Westside High School
Student Handbook
2015-2016
“It’s a Matter of Pride”
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806 Pearman Dairy Rd, Anderson, SC 29625
(864) 260-5230
Dear Parents:
It is with pleasure that I welcome you to an exciting year at Westside High School, an Early
College Academy! We take great pride in our commitment to excellence, passion for children,
and the value we place on establishing meaningful relationships with others.
The intent of this handbook is to provide you with easy answers about Westside High School,
an Early College Academy, and establish some common procedures for all of us to follow.
Although we have tried to include as much information as possible, please call the school
office if you have additional questions.
We hope you will read this handbook thoroughly and keep it available for reference
throughout the school year. Each new school year offers new challenges and opportunities for
all students. The staff at Westside is committed to providing a safe, challenging, and nurturing
learning environment for your child. Home and school working together as a team can make
this school year a very successful one for your student. I look forward to working with each
you of this school year!
Sincerely,
Mr. Kory Roberts, Ed. S
Principal
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Anderson School District 5 Board of Education
Mr. Thomas A. Wilson – Superintendent
Chairman, Mr. Rick Bradshaw
Mrs. Ann Huitt
Mrs. Margaret Mack
Mr. Jay Blankenship
Mr. Tommy Price
Mr. Harold Kay
.Mr. John Griffith
Mr. Paul Zugg
Dr. Sandy Addis
400 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, South Carolina 29625
(Phone) 864-260-5000
(Fax) 864-260-5074
DISTRICT OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Mrs. Amy Heard, Director of Financial Services
Mr. Mike Mahaffey, Assistant Superintendent for Personnel
Mr. Tripp Dukes, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Principal.....……………………………………………………………………………………...Mr. Kory Roberts
Associate Principal (Repeat 9th / 10th Grade)……………………………..……Mr. Roderic Taylor
Associate Principal (11th / 12th Grade)………….………………………………..Mrs. Kathy Dobbins
Assistant Principal/Athletic Director ……………….………………….……......Mr. Rayvan Teague
Assistant Principal (9th Grade Academy Director)…………….……………..Mr. Adam Comstock
Assistant Principal (Instruction)……………………...........................................Mr. Curtis Smith
Academic Coach……………………………………………………………………...Ms. Sharon King-Hanley
Guidance Counselor (Director)…….....................................................................Ms.Kena Steeple
Guidance Counselor…………………………………………………......................Ms. MaryEllen Minniear
Guidance Counselor……………………………………………………………...........................Ms. Toni Evans
Guidance Counselor……………………………………………………………………………….Ms. Jill McClain
Guidance Counselor (Asst. Director)…………………………………………………..Mr. Joey Branyon
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First Name
Last Name
Title
Nick
Agnello
PE
Kathryn
Andrade
Special Education
Janet
Applewhite
Secretary
Rhonda
Arnold
New Foundations
Jeannine
Bailey
Nurse
Michelle
Beatty
Science
Philip
Beben
Math
Linda
Bell
Math
Kathy
Berry-Burns
English
Nicole
Bloedow
Math
Kati
Boring
Social Studies
Ken
Bradshaw
Social Studies
Joey
Branyon
Guidance/Asst Director
Polly
Brown
English
Cara
Brown
Fine Arts/Music
Rodney
Burdette
Social Studies
Walletta
Burriss
Media Clerk
Rachel
Burton
Math
Cathy
Busby
English
Lynne
Butler
Lunch staff
Misty
Evans
Fine Arts/Art
Stacy
Carlton
Jag Coordinator
Brenda
Carter
English (Career Campus)
Christine
Cook
Social Studies
Melissa
Cooke
Math
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First Name
Last Name
Title
Aaron
Cottingham
PE
John
Cotton
Custodian
Brett
Davis
Technology
James
Dawson
PE
Harriet
Dennis
Special Educ Assistant
Sherry
Dooley
Lunch staff
Renee
Drake
Media Specialist
Scott
Earley
Assistant AD/Head Football Coach
Kim
Ellison
Custodian
Toni
Evans
Guidance
Carrie
Evans
Special Education
Joy
Fisher
English/Read 180
Mary
Foggie
Receptionist
Carnita
Foster
Math
John
Frady
Science
Kevin
Garrett
Custodian
Leslie
Gibson
Lunch staff
Farrah
Gilbert
English
Belinda
Gillespie
Lunch staff
Darnell
Gilliard
Student Aid
Matthew
Haley
PE
Michael
Hammett
Social Studies (Career Campus)
Jon
Hannah
ISS Supervisor
Bill
Hill
ROTC
Lauren
Hocker
Athletic Secretary
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First Name
Last Name
Title
Taylor
Holbrook
Social Studies
Adam
Holland
Social Studies/AVID
Mark
Holliday
Social Studies
Liesl
House
Special Education Assistant
Amber
Huckabaa
Math
Salisha
Humphrey
PE
Brett
Hungerford
Science
Cindy
Hunter
Lunch staff
Jane
Isbell
Foreign Language/French
Andrea
Isengard
Science
Tracy
James
Math
Doug
Jerolamon
Special Education
Destinee
Johnson
Science
Linda
Johnson
Special Education
Xiomara
Jones
Foreign Language/Spanish
Sharon
King-Hanley
Administrative Assistant
Kristie
Lee
English
Daniel
Linder
College & Career Readiness / Social Studies
Fred
Marshall
New Foundations Assistant
Candice
Martin
Foreign Language/German
Mattie
Martin
Custodian
George
Mathis
Technology
Kristy
Mays
Data Clerk
Bailey
McCarley
Math
Jill
McClain
Guidance Counselor
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First Name
Last Name
Title
Mikey
McCoy
Strength Assistant
Meredith
McGee
Social Studies
Willie
McGregory
Custodian
Miranda
McIntosh
English/AVID
Beth
Metz
Custodian
Mary Ellen
Minniear
Guidance
Jenilyn
Mulkey
Science
Heather
Neary
English
Angie
New
AVID
Barry
New
PE
Barbie
Norris
Lunch staff
Walter
Parks
Security
George
Patterson
Social Studies
Charles
Paul
Security
Herb
Phillips
Social Studies
Jacki
Pickens
Custodian
Renee
Poore
Special Education
Christopher
Popa
ESOL
Brittany
Queen
Math
Matt
Quinn
Social Studies
Daniel
Rancourt
ROTC
Linda
Rich-Mason
Psychologist (Dr.)
