Ledford Senior High School
DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE
Principal……………………………………….Mr. Jonathan Brown
Assistant Principal…………………………... .Mrs. Melissa Glover
Assistant Principal…………………………… Dr. Dale Richardson
Attendance/Waivers……………………………….Student Services
Athletics………………………………………… Mr. Donald Palmer
Band…………………………………………………….. Greg Gibson
Bus Transportation…………………………... Dr. Dale Richardson
Cafeteria……………………………………… ...Mrs. Dawn Hullette
Change of Address……………………………………... Darrie Shoaf
Club Information……………………………... Mrs. Melissa Glover
Colleges/Transcripts/Advising . . . . . . . . ……….Student Services
Detention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …………... Dr. Dale Richardson
Driver’s Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …………... . . . .Mr. Joe Davis
Driving Eligibility Hardships . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Jonathan Brown
Exceptional Children . . . . . . ………… . . . . . . . .Ms. Cheryl Tucker
Lockers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . …………... . . . . Dr. Dale Richardson
Lost and Found ………... . . . . . . . . . . . …………………….. /TOR
Media Center ………….. . . . . . . . . . …. . . . . . . ……… Debbie Pope
NCWise Data Manager……………………… .…Mrs. Darrie Shoaf
Parking……………………………………………………..Treasurer
Prom………………………………………………..Mrs. Nikki Nifong
Tuesday/Thursday Learning Center… .……… Mrs. Brooke Oast
Senior Information………………………………. Mrs. Debbie Pope
Schedule Changes………………………………Mrs. Melissa Glover
School Fees/Waivers……………………………………... Treasurer
Scholarships/Financial Aid……………………… Student Services
Tardy Information……………………………………… Main Office
Theatre Arts…………………………………………….. Mr. Bob Dye
Vocational Information……………………………. Mrs. Lynn Scott
Yearbook……………………………………………Mr. James Riddle
I.
General Information: Alphabetical by Subject:
ARRIVALS
Students are reminded that once they arrive on school property they are not
allowed to leave without signing out in the front office. If a student leaves campus
without signing out, the consequence for skipping will be enforced. Likewise, if a
student enables another student to leave campus without permission by providing
transportation, the consequence for skipping will also be enforced. (See offenses for
skipping school for further details.)
ATHLETICS/EXTRACURRICULARS
Ledford High School takes great pride in our rich athletic history. We are
members of the Mid-Piedmont 3A Conference. Students are encouraged to
participate and learn the value of teamwork and a personal commitment to their
teammates, school, and community.
A student must have passed and received credit for a minimum load of work (3
out of 4 courses) during the preceding semester to be eligible at
any time during the current semester. In addition, students must meet local
promotion standards set by the Davidson County Board of Education and meet
promotion standards set by the NCHSAA.
A student who is not academically eligible at the beginning of the semester is not
eligible at any time during the semester. Ledford Senior High recognizes the fact that
students are here for an education primarily and athletics must take a secondary
purpose in the high school experience.
Athletes are expected to be representatives of the school and community and,
therefore, must show a high level of pride and class throughout the school year.
Sports available to the students are:
Men: cross county, golf, swimming, soccer, tennis, wrestling, football, track,
basketball, baseball
Women: basketball, tennis, cross county, golf, soccer, track, volleyball, softball,
swimming.
Announcements will be made over the public address system concerning try-outs
for these teams. In addition, some sports have Junior Varsity teams
for underclassmen. Eligibility rules for these activities are determined by the North
Carolina High School Athletic Association.
Band
Ledford Senior has an outstanding band. Information concerning this program is
given to students during spring registration. Each program has several weekend
activities in which student participation is required. Band Fee - $12.00
Cheerleading
Ledford Senior has two cheerleading squads: Varsity and Junior Varsity.
Participation is open on a try-out basis. Try-outs are held once a year and are
announced over the P.A. system. Eligibility requirements are explained at try-outs.
Clubs/Organizations
There are many clubs for Ledford Senior High School students. Most of the clubs
are open on an interest basis, and clubs meet on Fridays during our Panther Pause
time. Some clubs will schedule additional meetings after school. Early in the school
year students will be introduced to the clubs and organizations offered.
BUSES
Students must understand that good behavior while on the bus is of the greatest
importance and that when a student misbehaves, he/she is putting the lives of other
students in danger. Bus misconduct will be handled seriously. No inappropriate
behavior will be considered trivial if it distracts the driver and jeopardizes the
safety of others. Students and parents are informed that riding the bus is a privilege
that may be taken away for serious or continuous misbehavior. Listed below are the
responsibilities of bus riders:
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NEW for High Schoolers: Due to overcrowded conditions on the bus, we
will no longer be able to approve additional riders who may be going
home with someone assigned to a particular bus. Please make your
afterschool arrangements to be picked up by car or arrange to meet later.
Emergency situations will be dealt with on an individual basis.
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Be ready for the school bus each morning. The bus driver will NOT sound
the horn at the stop.
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Students must load and unload at the same stop in the morning and
afternoon. Prior authorization must be obtained from the administration to
disembark at another stop.
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Stand away from the road in an orderly manner while waiting for the bus.
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Wait for the bus to stop and watch for traffic before crossing the road.
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Always cross the road in front of the bus when loading and unloading.
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Never stop to pick anything up in front of the bus.
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Load and unload the bus in an orderly manner and in single file.
 Never touch the mechanical controls, sit in the driver’s seat, or touch the
door control at any time. Violation: automatic bus suspension for student;
loss of license for driver if not immediately reported.
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At all times until the bus reaches your exit stop remain seated.
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Students will be held liable for damages to the seat.
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Obey all safety rules and do your part to help the driver provide safe
transportation.
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Use the back door in an emergency only, as directed by the driver.
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Students are assigned to specific buses based on routes. Students are not
allowed to switch buses.
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Students should talk quietly; never in a loud abusive, vulgar, or boisterous
manner.
All hands, arms, heads, etc, are to be kept inside open windows.
No one is to throw objects in the bus, out the windows, or onto another bus.
No one is to fight, use force, intimidate, or threaten (verbal or written)
another student or driver.
Use of tobacco products on the bus is prohibited.
No food, drinks, candy, or chewing gum are allowed on the bus.
School dress code applies.
No one is to stand on the bus, beside the driver, or in the stairwell while the
bus is moving. Violation: automatic bus suspension for student; loss of
license for driver if not immediately reported.
No objects which would be distracting to the driver’s view (balloons, flags,
etc.) are allowed.
No glass or sharp objects of potential danger are allowed on the bus.
Bus Discipline Policy
1. 1st Offense—Conference with administration and warning.
(This step may be waived for more serious offenses).
2. 2nd Offense—Bus suspension
for up to 3 days
3. 3rd Offense—Bus suspension
for up to 5 days
4. 4th Offense—Bus suspension for up to 10 days; riding privileges may be denied
for the rest of the school year.
*Other types of correction may be used, including but not exclusive to, suspension
from school, time out, and after-school detention.
Buses are provided for student use. Safety of our students is our first priority.
Students who prove to be a distraction/danger to fellow students or the driver will
lose this privilege. Each student will be assigned a particular bus/route/stop. Due to
overcrowding of buses we are unable to accommodate requests to ride alternate
buses for overnight stays with other students or for afterschool visits. All school
rules apply at the bus stop and on the bus.
In the case of a bus break down, students should remain seated and follow the
instructions of the driver. Students are NOT allowed to call for someone to pick
them up unless authorized by a school administrator.
CAFETERIA
Students are issued lunch numbers by their homeroom teacher. Students
are expected to stay in line and order lunch quickly. Breaking in line will result in
detention. Please work politely with the cafeteria staff and keep the cafeteria clean by
disposing of all trash in the proper location. Food and drinks from the serving lines
may not be taken into the commons area and all items must be put away before
exiting the cafeteria.
Students have the choice of going to the commons area during lunch but must
leave trays in the dining room, but must not go down any of the academic hallways
or exit the building without permission. Theft on the service line will not be tolerated
and could result in suspension.
