours – they must first contact their
supervisor to get pre-approval. This includes taking work home.
•
Both parties must sign comp/flex form as soon as possible.
•
If supervisor is not in the building, page and call.
•
If still not available, see another assistant principal or principal.
•
Overtime only accumulates beyond a 40-hour work-week or if one was to work more than 12 hours in a
24 hour period.
•
Must record on comp/flex sheet. The use of Compensation/Flex time or Overtime will be mutually agreed
upon by the employee and their supervisor.
•
Flex time must be taken by Sunday of the same week
•
1 ½ Compensation time – to be used by Dec 31
•
1 ½ Overtime – paid that month
Lunch:
•
All classified employees must take a duty free 30-minute lunch each day; this lunch period must be
documented on the timesheet. If an employee is called away from lunch due to a school emergency, their
lunch will be rescheduled or they will be paid for their 30 minutes.
•
As defined by Wage & Hour regulations, lunches should be taken during scheduled time or mid shift.
•
Certified Staff are not eligible for flex time/ overtime per their Master Agreement.
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CLOSED/OPEN CAMPUS
Thornton High School has a closed campus policy. Students are not permitted to leave campus during the
day without first checking out through the Attendance Office. Freshmen and non-Honor pass sophomores
will be required to stay on campus. They will need to make arrangements to purchase foods from the
food court (Royal Gorge), or bring their lunch. Honor pass sophomores (available for students who have a
3.0 GPA and meet other criteria), juniors, and seniors will be able to leave campus during lunch; however,
they must be prepared to show their I.D. to campus supervisors to verify that they are an upperclassman
or honor pass sophomore. Leaving campus for lunch is a privilege. Any student who takes ineligible 9th
and 10th grade students off campus could lose their privileges. Students who violate this policy will be
subject to discipline according to the matrix.
CLUBS
School Sponsored Clubs
Dance Club; Drama Club; Fashion Design Club; French Club; German Club; IBSU; Key Club; Knowledge
Bowl; Latino Leaders; Literary Magazine; National Honor Society; Pottery Club; Special Olympics; Speech
and Debate Team; Spirit Squad; Trojan Connection; World Affairs Challenge; Band; Choir; Newspaper;
Orchestra; Student Congress; Yearbook; DECA; FBLA; FCCLA (these opportunities vary by year) .
COMMUNICATION
Daily Announcements (broadcast daily for Students and Staff)
Announcements will be broadcast daily. Students and staff are expected to remain quiet and attentive during
announcements. Members of Student Council and/or administration will read the daily announcements. Staff
members will receive the announcements via email once a day. Hard copies of the announcements will be
printed and made available in the Main Office. They will also be projected onto the wall in the Lower
Commons.
Deadline for submitting announcement information is noon the prior day. Announcements may be repeated
for three consecutive days and must have administrative approval. Necessary forms are located in the Main
Office and should be given to Janet Frazier.
Weekly Bulletin (for Staff)
In order to disseminate generic staff information through a medium other than email, all staff will receive a
THS Weekly Bulletin electronically by 9 p.m. every Sunday night. Deadline for submitting announcement
information is noon Sunday (to the principal). All staff will be responsible for reading the bulletin by 4 p.m.
Monday.
Communication with Students/Parents
Parents and students have been informed they will be able to access staff members through voice mail and
email. You are expected to check your email twice per day and your voice mail at least once per day. A
reasonable amount of time to return calls or emails is 24 hours. In addition, staff members should be available
for individual pre-arranged conferences after school. It is the expectation that all teachers communicate with
parent/guardians regarding academic progress, attendance, and student behavior, and document this
communication in Infinite Campus. As stated in Superintendent Policy 6310, timely notices shall be
communicated orally to parents/guardians when a student’s academic progress becomes unsatisfactory (D or F)
between midterm and the end of the quarter/semester. A written record of this communication shall be
maintained by the school.
CRISIS TEAM
The Crisis Team consists of the counselors, psychologist, health aide, deans, and administrators. Their primary
task is to interview and assess students who are indicating the possibility of severe mental, physical or
emotional trauma. Any staff member may refer a student whom he/she believes could benefit from Crisis
Team intervention. Symptoms/clues to depression or suicidal behavior can include:
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Behavior Clues
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Previous attempts.
Change in friends.
Change in personal care and hygiene.
Giving away possessions.
Impulsive, risky behavior.
Fascination with death in music, art, writings, etc.
Rapid mood swings.
Sadness/depressed mood.
Poor school performance/poor concentration.
Situational Clues
•
•
•
Loss of significant relationship/death of loved one.
Gender orientation concerns.
Significant change in life style, lack of family support or abuse
Verbal Clues
•
•
You’ll be better off without me.
You don’t have to worry about me anymore.
If you find yourself in a situation with a student you believe may be thinking of suicide you should:
•
•
•
•
Take all threats seriously.
Notice signs of depression and withdrawal.
Be an active listener and show your support.
Notify the student’s counselor immediately and if possible, escort the student to the Counseling Office.
CSEA BUILDING REPRESENTATIVE
TBD
DANCES
The following guidelines will be in effect at all Thornton High School sponsored dances. These guidelines will
help ensure safety, security, and guarantee an enjoyable time for all.
•
In order to attend a school dance, students will need to maintain 95% attendance during the identified time
window for that dance.
•
Dress must be appropriate for a high school dance. Determination is subjective to the discretion of school
administration. Those students not complying will be allowed to go home and change into more
appropriate attire. If you’d like to have your outfit approved ahead of time, do not hesitate to contact the
Dean’s Office prior to the dance.
•
We will follow Safe School policy and Thornton High School Rules and Regulations during dances (hats,
etc.).
•
Guests must be approved and will be allowed to attend at the discretion of the Thornton High School
Administration. Forms can be picked up in the Main Office up to 10 days before the event and MUST be
returned to the Main Office no later than 2 days prior to the dance. Guests must also provide their
school/Colorado ID’s. Students who bring a guest are responsible for their guest’s behavior during the
dance/activity. The Thornton student and guest are expected to arrive together and remain together for the
entire activity.
•
There is a ‘no in/out’ policy. If you leave the dance, you will not be allowed to return.
•
Parents are welcome to stop by and enjoy the event or volunteer to be chaperones.
•
Students will be required to show their school ID’s as they enter the dance.
•
Dance moves need to be appropriate for a high school dance.
•
Staff is invited to all dances to help serve as chaperones. Please notify an administrator or sponsor if
interested in providing support.
•
No guests 21 years of age or older.
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DEAN’S OFFICE
The dean’s primary role is to monitor student attendance and discipline as well as address problems
regarding the security and safety of the campus. Students experiencing problems with other students or
in the classroom should consult with their dean/counselor for help in resolving those issues.
DEPARTMENT CHAIRS
Art
Business
Family & Consumer
Counseling
English
ESL
IB
LMC
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Science
Soc. Sciences
Special Program
World Languages
Beth Manning
Brad Peer
Lenna Mabbutt
Shari Watters
S. Smith/M. Baker
Megan Fiore
Michael Pettersch
Kristen McCloskey
M. Jones
Sebastian Adam
Lisa Saunar
Greg Berg
Karyl Haden
R. Barber
A.Gaspers
When the leadership of Thornton High school was restructured it was agreed that current department
chairpersons, later to be called Department Chairs, would remain in their capacities for two years to ensure
continuity.
DEPARTMENT MEETINGS
The following are expectations of building departments:
•
Shall meet a minimum of once a month.
•
Student achievement should be the focus of at least one meeting per month.
•
Committee reps should use this time to disseminate information from their respective committees.
DISCIPLINE
The intent of the Thornton High School administrative staff is to be corrective in most disciplinary actions and
to help students modify unacceptable behavior. Teachers are expected to handle minor discipline infractions
which occur in their classroom. When a discipline referral is completed the student will be called to the
Dean’s office.
The following actions must be included in the referral:
Date of Redirect
Date of Conference with the Student
Date and type of behavioral intervention (consequence)
Date of parent contact
The deans and/or administrator will make the decision regarding any consequences. Teachers may follow up
with the deans/administrator regarding outcomes of conferences or hearings or may reference the Behavior tab
in Infinite Campus.
Prior to considering the range of disciplinary actions, the following factors will be considered:
1. The severity of the action.
2. The circumstances involved the number of prior offenses.
3. The requirements of the law and Adams Twelve Five Star School District Policy.
Students are entitled to earn full credit for work missed during unexcused absences. Schoolwork must be the
equivalent of that missed, and completed within the time frame provided in Superintendent Policy 6281.
Note: A student who is suspended will not be allowed to participate in or attend any school-sponsored activity
during the time of suspension. The Thornton Police Department will issue a trespassing ticket to any suspended
or expelled student found on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity. When a student has been
suspended for three days or longer, the parent and student are required to have a conference with the student’s
dean before the student may re-enter the school.
25
The intent of the Thornton High School administrative staff is to be corrective in most disciplinary
actions and to help students modify unacceptable behavior. Teachers are expected to handle minor
discipline infractions that happen in their classrooms. When a discipline referral is completed the
student will be called to the Deans office, the Dean and or Administrator will make the decision
regarding consequences given to the student. Teachers can get the results of the submitted
referral by looking in IC under the behavior tab. If further follow-up is needed the teacher may
contact the Dean or Administrator involved in the processing the referral. Prior to considering the
range of disciplinary action the following factors will be considered.
1. The severity of the action.
2. The circumstances involved and the number of prior offences.
3. The requirements of the law and Adams Twelve Five Star School District Policy
Students are entitled to earn full credit for work missed during unexcused absences. School work
must be the equivalent of that missed, and completed within the time frame provided in
Superintendent policy 6281.
(See Discipline Matrix)
DTEA BUILDING REPRESENTATIVES
Andres Martinez
Shelly Smith
Christine Stang
DUTY DAYS
Teachers have paid duty days August 14, 15, December 19, and May 28th. Teachers will have submitted to the
Main Office the following items no later than two weeks after school starts:
•
Syllabus for 1st semester classes
•
3 days of emergency lesson plans
•
Personnel sheet
•
Transcripts/new license information
Upon check-out, teachers will submit, in conjunction with the check-out sheet, the following items:
•
•
•
List of student fines if applicable
Library books, videos, AV equipment, and textbooks
All keys
ELIGIBILITY/EXPORTING GRADES
It is expected that teachers will export updated grades on a weekly basis. See page 77 for grading timelines.
Teachers who fail to meet timelines may be subject to progressive discipline. Teachers may also be required to
attend grading workshops given by the building technology team.
EMAIL
You are expected to check your email twice per day and your voice mail at least once per day. A reasonable
amount of time to return calls or emails is 24 hours. Superintendent Policy 4410, among other things, states
that the district reserves the right to review, audit, intercept, access and disclose all messages created,
received or sent over the electronic system for any purpose. More information may be found in the
Superintendent Policy Handbook.
EMANCIPATED STUDENTS
The administrator in charge of attendance may, upon receipt of facts clearly establishing emancipation, allow a
student to excuse his/her own absences. A limit of five excused absences per quarter will be allowed. In the
absence of facts clearly establishing emancipation, students cannot excuse their absences. Students who attempt
to excuse their own absences will be subject to disciplinary action.
26
EMERGENCY CLOSING/
WEATHER UPDATE/DELAYED START
The phone tree will be activated by building or district administration in case of inclement weather or
emergency situations. It is your responsibility to have access to a current phone tree at all times. If you don’t
get an answer, leave a message and call the next person on the list until someone on the phone tree answers the
phone. Use professional discretion if you must leave a message concerning a student or school personnel.
Any change regarding your personal information published on the phone tree (ie, new phone number) must be
communicated to Val Forbes immediately.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
It is your responsibility to discuss building emergency procedures and evacuation routes to safety with each of
your classes during the first week of each semester.
Accident Procedures
1. Stay calm.
2. The staff member should stay with the student. If the injury appears serious, do not move the student.
3. Send someone to get an administrator/dean. The person sent should have the injured student’s name, if
available, and a description of the situation.
4. The administrator/dean in conjunction with the health aide will assess the situation and determine the need
to call “911” or move the student to the Health Office.
5. If 911 is called, and the student transported to the hospital, the administrator/dean needs to acquire as
much information as possible regarding the details of the situation.
6. Notification of parent/guardian of information regarding the accident/injury will be conveyed through the
administrator/dean or health aide.
7. If a student becomes ill or is injured at school, he/she should report to the Health Office. Should a student
need to be sent home, parents/guardians will be notified.
8. When students are sent to the Health Office, please check to see that they arrived.
9. If chemicals come in contact with the eye or skin, begin flushing with running water immediately; then
send someone to get the administrator/dean.
10. All medication should be taken in the Health Office.
11. In case of an accident, the teacher must complete an Accident Report form (available in the Health Office).
Bomb Threat
1. The person receiving the call should attempt to get the caller to indicate where the alleged bomb is located
and when it is to be detonated.
2. The person receiving the call should attempt to keep the caller talking as long as possible and should
identify things such as gender, age, type of voice, background noise, etc. If the call comes in on a phone
with Caller ID, the person receiving the call should note the caller’s phone number.
3. The person receiving the call should immediately inform one of the administrators. The administrator will
assess the situation and determine the need to call 911 and evacuate the building while notifying:
•
school resource officer
•
deans
•
campus security
•
Risk Management
4. An administrator will announce over the intercom, “Teachers, at this time, please check the appearance
of your room.”
5. Upon hearing this announcement, teachers should look around the room for anything:
•
out of place
•
which has not been seen in the room before
•
unusual in the trashcan (do not attempt to remove)
6. The above steps need to be completed quickly as there is normally a short time frame to determine
whether or not the building should be evacuated. Remain calm and continue talking or leading discussion
as you move around the room so as not to alarm the students.
7. If the announcement to evacuate comes over the loudspeaker from an administrator, teachers should tell
students to take their purses and backpacks as they exit the room.
8. The building will be evacuated immediately in the same manner as a fire drill. Students are not to stop at
their lockers or any other area. Follow evacuation routes for a fire drill unless instructed to do otherwise.
Keep students 300 feet from the building.
9. Be prepared to take attendance outside to account for all students.
10. The administrator will have contacted:
27
•
District Public Information Officer
•
Executive Director of Secondary Schools
•
Superintendent
11. The police and/or fire department will be responsible for the search and the removal of any devices.
Building maps and keys will be provided to them.
12. If the decision is made not to evacuate the building, the administrators/deans and campus security will
conduct a search of the building while classes continue.
Building Evacuation/Fire Drill
Evacuation routes are posted in each classroom.
1. Have an assigned student assist handicapped students.
2. If on the lower level, wheelchair students should go with the class.
3. If on the upper level and exits are accessible, wheelchair students should go with the class.
4. Classroom doors must be locked as you leave. Once outside, all students and faculty must be a minimum
of 200 feet away from the building. Personnel not assigned to classes should assist in clearing halls and
restrooms.
5. Once outside, teachers/study hall monitors need to take attendance to account for all students.
6. Office Manager need to take a staff list outside with them to account for all staff members in the event of a
real fire.
7. In the case of a drill or false alarm an announcement will signal students to reenter the building
ANNOUNCEMENT TO GET STUDENTS AND STAFF INTO CLASSROOMS:
“Staff and students, we have a security alert. Please go to the nearest classroom and wait for instructions.”