Kelley
Rider
English
Misael
Rodriguez
Foreign Language/Spanish
Chrissy
Saunders
Fine Arts/Art (WHS and LMS)
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First Name
Last Name
Title
LaurieA
Scarborough
Bookkeeper
Bobby
Scott
Custodian
Ricky
Scott
School Resource Officer
Mary
Seel
Guidance Clerk
Jane
Sharpe
Foreign Language / Spanish
DeeDee
Shead
English
Amy
Simmons
English
Sheron
Simmons
Lunch staff
Missy
Simpson
Lunch staff
Layla
Smith
Lunch staff
Sean
Snowden
Science
Alyssa
Sotomayor
Athletic Trainer
Kena
Steeple
Guidance/Director
Melissa
Stowe
Special Ed Nurse
Michael
Straup
Social Studies
Candace
Strickland
Computer Facilitator
Patrick
Strothmann
Science
Will
Sullivan
English
Ron
Sullivan
Fine Arts/Art
Brittany
Taylor
Math
Garrett
Thomason
Special Education
James
Thurn
Journalism
Janet
Tindall
Special Education
Rhonda
Usry
Social Studies
Shane
Vickery
Fine Arts/Band
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First Name
Last Name
Title
Karen
Washington
Special Education
Jeremy
West
College & Career Readiness
Mary
West
Special Education
Susan
Welborn
Special Education
Sandra
Williams
Custodian
Fatimah
Williams
Special Education Assistant
Amy
Wilson
Special Education
Tara
Wilson
Special Education
Jerri
Winchester
Math
Lawrence
Woodson
Custodian/Head
Bess
Wurst
Journalism
Ellen
Zielinski
Science
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Contents
DISTRICT OFFICE ADMINISTRATION ...............................................................................................................................................3
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION ................................................................................................................................................................3
SLOGAN ................................................................................................................................................................................................13
ALMA MATER ......................................................................................................................................................................................13
SCHOOL MASCOT ................................................................................................................................................................................13
SCHOOL COLORS .................................................................................................................................................................................13
Westside High School ........................................................................................................................................................................15
Bell Schedule.......................................................................................................................................................................................15
PRESENCE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS ...................................................................................................................................................16
SOLICITATIONS AND ADVERTISING ...............................................................................................................................................16
CAMPUS SAFETY .................................................................................................................................................................................16
USE OF METAL DETECTORS .............................................................................................................................................................16
ATTENDANCE ZONES .........................................................................................................................................................................17
STUDENT ENROLLMENT ...................................................................................................................................................................17
ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS ...........................................................................................................................................................17
MAKE-UP WORK .................................................................................................................................................................................20
IDENTIFICATION BADGES ................................................................................................................................................................20
LOCKERS ..............................................................................................................................................................................................21
SEARCHES ............................................................................................................................................................................................21
CELL PHONES ......................................................................................................................................................................................21
Ear Buds / Head phones ...................................................................................................................................................................22
Gambling/Playing Cards / Dice .......................................................................................................................................................22
HALL PASSES .......................................................................................................................................................................................22
DRESS CODE POLICY ..........................................................................................................................................................................22
Prohibited Items: ...............................................................................................................................................................................23
General Dress Code Statements ......................................................................................................................................................23
Search and Seizure.............................................................................................................................................................................25
Gang and Gang-Related Activities ...................................................................................................................................................25
Participation in Extracurricular/Co-curricular Activities .........................................................................................................26
The South Carolina School Safety Act of 1997 ..............................................................................................................................26
MACE/PEPPER SPRAY .......................................................................................................................................................................27
ALIVE AT 25 .........................................................................................................................................................................................28
CAFETERIA ..........................................................................................................................................................................................34
COMPUTER RULES .............................................................................................................................................................................34
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER ..................................................................................................................................................................35
IMMUNIZATIONS ................................................................................................................................................................................36
RULES FOR ADMINISTERING MEDICATION AT SCHOOL .............................................................................................................36
STUDENT INSURANCE .......................................................................................................................................................................37
THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND .....................................................................................................................................37
ACCREDITATION AND DISCRIMINATION .......................................................................................................................................37
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Anderson School District 5
Nondiscrimination Notice
Anderson School District 5 does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin,
sex, age, disability, or religion.
Title IX provides that no person shall, on the basis of sex be excluded from participating in, be
denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any academic, extracurricular,
research, occupational training, or other education program or activity operated by the school
district. The Title IX Coordinator for Anderson School District 5 is Mike Mahaffey (864-2605000 ext 10128).
Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 provide that
no otherwise qualified disabled individual shall, solely by reason of such disability, be
excluded from the participation in, be denied that benefits of, or be subjected to
discrimination in programs or activities sponsored by the school district. The ADA and 504
coordinator for Anderson School District 5 is Dr. Lynn Dowis (864-260-5000 ext 10107).
PRIVACY RIGHTS OF PARENTS AND STUDENTS
Federal law regulates access to and release of student records. The school must provide
parents of students access (within a reasonable length of time) to official records directly
related to students and an opportunity to challenge the accuracy or appropriateness of such
records. Except in certain circumstances, the release of student records requires signature of
a parent or legal guardian. For further information, contact the Guidance Office.
Federal law requires school systems to release student names, addresses, and telephone
numbers to military recruiters and recruiters from institutions of higher education unless
parents specifically object. If you do not want this information released, you must notify the
school in writing.
If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher’s qualifications, please
contact the principal at 864-260-5230.
Video and Photography Policy
There are numerous activities at Westside High School that provide opportunities for students
to be photographed and/or videotaped. Student publications including the yearbook use
photographs and pictures to document student life and various events. Our mass media
classes produce news programs that are broadcast over the local channel. Small groups of
students in the mass media classes interview students on video for specific class projects.
Teachers and administrators maintain web pages on the Internet that may use pictures of
students involved in extracurricular activities, classes, athletic events, band shows,
performing arts, awards and honors, etc.
If you do not want your student to be (videotaped), or your student’s picture used in any of
the above instances, please notify the school.
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MISSION
“Learning today, leading tomorrow!”
By assuring quality improvement in every facet of school life and incorporating the resources
and diversities of our communities, Westside High School’s mission is to educate all students
and produce graduates with the knowledge and skills to be lifelong learners, individuals with
ethical character, and citizens who contribute to an ever- changing global society.
VISION
"A FAMILY WHERE IT’S A MATTER OF PRIDE!"
A nurturing, caring family, instilled with a joy of learning and life, appreciating cultural
diversity and united in support of democracy.
A family in which everyone shares responsibility and is respected as an individual with his or
her own visions, goals, beliefs, and ideas.
A family which believes all people can learn and experience success.
BELIEFS
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We believe in the institution of public education, where the student is our central focus, and
where we should educate the total student.
We believe each student is entitled to quality public education.
We believe every student has the responsibility to earnestly participate in the educational
process.
We believe learning is the business of public schools and that knowledge and skills are our
product.
We believe that family involvement and broad based community support is critical in the
development of the student.
We believe students have different educational needs and that each individual has worth and
potential for growth and development.
We believe effective education helps students apply knowledge.
We believe ethical values and positive self-image contribute to the success of the individual
and society.
We believe the understanding of diversity, including ethnic differences, can promote
harmony and mutual respect in our society.
We believe with every right comes responsibility.
We believe shared decision-making improves the educational process.
We believe every student is entitled to a safe, secure, and positive learning environment.
We believe the quality of life in our community is improved by increasing the educational
levels of our population.
We believe each individual will be treated with dignity and respect.
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SLOGAN
SCHOOL MASCOT
ALMA MATER
SCHOOL COLORS
Maroon / Grey / White
Rams
“It’s A Matter of Pride”
Rising ‘neath the golden sunshine
And the blue, blue sky,
Proudly stands our Alma Mater,
Dear old Westside High.
You’re our idol, inspiration.
Memories never die;
For we’ll love and cherish ever,
Hold your standards high.
So with hearts of happiness,
Voices deep with pride;
We proudly hail and loudly praise,
Our own dear Westside High.
