2014-2015
Montwood High School
Student Handbook
Dear Rams,
We are excited to begin another school year at Montwood High School. This handbook will be
a guide to help you throughout the school year. The information contained here is important
for both you and your parents, so please read it carefully and understand the expectations for
the school year. We are providing you with as much information as possible to help create the
optimum learning environment. Montwood is “Where Excellence Abounds”, so take pride in
your school, its campus life, its buildings and in your own achievements! This will be the year
you shine brighter than ever!
Looking forward to a great RAM year!
Rosa M. Mireles-Menchaca
Montwood High School Principal
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Academic Dishonesty………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
Plagiarism……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
Cheating….………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
Penalties for Plagiarism & Cheating.…………………………………………….......................... 5
Activities and Organizations…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
Assembly Manners and Procedures…………………………………………………………….…………………… 6
Alternative School Settings………………………………………………………………………………………..……. 6
Attendance policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
Excused Absences…………………………………………......................................................... 7
Unexcused absences/truancies……………………………………………………………………………. 7
Bell Schedules.……………………………………………………............................................................... 8-9
Booting and towing…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Breakfast/Lunch Operation……………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
Building Evacuation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
Campus Activities/News…………………………………………………………………………………………………..10
Class/School Activities……………………………………………............................................................ 10
Closed Campus………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 11
College Preparation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Communities in School……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
Counseling…………………………………………………….……............................................................... 11
Credit Averaging……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12
Credit………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 12
Discipline……………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………. 12
Discipline Department…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 13
Dress Code…………………………………………………………................................................................ 13-14
Drug-Free school Notice to students and parents…………………............................................. 14
Early Release/Late Arrival………………………………………………………………………………………………… 15
Electronic Cigaretts…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..14
Emergency Management Plan…………………………………………………………………………………………. 15
Fighting on campus…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15
Fire and Emergency Drills………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
Gang Activity…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….16
Gift Deliveries to Students………………………………………………………………………………………………..16
Grading Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16-17
Grade Report Dates…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18
Harassment…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18
Health Services………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19
Information guidelines for protecting/the privacy of student
Records/background information………………………………………………………………………… 19
Leaving Campus during the Day………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
Library……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19
Limits on Parent Rights……………………………………………........................................................... 20
Personal Telecommunication Devices, Including Mobile Telephones………………………………. 20
Public Display of Affection…………………………………………........................................................ 21
RAMS Student Expectations…………………………………............................................................. 21
2
Student Identification Card…………………………………………....................................................... 21
Student Insurance……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 22
Tardy Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 22
Textbooks…………………………………………………..........................................................................22-23
Tobacco Use……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 23
Time for Dropping Courses or Changing Schedules without Penalty………………………………… 23
Transportation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 24
Vehicles and Parking Functions……………………………………………………………………………………….. 24
Visitors……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 24
Search of Property and Students……………………………………………………………………………………… 25
Closing Note……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 25
3
MONTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
12000 Montwood Drive
El Paso, TX 79936
(915) 937-2400
(915) 937-2661 (fax)
www.sisd.net
ADMINISTRATION
PRINCIPAL
ROSA MARIA MIRELES-MENCHACA
EXTENSION
72410
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
CRISTINA BENNETT
MONICA BUSTILLOS
BRANDON RIOS
ANTOINETTE HOWARD
MARK PARRA
DIANE DUNCAN
DISCIPLINE ASSIGNMENT
72407
A-Colomo
72408
Colorado-Hagemoser
72404
Hale-Molina
72406
Molinar-Rodriguez, E.
72405
Rodriguez, F.- Z
72403
A-Z; Attendance, Truancy, LOC
COUNSELORS
MELISSA DIXON
ELIZABETH FIGUEROA, Head Counselor
AIDEE SANCHEZ
MONICA FLORES
GABRIELA SHIMSHOCK
ANNETTE MONSIVAIS
72448
72444
72446
72445
72449
72443
STUDENT ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR
DANIELA GONZALEZ & LESLIE LOPEZ
72465
ATHLETIC COORDINATOR
CHARLES “CHUCK” VELIZ
72605
NURSE
JUDITH PRIEGO
72425
POLICE SERVICES
Student Resource Officer - Sgt. Vasquez
Student Resource Officer - Officer Perez
ALPHA ASSIGNMENT
A-Castor
Castorena-Garcia, E.
Garcia, F.- Lopez, M.
Lopez, N. – Ortiz, A.
Ortiz, B. - Salcido
Saldaña - Z
CAMPUS SECURITY
Head Security – Omar Enriquez
Security Officer – Michael Hart
Security Officer-Efrain Rubio
MISSION STATEMENT
Montwood High School exists to provide a stimulating learning environment with a technological focus across
the entire curriculum which will maximize individual potential to ensure that students of all ability levels will
be well equipped to meet the challenges of education, work, and life.
4
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty shall constitute a violation of the rules and regulations of this institution,
and is therefore subject to administrative review. This shall include, but not be limited to:
Cheating, Plagiarism, and/or Collusion.
Cheating:
Copying another student’s work whether it is homework, class work or test answers is
unacceptable. This applies if the copying is done with or without the other student’s
knowledge. Cheating also includes the use of “cheat sheets”, electronic messaging and or
hidden answers on clothing, skin, etc.
Collusion
Unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work for the fulfillment of
course requirements.