Security Lockout: (Lockout)
(External Threat)
ACTION TO BE TAKEN:
Security Lockout: is defined as the need to limit access in and out of buildings. During a Lockout students are
requested to maintain their normal activities while remaining indoors with staff members present for security
reasons during the entire procedure. Outside PE classes should immediately be moved into the building.
ANNOUNCEMENT TO STUDENTS AND STAFF FOR: (Lockout)
“Staff and students, there is currently an external safety concern that has caused us to go to a Lockout. This
means that activities and classes will continue as normal within the building; however, no students will be
allowed to leave the building. At this time, please resume normal activity.”
After the incident has been resolved, the following announcement should be made:
“Staff and students, you may now resume normal classroom activities.”
Security Lockdown: (Lockdown)
(Maximum Security Level)
ACTION TO BE TAKEN: (There is no longer a distinction between low, heightened, and maximum
security level threat) There should be two distinctions in this area lockout and lockdown.
Security Lockdown: is defined as the need to limit access in and out of buildings. During a Lockdown students
are required to remain in one classroom or secure area with a staff member present for security reasons during
the entire procedure. PE classes and classes in the mobiles should immediately be moved into the building. DO
NOT LET ANYONE INTO A CLASSROOM OR OFFICE AREA AT ANY TIME DURING THE
LOCKDOWN!
After the incident has been resolved, the following announcement should be made:
“Staff and students, you may now resume normal classroom activities.”
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SECURITY LOCKDOWN: (Maximum Security Level)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
School officials and law enforcement authorities may initiate a security lockdown. If initiated by law
enforcement, notification of identified administrators/staff members may be made either directly or
indirectly.
Staff and students are to be on the floor in a corner away from the hall door and windows. The lights
should be out (appearance of no one is home). People outside should leave the grounds unless the school
has an alternate plan for people outside.
• Students and staff in the hallway – Go to the nearest restroom or open classroom and remain in
the restroom or classroom until the incident has been resolved and the announcement over the
intercom has been made. Do your best to make yourself invisible. Administrators and other staff
members may be in the hallways and will direct students/staff to a classroom.
• Students and staff in the library – Get away from the interior and exterior windows. Attempt to
get all students and staff in the library to the northwest corner of the library behind the shelves.
Room 528F, Literacy Coordinator room at the back of the library, can also be used for students
and staff. If time allows, close blinds, turn off computers, and lock the gate.
• Students and staff in the Royal Gorge –Staff should round up students and take to boys or girls
locker rooms.
• Students and staff in the Commons – Staff should quickly round up students and take to 300
classrooms (upper commons); staff should round up students and take to auditorium (lower
commons).
If early release is requested by the emergency response authorities, the transportation department must
work in conjunction with the district administration, building principal, and law enforcement agency
representatives to coordinate the safe transport of students to another location.
Risk Management and the principal must be apprised of the incident and must be onsite.
Fire alarms – Do not exit immediately. Staff should use good judgment and evaluate the situation first.
Staff should take a minute to smell, look, and listen for any indication of a fire. If there is no indication of
fire, STAY PUT!
Power Failure
In the event of a power failure, teachers are to:
1. Remain in the classrooms with students and wait for instructions.
2. Emergency lights will start during a power failure. The building has an emergency generator which
allows us to broadcast information to all rooms.
Tornado Procedures
Teachers will direct students to designated shelter areas, which are posted in each classroom.
1. Have assigned students assist handicapped students.
2. Have students leave coats and books in room.
3. Upon leaving room, take attendance card.
4. Have students walk rapidly and quietly to assigned area.
5. Check roll and keep students quiet and calm.
6. As the storm approaches, instruct students to:
•
assume protective position with head down and hands locked at back of head
•
remain in position until notified
7.
8.
After the storm passes, check students for injuries.
After the “all clear” is given, check the classroom for unsafe conditions and close the windows, if weather
permits.
In all instances of a building emergency, the Administrator/Office Manager will be stationed at the
intercom to relay instructions and information to students and staff.
EXTENSIONS
The purpose of extensions is to provide a structure for:
1) Developing interpersonal relationships among staff and students
2) Providing academic support to students
3) Enriching the curriculum
4) Providing college preparation
5) Building a school culture.
29
The contents of extensions include but are not limited to:
•
Academic intervention (at least two weeks per month)
•
Discovery behavior training
•
S.O.S. awareness training
•
MYP personal project preparation
•
Study skills
•
Sustained silent reading
•
School spirit and culture
•
Community service
•
Character building
Specifically the structure consists of a modified bell schedule that extends each of the eight class periods by 30 minutes in a
two-week rotation, referred to as Blue Week and White Week.
Extensions is not for continuing the current class period or for teaching new material.
FAXES
The fax number to be used by staff members is 720-972-4999. This fax will be located in the Main Office.
Faxes received at the school will be delivered to staff mailboxes once per day. Staff members may use the fax
machine in the Main Office at any time between the hours of 7:00 – 3:30 p.m.
FEES
All students will be charged a $5.00 handbook fee, $10.00 technology fee and $30.00
textbook/materials/supplies fee. Some courses require fees or materials. These fees and material
requirements are listed at the end of each course description in the Registration Guide. Please be
prepared to pay all fees at student check in.
FIELD TRIP POLICY
Field trips should be arranged well in advance to ensure that scheduling, transportation, teacher and parent
notifications are timely and complete. Field trips should directly support instruction and desired outcomes. No
field trips should be scheduled during the last two (2) weeks of each semester or the last week of first and third
quarter. It is the sponsor’s responsibility to complete the following:
1. Check the master calendar for conflicts prior to establishing a date for the trip.
2. Complete all forms. All necessary forms are located in the Main and/or Attendance Office.
•
Field Trip Request – This form should be completed two weeks in advance of the planned trip. NOTE:
For extended (overnight) field trips, Board of Education approval is required and must be submitted 2
months in advance.
•
Regular Student Field Trip Permission Form – This form is the parent permission form and must
accompany the sponsor until after the trip has been completed.
•
Thornton High School Field Trip Form – The student brings this form to each of his/her teachers to sign
and submits to sponsor prior to departure.
•
Field Trip Attendance Sheet – This form should be completed prior to your trip. One copy is left in the
Attendance Office the day before your activity, or before you leave and the other copy should accompany
the sponsor. Inform the Attendance Office after the trip if students did not attend as planned.
•
When using private vehicles for field trips or student activities, all aspects of Board of Education Policy
6270 must be followed. It is the responsibility for the adult sponsor to make sure that board policy is
followed. All requests to use private and/or student drivers must be submitted to the Board of Education
no less than 30 days before the planned activity or field trip. Please familiarize yourself with this policy
before planning a trip which uses private and/or student drivers.
Field Trip forms are available in the Attendance Office
FIELD TRIPS – LOCAL AND OUT OF STATE/COUNTRY
Superintendent Policy
30
FINALS—See Assessment
FINANCIAL SERVICES
All financial transactions, purchase requests, reimbursements and fines are to be directed through the
bookkeeper in order that accurate records may be kept for auditing, insurance and district policy purposes.
Deposits
Any monies collected for fundraisers, club activities, fines, etc., must be deposited with the bookkeeper daily.
School district insurance does not cover lost or stolen funds from any location other than the bookkeeping
office.
To deposit money with the bookkeeper, complete a Daily Deposit Transaction slip and include back-up
documentation listing how and where the monies were obtained. All checks deposited must have the 17 digit
account string posted on the front of the check. This process allows the bookkeeper to identify what account
to charge if a check is returned. Checks should be made out to Thornton High School for the exact amount.
Checks for more than the purchase amount will not be accepted. Forms must be filled out completely or they
will be returned.
It takes 1–2 weeks for the deposit to be posted to the account and available for your use. It is the district
finance department that actually posts the money to your accounts (not the bookkeeper). If you are
depositing money for a specific activity, do so at least three weeks prior to the activity to ensure that money is
credited to the account. If there is an activity with a required fee, and there is no money in the specific
account, there cannot be purchases, checks, or buses charged to that account.
Placing Non Warehouse Orders
Order forms are located in the Bookkeeper’s Office. Complete the form and be sure to include as much
information as you can. Valid item numbers are essential in getting the right product. Please use a current
catalog so the pricing is correct and include shipping charges if applicable. Orders not marked with shipping
will have an automatic 10% added to them. Orders that are over $2500.00 will need to be bid. Please see the
bookkeeper before you start any of this. Do not waste your time by doing this yourself. The purchasing
department is in charge of getting this done, but there are procedures that we need to follow. Have the
department budget person sign off and turn it into the bookkeeper. She will get all other necessary
authorizations. No order is to be placed without both Departmental and Administrator approval. Standard
delivery time is 30 days. Please be sure to plan ahead. All forms must be complete or they will be returned.
Orders not placed by the bookkeeper need to be paid by the person who placed the order. It is against
school policy to place an order and bill the school. Once you pay the bill, you can seek reimbursement by
filling out a Voucher/Check Request form. Forms are located on the F: drive in the Bookkeeping folder or
the Bookkeeper’s office.
Placing Warehouse Orders
Order forms are located in the Bookkeeper’s Office. The district warehouse catalog is available by going to
http://.adams12.org – Staff – Services – Central Warehouse – Catalogs. Have the department budget person sign
off and turn it into the bookkeeper. Delivery from the warehouse is three times a week. Incomplete paperwork
will be returned.
31
Reimbursements
Voucher/Check Request forms for reimbursements are located on the F: Drive in the Bookkeeping folder or in
the Bookkeeper’s Office. The petty cash limit for Thornton High School is $250.00. Split receipts (same date,
same vendor) to meet the petty cash limits will not be accepted. It does not matter what fund you are pulling
money from. If it’s in the district bank account, it’s bound by district policy. RECEIPTS MUST BE ORIGINAL
AND ITEMIZED. You will no longer be reimbursed for receipts that do not reflect items purchased. Checks for
reimbursement under $250.00 can be issued by the school’s bookkeeper each week. If you have several
purchases that are over $250.00, reimbursement will be made by the district Financial Services office via direct
deposit into your checking account. District reimbursements are processed two times per week at the
Administration Building. Forms must be complete or they will be returned.
Advances
Voucher/Check Request forms for advances are located on the F: Drive in the Bookkeeping folder or in the
Bookkeeper’s Office. Submit your request to the Bookkeeping Office two weeks before the check is needed.
Receipts must be returned to the bookkeeper within 10 days after the check is printed.
Grants
Grants are governed tightly by school policy and state and federal law. Petty cash cannot be used to
reimburse expenditures from grants. Reimbursements must be processed through a district check request
and given to the bookkeeper. To order supplies and services, follow the Ordering process above.
Account Information
Each department budget representative, activity sponsor, and head coach will receive a printout of their
balance by the 10th of each month.
Bookkeeping Office Hours
Office hours will be posted.
Important Information
•
•
•
•
•
Both Department Budget Representatives and an Administrator must approve requests.
No transactions will be processed if an account does not have sufficient funds.
Purchases from personal funds that are over $250.00 are not guaranteed full reimbursement.
If there are any questions or you need help, please feel free to see the bookkeeper at the posted times.
In http://.adams12.org – Staff – Services – Central Warehouse you will find the warehouse catalog,
Vendor Award Sheets, and Pricing Agreements.
FIVE STAR DIPLOMA
The Five Star Diploma has been created as a step above a regular diploma. A graduating senior of any Adams
12 Five Star District high school may receive a FIVE STAR DIPLOMA for completing the following
requirements:
1. Completed 24 credits.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Has an accumulative GPA of 3.5 as of the end of the first semester of their graduating year.
Receives a test score of 23 on the state mandated ACT test given on the required date at the student’s
school.
Meets or exceeds the CCDE requirements.
Has participated in all state mandated assessments at the current school while enrolled as a student in
Adams 12.
FOOD AND DRINK POLICY
The goal of the food and drink policy is to maintain a clean school. It is encouraged that staff members disallow
students to leave class during academic times in order to purchase food or drinks. Staff are further encouraged
to have clear classroom expectations pertaining to food and drink. Food and drink are never allowed in the
LMC, auditorium, or computer labs and stations. Students are not to be given permission during class time
to leave and purchase food or beverages.
32
FUNDRAISERS
A request by an activity or athletic group to conduct a fundraiser needs to be processed by completing a
Fundraising Request form, located on the F: Drive in the Bookkeeping folder. Submit this completed form to
the Bookkeeper at least 2 weeks in advance of event. The bookkeeper will return signed approval after the
Assistant Principal responsible for fundraisers has approved your request. If your request is not approved, the
bookkeeper or Assistant Principal will contact you to let you know the status of your request.
Proposals will include:
•
•
•
•
Where and for what purpose money will be spent
Name of company, representative product, profit margin
Preferred dates of sales
Cashbox Requests
Fundraisers will be coordinated on a Master Calendar and set for a definite time frame. The purpose of this
policy includes:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Coordination of fundraisers to avoid overlapping and duplication of efforts
A lessening of the inundation our community would feel as a result of our fundraising efforts
An accurate tracking of all fundraisers
A Fundraising Summary report, located on the F: Drive in the Bookkeeping folder must be completed and
submitted to the Athletic/Activities Secretary at the end of each fundraiser within 7 days
Future fundraisers may not be approved if all fundraising reports are not submitted and current
Any and all monies collected from fundraisers must be submitted to the Bookkeeper’s Office (not in the
mailbox)
GRADE LEVELS & RECLASSIFICATION
Thornton High School students are encouraged to make regular progress toward graduation.
•
A student must earn at least sixteen (16.0) credits to be classified as a senior.
GRADING POLICY
It is the responsibility of teachers to maintain accurate and consistent grading records for all students in all
classes. Teachers will use the Infinite Campus system via a computer to enter and track student grades. The
District grading scale is listed below. Grading scales need to be published on your class syllabus.
District Grading Scale
90 – 100% = A
80 – 89% = B
70 – 79% = C
60 – 69% = D
Make-up work will be provided for a student who has been absent, whether the absence is excused or
unexcused. Students are also entitled to earn full credit for graded assessments completed during all in and out
of school suspensions. It is the responsibility of the student or parent to request and arrange to pick up make-up
work needed to prepare for assessment. All graded assessments shall be completed in a time period determined
to be appropriate by the teacher and administrator or according to the school assessment retake policy.
GRADE REPLACEMENT
Students who fail or receive a low grade in a class may retake the class (on a space available basis) for a better
grade. The student will be awarded the higher grade and the GPA will be recalculated. Upon verification of
successful completion, the prior course grade will be replaced with “NC” and the new course grade and credit
listed in the transcript under the corresponding semester.
Students requesting grade replacement should see their counselor or the registrar and complete a Grade
Replacement Form before retaking a class. Grade replacement is not an option for maintaining valedictorian/
salutatorian status.
33
GRADE REPORTING
The school year is divided into four grading periods. Only the semester grades will appear on permanent
transcripts. Students may pick up weekly progress reports in the Attendance Office. Those students whose
parents request weekly Progress Reports are responsible for getting teacher’s signatures, taking the reports
home, and sharing them with parents. Students who mishandle Progress Reports will be dealt with according
to the Discipline Matrix.
GRADES AND GRADE BOOKS
Grades recorded in Infinite Campus are the official legal record of student progress. It is crucial that teachers
keep accurate records. Grades must be recorded within a reasonable time considering the form of assessment.
During the first week of school, teachers must communicate to students and parents, in writing, an explanation
of classroom rules and policies as well as how grades will be earned in each class. This should be documented
on your class syllabus and turned in to the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction within the first
two weeks of school.