Chorus:
Oh, we love you, yes we love you;
Courage ever high,
We pledge to thee our loyalty,
Dear old Westside High
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Westside High School
Bell Schedule
2015-2016
Lunch 1
Lunch 2
8:20
9:50
1st Block
8:20
9:50
1st Block
9:50
10:10
Advisory/Travel
9:50
10:10
Advisory/Travel
10:15
11:45
2nd Block
10:15
11:45
2nd Block
11:4511:55
Students with PM AVCC classes get
grab and go lunch
11:50
12:45
3rd Block Part 1
11:50
* All non AVCC Students are in their
3rd Block Class
12:45
1:15
Second Lunch
12:00
12:30
First Lunch
1:15
2:00
3rd Block Part 2
12:30
2:00
3rd Block
2:05
3:40
4th Block
2:05
3:40
4th Block
Lunch 3
8:20
9:50
AVCC
1st Block
9:50
10:10
Advisory/Travel
10:15
11:45
2nd Block
11:50
1:30
3rd Block
1:30
2:00
Third Lunch
2:05
3:40
4th Block
1st
8:25 - 9:55
2nd
10:00 -11:30
Travel
3rd 12:25 – 1:55
4th 2:00 – 3:30
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SWAA
Schedule
8:25 – 9:45
1st Block
9:50 – 10:10
Travel
10:10 – 11:30
2nd Block
Travel
Travel
12:20 – 1:40
3rd Block
Travel
Travel
2:05 – 3:25
4th Block
WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL INTERVENTION PROTOCOL
Teachers at Westside High School pledge to do whatever it takes for a student to learn. When
he or she does not, they will take the following progressive steps to ensure academic success:
1. Conference with the student.
2. Contact the parent or guardian.
3. Schedule morning or afternoon tutoring with the student in their classroom.
4. Refer the student to the graduation coach / counselor for assistance.
5. Conference with student, parent, counselor, and other teachers of the student.
6. Refer the student to the counselor for enrollment in the Credit Recovery
program.
7. Refer the student to administration for inclusion in special programs
(mentoring, review courses and blitzes, peer tutoring, support classes, etc.)
8. Refer the student to administration to develop academic, attendance, behavior
contracts.
9. Proceed to find additional interventions.
PRESENCE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS
It is unlawful for any non-student (one not enrolled at this school) to be present without
approval of the principal. Students suspended or expelled are not to be on school premises
without prior approval of the principal. Such violations are considered trespassing.
SOLICITATIONS AND ADVERTISING
Solicitations and advertising are not allowed on the campus without express permission from
the principal, except those of school-sponsored functions.
CAMPUS SAFETY
Individuals entering school buildings and facilities may be asked to submit to metal detector
search procedures to ensure that weapons and other dangerous objects are not brought into
buildings and facilities. This is in accordance with Anderson School District Five Policy, JCAC.
In addition, for the safety of others at all athletic events, students may not run onto any
athletic field after a South Carolina High School League contest (at home or away). Students
also may not have any fireworks or other type of smoke devices on school grounds and/or at
athletic events at home or away.
USE OF METAL DETECTORS
When the administration has reasonable cause to believe that weapons are in the possession
of identified or unidentified students, when there has been a pattern of weapons found at
school, or when violence involving weapons has occurred at the school, the administration is
authorized to use handheld, stationary and/or mobile metal detectors in accordance with
procedures developed by the administration in conjunction with legal counsel. Any search of a
student or individual's person as a result of the activation of the detector will be conducted in
private in accordance with the procedures.
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The District's express intention for this policy is to enhance security by preventing students
and/or individuals from bringing weapons or other dangerous objects into the schools. Any
student who violates the provision of the Student Code of Conduct, which provides that a
student may not possess, use, or transfer dangerous weapons, will be disciplined in
accordance with district policy.
ATTENDANCE ZONES
Students must attend the school located in the zone where their parents/guardians reside.
Students who change residence during the school year must immediately notify the Guidance
Office. Enrollment for new or returning students is temporary until all records are
received.
When a special education student transfers from this school to a school outside of Anderson
School District Five, the Director of Special Education/designee will send a copy of the
student’s special education information to the receiving school. This procedure will facilitate
the exchange of records between school districts and prevent delays in the provision of free
and appropriate public education.
Any student moving out of the district during the year must withdraw and attend school in
his/her new place of residence. Each year some students from other school districts apply to
Anderson School District Five for out-of-district permission to attend Westside High School.
The amount of out-of-district tuition is set each year by the Anderson District Five Board of
Trustees.
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Students are enrolled in Anderson School District Five on a probationary basis. When records
are received, the school administration may take action to withdraw a student who has been
expelled, disciplined for conduct which could cause him/her to be expelled or adjudicated as
delinquent for a violent crime in any jurisdiction, the unlawful use or possession of weapons,
or the unlawful sale or use of drugs. Serious offenses committed outside of school can result
in student expulsion from school. Expungement of expulsions from school records is possible
if students maintain exemplary discipline after returning to WESTSIDE HIGH from expulsion.
Students/parents should contact an administrator for expungement details.
ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS
State law requires that all children between the ages of five and seventeen be enrolled in
school. Regular attendance is necessary for academic progress to be made. The allowed
number of absences includes both excused and unexcused absences. A student receiving high
school credit must be present in each class as follows:


Student must attend 85 of each 90-day course
Student must attend 170 of each 180-day course
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Attendance is the presence of the student on days when school is in session. Attendance is
kept in each individual class. Students who are tardy, dismissed early, or absent from class for
any approved reason will he marked accordingly, even though they may be counted present
for homeroom/daily attendance purposes. Students will be counted present when they are
actually at school, on homebound instruction, or present at a school-related activity such as a
field trip.
Absences are classified as lawful and unlawful. The following are considered lawful
absences:
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
Illness;
death or serious illness in immediate family;
doctor’s appointment (with beginning and ending of time of the appointment verified
in writing by the doctor or dentist upon return of the student to school); and
 recognized religious holidays.
The following are considered unlawful absences:
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
willful absence from school without the knowledge of the parents/guardians, and
absence from school without acceptable cause with the knowledge of the
parents/guardians.
Students are required to bring written excuses from parents/guardians on the first day back
to school after an absence. If an excuse is not provided to the school within 10 days after an
absence, the absence becomes permanently unexcused. If a student attends fewer than 85
days in a semester course or fewer than 170 days in a yearly course, a statement from a
medical doctor must be provided to the principal. It is the responsibility of the parent to stay
in touch with school officials concerning absenteeism. This excuse should be taken to the front
office and should contain the following information:
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student’s name
date(s) of the absence(s) and date of the excuse
reason for the absence(s)
a parent or guardian’s signature
a telephone number where parent or guardian can be reached.
It will be the student’s responsibility to make up missed work within a reasonable length of
time as specified by the teacher. Failure to make up missed work can lower a student’s
average and may lead to loss of credit.
In each class where high school credit is awarded, a student must attend 85 of each 90-day
course and 170 of each 180-day course. Principals are authorized to grant credit to students
with additional absences provided the absences meet the criteria of lawful absences in this
policy.
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A tardy to class will be marked UTD (unexcused tardy) unless the student misses more than
one third of the class and then it will be marked as an absence. Any early dismissal from class
will be marked as EPU (Early Pick-Up) unless the student misses more than one third of the
class and then it will be marked as an absence.
Class absences, because of participation in a school-sponsored activity, shall not be counted
for purposes of receiving credit. However, students with accumulated class absences at or
above the limits for receiving credit shall not be excused from class to participate in schoolsponsored activities.
Consequences for Unexcused Tardies to School
1st Unexcused Tardy
1st - Warning
2nd Unexcused Tardy
2nd - Warning / Teacher-Parent contact.
3rd Unexcused Tardy
3rd – Administrator Referral
4th Unexcused Tardy
4th - 4 days Lunch / Breakfast Clean up and Loss of Driving Privileges
for 5 School Days.
5th Unexcused Tardy
5th – 5 Days Lunch / Breakfast Clean up and Loss of Driving Privileges
for 10 School Days.
6th Unexcused Tardy
6th - 1 period ISS and loss of Driving Privileges for 15 School Days.
7th Unexcused Tardy
7th - 1 Day ISS and loss of Driving Privileges for the remainder of the
semester.
8th Unexcused Tardy
8th - Administration Discretion
Medical Homebound Instruction
Students who cannot attend public school because of illness, accident or pregnancy, even with
transportation, are eligible for medical homebound or hospitalized instruction.
