School Phone Numbers ......................................................................................................... page 2
School Personnel Contact Information ............................................................................... page 2
Academic Information .......................................................................................................... page 2
Promotion Standards
Student Grading
Grading Scale
College Test Requirements
Schedule Changes
Advanced Placement Course Requirements
Exam/End-of-Course Test Policy
Exam Exemptions
Student Records
Transcripts
Student Assistance Program
Clubs and Organizations
Student Government
For Notification of Grievances
General Information ...................................................................................................... page 4
Announcements
Agendas/Hall Passes
Lockers
Junior-Senior Prom Policies
Designated Campus Areas
Restroom Use
Elevator Use
Lost and Found
Field Trips
Medical Supplies, Sickness and
Emergencies
Textbooks
Visitors
Emergency Drills
Policies and Procedures ..................................................................................................... page 6
Attendance
Admission Slip Procedures
Food and Drink Policy
Cafeteria Guidelines
Early Dismissals Policy
Excessive Absence/Make-up
Waivers
Tardy Policy
Plagiarism/Cheating Policy
Dress Code
Student Parking To School Policy
Driving Eligibility Policy
Media Center Regulations Bus Transportation Policy
General Rules and Regulations .......................................................................................... page 10
Major Offenses
Serious Offenses
Sexual Harassment
Bullying
Wireless Communication Devices
Suspension from School
Involvement of the Criminal Justice System
Drugs and Alcohol Alternate Provisions
Due Process Procedures Tobacco Policy
Athletic Requirements ........................................................................................................ p age 14

NORTH IREDELL HIGH SCHOOL
156 Raider Rd
Olin, NC 28660
704-876-4191
704-876-3241 (fax)
NORTH IREDELL HIGH SCHOOL’S MISSION STATEMENT:
The Faculty and Staff of North Iredell High School recognize the importance of meeting the mental, physical, emotional and social needs of the whole student. Upon graduation, our students will be productive citizens who are able to adapt to a changing world.
2008-2009
ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPORT TEAM
North Iredell High School Principal
Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal / Instructional Facilitator
Penny Hedrick
Terry Jonas
Tom Robinson
Teresa Evans
David Ivey
Athletic Director
School Resource Officer
Keene Kruckenburg
Reggie Allen
GUIDANCE STAFF
704-876-1785
Counselor – 12 th Grade
Counselor – 11 th Grade & 9 th Grade M-Z
Counselor – 10 th Grade & 9 th Grade A-L
Student Assistance Program Coordinator
Gail Ellerbe
Robbin Spengler
Carolyn Lunsford
Kim Swofford
Athletic Department
704-876-3164
School Website http://www.iss.k12.nc.us/schools/nihs
North Iredell High School is committed to a safe and orderly environment. School policies are organized to provide a strong, well-rounded educational experience for our Raider students. During the school year it may be necessary to revise the policies and procedures outlined in this handbook. Students will be notified of any changes in policy before implementation.
GRADE/PROMOTION STANDARDS
The ISS System requires 28 units of credit for graduation (or 4 units less than the total number of courses available to take in four years). Students must earn the following units of credit in order to be promoted to the next grade level:
6 units ------- 10 th 12 units ------- 11 th 20 units -------- 12
Promotions occur only at the end of the school year. th
COURSE LOAD
Students must register for enough courses to provide 8 (4 per semester) units of credit. The principal must approve any deviations from this policy.
STUDENT GRADING
Grades will be issued to students on a 9 weeks basis. Exams will be given at the end of each term and will count as 25% of the final grade. In order to receive credit for any course that requires a North Carolina End-of-Course (EOC) test, the student must:


Meet I-SS/NIHS attendance policy standards, AND

Have a final grade of at least 70
Achieve proficiency (level 3) on the North Carolina EOC exam.
GRADING SCALE
93 – 100=A 85 - 92=B 77 - 84=C 70 - 76=D 0 - 69=F
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HIGH SCHOOL EXAM/END-OF-COURSE TEST POLICY
First semester exams Jan. 9 th – 16 th Second semester exams June 3 rd – 10 th


Final exams will be given in all subjects.

All exams will be taken at the scheduled times, except in hardship situations which have prior approval of the principal.
NC End-of-Course tests must be used as final exams.

All students taking courses with End-of-Course tests are required to take the End-of-Course test.

Students who fail to take End-of-Course tests will not be allowed to re-enroll at any Iredell-Statesville high school unit until the test is completed.

Students taking exams will remain in class during the entire exam period.
EXAM EXEMPTIONS

All students are eligible for exam exemptions.

No student may exempt an exam if the course has a North Carolina End-of-Course (EOC) or VOCATS test.

The exam exemption policy is a GIFT, not a right.

ALL absences count as absences with respect to exam exemptions except field trips or any school related activity.

College days, funerals, sick days, In-School Suspensions, and all other absences count as absences with respect to exam exemptions.

Any OSS results in loss of exam exemption privilege.

Make up time does not count toward exam exemptions. For exemption purposes, an absence is an absence.