Plagiarism:
Plagiarism is the use of another person’s work or original idea without giving credit to that
person. Plagiarism is defined as the unauthorized use of another person’s work. Examples of
plagiarism include but are not limited to: a) copying word for word out of a book, magazine,
the Internet, etc. without giving credit to the original source; b) turning in another person’s
work with your name on it; c) paraphrasing too closely which means changing only a few words
in a sentence or paragraph written by someone else; d) having another person do the work for
you.
Consequences for Plagiarism & Cheating:
These consequences apply to all assignments, including research papers. A referral will be sent
to the assistant principal’s office for documentation of each offense. Disciplinary action will
consist of the following:
1. Teacher will contact parent and hold a Level 1 Conference, documented through
Behavior Management Step Form.
2. Student will receive a zero on the assignment/test (It is teacher’s discretion to allow
student to redo an alternate assignment and/or retake the test for credit).
NOTE: Any student who is caught cheating in any way while enrolled in Pre-Advanced
Placement or Advanced Placement classes will be required to meet with the administration and
there continuation in the class will be reviewed.
Activities and Organizations
There are a number of clubs and organizations on the Montwood campus, to include service
clubs, academic organizations, athletics, performing groups, and special interest clubs. New
5
clubs wishing to form must meet certain guidelines set forth by the district and must be
approved by the principal and/or SIT committee. Clubs must have an adult sponsor present at
all meeting or activities. Parents’ organizations must coordinate through a school-designated
sponsor and must adhere to adhere to all the Socorro Independent School District Guidelines
for boosters and volunteer organizations. Student clubs and performing groups such as the
band, choir, cheerleading, and athletic teams may establish rules of conduct and consequences
for misbehavior that are more strict than those for students in general. A violation of these
additional policies and procedures is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified
by the school shall apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization. Each
student member of a group imposing stricter standards shall be notified in writing of the
standards of behavior and of specific consequences of violating the standards.
Assembly Manners and Procedures
Assemblies include pep rallies, paid assemblies, performances by local cultural groups, political
and educational programs, and performances by our musical groups, political and educational
programs, and performances by our musical organizations and performing groups. Students
are expected to behave in a respectful manner and treat the performers with utmost courtesy.
Those students who are not able to behave in the expected manner will be removed from the
performance and banned from assemblies from that point on and no monies will be refunded if
it is a paid event. Students will be disciplined in accordance to the Socorro Independent School
District Code of Conduct. Students are expected to pass quickly to the assembly area, get
seated and remain in that area during the entire assembly. At the completion of the program,
quick orderly departure is expected as students go directly back to their class area. Any student
who is dismissed for an assembly and does not attend that assembly is considered truant.
Booing or other derogatory acts will not be tolerated.
Alternative School Settings
If a student breaks any rule in either the Student Code of Conduct or the MHS Student
Handbook, he/she will face several consequences. These consequences are designed to help
correct the problem(s) that interfere with his/her progress in school. These may include, but
are not limited to:
1. Detention: This may take place before school, after school, during lunch or on Saturday.
2. Community Service: Date, Time, and Place will be assigned by administration
3. Special Assignment Class (SAC):A student may be assigned to the SAC program for repeated
violations of school rules or for a major offense.
4. Suspension: a student may be suspended from school 1-3 days
5. Expulsion: a student may be expelled from school as a result the student may be placed in
the alternative school, KEYS Academy
6. KEYS Academy: KEYS Academy is long-term alternative academic setting on another campus
that allows a student to continue school work while being closely supervised. Placement
will be based on student disciplinary infractions.
6
Attendance Policy
Absences are controlled by state law. Students between the ages of six and 18 must attend
school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program or
tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt.
Students are required by law to complete the school year in which they turn eighteen years of
age. If a student is absent more than three days in a row or more than 10 days in a year, a
doctor’s note from a U.S. Licensed Physician is required upon return to school. Texas State
Attendance Laws require school aged children to attend classes daily and must be in
attendance 90% of the days the classes are offered per semester in order to receive credit.
Under Senate Bill 247, your son/daughter is responsible to the truancy court until the age of 18
if the excessive absences continue.
In order for the absences to be excused, the parent or guardian must call the following
numbers the day of absences to be excused, or a note signed and dated by the parent/legal
guardian must be presented to the attendance office within 48 hours of the absence.
Clerk
Mrs. Castillo
Mrs. Napier
Mrs. Aguilera
Student Alpha
A through F
G through N
O through Z
Phone Number
937-2416
937-2420
937-2418
It is a parent’s responsibility to call in a student absence.
Excused Absences
An excused absence is one resulting from:
1. Personal illness, doctor’s appointment, severe family emergency, death in the
family, weather which makes travel dangerous, SAC, suspension or approved school
sponsored activities.
2. Religious holidays when a parent submits a written request in advance.
3. Other excused absences may be approved by Administration, in advance of the
absence.
Students whose parents have called Montwood High School’s attendance office to report an
absence are to report directly to class upon returning to school.
If a note is brought, the student must get an absence slip from the attendance office before
being admitted to class. Two day for make-up work will be given for each day of an excused
absence.
Unexcused absences/truancies
Each of the following is considered an unexcused absence and will be noted as such:
1. Truancy is defined as student absence from school without permission of parent or
guardian, or the administration/faculty.