In order for a student to receive medical homebound instruction, the following conditions must
exist:
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

The student must be of legal school age.
A physician must certify that the student is unable to attend school but may profit from
instruction given in the home or school
The student must be approved by the superintendent or his/her designee on appropriate
forms provided by the State Department of Education
The student must successfully complete the materials assigned and receive a passing grade
from the student’s classroom teacher(s) or homebound teacher in case of extended medical
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homebound instruction. This requirement is necessary in order for the student to advance to
the next grade or to satisfy the state requirements for a state high school diploma.
MAKE-UP WORK
As in any public school, the responsibility for makeup work rests with the student and must
be scheduled at the convenience of the teacher. When an absence is caused by the student's
illness, by death in the family, or by unavoidable accident, the faculty will look favorably upon
helping the student to make up his/her work. Students must adhere to deadlines set by the
teacher.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
To arrange a parent/teacher conference, parents may call their child’s counselor (864-2605824). A mutually convenient time can usually be arranged for parents needing to meet
with any or all teachers of their children. Meetings involving several teachers usually must
be scheduled before or after school. All conferences must be prearranged.
DISMISSALS and SIGNING IN
Students are not to leave school grounds during school hours without permission from
parents and the front office. Students taking courses at Anderson Five Career Campus,
Southwood Academy of the Arts, or college campuses may leave during their designated travel
times. A student leaving school during the day must:
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bring a note from home with the time, date, and reason for leaving early, a parent
signature, and a phone number to be used for verification;
take dismissal note to the office to be approved by the administration;
the front office will call the classroom when it is time to leave school;
all students leaving school grounds must sign out in the front office and receive a
dismissal pass from the front office;
students coming back to school or coming in late must sign in at the front office.
Because lunch is provided on campus, students are prohibited from leaving during lunch time
for the purpose of eating lunch. Once a student arrives on school grounds, he/she is not
permitted to leave school grounds before the end of the school day without permission from
the office, unless he/she is traveling by bus to another campus for a class.
IDENTIFICATION BADGES
Students are required to wear identification badges on school grounds. One ID badge is given
to each student free of charge. Students may purchase additional badges for $5 and one day
temporary IDs for $1. Students will not be able to attend class unless they have proper IDs.
The ID should not be defaced and it should reflect the current school year on the front.
Students are not permitted to wear other students’ IDs. IDs are to be worn around the neck
with the lanyard provided by the school. Lost lanyards will be replaced at a student cost of $1.
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LOCKERS
Lockers are provided for the convenience of the students. Lockers are the property of the
school district, and students are allowed to use them temporarily for convenience. Lockers
are not private storage spaces. School lockers will be subject to unannounced searches by
school personnel for safety reasons. Lockers should be kept locked to prevent theft.
Combinations should be given to no one, and lockers should not be shared. Students should
not attempt to force lockers open or closed. Students should seek the help of an assistant
principal if assistance is needed. Neither food nor drinks should be stored in lockers. Student
lockers are free of charge. However, our ninth grade academy has removable locks. If a ninth
grade student loses the lock they were be charged $5.00 for the replacement.
SEARCHES
When principals or their designated representatives have reliable information that a student,
school locker, vehicle or any area contains prohibited items, illegal and/or dangerous items,
or controlled substances the principals have the right to search that student, locker, vehicle or
repository. Such searches may include any book bag, gym locker, car, purse, supply packets, or
anything that contains the student's personal effects. If a principal or their designated
representatives have reliable information that a personal electronic device contains
information regarding prohibited items, illegal and/or dangerous items, controlled
substances, or threats/planned fights, the device may be searched as well.
CELL PHONES
Cell phones and other electronic devices may be used in classes in the district’s Bring Your
Own Device Program (BYOD). Students may use these devices with the teacher’s
permission only in classrooms and the media center for educational purposes only.
Students are solely responsible for any personal cell phones/devices that they bring to school.
Administration at Westside High School will not search for lost or stolen cell phones/devices.
In the event that a student has a phone/device lost or stolen it will be the responsibility of the
student to file an incident report with the School Resource Officer.
2014-15 HIGH SCHOOL ENFORCEMENT
CELL PHONE
VIOLATION
1st
Offense
All other Offenses
CONSEQUENCE
Phone confiscated and student retrieves phone in the front
office at the end of the day.
Only the legal Parent/Legal Guardian retrieves the
confiscated cell phone. No other relatives or friends will be
allowed to retrieve the cell phone except the legal
Parent/Guardian.
21
Ear Buds / Head phones
Students who bring ear buds or headphones to school are responsible for them at all times.
As with cell phones or other devices, they may be used in class with teacher permission only.
Gambling/Playing Cards / Dice
Anderson School District 5 student code of conduct classifies gambling as a Level II offense
and clearly states that a student will not play games of skill or chance for money or property.
In some instances, violations may be a Level III infraction. Furthermore, students will not be
permitted to play dice on school grounds. Students who do so will have their dice confiscated
and will receive disciplinary action. Cards and Dice are permissible in class only if they are
being integrated by the teacher as part of his or her lesson plan.
HALL PASSES
A student is not permitted in the halls during class periods unless he/she is accompanied by a
teacher or has a written hall pass from an authorized staff member. The hall pass must have a
signature, date, time, and destination issued by the teacher concerned. All passes are to be
returned to the teacher with the return time designated. Students will be considered tardy,
absent, or out of area if they do not have a teacher’s permission to be out of class and will be
subject to disciplinary action.
DRESS CODE POLICY
Purpose: To promote generally accepted standards of decency, decorum, health, safety, and
cleanliness among the students in the schools of Anderson School District Five.
Anderson School District Five students are expected to observe the basic standards of
cleanliness and good grooming and dress in such a way not to distract or cause disruption in
the educational program or orderly operation of the school. Personal appearance of students
should promote health and safety, contribute to a climate conducive to teaching and learning,
and project a positive image of the district to the community.
This code is designed as a guide and is by no means all-inclusive. An item of dress, article of
clothing, or accessory should not be deemed “approved” simply because it is not listed herein.
In addition, the administration reserves the right to address inappropriate clothing on an
individual basis in all grades.
Items that can be worn:
1.
2.
3.
Pants, shorts, and skirts that are worn at the waist.
Dresses, skirts, shorts, or pants that show no visible skin above the knee. Clothing should
not touch the floor and should be worn at the proper waist level. Exceptions to length of
shorts may be made for physical education, Special Olympics, field days, etc.
Clothing that fits the wearer appropriately, covers all types of underclothing, and is
designed for wear outside the home.
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4.
5.
Pants that are worn with equal pant lengths.
Shirts, tee shirts, blouses, or dresses that have sleeves and do not show cleavage, backs
or midriffs during the course of normal movement.
6. Shoes or sandals
7. Accessories or clothing that does not pose a safety threat to self or others
8. Clothing that is not see-through.
9. Items that do not advertise alcoholic beverages, tobacco, narcotics, profane language,
weapons, and/or suggestive slogans, pictures, and/or offensive materials
10. Leggings, jeggings, yoga, or exercise pants may be worn with a blouse, sweater or top
that comes to at least mid-thigh.
Prohibited Items:
1. Hats and/or other head covering including hooded sweatshirts, bandanas, sweatbands,
stocking caps, do-rags, etc. worn inside buildings.
2. Items advertising alcoholic beverages, tobacco, narcotics, profane language, weapons,
and/or suggestive slogans pictures, and/or offensive materials.
3. Sunglasses worn inside buildings.
4. The wearing of any item(s) displaying any gang symbols.
5. Accessories or clothing that could pose a safety threat to self or others. These include
chains, fishhooks, multi-finger rings, studded bracelets or collars, nose/lip to ear chains,
etc. Also to include oversized clothing of any type or garments that may be determined
could conceal dangerous articles or items.
