Propel Braddock Hills High School
High School Guide 2011-2012
“Be…Believe…Become”
This guide belongs to:_______________________
Propel Braddock Hills High School is not a traditional high school. It is designed for
serious, self-motivated students that are committed to taking a positive, active role in their
education. We are excited that you have chosen to be a part of this educational experience. Your
success is directly related to your effort and participation in your education.
This High School Guide, including attendance requirements and Propel’s Code of
Conduct, is one important tool in helping students to achieve a successful educational
experience. Although the school staff is here to support you and help you learn, the person who
is ultimately in control of your educational success is you. You are responsible for your success
and you are responsible for not interfering with the Propel Braddock Hills High School learning
environment. You are to help maintain a proper learning environment so that you and others can
succeed. The school is built on the assumption that each student needs to be respected as an
individual learner and person. Along with that respect is the responsibility to take your
education seriously. Giving proper respect is a sign of strength, not weakness.
You are responsible for the contents of this guide. Please note that this guide is updated
annually, but policy changes reflecting revisions in school practices may be made at any time
throughout the year. This guide has been approved by the Board of Trustees and, as such, is
considered to be school policy. In case of any conflict between board policy and any provisions
of this guide, the most recently adopted provisions of the board policy will prevail.
How to use this guide:
This guide is designed to be a valuable tool for students and parents throughout the school year. This
guide will also be posted on the school website under the School Resources tab. Please visit the site at
http://www.propelschools.org/braddockhillshs/
Grading Scale
The following grading scale is implemented by all Advisors at Propel Braddock Hills High School:
A 100-90, B 89-80, C79-70, D 69-60, F 59 or below. Please be advised that any grade below 70 percent
is considered to be a failing grade at Braddock Hills High School. So, while letter grades of D and F will
still appear on report cards, both are considered failing grades.
To earn credit towards graduation, the student must achieve at least a 70 percent in the required class. If
the student fails to earn a 70 percent they must make up the required credits before their graduation date.
The process for making-up credit may be determined by the administration and advisors.
Homework Policy
On average, students can be expected to complete 15 minutes of homework per academic class per night.
Long-term projects will also be assigned, and the time necessary to complete these will vary on a case-bycase basis
Graduation Requirements
Students must have the following completed in order to receive their diploma:
● Earned a minimum of 200 credits.
○ 36 minimum credits of English
○ 36 minimum credits of Math
○ 30 minimum credits of Science
○ 30 minimum credits of Social Studies
○ 12 minimum credits of Creative Arts (Credit exemption for senior year internships only)
○ 56 minimum credits of electives, independent studies, SSR, and/or internships
● Completed 200 hours of documented Service Learning
● Complete a graduation project
Service Learning
Service Learning is an extension of education that allows students to reach out and provide services for
the community. Propel Braddock Hills High School students are required to complete fifty (50) hours of
documented Service Learning per year, totaling two-hundred (200) cumulative hours before graduation.
Course and Credit Requirements
9th Grade
Credits per
Trimester
Credits per Year
English 9
3
9
Civics
3
9
Physical
Science
3
9
Math
3
9
Independent
Study
2
6
Freshman
Seminar
2
6
Creative
Arts
1
3
SSR
.5
1.5
Total Credits
52.5
10th Grade
Credits per
Trimester
Credits per
Year
English 10
3
9
World History
3
9
Chemistry
3
9
Math
3
9
Independent
Study
2
6
Language
2
6
Creative Arts
1
3
SSR
.5
1.5
Total Credits
52.5
11th Grade
Credits per
Trimester
Credits per
Year
English 11
3
9
American History
3
9
Biology
3
9
Math
3
9
Independent Study
2
6
Language
2
6
Creative Arts
1
3
SSR
.5
1.5
Total Credits
52.5
12th Grade
Students in their senior year are given schedule and/or credit earning options which meet their individual
learning needs. Having options awards students the autonomy and flexibility necessary to complete
graduation requirements, take advanced and/or supplemental courses, leave for internship experiences,
and/or learn independently. Students must choose one (1) of the four (4) options for each trimester.
Students and families will discuss these options with the Propel BHHS Transition Coordinator and/or
administration before each new trimester.
Option A: Academic
Credits per
Trimester
Credits per
Year
English 12
3
9
Math Elective
3
9
SS Elective
3
3
Science Elective
3
3
General Elective
4
TBD
Creative Arts
1
3
SSR
0.5
Option B: Credit Recovery
TBD
Credits per
Trimester
Credits
per Year
English 12
3
9
Math Elective
3
9
CR Course/CR Independent
Study/Independent Study/General
Elective/Course Elective
Creative Arts
SSR
2 (for each
elective
course)
1
0.5
TBD
3
TBD
Option C: Independent Study
Credits per
Trimester
Credits per
Year
English 12
3
9
Math Elective
3
9
General Elective/Course Elective
2
TBD
Independent Study
8
TBD
Creative Arts
1
3
SSR
0.5
Option D: Internship
TBD
Credits per
Trimester
Credits per
Year
English 12
3
9
Math Elective
3
9
Independent Study
Internship
3.5
TBD
8
TBD
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Humanities
Propel BHHS believes in taking a comprehensive and cross-curricular approach to English and Social
Studies education. During the Humanities block, students spend two (2) seminar periods focusing on the
interrelatedness of reading, writing, speaking, and listening in conjunction with global understanding.