Students are not allowed to leave school for lunch, nor should they have food
delivered to the school by friends or family. No visitors will be allowed during
lunches Cafeteria Phone: 769-9378
COMPUTER LABS
It is expected that your workstation be left in a neat, clean manner. Chat rooms,
games, and e-mails are not allowed for use on these computers. This includes
pranks, viewing inappropriate websites, changing configurations, and accessing
folders in the system. Students are not to download anything without permission.
All printing in the lab needs to be approved prior to printing to prevent excessive,
useless pages from printing. All students must complete an Internet Permission
form before they will be allowed to use the Internet. NO FOOD/DRINKS ARE
ALLOWED IN THE LAB.
Misuse of Computers
All students need to work together to ensure that computer resources remain
available to all students.
Inappropriate use of computers will result in the following consequences: Detention
and/or removal of technology privileges except when required by curriculum.
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First Offense – 1 hour detention
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Second Offense – 2 hours detention
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Third Offense – 3 hours detention
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Fourth Offense – 1 day suspension
Depending upon the severity of offense, administrators may upgrade sequence of
consequences. Students caught misusing the computers in the labs will be banned
from computer use in the labs until further notice.
TARDIES/ DEPARTURES
Students are expected to leave the school building and/or parking lot by 3:20
each day, unless under the direct supervision of a faculty member. This includes
leaving for prearranged reasons, which involves a note from parents including the
name of the doctor (when applicable), the time of dismissal, the reason for dismissal,
Students are in
violation of the system’s policy regarding cell phone use if
texting or sending messages to outside individuals in attempts
to circumvent check out system. Procedure for leaving school during
and a number at which a parent can be contacted if needed.
school hours: You must check by the office and sign out. In no case will anyone be
allowed to leave school without a note signed by the Principal or the Assistant
Principal or a phone call to the parents or relatives. As indicated, leaving the school
without proper permission will result in disciplinary action. The first offense can
result in the student being suspended.
Administration has the right to require doctor notes from a student as a result of
excessive tardiness or abuse of arrival and departure procedures. These notes need to
be pre-approved in the office prior to first period.
If a pattern/abuse of early dismissal develops, time missed will be counted as
unexcused, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action in regards to the
tardy policy. Leaving school to get forgotten books or medication will not be
excused. Students must be in class for two-thirds (2/3) (or 1 hour) of instructional
time in order to be counted present for that class.
TARDIES – Late to School/Class
Being prompt is important not only in school or class, but in life as well. In order
to do your best, it is important for you to be there on time and prepared for the class.
Each student is allowed one (1) tardy per term, (two (2) for the year) for emergencies.
All tardies for the quarter will be cumulative. All tardies receive the same
progression of consequences. Tardies will impact exam exemptions.
In all cases, a tardy student must come to the office for a class admittance note.
The following policy will be enforced:
1. One (1) tardy in a nine-week period – one hour after-school detention
2. Two (2) tardies in a nine-week period – one hour after-school detention
3. Three (3) tardies in a nine-week period – two (2) hours after-school detention.
4. Four (4) tardies in a nine-week period – two (2) hours after-school detention.
5. Five (5) tardies in a nine-week period will be considered excessive; one (1)
day In-school suspension.
6. Six (6) and above may be out-of-school suspension..
Students arriving late must sign in with the office even if they arrive during break
or lunch. Students who are tardy to class will be documented by the individual
classroom teacher and the tardy added to the cumulative total of the quarter.
DRIVING/PARKING
Driving Eligibility Certificate
A student will need to have a Driving Eligibility Certificate in order to receive a
North Carolina driver’s permit or license. The Division of Motor Vehicles will not
issue a driver’s permit or license without a Driving Eligibility Certificate. This
certificate will be made available only to students who maintain adequate progress in
the classroom.
Adequate academic progress will be evaluated during or at the end of each
semester. A student must pass 70% of his or her coursework (3 out of 4 courses in
high school) each semester in order to be eligible to receive a Driving Eligibility
Certificate. Students who do not meet these criteria will not be eligible to receive a
Driving Eligibility Certificate. Students under the age of 18 who have already been
issued a permit/license but do not meet the adequate progress standard will be
reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles and their permits/licenses will be
revoked.
PARKING
Parking on the school campus is a privilege and can be revoked by
administration if it is being abused.
Only juniors and seniors will be allowed to park on campus. You must register
your car with the office and purchase a parking permit by ordering on the school fee
sheet at the cost of $35.00. Parking permits will not be issued until school fees are
paid and must be purchased by September 12. Treasurer will collect parking fees at
the same time general fees are collected .
The permit should hang on the rearview mirror of your vehicle when
parking on campus. Parking permits are not transferable from one student to
another. If this happens, the permit will be revoked for the student for whom it is
issued. It is wise to lock your car.
The speed limit on campus is 5 MPH with safe driving habits required.
Follow the established traffic patterns in the parking lot. Students are expected to
vacate their vehicles and enter the school building immediately upon arrival to
campus. Loitering in the parking lot before or after school is prohibited.
Once on school grounds, students are not allowed to leave school without gaining
parental permission and signing out in the office.
Parking ticket offenses will be issued for the following infractions:
(1)Parking in restricted areas.
(2) No LHS parking permit displayed.
(3) Parking in more than 1 space
(4) Not parking in designated areas
Consequences for infractions:
1st offense: $5.00 fine
2nd offense: $5.00 fine; parent contact.
3rd offense: Suspended driving privileges for one week (5 days)
4th or more offense: driving privileges suspended or revoked.
Continuing to drive with privileges revoked will be considered non-compliance
with school procedures and lead to out-of school suspension.
Students have 5 days to pay parking fines. Failure to do so will result in revocation
of driving privileges.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Each classroom contains an emergency evacuation plan that is posted for the area
where students should re-locate. Please follow the instructions of your teacher in
case of an emergency.
FLOWERS/DELIVERIES
Ledford Senior High School does
not accept flower, gift, or balloon deliveries.
FUNDRAISING
Students are not allowed to sell or buy tickets or articles of any kind, other than
those associated with school-sponsored organizations. All fundraising efforts should
be authorized by school administration.
HALL PASSES
Students are to remain in class unless an emergency arises. In order to leave class,
students must obtain permission from their teacher and receive a written pass.
Students must go directly to the area for which they have obtained permission and
then return to class as quickly as possible. Failure to do so or abuse of this procedure
will result in detention for cutting class and possible limitation of privileges.
LOCKERS
Lockers will be assigned by 3rd Period teachers in first semester and will remain
assigned for the year. Students are not allowed to share or trade lockers. Lockers are
the property of LHS and the DCS Board of Education and are for student use and not
for personal ownership. School officials retain the right to inspect lockers, there is no
expectation of privacy.
MEDIA CENTER
The media center is a place for research, reading, and/or studying, and student
use of the media center is encouraged. The media center staff is available to assist
you. In addition to scheduled class time in the media center, students may use the
facilities before and after school and at lunch.
Passes are required to use the media center at lunch, and students using the area
after school must be under direct supervision of a faculty member. It is the student’s
responsibility to make sure the proper procedures are followed. Students must sign
in at the circulation desk upon entering the media center. Books that are checked out
must be returned by the due date; students who have overdue or lost books will be
expected to pay the cost of the fine. All student accounts with the media center must
be cleared each nine weeks. No eating or drinking is allowed in the media center.
PROGRESS REPORTS AND
REPORT CARDS
Progress reports will be distributed to all students by their individual teachers at
the end of the 3rd and 6th weeks of each nine weeks grading period. Students who
are achieving below standard at any of these times will be issued a Personal
Education Plan by their teacher. Parents are encouraged to check on their students’
classroom performance early in the semester and to stay involved with their students’
academic progress. Parents have online access to key information about their
student. If not previously arranged, parents are invited to visit the office and
receive instructions regarding online access to student progress.
Report cards will be issued at the end of each nine weeks grading period.
Questions or concerns about report cards can be directed to Student Services.
Student transcripts will be issued annually to all students.
STUDENT SERVICES / ACADEMIC PROCEDURES
School counselors are available to provide assistance in academic planning, career
choices, and personal or social issues. Students who wish to speak with a counselor
should schedule an appointment with the secretary. Transcript requests can be made
online at the school website. Students may come to the Student Services office before
school, at break, at lunch, or after school to schedule an appointment. Students may
also come by on a “drop-in” basis if the teacher has given prior approval and the
policy is not abused.