6. Sleeveless tops/shirts.
7. Clothing that is see-through.
8. Provocative and suggestive clothing.
General Dress Code Statements
1. Sagging pants will not be tolerated.
2. Pajamas and bedroom shoes may not be worn.
3. The school administration reserves the right to prohibit any item of clothing or
symbols that are inappropriate or disruptive to the daily operation of the school.
4. Clothing that is required to be worn because of religious reasons will be dealt with on
an individual basis.
5. Students in violation of the dress code will sign a dress code violation form.
a. 1st offense – If student can resolve the issue the student will receive a warning;
otherwise, they will be placed in ISS
b. All additional dress code violations will result in 1 day of ISS.
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WESTSIDE HIGH IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION PROGRAM (ISS) CLASS RULES
While I am a student in Westside High School ISSP, I agree to abide by the following rules of
the program:
1.
I will be present for a full school day to meet ISS requirements. This includes students
who are in youth apprenticeship or other release programs.
2. I will receive administrative approval for tardies, checkouts, and absences. I will make
up any time missed from ISS.
3. I will bring paper, pencils, pens, textbooks, and other materials necessary to complete
any assignments in a satisfactory manner. I will return materials assigned to me in ISS.
4. I will complete all assignments. I understand that I am responsible for assignments
given by my teachers and the supervisor of ISS.
5. I will turn in my assignments periodically during the day to the supervisor. I will write
my name and my teacher’s name at the top of each paper for proper identification.
6. I will not talk unless permission has been granted by the supervisor.
7. I will remain in my assigned seat at all times. I will keep my chair inside the carrel facing
the wall. I will sit in an upright position and keep all four legs of the chair on the floor.
8. I understand that students in ISS eat lunch separate from all other students. Students
will be allowed to bring their lunch from home; however, they must have it upon their
arrival to school.
9. I understand that if all assignments are complete by 2:10, I will be allowed to read
material of my choice such as periodicals, library books, etc.
10. I will remain seated in my chair until the final bell rings to be dismissed. I understand
that the supervisor will check my carrel for vandalism before I can leave.
11. I will obey all rules of ISS, and I understand violations of these rules may result in
assignment of additional days spent in the program or Out of School Suspension based
on the discretion of the principal or his assistant.
WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) RULES
Any student who receives OSS from Westside High School is required to attend a conference
within three days of the date of suspension with a parent / guardian and an administrator
prior to returning to school after serving their suspension. Furthermore, if the student enters
any school grounds, rides through a school ground, enters a building, or attempts to ride on a
school bus of this District during the period of suspension, except for a prearranged
conference with an administrator, he/she will be subject to further disciplinary action.
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Search and Seizure
School administration has the right to conduct a search that is reasonable in scope of a
student or his/her possessions if the administration has a reasonable suspicion that the
student may be in possession of a weapon, illegal substance or other items prohibited by or
used in violation of law or the Student Code of Conduct. In accordance with SC Act 373 of
1994, any person entering the premises of any school shall be deemed to have consented to a
reasonable search of his/her person and effects.
a) Search of an Individual and/or his/her Possessions: A student must cooperate
with and may not obstruct or interfere with a reasonable and authorized search of the
student and/or his/her possessions based on reasonable suspicion that the student
may be in possession of a weapon, illegal substance or other items prohibited by or
used in violation of law or the Student Code of Conduct.
b) Search of Student Lockers and Desks: Lockers and desks are the property of the
school and are assigned to the student with the understanding that he/she is
responsible for all property placed in the locker or the desk. Lockers and desks shall
be used only for storage of those items that are reasonably necessary for the student's
school activities such as books, gym clothes, coats, school assignments, etc. A student
must cooperate with and may not obstruct or interfere with an authorized search of
his/her locker or desk.
c) Search of a Vehicle: A student must cooperate with and may not obstruct or interfere
with reasonable search of the student's vehicle and its contents when it is present on
school property or at a school activity. These searches will be based on reasonable
suspicion that the student may be in possession of a weapon, illegal substance or other
items prohibited by or used in violation of law or the Student Code of Conduct. A
violation of this rule may result in the student losing his/her driving privilege, in
addition to other applicable discipline.
Gang and Gang-Related Activities
No student shall commit any act that furthers gangs or gang-related activities. A gang is any
ongoing organization, association or group of three or more persons, whether formal or
informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of criminal acts, or the
purposeful violation of any district policy, and having a common name or common identifying
sign, colors or symbols. Conduct prohibited by this policy includes:
a) Clothing: Wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying, or selling any clothing,
jewelry, emblems, badges, symbols, signs, visible tattoos and body markings, or other
items, or being in possession of literature that shows affiliation with a gang, or is
evidence of membership or affiliation in any gang or that promotes gang affiliation;
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b) Communication: Communicating either verbally or non-verbally (gestures,
handshakes, slogans, drawings, etc.), to convey membership affiliation in any gang or
that promotes gang affiliation;
c) Vandalism or Destruction of Property: Tagging, or otherwise defacing school or
personal property with gang or gang-related symbols or slogans;
d) Intimidation/Threats: Requiring payment for protection, money or insurance, or
otherwise intimidating or threatening any person related to gang activity;
e) Coercion: Inciting other students to intimidate or to act with physical violence upon
any other person related to gang activity;
f) Solicitation: Soliciting others for gang membership;
g) Conspiracy: Conspiring to commit any violation of this policy or committing or
conspiring to commit any other illegal act or other violation of school district policies
that relates to gang activity.
Unless otherwise specified, Gang and Gang-Related Activities are considered Level II and III
infractions.
Participation in Extracurricular/Co-curricular Activities
In order to participate in extracurricular/co-curricular activities or athletic programs,
students must adhere to Board of Education policies, school-level criteria, South Carolina High
School League rules (where applicable) and law. The district's behavioral expectations extend
beyond the classroom and school campus. Therefore, regardless of when and where the
charge arises, any student who commits a felony or is charged with or adjudicated/found
guilty of a felony may be excluded from participation in extracurricular/co-curricular
activities.
The South Carolina School Safety Act of 1997
This act creates a new criminal offense called, “Assault and battery against school personnel,”
which is an assault and battery that occurs on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event
against any person affiliated with the school in an official capacity; it is a misdemeanor. It
amends current law to permit detention of a child in a juvenile detention facility if charged
with assault and battery against school personnel as described above. It allows magistrates
authority to exceed stated penalties for assault and battery (when offense committed against
school personnel) from $500/30 days to $1000/1 year. It requires notification and inclusion
in the permanent record. If a student is convicted of assault and battery against school
personnel or a violent crime, the following is required:

If a student is sentenced to either the Departments of Juvenile Justice, Corrections, or
Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, the agency will immediately notify the school
where the student was enrolled or plans to enroll.

If a student is not sentenced to an agency previously mentioned, the judge will order
the clerk of court to notify the school within ten (10) days of conviction.
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
The school administrator must notify each of the student's teachers of the conviction
every year the student is in school.

The conviction must be noted in the student's permanent record and must be
forwarded to the new school if the student transfers.

The law provides school officials immunity from civil and criminal prosecution when
making a school crime report in good faith.
The district will make an exception to the pager policy under the following
circumstances:

A student under age 18 may possess a paging device if the student needs the paging
device for a legitimate medical reason.

A student age 18 or over may possess a paging device if:

the student is an active member of a volunteer firefighting organization;

the student is an active member of a volunteer emergency service organization; and/or

the student needs the paging device for a legitimate medical reason.