The English and Social Studies classes are paired by grade level, i.e., English 10 and World History 10
are paired for the sophomore Humanities block.
Honors Humanities is a merit-based, block seminar for students with advanced skills in English and
Social Studies. Students must be nominated for this course by their Advisors and exhibit strong skills in
self-motivation, independence, and responsibility as well as stability via a Proficiency rating on
standardized tests. Honors Humanities classes are offered to students in grades 10-12.
English
● English 9 - Introduction to English
9th Grade, 9 credits
English 9 engages students in critical reading and literary analysis of short stories, poetry, novels
and nonfiction. The course addresses literary devices, literary terms, poetic devices and poetic
terms. Through projects, writing assignments, class discussions and assessments students will
discover how authors use these elements to create deep, rich meaningful texts. Students will gain
skills in academic writing including persuasive writing, researching, quoting text, citing sources
and developing thesis statements. Vocabulary skills, grammar and usage are expanded through
critical reading and constructed response writing.
●
English 10 - World Literature
10th Grade, 9 credits
English 10 builds on the critical reading and writing skills gained in English 9. Students will read
a variety of works including short stories, poetry, novels, drama and nonfiction with a
concentration in literature from across the world. Students will use literary analysis, make
connections between texts and express themselves in writing, discussion and presentations. There
will be a concentration on essay writing skills: pre-writing, multiple drafts and revisions.
Students will complete a research project using multiple sources.
●
Honors English
10th & 11th Grade, 9 credits
Honors English is an intensive English course. Students will read many novels, plays, nonfiction,
poetry and short stories. Critical thinking and in-depth analysis are essential to this course.
Students will spend time reading outside of class which will allow critical analysis in discussion
circles, in-class writing and peer revision. Students will apply close readings to see and
understand the nuances and structures that contribute to the overall meaning of texts. Students
will complete a research essay utilizing multiple sources and drafts.
●
English 11 - American Literature
11th Grade, 9 credits
English 11 builds on the critical reading and writing skills gained in English 10. Students will
read a variety of works including short stories, poetry, novels, drama and nonfiction. Student will
use literary analysis, make connections between texts and express themselves in writing,
discussion and presentations. Students will begin to work more independently and in small
groups to achieve these goals. Students will prepare for success on standardized tests including
the SATs and PSSAs. Students will expand on their writing skills with a research essay utilizing
multiple sources.
●
English 12
12th Grade, 9 credits
Students will concentrate on writing resumes, cover letters and entrance essays. Students will
also build off of their knowledge from English 11 to write academic based essays to prepare for
college-level composition courses. Students will do research pertaining to their future careers.
Students will also read various fiction, nonfiction, drama and poetry across several genres in
preparation for college-level literature classes.
Social Studies
● Civics
9th Grade, 9 credits
World Geography is a mandatory, one-year course for all freshmen enrolled at Propel BHHS.
World Geography allows students to analyze geographic information presented in texts,
photographs, charts, and maps using the five themes of geography. These five themes include:
location, regions, place, movement, and human-environment interaction. This course engages
students in the analytical skills necessary to think critically about their individual roles in our
communities and the global world. The content of geography is used to develop and enhance
reading, writing, and social studies skills.
●
World History
10th Grade, 9 credits
World History is a mandatory, one-year course for all sophomores enrolled at Propel BHHS. The
study of World History provides students with an opportunity to understand the people and ideas
of the past. The value of history comes from the understanding of how and why people behave
the way they do in all aspects of our individual lives and societies on the whole. Studies focus on
ancient civilizations, the Greeks and Romans, the Renaissance, colonization, revolutions, as well
as conflict and globalization in the 21st century. This course develops and enhances skills
relevant to reading and writing about history while thinking critically and analyzing perspectives
and biases.
●
American History
11th Grade, 9 credits
American History is a mandatory, one-year course for all juniors enrolled at Propel BHHS. The
study of American History provides students with the ability to define, describe, discuss,
interpret, examine, and evaluate the timeline of America’s historical content. American History is
a course based on a student’s prerequisite understanding of World History content, and its
application to the social, political, and economic fabric of the United States and its numerous and
diverse cultures. American History begins with the study of pre-Columbian societies, and follows
its development throughout Colonial America, Revolutionary America, the Early American
Republic, the Civil War, Reconstruction, post-Reconstruction, Westward Expansion, Industrial
America, early 20th century, and modern American History. This course enhances a student’s
ability to apply reading and writing skills in a mature approach to construct an understanding of
America’s rich and intricate history, as well as provides practice for necessary secondary and
post-secondary academic and life skills.