7
2. Cutting any class.
3. Absences from school, even if ill, if the parent is not aware of the absence.
4. Leaving campus during the day improperly.
5. Absences due to problems with transportation or babysitting.
Any absence which is not considered an excused absence is an unexcused absence. Make up
work is not allowed for unexcused absences or truancies. Work should be made up but a
“zero” may be given in all classes missed. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken for
unexcused absences. Parents will be contacted by letter, telephone or conference. “A student
with an unexcused absence shall not be given an opportunity to make up missed work and a
zero shall be recorded for assignments and examinations missed.” Policy EIAB (LOCAL)
Montwood High School
Bell Schedules 2014-2015
Regular Bell Schedule
Freshman Lunch
Upperclassmen Lunch
Period
Start
End
Period
Start
End
8:00
8:40
8:00
8:40
TRT
TRT
1
8:45
9:30
1
8:45
9:30
2
9:35
10:20
2
9:35
10:20
3
10:25
11:10
3
10:25
11:10
4
11:15
12:00
4
11:15
12:00
Lunch
12:00
12:40
5
12:05
12:50
5
12:45
1:30
Lunch
12:50
1:30
6
1:35
2:20
6
1:35
2:20
7
2:25
3:10
7
2:25
3:10
8
3:15
4:00
8
3:15
4:00
45 minute classes - 5 minute transition
Teacher Planning and Mandatory Tutorials 8:00-8:40
Pep Rally/Assembly Schedule
Freshman Lunch
Upperclassmen Lunch
Period
Start
End
Period
Start
End
8:00
8:40
8:00
8:40
TRT
TRT
1
8:45
9:24
1
8:45
9:24
8
2
3
4
Lunch
5
6
7
8
Pep Rally
9:28
10:11
10:54
11:33
12:12
12:55
1:38
2:21
10:07
10:50
11:33
12:08
12:51
1:34
2:17
3:00
2
9:28
3
10:11
4
10:54
5
11:37
Lunch
12:16
6
12:55
7
1:38
8
2:21
Pep Rally
39 minute classes, 35 minute lunch, 4 minute transition
Montwood High School
Bell Schedules 2014-2015
10:07
10:50
11:33
12:16
12:51
1:34
2:17
3:00
Early Release Bell Schedule
Period
Start
End
TRT
8:00
8:40
1st or 5th
8:45
9:42
2nd or 6th
9:47
10:35
3rd or 7th
10:40
11:32
4th or 8th
11:37
12:30
52 minute classes - 5 minute transition
Booting and Towing
Vehicles that do not display the Montwood High School parking permit or are illegally parked
will be:
1st violation: Immobilized with a wheel boot. The boot may be removed by paying a
$35.00 fine in the Business Office.
2nd violation: Immobilized with a wheel boot. The boot may be removed by paying a
$35.00 fine in the Business Office.
rd
3 violation: Vehicle will be towed.
Students must park properly and only in areas assigned for student parking. Students are not
allowed to loiter in the parking lots. All traffic laws must be obeyed on and off campus.
Students will be held responsible for any prohibited objects or substances, such as alcohol,
drugs and weapons found in their cars. The courts have held that searches of vehicles, as a
9
general search of school property, may be conducted anytime there is a reasonable cause as
judged by school administration. Security officers will conduct the search with administrator’s
presence, with or without the presence of the student. Violation of vehicle and parking
regulations may result in the car being towed away at the owner’s expense and parking
privileges revoked.
Breakfast/Lunch Operations
Due to safety and cleanliness, students must sit at a table in the commons to eat. They may not
sit on the floor. Students may also choose to eat outside if they wish. Students are not allowed
to loiter or eat in stairwells, hallways, at railings or in classrooms (unless they are attending
tutoring).
Building Evacuation
The evacuation area for Montwood High School will be at the Student Activities Complex.
Campus Activities/News
Campus activities will be posted on the school website and school marquee.
Class/School Activities
The district has disciplinary authority over a student:
a) During the regular school day and while the student is going to and from school on
district transportation;
b) During lunch periods in which a student is allowed to leave campus;
c) While the student is in attendance at any school related activity, regardless of time
or location;
d) For any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location;
e) When retaliation against a school employee or volunteer occurs or is threatened,
regardless of time or location;
f) When criminal mischief is committed on or off school property or at a school-related
event;
g) For certain offenses committed within 300 feet of school property as measured from
any point on the school’s real property boundary line;
h) For certain offenses committed while on school property or while attending a
school-related activity of another district in Texas;
i) When the student commits a felony, as provided by Education Code 37.006 or
37.0081; and
j) When the student is required to register as a sex offender.
10
Closed Campus
All ninth-grade students are required to remain on campus during their lunch period. Any ninth
grade student found off-campus during lunch time will be given Lunch Detention in SAC.
Parents will be notified of the offense.
College Preparation
Students in grades 9-12 and their parents are reminded that the following courses are required
for graduation by the State of Texas and the SISD:
1. English
4 credits
2. Math
4 credits
3. Science
4 credits
4. Social Studies
4 credits
5. Fine Arts
1 credit
6. Foreign Language
2 credits
7. Health
½ credit
8. Speech
½ credit
9. Technology
1 credit
10. Physical Education
1 ½ credits
11. Electives
3 ½ credits
12. Practical Writing
1 credit
Students must also pass all parts of the EXIT Level TAKS and/or EOC test in order to receive a
diploma and to participate in the graduation ceremony.
Communities in School
To help those Montwood students requiring additional community resources stay in school,
successfully learn and prepare for life, CIS is the largest dropout prevention and intervention
program in the nation. For additional information, contact the Program Coordinator at 9372485.