Teachers are encouraged to report student progress at regular intervals other than at the mid-term, the end of the
quarter, or the end of the semester. Failing grades should be reported as soon as possible to parents. Accurate
record of such reporting must be maintained by the teacher and recorded in Infinite Campus. Teachers are
encouraged to schedule parent conferences before school, during planning periods, after school or during the
evenings whenever necessary. Administrators are willing to sit in on parent conferences and/or participate in
conference phone calls to parents upon request. Superintendent Policy 5124 governs reporting student progress.
Faculty who fail to comply with the reporting of student progress according to Superintendent Policy 5124 may
be required to assign homework to allow the student to raise their grade.
GRADING TIMELINES
2013-2014 Thornton High School Grading Timelines
Grading
Opens
Grading
Closes
Report Cards
Grades to
Transcript
Weekly
Progress
Report
Semester 1
Senior Grades
Quarter
4/ Semester 2
Every
Wednesday @
9:30 a.m
Every
Thursday @
5:00 p.m.
Dec. 16, 2014
May 4, 2015
May 25, 2015
Dec. 19, 2014
May 6, 2014
May 28, 2015
12:00 p.m.
Mailed first
week January
Mailed first
week June
Dec. 30, 2014
May 30, 2014
Deadlines are firm. To receive an extension, see the AP for Curriculum and
Instruction
34
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Graduation requirements have been established by Thornton High School and the Board of Education to ensure
a well-balanced program to meet the challenges of our society. These requirements allow and encourage a wide
range of electives to prepare for post high school work, training, and advanced study. All students should be
enrolled in a minimum of
Adams 12 & THS graduation
requirements
English …………………….………..4
Social Sciences……………………1.5
U.S. Government……………… …0.5
U.S. History…………………………1
Math……………………………...… 3
Science……………………………. ..3
Physical Education…………..……. ..2
Fine/Practical Arts………………… ..2
Elective……………………………. ..6
Total Required Credits……..23 credits
3.0 credits each semester and 1.5 of the 3.0 credits per semester need to be in core classes. Core classes include
math, science, social studies, English, and world language
GUEST SPEAKERS
Teachers are encouraged to supplement regular instruction with the appropriate use of guest speakers.
Teachers wishing to have a guest speaker/presenter/outside group visit their class, need to consult their area
Department Chair and the Assistant Principal for Curriculum before arranging for a guest speaker. The Main
Office has the necessary forms to use when making arrangements.
GUIDANCE/COUNSELING SERVICES
Telephone: 720-972-4825
The developmental nature of the curriculum framework is intended to provide students with a wide continuum
of learning experiences so they can develop an understanding of their role as a student, worker and citizen in the
21st century. Thornton High School will provide opportunities, expectations, and support for each student to
achieve academic excellence.
The partnership of staff, students, families and the community will encourage individual integrity, personal
growth, and enthusiasm for the future. In keeping with best practices the counseling curriculum has aligned with
the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) model of counseling. The ASCA model includes the
following domains:
Personal/Social Domain
Students understand the concept of self-identity and the skills necessary to develop interpersonal relationships
as well as a responsible life style.
Educational Domain
Students understand the personal challenges of learning in school and other settings and strategies to deal with
such challenges.
Career Domain
Students know how to explore and identify personally appropriate careers.
Thornton High School will assign its six counselors by core in the 9th/10th grade and by alphabet in the 11th/12th
grade. During the first two years of high school, the guidance and counseling program will focus on assisting
students to identify goals, academic strengths, and career interests. In the 11th grade, students will identify
specific classes that support their career choice and begin the application process to college. College and
scholarship search information will be initiated during the Junior Year. In the 12th grade, students will
concentrate on post-secondary options.
•
•
Counselors will assist with identifying academic needs as they relate to the ACT and the SAT.
Assistance will be provided to students regarding course selection, schedule concerns, credit counts,
College and Scholarship information and interpersonal needs.
35
•
The SAT examination will not be administered at Thornton High School; however, the ACT and PSAT
will be administered at Thornton High School during the 2013-2014 school year. Test dates at other area
high schools are listed on ACT’s website. See your counselor for additional information.
PSAT
Date to Be Announced
For SAT testing dates
Sat.collegeboard.org
Individual Counseling:
Students may schedule an appointment to see their counselor anytime. Students are encouraged to make
appointments during off periods, lunch, before or after school. Parent/Guardian initiated conferences will be
acknowledged and scheduled as soon as possible.
HALL PASSES
Students will be required to have a pass any time they are in the halls during class time. Teachers and staff
members will sign the “hall pass” section in the Student Handbook. Students are not to be given permission
during class time to leave and purchase food or beverages.
HARASSMENT/HAZING/BULLYING
The staff and community of Thornton High School expects all students to conduct themselves in a positive
manner, one in which consideration, kindness, and respect are displayed toward fellow students. Bullying as
defined by state law is any written or verbal expression, or physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof that is
intended to cause distress upon one or more students. Incidents of harassment/bullying (physical, sexual,
verbal, or written) or hazing will not be tolerated. A student who feels he/she is the recipient of such
behaviors needs to report it immediately to his/her teacher, dean, counselor, or administrator. Any staff
member who is approached by a student about harassment / hazing / bullying shall ensure the student
receives the assistance necessary, which may include addressing the situation immediately, parent contact,
and/or referral to the dean/administrator. Incidents of this type must be documented in writing.
The following examples could be viewed as forms of harassment/hazing/bullying:
repeated remarks with sexual or demeaning implications
any unwelcome touching
incidents involving any form of initiation
verbal or physical intimidation
HEALTH SERVICES
The school district provides registered nurses to train, delegate, and monitor various school staff (including
health aides, special needs paras, office staff, teachers and other designated staff) on health procedures
needed for students during the school day. The registered nurses also provide consultation to school staff and
parents on medical concerns and act as medical liaisons between schools and outside agencies. Each
registered nurse provides health services to both regular education and special education in numerous
buildings throughout the district.
Health Office
A Health aide staffs the school Health Office and is responsible for providing minor first aid to those students
who become sick or injured while at school, administering prescribed medications, and maintaining health
records. Other designated staff provides coverage in the Health Office when the Health aide is not on duty.
Confidentiality
All health information is confidential. Please use discretion when discussing student’s health and always
respect the confidentiality of all health information.
36
Children who become ill or injured at school
Your student will be seen in the Health Office if ill or injured at school. The Health aide or office staff will
determine if the student needs to go home for illness or injury. Please Do Not call parents to pick up ill or
injured students from your classroom. These phone calls should be made from the Health Office for safety and
documentation; when sending students to the Health Office, please send a, pass, or planner with them.
Injury
All possible head injuries, possible fractures, possible dislocations, as well as severe lacerations, should be seen
by the Health aide or office staff. Do not send students who might fall or are injured to the office alone. Also,
do not move students with a possible head, neck or back injury. THIS IS IMPORTANT! Each class is issued a
first aid kit. Please allow students with minor injuries such as a paper cut to use classroom first aid kits. This
will allow the student to assist in their own health care and he/she will not miss valuable academic time away
from the classroom and will keep visits to the Health Office manageable especially during flu season. The
student should wash the cut with soap and water or use the antiseptic wipe in the kit before bandaging the
injury. If you need more first aid supplies speak with the health aide.
If a parent reports to you that their child has a communicable disease such as chicken pox, fifth disease,
meningitis, or pertussis (whooping cough), please report it to the Health Office immediately. Also, please
report any students that are scheduled for surgery. All health notes should be sent to the Health Office for
documentation.
Student Accident Reports
Accidents occurring during school hours must be reported to the Health Office by the teacher or supervisor
immediately. The official accident report forms are available in the Health Office. This form should be
completed and given to the office staff before the staff member leaves for the day. All accident reports stay
within the district and are never given to parents.
HEALTH SERVICES, IMMUNIZATIONS AND MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL (See District Policies,
Notifications, and Information)
Field Trip Medication Guidelines for Teachers
1. Please notify the health aide of field trips at least three days to one week in advance.
2. The health aide (or alternate staff person who has been delegated by the building RN to administer
medication) will select and prepare individual student medications. These medications will be
placed in labeled field trip medication envelopes.
3. On the day of the field trip, stop at the Health Office and pick up the student medication envelopes.
4. A written Health Care Plan may be provided for reference for any diabetic students or students with
epi-pens. It will also be important to have a list of current contact phone numbers for these students.
Diabetic students will need to be allowed to carry snacks/juice/glucose tabs as well as glucose
testing kits.
5. Medication can be released only to a District employee, who will then assume responsibility for and
carry the medication during the field trip.
6. Only a District employee can administer medication to students on a field trip.
7. The exception to #5 & #6 is when a parent/guardian goes on the field trip and chooses to administer
medication to their own child.
8. When students are divided into groups, it is suggested that the students with medication be in the
group with the staff person who will be responsible for the medication.
9. The staff person who will administer the medication should follow the instructions on each
medication envelope and make every effort that the student takes it at the time specified.
10. Only one type of medication is placed in each envelope, so it’s possible you could have more than
one envelope for a student if a student needs to take more than one medication during the field trip.
11. Typically, individual doses of medication (tablets, capsules, etc.) are placed in the small envelopes,
while inhalers or epi-pens are sent in the larger envelopes.
12. If a student has parental/health care provider authorization, she/he may carry inhalers or other
“emergency” type medications with them, as they would while at school. Otherwise, school staff
should assume responsibility for carrying medications.
13. If a student doesn’t take their medication for any reason while on the field trip (or takes it more than
a half hour later than indicated on the envelope) please advise the Health aide of this when you
return to school.
14. After administering medication to a student, sign your name on the field trip envelope, as well as the
time you gave the student the medication.
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15. Return the medication envelopes to the Health Office as soon as possible when you return to school.
This will be retained as a record that the medication was given that day.
16. If you have been given a student’s inhaler or epi-pen, it is very important that you return this to the
Health Office when you return from the field trip. This ensures that the student will have this
available to him/her at school if needed.
17. If the Health aide has left for the day when you return from the field trip, please be sure to leave any
medication, inhalers, or epi-pens with the office staff, who can lock it up. We ask that you not leave
it unattended in your room or in the Health Office.
18. And last, but not least, your cooperation in helping students safely receive their medications on field
trips is greatly appreciated by your building RN and Health aide.
Universal Precautions in the School
Universal precautions are based on the concept that blood and certain body fluids, such as urine, stool, vomitus,
vaginal secretions, saliva, and nasal secretions, should be considered potentially infectious for pathogens.
Examples of pathogens (disease producing agents or microorganisms) include the hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B
virus, hepatitis C virus, salmonella bacteria, common cold virus, gastrointestinal viruses, and HIV.
It is important that personnel in the education setting be aware of the potential risk of blood borne and
infectious pathogens (disease producing agents or microorganisms). Employees in the school setting can come
in contact with blood or body fluids while performing their job duties since students of all ages sustain cuts,
wounds, and nosebleeds. It is essential for each employee to know the safety precautions that will minimize
risk of transmission of disease.
Many diseases are carried by blood and body fluids. The three most serious are hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C
(HCV) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Blood borne pathogens can cause infection by entering
the body in a variety of ways; open cuts, skin abrasions, dermatitis, and the mucous membranes of the mouth,
eyes, or nose. Infection can also occur through injury with sharp contaminated objects such as broken glass,
needles, knives, and exposed ends of orthodontic wires. Indirect transmission of pathogens can occur when an
individual touches an object or surface contaminated with blood or with infectious material and then transfers
the infection to the mouth, eyes, nose, or open skin. Contaminated surfaces are a major cause of the spread of
hepatitis. HBV (hepatitis B virus) can survive on an environmental surface dried and at room temperature, for
at least one week.
The keys to preventing infection are:
1. Understand the risks in the workplace.
2. Know how to protect yourself.
3. Classroom first aid kits contain the supplies needed to follow universal precautions.
Alert: A parent does not have to inform the school if his/her child is positive for HBV, HCV, or HIV. This
information is strictly confidential and is provided on a need to know basis only.
Guidelines
It is imperative that these guidelines be followed at all times when providing care to any student, whether or not
the student is known to be infectious.
Hand washing:
This is the single most important way to prevent the spread of infection. Hands must always be washed
at the following times:
• Upon arrival of the day
• Before eating or handling food
• Before feeding a student
• After diapering and toileting
• After handling body fluids (mucus, blood, vomit) and after wiping nose, mouths, and sores
• After cleaning anything
• Before and after giving medication
• Before and after performing special health care procedures
• Between contact with different students who are ill or injured
Handling Blood and Other Body Fluids: Treat all blood and body fluids as if they are infectious.
• Ensure that soap, running water, paper towels, gloves, and proper disinfectant solutions are available
in the school environment.
• Wear gloves at all times in the following situations:
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- When school personnel have the potential to come in direct contact with blood or body fluids that
may contain blood (i.e., bloody noses, loose teeth, bloody wounds, vomitus and stool).
- When breaks in the skin (scrapes, cuts) are present on school personnel’s hands and the person could
come in direct contact with blood or body fluids.
- Wash hands even after gloves have been worn.
If skin or mucous membranes come in direct contact with blood, wash or flush the area with water thoroughly.
Cleaning or Disposing of Infectious or Bloody Material
• Wipe up a spill of blood or body fluids with a paper towel and dispose of material in the trash
wearing gloves. Double-bag the trash and dispose of immediately. Discard gloves.
• Clean and disinfect the area with an approved disinfectant or bleach solution (one part liquid bleach
to 10 parts water, mixed daily)
• Send all soiled clothing (i.e. clothing with blood, stool, or vomit) home with the student in a doublebagged plastic bag. Do not attempt to clean or rinse clothing.
Gloves should be worn when direct care of the student may involve contact with blood or body fluids. For
infection control, it is recommended that gloves be worn as well for contact with urine, feces, and respiratory
secretions. Gloves should be disposed of after each use and not reused.
When to Wear Gloves
• When changing a diaper or catheterizing a student.
• When changing a dressing, or sanitary napkins.
• When providing mouth, nose or tracheal care.
• If the caregiver has broken skin on the hands (even around the nails).
• When cleaning up spill of blood (e.g., nosebleeds) or body fluids and wastes, and soiled supplies
Always wash contaminated areas immediately with soap and water. If a mucous membrane splash (eye or
mouth) or contamination of broken skin occurs, irrigate or wash the area thoroughly. If a cut or needle stick
injury occurs, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.
Medical Procedures in the School
The following are additional guidelines to be followed when medical procedures are performed in the school.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
All medical procedures for students need to be supervised by an adult who has been trained in that
procedure (trained by the school RN).
Medical equipment for students will be kept in the Health Office or approved area.
Medication will be kept in the Health Office in a locked cabinet or drawer.
Medical procedures will be performed in the Health Office or approved area.
A “sharps” box (a safe container for disposing of sharp objects) will be available in each school in
the Health Office. All sharp objects such as syringe needles or lancets will be disposed of in this
box.
ABC Checklist for Vision Observation and History
This information will help teachers concerned about a student’s vision:
Does this child have glasses for distance, reading or full time wear?
Appearance – Do the eyes look normal?