Before a student may have a paging device at school, the principal must have written evidence
on file of the student's medical need or membership in a voluntary fire-fighting or emergency
service organization.
The principal of each school will decide what constitutes a legitimate medical reason
consistent with any guidelines established by the Board and/or by the State Department of
Education. A student who has a paging device without permission as outlined in this policy is
subject to discipline as approved by board policy.
A person who finds a student in possession of a paging device without permission must
report the student to the school principal. The principal or officer must confiscate the device.
The device will be forfeited to the school district.
MACE/PEPPER SPRAY
The possession and/or use of mace, pepper gas and any other substance which is generally
used for personal defense and which may cause skin and/or eye irritation is prohibited.
The possession of such a substance will be considered a violation of the Student Code of
Conduct-Level II-Disruptive Conduct. The use of mace or any other similar substance, as
defined above, may be considered as an assault prohibited under the Student Code of
Conduct-Level III-Criminal Conduct, depending upon the facts of the incident.
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Transportation
Bus riders must report directly to the bus holding area in the cafeteria or the commons
determined by the bus that they ride, and drivers must report to the student parking lot.
Students who stay after school for detention or to participate in an extracurricular activity
must report directly to their designated area. Each group may not report to any other area. All
students must be out the building by 3:50 unless they are supervised by a staff member, and
must leave campus by 4:20 pm. Drivers must leave campus immediately. Students are not
permitted to return to campus once they have left for the day unless they participate in an
after school activity. Students who are not participating in an extracurricular activity may not
stay after school to watch an activity (not even brothers or sisters). Students who do not ride
a bus are responsible for arranging their own transportation home. Students who leave early
for work purposes may not return unless required by the work supervisor or another teacher.
Students may only ride their home bus unless a note form a parent, including the parent’s
signature and contact information, permitting them to ride a different bus has been submitted
to the front office prior to 4th block. Emergency situations arising during 4th block will still
require parental permission but will be handled on a case by case basis.
ALIVE AT 25
The Alive at 25 web site states, “Alive at 25 is a survival course developed by the National
Safety Council and is designed to prevent the #1 killer of teens, automobile crashes. Alive at 25
is taught by off-duty deputy sheriffs and municipal police officers. The course is delivered in
one 4.5 hour program which focuses on the behaviors and decision-making paradigms that
young drivers and passengers display behind the wheel.”
Following completion of this course, students will receive a decal showing participation in the
course which must be displayed on the vehicle in order for students to park on campus. The
course will be offered during the summer and on weekends during the school year. There is a
charge of $35 for students to participate in the course and receive course materials.
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Westside High School
Parking Regulations 2015-2016 School Year

Cars will be ticketed and/or towed at owners’ expense for violation of parking
regulations. Parking is a privilege that may be revoked without a refund for parking
violations.
1. No cruising on Pearman Dairy Road between 3:50-4:30. No cruising the car-rider area
in the front of the school, or any other school parking lot at any time.
2. Once a student drives on campus, he/she is considered ‘at school’ and must check out
legally in the front office to leave campus again.
3. Students may not loiter (hang-out) in the parking lot before, during, or after school.
Students must exit their vehicles & report directly to the school building immediately
upon arrival to school.
4. Parking tickets with fines--- Unpaid parking tickets will result in loss of parking
privilege and/or will result in vehicle being towed at owner’s expense if parked on
campus.
5. Vehicles on the campus of Westside High School must have a 2015-2016 Westside High
School parking “hang tag.” –The hang tag must be hanging from the rear view mirror &
car must be in a marked parking space.
6. Any student vehicle parked anywhere on campus other than the student parking lot
will likely be towed and parking privileges will be revoked.
7. Radios and sound systems must be kept at a volume that cannot be heard outside of
the vehicle while the vehicle is within 300 feet of the Westside High School campus.
8. Students will not be allowed to go to the student parking lot during the school day to
get items left in the car without permission from an Administrator. Students caught
going to the parking lot during the school day, without administration approval, will
have their driving privileges revoked for a minimum of nine weeks.
9. Students must get a temporary permit from the guidance office immediately upon
arrival when driving a car onto the Westside campus without a permit (Front Office).
10. Anderson Five Career Campus/Southwood Academy of Arts students must ride the bus
from Westside to their respective campuses and return from their respective campuses
via the school bus to Westside. Students may not transport other students to the
Anderson Five Career Campus or Southwood Academy for any reason.
11. Parking permits cost $12.00 and are valid for the 2015-2016 school year only.
12. Parking “hang tags” may not be transferred to other students. Any student who allows
someone else to use their parking “hang tags” will lose their parking privilege for the
remainder of the school year. Parking “hang tags” cannot be shared! (One person- -per
$12 --per parking “hang tag” purchase.)
13. Students must operate their vehicles in a safe and proper manner at all times on ANY
Anderson 5 County School campus. Student drivers must obey school rules and the
Discipline Code.
14. Students must provide evidence that they have successfully completed the “Alive at 25”
driving course prior to receiving a parking decal.
29
Parking Consequences for Unexcused Tardies to School
1st Unexcused Tardy to School – Warning
2nd Unexcused Tardy to School – Warning / Teacher – Parent Contact
3rd Unexcused Tardy to School – Administrative Referral
4th Unexcused Tardy to School – 4 Days Lunch / Breakfast Clean up and loss of Driving
Privileges for 5 School Days
5th Unexcused Tardy to School – 5 Days Lunch / Breakfast Clean up and loss of Driving
Privileges for 10 School Days
6th Unexcused Tardy to School - 1 Period ISS and loss of Driving Privileges for 15 School Days.
7th Unexcused Tardy to School - 1 Day ISS and loss of Driving Privileges remainder
of semester.
8th Unexcused Tardy to School - Administration Discretion
***Any student who parks on campus after a 7th unexcused tardy to school will have his/her
car towed at his/her expense without warning.***
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
1. First in-school and/or out-of-school suspension (full day) = parking privilege revoked
for 5 School Days.
2. Second ISS and/or OSS (full day) = parking privilege revoked for 10 School Days.
3. Third ISS and/or OSS (full day) = parking privileges revoked for 15 School Days.
4. Fourth ISS and/ or OSS (full day) = parking privileges revoked for remainder of school
year.
5. Substance abuse on campus = parking privilege revoked for remainder of school year
and in addition to Discipline Code Policy.
6. Weapon found on student or in vehicle = parking privilege revoked for at one year and
possible permanent revocation in addition to Discipline Code Policy.
7. On campus driving misconduct (scratching off, speeding wheelies, etc.) can result in
revocation of parking for remainder of school year.
8. Leaving campus without permission will result in parking privilege revoked.
9. Transporting another student off campus without authorization will result in
revocation of parking privilege for one year.
10. Failure to register a vehicle with the school or improperly parking a vehicle (such as
parking in an unassigned space) can result in not only revocation of parking privileges,
but also having your car towed away at your expense.
30
Note: Students receive this form at the time of purchase of their permits. A permit will not be issued until the
student returns this form signed by the student and parent/guardian.
Parking permits will be assigned on a priority basis by:
1. Program need 2. Seniors 3. Juniors 4. Sophomores 5. As space is available
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Affidavit:
The school is not responsible for the vehicles parked on campus. By parking on
school property, the person in charge of any vehicle consents to search of the entire
vehicle and its contents, with or without cause, by the school officials or police officers.
I have received, read, and understand the rules (both sides). If I purchase a new vehicle
or substitute my primary vehicle, I understand that it is my responsibility to notify an
administrator. I understand it is my responsibility to follow the rules and that if I
violate any of the rules, I may receive a work detail, ISS term, my automobile may be
towed away, and/or I may forfeit my privilege to park and drive on the campus.