Counseling
Students will be assigned to one of the following counselors:
MELISSA DIXON
ELIZABETH FIGUEROA, Head Counselor
AIDEE SANCHEZ
MONICA FLORES
GABRIELA SHIMSHOCK
ANNETTE MONSIVAIS
72448
72444
72445
72486
72449
72443
11
A-Castor
Castorena-Garcia, E.
Garcia, F.- Lopez, M.
Lopez, N. – Ortiz, A.
Ortiz, B. - Salcido
Saldaña - Z
A full time counseling staff is available for students from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In the majority
of the cases, students should stop by the counseling center on their own time, which is before
school, during lunch time or after school. Students may also sign up for an appointment with
his/her counselor. Students will be called to the counselor’s office at the counselor’s earliest
opportunity.
All students are encouraged to come by the counselors’ office and discuss concerns they might
have. Your counselor is available to help you with course scheduling, study habits, personal and
home concerns, health problems, social questions, career plans and decision making.
Credit Averaging
In accordance with SISD policy (EI Local), if a student fails one semester of a two-semester
course but earns a passing grade in one of the semesters that is high enough that when
averaged with the other semester is a grade of 70 or above, the student shall earn credit for the
course. Credit shall be granted in the following circumstances if the student has met the
compulsory attendance laws:
1. Regular courses may be averaged with Pre-AP/Pre-IB courses.
2. A regular course may be averaged with an AP/IB course if there is a corresponding
course.
3. Courses may be averaged from one year to another year.
4. Regular courses may be averaged with summer school courses.
5. Approved computer-based instruction taken in the District may be averaged with
regular, Pre-AP, Pre-IB, AP, or IB courses.
6. Courses taken in middle school that qualify for high school credit may be credit
averaged.
Credit shall not be granted in the following circumstances:
1. Courses taken in the District may not be averaged with courses taken in other districts.
2. Courses taken in other districts may not be credit averaged by the District.
Credit
Unless credit is awarded by the Attendance Committee, a student shall not be given credit for a
class if the student is not in attendance for 90% of the time that that class is offered. Once a
student has exceeded the number of absences to comply with the 90% rule (which is 6 per
semester), he/she will meet with an administrator and the Attendance Committee. At the time,
a decision will be made regarding tutoring or community service to make up class time.
Discipline
Students, who violate the District’s Student Code of Conduct, shall be subject to disciplinary
action. The district’s disciplinary options include using one of the following discipline
management techniques: detentions, assignment for an alternative education program,
12
removal, and/or expulsion. Disciplinary measures are applied depending on the nature and
severity of the offense. A Code of Conduct clearly outlining each of these plans and the
consequences suffered by students for violations of the disciplinary code has been provided by
the Socorro Independent School District for each secondary student. Students have been
assigned an assistant principal by grade level.
Discipline Department
ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS
CRISTINA BENNETT
MONICA BUSTILLOS
BRANDON RIOS
ANTOINETTE HOWARD
MARK PARRA
DIANE DUNCAN
DISCIPLINE ASSIGNMENT
72407
A-Colomo
72408
Colorado-Hagemoser
72404
Hale-Molina
72406
Molinar-Rodriguez, E.
72405
Rodriguez, F.- Z – Truancy, LOC
72403
A-Z; Attendance
Dress Code
It is the philosophy of the Socorro Independent School District and Montwood High School that
students should maintain high standards of dress, grooming and appearance. When the dress
code is violated, students will be brought to the AP office in order to get a change of clothes.
The personal item that is a dress code violation will be kept in the office until the end of the
day. Once loaner attire has been returned student will receive personal item. Dress code
warning will be issued. Three (3) dress code violations will equal Detention (Morning or Lunch
Detention). In order to enforce the dress code students in violation of the dress code will
receive loaner attire so that instruction is not missed and the student can work toward
completing classroom expectations. The goal is to minimize loss of instructional time. The
option to call parents to bring alternate attire will only be allowed during the student lunch.
A committee of parents, students and teachers formulated the following specific additions to
the Socorro District’s standards of acceptable attire for Montwood High School.
1. IDs must be worn at all times during school hours.
2. Nothing may be worn to school/school activities or be in students’ possession which
represents (a) membership in group or gang affiliation (bandanas, like color clothing,
etc.), (b) satanic depictions, (c) or items profane or sexually inappropriate in content
or intent. In addition, no apparel, jewelry, accessories, or manner of grooming is
permitted which indicates membership in a group that advocates drug use or
exhibits behaviors that interfere with the normal operations of school.
3. Sleeveless blouses are permitted. Racer backs and tank tops will be allowed,
however, MID TORSO CANNOT BE VISIBLE AT ANY TIME.
4. No low cut blouses are permitted.
5. No tube tops, spaghetti straps or strapless attire are allowed. Unless worn with
13
appropriate coverings such as cardigans, jackets, or sweaters at all times.
6. Blouses and dresses worn under sheer coverings must not expose undergarments at
any time.
7. Male students must wear shirts at all times during all school sponsored activities.
Male students ARE allowed to wear tank tops or muscle shirts. Tank top or muscle
shirt worn MUST NOT BE AN UNDERSHIRT and may not expose the chest or
abdominal area.
8. Caps, hats, bandanas, do-rags or scarves will not be worn in the building.
9. Weapon-like accessories (i.e., spiked jewelry, chains, etc.) are not allowed.
10. Footwear must be worn at all times. Enclosed shoes are preferred for the
personal safety of the student. Flip Flops will be allowed and students must wear at
their own risk.