•
Eyes turn in or out
•
Crusty or red eyelids
•
Different sized pupils or eyes
•
Swelling of eyelids
•
Conjunctivitis (Pink eye)
•
Drooping lids
•
Other:
Behavior – Teacher/Parent Observation
•
Tilts head, covers or closes one eye for critical seeing
•
Difficulty in keeping place while reading – a “finger” reader
•
Disinterested in activities involving critical seeing
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•
Excessive stumbling, awkwardness or day-dreaming
•
Holds printed materials in unusual position
•
Other:
Complaints – Child’s Statements
•
Eyes hurt or blur while reading
•
Headaches when reading
•
Words move or jump about when reading
•
Double vision
•
Eye problem following blow to head
•
Can’t see the chalkboard
•
Other:
Teachers may refer students to the Building RN/health aide for further assessment.
ACTIONS FOR LIFE THREATENING HEALTH CONCERNS
DIABETES-LOW BLOOD SUGAR
Mild
Hunger, shaky, sweaty, fast pulse and respirations
Escort to Health Office immediately!
Student can start treatment by eating
piece of hard candy or glucose tablets.
Moderate Headache, dizziness, impaired vision, confusion
Give juice or regular pop (not diet), sugar cubes/packets.
Severe Loss of consciousness, seizures.
Notify Health Office Immediately to call 911! Do not give anything by mouth!
SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION (To foods or insect stings) If in doubt about exposure to
allergens, treat as allergic.
Remain calm and stay with child
Difficulty breathing, tingling sensation in mouth or throat, hives, feels like throat is closing off,
vomiting, swollen tongue or face.
Call Health Office immediately and request delegated staff member come to classroom with epipen (if student has order).
Delegated staff will assess and administer epi-pen if indicated. Call 911 if epi-pen administered
or student is symptomatic but does not have epi-pen.
ASTHMA
Mild Fatigue, cough, pale, restless
Offer sips of warm water, have student use inhaler (may be with student or in Health Office)
Send or escort student to Health Office!
Moderate Cough, shortness of breath, audible wheezing, irritability, increased respiratory rate. Same
as mild. Escort to Health Office
Severe Blue color around mouth and nail beds, extreme breathing difficulty, chest retraction, distress
not relieved by medication.
Notify Health Office immediately to call 911!
SEIZURE DISORDER
Tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizure: Eyes roll upward, jerking movements of extremities, loss of
consciousness, vomiting and/or incontinence may occur.
Stay Calm
Protect student from harm (move furniture, put pillow under head)
Do not restrain movements or attempt to put anything in student’s mouth
Turn student’s face to side to prevent choking
Call Health Office for assistance
Call 911 for seizure longer than 5 minutes
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HOMEWORK/MAKE-UP WORK
Homework
“Homework” refers to tasks assigned by teachers and intended for completion outside the classroom or class
period. Homework offers additional practice of academic skills, prepares students for upcoming lessons, and/or
elaborates on introduced material.
Homework provides opportunities for rehearsal and practice of vital skills because it extends learning
opportunities beyond THS. Homework and completion of homework is vital to THS academic success.
Thornton High School has a standing summer reading homework assignment for all students.
Student Responsibilities:
•
Ask for clarification if an assignment or its due date is not understood
•
Complete homework assignments thoroughly, thoughtfully and neatly
•
Submit homework assignments on time.
Parent Responsibilities:
•
Realistically assess the time required to meet the needs of their student’s education, being mindful that
other activities may infringe on time available for academic success
•
Encourage and motivate their students to complete both class work and homework to the best of their
abilities
•
Assist their students in setting aside a time(s) and place in which to complete homework assignments
•
Contact their student’s teacher(s) via email, voice mail, letter, or in person regarding any questions or
concerns about homework.
Teacher Responsibilities:
THS staff will provide guidelines for their homework policy in their course syllabi. THS staff will clarify the
specifics of homework assignments including purpose, connection to in-class instruction and due date. THS
staff will provide clear, timely feedback regarding student performance on homework. THS students will ask
for clarification if an assignment or its due date is not understood.
HONOR ROLL
•
•
•
•
Principal’s Honor Roll- A student must receive a 3.5 or higher GPA in at least five graded classes, not
counting assistantships and must not receive a failing grade in any class.
Trojan Honor Roll- A student must receive a 3.0-3.5 GPA in at least five graded classes, not counting
assistantships and must not receive a failing grade in any class.
Academic Letter -Students may earn an Academic Letter for maintaining a 3.7 GPA for at least three
consecutive quarters (grading periods) of the school year. Academic letters are awarded in the spring and
fall.
National Honor Society- Students who maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA, meet the service requirements,
and are nominated may apply for membership in the National Honor Society.
INTERVENTIONS
Parents
A.
If a computerized attendance call is received at home, please call the student's counselor and discuss the
student's attendance. It is vital the school has correct phone numbers; if there are
any changes please contact the school immediately.
B. Attendance is recorded on mid-term, quarter, and semester report cards.
C. Please attend parent/teacher conferences and request information related to the student's attendance.
D. Parents/guardians can request students carry weekly progress reports to be reviewed at home. These are
available in the attendance and Counseling Offices.
E. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend classes with their students by notifying the Main Office.
F. To set an appointment with the student's counselor contact Guidance and Counseling.
G. Contact the administrator responsible for the student's grade level and ask about their shadow program.
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INTERVENTIONS
In-School Suspension
Thornton High School offers in-school suspension based at THS. In-school suspension meets in a classroom at
Thornton High School in which students will do required schoolwork. Discipline infractions for which inschool suspension is an option are indicated on the discipline matrix. The in-school suspension room will be
monitored by a campus monitor or other staff member. The intention of the in-school suspension room is to
limit the number of days a student is out of school for a discipline infraction. Students will remain in the inschool suspension room for the school day with scheduled breaks and lunch (sack lunches may be required).
Students will not be allowed to listen to music, use cell phones, or participate in any activity that would be
disruptive to the environment. Students will be asked to participate in various service learning projects (i.e.
picking up trash around campus and the surrounding neighborhood; gloves and trash bags will be provided).
Alternative to Suspension
Superintendent’s policy 5.6 (Alternative to Suspension) states the following: “The pupil may remain in school
if the parent, guardian, or legal custodian, with the consent of the pupil’s teacher or teachers, attends class with
the pupil for a period of time specified by the principal/designee.”
The guidelines for alternative to suspension will be as follows:
•
A five-day suspension can be reduced to a three-day suspension provided that a parent agrees to attend
school with the student for at least one of the three days. The remaining balance of the three-day
suspension will be served as an out-of-school suspension.
•
A three-day suspension can be reduced to a one-day suspension provided that a parent agrees to attend
school with the student for one school day.
“In the event that the student’s disruptive behavior continues despite the presence of the student’s parent,
guardian, or legal custodian, the use of this alternative to suspension shall end for that student, and the
disciplinary process shall continue. Such student may not be offered this alternative during the remainder of the
school year” (Superintendent’s policy 5.6.2). Arrangements for parents/guardians attending school with their
children will be made by a dean or an administrator. Teachers will be notified prior to the parent/guardian
attending school with his/her child. The alternative to suspension may be combined with out-of-school or inschool suspension in order to meet the consequence stated in the discipline matrix.
KEYS
This policy ensures care and safety of school property. The loss of a key or unauthorized use of keys can result
in unnecessary expenditures for our school.
The building principal or designee will issue keys to employees and may require all employees to sign a key
receipt. The following regulations are School District No. Twelve Board Policy:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
An employee is required at all times to safeguard keys issued.
An employee shall not loan keys to students or fellow employees for any reason.
Loss of keys shall be reported, in writing, to the principal immediately. Restitution for such loss may be
required of the employee based upon circumstances and the cost of restoring security.
Supervisors are responsible for repossessing school keys when an employee terminates.
No employee shall have a key duplicated. Unauthorized copying of keys may be considered justification
for dismissal.
Keys should not be left unattended in an office or classroom.
The chief building administrator or his/her designee must maintain a key record for all locked areas within
individual buildings.
Staff will read and sign the Thornton High School Key Policy on a yearly basis.
LAMINATING
Lamination services are conducted by the media clerk in the Library.
LEAVING CAMPUS (STUDENTS) DURING SCHOOL HOURS
Every student missing a class and/or leaving campus before his/her regular dismissal time must have clearance
from the Attendance Office prior to the absence. Parent contact, either by note or phone, will be necessary
before any student is permitted to leave.
Students who do not follow this procedure and go home on their own without permission from the nurse or
Attendance Office will be considered unexcused (truant).
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Thornton High School has an open campus at lunch for seniors, juniors and honor pass sophomores. If a student
chooses to leave campus for lunch, then he/she has assumed all responsibility for returning on time for the next
class.
Freshman and non-honor pass sophomore students are to remain on campus throughout their school day.
LEAVE: PROFESSIONAL, TEMPORARY, JURY
Jury Duty: (#26 on the sub line)
Use this designation for jury as well as subpoena purposes. Be sure to bring paperwork from the court to the
Office Manager for payroll verification.
Professional Leave (#23 on the sub line)
When it is necessary to be absent from a teaching assignment for workshops, meetings called by the district,
training, etc., for which funds have been provided for a substitute, it is necessary to complete a Professional
Activity Form, available in the Main Office.
This form should be completed and submitted to the office manager at least two weeks prior to the absence. It
is the responsibility of the person taking the leave to make arrangements for a substitute by contacting the Sub
Office at 720-972-4082 (computer). Lack of advance notice or a shortage of subs may result in a teacher
being recalled to duty. Appropriate substitute information and materials should be left in the Main Office with
the receptionist the day prior to the leave. When using in-house coverage (for 1-2 classes only), a Supplemental
Substitute Time Report will be used to pay for coverage. (See the receptionist.)
Temporary Leave (#21 on the sub line)
This encompasses all personal reasons for absence, illness included. Please call for a sub as soon as the need is
known.
Substitute Procedures
In preparation for an absence from school for a professional/sick/personal day, plan as completely as possible to
allow your substitute the best opportunity for success.
All certified staff must report absences on the Substitute Calling System, EVEN IF YOU DO NOT NEED A
SUB! (Make sure you enter "No Sub Required" if you do not need the system to automatically call the list of
available subs.) This applies for full day absences, half-day absences, or even just one hour. EVERY absence
needs to be reported to the Substitute Calling System. If you know ahead of time that you will be out, please
put the absence in right away. If you wake up and have an ill child (or you are ill, etc.), please call the job in by
5:30 a.m. If you have a reason to be absent after 5:30 a.m., please put the absence in the sub system, and then
call the receptionist to let her know, as she has no reason to check the sub system later in the morning. All subs
will report for the time indicated by the default time on the sub line; teachers may not change the default time.
(The sub recorder is on 24 hours a day. That number is 720-972-4082.) Lack of advance notice or a shortage
of subs may result in a teacher being recalled to duty.
When advance notice is possible, notify the office manager in the Main Office and discuss with her the location
of your lesson plans and anyone who can serve as a resource. An emergency lesson plan should be available on
file in the Main Office.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER
Colorado Reading Standard 5: Students read to locate, select and make use of relevant information from a
variety of media, reference and technological sources.
Library Uses the MYP Design Cycle
The deliberate teaching of information literacy skills supports 21stcentury learning. In addition, the MYP
Design Cycle values the process of inquiry and analysis. The explicit instruction of the Design Cycle provides
the structure and scaffolding students need to excel at projects and papers. The Design Cycle includes:
•
Investigate
•
Evaluate
•
Plan
•
Create
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The Teacher Librarian works with staff and students to incorporate this model into work in the library as well as
in the classroom.
Colorado Information Literacy Standards: The information literate student:
•
Accesses information efficiently and effectively;
•
Evaluates information critically and competently;
•
Uses information accurately and creatively;
•
Learns independently to pursue information;
•
Appreciates literatures and other creative expressions of information;
•
Strives for excellence in information seeking and knowledge generation;
•
Contributes positively to the learning community and recognizes the importance of information to a
democratic society;
•
Practices ethical behavior in regard to information and technology; and
•
Participates effectively in groups to pursue and generate information.
Library Mission
The Thornton High School Library provides an environment ensuring student and staff success as effective
users of ideas, information and technology. We support staff with the implementation of district curriculum as
aligned to state standards.
The library supports Standards for the 21st Century Learner as defined by the American Association of School
Libraries (AASL).
Library as a Learning Center
The THS library is a center of learning. When you are here, you will develop research skills, engage in digital
technology, connect with books for multiple purposes, create projects for class, and collaborate with other
learners.
The library staff takes pride in providing an excellent collection of materials, both for choice reading and for
research purposes. The Teacher Librarian enjoys working with individuals and with classes to find books that
meet students’ individual needs.
The library also provides a welcoming atmosphere for students to work or read. Please respect the goal of
providing a place where all students can work toward the THS mission : Total Commitment to High
Achievement and Success for All.
Library and the Design Cycle
A critical element in the Middle Years Program is the Design Cycle. The Library supports the Design Cycle and
incorporates it into collaboration with staff and work with students. The Design Cycle includes:
•
Investigate
•
Evaluate
•
Plan
•
Create
These steps are not linear, rather they work together to build knowledge and understanding. The Design Cycle
is also reflected in the AASL Standards for 21st Century Learners.
Book Checkout
A student ID is required for all checkouts. Books are checked out for a three week time period. Books may be
renewed unless there is a hold on the books. Magazines also circulate, although for only one week.
Drop-In Library Use
Individual students may use the library either during an off period or by having a signed pass from a teacher. In
either case, students must have their IDs.
General Library Use
The library is available to students for study, reading and other purposeful, quiet use. We ask that your trips to
the library look different than your trips to the cafeteria, the Gorge, outside, the zoo…Help us keep the library a
place where students can focus on academic tasks.
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Computer Use
A section of computers are reserved for student drop-in use. Students must have a student ID at all times to use
one of these computers. These computers provide a service to our students that they may use during their off
periods in order to complete school work. Students not working on school related activities may be asked to
relinquish the computer if all other computers are full and a student needs to complete school work.
Electronic Resources
Online Databases
GALE Student Resource Center, EBSCO, ABC-CLIO, Country Watch, and World Book Online, along with
other subscription databases are available. These are online resources paid for by the library. Students and staff
can receive training on using these databases to enhance research.
In order to use the purchased databases outside of the school building, usernames and passwords are required.
ABC-CLIO
User ID: thorntonco
Password: Search
Country Reports
Username: Thornton
Password: Trojans
Country Watch
Username: thslmc
Password: Trojans
EBSCO
User ID: THSLMC
Password: Trojan
Gale Student Resource Center
Username: thorntonhs
Password: thornton
World Book Encyclopedia
(Advanced tab at the bottom of the page)
RemoteID: Adams12
Password: 5star
Internet/Appropriate Use
Students and parents fill out and sign a contract as part of the registration process regarding appropriate use of
the internet. This contract is kept on file with the district. The internet is to be used for research and academic
purposes only. Internet privileges can be revoked for inappropriate use.
Email
Email is limited to academic purposes; the only email to be used is Gmail. Students may email documents from
school to home accounts.
LUNCHES
Period 5 is the lunch period for the majority of staff and students. This is the only official lunch period although
food may be purchased just prior to lunch and in DECA throughout the day.
MAILING/SHIPPING
If you need to mail school items, please put them in the tub marked unstamped mail and log. These items go to
the district mailing facility to be posted and sent. Your department will be billed quarterly for postage.
Thornton High School does not have a shipping facility. If you have boxes/packages that need to be shipped
you will need to take the package to the ESC mailroom to send for you or use any local shipping store and your
personal funds. Items ordered through the bookkeeper that need to be returned should be brought to the
business office.