Parents who desire a conference with an individual counselor or teacher should
call the student services office. School counselors, when deemed appropriate, will
refer students and/parents to the school social worker. The social worker will serve
as a liaison between the school and home environment by intervening in any
situation that may be interfering with the student’s ability to succeed.
LHS HONOR ROLL
Ledford Senior High School has a rich tradition of academic excellence. The faculty
and administration have high expectations for all students. An honor roll distinction
will be based on the following criteria at the end of each grading period:
Score 93 or above in each subject for “A” Honor Roll
Score 85 or above in each subject for “B” Honor Roll
*Students must be attempting at least three units of credit in order to be evaluated for
Honor Roll distinction.
Grading Scale: See grade section in system information
Final Examination Policy
Semester exams will be scheduled at the end of each semester. The state only
provides for a 5 day testing window. Parents are requested not to schedule
family events, trips etc. in the week before and after scheduled exams
so any dramatic changes in calendar days due to weather or other
issues do not force changes in plans. Students must take the exam on the
day/time scheduled unless circumstances are approved in the office and by the
affected teacher. Students are required to remain in their designated classrooms for
the entire exam period. Final exams in all subjects will count 20% of the final exam
grade. Students who do not take an exam will be given a zero (0) for the exam grade
in calculating a final average.
Refer to DCS handbook for exemption policy.
TUTORING/REMEDIATION
Students are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities for individual
assistance after school. Each day, a specific department is assigned to remediate for
courses which require an EOC.
Teachers will be available for remediation of students. Please take advantage of
the individual assistance that is available for you through our remediation program.
ACADEMIC HONOR CODE:
In order to promote high academic standards and to prevent academic dishonesty,
students are expected to:
1—Refrain from plagiarism;
2—Refrain from lying;
3—Refrain from all forms of cheating;
4—Refrain from sharing/receiving confidential test materials and information
5—Express opinions with consideration for the opinion of others;
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty is defined as cheating; working with another person without
permission; copying; unauthorized use of notes or books on examinations or
assignments without instructor approval; and plagiarism. Plagiarism is defined as
intentionally using another person’s words, thoughts, or ideas as one’s own.
Consequences
Upon the first offense, the student will receive a zero (0) on the assignment and
parents will be notified; upon the second offense, the student will receive a zero (0)
on the assignment, parents will be notified, and the student will be given one (1) day
of out-of-school suspension.
ATTENDANCE MAKE-UP
Attendance has been shown to be a major factor in poor performance
increasing the risk of dropping out. In order to receive credit, students may
not miss over eight (8) days in any period. Should absences go over the
maximum (8), students must begin making up those absences as soon as
possible after accumulating 4 and over. There are limits to allowed makeups. A maximum of five (5) periods can be made up per class. Absence
totals over 13 in any period eliminates opportunity for make up and extracurricular eligibility.
NC High School Athletic Association does not consider waived absences
in determining eligibility for participation. If a student exceeds 12 absences
in a semester, they will be ineligible to participate in the following semester.
If absences are due to medical conditions requiring hospitalization,
student/athletes may request waiver of this criteria from the state office. See
Coach Palmer regarding these procedures.
Absences are made up in the afternoons after school in the Learning
Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students should listen for the correct
locations each week, the center is conducted by teachers on a rotating basis.
Students may only make up excused period absences on an hour for hour basis. In
order to make up excused absences, the student must obtain a “green card”
(assignment card) from the main office. Students must get a green card for each
period that they intend to make up, and then go to the teacher who will write the
assignment and sign the card. Students will not be permitted in Learning Center
without a green card. Students are expected to have work to complete and will not
be allowed to sleep or talk during learning center.
All school rules apply.
Absence make-ups must be completed during the semester in which they occur.
Special consideration will be given for students who are absent in the last week of the
grading period.
It is the responsibility of parents and students to be aware of attendance issues.
Notifications occur on a daily basis through the automated system messenger
system and by mail on the 3rd, 6th, and 7th accumulated absence.
Complete attendance policy, including explanations of excused and waived
absences is contained in the County section of this handbook.
VISITORS
Student safety comes first; therefore, students are not to receive “visitors” during
regular school hours, which includes lunchtime. Any person coming to school for
education/business purposes is to report to the office upon entering campus to
receive a visitor pass. Students who are early graduates and alumni are also
considered visitors. Parents are advised to call and arrange an appointment before
they come to school to insure that the person they wish to see is available.
Procedure for Student Returning to School after an Absence
The student shall submit appropriate documentation as to the reason for the
absence(s) within three (3) days of returning to school. This documentation may
include written notes/verification from parents, medical professionals, court officials,
or other such agents related to the absence. The note must state the student’s name,
the date of the absence, reason for the absence, a parent signature and phone
number where a parent can be reached.
School officials may further specify documentation that they require. Failure to
submit appropriate documentation will result in the absence being coded as
unlawful.
Illness at School
If you become ill at school and need to go home, you must get a hall pass signed
by your classroom teacher and go to the Front Office. Only a parent/guardian can
authorize your release from school. Leaving school without parental permission will
be considered a cut from class/classes.
II. BEHAVIORAL ISSUES
Rules of Conduct and
Consequences of Action
All students are expected to demonstrate integrity, respect, responsibility, honesty,
and self-control. This expectation is directly related to the Board’s educational
objectives for students to learn to be responsible for and accept the consequences of
their behavior. Integrity, honesty, responsibility and self-discipline are critical for
establishing and maintaining a safe, orderly and inviting environment.
Penalties for Infractions:
(A) THE TIME-OUT
CLASSROOM
A teacher has the opportunity to use the Time Out classroom during the school day to
correct a student’s behavior without involving administrative personnel. If the
student’s behavior is hindering the instructional process in class, the teacher may
send the student to Time Out for the remainder of the period. The student may not
receive credit for any of that day’s assignments. A student can be assigned to TimeOut a total of three (3) times before he/she is suspended. Upon the fourth
assignment to Time Out, the student will come under administrative review and
may be suspended for one (1) day.
Consequences of Time-Out
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First offense – one (1) hour ASD
Second Offense – two (2) hours ASD
Third Offense – three (3) hours ASD
Fourth Offense – Administrative review and may suspend in or out of
school.
Each additional offense – Administrative review and may suspend in or out
of school.
(B) DETENTION
Students that are assigned to after-school detention need to bring school related
materials to work on during their assigned time. Failure to do so will result in
additional time or an out-of-school suspension. Failure to be in attendance for afterschool detention will result in an in-school or an out-of-school suspension depending
upon review of record.
Students may be placed in after-school detention for any of the offenses but not
limited to those listed under Student Misconduct. The Principal/Assistant Principal
has the authority to place students in after-school detention for violations that may
not be listed.
(C) OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION
The severity of the offense will determine the length of the suspension. Listed below
are examples of some offenses which are grounds for suspension:
 Disruptive behavior
 Failure to follow school procedures, directions, insubordination repetitively.
 Damage to school property
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Damage to private property
Assault on a school employee or other person on school grounds or off school
grounds at a school activity
Possession of weapons/dangerous instruments on campus
Possession of narcotics, alcoholic beverages, stimulant drugs/paraphernalia or
other prohibited substances
Abuse or distribution of over-the-counter medication
(D) REVOCATION OF HALL PRIVILEGES
Students are not to be in areas of the building/campus to which they are not assigned
without teacher approval. A violation will result in the loss of hall pass privileges
and two (2) hours of detention
(E) OTHER
There may be other means of corrective measures administered by the
faculty/administration.
STUDENT
MISCONDUCT
All behavioral problems, including the following will be dealt with in an appropriate
manner. The general policy in effect is if the behavior disrupts the process of
learning for the individual, the class, or school, the student will receive
consequences. This can include but not limited to:
 Sleeping in class.
 Verbal outbursts.
 Failure to participate / dress in PE
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Failure to have materials and being prepared for class.
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Tardiness to class.
Failure to follow the instruction of a teacher or staff member.
Inappropriate language/gesture or behavior.
Food/drink in classrooms.
Forged notes
Being in restricted areas during break or lunch (1st offense –two (2) hours).