Math
● Algebra I
9 credits
Algebra I is the foundation for all high school math courses. Topics include simplifying
expressions, evaluating, solving equations and inequalities, linear equations, exponents, systems
of equations, rational expressions, and polynomials. Students must pass at least two (2) out of the
three (3) trimesters to be eligible to move onto the next math course.
Prerequisite: None
●
Geometry
9 credits
Geometry is a course in which students use their knowledge of Algebra to study the size, shape,
and position of two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects. Topics include congruency,
similarity, right triangles, trigonometry, proofs, transformations, measurement, circles and
modeling.
Prerequisite: Algebra I
●
Algebra II
9 credits
Algebra II expands upon math skills covered in Algebra I. Topics include expressions, equations,
inequalities, systems of equations, linear functions, quadratic functions, polynomial functions,
radical functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, rational functions, sequences and
series, probability and statistics and matrices.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
●
Precalculus
9 credits
Precalculus is a course designed to prepare students for Calculus. Topics include number sets,
linear functions, polynomial functions, composite functions, rational functions, exponention
functions, logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, trigonometry, matrices, series and
sequences, and introduction to Calculus.
Prerequisite: Geometry & Algebra 2
Science
● Physical Science
9th Grade, 9 credits
This physical science course covers a variety of topics in Physics, Earth Science, and Astronomy.
In this seminar, students will gain a solid understanding of the physics of motion, the flow of
matter on Earth, and the role of energy in our universe. Students will study the physics of force
and motion using a project-based approach to learning, leading to the development of the
problem-solving skills necessary to become self-directed learners. In the Earth Science portion of
this course students will explore the processes that take place in and on the planet Earth, as well
as the Earth’s resources. Finally, in our astronomy unit, students will investigate the science of
space by focusing on the origin and evolution of our universe. Throughout the school year,
students will use the scientific method to study the world we live in and to find solutions to
current and future obstacles that confront humans as a species.
●
Chemistry
10th Grade, 9 credits
This chemistry course is designed to teach students about the structure and properties of matter
and the chemical reactions that take place on Earth. In this seminar, students will gain a solid
understanding of the elements that comprise our universe and how those elements interact to
create all of the substances on Earth. Students will use the scientific method to investigate the
properties of matter, and through those investigations, students will develop problem solving
skills that will allow them to become self-directed learners. Using the scientific method, students
will study chemical properties and reactions through a project-based approach to learning. As
students gain a better understanding of the elements on Earth and the interactions that produce all
of the substances on Earth, they will gain an appreciation for natural and man-made substances
that play a major role in the world we live.
●
Biology
11th Grade, 9 credits
This biology course is designed to teach students about the living world through a hands-on
approach to learning. In this seminar, students will study the evolution of species from singlecelled Archeabacteria to human beings. While studying the evolution of life on Earth, students
will use the scientific method to question the world around them and gain a better understanding
of the world in which we live. Students will study living organisms and their interactions with the
environment using a project-based approach to learning. In doing so, students will learn about the
structure of organisms from part to whole; starting with cells and how they form tissues and
moving on to eventually study entire organism. Students will also study the evolution of species
through sexual reproduction as a result of natural selection. As students study structure and
function at the cellular, molecular, and organismal levels, they will participate in a number of
hands-on laboratory investigations. These laboratory activities will include dissections and a
variety of inquiry-based investigations that will teach students to make detailed observations and
relate those observations to prior knowledge in order to make sense of the world around us.
Electives
● Freshmen Seminar
9th Grade, 9 credits
Freshmen Seminar is a mandatory, one-year course for all freshmen enrolled at Propel BHHS.
Students will enhance skills necessary to be successful learners. Expectations for student
professionalism and success are set very high at Propel BHHS. This Freshmen Seminar course is
designed to help transition students from middle school style learning environments into
successful secondary students. Instruction and activities are aimed at enhancing independence,
responsibility, and project-based learning opportunities.
●
Sustained Silent Reading
9th - 12th Grade, 1.5 credits
Sustained Silent Reading (SSR) is a mandatory, year-long course for all students at Propel
Braddock Hills High School. The objective of SSR is to foster a love and appreciation for reading
while enhancing reading skills. During SSR, students will be expected to read, at their leisure, for
the duration of the class period. Students should not have any electronic devices other than
Kindles, Nooks, or other e-Readers, pre-approved by SSR Advisors. Advisors are responsible for
providing reading material when necessary, as well as for ensuring student productivity.