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MAINTENANCE REQUESTS
Maintenance may be requested by any staff member for minor repairs or damages on rooms, work areas,
restrooms or hallways. Complete a work order form (available in the Main Office) and submit to the Head
Custodian. Work orders are logged and prioritized within 24 hours after being submitted. They will be
returned to the requestor if it will take an abnormal amount of time to complete the request or if additional
information (costs, district procedures) needs to be shared. Emergency maintenance requests (gas smells,
overflowing toilets, broken windows, safety concerns) need to be communicated directly with an administrator
by phone, radio, page, or in person. Staff members in classrooms may dial “0”.
MASTER CALENDAR—see Building Usage
MOVIES
The use of movies in the classroom shall correlate with and enhance the educational program. No X-rated,
NC17 or R rated movies shall be shown at any grade level without following Superintendent Policy 6144.1.
NEWSLETTER
The newsletter is formulated from staff input, articles, ideas, and newsworthy items about students and staff.
Items of interest to parents and finished articles (print ready) should be turned in to the Office Manager,
including all “who, what, where, and when” information. If you would like to have any event or project
photographed, please use a digital camera, available in the Library or from the technology department.
OFFICE HOURS
The Main, Attendance & Discipline, Guidance & Counseling, and Registrars offices will be open from 7:00
a.m. – 3:30 p.m. for staff, students and parents. In addition, teachers are expected to fulfill their professional
job responsibilities in an appropriate manner. If a staff member leaves the building during the day, please notify
the receptionist in the Main Office so we can account for everyone in an emergency, if a parent visits, etc.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent/teacher conferences are important communication opportunities and times to interact one-on-one with
students and their parent/guardian. Conferences will be held September 20, (5-8:00 pm) and February 7, (5-8:00
pm) and attendance by all teaching staff is mandatory. The purpose of parent/teacher conferences is twofold:
•
•
•
To give clear, specific information about students’ progress, attitudes, participation, interest, etc., in class.
To receive important background information from parents this can assist in motivating and instructing
students.
Accurate grading records and specific student progress information are essential to a good conference.
Additionally, student papers or projects, instructional handouts, or other class-related materials often
prove to be very informative and useful to parents.
PARKING
Staff members are required to register cars through Leah Davis. A parking validation tag must be placed
hanging from the rearview mirror. When driving a different car, report the information to Leah Davis.
Staff parking area is located on the south side of the building and on the north side of the building between
Mobile One and Mobile Two.
PARTICIPATION IN THE GRADUATION CEREMONY
To graduate from Thornton High School a student must earn at least one full semester worth of credit (3.0
credits) at Thornton High School. The student must also be enrolled at Thornton High School during their final
graduating semester.
A student who has successfully completed all academic requirements (23 credits) according to Adams Twelve
Five Star School Policy 6340 and is in good standing may participate in graduation exercises and will receive
his or her diploma at that time.
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PLAGIARISM/CHEATING
Plagiarism means to present, as one’s own, the work, writing, words, ideas, or computer information of
someone else. (Sources could be published or unpublished.) Cheating is supplying, receiving or using devices
(examples: looking at/using someone else’s work; using crib notes/stolen notes; or using disallowed equipment,
etc.). If unclear, always ask the teacher.
PROBLEM SOLVING TEAM see Special Education
PROFESSIONAL ENRICHMENT FUND
Thornton High School has monies in a Professional Enrichment Fund to support professional endeavors of its
staff. Applications will be reviewed according to the criteria listed on the application. Funds will be disbursed
throughout the school year, with consideration for an equitable distribution of funds among the staff.
Applications are due depending on dates of SIT meetings. The last submittal for PEF will be one week prior to
the end of the academic school year. All conferences must take place before the end of that year’s fiscal year
July 1.
REPORT CARDS
1st and 2nd semester report cards are mailed to the student’s home.
RELIGIOUS/CULTURAL ISSUES
Teachers shall refrain from demonstrating practices, or directing students to demonstrate practices, which have
significant religious or spiritual components. Sensitivity to practices and beliefs of other cultures shall be
manifested in instructional methods and academic content. This policy shall not be construed to prevent
teachers from teaching about the many religious, ethnic, and cultural groups and their contributions to our
American heritage.
REMOVAL OF STUDENTS FROM CLASS
Sometimes it is necessary for a teacher to remove a student from class as method of re-focusing him or her (a
research based discipline protocol). The re-focus should last longer than 10 minutes, the purpose of the removal
is to re-direct the student from behavior that interrupts the learning environment and that re-engages them back
into the lesson and/or activity as soon as possible.
ROOM ASSIGNMENTS
Room assignments are made by the administration with the needs of the whole school in mind. Any requests
for changes in room assignments during the school year should be submitted to the Assistant Principal over
Curriculum. Under no circumstances are teachers to make changes without the appropriate approval.
SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAM—(Formerly SIT)
Accountability
Members can be removed for cause, but not without some research into reason (i.e., non-attendance, or not
exhibiting required characteristics). Non-attending members will be contacted after missing two (2) consecutive
meetings, and potential dismissal may occur after three (3) absences. Staff will be informed on a regular basis as
to the purpose, responsibilities and actions of the SIT.
Assessment/Evaluation
Bi-annual evaluation by all constituencies will occur. Self and external evaluation will be conducted annually.
To assure this governing structure is sustained:
•
•
Any new administration will be asked to support this governance structure.
SIT will vote on any new changes to this process.
Decisions
SIT determines how decisions will be made within the council, while all members have an equal vote. The
principal has veto power. In the event the principal exercises a veto, he/she is required to prepare written
justification outlining the reasons for the veto.
Meetings
Meetings will be held on a schedule determined by the SIT. Emergency meetings may be called as needed.
Meetings are open to everyone. Constituents and non-members may give input via parliamentary procedure.
47
Membership
Members will include five Certified staff elected by their constituents as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Three staff members at-large
One representative from Department Chairs
One representative from Faculty Advisory Council
One administrator (Principal or designee)
Two elected Classified staff
Three voting Parent Representatives and two alternates
Five selected students
One invited community member
Orientation of Members
An extended meeting will be held for team building and learning the roles and responsibilities of service on
SIT.
Purpose
The purpose of the SIT is to serve as a representative to the school community while advising on the school’s
mission and goals. SIT exercises central decision-making authority in all areas except those strictly under the
auspices of the principal (e.g., administrative staffing, evaluations, safety for student and staff). The mission of
the council is to set goals for the school, monitor the implementation of these goals and share the school’s
vision and values with the THS community.
Responsibilities
The responsibility of the SIT is to serve as a central decision-making body that represents staff, students, and
the community. SIT accepts responsibility for decisions and accepts appeals for any made. Furthermore, all
other committees are directed and coordinated through SIT. SIT coordinates administration and monitoring of
the Professional Development Fund. SIT serves to represent their constituency and communicate meeting
information electronically.
Selection Process and Term of Office
Selection of members will take place by the first meeting of the school year. Specific characteristics will be
used when considering the selection of all members. Terms will be staggered giving the council continuity of
leadership. Membership is limited to a maximum of two (2) consecutive terms.
SEARCH & SEIZURE
School and district officials are authorized to conduct a search when on school grounds: in a vehicle owned,
leased or otherwise used by the district or school; or at a school activity, when there is a reasonable suspicion
that the search will result in the discovery of:
•
“contraband,” which includes all substances or materials prohibited by district/school policy or state law
including, but not limited to, drugs, drug paraphernalia, alcoholic beverages, guns, knives, and/or other
weapons, incendiary devices, and dangerous instrumentalities and/or,
•
any material or item which presents an imminent danger of physical harm or illness; and/or,
•
materials otherwise not properly in the possession of the student involved.
“Reasonable suspicion” must be based on articulable facts and reasonable inferences which supply grounds for
suspecting that the search will lead to evidence that the particular student has violated or is violating either a
specific law or rule of the district/school.
When possible, an involved student shall be informed of the reason for a search, and the official conducting the
search shall attempt to secure the student’s consent to the search.
The scope of a search must be no more intrusive than is reasonably necessary under the circum-stances. All
measures taken by district/school officials must be rationally related to the objectives of the search.
A written record of the particulars of the search shall be prepared explaining the basis for the search, including
facts and inferences amounting to “reasonable suspicion.”
District/school officials may remove contraband, materials or items which present imminent danger, or physical
harm or illness, and/or materials not properly in the possession of the student involved.
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Lockers, Desks, and Student Storage Areas
School lockers, desks, and student storage areas are school property, which the district has made available for
use by students for educational purposes, and school officials have the right to inspect. No student shall lock or
otherwise impede access to a locker, desk, or student storage area except with a lock provided by the school or
otherwise approved. In such, search must only be conducted if there is reasonable suspicion, or when directed
by a district/school official.
Personal Searches
When there is reasonable suspicion that a particular student is in possession of contraband, the district/school
official shall have the right to search the student and to seize such materials. Searches of the person of a student
shall be limited to:
•
•
•
•
searches of the pockets, shoes, and socks of the student;
any object in the student’s possession such as a purse or briefcase; and/or,
a “pat down” of the exterior of the student’s clothing. The search of a person shall be conducted only by a
third person the same sex as the person being searched. Searches shall be conducted out of the presence of
other students and in a private room.
When extreme emergency conditions require a more intrusive search of the student’s person, the
district/school official shall contact the police.
School Buses
Generally, a school administrator or a teacher who is the sponsor for the school-related field trip or activity shall
conduct necessary searches of students on school buses or other vehicles. When a search is based on reasonable
suspicion that a particular student is storing contraband, law enforcement officials should be contacted
whenever possible to conduct the search.
The superintendent herein authorizes the Director of Risk Management, or designee, to conduct searches of
students on school buses or other vehicles used to transport students to and from school or on school-related
field trips or activities.
Motor Vehicles
When there is reasonable suspicion that contraband and/or materials not properly in the possession of the
student involved may be present in a student automobile, district/school officials shall have the right to search
the automobile when it is parked on, or being operated on school property or at a school activity, and to seize
such materials. When the owner of the automobile is other than the person operating or in possession of the
automobile, the owner shall be notified that a search has taken place.
Applicable criteria as stated for search of school property shall apply to search of a student automobile.
Seizure of an Item
Items set out in the above paragraphs, may be seized when found in the course of a search. Any such items
seized may be:
•
•
•
returned to the parent or guardian of the student from whom the items were seized;
offered as evidence in any suspension or expulsion proceeding if they are tagged for identification at the
time seized;
turned over to law enforcement officers; or, destroyed.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Board Policy 8400 (Please see website for the entire policy—this is an excerpt)
1.
2.
•
•
•
Sexual harassment is recognized as a form of sex discrimination which violates state and federal law and
is expressly prohibited throughout School District #12, Adams County. The board of education expects
all persons associated with this school district, including but not necessarily limited to, the members of the
board, the administration, the staff, the students, community members, vendors, and others having
business with the school district to conduct themselves at all times so as to provide an atmosphere free
from sexual harassment. Any person who engages in sexual harassment, in matters over which the board
has jurisdiction, shall be in violation of this policy.
Sexual harassment may include, by way of example only:
Sex-oriented verbal joking, harassment or abuse
Pressure for sexual activity
Suggesting or demanding sexual involvement accompanied by implied or explicit statements, threats or
promises concerning one’s grades, employment status, or similar personal concerns
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•
•
•
3.
4.
Any unwelcome touching, such as patting, pinching or constant brushing against another’s body
Repeated remarks with sexual or demeaning implications
Any conduct or communication which is of a sexual nature, or has sexual connotations or overtones, and
which is unwelcome by the person or persons subject to the conduct or communication
The Board recognizes that not every advance or consent of a sexual nature constitutes harassment.
Whether a particular action or incident is prohibited by policy or law requires that the district
administration make a determination based on all the facts and surrounding circumstances. While it is the
purpose of this policy to protect all persons associated with this school district from sexual harassment, it
shall also be a violation of this policy to make knowingly a false allegation of sexual harassment against
any member of the school community.
Any person found to be in violation of this policy is subject to discipline, including, but not limited to
reprimand, probation, demotion, suspension, expulsion, termination, or cessation of business.
SHARED DECISION MAKING
Any employee or group of employees can bring a proposal before all staff for consideration. The presenter(s)
have fifteen uninterrupted minutes for presentation. The staff is then asked these questions (voting by raising
hands):
•
If you were to vote now, are you clear on what you’re voting on? (If yes—next question, if no—10
more minutes for clarification).
•
Are you ready to vote now? (If yes—next question, if no—the body decides on when to reconvene
to vote).
•
Are you in favor of the proposal as stated?
SPECIAL EDUCATION
The district is required to locate, identify and evaluate all children birth through 21 years of age who are
disabled and who may be in need of special education services.
This includes:
•
•
•
•
•
children from birth through five,
children attending district schools,
children attending private schools whose parents live within the Adams Twelve Five Star Schools
boundaries,
children who move often (such as migrant and homeless), and
children out of school who are dropouts.
All district employees have the responsibility for locating disabled children living within the bound-aries of the
Adams Twelve Five Star Schools.
Problem Solving Team
Any person who has an educational concern about a student may bring the concern to the attention of the
school's Problem Solving Team (Not to be confused with the RTI team). The purpose of the team is to problemsolve situations in which students are having problems in the classroom. Once a person shares a concern about a
student's performance in the classroom, the team will (a) explore different strategies to help the student, (b)
assign responsibilities, (c) establish a timeline to implement and evaluate the strategies.
In the event that documented strategies and interventions have been attempted and fail to help the student's
educational performance, a special education testing process may be started, with the consent of parents. The
testing process should not be longer than 45 school days and will include an examination of the following six
areas:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Educational Performance,
Physical Functioning, including vision and hearing and movement,
Cognitive Functioning, which includes intelligence, judgment, problem solving, learning rate, adapting to
change, and organization,
Social/Emotional Functioning, including behaviors in the home, school and community that slow down or
block learning, or that of other students,
Communicative Functioning, such as speech and language performance,
Life Skills/Career/Transitional Functioning, including how a student performs in the areas of vocation,
recreation/leisure, domestic/community, and independent living.
50
Formal test results along with other test information and input from classroom teachers and parents will be used
to identify student needs and determine special education eligibility. In the event that a student meets state
guidelines for eligibility, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be developed and implemented. The IEP
will detail strategies, services and supports which the team feels are necessary to properly help the student.
For additional information about your school's Problem Solving Team and special education program, please
contact Janet Miller or a special education staff member at THS.
The district is committed to developing a collaborative working relationship between parents and staff, and we
want to involve parents to the fullest extent possible. We expect our teachers and other staff members to make
sure parents understand the reasons for meetings and fully understand the content of any discussions about their
children. We expect our staff to encourage active participation from parents.
The Department of Special Education works with a Special Education Advisory Committee, a group of parents
who advise the Director of Special Education. These parents are knowledgeable about programs and services in
the Adams County Five Star School District which are designed to meet the needs of exceptional students,
ensure and encourage parental involvement and serve as a liaison with the community. If you are interested in
additional information about the Special Education Advisory Committee, please contact the Department of
Special Education at (720) 972-4770.
STEREO/SOUND SYSTEMS
There are several stereo sound systems located throughout the building. Systems are located in the Field House,
Student Commons, weight room, the music rooms and the Auditorium. These systems must only be operated
by trained staff members. Students may operate this equipment only under direct supervision of a trained staff
member.
STUDENT COMMONS
The following rules apply to the Student Commons for all students throughout the day.