Dress Code Violations
Cell Phones/Electronic devices or other unnecessary items
Being in the student parking lot without proper permission.
*Leaving school grounds without Permission”
Detention will be held Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at the designated times of
3:05 to 4:05. Late entrants will not be accepted. Students will have 10 school days (or
4 detention opportunities) in which to serve all accumulated hours. Time to be spent
in after-school detention must be in one-hour increments; no time will be divided.
Students with cumulative detention totals over six (6) must serve detention in
consecutive days to reduce the balance below six (6). Failure to serve detention
properly will result in suspension. Excessive detention totals may result in out of
school suspensions.
Radios, CD Players, MP3 Players, Pagers, Cell Phones or Other
Communication Devices
The use of these devices is prohibited during the school day. Recommendation for
these devices is for students to turn them off at 8:00. These devices are not to be
visible. This includes texting parents to arrange dismissals. Parents are cautioned
about sending texts to students during the day, for students to have their devices to
ring out or be available during class is a disruption and current Board policy
prevents this. Proper notification from parent to child is channeled through the main
office.
Consequences applied according to Board Policy and detailed on pg. 31 of this
handbook.
Cutting Class/School
Once a student has reported he/she shall not be absent from an assigned class
without a teacher’s permission or approval from the administrative office. Leaving
school grounds without permission will result in consequences.
1st Offense – Two (2) Hours ASD per period missed
2nd Offense – Out of School Suspensions
Repeated Offenses will result in increasing number of OSS days.
Failure to Participate
Students failing to participate in classroom activities (sleeping, not having assigned
materials, inappropriate PE dress) should initially be dealt with through parental
contact. Removal to TOR along with detention will be assigned by the teacher for
non-compliance.
Forgery
Forgery is the use of anyone else’s name on absence excuses, tardy notes, progress
reports, etc. The student who forges a note for another is also guilty of this offense ,
which may result in suspension or expulsion. *Up To Five (5) Days Suspension;
Absences Unexcused
SERIOUS STUDENT
MISCONDUCT
The following policy sets forth school rules prohibiting certain types of student
conduct that constitute major offenses. A student found to be in violation of any one
of these may receive punishment as severe as a long-term suspension (over ten (10)
days), an extended suspension for the remainder of the school year, or a 365-day
suspension as prescribed by law.
Less serious conduct can be dealt with by the Principal under the disciplinary
authority given to Principals by the statutes or School Board regulations regarding
short-term suspensions.
The initial judgment that certain conduct violates one of these rules is made by the
Principal who may discipline the student by applying punishment of up to a ten (10)
day suspension, and/or the Principal may confer personally with the Superintendent
and secure Superintendent approval for more severe actions.
Notwithstanding any provisions of this section, the policies and procedures for the
discipline of students with disabilities shall be consistent with federal laws and
regulations in school buildings, and on any school owned or operated vehicle, off
school property at any school sponsored event.
*Students shall comply with directions of all school personnel at all times while a
student is at school, in any school approved activity or function or during any
period of time when students are subject to the authority of school personnel and
at any time when the student’s behavior has a direct and immediate effect on
maintaining order and discipline and protecting the safety and welfare of students
and staff.*
G.S. 115C-391 Principal has the power to suspend for 10 days or less, any
student who willfully violates policies of conduct established by the local
Board of Education. Other actions include up To Three (3) Days
Suspension; Long Term Suspension; and Law Enforcement Called.
Exploding Fireworks or Igniting Similar Devices
Students shall not explode firecrackers or ignite pyrotechnic, incendiary or smoke
producing devices or cause any fire whether or not there is an intent to commit arson
or other crimes involving fire or explosion at any time while a student is at school in
any school building and on any school premises, attending school sponsored
activities, on or about any school-owned or operated vehicle, off school property at
any school-sponsored or school-approved activity or function or during any period
of time when students are subject to the authority of school personnel and at any time
when the student’s behavior has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order
and discipline and protecting safety and welfare of students and staff. (Suspension
up to and including long-term suspension. Confiscate device. Law
enforcement will be called. Restitution may be required.)
Bomb Threats / Unjustified Activation of Alarm System
A student shall not: 1) Make a report by any means of communication to any person
or group of persons, knowing or having reason to know the report is false, that there
is located on educational property or at a school-sponsored curricular or
extracurricular activity off educational property any device, substance, or material
designed to cause harmful or life-threatening illness or injury to another
person; 2) With intent to perpetrate a hoax, conceal, place, disseminate or display on
educational property or at a school-sponsored curricular or extracurricular activity
off educational property any device, machine, instrument, artifact, letter, package,
material, or substance, so as to cause any person reasonably to believe the same to be
a substance material capable of causing harmful or life-threatening illness or injury to
another person; 3) Threaten to commit on educational property or at a schoolsponsored curricular or extracurricular activity off educational property an act of
terror that is likely to cause serious injury or death, when that threat is intended to
cause a significant disruption to the instructional day or a school-sponsored activity
or causes that disruption; 4) Make a report, knowing or having reason to know the
report is false, that there is about to occur or is occurring on educational property or
at a school-sponsored curricular or extracurricular activity off educational property
an act of terror that is likely to cause serious injury or death, when that report is
intended to cause a significant disruption school-sponsored activity or disruption to
the instructional day or causes that disruption; or 5) Conspire to commit any of the
acts described in sections 1-4. Up to Ten (10) Days Suspension and including LongTerm Suspension
Assault on a School Employee and Other Persons
Pursuant to G.S. 115C-391 and in accordance with other provisions of law, a student
shall not intentionally cause or attempt to cause physical injury or intentionally
behave in such a way as could be reasonable cause physical injury to a school
employee or any other person (1) on school grounds at any time, or (2) off the
grounds at a school activity, function, or event, including buses. Neither selfdefense nor action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to
protect some other person is to be considered an intentional act under this rule.
Pursuant to the provisions provided
In G.S. 115C-391, the Superintendent shall, upon recommendation of the Principal,
remove to an alternative education setting, as provided in subdivision (4) of G.S.
115C-391, any student who is at least thirteen (13) and who physically assaults and
seriously injures a teacher or other school personnel. If no appropriate alternative
educational setting is available, the Superintendent shall, upon recommendation of
the Principal, suspend for no less than three hundred (300) days but no more than
three hundred sixty-five (365) days any student who is at least thirteen (13) and who
physically assaults and seriously injures a teacher or other school personnel.
Threats or action of assault against school employees or other adults including
physical, written, or verbal are subject to the authority of school personnel. Law
enforcement will be advised.
*1st Offense – Five (5)Days Suspension and/up to including Long-Term Suspension
*2nd Offense – Ten (10) Days Suspension and/up to including Long-Term
Suspension
Physical abuse of a student/ Fighting
The school has assumed the position that students will refrain from fighting or any
other acts of violence. If the student is having difficulty with another student, it is
his/her responsibility to report this situation to a teacher, counselor, or
administrator. Otherwise the student may be penalized for his or her involvement in
the situation. Fighting will not be tolerated at Ledford High School.
A student shall not intentionally do bodily harm to any person on the school grounds
before, during, and after school hours, including evening functions. The school
recommends that students avoid confrontation by stating they do not wish to fight on
school grounds and attempt to walk away. The SRO and administration will apply
appropriate criminal charges and suspensions..
1st Offense– Up to 10 days suspension; Law enforcement consulted.
2nd Offense– Up to 10 days suspension: Law enforcement consulted.
Additional Offenses: Recommendation for long-term suspension.
Insulting, abusive, harassing, profane, obscene, or serious disrespectful words,
acts of touching, gestures, signs, and verbal threats.
Students shall respect other students, visitors, or school employees by utilizing
appropriate language and behavior at all times. Any action which is insulting,
abusive, harassing, profane, obscene, or seriously disrespectful and which disrupts
the learning process for any student or which demeans or degrades another person is
prohibited. Students who believe they have been subjected to violations of this rule
should consult an administrator.
Up to long-term suspension.