●
American Sign Language I
10th -12th Grade, 6 credits
American Sign Language I is a one-year, elective language course offered to students beginning
their sophomore year. There are no prerequisites for this course. In ASL I, students will learn
basic ASL communication. Course includes: sign vocabulary, fingerspelling, numbers, expressive
and receptive understanding, history of ASL and becoming knowledgeable of aspects of Deaf
culture. This course is designed for the beginner/novice ASL student. All ASL courses rely on a
“voice off” environment while in the class. Meaning, students will be expected to use their newly
acquired knowledge and skills to express themselves the best they can without their voices.
● American Sign Language II
10th – 12th Grade, 6 credits
American Sign Language II is a one-year, elective language course offered to students upon
successful completion and evaluation of American Sign Language I. In ASL II, students will
continue to enhance their skills in ASL communication through sign vocabulary, fingerspelling,
expressive and receptive understanding, basic grammatical structure, and Deaf culture. This
course is designed for the beginner/intermediate ASL student. All ASL courses rely on a “voice
off” environment while in the class. Meaning, students will be expected to use their newly
acquired knowledge and skills to express themselves the best they can without their voices.
Prerequisite: American Sign Language I
● Spanish I
10th - 12th Grade, 6 credits
Spanish I is a one-year, elective language course offered to students beginning their sophomore
year. Spanish I is an introduction to the Spanish language, including speech patterns, grammar,
writing, reading, and Spanish culture.
Prerequisite: none
● CreativeArts
9th - 12th Grade, 3 credits
CreativeArts courses are mandatory, one trimester, elective courses offered to students in all
grades. The CreativeArts program gives students the opportunity to elect classes in the arts that
help them to find their potential, discover new talents and skills, become innovative and creative
thinkers, and find their passion through the arts. Although the courses vary trimester based on
student interest and availability, all courses are taught by professional artists within the Pittsburgh
community.
● Independent Study/Project Time
9th – 12th Grade, 2 credits/trimester
Independent Study (formerly Project Time) is a mandatory, project-focused time every day for
every student. Due to the Project-Based Learning Model of the Propel BHHS curricula, students
are given this time to work closely with Project Managers to complete both assigned and
independently driven academic projects. Independent Study is not a study hall, but rather, an
opportunity to collaborate with peers and utilize resources not necessarily available at home.
It is Propel BHHS’s belief that students learn more when given some autonomy in how and what
they study. As students successfully transition into their senior year, they will earn more
opportunities for independent study in all content areas.
Textbooks and Supplies
Students will be provided textbooks and books in various classes. The book issued to the students is
his/her responsibility. If a book is lost or damaged, it will be the student’s responsibility to pay for a
replacement.
School Culture
Propel Braddock Hills High School teaches students that a successful workforce:
●
●
●
●
●
Believes respect is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Works with a sense of urgency and diligence.
Conducts themselves responsibly and professionally.
Asks thought-provoking questions and actively seek out these answers.
Strives to better themselves and their community.
Student Responsibility
One of our goals at Propel Braddock Hills High School is to prepare young adults who are responsible
and ready to be successful in their journey beyond high school. This begins with personal responsibility.
We believe our young adults are:
● Able to maturely respond to circumstances and situations in their lives in a productive manner
that produces a “win-win” situation for everyone involved.
● Able to communicate their needs to adults and peers in a respectful, non-threatening manner.
● Able to be held to high standards of academic excellence and time management.
● Able to own their behaviors and take responsibility for their actions without blaming others.
● Responsible for their successes, fall-backs, and achievements equally.
● Capable of making positive decisions that impact their communities and families.
Restorative Justice
Restorative justice is a behavior management belief system which educates students in conflict resolution,
building stronger relationships and provides alternative approaches to discipline. Propel BHHS believes
that prescribed consequences for negative actions are not as effective for changing behaviors as
thoroughly planned and student-driven consequence and reward systems. Restorative justice techniques
allow students, families, staff, and administration effected by negative behaviors to have a voice in the
decision making while maintaining the administrative team as the ultimate authority. Within this belief
system, “fair” does not often mean “equal.” Propel BHHS works diligently through various mediation,
counseling, mentoring, and contribution methods to restore justice within our learning community and
foster a culture of “fairness.”
Peer Mediation Program
The Propel BHHS Peer Mediation group, in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh Law School,
facilitates conflict resolution among our students in a safe, respectful, and student-run atmosphere. Welltrained Peer Mediators in 10th - 12th grades, partnered with an adult staff member, lead discussions to
develop a “win-win” resolution for all parties involved. Students involved in the conflict must agree to
the mediation. Regardless of involvement and outcome in the mediation, administration reserves the right
to discipline when deemed appropriate.
Workforce System
The goal of the Propel BHHS Workforce System is to prepare our students for workplace and societal
readiness. Students earn points by exhibiting positive behaviors in the areas of work ethic, demeanor, and
responsibility. The reward system motivates students to strive for above average performance both
socially and academically within our learning community.