11. No slippers, house shoes or pajamas are allowed.
12. Skirts and shorts must be longer than a hand in vertical position above the
knee. Shorts of other lengths may be worn so long as opaque leggings are also
worn.
13. Spikes and chains as facial piercings are not allowed.
14. Pants must be worn at or above the waist and must stay above the waist
without a belt. All oversized clothing to include “bagging” or “sagging” is not
permitted.
15. Pants or garments with tears are allowed so long as the
tears are not excessive or in the midsection area of the garment.
16. The administration reserves the right to extend the dress code to include attire not
listed specifically above, but which is deemed to be inappropriate. It is imperative
and vital to maintain an environment which provided for the safety and academic
success of all our students.
Drug-Free School Notice To Students and Parents
The Socorro Independent School District has established a code of conduct that prohibits the
use, sale, possession and distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs by students on school premises,
or as part of any school activity, regardless of its location. Compliance with this code is
mandatory and students will be disciplined if they are found to have violated the code of
conduct. This District’s policies and its Discipline Management Plan provided a range of
disciplinary sanctions for alcohol and drug related offenses. Students may be expelled for a full
semester or more. In addition, they will be referred to appropriate law enforcement officials
for criminal prosecution. Depending on the nature and severity of a drug or alcohol related
offense; a student may be required to complete an appropriate rehabilitation program, in lieu
of or in addition to other school discipline. The principal or your counselor can provide you
14
with information about rehabilitation and re-entry programs that are available in our
community or without reasonable access of your community.
Early Release
Only Senior students are eligible. Students must get an early release contract from their
designated counselor and meet all criteria as noted on contract. Students must provide written
documentation when turning in contract request to Ms. Howard, Assistant Principal. The
student will be interviewed and parent contacted prior to final approval.
Electronic Cigarettes & Hookah Pens
All students are prohibited from possessing or using any electronic cigarettes, hookah pens, or
any other paraphernalia of this nature on school premises or while under the school’s
jurisdiction or within the drug free zone. The school district and its designees reserve the right
to confiscate any of these products. Students found to be in violation of this will be issued an
administrative referral.
Emergency Management Plan
The Socorro Independent School District has an Emergency Management Plan in place for all of
the schools. Our campuses run emergency drills on a regular basis. These drills include, but are
not limited to: fire drills; lock downs; shelter in place; school evacuations. Please work with
your children and instruct them to take these drills seriously and to remain calm at all times.
In the case of a real emergency, parents are asked to tune in to local radio stations. Parents are
asked to refrain from calling the campuses. Doing so will only bog down school personnel with
calls and keep them from providing their students with the necessary assistance. Also, please
try to refrain from going to the school to pick up your children unless you are asked to do so by
school officials via a phone call or radio announcement. Having parents report to a campus
when not necessary will also add to existing confusion and will keep school personnel from
focusing their attention on the students.
Fighting On Campus
Students in conflict with another student on or off campus are encouraged to seek mediation
with a school official.
There are no circumstances under which fighting is acceptable on the Montwood High School
campus or at a school sponsored activity. ANY STUDENT who engages in a fight may be
removed for up to three days for safety purposes. Returning to campus will require a parent
conference at which time the student will receive three days of Saturday School and will
participate in a mediation. Students who engage in a fight anywhere on campus or at a school
functions are considered a disruption of school activity by state law and will not be tolerated by
Montwood High School and the Socorro Independent School District. A citation may be issued
15
to all students involved in fights. The fee for the ticket may be as much as $500.00. This will be
decided by the Judge presiding over the case. The student will be charged with disturbing the
peace or disorderly conduct.
Fire and Emergency Drills
Fire escape plans are posted in each room. Once outside proceed to the outside perimeter of
the school When evacuations are necessary, the following signals are used for fire drills:
 Emergency Signal: Leave the Building in accordance to fire escape route posted
in classroom.
 One bell and Announcement will indicate return to building.
Gang Activity
Absolutely no semblance of gang-related activity will be tolerated on the Montwood campus or
at school-sponsored events, on or off campus. Violation of any of the following policies may
result in expulsion, assignment to an alternative educational setting, or placement in the special
assignment classroom:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Gang-related clothing or paraphernalia of any type is expressly forbidden.
Solicitation of gang membership is prohibited.
Extortion is an expellable offense.
Any activity which is determined to be gang-related by the administration or local
law enforcement agencies will be dealt with severely.
Gift Deliveries to Students
No gift deliveries will be accepted for students. Big balloon bouquets, stuffed animals, flowers,
etc. that are brought on campus by students will be confiscated and placed in the front office
until the end of the school day.
Grading Policy
Grades for each reporting period shall be determined by a combination of daily grades, major
exams and/or projects and/or other performance activities relating to TEKS. Guidelines for
grading shall be clearly communicated to students and parents at the beginning of the
academic year. The policy will adhere to the following guidelines for grades 6-12:
GRADING PLAN – (To include Pre AP/AP Classes)
Grades for each reporting period will adhere to the following guidelines:
Daily grades (15 grades minimum)
grade
Major Grades (unit tests, common assessments and projects)
grade
Nine weeks test – (Comprehensive and shall include a campus
16
50% of nine weeks
30%of nine weeks
And/or grade level benchmark/common assessment)
grade
All three categories must add up to:
20% of nine weeks
100%
A major exam to include a campus and or grade level benchmark/common assessment shall be
administered at the end of each grading period in each core subject area.