Absence and grade criteria for exemption are:
3 absences
Not more than
A average
Course Average
2 absences
1 absence
B average
C average
STUDENT RECORDS
The guidance office maintains all student records including official transcripts, immunization records, etc. The student’s parent and/or legal guardian, or the student if he/she is 18 yrs. of age or older and the school personnel are the only people who are allowed to examine a student’s permanent record.
TRANSCRIPTS
There is a fee of $1.00 for each transcript. The fee must be paid at the time of the request. Requests for transcripts should be made in writing and well in advance of any deadline date.
COLLEGE TEST REQUIREMENTS
All geometry students are encouraged to take the PSAT in October. The SAT and/or ACT should be taken during the latter part of the junior year and is generally taken again during the 1 st semester of the senior year. The SAT should not be taken until the student has completed Algebra II. Students planning to attend community colleges or technical institutes should contact the college admissions office regarding placement exams. All information regarding test procedures and registration is available in the guidance office.
Dates are available from the guidance office.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
The principal or assistant principals must approve a schedule change based on the following criteria:
Error in scheduling
Class overloads
Error in placement
Desire to make schedule more rigorous
Students must meet all classes on their schedule until their schedule is officially changed. Teachers are not to admit or drop a student from their class until the proper drop/add notice is received. Students enrolled in EOC classes must drop the class within the first 10 days of enrollment.
3

ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Students who enter AP contract agreements will be expected to fulfill contractual obligations. Students who take these courses are required to take appropriate advanced placement examinations. Moreover, students are required to pay advanced placement examinations fees during the 1 st 10 days of the course origination semester and/or a time designated by the school improvement team. The district reimburses students for the AP exams provided that the student scores a “3” or higher on the exam. Any student and/or family who need specific financial assistance related to this policy may contact the school’s AP testing coordinator for assistance.
I-SS School Board Policy 3100
STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The faculty and staff at NIHS are aware that a student’s personal problems may have an affect on academic performance. The
Student Assistance Program (SAP) is part of the ISS Student Services available to students and families who may be experiencing a difficult time in their lives. SAP will assist with the development of positive coping skills, assessment and referral sources, case management, and a variety of activities that foster positive changes in behavior and outlook on the future. Group and/or individual sessions may involve topics such as drug and alcohol abuse, anger management, violence prevention, stress management, attendance issues, pregnancy, grief, etc.
SAP is comprised of the SAP Coordinator, Kim Swofford, and Core Team members who have had extensive training in specialized areas that enable them to assist students with value clarification, self-concept, character education, decision making, and coping skills. All information is strictly confidential to better serve the student and family during the challenges they are facing.
CLUBS and ORGANIZATIONS
Students are encouraged to become involved in school activities. The following is a list of organizations open to students at
North Iredell High School:
National Vocational Honor Society
National Honor Society
FFA
FBLA
Technology Student Association
PATH
Interact
Student Government
SADD
FCA
Art Club
Quiz Bowl
FCCLA
SAVE
FCS
FTA
Drama
Band
Rodeo Club
Movement Within
Spanish Club
JETS
HOSA
Writers Club
Science Club
Key Club
Bowling
JROTC
Pep Club
Chorus
Science Wizards
Animee
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Your student government provides for student activities, serves as a training experience for both leaders and followers, promotes the common good and gives students a share in the management of the school. Members of the student government are elected representatives and officers are expected to attend School Improvement Team meetings.
Title IX – Sex Discrimination
Dr. Steve Hill
Assistant Superintendent
410 Garfield St.
Statesville, NC 28677
Phone: 704-832-2525
FOR NOTIFICATION OF GRIEVANCES
Handicapping Condition
Exceptional Children’s Dept.
410 Garfield St.
Statesville, NC 28677
Phone: 704-873-9432
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The school office provides a daily bulletin that is posted on the schools’ website. Announcements will be made when necessary to notify students of important information.
4

AGENDAS / HALL PASS
Students must display an official NIHS agenda signed by a teacher, early dismissal note, or discipline notice to be in the halls during class time . Students without a hall pass will be returned to class and subject to disciplinary action.
Agendas will be provided for every student at the beginning of the school year. If the student loses an agenda, he/she
MUST purchase a new one.
NO AGENDA = NO PASS
LOCKERS
Students are to spend the first week of school learning the best route to take from class to class. After the first week, locker assignments will be made beginning with seniors. Students will choose their locker based on availability and conveniences in the cafeteria during their lunch period.
Mechanical problems with the locker should be reported to the office. Use your lockers only during class changes. Lockers are expected to be closed at all times.
Students are expected to keep lockers clean and are not to be defaced or vandalized.
Students are encouraged to put locks on their lockers if they don’t lock automatically. Students may not use lockers between lunch periods since other classes are in session.
JUNIOR-SENIOR PROM POLICIES

The prom will be a formal dance. Formal attire should reflect positively on our school. Girls may not wear dresses that are open at the midriff or that are revealing. Administration will have final say concerning dress.

The policy for attending the prom will be distributed to the Juniors and Seniors.
DESIGNATED CAMPUS AREAS
Students are permitted only in approved designated areas when on campus. During class changes, all students should remain between buildings. During lunchtime, students must remain in the cafeteria or the concrete patio below the steps outside the cafeteria. Seniors may use the courtyard. No students are to be in the perimeter areas such as the stadium, ball fields, PARKING
LOTS , behind B-bldg., etc. during the course of the day. Students found in these areas will be subject to disciplinary action according to the discipline policy.
RESTROOM USE
Students should use the restrooms before school, between classes, at lunch and after school. If you need to go more often, a doctor’s statement is required.
ELEVATOR USE
Students requiring the use of the elevator must present a doctor’s request to the office to acquire a key. Only those students who have been issued a key may use the elevator. Any other student caught on the elevator will be issued a discipline notice.
Students caught using the elevator improperly will be asked to return their key. Keys have to be returned to the office or the student will be charged a $10.00 replacement fee.
LOST and FOUND
Any personal belongings found on campus should be turned in to the office. Any student missing belongings should check in the office. However, the school can not be responsible for money, books, clothing, etc. left unattended and/or in an unlocked locker.
FIELD TRIPS
Students are required to have written permission from their parents before going on any school sponsored trip. Students going on field trips are not counted absent.
MEDICAL SUPPLIES, SICKNESS and EMERGENCIES

The school nurse visits the school at least once a week. Students should come to the office and request to see the nurse.
 Students with special medical problems or physical handicap should notify the office staff and the student’s teachers.