School-Wide Common Language
Project-Based Learning: learning by doing, creating, and developing in a multi-step process
Projects: multi-disciplinary, hands-on, practical learning opportunities
Seminars: academic, content specific, class time
2-Column Notes: active reading and note-taking system used across the curriculum
Margin Notes: active reading and note-taking system used across the curriculum
Notebooking: mandatory “PRO-Binder” system which requires students to always carry and utilize a
notebook for all seminars, electives, and independent study opportunities
Advisors: teacher, mentor, liaison between students, families and Propel
Advisory: “home base” where students are assigned to one advisor for performance check-ins and school
culture discussions
Project Managers: Advisors who facilitate the project process, they serve as a liaison between the
content area and the Project-Based Learning Model. They reinforce the skills taught in Seminars through
projects.
Independent Study: formerly “Project Time”— students work with Project Managers on independent
projects, personal learning plan (PLPs), goal setting, etc.
Sustained Silent Reading (SSR): a 20-minute period each day where students will read at their leisure
Electives: non-core, content area class that fulfills graduation credit requirements and many postsecondary admission requirements
Warm-Up: beginning activity which captures student focus for class work
Wrap-Up: closing activity which assesses and reinforces lesson targets
Targets: goals and objectives of a lesson or activity
Service Learning: an extension of education that allows students to reach out and provide services for
the community
PERSONAL ITEMS
Cell Phone/Pager Guidelines
Cell phones/pagers are to be left in the students’ lockers at all times. Cell phones/pagers are not permitted
in any classroom or in common spaces such as hallways, bathrooms, multi-purpose room, entryway, etc.
Any cell phone/pager that is seen and/or heard will be confiscated by the staff member and given to the
principal. We emphasize that parents/guardians should not privately contact or message their children on
their cell phones during school hours. Students discovered using this technology to correspond with
family during the school day will be subject to the same disciplinary procedures. If a student wishes to
make an outgoing call, the nature of the call must be discussed with a staff member and approved.
In an emergency, a parent/guardian may contact the main office to reach their child at 412-271-4929.
Propel Braddock Hills High School is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
VIOLATIONS
Violations to this policy, and all policies, are subject to disciplinary actions at the discretion of staff and
administration. Violations to the electronic device policy may result in, but are not limited to the
following disciplinary actions: temporary confiscation of device, confiscation of device until retrieved by
parent/guardian, loss of workforce points, restorative justice action, etc.
OTHER ELECTRONICS
MP3 Players, iPods, PSPs, headphones and all other electronic devices must be kept in the students’
lockers at all times unless deemed appropriate for academic usage by staff or administrations.
VIOLATIONS
Violations to this policy, and all policies, are subject to disciplinary actions at the discretion of staff and
administration. Violations to the electronic device policy may result in, but are not limited to the
following disciplinary actions: temporary confiscation of device, confiscation of device until retrieved by
parent/guardian, loss of workforce points, restorative justice action, etc.
BAGS
To ensure the safety of the community of Propel Braddock Hills High School personal bags must be
stored in students’ lockers and are not permitted to be carried during the school day.Personal bags are
defined as purses, backpacks, book bags, over-sized bags, tote bags, shoulder bags, traditional and small
purses, or any other bag a student may use to transport school related and personal items from the
student’s home to the school building. Upon arrival to school, students are expected to immediately store
these items in their own lockers.
EXCEPTIONS
Students may carry clear or mesh bags during the school day. Items within a clear or mesh bag must be
easily identifiable and should not be concealed by a smaller opaque bag or case. Bags commonly known
as “wristlets” or bags no larger than 8”x 10” and 2” wide will be permitted in the classrooms. Bags of any
other kind must be kept in the student’s locker at all times and are not permitted into any classroom or
common space during the school day. Backpacks on wheels will not fit into student lockers and are
therefore not permitted. In the event of a medical concern, written consent from both the student’s
physician and parent/guardian is required for consideration by administration.
Personal items may be brought to school in a backpack or bag that can be stored in the student’s locker.
Purses need to be kept in the student’s secured locker throughout the school day. (See “BAG” Policy
above)
All coats, jackets, hoodies, and hats regardless of color and/or Propel affiliation, must be stored in the
students’ lockers. Hats may not be worn in the building at any time and must be removed before entering.
Students are expected to comply with school dress code immediately upon entering the building.
We discourage items unrelated to academic achievement being brought to school. Personal items deemed
unrelated or distracting by staff must be stored in the students’ own lockers for the duration of the school
day.
VIOLATIONS
Violations to this policy, and all policies, are subject to disciplinary actions at the discretion of staff and
administration. Violations of any policy may result in, but are not limited to the following disciplinary
actions: loss of workforce points, restorative justice action, etc.
SOLICITATION AND FUNDRAISING
No solicitation or fundraising is permitted on school property without written approval from the building
administration. Students are not permitted to buy or sell items on school property. This excludes the
purchase of items pre-approved for sale by the school store.