Weapons and Dangerous
Instruments
A student shall not knowingly possess, handle, or transmit any object that can
reasonably be considered a weapon (1) on the school grounds during and
immediately before or immediately after school hours, (2) on the school grounds at
any other time when the school is being used by a group, or (3) off the school
grounds at any school activity, function, or event, including buses. It shall be a
violation of policy for a person to carry or possess any sharp pointed or edged
instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips, and tools
used solely for preparation of food, instruction, and maintenance and educational
property. The above list is not exclusive, and any object that can reasonably be
considered a weapon may be included. It shall be a violation of this policy for a
student to carry or possess fireworks or firecrackers.
*Students who possess, handle, or transmit firearms, including any type of
gun, rifle, or pistol, or other firearm, or any dynamite cartridge, bomb,
grenade, mine, or powerful explosive, on school premises or as defined in
items 1,2, and 3 or rule 6 will be suspended for one (1) full year (365 days).
Action of this nature must be approved by the Superintendent. This
regulation does not apply to weapons brought to school for ceremonial and
instructional purpose under the supervision of a teacher or Administrator.
Administrators are required to report incidents of guns or weapons on
campus to law enforcement officials.
Note: Hand-held metal detectors will be used randomly by the Principal or
his Designee. It is a Class I felony, punishable by up to five (5) years in
prison, for a student or adult to bring a firearm on school property for any
reason.
Ten (10) Days Suspension and including Long-Term Suspension
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
School authorities have the right to search individuals when there is a reasonable
suspicion that the individual may be in possession of “prohibited substances.” When
there is reasonable suspicion, the student will be referred for case management.
The school reserves the right to search cars parked on school property when the
school administration has reason to suspect contraband materials may be present. If
inappropriate material is found in your vehicle, penalties (dependent on material)
will range from revocation of driving privileges, long-term suspension and referral to
law enforcement authorities.
GUIDELINES FOR DRESS
Please refer to the DCS Handbook for appropriate dress guidelines for students.
The following consequences will be used at Ledford for violations of the dress code
during each semester: Students will be asked to change to appropriate attire.
Additionally, consequences may range from detention to suspension for noncompliance.
(DCS Handbook Guidelines)
Dress/Appearance for Students in Grades 6-12
The following attire is considered inappropriate: (Bold represents points of
emphasis.)
 Clothing or attachments that are disruptive to the teaching/learning
process or are revealing, indecent, vulgar or obscene.
 Clothing that promotes alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or the use of
controlled substances by words or symbols, or is of a disruptive nature
 Hats, sweatbands, bandanas, or sunglasses inside school buildings
 Shorts, skirts, and dresses shorter than finger tips when arms are fully
extended.
 Sleeveless shirt, dress, blouse, muscle shirt of any variety and width of
shoulder strap.
 Clothing that contains profanity, nudity, depicts violence or is sexual in
nature by words or symbols
 Clothing that is sheer or mesh. No holes, rips or tears above the knee.
 Visible undergarments, including backless tops.
 Pants worn in such a manner that underwear is exposed to view, or pants
that are generally revealing (pants that sag below the waist)
 Grooming accessories worn in the hair
 Footwear that may present a hazard to health/safety
 Oversized shirts due to the potential for concealment of disruptive/violent
items/weapons
 NOTE: Principals may enact additional restrictions as deemed appropriate.
The faculty and administration have a responsibility to the enforcement of this policy
and shall handle student violations of this policy at the beginning of the day if at all
possible. The first violation of this policy will result in a warning and a parent
contact requesting a change of clothes. The second violation during the same
school year may result in a short-term suspension from the school for up to ten (10)
days. A third or subsequent violation during the school year may result in long-term
suspension for the remainder of the school year.
Classroom Disruption
A student shall not disturb the normal atmosphere of the classroom, distract the
teacher or fellow students nor exhibit any behavior that hinders the educational
process. *Time-out, Detention, and up to 5 days out of school
suspension.
Inappropriate Displays of
Personal Affection
Students shall conduct their personal and social relationships according to acceptable
community standards. Inappropriate public displays of affection will not be allowed.
*Detention and Up to Three (3) Days Suspension
Damage, Theft or Destruction of School Property or Private
Property
A student shall not intentionally cause or attempt to cause substantial damage, as
determined by appropriate school officials, to valuable property, or steal or attempt
to steal valuable public property either on the school grounds or during a school
activity, function, ore event off school grounds. Suspension up to and including
long term; law enforcement called.
Trespassing
A student will be considered a trespasser and may be criminally prosecuted under
any of the following circumstances.
(1) A student who is on the campus of a school to which he or she is not
assigned during the school day without the knowledge and consents of the
officials of the school the student is visiting.
(2) Any student who loiters at any school at the close of the school day
without specific need or supervision.
(3) Any student who has been suspended or expelled from school who
appears on the property of any school during the suspension period without
the expressed permission of the Principal.
TELEPHONES
A telephone for student use is located in the main office. Students must obtain
permission from a teacher in order to use the phone and sign the phone log upon
entering. Students are expected to be courteous and polite to office staff and should
keep conversations brief and appropriate.
Students are NOT allowed to use cell phones during school hours.
Please do not have parents, friends, or employers call your cell
phone during the instructional day to leave messages or send
text messages to you.
NON-COMPLIANCE AND INSUBORDINATION
A student is in non-compliance and insubordinate by failing to obey,
follow directions of any staff, faculty, and/or administrator, or with school
policy and procedure whether written or verbal.
Examples of non-compliance but not limited to:
 Failure to serve detentions.
 Not observing parking regulations.
 Leaving school without permission.
 Repeated dress code violations.
 Repeated use of electronic devices during the school day.
 Failure to respond appropriately and respectfully to any staff
member.
Consequences:
Based on severity, suspensions up to 10 days and long term may apply.
Davidson County Schools
Parent and Student Information Section
Davidson County Schools
Parent and Student Information Section
Student Fees
All high school students will pay a base fee of $40. Any fees may be waived or
reduced for students who qualify for fee waiver or reduction. Additional fees for
band, parking, and special programs may be assessed according to policies
established by the Davidson County Board of Education.
NC Driver’s License: Academic Requirements
NC law requires that schools provide the NC Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), at
the end of each semester, the names of students under age 18 who failed to pass a
minimum of 70% of their course work. The licenses/permits of these students are
then revoked by DMV until the students have met the academic standards for
maintaining a license/permit as prescribed by DMV.
Attendance
NC law requires every child between the ages of seven and sixteen, or under age
seven if enrolled in public school in grades K-2, to attend school regularly.
Attendance in school and participation in class are an integral part of academic
achievement and the teaching-learning process. Regular attendance develops patterns
of behavior essential to professional and personal success in life.
School-Related Activities
The following school-related activities will not be counted as absences from either
class or school:
 Field trips sponsored by the school
 School-initiated and scheduled activities
 Athletic events requiring early dismissal from school
 In-school suspension
Students are responsible for missed assignments and completing them within the
specified time period (see “Make-up Work for Absences” next page).
Lawful Absences
The following are lawful absences for which a student will be counted as absent:
 When an illness or injury occurs that prevents the student from being
physically able to attend school.
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Note:
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When a quarantine to isolate a student from the general public is ordered
by health officials.
When there is a death in the immediate family, including but not limited to
the student’s grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters.
When a student is party to or subpoenaed in a court proceeding or
administrative tribunal. Documentation of student’s required presence is
mandatory.
When a student has prior approval from the principal for religious
observance as per School Board Policy.
When a student has prior approval from the principal and is involved in a
valid educational opportunity.
When the absence is due to a medical or dental appointment, appropriate
documentation is required and would include the following:
o Physician’s statement, dated and on letterhead
o Note from physician, clarifying the illness as prolonged,
contagious or as contributing to a pattern of absences, etc. (Include
the expected date of student’s return if possible.)
Students must submit documentation for any absence within three days of
returning to school. Failure to submit such will result in the absence being
coded as unlawful.
Make-up Work for Absences
Following an absence, students are permitted to make up all work missed within five
days (specific date to be set by teacher) of returning to school, unless the principal
determines that an extension of time is warranted.
High school students may make up five absences per course per semester except for
absences due to suspension resulting from an act of violence that threatens the safety
of other students, school personnel or the orderly operations of the school as
determined by the principal. High school students may make up absences within the
available make-up program limitations.