Students can not carry prescribed or over the counter medications to school. It is against the law for school officials to supply any medicine. However; if medication is required during the school day please contact the school nurse. The school can help with emergency first aid. Parents will be notified if a student is too ill to remain at school.
5


All accidents at school involving personal injury should be reported to the office, whether the student has school insurance or not. Please make sure the teacher completes an accident report.
TEXTBOOKS
All basic textbooks are loaned to students for use during the school year. Textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully.
Students will be required to pay for lost or damaged books. Report cards and schedules will not be mailed to any students who owe fees for books.
VISITORS
ALL visitors must check in with the security guard and report to the main office. Students are not permitted to invite friends from other schools as guests to NIHS. Children under school age are not to be brought to school during school hours.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
At the beginning of school, each teacher will explain where to exit the building in case of fire or other hazards. The teachers will escort their classes to the designated area and the students are expected to proceed in an orderly manner and re-enter the building only after the all-clear signal is given. Periodic safety drills will be held in compliance with state policies.
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
The school day schedule will be between the hours of 7:45 AM – 3:15 PM.

Absences that occur as a result of out-of-school suspension SHOULD be made up for attendance purposes.

Students on a late bus will report to the main office and sign-in on a form for their late bus. These students should be admitted to class without being counted tardy.

It is the responsibility of the student to contact his/her teachers on the first day of his/her return to school following an absence
 to arrange for make-up time and work. All assigned make-up work will be completed outside of regular class time within 5 school days (except in the case of consecutive multiple absences).
A student must attend school 50% of the school day to be counted present for the entire day. Also, a student must attend a specific class 50% of the period in order to be counted present for that class.

Students absent from school and/or class because of an official school-sponsored activity will not be counted absent from either school or specific classes. School related activities must be approved in advance by the principal. Students will be responsible for making up missed classwork.

Students must be in attendance 50% of the school day to participate in or to observe extra-curricular activities. (Examples: athletic events, school activities, class plays, concerts, etc.) Exceptions may be approved by the principal.
ADMISSION SLIP PROCEDURES
When a student is absent or suspended from school or from any class during the day, an admission slip must be obtain in the cafeteria before school and must be presented to each teacher to be admitted to class the following day.

Students must provide a written explanation from a parent on why they were out of school. They have 2 days to present this note and after the 2 days it will be coded unexcused.

The note should include first and last name, NCWISE #, parent’s phone number, dates absent, reason for being out, and a parent’s signature. This note should be brought to the cafeteria before school starts so the student will not be tardy to class.
Notes written after the tardy bell rings will include a tardy to school note.

Students are responsible for keeping the admission slip throughout the day to show to each teacher of a class that was missed.
The teacher must initial the admission slip for the period the student missed. If a student can not present the admit slip or its duplicate by the next class period on the next day, a discipline referral will be written for cutting class.

Students who have been suspended must obtain an admission slip from the attendance secretary in the cafeteria and follow the same procedures.

Students who report to class without an admission slip will be sent to the attendance office for a slip. The student will be given an admission slip and assigned an unexcused tardy.
EARLY DISMISSAL POLICY

Students leaving school during the day must get an early dismissal slip before school begins in the cafeteria from the attendance secretary. Phone call early dismissals may be denied due to safety issues if parental identity can not be verified.
6


No student will be allowed to leave campus during the school day without permission from the parents. Students must provide a written explanation from the parent and/or guardian explaining why an early dismissal is needed with the time, date and contact number shown on the note. Class work missed due to an early dismissal must be made up immediately.

Students leaving campus with early dismissals or for any reason have to sign-out in the office and with the security guard when leaving. Parents coming to the school must check-in with the security guard and come to the office to get the student. If someone other than the parent is giving permission for a student to leave school and/or is picking up the student, the office must have this information in writing from the parent.

Students that leave with early dismissals and return to school during school hours MUST check back in with the security guard and office to record the time they returned to school.

NO early dismissals will be allowed on exam days.
EXCESSIVE ABSENCE/MAKE-UP SCHOOL BOARD POLICY #4400
Students absent from school and/or individual classes more than 3 times during any nine-week period (whether lawful or unlawful) will receive a code of FA (failure due to attendance) for the specific nine-week period. For the code FA (failure due to attendance) to be removed, time and work must be made up within the timeframe specified by the principal.
High school students must make up class time on an hour-for-hour basis. It is important for students to begin making up time immediately after each absence.
Make-up classes are organized by the principal and may be offered before school, after school, or on Saturday morning. The school system may provide additional make-up opportunities during an extended day and/or summer school program.
The total number of absences for a 90-day term cannot exceed 6 (lawful or unlawful).
If a student is absent from school and/or individual classes more than 6 times, he/she will not receive credit for the course(s) unless make-up classes are completed or the school attendance committee grants a waiver.
WAIVERS
Waivers for absences will be considered for extreme extenuating circumstances, provided the appropriate written documentation is attached and all efforts to make up time have been exhausted. In order to adhere to school board policy and to provide additional opportunities for student waiver requests, the attendance committee will convene within the last 5 days of EACH 9
WEEK PERIOD. The committee will review the waiver request and determine if the student must make up time missed.
The attendance committee encourages you to take attendance very seriously and to make all efforts possible to keep absences to a minimum. The deadlines for returning waiver requests for each grading period are as follows:
1 st 9 Weeks -
2 nd 9 Weeks -
3 rd 9 Weeks -
4 th 9 Weeks - by 10/23/08 by 1/7/09 by 3/20/09 by 5/29/09
Waiver request forms and instructions may be obtained from the SAP Coordinator. All waiver decisions are subject to principal discretion. Waived days will still count as absences with respect to the exam exemption policy.
TARDY POLICY
The philosophy at NIHS is to foster good character development, which includes the responsibility of students to arrive at school and to class on time. ALL students are expected to be at school and in each class before the tardy bell rings. The following are guidelines for tardies to school and/or class:

ALL students must sign-in in the office and with the security guard when they are tardy to school.