A written copy of the grading policy will be posted on the Montwood High School website.
 The teacher will assign a grade that reflects the student’s relative mastery of an
assignment.
 A student will not be exempt from taking a major exam in any subject in which
any other student is required to take an exam.
 A student must be enrolled at least 25 school days of the grading period in order
to be eligible for a grade.
 “A student in any grade level from kindergarten through grade 12 may not be
given credit or a final grade for a class unless the student is in attendance for at
least 90 percent of the days the class is offered.” (Texas Education Code
Section 25.092 Minimum Attendance for Class Credit of Final Grade)
 Student grades will be based only on mastery of TEKS. Student grades shall not
be penalized for unsatisfactory conduct. Such matters must be addressed
through the conduct grade only.
 It shall be the student’s responsibility to seek the opportunity to redo an
assignment or test for which he/she received a failing grade within five school
days upon which he/she received notification of a failing grade.
 The grade earned when redoing an assignment or test shall be averaged with the
grade earned on the first attempt, and the averaged grade shall replace the
failing grade.
 Students shall be given one opportunity to redo a failed assignment or test.
Students will have one day for each day excused absence to make up work missed.
Parents are to be informed as soon as evidence exists that a student is not making sufficient
progress for promotion to the next grade. They are to be given every opportunity to assist the
school in a timely manner to ensure the student’s successful completion of the assigned grade.
Excused and unexcused absences shall be recorded on the report card.
Student grades will be based only on academic factors to include the Texas Essential Knowledge
and Skills (TEKS) and other curriculum factors. Non-instructional factors cannot be used to
17
determine a student’s grade. Non-instructional factors include, but are not limited to,
misbehavior and failure to participate in fundraising activities.
Grades shall not be reduced for non-instructional reasons except in the case of academic
dishonesty or late assignments. Academic assignments are not to be used as discipline
measures.
Socorro Independent School District
Administrative Services
2014-15 Grade Reports
YRE
Calendar
End of 3 Weeks
Snapshot
Progress
Reports
End of 9
Weeks
1st 9 weeks
Aug 15/Sept 5
by 4pm
Oct 31/Nov 21
by 4pm
Jan 26/Feb 13
by 4pm
April 10/May 1
by 4pm
Aug 20/Sept 10
September 26
Report Card
Distribution
Week
October 20
Nov 5/Dec 3
December 19
January 12
Jan 28/Feb 18
March 6
March 30
April 15/ May 6
May 29
*May 29
**June 1
***June 1
2nd 9 weeks
3rd 9 weeks
4th 9 weeks
*Elementary School report cards will be sent home with the students on the last day of school (i.e. May
29th).
**Middle School & High School report cards will be distributed via mail the week of June 1st5th.
*** Seniors must be in attendance every day through Friday, May 30, 2015. During the last week (May
25th – May 29th) attendance must be taken every day for seniors at 10:00am.
Harassment
a) Basis of Race, Color, Religion, National Origin, Gender, or Disability Students must
not engage in harassment behaviors motivated by race, color, religion, national
origin, or disability directed toward another student. Students are expected to treat
other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any
behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to
stop.
b) Sexual Harassment/Sexual Abuse
Students must not engage in unwanted and unwelcome verbal or physical conduct
18
of a sexual nature directed toward another student or a district employee. This
prohibition applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any other sexual
conduct, including requests for sexual favors. Students are expected to treat other
students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid behaviors
known or perceived to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told
to stop. Students must not engage in harassing behavior motivated by another’s
sexual orientation.
c) Harassment means threatening to cause harm or bodily injury to another student,
engaging in sexually intimidating conduct, causing physical damage to the property
of another student, subjecting another student to physical confinement or restraint,
or maliciously taking any action that substantially harms another student’s physical
or emotional health or safety.
Health Services
Nursing services are provided for the care of all students. If a student becomes ill during class,
the teacher will send the student to the nurse’s office with an appropriate pass. All prescription
medication must be administered by the school nurse.
Information guidelines for protecting the privacy of student records/background information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, also known as the Buckley
Amendment, helps protect the privacy of student records. This Act provides for the right to
inspect and review education records. The Act applies to all institutions that are the recipients
of federal funding. FERPA’s legal stature citation can be found in the U.S. Code (20 USC 1232g),
which incorporates all amendments to FERPA. FERPA regulations are found in the Federal
Register (34 CFR Part 99). FERPA’s 1994 amendments are found in Public Law (P.L.) 103-382.
FERPA applies to public schools and stare or local education agencies that receive Federal
education funds, and it protects both paper and computerized records. In addition to the
Federal laws that restrict disclosures and information from student records, most states also
have privacy protection laws that reinforce FERPA. State laws can supplement FERPA, but
compliance with FERPA is mandatory if schools are to maintain their eligibility to receive
Federal education funds.
Leaving Campus During the Day
All students should be checked out with the attendance office by a parent or legal guardian
before leaving campus for any reason. Leaving school without proper permission is considered
an unexcused absence or truancy. Programs which require students to leave campus, such as
Work Based Learning (Co-Op, Work Study, etc.) are not included.
Library
Library hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Food and drinks are not allowed in the library. A
student is required to have a student ID and a teacher pass in order to visit the library during
19
class hours. In order to check out library resources, the student’s school picture ID is required,
and the student should not have any library fines or overdue materials. The loan period for
various items is as follows: fiction and nonfiction books two weeks, audio books one week,
magazines overnight, and reference books overnight, unless labeled “For Library Use Only.”