Pattern of Absences: Referral and Waivers
When a pattern of six absences exists, referral to the now called Collaborative
Student Services (CSS) should be made to determine eligibility under Section 504 or
IDEA. The CSS should share information with the principal for consideration
should a waiver be requested.
Maximum Number of Absences
High school students may have a maximum of eight absences for semester courses.
Exceeding this number will cause the student not to receive course credit or be
promoted unless they:
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Are granted a waiver from the attendance policy by the principal for an
absence that falls outside the previously stated guidelines.
Successfully complete an after school program to make-up time missed on
the basis of one hour for each ninety minute class period missed during the
school term in which the excessive absences occurred. FOR ATHLETIC
PURPOSES, high school students must make up ninety minutes for each
class period missed.
Waiver Procedures
A student may apply to the principal/waiver committee for a waiver of lawful
absences due to extenuating circumstances e.g., chronic medical condition for which
previous documentation is on file. The request must be submitted in writing after the
student has reached six absences for semester courses. Principals have final decision
over requested waivers. Parents are notified of decisions and may appeal decisions
according to School Board Policy.
A student may apply to the principal/waiver committee under the following
circumstances:
1. Hospitalization/Extended Illness (Documentation showing dates of
hospitalization/illness. A doctor’s signature is required.)
2. Court Subpoena (attach copy of the subpoena)
3. Celebration of an established religious holiday not incorporated in the
school calendar (prior approval from the principal is required)
4. Death in the immediate family (not to exceed three days). Immediate
family is considered to be parent(s), grandparent(s), siblings.
It is important to note that a lawful absence is not a waived absence. All absences are
included in the eight day limit unless formally waived. Students will be expected to
make up time for routine absences which do not meet the waiver guidelines. (Waived
absences are not recognized by the NCHSAA in determining athletic eligibility;
therefore, a waived absence applies toward the total number of absences in a
semester.)
High School Registration
A Davidson County High School Curriculum Guide will be made available in the
spring prior to registration. Students must make course selections carefully. It is
often impossible to make changes during the summer and after school begins. Once
school dismisses for the summer, changes in student schedules will be made only for
administrative purposes or when the situation dictates (i.e. student failed a required
course, did not pass prerequisite course, etc.) Any change in student schedules after
the fifth day of the term will result in academic penalty. For classes dropped after the
fifth day, parental permission must be secured. A failing grade of WF (Withdrawn
Failing) will be recorded for the course as an indication that the course was dropped.
This failing grade will be averaged as part of the student’s Grade Point Average
(GPA) and class rank.
High School Graduation Requirements
Graduation candidates who entered the ninth grade prior to 2009-10 must complete
one of three courses of study: College/University Preparation, College/Technical
Preparation or Occupational Preparation. Graduation candidates who entered the
ninth grade in 2009-10 and thereafter are required to complete the Future Ready
course of study.
Students must pass all EOCs in order to graduate.
The Graduation Project is an independent project that is completed over four years in
high school. Students will be guided through the process by their academic advisors
and English teachers. There are four components to the project – the research paper,
the product, the reflective portfolio, and the formal presentation. Components will be
revised and resubmitted until each focus on the state rubric is noted as Completed. At
this point its completion will be noted on the official student transcript. All four
components must be Completed in order to receive a North Carolina High School
diploma.
Honors Courses
To be successful in college, all students who intend to further their education at a
four-year college/university, a community college, or a technical institute are urged
to select rigorous academic courses.
Before registering for honors courses, students and parents should
consider seriously the expectations for these classes and decide if they
are able and willing to commit to these requirements:
 Honors students must have a strong work ethic and be
responsible and disciplined learners.
 Honors students must be able to read independently for
comprehension, to analyze, and to evaluate material. They
must be able to organize their thoughts for both written and
oral expression (essays, research, speeches, etc.)
 Honors students must realize that they will be required to spend
a great deal of time working outside of class. Summer reading
may be required in honors classes. Some courses require
independent projects, community service, and other activities
that must be completed outside the regular school day.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
AP courses are designed to match the content of entry-level college courses and are
quite demanding with high expectations. Students who excel in Honors courses may
find AP courses rewarding and challenging and may receive college credit if they
excel in AP courses. These courses provide a strong foundation for any student
considering a four-year college. Upon completion of the AP curriculum, students
who take the Princeton exam will receive AP weight for the course. Students who do
not take the Princeton exam will have their final average reduced by one letter grade.
If an AP course is taught as a face to face two-semester course, the first semester will
count as an elective course and receive Honors weight. Students must complete both
semesters of two-semester AP courses. Once students enroll in an AP course, they
may not drop the course in the summer or during the school year. Online AP courses
through NCVPS are yearlong experiences and receive only one unit of credit at the
AP weight level. Students must adhere to NCVPS’s drop-add policy.
Grade Point Average and Class Rank Calculation
Davidson County high schools use a 4.0 scale to determine Grade
Point Average (GPA). The 4.0 scale is listed below. Class rank is
cumulative over four years and includes the weighted course grades.
Class ranks are calculated at the end of each semester.
*Honors courses are weighted one additional quality point and
Advanced Placement (AP) courses are weighted two additional quality
points.
Percentage Grades
100 % = 4.0
94 % = 3.75
88 % = 3.00
82 % = 2.25
76 % =
1.50
99 % = 4.0
93 % = 3.625 87 % = 2.875 81 % = 2.125 75 % =
1.375
98 % = 4.0
92 % = 3.50
86 % = 2.75
80 % = 2.00
74 % =
1.25
97 % = 4.0
91 % = 3.375 85 % = 2.625 79 % = 1.875 73 % =
1.125
96 % = 4.0
90 % = 3.25
84 % = 2.50
78 % = 1.75
70 % 72 % = 1.00
95 % = 3.875 89 % = 3.125 83 % = 2.375 77 % = 1.625 >69 =
0.00
Uses of Class Rank and Grade Point Averages (GPA)
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Junior Class Marshals, who serve during commencement exercises and
during the Senior Awards Day Program, are chosen on the basis of their
cumulative class ranks. All grades continuing through the third grading
period of the junior year are included in determining cumulative class rank.
Honor Graduates: The following honor award recognitions are considered
more appropriate for the 21st Century. Beginning with the Class of 2011,
honor graduates will be recognized with the following distinction:
Summa Cum Laude-Students with a weighted GPA of 4.5 or
greater
Magna Cum Laude-Students with a weighted GPA of 4.1004.499
Cum Laude-Students with a weighted GPA of 3.800-4.009
Each school will honor a valedictorian (student with the highest cumulative
GPA) and a salutatorian (student with the second highest cumulative
weighted GPA) at the commencement exercises.
North Carolina Academic Scholars are recognized during Senior Awards Day
ceremonies and receive an appropriate seal of recognition on their high school
diploma.
Requirements:
Effective beginning with the Class of 2007, students must have an overall fouryear unweighted GPA of 3.5 or better and must complete the following program
of study:
 4 units of English
 4 units of Mathematics (Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and a higher level
math course with Algebra 2 as the prerequisite).
 3 units of Science: a physical science course (Physics or Chemistry,
Biology and an Earth/Environmental Science)
 3 units of Social Studies (World History, Civics/Economics, and US
History)
 2 units of Foreign Language (two credits of the same language)
 1 unit of Healthful Living
 1 unit of Career & Technical Education
 1 unit of Arts Education (Dance, Music, Theatre Arts or Visual Arts)
 5 units of elective credits to include at least two second-level or advanced
courses
Note: The following revised plan is effective for students who enter the ninth grade
for the first time in or after 2009-10. Please see the NC Academic Scholars website
for the new requirements: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/curriculum/scholars.
Testing
End-of-Course Tests
Students enrolled in classes with an End-of-Course (EOC) or VOCATS exam must
take the exam which will count as 25% of the final course average. Students must
also achieve an overall final class average of 70 or above and meet DCS attendance
requirements. If a student passes the EOC and fails the class work, he must repeat
the course. If the student passes the class work and fails the EOC, he must retake the
EOC and pass it before credit is awarded. Should a student fail the EOC on their
second retake, a waiver of this requirement may be taken under consideration.