Students with written explanation from their parent/guardian or doctor/dentist will be given an excused tardy if the reason is applicable. Please include a contact number.

Students reporting to school tardy without a parental explanation will be given an unexcused tardy.

The student will be counted absent for the class(es) they have missed due to being tardy to school and/or class.

Parents will be notified by Connect Ed message.
TARDY – WHEN A STUDENT IS NOT COMPLETELY IN THE CLASSROOM WHEN THE TARDY BELL BEGINS
TO RING.

Three unexcused tardies to class will result in an absence to that class.

Teachers will complete tardy/absence form and file in their rooms.
7


Students may make days up with the teacher for whom they owe time, ASD (After School Detention), BSD (Before School
Detention), or Saturday School.

Tardies start over at the end of each nine weeks. More than 3 absences will result in an FA for that nine weeks.
BUS TRANSPORTATION POLICY
Most of our buses are loaded to the maximum state capacity. Students are granted the privilege of riding school buses to and from school, but are not to serve as a taxi service.
Appropriate behavior is required at all times while on the bus and at the bus stop. Students must ride the bus to which they are assigned. If there is an emergency to ride a different bus, written permission is required from the parents with approval from administration. The request needs to be submitted before 1 st period so verification can be established and must include parental contact information. Disciplinary actions for bus violations below will include bus suspension, suspension from school or other action deemed appropriate by the administration.

Students must get on/off bus at their assigned stop and should be at the bus stop at the assigned time.

Seats will be assigned and students are expected to remain in their assigned seat for the entire route.

Loud talking, yelling, screaming, profanity, horseplay or any other distraction to the bus driver is prohibited.

Any school discipline policy applies to school buses including tobacco, alcohol, drugs, weapons, etc.

Students are not allowed to place any part of their bodies outside bus windows.

No food or drinks may be consumed on the bus.

Any act that creates a safety hazard is considered to be a violation. (i.e. striking a match, throwing objects, etc.)

Any act of disrespect or insubordination toward a driver will not be tolerated.

Students who have vandalized a bus will be required to pay for damages.

Students will not open an emergency door on a bus without authorization from driver.

Students wait for the bus, the bus does not wait for students.
FOOD AND DRINK POLICY
Students may not possess or consume food or drinks except in the cafeteria/cafeteria area or in the gym lobby at the appropriate designated times. Bottled drinks that are outside the cafeteria or the gym lobby must be sealed and out-of-sight. Students may not consume drinks or water in the hallways. Bottled water is allowed in the classrooms, with teacher approval.
CAFETERIA GUIDELINES
Lunch schedules are determined by students’ 3 rd period class. Free and reduced lunches are available to students who qualify according to federal guidelines. Applications are sent home at the beginning of the year. The following are the cafeteria regulations:


No cutting in line, throwing food or displaying inappropriate behavior.

Tables must be left clean and trays returned to proper place.
NO FOOD may be taken from the cafeteria unless special permission is given by the administration.

All students will remain in the cafeteria or in the concrete area between the cafeteria and the back of A-bldg. You will not be allowed in any other areas of the school or inside any of the buildings during lunch.

Seniors will have the privilege of using the senior courtyard during lunches.

Packaged lunches may be brought to school and consumed in the cafeteria. Beverages must be in plastic containers (no glass bottles).
 Only “B” building restrooms may be used during lunch.
The cafeteria is operated by the US Department of Agriculture and it has exclusive rights to all food and proceeds from all food sold during 3 rd period. This means that all vending machines are off limits and clubs may not sell food products before or during
3 rd period .
IREDELL-STATESVILLE SCHOOLS
BOARD OF EDUCATION CHEATING/PLAGIARISM POLICY
(Classroom or Outside Work)
Cheating, either in the classroom or on outside work, will not be tolerated. Honesty is a virtue to be taught and upheld at all levels of education as well as at all levels in society. The School Board directs each school to have written policies at the secondary level concerning cheating. For any instance of cheating persons shall:
 not receive credit on work accomplished by cheating;
 have their parents notified initially by teacher and will have a conference, as appropriate, with principal, teacher and student;
8

 jeopardize their standing in honor societies and other organizations according to the by-laws of each; have additional conferences if loss of credit places student in jeopardy of failing a subject;
 jeopardize their standing in extracurricular functions.
PLAGIARISM : Work submitted that includes the work or thinking of others that is not properly cited shall be considered plagiarism. Disposition shall be determined by the teacher and principal within the context of the assignment. Legal reference
G.S. 115C-288
DRESS CODE
The Board believes that the question of appearance is a shared responsibility of the home and the school.
Note: No clothing, jewelry or other visible accessories displaying vulgarity, obscenity, profanity, inappropriate slogans or symbols, or advertising drugs, alcohol, tobacco or weapons will be allowed. Any items confiscated will be held by administration until the parent comes to school to claim them. It is North Carolina Law that all students wear shoes at all times.
The following requirements will be enforced on campus during the school day:

Shorts (including skorts) must have either a 6 inch inseam OR a maximum of 6 inches above the middle of the kneecap.