*REQUIRED INFORMATION BEFORE A PERMIT WILL BE ISSUED.
Date_____________
Name of student (Print) _____________________________________________
*Signature of student _____________________________________________
Name of parent (Print) _________________________________ Phone Number _______________________
*Signature of Parent________________________________________________
Address
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Street
City
Zip code
*Auto Make (Ford, Chevy…) ___________________ *Auto Model (Tahoe, F150...)___________________
*Tag Number ____________________________________________ *Color__________________________
*Driver’s License Number____________________________________________
“Hang Tag” Number: ___________________________ (Completed by school personnel)
31
WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL RANDOM DRUG TESTING
A safe and effective learning environment is critical to the success of the students of Westside.
Drug use and abuse are harmful to the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of the
students. Drug abuse seriously interferes with the academic and athletic performance of the
students and creates an unhealthy learning environment.
The Random Drug testing Program will have a positive effect on Westside High School,
Anderson community and Westside High students by serving as a deterrent and offering
assistance to Westside High students who have drug issues. An important element of the
program is a student/parent counseling program for any student who may test positive and
desire intervention. The alcohol and drug testing education program is supported by the
Anderson 5 School District and is available for students and parents.
Westside High has implemented random drug testing of high school students. Any student
participating in the privilege activities will be subject to random drug testing on a monthly
basis during the school year. Privileged activities include all sports offered at Westside and
designated competitive organizations not required for graduation are eligible for random
drug testing.
Testing will be conducted at Westside High School. An independent lab conducts all tests in
the presence of a school administrator. Students will be selected through a computer
generated random numbering system provided by the independent lab.
A student shall submit a “consent to test” form in order to participate in athletics, band,
cheerleading and the fishing team. The consent to test form must be signed by the student and
his or her legal guardian. A student becomes eligible for testing upon submission of the
consent to test form. A student who refuses to submit a consent to test form is ineligible to
participate in that sport, activity, organization or class.
A student remains eligible for random drug and alcohol testing from the date the consent to
test form is submitted until the end of the school year. A student may be randomly selected for
drug and alcohol testing more than one time per year.
If a student eligible for random drug and alcohol testing withdraws from an athletic team, the
student may submit drop form to the testing coordinator. A submitted drop form signed by
the student, parent or legal guardian, coach/director, and principal effectively removes the
student from the random testing pool for that sport.
Testing will occur only on days when school is in session during the academic year.
All aspects of the random drug testing program, including the collection of specimens, will be
conducted so as to safeguard the student's privacy rights to the maximum extent possible.
Should a student refuse testing, the consequences will be the same as if the student tested
positive.
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Consequences for Violation of Drug Policy:
Penalty for First Positive or Non-Negative Drug Test Result:
*For all offenses – Information will be available for student/parent counseling.
• First offenders will be suspended for 25 percent of scheduled competition (regular season
and playoffs, not scrimmages) for athletics, cheerleading, and the fishing team, and three
weeks for band. Suspension will be for the current season and can be carried over to
additional sports if the student plays multiple sports as determined according to the
principal’s discretion. Suspensions can also be carried over to future seasons, if necessary. The
student must practice and attend all team functions during the suspension.
• First offenders must participate in counseling during the suspension time.
• First offenders must agree to be tested at all monthly drug screenings for one calendar year
at the expense of the student, parent or guardian.
• Failure to comply with any of the above consequences will result in suspension from athletic
and competitive activities as defined for one calendar year in this policy.
To regain eligibility, the student must participate in substance abuse services with a certified
clinical counselor. The length of the services will be determined by the counselor, and
completion of the program is required.
Penalty for Second Positive or Non-Negative Drug Test Result: A second offense will result in
suspension from all athletic and competitive activities for one calendar year from the date of
occurrence. Second offenders must agree to be tested before returning to activities, with the
exception of band.
To regain eligibility, the student must participate in substance abuse services with a certified
clinical counselor. The length of the services will be determined by the counselor, and
completion of the program is required.
Penalty for Third Positive or Non-Negative Drug Test Result: The third offense will result in
permanent suspension from all athletic and competitive activities, with the exception of band.
33
CAFETERIA
The cafeteria is operated primarily for students, so no one is permitted to leave campus for
lunch. Students who bring lunch must eat in the school cafeteria. The cafeteria offers several
food options. No food or drink is to be carried from the cafeteria.. Students will be issued I.D.
cards which are required in order to purchase a meal. Students should bring correct change
and pay cash for lunch. All trays and trash must be properly disposed of after students
eat lunch. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.
Lunch Fees
Any charges for meals exceeding $30.00 will be subject to being turned over to a
collection agency or possible wage or state tax refund garnishment.
COMPUTER RULES
Computer hardware and software are provided for student use. Because this equipment is
expensive, great care must be taken when using it. The following rules apply whenever
students use this equipment:
 Internet can be accessed on most computers in the labs, media center, and classrooms
for educational and research purposes. Students must have signed permission forms
in the media center prior to accessing the Internet on school computers the first time.
Students must use designated computers, sign in and out, and follow all rules posted.
 Absolutely no food, drinks, chewing gum, candy, etc. are allowed in a room with
computer equipment.
 Students should report any damage to equipment or software immediately to the
teacher in charge.
 No magnetic devices are permitted in the computer lab.
 Students will be issued a secure student server account, which will be referred to as
their student directories. A login name and password will be assigned to the student
for accessing this account. This student directory is to be used only for storing teacher
assigned projects and files. Students should not download programs or files that are
not assigned by the teacher to the student directory.
 Students are not allowed to share their login names and passwords. Students should
always log off the server before leaving the computer. Since student directories
contain student assignments and projects, they should not be shared with other
students. Copying work from another student’s directory, printing copies of work and
sharing it with other students, or any other situation in which a student has possession
of another student’s work is strictly prohibited and will be handled as cheating.
 Students should not send or upload their assigned work unless they have permission
from a teacher.
 Students are responsible for the loss, damage, or misuse of computer equipment.
Students are also responsible for the misuse of their login name if they do not logoff
the computer before leaving.
 When using a computer keyboard and mouse, students should not abuse them in any
way. Any damage to equipment, software, or misuse of printing privileges will be paid
for by the student.
 Accessing instant messaging sites, chat rooms, or personal email accounts is strictly
prohibited.
34
 Students will be assigned a specific menu in which they may work. They are not
permitted to deviate from this menu. They are not allowed to download or install other
programs on the school computers without the teacher’s permission.
 If a student accidentally goes to a website not directed by the teacher, then he/she
should immediately notify the teacher. Accessing a website that is not directed by the
teacher is a serious offense and will be handled as such.
 Transferring assigned work to another device without the teacher’s permission is
strictly prohibited and will be handled as cheating.
 Students are not permitted in the computer labs without a teacher. Several computer
stations are available for individual student use in the Media Center.
 Under South Carolina and federal statutes there are laws that pertain to the security of
computer systems. Anyone who tries to install and/or alter software and/or data will
be punished to the full extent of the law.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER
The mission of the Library Media Center is to support the curriculum needs of the students
and staff of Westside High School and to encourage lifelong learning. The library collection
includes print, non-print, and electronic resources.
All library materials are protected by an electronic security system. With current I.D. cards,
students may check out books for two weeks or vertical file materials for one week.
Magazines, newspapers, reference books, and audiovisual materials are for in-library use only.
A fine of $.05 per school day will be charged for overdue books. One overdue notice will be
sent to first period teachers prior to exams. Students will be billed for unpaid library fines
and overdue books at the end of the school year. All delinquent library records must be
cleared before students are allowed to graduate.