•
The commons is designated for quiet study. Students who are not engaged in quiet study will be asked to
move to DECA or go outside.
•
Students must have their IDs visible at all times.
•
All rules of conduct as listed in the Student Handbook will be enforced.
•
No food or drink of ANY kind is allowed on the carpeted area in the commons.
STUDENT/STAFF
IDENTIFICATION CARDS
Campus security is a high priority at Thornton High School. Student ID’s help identify students on school
grounds, allow students to check out materials from the LMC, serve as bus passes, internet privilege, etc.
All students must have a valid ID card issued by the school. These are issued to students free of charge at the
beginning of the year. Replacement fee for lost cards is $5. Staff ID’s allow students to become familiar with all
staff members and model what is expected of students. All staff and students are required to wear school
issued ID’s in a visible location above the waist at all times while at Thornton High School.
STUDENT PROGRESS
Superintendent Policy Code: 6310
STUDENT RECORDS
In accordance with federal law and School Board Policy, parents or legal guardians may inspect the records of
their students. The school reserves the right to have appropriate staff present to interpret the contents of the
records. In accordance with school district policy, parents may challenge, in writing, the contents of the
records.
Student records may be released to the following persons:
•
Parents or legal guardians (for those under 18)
•
Students (18 and over)
•
Officers or employees of public, private, or parochial schools in which the student has requested
enrollment.
•
The Colorado Commissioner of Education or the district superintendent and members of their staff.
•
Law officers and court officials with appropriate release forms. In addition, records shall be furnished in
compliance with a judicial order or pursuant to any lawfully issued request.
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•
A recruiting officer for any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Staff members must view student records in the Records Office.
Suicide Prevention
Protecting the health and well-being of all students is of utmost importance to the Adams
12 Five Star School District. Superintendent Policy 5520 addresses suicide assessments
as a priority to protect all students.
Adams 12 will treat all threats or attempted suicides as serious regardless of the degree of
lethality involved. When a student threatens or attempts suicide, the Adams 12 personnel
will follow Superintendent Policy and respond accordingly.
The following steps have been taken to help protect all students:
1. Students will learn about recognizing and responding to warning signs of suicide in
friends, using coping skills, using support systems, and seeking help for themselves and
friends.
2. When a student is identified as being at risk, he or she will be assessed by a District
mental health professional that will work with the student and help connect the student to
appropriate local resources.
3. Students will have access to national resources which they can contact for additional
support, such as:
• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline –
1.800.273.8255 (TALK),
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
• The Trevor Lifeline – 1.866.488.7386
www.thetrevorproject.org
4. All students will be expected to help create a school culture of respect and support in
which students feel comfortable seeking help for themselves or friends. Students are
encouraged to tell any staff member if they, or a friend, are feeling suicidal or in need of
help.
5. Students should also know that because of the health and safety impacts of these
matters, the confidentiality and privacy rights of individuals will be respected but
concerns are secondary to seeking help for students in crisis.
6. For a more detailed review of District processes, please see the District’s full suicide
prevention guidelines document.
SUPERVISION
Teachers will be asked to help supervise the building for safety and security issues. After obtaining input from
teachers, the Assistant Principal over Attendance and Discipline will publish a final schedule.
It is imperative that all assigned staff members perform their supervision duties as required in order to
positively impact the safety and climate standards we have set for our building.
SURVEYS
Surveys must be age appropriate, relevant to the curriculum being taught, have a clear educational purpose, and
be shared with parents.
SYLLABUS/COVER SHEET
During the first week of class, teachers will distribute to each of their students a copy of the course syllabus.
All teachers will use the Thornton High School syllabus template provided by the AP of Curriculum. With the
exception of Website and Blog, all sections of the syllabus must be completed. In addition it’s recommended
you include the following:
•
Department content standards/essential learn-ings
•
Course objectives
•
A summary of instructional material used
•
A summary of instructional methods
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Expectations of student work and participation
Plagiarism and Cheating policies
Homework policy
Make-up work (how to obtain and time limitations)
Attendance and tardy policy
When and where help is available
Space for parent/guardian to provide an email address
TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK DAY
Each year THS participates in Take Your Child to Work Day. The purpose is to help young people make
connections between education and a future in the workplace.
Regarding attendance, THS will demonstrate support for this national event by recording this day in Infinite
Campus for participating girls and boys as a field trip (“out of building activity”) with no absence recorded.
Parents should verify their intent to have their child accompany them at work through a written note or by
calling the school attendance clerk. The opportunity to make up work should be in accordance with Policy
5020, as with any excused absence. In lieu of makeup work, some schools ask students who shadow their
parents to provide a brief summary following the shadow experience.
General guidelines:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The absence to shadow a parent at work should not count against a student’s perfect attendance status.
Participation in extracurricular activities after school should be determined consistent with participation in
other school-sanctioned field trips.
Parents may not “substitute” another day in lieu of the April date and still have the absence counted as a
field trip. Standard excused/unexcused guidelines would apply to situations involving a parent request to
have a child shadow on a day other than the designated April date.
Requests by employees to bring their children are at the discretion of the supervisor. Typically, such
requests are granted unless the supervisor determines that the child’s presence would pose a safety risk due
to the nature of the employee’s job duties, or would otherwise be likely to interfere with the employee’s
ability to perform his or her duties appropriately.
Employees may bring only their own children and they must be either in Middle School or between the
ages of 12-15.
TEACHER/STUDENT ASSISTANTS
Students may sign up to be a teacher’s assistant or an assistant in one of the various school offices during one of
their free periods. Students may not drop a class in order to become a student assistant. Interested students may
sign up in the Counseling Office during the first week of each quarter. Students will earn .25 credit for being a
student assistant and will be graded on a pass/fail basis. The following guidelines must be followed:
•
•
•
•
•
One student assistant per block unless approved by administration
Students may not have access to Infinite Campus gradebooks or teacher passwords, etc.
Attendance must be taken daily
Students should not be sent on personal errands
Student assistants should not be off school grounds during their assigned period.
TELEPHONE/EMERGENCY MESSAGES
Classroom and teacher office phones are for staff use only. Staff is asked to direct incoming personal calls, for
non-emergencies, to your office phone/voice mail.
TEMPORARY LEAVE
When it is necessary to be absent from a teaching assignment for workshops, meetings called by the district,
training, etc., for which funds have been provided for a substitute, it is necessary to complete a Professional
Activity Form.
This form should be completed and submitted to the Main Office at least two weeks prior to the absence. It is
the responsibility of the person taking the leave to make arrangements for a substitute by contacting the Sub
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Office at 720-972-4082 or by using the on-line system. Appropriate substitute information and materials should
be left in the Main Office with the receptionist the day prior to the leave.
Substitute Procedures
In preparation for an absence from school for a professional/sick/personal day, plan as completely as possible to
allow your substitute the best opportunity for success.
Register your absence on-line or call the substitute line (720-972-4082) as soon as you know you will need a
substitute, but no later than 5:30 a.m. on the date of your absence. (The sub recorder is on 24 hours a day.) If a
request for a same-day substitute is made after 5:30 a.m., you also need to notify the receptionist in the Main
Office. When calling for a same-day substitute, you must enter the current date. It is imperative to complete all
steps on the substitute line. Wait for the System to say the Job Number, which completes entry of the
absence/request.
When advance notice is possible, notify the office manager in the Main Office and discuss with her the location
of your lesson plans and anyone who can serve as a resource. An emergency lesson plan should be available on
file in the Main Office.
THORNTON LEADERSHIP COUNCIL—See School Improvement Team
TOBACCO USE
The following is the Board of Education Policy 3740 on tobacco use:
“Effective August 1, 1989, the use of tobacco products at any school-sponsored event or activity and on all
School District #12 property, including all district buildings, district grounds, district-owned and leased
vehicles, and sites leased by the district, shall be prohibited. This policy applies to all on-duty employees,
students, visitors and all other members of the public.”
The Board of Education Administrative Procedure 4145.3 and Article 34 (Section 34.1) of the Certified
Management Agreement and Article 9 (Section 9.3) of the Classified Management Agreement deal with
procedures for violation of the policy.
VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN
AND CLASS RANK
The following procedures, developed with input from staff, students, and parents, will be in effect for selection
of salutatorian and valedictorian.
There will be a valedictorian and a salutatorian for the International Baccalaureate program and a valedictorian
and salutatorian for those students enrolled in Regular Curriculum classes and/or Advanced Placement classes.
To be considered for valedictorian and salutatorian the candidate must be a full-time student for both semesters
of the senior year. To determine the valedictorian and salutatorian for the International Baccalaureate program,
grades will be unweighted and GPA calculated. This avoids penalizing those students who choose to take
additional classes, which are unweighted. To determine the valedictorian and salutatorian in the regular
curriculum, GPA as calculated, including those classes with weighted grades, will be used. Regular Education
students must take a minimum of two Advanced Placement courses or their equivalent (e.g., Level 3 courses) to
be considered for valedictorian or salutatorian.
For the purpose of determining class rank, total GPA's including weighted and unweighted courses will be used.
A separate class rank will be figured for the total student population including IB students, and another class
rank will be figured for the non-IB student population. This will allow those students who are not in IB the
opportunities associated with scholarships and college entrance that might be denied them because of class rank.
Students who drop from the International Baccalaureate Program after the beginning of their junior year will
remain in the calculation of GPA’s in the IB Program, and will not be eligible for consideration for
valedictorian or salutatorian in the regular education program.
Junior attendants will be selected based on GPA, which will be unweighted for those in the IB program and
weighted for those in regular education classes. There will be junior attendants from both IB and non-IB
curriculums.
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Currently, valedictorians and salutatorians are determined based on the final GPA's at the end of the students'
high school career.
Students using grade replacement will be ineligible for consideration of salutatorian and/or valedictorian.
VALUABLES
Teachers are responsible for the security of any valuable items they may have at school. Please keep your
valuables locked up in file cabinets, wardrobes, etc.
VAN USAGE
The following rules apply to the use of school district vans. In order to qualify to drive a van, you must:
a) View a training video. The video may be checked out from the Athletic Secretary.
b) Take the written test and pass with proficiency.
c) Secure a copy of your Motor Vehicle Report.
d) Submit to a drug test.
e) Turn in all forms to the Athletic Secretary.
In order to secure a van you must:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Inform the Athletic Secretary of your activity date/time and check the Master Calendar for conflicts.
Make plans to charge students the amount of the trip. This includes talking to the bookkeeper to make
arrangements to deposit the funds. Remember that all field trips need to be self-supporting; funding is not
available. All necessary forms are in the main and Attendance Offices and should be completed two
weeks prior to the trip.
The pre/post trip inspection sheet and the log sheet must be completed each time a van is used. Forms and
keys are located with the logbook that you will receive when you pick the van up from the Transportation
Annex.
All problems (fender benders, regardless of how minor) are to be reported immediately to the
Transportation Annex.
Check for any damage or mischievous behavior (i.e. unscrewing seat bolts, writing on walls) and take
disciplinary action accordingly.
All trash must be removed from the van.
Return vans with no less than ¾ tank of gas. Vans should be fueled at the Transportation Annex unless
other arrangements are made.
Vans must be returned, after each use, to the district Transportation Annex.
According to state statute and school board policy, a sponsor may transport students a maximum of 18
times during the school year without having a bus driver’s license.
WORK WEEK
While certified staff does not keep time sheets as they are not eligible for flex, comp, or overtime, it is
understood that certified staff need to complete their job responsibilities in a professional and appropriate
manner. Certified staff members work an 8-hour day with individuals arriving no later than 7:10 a.m. and
leaving 8 hours later. It is important that students and parents are able to access certified staff during the
regularly scheduled day.
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Computer/Technology Checklist
Not OK:
CD/DVD players in school
computers used for a student's
personal enjoyment
Using media player to listen to songs
on 'internet radio,' streaming audio or
video files of any kind
Internet (non-THS) email
(Yahoo Mail; Hotmail; Gmail; AOL
Mail; Larry Joe or Curly Mail; etc.)
Watch music videos
Listen to streaming music online
Chatting / Instant messaging /
participating in online forums unsupervised. Classroom activities
of this variety may be appropriate
Abuse of equipment
Why:
CD's get broken easily; cannot install
programs; use language (we have
French, German, and Spanish)
programs that require disks. They
can use their own players, batteries,
and headphones if you want them to
have that privilege.
Takes bandwidth (makes system
slow) for academic use. Students
often reconnect the cords to
accommodate their needs, and do not
reconnect them.
Viruses; we cannot monitor/filter
what is transpiring or going on within
the school day through the use of our
equipment. This includes
harassment, party notifications,
threats, etc.
Takes bandwidth (makes system
slow) for academic use. Not
appropriate use of school computers
if not used for educational purposes.
Takes bandwidth (makes system
slow) for academic use.
Viruses; we can monitor/filter what
is transpiring or going on within the
school day through the use of our
equipment. This includes
harassment, party notifications,
threats, etc.
It is for everyone to use and no one
to destroy.
Computer/Technology Checklist
OK:
Gmail
Infinite Campus
Why:
Students can see their progress reports,
collaborate with teachers, collaborate
on group projects, transport files
between school and home/library/etc.
Use sounds for a presentation
Perfect use of sound on a computer.
Create
That's why we have computers
documents/presentations/websites
available for students to use!
Research for school work/projects
That's why we have computers
available for students to use!
Research about colleges and/or jobs and That's why we have computers
careers
available for students to use!
I am sure you can all think of more uses and misuses of the computers - do what makes
sense!
56
DISTRICT POLICIES, NOTIFICATIONS
&
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS
2014-2015
About This Document
This document is provided as a resource to parents and students within the Adams 12 Five Star
School District. It includes multiple notifications required by Superintendent’s Policy, Board Policy
or by state or federal law. Answers to other common questions are also included for your
convenience. Readers should be aware that:
•
Much of the information is in summary form.
•
Current policies in their entirety, including revisions which may have occurred after
publication of this handbook, are available on the district website at www.adams12.org.
•
Policies may also be reviewed in the administrative office of any district school or by
calling the Adams 12 Educational Support Center at 720-972-4000.
•
Policies are subject to change as necessary at any time during the school year.
•
Students are expected to be knowledgeable about and comply with district and school
policies, including ones which may not be included in this publication.
•
•
Notice of Non-Discrimination Under Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, Age Discrimination
Act, Title II of the American with Disabilities Act (Supt. Policies 4140, 8400)
•
Adams 12 Five Star Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age,
religion, creed, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation and disability in its
programs, activities, operations and employment decisions and provides equal access to
the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been
designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:
•
General Counsel
•
Adams 12 Five Star Schools
•
1500 East 128th Avenue
•
Thornton, CO 80241
•
720-972-4004
57
Appeals or Grievances
Students or parents who wish to appeal a decision or discuss a grievance are asked to
respectfully address the matter directly to the staff member who made the decision prior
to seeking assistance from the staff member’s supervisor, the principal or from District
staff. Questions regarding grades, credits, attendance records or student discipline are
best addressed at the building level.
Board policy 2.1 provides students, families or community members the right to be heard
by the Board when internal hearing procedures have been exhausted and the person
alleges that Board policy has been violated to his or her detriment. The policy forbids
retaliation against anyone who appeals a decision or files a grievance in a non-disruptive
manner.
Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Annual Legal
Notification
In accordance with the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Asbestos
Hazard Emergency Response Act, the District has Asbestos Management Plans available for
review at each school and the Educational Support Center, 1500 E. 128th Avenue in Thornton, CO,
80241. Contact the Environmental Health and Safety Specialist, with any questions. Telephone:
720-972-4236.
Assessments
The District administers a variety of assessments to measure student learning and
improve curriculum and instruction. We strive to implement a balanced system that
provides an understanding of how well the student, the school and the school district are
achieving. Common assessments include:
Assessment for learning occurs during teaching and learning and focuses on ongoing
improvement. Teachers check student understanding through in-class work, homework,
quizzes, etc. These assessments are on-going, so teachers can modify lessons to make
sure students are learning. Students receive feedback on an ongoing basis about how well
they are doing, where they are in their learning and where they are going.
Assessment of learning gathers information about how well students have mastered what
they should know at their grade level. The TCAP (the Colorado Student Assessment
Program) is this kind of test. This state-mandated testing program measures what students
have already learned and provides accountability to parents and the community. The
TCAP Reading, Writing and Math assessments are administered in the spring of each
year in grades 3 through 10. The TCAP Science assessment is administered in grade 5, 8
and 10.
A complete District Assessment Calendar including information about other assessments
will be available at your school’s counseling or administrative office. The Assessment
Calendar also includes information about beginning, mid and end-of-year assessments.
Attendance
Superintendent’s Policy 5020 provides specific guidelines regarding student attendance.
The policy describes acceptable reasons for absences, makeup work procedures and
potential sanctions for poor attendance. Colorado law (22-33-104 C.R.S.) regarding
compulsory attendance requires students to attend school from the age of 6 until their 17th
birthday. Please be aware that the district partners closely with local juvenile courts to
intervene in the cases of students whose poor attendance constitutes “habitual truancy”,
58
defined by Colorado law as having four (4) or more unexcused absences in a month or
ten (10) or more unexcused absences during any calendar year period.
Bullying
Superintendent’s Policy 5115 addresses the negative impact that bullying has on student
health, welfare and safety and on the learning environment. Bullying, as defined by state
law, is any written or verbal expression, or physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof,
intended to cause distress upon one or more students.
Bullying based upon a student’s race, gender, religion or creed, national origin, sexual
orientation, or disability may actually constitute harassment. Harassment is specifically
prohibited by Superintendent Policy 8400 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), a summary
of which may be found elsewhere in this book.
All administrators, teachers, classified staff, parents and students shall take all reasonable
steps to prevent and / or address bullying.
1.
Students who have been bullied should report the situation to an
administrator or teacher.
2.
Students who witness bullying should report it to a staff member.
3.
School staff who witness bullying should take action to stop the bullying
and to report the situation for appropriate administrative intervention.
4.
School administrators should promptly investigate and respond to
bullying reports.
Students who bully others will be subject to disciplinary action as described in
Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of Conduct. In addition to discipline
sanctions, schools may implement intervention strategies as appropriate.
Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Devices
Superintendent’s Policy 5030 permits the use of electronic devices for personal,
recreational, communication or instructional purposes under specific conditions.
Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including
expulsion from school, depending upon the severity of the violation.
In academic settings (classroom, library, labs, etc) electronic devices must be in the “off”
or “silent” position at all times and stored out of sight except when utilized, as permitted
by the instructor, as assistive technology, or as part of a student’s individual education
program as determined by school administration or the teacher. Teachers may impose
even further restrictions at their discretion in their class.
In non-academic settings, including at school activities or on school transportation, such
devices may be used in “silent mode” provided the use of such device, as determined by
the supervising staff member or bus driver, in no way disrupts, poses a safety concern or
otherwise violates Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of Conduct.
Electronic devices may not be used in a manner which is potentially unsafe, illegal or
otherwise might violate the Student Code of Conduct. Prohibited uses include but are not
limited to creating video or audio recordings, or taking or sending photographs of
students or staff without permission of the student(s) or staff member(s). Such devices
may not be used for academic dishonesty or cheating. Such devices may not be used in
any manner that disrupts the academic environment, or otherwise disrupts school
activities or functions. Students may not depart a class to activate or operate such
devices.
59
The typical progression of consequences for violations as described in the policy
includes:
1st offense. The device should be confiscated and the parent should be notified. The
device may be released to the student after the student reviews and signs the policy.
2nd offense. The device should be confiscated and the parent should be notified. The
device may be released only to the parent after the parent reviews and signs the policy.
3rd or more offenses. Such offenses are considered disruptive behavior and should result
in a minimum of one day of suspension to be served in or out of school at the discretion
of administration. Subsequent violations may result in increasing suspensions of up to
three (3) days.
Under all circumstances students shall be personally and solely responsible for the
security of their cell phones and personal electronic devices. Adams 12 Five Star Schools
shall not assume responsibility for theft, loss, or damage of any such device and will not
be responsible for investigation of such incidents.
If unique circumstances exist warranting the need for a student to use a cell phone or
personal electronic device, on a temporary basis, outside the guidelines of
Superintendent’s Policy 5030, such requests should be submitted to the Principal in
writing. The Principal’s decision regarding such requests will be final.
Community Use of District Facilities
District facilities are made available on an equal basis for use by community
organizations when the buildings are not otherwise being used for school purposes.
Superintendent’s Policy 1300 provides guidelines related to reservations and use of
district facilities by community members. The policy is available on the District website.
Questions regarding facility use and reservations may be directed to 720-972-4337.
Use of Corporal Punishment, Restraint or Physical Force
Superintendent’s Policy 5140 prohibits the use of corporal punishment by any staff
member. Corporal punishment is defined as spanking or physically handling a student in
any way to purposefully inflict punishment. Permission to administer corporal
punishment shall not be sought nor accepted from any parent, guardian, or school official.
Superintendent’s Policy 5150 permits district personnel, acting within the scope of
employment, to use and apply restraint or force as is reasonable and necessary to restrain
or prevent a student from an act of wrongdoing; to quell a disturbance threatening
physical injury to others; to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects; for
the purpose of self-defense; for the protection of persons or property; and for the
preservation of order or student safety.
Law enforcement shall act consistent with their agency guidelines regarding restraint or
force when safety is at issue.
Extracurricular Activities and Sports
Students are provided a variety of opportunities to participate in school-sponsored
extracurricular activities. Activities may occur before or after school and may require
parents to sign permission forms, pay fees and/or to provide transportation to and from
the activity. For safety and supervision reasons it is important that students arrive and be
picked up promptly at prescribed times.
60
Participation in extracurricular activities including sports may require students to meet
attendance, academic and behavior eligibility standards.
Please visit with the
administration, sponsor or coach for answers to specific eligibility questions.
Gangs, Secret Societies and Disruptive Groups
School districts are required by Colorado law to adopt policies regarding gang-related
activities in school. Superintendent’s Policy 5080 defines a gang, secret society or
disruptive group as a group of three or more individuals, whether formal or informal,
sharing a common name, interest, bond, confederation, alliance, initiation practice,
network, conspiracy, or activity characterized by criminal or delinquent conduct, whose
members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of such
activity.
Wearing, displaying or possessing items that signify identification with disruptive groups
is prohibited on school campuses, at all school-sponsored activities, on all school
transportation, and at all school bus stops. Any evidence reasonably demonstrating the
existence of or membership in any disruptive group shall be admissible in any
disciplinary action or proceeding brought by the District.
Examples of prohibited items, behaviors or actions which may be indicative of gang,
secret society or disruptive group affiliation include but are not limited to:
1.
Colors / Numbers – A common color or number used to represent affiliation
with the disruptive group. Colors and numbers may be represented through, but
not limited to, clothing, bandanas, nail polish, sports logos/apparel, make-up, or
other items that display a “color” or number on a person or possession.
2.
Signs – Verbal or Physical – Statements, gestures, signals, or signs flashed by
individuals either to members of their own disruptive group as communication
or identification, or intended as taunts or challenges to others.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Graffiti – A drawing, symbol, phrase, cryptic writing, code, icon, logo, or
written word used to express opinions, membership in a disruptive group
or gang, about other groups or gangs, or direct challenges to others.
Apparel / Jewelry – Hats, bandanas, emblems, trademarks, badges, insignias,
logos, belts, belt buckles, colored shoe strings, jewelry or other clothing that
identify the individual with the disruptive group and/or that carries meaning for
the disruptive group.
Manner of Grooming – Tattoos, hairstyles, and other unifying marks (i.e.
manner of shaving, piercings) indicative of affiliation with or that carries
meaning for a disruptive group.
Recruitment – Action to knowingly solicit, to invite, recruit, encourage, coerce,
or otherwise cause another to actively participate in or become a member of a
disruptive group. Furthermore, recruitment also includes the use of force, threat,
or intimidation directed at any person, or by the infliction of bodily injury upon
any person, thereby preventing the individual from leaving a disruptive group.
Action up to and including expulsion from school may be considered for any single
violation of this policy depending upon the nature of the offense, the severity of the
situation, and the student’s discipline history. Unless the student has a prior discipline
61
history, or unless other policy violations or safety concerns exist, the typical progression
of consequences for violations of this policy are:
1.
1st Offense – warning and education about the policy, school based sanctions
including suspension up to three (3) days out of school, and a requirement that
student and parent review and sign a statement indicating their understanding of
this policy.
2.
2nd Offense – a minimum of three (3) days out-of-school suspension and a
required parent meeting as a condition of re-entry for the purpose of reviewing
this policy and the consequences of future violations.
3.
3rd or Subsequent Offenses – up to a 10-day out-of-school suspension and
potential expulsion from school.
4.
All violations of this policy which involve violence, threats of violence, or an
immediate risk to the safety of students or staff shall result in suspension out-ofschool for a minimum of three (3) days.
Health Services
Allergies, Immunizations and Medications at School
The school district provides registered nurses to train, delegate, and monitor various
school staff on health procedures needed for students during the school day. The
registered nurses also provide consultation to school staff and/or parents on medical
concerns and often serve as medical liaisons between schools and outside agencies.
A trained health aide staffs the School Health Office. The health aide is responsible for
providing minor first aid to students who become sick or are injured while at school, for
administering prescribed medications, and for maintaining student health records. Other
designated staff members may provide coverage in the health office when the school
health aide is not available.
For more information about support for students with health needs please refer to the
policies referenced or contact the District’s Coordinator of Section 504 and Health
Services at720-972-7107.
Homeless Students Notification (Supt. Policy 5270)
Specific rights and protections are ensured to parents, children and youth experiencing
homelessness as defined under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. For more
information about services for homeless students refer to Superintendent Policy 5270 or contact the
Homeless/Migrant Education Liaison at 720 972-4144.
Emergency Health Concerns
If your child is seriously injured or ill at school and requires care beyond the facilities of
the school, an attempt will be made to contact you as well as calling emergency medical
personnel (911) for treatment and/or transportation to a proper facility.
Illness or Injury at School
When a child becomes ill or is injured at school the health aide or other school staff will
determine if your child can remain at school safely. Schools do not have adequate
facilities or staffing to keep ill children at school for long periods of time. Therefore, it is
essential that parents immediately inform schools of address and phone number changes.
62
Illness Outside of School
Children should typically be kept home if the following symptoms are present. If you
have questions, or are unsure of whether to keep your child home from school please
consult with your physician, or call your school health aide or district registered nurse.
1.
Rashes –Child should stay home unless a note provided by doctor
states the rash is not contagious or until the rash resolves on its own.
2. Vomiting and Diarrhea –Child should stay home until symptom-free
for one day.
3. Fever of 100 or more – Child should stay home until fever free for 24
hours.
4. Strep Throat – Child may return after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment
and when symptom-free.
5. Common Cold – Keep your child at home if your child is not “feeling
well”, has a fever, has a lot of nasal discharge, or has a persistent
cough.
6. “Pink Eye” (Conjunctivitis) – Child should stay home until physician
determines the infection is not contagious.
7. Impetigo – Child should stay home until your physician advises their
return.
8. Chicken Pox – Child should stay home for approximately one week
after symptoms appear or until all papules (water-filled lesions) are
scabbed or crusted over.
9. Persistent Cough – Child should stay home if the cough is persistent or
disrupts class.
10. Untreated drainage from a wound, eye or ear infection – Child should
stay home until physician advises his or her return.
In general, if you are unsure whether or not to send your child to school, you should keep
your child home for a day. Please let the school know any time your child has a
communicable disease or serious illness.
Notification of Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) &
Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) (Supt. Policy 5300)
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.
2.
The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records, that the parent or
eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the
student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the
School to amend a record should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of
the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. 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. Additional information regarding the
63
hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the
right to a hearing.
3.
The right to privacy of personally identifiable information 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 is a person employed by the
District as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but
not limited to paraprofessionals, transportation personnel, health and law enforcement
unit personnel and before-and-after-school program personnel); a member of the school
board; a person, agency or company with whom the District has contracted, or otherwise
arranged to perform a specific task or service; 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.
Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of
another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled
if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
4.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by the District 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
Additionally, the Colorado Open Records Act generally requires education records to be
furnished within 3 days of the day the School receives a request for access.
Notification of Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) &
Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) (Supt. Policy 5300)
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.
2.
The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records, that the parent or
eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the
student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the
School to amend a record should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of
the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. 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. Additional 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 privacy of personally identifiable information 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 is a person employed by the
District as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but
64
not limited to paraprofessionals, transportation personnel, health and law enforcement
unit personnel and before-and-after-school program personnel); a member of the school
board; a person, agency or company with whom the District has contracted, or otherwise
arranged to perform a specific task or service; 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.
Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of
another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled
if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
5.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by the District 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
Additionally, the Colorado Open Records Act generally requires education records to be
furnished within 3 days of the day the School receives a request for access.
FERPA Notice for Directory Information (Supt. Policy 5300)
FERPA requires that the District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent
prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records.
However, the District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without
written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District
procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the District to include this
type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples
include:
• A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
• The annual yearbook;
• Honor roll or other recognition lists;
• Graduation programs; and
• 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 a parent’s
prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that
manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local
educational agencies (LEAs) 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 parents have advised the LEA that
they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want the District to disclose directory information from your child’s
education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District Records
Custodian, 1500 East 128th Avenue, Thornton, CO 80241 in writing by October 1 of the current
school year. The District has designated the following information as directory information:
• Student’s name
• Student’s Grade
• Photograph
• Dates of attendance
• Participation in officially recognized activities & sports
65
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• Major field of study
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
• Date and place of birth
• The most recent previous educational agency or institution attended
Student Sex Offenders (Supt. Policy 5900)
Colorado Revised Statute 22-1-124 instructs school districts to notify parents of their
right to request information concerning registered sex offenders in the community. More
information on accessing such information may be obtained online at either of the following:
http://dcj.state.co.us/odvsom/Sex_Offender/SO_Pdfs/schoolresourceguideregistration.pdf
OR
http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdeprevention/download/pdf/School_Sex_Offender_Guide.pdf
Superintendent Policy 5900 provides more information about this topic. For additional
information parents may also contact the District’s Manager of Security Services at 720-972-4256.
Notification of Rights under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (Supt. Policy
6510)
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents certain rights
regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and
certain physical exams. These include the right to:
• Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the
following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in
part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)–
1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or
ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
•Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –
1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of
attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the
immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis
screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained
from students for marketin
Obtaining Sex Offender Information
Colorado Revised Statute 22-1-124 instructs school districts to notify parents of their
right to request information concerning registered sex offenders in the community. More
information on accessing such information may be obtained online at either of the
following:
http://dcj.state.co.us/odvsom/Sex_Offender/SO_Pdfs/schoolresourceguideregistration.pdf
OR
http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdeprevention/download/pdf/School_Sex_Offender_Guide.pdf
66
Superintendent’s Policy 5900 provides more information about this topic. For additional
information parents may also contact the District’s Manager of Security Services at 720972-4256.