Skirts and dresses: a maximum of 4 inches above the middle of the kneecap.

Shirts must meet the following: Sleeves that cover the shoulder and underarm (no off-shoulder shirts). Necklines with no visible cleavage .

No visible undergarments

No pants worn below the waist.

No transparent, skintight or slashed clothing (must meet the 4 inch requirement)

No inappropriate symbols, words, pictures, or articles depicting violence, tobacco, drugs, alcohol, sex, vulgarity, demeaning to race or gang-related (ex/ sweatband/bandanas/scarves).

No wallet chains or jewelry (including spiked jewelry) that poses a safety hazard.

No pajamas, bedroom shoes, blankets, pillows or stuffed animals.

No headgear (Hats, Hoods, and Toboggans) should be removed when entering the building.
Dress Code/Headgear Violation Consequences
1 st offense: Loaner garments will be worn if student is unable to correct problem with a different garment*/ Headgear taken, placed in office for student to pick up at the end of the day.
2 nd offense: 45 minute detention will be assigned and loaner garments will be worn if student is unable to correct problem with a different garment*, parent contacted/Headgear taken, placed in the office for parent to pick up and a 45 minute detention will be assigned.
3 rd offense: Loaner garments will be worn if student is unable to correct problem with a different garment*, parent contacted and student assigned an ABC (student will not be allowed to return to school until parent conference)/ Headgear taken, placed in office for parent to pick up, student assigned an ABC (student will not be allowed to return to school until parent conference).
4 th offense: OSS will be assigned progressively for each offense, parent contacted.
*Garments will be provided in exchange for inappropriate clothing. Failure to comply will result in student being removed from school until the correction is made. Parental notification will precede dismissal to allow for reconciliation.
Students and faculty have the responsibility to report obvious offenders immediately upon detection and to send them to the office.
STUDENTS DRIVING TO SCHOOL POLICY
Seniors and juniors who wish to park on campus must complete an application form, provide a copy of their driver’s license and pay the required $40.00 fee. Individual parking spaces will be assigned to each student. Students may pick their spaces on first come – first serve basis. Seniors will be given first priority. Students may not park in assigned numbered staff parking spaces. A numbered parking permit will be issued and must be displayed on the rear view mirror at all times.
This number corresponds to an assigned parking space. If a student should lose his/her parking permit, he/she must purchase another at full price at the beginning of the new semester if eligible. A limited number of sophomores who wish to drive to school must have a driver’s license and a completed form at the time of application. Obtaining a parking permit will be dependent upon space and the conditions stated on the parking application. Permits will be sold on the 15 th of each month.
Students will be cited parking tickets (with fines) and/or lose their privilege to park on campus for the following reasons:
1.
Students must pass 3 of 4 subjects from the previous semester in order to apply for and maintain a parking permit.
2.
Parking in an undesignated area and/or improper parking across lines, etc.
3.
Failure to purchase and/or display the parking permit.
9

4.
Speeding in excess of 10 mph or other reckless driving.
5.
Remaining in the parking lot after arrival on campus and/or remaining on campus after school hours unless they are here for a supervised activity.
6.
Going to the parking lot during school hours without permission.
7.
Leaving campus without permission or taking another student off campus who does not have permission to leave.
8.
More than 3 tardies (excused or unexcused excluding doctor/dental/court notes) to school per nine weeks (3 tardies will receive a parking ticket/6 tardies will result in loss of parking permit).
9.
Lending a parking permit to another student will result in both students losing their parking privileges)
10.
Vehicle unregistered with school. (must sign-in vehicle information in the office if driving a different vehicle).
11.
Littering parking lot or grounds.
12.
Painting or defacing parking spaces.
NO REFUND WILL BE GIVEN FOR LOSS OF PARKING PRIVILEGE DUE TO VIOLATIONS.
***Parking vehicles on campus is a privilege. Violation of Iredell-Statesville Schools and/or NIHS discipline policies could result in the loss of parking privileges. Any vehicle parked on the campus of NIHS is subject to search by school administrators and law enforcement when reasonable suspicion exists.
Iredell-Statesville Schools/North Iredell High is not responsible for losses due to car accidents, theft, or vandalism.
DRIVING ELIGIBILITY POLICY
NC State Law (effective August 1998)
The Dropout Prevention/Driver’s License legislation reflects a coordinated statewide effort to motivate and encourage students to complete high school. The revocation of a student’s driving permit or license will result if a student is unable to maintain adequate academic progress or drops out of school.
Students who drop out of school or do not maintain adequate academic progress will lose their NC driver’s license/permit for a semester or will not be eligible to obtain a driver’s license/permit. Adequate progress will be evaluated at the end of each semester.
Adequate progress means a student must pass 3 out of 4 courses each semester which means they must pass 70% of all classes taken. Students losing their license/permit due to grades will be eligible to get their license/permit back at the end of the semester they resume adequate academic progress (or turn 18 years of age). Students who are 18 years old are exempt from this law.
Students who are not exempt from this law will have to get a driving eligibility form from the NCWISE office before going to get their permit/license. In order to get an eligibility form students have to be passing 3 out of 4 classes for the previous semester and will need to bring their driver’s education certificate, SS card and their CERTIFIED birth certificate (not the one you get from the hospital). This certificate is only valid for 30-days once it has been issued by the school. This should be requested in a timely fashion.
MEDIA CENTER REGULATIONS
The Media Center is open from 7:45 am to 3:15 pm daily.
The following policies should be adhered to:

Students must provide a signed pass from a teacher in order to be admitted to the media center during the school day. Passes are not required for entering before and/or after school.