Computers are available to students during library hours for research and other educational
purposes. A student ID is required for computer usage unless the student is visiting the library
with his/her scheduled class. All terms and policies detailed in the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
regarding computer access are enforced.
Limits on Parental Rights
1. No state or federal law requires parental consent before administering discipline that
complies with the SISD Student Code of Conduct.
2. No state or federal law requires notice of a teacher’s or administrator’s conference with
a student.
3. State law rests in the District-not in the parents-the authority to determine the
appropriate consequences of student behavior.
4. There is no legal “right” on the part of a parent to be present when children are in
conversation with or being questioned by school officials concerning school related
behaviors or concerns.
5. State law that applies to law enforcement officers in interrogating juveniles (or
criminals) does not apply to public schools in their disciplinary enforcement. Federal
“Miranda Warnings” do not apply to school disciplinary proceedings.
6. Administration is allowed to do searches based on reasonable suspicion not probable
cause.
Personal Telecommunication Devices, Including Mobile Telephones
For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess personal mobile telephones;
however, these devices must remain turned off during the instructional day, especially during
all testing, unless they are being used for approved instructional purposes. Campus
administration may allow other telecommunication devices on school property, for use before
school, lunchtime, and/or after school provided the devices are turned off during the
instructional day and do not disrupt any school-sponsored activity.
These electronic devices may not be used to invade personal privacy or engage in any illegal
activity. The use of mobile telephones or any device capable of capturing images is strictly
prohibited in locker rooms or restroom areas while at school or at a school-related or schoolsponsored event.
Students who violate this policy shall be subject to established disciplinary measures. District
employees shall confiscate any electronic devices found on school property or found at school20
sponsored or school-related activities on or off school property not being used in compliance
with the Student Code of Conduct.
If a student uses a telecommunications device without authorization during the school day, the
device will be confiscated. Parents shall be notified within two school days after the
telecommunications device is confiscated. The first time that a telecommunications device is
confiscated from a student, it will be returned to the student’s parent, no earlier than Friday
at 4:00 PM. In the event that the device is picked up on a Friday, the phone will not be
released until the following Friday. The offense will be addressed administratively. On the
second or subsequent time that a student has a telecommunications device confiscated,
parents or telecommunications companies may obtain the release of the telecommunications
device for a fee of $15 and the parent may pick up the device on Friday at 4:00 PM. These
offenses will also be addressed administratively.
Confiscated telecommunications devices shall be held by the district /campus administration
for a period of 30 days after notification has been made. After the 30-day period has expired,
the district shall dispose of the telecommunications device.
Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district and
the school will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunications/electronic
devices. Any incident of a loss or stolen electronic device will not investigated. Students are
encouraged to file a report with the Socorro Independent School District Police Services
Department.
Public Display of Affection
Public Display of Affection will not be tolerated at any time on campus. School Administration
reserves the right to discipline students for public displays of affection.
RAMS Student Responsibilities
Respect your peers, teachers/staff, and yourself.
Attend school daily, be on time to class, and have your school ID at all times.
Master your school curriculum and apply yourself in all classes.
Set High Expectations so you will be proud of who you are.
Student Identification Card
In an attempt to address safety student ID cards must be worn at all times during school hours.
No exceptions! The first ID card will be provided during registration for free to all students.
However, there will be a $5.00 replacement fee if the card is lost or damaged. Students who
lose their ID will purchase their School Identification Card at the School Business Office and
proceed to room A227 to get Student ID during student lunch.
21
Student Insurance
The school does not carry insurance on students. However, parents may buy accident
insurance for their children through the athletic department. Information will be sent home at
the beginning of the school year.
Tardy Policy
When arriving tardy, students will report directly to their class where the Teacher will
document student tardy through the Tyler Student Information System.
Note: Lockouts will be conducted randomly 3 to 5 times a week and will be tracked using the
Plasco System. Students caught in a lockout will follow the lockout matrix above.
Textbooks
1. Each teacher will have a classroom set of textbooks to use as needed throughout class
time instruction.
2. Textbooks will be available for check-out to students
a. Copies of each current in adoption textbook will be part of the library inventory
and readily available for check-out.
b. Bookroom Schedule will be posted so that students can check out books from
the Campus Bookroom for a period of 1 to 10 school days. Students will only be
issued textbooks based on student need(s).
c. A list of current adoption textbooks that are available to teachers and students
online will be posted on school website.
Senate Bill 6 allows accessibility of instructional materials for student use during the
instructional day. Additionally, the student’s home campus may allow the student to take home
any instructional materials used by the student. Subject to the availability of the instructional
materials, the district or school shall honor the request. A student who takes home
instructional materials must return the instructional materials to school at the beginning of the
next school day if requested to do so by the student’s teacher.
Through the Textbook Inventory Program (TIP) a barcode is generated with an accession
number and placed on the inside of the back cover. This number is kept on the school's
computer system, TIPWeb, as the master record. The barcode number should be recorded by
the parent to assist in identifying any textbook misplaced by the student. All textbooks are to
be covered by the student and are to be kept covered while in the student's possession. Covers
will be removed when books are returned to the designated person at each campus. Marking or
writing in textbooks or otherwise damaging or mutilating them is forbidden. Students will be
22
penalized and fined for such abuse. A student who damages a textbook so that it can no longer
be used shall be charged the full price of the textbook. Any student failing to return a book
issued by the school loses the right to free textbooks until the book is returned or paid for by
the parent; however, the student will be provided textbooks for use at school during the school
day. These rules do not apply to those books issued as expendable/consumable.