Students must have an “Internet Use Permission Form” on file in the library before using the
Internet. Library catalogs and many Internet-based electronic programs can be retrieved
from the school as well as home computers.
Students coming from classes need a pass signed legibly by the appropriate teacher. The pass
should indicate that the student will be using the Media Center for the following purpose(s):
research, book checkout, study, or Internet use. No food or drink is allowed in the library.
The library media specialists may refuse any student permission to remain in the library
media center if the student becomes a disruptive or refuses to work.
TEXTBOOKS AND OTHER SCHOOL PROPERTY
Textbooks are supplied by the Anderson 5 school district and are paid for by tax dollars. They
are issued to students as borrowed property; consequently, students will be held responsible
for damage and/or loss of books issued to them. During the term, loss or damage charges are
assessed by the school. Other school property such as uniforms and athletic equipment must
be turned in at the end of a season to the appropriate coach or sponsor. Charges for damages
or loss will be assessed in the same manner as for textbooks.
Students who owe fines will be restricted from PowerSchool access to check grades and
assignments until fines are paid. All financial obligations for the previous term must be
cleared before receiving a schedule for the next term. All fines must be paid in full before any
senior participates in graduation.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
1. Students must have a 2.5 GPA to run for office and to remain in office.
2. Students should have a disciplinary record with no ISS offenses during the previous
calendar year and no OSS offenses during the high school career.
3. Election to office automatically obligates a student to fulfill whatever duties come with
that office. Students who do not fulfill these duties may be impeached.
4. Students may not have more than three unexcused absences for student government
meetings.
5. Class officers must attend student government meetings.
6. Class advisors will jointly decide the status of a student government officer.
7. Students must conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a positive representative for
Westside High School.
MISS AND MR. WESTSIDE PAGEANT
1. Students must have a 2.5 GPA to be considered for Miss or Mr. Westside.
2. Students should have a disciplinary record with no ISS offenses during the previous
calendar year and no OSS offenses during the high school career.
3. Students must not be in danger of losing credit for classes because of attendance.
4. Students must conduct themselves in such a manner as to be a positive representative
for Westside High School.
IMMUNIZATIONS
All students are required by law to have a completed, up-to-date immunization form on file in
the health room.
RULES FOR ADMINISTERING MEDICATION AT SCHOOL
Pupils are not allowed to bring medicines to school except as directed below. The procedures
that must be followed are as follows: (1) Any medication to be given at school must be sent in
the pharmacy-labeled or drug-manufactured original container. (2) Prior to administering
medication, a dated request signed by the parent or guardian must be presented to the school
office or health room. It shall include the child's name, the name of the medication, and the
times of administration. Whenever possible, the expected duration of treatment shall be
stated. (3) Each time a new or different medication must be administered at school, it must be
accompanied by a request form as stated above. (4) It is the responsibility of the parent or
guardian to notify the school office in writing, signed by the parent or guardian, regarding any
changes in dosage or times of administration. (5) One medication form per year shall suffice
for medications which will be given on a long-term basis or those medications which must be
administered in case of exposure to allergens, for example, adrenaline for bee stings. (6) The
principal or his/her designees may refuse to administer any medication which, based on
his/her individual assessment, has the potential to be harmful, dangerous, or inappropriate.
(7) Parents will be responsible to reclaim any unused medication within one week of the
termination of treatment or within one week of the last day of school. After this time, any
unused prescription medications will be destroyed in the presence of two witnesses and
documented. (8) The school district or personnel will not be responsible for any adverse drug
reaction when the medication has been given in the manner prescribed.
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Medications (including over-the-counter drugs) shall only be dispensed by the school or by
any school personnel in accordance with regulations developed for this policy. Students who
bring medication to school to take during the school day must have written parental
permission to take the medicine. All medication brought to school will be kept in the nurse’s
office, unless specified otherwise by a physician for life-threatening conditions and
administered to the designated student as directed by parents or a physician.
STUDENT INSURANCE
A low-cost accident insurance program is offered to all students. Parents may choose from
school-time coverage and full-time coverage. Accident insurance shall be required for all
students participating in physical education, lab sciences, and Army ROTC, except in those
cases in which they have adequate coverage and their parents/guardians sign a waiver
indicating they do not wish to participate in the district accident insurance plan. Students
participating in interscholastic athletics shall be offered athletic accident insurance. If their
parents already have medical coverage, they must sign a waiver stating that fact with the
WESTSIDE HIGH Athletic Department.
THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND
PRIVACY ACT OFFICE
Parents and eligible students have the right to file written complaints concerning alleged
violations of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Written complaints should be sent
to the following address.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office
Department Of Education
330 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20201
This office has the responsibility of investigating, processing and reviewing alleged violations.
This office will refer appropriate cases to a review board for adjudication.
ACCREDITATION AND DISCRIMINATION
Anderson School District Five high schools are accredited by the Southern Association of
Colleges and Schools and are members of the Southern Regional Education Board’s “High
Schools That Work” Program. All district programs are operated without discrimination on
the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, or disability in compliance with Title VI, Title
VII, Title IX, Section 504, and all other applicable civil rights laws.
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Anderson School District Five Alternate Pathways
Students that have fallen behind academically can enroll in a hybrid model of education with
both Westside High School and Anderson Five Charter School. A student at Westside can
enroll in an on-line course through Anderson Five Charter School while attending Westside
High School full-time. Additionally, a student can enroll full-time at the Anderson Five Charter
School if they: (1) Have a minimum of 8 credits consisting of one English, one math, one
science, one social studies, and four electives; (2) Completes Charter School Application and
(3) Completes the Interview Process. Prior discipline issues will be considered before
accepting students.
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Grade Point Conversion Chart 2015-2016
The statewide Uniform Grading Scale below is effective for all students who receive Carnegie units.
The statewide Uniform Grading Scale is used in the Computation of the grade point average.
South Carolina Uniform Grading Scale Conversions
Numerical
Average
Letter
Grade
College Prep
Honors
AP/IB/
Dual Credit
100
A
4.875
5.375
5.875
99
A
4.750
5.250
5.750
98
A
4.625
5.125
5.625
97
A
4.500
5.00
5.500
96
A
4.375
4.875
5.375
95
A
4.250
4.750
5.250
94
A
4.125
4.625
5.125
93
A
4.000
4.500
5.000
92
B
3.875
4.375
4.875
91
B
3.750
4.250
4.750
90
B
3.625
4.125
4.625
89
B
3.500
4.000
4.500
88
B
3.375
3.875
4.375
87
B
3.250
3.750
4.250
86
B
3.125
3.625
4.125
85
B
3.000
3.500
4.000
84
C
2.875
3.375
3.875
83
C
2.750
3.250
3.750
82
C
2.625
3.125
3.625
81
C
2.500
3.000
3.500
80
C
2.375
2.875
3.375
79
C
2.250
2.750
3.250
78
C
2.125
2.625
3.125
77
C
2.000
2.500
3.000
76
D
1.875
2.375
2.875
75
D
1.750
2.250
2.750
74
D
1.625
2.125
2.625
73
D
1.500
2.000
2.500
72
D
1.375
1.875
2.375
71
D
1.250
1.750
2.250
70
D
1.125
1.625
2.125
69
F
1.000
1.500
2.000
68
F
0.875
1.375
1.875
67
F
0.750
1.250
1.750
66
F
0.625
1.125
1.625
65
F
0.500
1.000
1.500
64
F
0.375
0.875
1.375
63
F
0.250
0.750
1.250
62
F
0.125
0.625
1.125
0-61
F
0.000
0.000
0.000
61
FA
0.000
0.000
0.000
61
WF
0.000
0.000
0.000
-
WP
0.000
0.000
0.000
39