Overdue fines are charged at a rate of 5 cents per day for books.

Lost and/or damaged material must be paid for. Grades will be held until materials are returned and/or fees are paid. Report
 cards are not mailed until all fees are paid.
Students may NOT bring food or drinks into the media center.
GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
Students must follow all I-SS Board of Education and NIHS behavior policies at all times when on campus, on a school bus or at a bus stop, during all school functions and activities, and any time or place when the student’s behavior has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline in the school.
Students are expected to follow the direction and instructions of their teachers and school authorities.
Common courtesy and respect for the rights of others should be observed at all times.
Students may use school buildings and other facilities only under the direct supervision of the school staff. A faculty member must be physically present and actively supervising activities held in the school building or athletic fields.

Students should leave the school campus immediately after school unless participating in a supervised activity. Arrangements should be made to pick students up no later than 30 minutes upon completion of a school activity.
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
The deliberate destruction/defacing of school property will not be tolerated. Anyone who damages or destroys school property will be expected to pay for the damages. Additional disciplinary action may be taken for more serious offences.

Students are not allowed to receive deliveries such as flowers, gifts, etc. The office staff will call a student to the office for items such as lunch, money, etc. (needed items). It will be the responsibility of the student to pick up items in the office.

Pamphlets, posters and other published materials brought or posted on school bulletin boards must be approved by the administration. No items are to be taped to the walls, doors or window glass. Any club placing posters will be responsible for removing them following the event.

Any type of personal entertainment device, skateboards, toys, sharp instruments, chains of any kind and dangerous objects
 have no place at school and will be confiscated. Parents may pick them up from the office within 5 days.

Students are prohibited from selling anything at school that is not school sponsored.

Students are not allowed to smoke, chew or possess tobacco products on school property, school buses or at school activities.
The use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol is illegal, harmful, and prohibited on school premises or at any school activities.

Public display of affection has no place at school. Students observed hugging, kissing or displaying other forms of affection before, during, and after school will be subject to disciplinary action.

Fighting on school grounds will result in immediate suspension and a charge by the School Resource Officer.

The office will take important messages for students and call them to the office when necessary. Students are allowed to use the phones in the offices or library in the case of an emergency and with staff permission.

Laser lights can cause severe damage to the eyes and are not allowed on school campus, school buses, or activity buses.
Possession of a laser light will result in disciplinary action.
Major Offenses
(Level 1: Offenses may result in charge by law enforcement.)

Weapons On Campus: Any student who has possession of a firearm or weapon, or brings a weapon on the school campus, onto regular or activity buses, or to any school-related event or activity sponsored by the lredell-Statesville Schools will be 1) referred to the criminal justice system 2) prosecuted to the full extent of the law and 3) suspended immediately from school
(365 days), and/or 4) recommendation for expulsion.

Sexual Offense

Fighting, intimidating, initiating racial slurs, hazing, bullying, horseplay, causing physical harm and/or assaulting a student or other person not employed by the school

Arson

Assault or intimidation of school employee

Theft of school or private property

Selling, transmitting, or distributing drugs (OSS for remainder of school year)

Possession or under the influence of drugs/alcohol or odor of drugs/alcohol on person

Failure to abide by the lredell-Statesville School Board Policies relating to metal detector's and search and seizures.

On school grounds during suspension, without prior permission

Any act which is a felony under North Carolina law whether inside or outside of the school.

Bomb threats
Consequences: Up to 10 days of OSS or expulsion from school, and referral to the criminal justice system for arrest.
Major Offenses
(Level 2: Non-Chargeable)
The following conduct constitutes a major offense - level 2 (non-chargeable):

Possession of and/or use of tobacco products, lighters, and matches

Substantial disruption of school

Damage or destruction of school and/or private property

Possession of dangerous objects

Blatant disrespect/insubordination

Cursing/threatening a school staff member

Chronic serious offenders

Any act that shocks the social conscience and/or disrupts the school environment
See Appendix 1.1 for Discipline Consequences
Serious Offenses
Includes: Possession of laser lights, giving false information; cutting class; profanity; disrespect of authority; failure/refusal to obey reasonable request or punishment; leaving the classroom without permission; leaving campus without checking out; gambling; inappropriate social behavior; disruptive behavior; any behavior which may endanger the health and safety of others, any act considered a misdemeanor under North Carolina law and is not included above.
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See Appendix 1.2 for Discipline Consequences
Minor Offenses
The following are examples of minor offenses:
Any inappropriate classroom behavior that violate the individual teacher's classroom rules, food or drink in the classroom or halls; public displays of affection (inappropriate touching or kissing); running in halls or to buses; being in unauthorized areas during lunch; breaking line in the cafeteria; unauthorized presence in school parking lots during the day; littering; unnecessary noises; sunglasses in the buildings or classrooms; cheating/plagiarism; selling of items or solicitations that are not school sponsored.
See Appendix 1.3 for Discipline Consequences
*NOTE* Inappropriate behavior in In-School-Suspension will result in OSS for at least the remaining time in In-School-
Suspension.
Definitions of Selected Offenses
Sexual Harassment
May include any of the following actions among other things:

Deliberate exposure of a private body part.

Inappropriate physical contact that can be interpreted as sexual contact (i.e. pinching or patting).

Verbal sex-oriented insults or subtle pressure for sexual activity.