LOCKERS
All students will be assigned a locker. Lockers are the property of Propel Schools. Propel reserves the
right to open lockers at any time without notice. There is no expectation of privacy when using lockers.
Students are required to use a school issued combination lock. A $5.00 deposit is required to obtain the
lock. At the end of the academic year, the student’s account will be credited $5.00 when the lock is
returned and the locker is cleaned. Once a student graduates, the deposit will be returned pending the
locker is cleaned and the lock is returned in good condition. Upon withdrawal from Propel Schools and
return of the lock, the $5.00 deposit will be returned. This credit could also be used to put toward senior
cap/gown/tassle.
Students are responsible for the discretion of lock combinations and all items in their lockers. Students
are strongly discouraged from permitting access and storage to other students. Students are responsible
for any and all items in their lockers. Locks not issued by the school will be removed at the financial
expense of the student.
SCHOOL STORE
Students are permitted to purchase school supplies, uniform items, snacks, and drinks at the school store
during designated hours. Students are responsible for purchasing items - lunch accounts do not cover any
purchases made at the school store.
Students volunteering at the school store are responsible for all cash and products present during their
shift. Any discrepancies with monetary or product inventory will be handled by the school store advisor
and administration.
EMERGENCIES AND FIRE DRILLS
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION
In case of an emergency or serious weather conditions, in which case roadways are impassable, notice of
school closings will be broadcast over television stations starting at 6 a.m. It is the student’s responsibility
to check for school closing notices. Please refer to the school website for updated information.
http://www.propelschools.org/braddockhillshs/
Daily announcements involving student activities are announced at the beginning and end of each school
day. It is the student’s responsibility to acknowledge any changes in activities. Emergency
announcements concerning changes in any planned activities (due to inclement weather or other unusual
circumstances) will be broadcast to students and staff as necessary.
MEDICAL TREATMENT
Parents are asked to complete an emergency care consent form for the student, and are asked to update
this information when necessary. This enables the school to be aware of a student’s allergies or
medications. If a student has a medical emergency at school or at a school-related function, the school
will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
The purpose of evacuation drills is to allow practice in case of an emergency. In the event of an
emergency, students will be expected to exit the building in a quiet and orderly fashion.
Knowing the location of the nearest emergency exit for each of your seminars will enable you, the
student, to make a quick, but safe, exit. Emergency exit directions are posted in each classroom. If you are
unsure of where to go, ask the nearest Advisor.
When exiting the building, students should:
○ WALK. Running may cause injury.
○ Maintain silence. Students may need to hear instructions from Advisors.
○ When making your exit, keep in a single file line unless instructed otherwise.
○ Go directly to where your Advisor’s meeting spot is located, and maintain silence during
roll call.
○ Everyone must be accounted for after leaving the building.
○ Students are to remain with their Advisors and classmates throughout the duration of the
evacuation.
○ Students will be permitted to re-enter the building only after the building is deemed safe,
and a person of authority permits reentry.
TECHNOLOGY
Propel Braddock Hills High School believes that technology is a crucial part of a 21st century education.
Therefore, students are provided a laptop for educational activities. Propel BHHS reserves the right to log
network/Internet use, to restrict access to sites and to monitor all computer usage.
PROHIBITIONS
Students and staff are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal fashion. Specifically, prohibitions
on use of the network shall include, but not be limited to:
● Use of network/Internet to facilitate illegal activity
● Use of text messaging, Facebook, YouTube or any social networking site or non-educational
website
● Use of the network/Internet for non-school related work
● Use of the network/Internet for cyber-bullying, hate mail, discriminatory statements, and
offensive/inflammatory communication
● Use of a proxy to bypass the school’s firewall
● Use of the network/Internet to access obscene or pornographic materials
● Use of the network/Internet to obtain or modify files, passwords and data belonging to other users
● Use of another person’s username or laptop
● Impersonation of another user
● Loading or using games, programs, files or other electronic media not intended for academic use
● Use of the network/Internet to disrupt the work of others
● Destruction, modification or abuse of network/Internet hardware and software
ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE
Students are not allowed to load additional software on their laptop computers.
If a student needs additional or specific software for a school related project, he/she must obtain
permission from the Principal or Technology Director before installing software
SAFETY GUIDELINES:
The Propel Charter Schools network is to be used only in a moral and ethical manner. As a user of the
network, students are expected to abide by the following guidelines:
○ Only licensed software may be used on the network.
○ Games and personal software are not to be installed on the computers. No one shall
execute a software program that has not been installed on the server by the Propel
Technology Department.
○ Intentionally altering the files and/or the hardware on Propel computers or mobile devices
will be viewed as vandalism.
○ Deliberate attempts to spread viruses through the network will be dealt with by the
administration of the school as a violation of the Student Network Acceptable Use Policy.
○ Unauthorized copying of school software will be considered theft.
○ Each student will be provided a username and password to be used by that student to
access the network. This is the only login information that a student should be using.