Parking and Driving on District Property
Parents and students who drive or park on campus are expected operate their vehicle in a
safe manner complying with all signs and parking only in appropriately designated areas.
Failure to follow parking and driving guidelines may result in warnings, vehicles being
towed, referrals to law enforcement or loss of the privilege of driving on campus.
Students may also face discipline sanctions for driving violations on campus that
jeopardize the safety of others.
Information about parking fees and regulations for high school students is provided in
each high school’s handbook.
Post-Secondary Enrollment Options
Students in their junior or senior year of high school may be eligible to enroll for
coursework in a state institution of higher education, with costs reimbursed by the
District, provided specific eligibility and academic criteria are satisfied. Parents and
students interested in more information about post-secondary enrollment options are
encouraged to review participation guidelines described in Superintendent’s Policy 6285
or to request information in the Counseling Offices.
Removal of Disruptive Students by a Classroom Teacher
To the extent authorized by Colorado law, a classroom teacher has the authority to
remove a student who disrupts the educational environment of the classroom for the
remainder of that class. Upon a third such removal from class, teachers are given
authority to remove the student from class for the remainder of the term, so long as such
removal is consistent with federal and state law, and with due process and intervention
procedures established in Superintendent’s Policy 5015. The policy in its entirety is
available on the District’s website at www.adams12.org or is available in hard copy at the
administrative office of each school.
Search and Seizure
Superintendent’s Policy 5130 authorizes district officials to conduct a search when on
school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased or otherwise used by the district or school, or
at a school activity, when there is a reasonable suspicion that the search will result in the
discovery of "contraband," which includes all substances or materials prohibited by
district/school policy or state law including, but not limited to, drugs, drug paraphernalia,
alcoholic beverages, guns, knives, weapons, incendiary devices, and dangerous items.
Under conditions specified in policy, automobiles parked on or being operated on school
property or at a school activity may also be subject to search by school officials.
When possible, an involved student shall be informed of the reason for a search, and the
official conducting the search shall attempt to secure the student's consent to the search.
The scope of a search must be no more intrusive than is reasonably necessary under the
circumstances.
Inappropriate items found during the course of a search may be seized and at the
discretion of school administration such items may be returned to the parent or guardian
67
of the student from whom the items were seized; offered as evidence in any suspension or
expulsion proceeding if they are tagged for identification at the time seized; turned over
to law enforcement officers; or destroyed.
Many district secondary schools utilize random canine searches from time to time to
deter students from bringing contraband on district property. Such searches involve
trained dogs and their handlers scanning property or general areas, but never individuals.
Should a dog alert its handler to the possible presence of contraband, the handler would
notify school officials. A canine alert constitutes reasonable suspicion for school
officials to conduct a search following the procedures established in Superintendent’s
Policy 5130.
Services for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities are afforded certain rights including those described in the
following notifications regarding “Section 504” and Special Education. Parents or
guardians who believe their child may have a disability requiring special
accommodations or support services may contact the administrative office of their child’s
school for more information about assessment and eligibility for such services.
Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act is a nondiscrimination statute barring
discrimination on the basis of one’s disability. It is the policy of Adams 12 Five Star
Schools not to discriminate on the basis of disability in its educational programs,
activities or employment policies as required by the Act. The Act requires Adams 12 Five
Star Schools to locate, evaluate and determine if the student is a qualified individual
requiring accommodation necessary to provide access to educational programs. Parents
are entitled to have the opportunity to review relevant educational records under the
Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Parents or guardians disagreeing
with the decisions reached by school personnel for accommodations necessary for access
to educational programming and/or facilities may request a hearing before an impartial
hearing officer by notifying the school principal.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 guarantees basic
rights and provides the framework for special education services. Every student between
the ages of 3 and 21 with a disability is assured a public education at no cost to the
parent. The public education is to be appropriate to the needs of the student. In addition,
students with disabilities must be educated in the least restrictive environment.
Student Code of Conduct
The District’s Student Code of Conduct Matrix provided in this booklet summarizes
student behavior expectations and the range of consequences for violations. The matrix
is intended as a quick reference guide. However, students are expected to be familiar and
comply with all expectations identified Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of
Conduct. Superintendent’s Policy 5010, Student Due Process, provides information
regarding district procedures for suspension (short and long term), expulsion and denial
of admission. Student conduct policies are available to all parents and students on the
District’s website or by request through the administrative office at each school.
Board Policy directs that student discipline methods be clear, timely and consistently
applied. Students should receive information about school discipline expectations within
the first four weeks of each school year. Students who arrive after the first month of
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school should receive information individually or in small groups as soon as possible
following enrollment.
Student Dress Code
In order to promote a safe environment that focuses on education and minimizes
distractions students are expected to abide by the following general guidelines as
identified in Superintendent’s Policy 5060.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Shirts must be fitted and long enough to naturally touch the top of the lower
garment and/or be tucked in;
shirts must cover the shoulders;
all attire should be sized to fit without exposing undergarments, buttocks,
stomachs or cleavage;
shorts and skirts must be fingertip length when arms are resting at sides;
shoes/sandals must be worn at all times.
The following items or clothing are specifically prohibited:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Spaghetti straps, tank tops (anything less than 1” wide) and halter tops;
transparent/mesh clothing;
make-up that makes a student unidentifiable;
exposed undergarments;
pajamas and house slippers;
shirts with revealing necklines or armholes;
shirts hanging longer than the fingertips when arms are fully extended;
sunglasses (prohibited indoors);
gloves (prohibited indoors);
hairnets, bandanas, and du-rags;
caps, athletic headbands and armbands (prohibited indoors except when the wearer
is participating in a sporting event);
12.
clothing or accessories that promote drugs, alcohol or tobacco either by brand
or message;
clothing or accessories with sexually suggestive language or messages;
clothing or accessories that promote violence, criminal activity, intimidation or
intolerance of others (based on religion, ethnicity, gender or lifestyle);
clothing or accessories that could readily be used as a weapon or might otherwise
injure the wearer, including items with spikes or loose hanging chains;
attire, accessories or manners of grooming indicative of affiliation with a gang,
secret society or disruptive group as defined in Superintendent’s Policy 5080. This
includes, but is not limited to clothing, gang-related colors or numbers, bandanas,
sports logos/apparel, make-up, hats, emblems, trademarks, badges, insignia, logos,
belt buckles, colored shoe strings, and jewelry;
trench coats and other like jackets capable of concealing weapons;
clothing or accessories affiliated with Insane Clown Posse, including all items
related to the band’s record label “Psychopathic Records” and other groups it
sponsors in addition to Insane Clown Posse, including but not limited to Twiztid,
Blaze, Boondox, Psychopathic Rydaz and Dark Lotus: and
all professional athletic team attire.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
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Dress guidelines for special events or school-sponsored purposes, including but not
limited to dances, extra-curricular activities, and fundraisers shall be at the discretion of
school administration based upon the nature of the particular event. Students may avoid
the risk of being asked to leave or change clothing at an event by having attire approved
in advance by an administrator.
Except when other contributing policy violations or safety concerns exist, the typical
progression of intervention for dress code violations is:
1st Offense – warning and education about the policy and the student being provided an
opportunity to correct the violation.
2nd Offense – sanctions up to one (1) day out-of-school suspension and requirement that
parent and student review and sign a statement indicating their understanding of the
“Student Dress Code” policy.
3rd Offense – sanctions up to three (3) days out-of-school suspension and required parent
meeting as a condition of re-entry.
4th or Subsequent Offenses – sanctions up to a 10-day out-of-school suspension for each
repeat violation.
Students’ Right to Expression
Superintendent’s Policy 5050 acknowledges students’ right to dissent peacefully,
including the right of legal protest through proper channels, provided such dissent does
not interfere with the educational process or result in harm to persons or property. Policy
6260 describes guidelines by which students may exercise expression in schoolsponsored publications. Students should be aware of their rights and responsibilities
according to the guidelines established in each policy.
Student School Records
In compliance with state and federal laws, Superintendent’s Policy 5300, Student School
Records, provides guidance for the development, use, release and maintenance of school
records.
Generally, student school records, or education records, are documents, files, records, and
other materials maintained by a school which contain information relating to a student,
including special education records. Student school records do not include the personal
notes or records of district personnel that are in the sole possession of the author and are
not revealed to anyone other than a substitute; employment records about a student who
is employed by the school district; or information obtained about a student after he/she is
no longer a student.
Challenging Records - Parents and eligible students (over age 18) have the right to inspect
and review their records, and / or to request that the school correct inaccurate or
misleading records; and to control the release of the record without consent except as
provided by law and district policy. If a parent or eligible student believes that the
student’s school records, including disciplinary records, contain inaccurate information,
are misleading, or are otherwise in violation of the privacy rights the party may submit a
written request for the record to be changed to the principal. A hearing may be
conducted, if necessary, provided the request is in accordance with guidelines outlined in
Superintendent’s Policy 5300.
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Disclosure of Records - Disclosure of education records will be made to a “school official”
who has a specific and legitimate educational interest in inspecting the records for use in
furthering the student’s academic achievement or maintaining a safe and orderly learning
environment. A “school official” is a person employed by the district as an administrator,
supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but not limited to,
paraprofessionals, transportation personnel, health and law enforcement unit personnel
and before-and-after-school program personnel; a member of the school board; a person,
agency or company with whom the district has contracted, or otherwise arranged to
perform a specific task or service; 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 “specific and legitimate educational interest” if the official needs
to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional and/or official
responsibility. The necessary interest will also be found where a staff member or
authorized volunteer works directly with students, and has a specific and actual need to
review education records to increase his/her awareness of steps necessary for the safety
and welfare of students and staff members. This provision applies whether or not the
school official receives compensation.
Upon request, the District discloses educational records without consent to officials of
another school district in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, or another agency
in accordance with state law or district policy.
Release of Information to Military Recruiters - The District will provide certain
information to recruiting officers for any branch of the U. S. Armed Forces, upon
requests from the officer, including names, addresses and home telephone numbers of
secondary school students. If a student does not want such information released, he/she
must submit a written request to the school’s principal asking that the information not be
disclosed to recruiters.
Release of Directory Information - The District may disclose “directory information”
which includes: student’s name, parents’ names, student’s date and place of birth, major
field of study, yearbook/athletic/co-curricular and extra-curricular activity photographs,
participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members
of athletic teams, dates of attendance in a district school, degrees and awards received,
and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended. Parents and eligible
students may refuse to have any or all of these types of information released without
written consent. Such refusal may be indicated by written statement sent by October 1 of
the school year to: District Records Custodian, 1500 East 128th Avenue, Thornton, CO
80241. Such statement should include student’s name, student’s I.D. number, birth date,
addresses, school he/she attends, and grade level
Media or Internet Publishing - There may be times during the school year when
different media groups (newspapers, television, university, school production class,
district public relations, etc.) will cover activities at the various Adams 12 Five Star
Schools with articles, video or still photography that may be published. In addition,
schools or the district may want to include school-oriented articles, video or photography
on their own Web sites. If parents DO NOT want their child(ren) to be photographed or
videotaped for news media or school publicity purposes, they should request and submit
an “opt-out media form” from the school.
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District photographers will make every reasonable effort to identify the primary subjects
in photographs and to not publish photos containing students on the opt-out list. The
requests remain in effect for the current school year. This policy only relates to classroom
activities or school events that are not open to the public. Events and activities which are
open to the public are not covered by this “opt-out” option.
Attaining Records - Individual school offices may be closed much of the summer. Parents
or eligible students needing copies of records should request that information prior to the
end of the school year when possible.
Teacher Qualification Information
Federal law allows parents to request information regarding the professional
qualifications of their student’s classroom teacher, including whether the teacher is
teaching under emergency licensing, the area of study in which the teacher majored in
college and degrees and endorsements that the teacher has achieved. Parents may also
request information regarding the qualifications of any paraprofessional staff member
providing service to their child. Parents who would like to request this information
should contact the administration of their child’s school.
Translation Services
Schools are responsible for arranging translation services for discipline actions, teacher
conferences, back to school or open house events, non-emergency medical information,
student attendance, or academic performance concerns. Please contact the school
administration office if you have any questions regarding translation services.
Video and Audio Monitoring
Superintendent’s Policy 3520, Video and Audio Monitoring, allows video surveillance to
be utilized in schools, on school property, and on transportation provided by the district.
Many cameras are equipped with audio recording capabilities as well. Such monitoring
may assist in deterring misbehavior and may provide evidence to be presented in student
discipline hearings, court proceedings, and similar venues. Recordings may be used in
student discipline investigations and as evidence in school discipline matters including
suspension or expulsion cases. Recordings may also be used to prosecute crimes against
property, students or staff. Recordings will be made available as appropriate to school
administration and law enforcement, or as otherwise may be required for disclosure by
subpoena.
Students will not be notified when a recording device has been installed or is being
utilized in a specific vehicle or building. Students should proceed with the assumption
that their conduct and comments in public places (e.g., school hallways, buses, athletic
facilities, etc.) may be recorded by video and audio devices.
Parents or guardians who wish to view a videotape or listen to a recording may submit a
written request to the Director of Security Services for tapes concerning district facilities
and property. Written requests may be made to the Director of Transportation concerning
district buses and vehicles. Superintendent’s Policy 3520 identifies circumstances under
which requests may be granted or denied.
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Visitors to Schools
Parents and visitors are welcome in district schools or facilities. For the safety of
students, staff and visitors, Superintendent’s Policy 1200, Visitors to Schools, provides
guidelines regarding school visits. Visitors should report to the school office or building
reception area and follow all check-in procedures upon arrival. Building visit procedures
typically include presenting identification, signing a visitor log, wearing a visitor
identification card, and / or being accompanied by a staff member. In some schools
scanning software exists to verify that there are no individual criminal concerns that
might jeopardize school safety. Classroom visits by parents or guardians should be
requested and approved by the principal prior to the visit to avoid disruption of the
learning environment.
Visitors who fail to abide by district and school guidelines for visitors may be requested
to leave school property and may be subject to future restrictions regarding school visits
as explained in Superintendent’s Policy 1210, Public Conduct on School Property. Law
enforcement or district security staff may also be contacted.
Weapons
Consistent with the district’s obligation to provide a safe and secure environment,
Superintendent’s Policy 5100, Student Weapons in School, prohibits students being in
possession of any dangerous weapon or dangerous item at school, during school
activities, or on any district property.
Knives or other instruments with sharpened blades or edges that might easily be used as a
weapon are not permitted at school, regardless of the length of the blade. Exceptions
include scissors and other sharpened instruments commonly used during supervised
educational activities.
In addition, Superintendent’s Policy 8700, Weapons, specifically makes it a
violation for any pupil, staff member, volunteer, or visitor to possess a firearm,
explosive device, knife with a blade longer than three (3) inches, or other
dangerous weapon when in a district facility; on district grounds; at any or
district activity, regardless of location; or on any district vehicle. This restriction
does not apply to School Resource Officers or other law enforcement officers
who are legally required to carry a weapon to perform their job. Any other
request for an exception from this restriction should be communicated in writing
to the Superintendent
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