Demands for sexual favors.
Sexual Harassment constitutes a Major Offense – Level I and can lead to a 10-day suspension and an arrest. Parents will be contacted and students will be referred to SAP. Students may be required to receive outside counseling.
Bullying
Bullying is defined as repeated, hurtful behavior designed to intimidate or harass others. Bullying behavior includes: physical, verbal, social/relational, and sexual harassment.
Physical: hitting, punching, pinching, etc.
Verbal: direct insults/put downs, name calling
Social/Relational Aggression: spreading rumors/lies about someone to damage their reputation or punish them socially
Sexual Harassment: continued, unwanted attention of a sexual nature.
Consequences for students who commit acts of bullying will depend on the severity of the behavior.
TOBACCO POLICY
All Tobacco Use Prohibited
The Iredell-Statesville Board of Education has adopted a tobacco-free policy on all school campuses by students, employees, and visitors at all times. Please comply with the policy by refraining from tobacco use when on the North Iredell High School campus regardless of the event.
The health education curriculum of the Iredell-Statesville Schools will address tobacco products with students in the substance abuse program in all grades.
Consequences for students will be:
1 st offense – 3 days OSS
2 nd offense – 5 days OSS
3 rd offense – 10 days OSS
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION/ELECTRONIC DEVICES
In accordance with the Iredell-Statesville School Board Policy, high school students will be allowed to keep wireless communication devices in their vehicle or locked in a locker during the school day. The device should be in the off position and out of sight at all times during the school day. At no time should wireless communication/electronic devices be used by students in the school buildings. Students are allowed use of wireless communication/electronic devices outside the buildings before the first bell and after the last bell of the day.
Consequences are as follows:
1 st offense – Warning; Device confiscated and held until the end of the school day for student to pick-up.
2 nd offense – Device will be confiscated until parent conference.
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3 rd offense – 1 day OSS
4 th offense – 2 days OSS
5 th offense – 3 days OSS and progressively from each infraction
SUSPENSION from SCHOOL
Students who have been short or long term suspended from any school in the Iredell-Statesville School System may not attend any paid or free school event sponsored by that school or any other school within Iredell-Statesville School System during the duration of the suspension.
Make-up of Work : Students who are suspended from school are entitled to make-up major tests and exams. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the teacher on the day of his/her return to school. Make-up work will not be accepted after five (5) days have passed after the student returns to school and the student will be assigned a zero for the missed work. Students who are assigned to ASD (After-School-Detention), BSD (Before-School-Detention) and Saturday School must bring work do.
INVOLVEMENT of the CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
Any student who is involved with incidents of misconduct relating to violence, drugs and alcohol, communicating threats, or theft on or related to school campus, or regular school buses or activity buses, or at any local school event or activity sponsored by the
Iredell-Statesville schools, may be prosecuted in accordance with the General Statutes of North Carolina and will be subject to disciplinary action.
DRUGS and ALCOHOL
ALTERNATE PROVISIONS
Drug education will be a part of the curriculum at all grade levels in the Iredell-Statesville Schools. A “no use” message will be taught from the kindergarten through grade 12, teaching why drug use is wrong and harmful to self and others, while supporting and strengthening resistance to drug use. Intervention will be included in the comprehensive drug education program.
Any student found to have violated the provisions of the Discipline Policy dealing with alcohol and/or other drugs may be dealt with in this section. A student may not knowingly possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind:
1) on the school grounds during, immediately before or immediately after school hours,
2) on the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group, or
3) off the school grounds at a school activity, function, or event, and on school-provided or sponsored transportation.
In order to help students involved with drugs and alcohol, the school system will assist parents and students by making referrals to local drug and alcohol intervention agencies and make available a list of agencies that work with alcohol and drug-related problems.
School staff recommendations may include, but are not limited to obtaining a Substance Abuse Assessment from a local, stateapproved alcohol/drug agency or clinician and following the treatment recommendations provided and participation in any appropriate programs provided in the school setting.
All costs and/or fees related to the recommendation of appropriate school staff are the burden of the student and/or parents.
Refer to I-SS School Board Policy 4325 for more information concerning the Drugs and Alcohol Policy.
DUE PROCESS
The following due process must be given to any student prior to being suspended for ten (10) days or less:
The student must be given written notice of the charges against him/her.

If the student denies the charges, authorities must give the student evidence supporting the charges.

The student must have an opportunity to present his/her side of the story.
Due process for offenses resulting in suspensions for more than ten (10) days or expulsion:

If a student violates a school policy and the principal determines that a suspension of more than ten (10) days or expulsion is required, the principal will: a) give the student a written notice of charges, b) give parents a written notice of suspension and c)
 advise the student of his/her rights appeal.
The first level of appeal is to the school appeals committee through written request to the principal within five (5) school days following the notice of suspension to the student.
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 The appeals committee will hear the student’s appeal and make a recommendation to the principal. If the student is not satisfied with the recommendation of the appeals committee, he/she may request in writing within five (5) school days that the
Superintendent review the appeal.
 The Superintendent, using an administrative staff committee, will review the student’s discipline case. The administrative committee will make a recommendation to the Superintendent. The Superintendent will inform the parents and student in writing as to the decision of the Superintendent and administrative committee.

If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Superintendent, he/she may request in writing within five school days that the appeal be heard by the full board of education. The Superintendent will inform the student and parents of the decision of the board.