Students are encouraged to seek academic remediation during the semester if it
appears they may not meet either class work or testing requirements.
Exam Exemption
Exemption from final exams based on attendance cannot be applied to any course for
which there is a required End-of-Course (EOC) examination, VoCATS examination,
or transfer or college course examination. To be eligible for exam exemption, the
following requirements must be met:
o With a final course average of A, there can be no more than four
absences.
o B average, no more than three absences
o C average, no more than two absences
o D average, no more than one absence
 Absences waived or made up will not reduce class absences for the purpose
of this policy.
 If a student elects to take an exam rather than be exempted, the exam grade
will count as 25% of the final course grade.
Internet Use Policy
DCS respects parents’ rights to decide whether or not to grant permission for their
child(ren) to use the internet. The district does provide schools with filtering services
to create a safer and more productive Internet for students. Teachers attempt to
monitor and direct student activity; however, students may find ways to access other
materials. Students are ultimately responsible for appropriate behavior on the
school’s computer network, just as they are responsible for appropriate behavior on
the school campus. A Permission Form for Internet Use must be signed by the
student and parent/guardian before Internet use is permitted.
FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that
protects the privacy of students’ education records. FERPA gives parents/guardians
the right to refuse release of directory information by filing a note of “Don’t
Release” in the school’s office at the beginning of the school year. Parents/guardians
(or eligible students) have the right to inspect their child(ren)’s records. These rights
transfer to the student when the student becomes 18 years of age. Parents/eligible
students have the right to request a correction to records. If the parents/eligible
students do not feel the school’s response is adequate, a formal hearing may be
requested. A rebuttal statement by the parents/eligible student(s) may be placed
within the record. FERPA protects the release of directory information except in the
following circumstances:
 School officials with legitimate educational interest
 Other schools to which a student is transferring
 Specified officials for audit or evaluation
 Appropriate parties offering financial aid to a student
 Approved agencies conducting research in DCS
 Accrediting organizations
 Judicial order or subpoena compliance
 Health, safety, court and law enforcement officials
Scholastic Accident Insurance
DCS carries basic/excess accident coverage for all students. This policy is secondary
to insurance carried by parents and primary if there is no insurance carried by
parents. This policy does not cover sport-related injuries and is only for basic
medical services.
It is strongly recommended that parents review the voluntary scholastic accident
insurance program available to students at a nominal cost. The voluntary scholastic
insurance program offers coverage for both school-time activities and for extracurricular activities (excluding varsity football) for a nominal charge. An informative
brochure on the recommended insurance carrier is available at each school.
Medication Taken by Students
Students may self-medicate as prescribed by their physician in situations that may
include asthma (inhalers), diabetes (insulin and glucometer), and severe allergic
reactions (emergency epinephrine). All prescription drugs must be registered and
stored in a designated area supervised by the principal, along with a required medical
form.
The following criteria must be met for self-medication:
(1) A DCS medication form, which is available in the school’s office and on
the DCS website, must be signed by a parent/guardian and completed
annually by a licensed healthcare provider.
Required information:
o Student’s name and birth date
o Name of medication/equipment
o Dosage to be taken at school
o Relationship to meals
o Time medication should be given
o Side effects
o Any reasons not to give medication
o Date medication should be stopped, if any
(2) Student may ask for health counseling by the school nurse; this counseling
service may include the following:
o
o
o
o
Review of health condition medications, triggers, precautions
Role play of procedure to be used when necessary
Review of medication policy and disciplinary actions for sharing
medication
Self-medication contract to be signed by the student
Medication:
Long-term medication: (Longer than two weeks) Medication forms must have the
physician’s signature, be specific as to the dosage amount and times, and be updated
at the beginning of each school year and any time there is a change in the dosage or
time administered. No medication will be administered unless it is in a container
dispensed by a pharmacist with the student’s name, name of medication, date the
prescription was filled through a pharmacy, and clearly marked directions.
Short-term: (Two weeks or less) Medicine must be in a medicine bottle with the
pharmacy’s label and directions. A parent/guardian’s note requesting administration
must accompany the medicine.
Non-Prescription Medicine: Students may possess only the recommended dosage
sufficient for a single school day of over-the-counter medication, and it must be kept
in the original product container. Students may not distribute, purchase, or sell any
medication prescription or non-prescription.
Transportation/Busing
Bus stops may not be closer than .2 miles. A route may not deviate from a general
path of direction for a distance of less than one-half mile and then return to the
original path except for groups of 10+ pupils, unescorted pupils in grades K-3, or
special needs students.
Students are asked to be at the designated stop when the bus arrives. Drivers are not
permitted to blow the horn to indicate the bus has arrived. Eating and drinking are
prohibited on buses. Buses and all other school property are tobacco free.
Cell Phone Use During School Hours: Grades 9 - 12
Students may possess cell phones on school premises but must have them turned off
and out of sight during school hours. Failure to comply with this directive will result
in the following actions:
 First offense: Cell phone is confiscated and returned at the end of the
school day to the student.
 Second offense: Cell phone is confiscated and returned directly to the
parent.
 Third offense: Cell phone is confiscated and returned at the end of seven
(7) days to the parent; the principal could, however, modify the confiscation
process to deal with specific hardships which the parent might share with
the principal.

Fourth offense and thereafter: The student is suspended for a day and the
phone is confiscated for another week.
Dress/Appearance for Students in Grades 6-12
The following attire is considered inappropriate:
 Clothing or attachments that are disruptive to the teaching/learning process
or are revealing, indecent, vulgar or obscene
 Clothing that promotes alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or the use of
controlled substances by words or symbols, or is of a disruptive nature
 Hats, sweatbands, bandanas, or sunglasses inside school buildings
 Shorts, skirts, and dresses shorter than mid-thigh
 Shirts and blouses that do not cover the waist, midriff or go past the
waistline
 Clothing that contains profanity, nudity, depicts violence or is sexual in
nature by words or symbols
 Clothing that is sheer or mesh
 Undergarments that are visible
 Pants worn in such a manner that underwear is exposed to view, or pants
that are generally revealing (pants that sag below the waist)
 Grooming accessories worn in the hair
 Footwear that may present a hazard to health/safety
 Oversized shirts due to the potential for concealment of disruptive/violent
items/weapons
 NOTE: Principals may elect to enact additional restrictions as deemed
appropriate.
Discipline
Out of School Suspension
The severity of the offense will determine the length of the suspension. Listed below
are examples of some offenses which are grounds for suspension:
 Disruptive behavior
 Damage to school property
 Damage to private property
 Assault on a school employee or other person on school grounds or off
school grounds at a school activity
 Possession of weapons/dangerous instruments on campus
 Possession of narcotics, alcoholic beverages, stimulant drugs/paraphernalia
or other prohibited substances
 Abuse or distribution of over-the-counter medication
 Tobacco use/possession
 Bomb threat
 Repeated school violations
As this list is not all-inclusive, other offenses as deemed inappropriate by the
administration may also result in suspension.
Additional Offenses:
 Discrimination is defined as any act that treats others unreasonably or
unfavorably based solely on their membership in a socially distinct group or
category, such as race, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, or disability.
Discrimination may be intentional or unintentional.
 Harassment can be a type of unlawful discrimination. Harassment is
unwanted, unwelcome, and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or
offends the victim, and results in a hostile environment for the victim. The
hostile environment can be created through pervasive or persistent
misbehavior or a single incident, if sufficiently severe. Harassing behavior
(among students or between faculty and students) may include, but is not
limited to, abusive words, derogatory comments or slurs, lewd propositions,
assault, impeding or blocking movement, offensive touching or any
physical interference with normal work or movement, and visual insults
such as derogatory posters or cartoons.
 Bullying is a form of harassment. Bullying means the repeated intimidation
of others by real or threatened infliction of physical, verbal, written,
electronically transmitted contact; by emotional abuse; or through attacks
on property. Bullying may include verbal taunts, name calling and putdowns, extortion of money or possessions, implied or stated threats, or
exclusion from peer groups.
 Hazing is to harass or to persecute with meaningless, difficult, or
demeaning tasks.
Students who encounter any of the above offensive acts should report such
situations to a teacher, school counselor, and/or administrator.