Students shall not lend their password out to anyone else and should inform a staff
member immediately if they feel their password has been compromised.
○ Users are to log off the system as soon as they are finished to prevent use under the
wrong login information.
○ There will be no distributing of threatening, obscene, or harassing messages over the
network or through the printer.
○ Abusive, obscene, or disrespectful oral or written language or gestures and swearing will
be strictly prohibited in any digital format including, but not limited to, electronic mail.
○ Students may not engage in advertisement of products or services for sale or participate
in “chain letters” or “pyramid schemes”.
○ No confidential information is to be distributed to other parties at any time. This includes
reposting of information sent by another party.
○ Students are not permitted to connect to networks other than those provided by the
school.
○ Students are not permitted to deliberately bypass the Propel Charter Schools Internet
firewall by use of proxy servers or other known methods.
○ The illegal use of copyrighted software is strictly prohibited. Any and all damages which
may occur as a result of unauthorized usage or access will be the responsibility of the
user.
○ The use of the network to access obscene or pornographic material is prohibited and will
be dealt with as a serious breach of school rules.
○ Students will follow the instructional directives of the teacher or staff member in
charge at all times.
VIOLATIONS
Violations to this policy, and all policies, are subject to disciplinary actions at the discretion of staff and
administration. Violations to the technology policy may result in, but are not limited to the following
disciplinary actions: temporary confiscation of device, confiscation of device until retrieved by
parent/guardian, loss of workforce points, restorative justice action, etc.
DRESS CODE GUIDELINES
The Dress Code for all Propel BHHS students is best identified as “business casual.” In preparation for
workforce readiness, students are expected to present themselves as young professionals. Students are
expected to enter the building in the appropriate attire and may not change unless deemed appropriate by
school approved course or activity. Students are allowed to change their footwear at their lockers
immediately upon arrival and only again at dismissal.
This Dress Code applies to haircuts, hair coloring, hair pieces, make-up, jewelry, accessories, visible
tattoos and facial piercings. No graphics may be visible on any article of clothing. The Dress Code
excludes any attire that has any type of exaggerated logos, texts, political statements, or designs. This also
includes pins, buttons, or any other types of clothing or paraphernalia.
This Dress Code applies at all school-related activities and functions, and is expected to remain in place
when students participate in field-based activities, in transit to and from these activities, internships,
college visits, classes outside of Propel at other institutions where the student represents Propel, and
community service learning projects. This Dress Code will only change when students are explicitly
instructed by the staff to dress in a different manner (this includes experiences that require “dress-down
attire” or more formal occasions.)
Note: Because fashions change quickly and unpredictably, Propel Braddock Hills High School cannot list
all acceptable and unacceptable attire. Propel Braddock Hills High School Administration reserves the
right to determine if a student’s attire meets the acceptable Dress Code.
BUSINESS CASUAL ACCEPTABLE CLOTHING
● SHIRTS: Solid color dress shirt with collar, polo style knit shirt with collar, button down oxford
or turtleneck, long or short sleeves are acceptable. Any shirt worn under uniform shirt must be
solid colored with no visible design or pattern. No low cut shirts or revealing shirts. Quartersized emblems are acceptable
● PANTS: Solid colored dress pants (Dockers or Dickies style, for example). Pants must be
uniform style and may not be form- fitting. Cargo style pants and patch pockets, leggings, or
form-fitting pants are not permitted. Pants should be khaki, blue, or black. No denim of any kind
or color.
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SKIRTS OR DRESSES: Must be 2 inches above the knee or longer. Sleeveless dresses must
be worn with a dress code appropriate shirt either buttoned underneath or over top to cover
shoulders. No low cut dresses or revealing dresses. No denim of any kind or color.
●
SHORTS: Shorts may be worn as part of the dress code. Ladies may wear calf-length, dress
capris which follow pant guidelines. No denim of any kind or color.
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JEANS/DENIM: Students will be permitted to wear jeans only on scheduled dress down days.
Jeans are to be clean and free of any holes. Jeans must be worn at the waist. No frayed, cut-off,
skinny, or form-fitting jeans.
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T-SHIRTS: T-shirts of any kind, including Propel logos, may only be worn for special events
when indicated by the staff.
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SWEATERS AND JACKETS: Button down, cardigan style sweaters, blazers, suit jackets and
vests are permitted and must be worn over a Dress Code appropriate shirt. No jerseys of any
kind.
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HOODED SWEATSHIRTS: No hooded clothing may be worn during school. Students must
leave these items in their locker.
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TIGHTS AND SOCKS: Solid colored or business casual patterned, matching knee socks, or
leggings under skirts may be worn. Tights and leggings MAY NOT be worn in place of pants and
can only be worn under dresses or skirts. Brightly colored tights, leggings or socks are not
considered business appropriate.