Due to the increased use of innovative technologies, rigorous standards-based instruction,
scientifically based instructional programs and research-based teaching and learning strategies,
the need for every student to be issued a physical textbook is no longer a necessity. Student
classrooms will be equipped with class sets of textbooks and other instructional materials that
will be available for use when necessary. Additionally, campus libraries and bookrooms will
have student copies of textbooks available to check out in accordance with Senate Bill 6.
School Property
Students shall not vandalize, damage, or deface any property, including furniture and other
equipment, belonging to, or used by the district Students and parents or guardians of students
guilty of damaging school property shall be liable for damages in accordance with the law.
Should a student need to check out any instructional materials that are available for check out
(i.e., textbooks), the student, or the student's parent or guardian is responsible for the
materials not returned by the student. A student who fails to return all textbooks forfeits the
right to check out additional textbooks and/or other instructional materials available for check
out until each textbook previously issued but not returned is paid for or returned by the
student, parent, or guardian. As provided by Policy FP (LOCAL) of the Board of Trustees, the
district may waive or reduce the payment requirement if the student is from a low-income
family. The school shall allow the student to use textbooks at school during each school day. If a
textbook is not returned or paid for, the school may withhold the student’s records. A school
may not prevent a student from graduating, participating in a graduation ceremony, or
receiving a diploma. (TEC 31.104 (d))
Tobacco Use
All students are prohibited from possessing or using tobacco products (including, but not
limited to: cigarettes, cigars, pipes, snuff, chewing tobacco, on school premises or while under
the school’s jurisdiction or within the drug free zone. The school district reserves the right to
confiscate all tobacco products. Students found to be in violation of the Texas law that
prohibits underage possession of tobacco will be issued a citation for the violation and/or
administrative referral.
Time for Dropping Courses or Changing Schedules without Penalty
Students may drop a course or make a schedule change with no consequences only during the
first four days of the semester. Requests for course changes must be submitted in writing to the
counselor.
23
An administrator, counselor, or teacher shall inform students of deadlines and requirements for
dropping courses or changing schedules as well as the ramifications of such a decision. Drops or
changes occurring during the semester’s four day grace period will not be shown on the
student’s record.
Transportation
All students who reside two or more miles from school qualify for bus transportation. Students
are expected to show identification cards prior to boarding the bus. Riding the school bus is a
privilege. Improper conduct on the buses will result in the privilege being denied, and
discipline problems will be referred to the appropriate assistant principal. In-District Transfer
students must provide themselves with their own transportation since it was explained when
they signed the application. Education Code Section 4.34- Disruption of Transportation states
that any person, who intentionally disrupts, prevents or interferes with the lawful
transportation of children to and from school activities sponsored by a school on a vehicle
owned and/or operated by a country or independent school district; shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $500.00.
Vehicles and Parking Functions
All vehicles on campus must have a Montwood High School parking permit. The EASTSIDE
parking lot is assigned for student usage. All other parking areas are for Administration, Staff,
Teachers and Visitors. These permits will be available from the Security Department for a
$10.00 fee which must be paid in the Business Office. Juniors who pass all sections of the
STARR EOC test are exempt from the parking fee during their senior year. In order to obtain a
parking permit, a student must:
1. Have a valid TEXAS operator’s license.
2. The vehicle must be registered in Texas to the student or a member of the family.
3. The vehicle must be insured in accordance with the state law.
4. The student must be listed on the proof of insurance.
Montwood High School and the Socorro Independent School District are not responsible for
losses incurred from vandalism, theft, fire or natural disasters.
Visitors
A visitor is defined as one who is not a member of the student body of Montwood High School,
nor a faculty or staff member of Montwood High School. No student guests are allowed.
Students are not to bring their children, siblings or friends to school with them during school
hours. All visitors to Montwood High School must present a photo ID, such as a valid driver's
license, official state photo ID from any state and most countries, or a military ID, and check in
24
through the reception desk and pick-up a visitor’s badge. After official business is completed,
the visitor must return the visitor badge to the reception area.
Search of Property and Students
Students are entitled to the guarantees of the Fourth Amendment, and they are subject to
searches and seizures based on reasonable suspicion. Students have the responsibility not to
carry on their own person or to have on school property or at a school-sponsored events such
as drugs, weapons, alcohol, or other electronic communication devices and/or other
contraband materials in violation of school policy or state law.
School officials are empowered to conduct searches of students and school property when
there is reasonable suspicion to believe that students may be in possession of drugs, weapons,
alcohol, and other materials (“contraband”) in violation of school policy and state law.
Students who bring contraband onto school grounds may be searched in order to secure the
school environment so learning can take place and to protect other students from any
potentially harmful effects stemming from the contraband. School property such as lockers and
desks shall remain under the control of school officials, and shall be subjects to search.
Students do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in the use of school lockers or school
desks. The administration may utilize dogs and metal detectors as provided by district policies
and applicable laws. Metal detectors and trained dogs may be used at random locations and
times by the district personnel as determined by school administrators and law enforcement
personnel.
Closing Note:
In no way are we able to address each and every issue that we may be confronted with
throughout the school year. Administration reserves the right to handle each situation as
presented in relationship to the impact it may have on the general operation of the school
environment.
Should you have any questions regarding the student handbook please feel free to see any
campus administrator.
25