Appeals beyond the decision of the full board of education rest with the courts.
In accordance with G.S. 115C-238.419(c)(3)d, a student 14 years and older who commits a major offense and whose behavior shows that the student’s continued presence at school clearly threatens the safety of other students or staff may be expelled from school by the Board of Education.
Upon review and consideration of evidence related to a student’s acts or conduct, either on or off the school grounds, the school principal, after considering available alternative programs, will recommend in writing to the superintendent that a particular student be expelled from school.
In determining if a recommendation is appropriate, the school principal will follow the “State Board of Education Guidelines of
Acts and Conduct that are a Clear Threat to the Safety of Students and Others."
At the time of the recommended expulsion, the principal will a) give the student a written notice of charges, b) give parents a written notice of suspension and c) advise the student of the principal’s recommendation. (The formal appeals process will apply.)
Athletic Requirements
NIHS is in the North Piedmont 3-A Conference. To be eligible for sports participation a student must follow these requirements:

Have been in attendance for at least 85% of the previous semester at an approved school.

Not have exceeded eight consecutive semesters of attendance or have participated more than four seasons in any sport since first entering the 9 th grade.

Be less than 19 years of age on October 16 th of the current school year.

Live with your parents or legal guardians within the school administrative unit (exceptions must be approved by your school principal and the school board).

Have passed a minimum of 3 courses during the previous semester and meet local promotional standards.

Have received a medical examination by a licensed physician within the previous 365 days. If you miss 5 or more days of practice due to illness or injury, you must receive a medical release before practicing or playing.

Athletes and their parents are required to sign a random drug testing consent form.
Scholastic and attendance requirements for eligibility are set by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association and must be applied to all athletes.
Students who plan to participate in any sport in college must complete the NCAA Clearinghouse forms in the guidance office during your junior year. It is the responsibility of the athlete to obtain and complete the form.
EXPECTATIONS OF ATHLETES, PARENTS, COACHES, AND SPECTATORS AT NIHS

Everyone is encouraged to become involved in the athletic program. ALL athletes are required to maintain the highest standard of conduct and behavior on the school campus, in the classroom, at practice and during athletic events.

Profanity will not be tolerated at any time or place.

According to school board policy, a student must be in attendance for the full school day in order to participate in athletic practice or competition.

Anytime the RAIDER logo is displayed NIHS is represented and those individuals must act responsibly and should demonstrate good character and sportsmanship.

An athlete can not quit one sport to start another sport. If he/she quits he/she must wait until that season is over before trying out for the next sport.

An athlete that becomes ineligible during a sports season for any reason also becomes ineligible to letter in that sport for that season.

Each coach will have additional requirements or expectations that will be explained by them to his/her athletes at the start of each season. A coach may require a higher standard, but never a lower one.

An Athletic Handbook is available from coaches with more detailed guidelines pertaining to the athletic program.
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INFRACTION
Possession of Firearm
Possession of Weapons (BB/Pellet/Air Gun,
Bow and Arrow, Knife, Razor Blade, Slingshot,
Brass Knuckles, Martial Arts Weapons, etc
CONSEQUENCE
365 Days OSS + charges
365 Days OSS + charges
Possession of Pocket Knife or Multi-use Tool 10 Days OSS
Possession of Other Knife or Open Pocket
Knife 10 Days OSS + charges
Selling/Transmitting/Distributing Drugs
Possession of Drugs/Alcohol
Under the Influence of Drugs/Alcohol or Odor of Drugs/Alcohol on person
Fighting or Assault
Assault with Serious Injury/Student or school personnel
OSS Remainder of School Year + charges
10 Days OSS + charges
10 Days OSS (possible charges, case by case)
10 Days OSS + charges
10 Days OSS or Expulsion from school + charges
3 - 10 Days OSS (possible charges, case by case) Threats/Harassment/Hazing/Bullying/Horseplay
Felony Arrest Inside/Outside School
Possession or use of Tobacco products/lighters, and matches
Punishment case by case
3, 5, 10 Days OSS
Substantial Disruption of School
Damage or destruction of school and/or private property
Possession of dangerous objects
Blatant disrespect/insubordination
3 - 10 Days OSS
3 - 10 Days OSS
3 - 10 Days OSS
3 - 10 Days OSS
Cursing/threatening a school staff member
Chronic serious offenders
Any act that shocks the social conscience and/or disrupts the school environment
Unauthorized presence at school or school function during a suspension
3 - 10 Days OSS
3 - 10 Days OSS
3 - 10 Days OSS
3 - 10 Days OSS
Arson/Bomb Threats
Sexual Offense
Theft of school or private property
10 Days OSS or Expulsion from school + charges
10 Days OSS or Expulsion from school + charges
10 Days OSS + charges
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INFRACTION
Giving false information
Cutting Class
Inappropriate social behavior
Profanity
Disrespect of authority
Disruptive behavior
Failure/refusal to obey reasonable request or punishment
Leaving classroom without permission
Leaving campus without checking out
CONSEQUENCE
1st Offense: 1 Day ISS
2nd Offense: 2 Days of ISS
3rd Offense: 1 - 3 Days OSS
4th Offense: 3 - 5 Days OSS
5th Offense: 5 - 10 Days OSS
Gambling
Any behavior which may endanger the health and safety of others
Any act considered a misdemeanor under North
Carolina law
Possession of laser lights
MINOR OFFENSES DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
Violation of individual teacher's classroom rules 1st Offense: 1 Day ASD (After-School
Food or drink in the classroom
Public display of affection (inappropriate touching or kissing)
Detention)
2nd Offense: 1 Day Saturday Detention
3rd Offense: 3 Days of ISS Being in unauthorized areas
Unauthorized presence in school parking lots during the day
4th Offense: 1 day of OSS
5th (and each successive Offense):1 - 5
Littering
Inappropriate classroom behavior days OSS
Excessive noise in hallways
Breaking line in the cafeteria
Refusal to follow reasonable request by school personnel
Cheating/Plagiarism
Selling of items or solicitation that is not school sponsored
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