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SHOES: Solid colored tennis shoes, dress shoes, boots, and heels (no more than 2 inches high)
may be worn. Boots may not be worn above the calf. Open-toed shoes, sandals, flip-flops,
crocs, slippers, may not be worn.
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HATS: No hats, do-rags, head wraps, bandannas, sweatbands or scarves.
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BELTS: Belts are not required but are highly recommended. Belts should be a solid color and
should have a business appropriate belt buckle.
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JEWELRY/ACCESSORIES: Minimal jewelry may be worn if it does not become a distraction
to other students and/or the academic/professional environment.
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MAKE UP: Make up should be worn in a business casual manner. No exaggerated make up or
such that would be a distraction to other students and/or the academic/professional environment.
●
HAIR STYLES AND COLORING: Hair should be combed and neat at all times. Hair styles
and color should not be a distraction to other students and/or the academic/professional
environment.
●
PIERCINGS/TATTOOS: Facial piercings should be kept to a minimum and small in size.
Piercings and tattoos should not be a distraction to other students or the academic/professional
environment. Any tattoo that is considered offensive to others should be concealed at all times.
Administration reserves the right to determine if attire, jewelry, tattoos, hair, and all other elements of
dress are appropriate or inappropriate.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
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Daily uniform checks will be conducted.
Shirts must be buttoned to the second button.
Pants must be worn at the waist.
Sweaters must be worn over uniform shirts.
Clothes must be in good repair, clean and without writing or markings.
No coats, hoods, gloves, earmuffs, sunglasses or jackets may be worn in the classrooms. These
items must be stored in students’ lockers until dismissal.
Attempts to violate the intent and purpose of the school Dress Code will not be permitted.
Administration reserves the right to determine if attire, jewelry, tattoos, hair, and all other elements of
dress are appropriate or inappropriate.
VIOLATIONS
Violations to this policy, and all policies, are subject to disciplinary actions at the discretion of staff and
administration. Examples of possible consequences for violations include but are not limited to:
First Offense: Phone call home; Parents will need to bring appropriate clothing to school. Students will
be marked as unexcused from classes that are missed.
Second Offense: Phone call home; Parents must bring a change of clothes that day for the student.
Student will receive a before/after school detention, Saturday detention, or an in-school suspension.
Students will be marked as unexcused from classes that are missed.
Third Offense: Student will be sent home for the day.
Attendance and Transportation
Immediately upon returning to school after an absence, students are to present an absence form to the
school office containing the dates of absence, the reason for the absence, and a parent/guardian signature.
Absences for reasons of illness, funeral, medical and dental appointments, religious observance or court
appearances will be considered excused.
When a student accumulates three or more days of unexcused absences, a legal written notice will be sent
to the parent/guardian informing them that there has been a violation of the compulsory attendance
provisions of PA School Law. Further violations can result in a citation being filed against the parent
with the district magistrate.
Students with 10 consecutive unexcused absences will be permanently dropped from the school’s roster
and will not be able to return.
Students are limited to no more than 20 absences in a full school year and no more than 10 in a trimester.
Both excused and unexcused absences are applicable to this total. Any absence beyond 20 days must be
accompanied with a medical doctor’s excuse. A student with a chronic health condition and/or other
serious problem may petition for a waiver to the attendance policy.
TARDINESS
Those students who are not in their seats and prepared to learn when the first class begins at 8:15 a.m.
are considered tardy to school.
Students who are tardy to school must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Tardiness for reasons of
illness, funeral, medical and dental appointments, religious observance or court appearances will be
considered excused. All other tardies will be considered unexcused.
Three unexcused tardies will equal one unexcused absence and may lead to possible prosecution before
the magistrate.
EARLY DISMISSALS
Early dismissals may be requested for funerals, doctor appointments, and court appearances. Such
requests must be made no later than 8:30AM the morning of the requested early dismissal. Students are to
present an early dismissal form to the school office listing the date, time and reason for dismissal, and
including a parent/guardian signature. At the time of dismissal, the student will report to the front office
to be signed out of the building. Students will not be permitted to leave for an early dismissal after 3:00
p.m. Students will only be allowed to leave the school after phone verification of the dismissal from a
parent/ guardian on the day of the dismissal.
TRANSPORTATION
Any change in transportation must be made no later than 8:30 a.m. the morning of the request. The
appropriate forms must be submitted to the main office. For example, if a student is not taking the bus
home and is getting picked up by a friend/relative the office must be notified that morning.
As the Principal of Propel Braddock Hills High School, I hope this information is helpful to you. I
can always be reached at school (412-271-4929) x 410 or my administrative assistant at (412-2714929) x 400. I encourage and welcome communication via e-mail joliphant@propelschools.org
or dbullock@propelschools.org.
Sincerely,
Mr. Oliphant
Signature Page
I have read and understand the Code of Conduct and Related Policies:
Parent /Guardian Signature
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Parent/ Guardian Print Name
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Current Grade
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Student Signature
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Student Print Name
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