Suspensions
Short-Term Suspension: One – ten days as determined by the principal
Long-Term Suspension: More than ten days as determined by the principal and
superintendent
Students must be given verbal or written notice of the offense, given an explanation
of the evidence (if allegations are denied), given the opportunity to present
explanation/ evidence in their defense, and informed of their right to a hearing. If
students request a hearing, the suspension will be postponed until after the hearing,
unless the principal decides the presence of the student will be disruptive to the
school.
Academic credit may be earned during the suspension if students complete
assignments. Some situations may merit opportunities to make-up attendance.
Expulsion: This action will occur when the severity of the offense warrants removal
of the student permanently (i.e. bomb threat, guns/weapons on campus – see full list
at board policies on DCS web site).
Narcotics, Alcoholic Beverages and Stimulant Drugs, Drug Paraphernalia, and
Prohibited Substances
A student shall not possess, sell, use, transmit, conspire to transmit or to distribute, or
be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine,
barbiturate, marijuana, counterfeit drug (substances claimed to be a prohibited
substance), alcoholic beverage, malt beverage, inhalant or intoxicant of any kind, or
any controlled substance, or use, possess or distribute any drug paraphernalia
(associated with the use of controlled substances – roach clips, roll paper, pipes,
bongs etc). Misbehavior will be investigated by law enforcement on and off school
grounds, at school functions, and on buses.
Selling or Distributing Prohibited Substances
A student found guilty of trafficking any prohibited substance shall be suspended for
no less than ten days. Legal authorities will be notified and a complaint will be filed.
If re-admission to school is allowed, the student will be referred to a student
assistance team.
Possession, Use and/or Being under the Influence of Prohibited Substances
Grades 6-12
First Offense
The student shall be suspended for five days. Parents/guardians will be notified and
given information on substance abuse, interventions, and treatment. The student will
automatically be referred to a student assistance team. Minimum suspension from
extra-curricular activities will be for the duration of the suspension from school. Any
further suspension will be determined by the principal. The student may also be
subject to prosecution by the juvenile and criminal laws of the state.
Second Offense
The student shall be suspended for ten days. Parent/guardian will be notified.
Minimum suspension from extracurricular activities will be for the duration of the
suspension from school. Any further suspension will be determined by the principal.
The student may also be subject to prosecution by the juvenile and criminal laws of
the state.
Third Offense
The student will be subject to long-term suspension for the remainder of the school
year. The student may also be subject to prosecution by the juvenile and criminal
laws of the state.
Abuse or Distribution of Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication
Abuse or distribution, for sale or otherwise, of OTC medications, receiving OTC
medications or consuming a non-prescribed quantity is a violation of the substance
abuse
policy and may result in up to ten days suspension or longer.
6.11 STANDARDS OF EXPECTED STUDENT BEHAVIOR
Rule 9: Student Tobacco Use Policy
It is the responsibility of the Davidson County School System to
protect the rights of students to a free and appropriate education,
including an environment free of activities and symbols that
influence students toward the use of substances and behavior that
is detrimental to healthful living.
The use of tobacco products in school by students connotes school
approval, if not sponsorship of such habits. The use of tobacco at an
early age is a definite health hazard and often a social liability. We
have a legal and moral obligation to our students to develop policies
that protect the health and future of our students.
To this end, the following policy shall be placed in effect:
Students shall not use or possess any type of tobacco products on
school property during the time school is open for instructional
activities or when being transported to and from school. This
includes other educational activities, school sponsored events, field
trips, and athletic functions while participating in an activity or being
under the direct supervision of a school staff member. For the
purposes of this policy, the term "tobacco product" means any
product that contains or that is made or derived from tobacco and is
intended for human consumption, including but not limited to,
cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronis cigarillos,
electronic pipes, vapor products, cigars, cigarillos, pipes, bidis,
hookahs, smokeless or spit tobacco, or snuff.
Penalties for Violation:
Students who violate the tobacco policy will receive the following
penalties:
For Middle Grades and High School (6-12):
Possession and/or Use:
1. First Offense: three-hour (3 hour) assignment to in-school
suspension (middle school) or detention (high school) and
parental conference.
2. Second Offense: one day out-of-school suspension, parent
contact, referral to student assistance team.
3. Third Offense: Two days of out-of-school suspension, parent
contact, and student assistance team interventions.
4. Fourth Offense: Five days suspension, parent contact, student
assistance team interventions.
5. Fifth Offense: Hearing to determine possible long-term
suspension for persistent violation of school rules.
All offenses require that students forfeit all tobacco products in their
possession.
A student shall not use or possess matches or lighters while on
school premises, while under the direct supervision of school
personnel on or off school grounds, on field trips, or while on school
buses of any kind. Students who violate this provision will be subject
to school-imposed penalties at the discretion of the principal.
Revised: June 2, 2014
8.2 DAVIDSON COUNTY TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOL POLICY
The Davidson County Board of Education recognizes that the use of
tobacco products is a health, safety, and environmental hazard for
students, employees, visitors, and school facilities. The board believes
that the use of tobacco products on school grounds, in school
buildings and facilities, on school property or at school-related or
school-sponsored events is detrimental to the health and safety of
students, staff and visitors. The Board acknowledges that adult
employees and visitors serve as role models for students. The Board
recognizes that it has an obligation to promote positive role models in
schools and promote a healthy learning and working environment,
free from unwanted smoke and tobacco use for the students,
employees, and visitors on the school campus. Finally, the board
recognizes that it has a legal authority and obligation pursuant to
G.S. 115C-407 Policy prohibiting Tobacco Use in School Buildings as
well as the federal Pro-Children's Act, Title X of Public Law 103-227
and the No Child Left Behind Act.
1.
Tobacco Use Prohibited
No student, staff member or school visitor is permitted to use any
tobacco product at any time, including non-school hours:
A.
B.
C.
in any building, facility, or vehicle owned, leased,
rented or chartered by the Davidson County
Schools;
on any school grounds and property – including
athletic fields and parking lots – owned leased,
rented or chartered by the Davidson County Board
of Education or
at any school-sponsored or school-related event oncampus or off-campus.
In addition, school district employees, school volunteers, contractors
or other persons performing services on behalf of the school district
also are prohibited from using tobacco products at any time while on
duty and in the presence of students, either on or off school
grounds. Further, no student is permitted to possess a tobacco
product while in any school building, while on school grounds or
property or at any school-sponsored or school-related event or at
any other time that students are under the authority of school
personnel.
Tobacco products may be included in instructional or research
activities in public school buildings if the activity is conducted or
supervised by the faculty member overseeing the instruction or
research and the activity does not include smoking, chewing, or
otherwise ingesting the tobacco product.
2.
Definition of Tobacco Products and Tobacco Use
For the purposes of this policy, “tobacco product” means any
product that contains or that is made or derived from tobacco
and is intended for human consumption, including, but not
limited to cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars,
electronic cigarellos, electronic pipes, vapor products, cigars,
cigarellos, pipes, bidis, hookahs, smokeless or spit tobacco, or
snuff. “Tobacco use” includes smoking, chewing, dipping, or
any other use of tobacco products.
Revised: June 2, 2014
Due Process: Hearings and Appeals
The following procedures are to be followed when hearings are requested:




Right of Appeal: Due process procedures afford students and their
parents/guardians the opportunity to an appeal which shall be scheduled as
soon as possible after the request is received.
Information: The student requesting a hearing shall also file with the
superintendent or hearing officer any information, witnesses, or statements
they wish considered at the hearing,
Attendance: The hearing may be attended only by the hearing committee,
principal, superintendent, student, parents/guardians, and legal counsel.
Witnesses are to be present only when giving information. Students may be
excluded at the discretion of the hearing committee with the concurrence of
the parents when the student’s psychological or emotional problems are
discussed. No one may be present during the hearing committee’s
deliberation.
Student Testimony: Students may speak in their own defense, may be
questioned on personal testimony, and/or may choose not to testify.
Student and Parent Grievance Procedure
Students or parents/guardians wishing to appeal a disciplinary decision should
contact the principal, assistant principal or DCS Hearing Officer (336-249-8181 or at
P.O. Box 2057,
Lexington, NC 27293).
AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) Notification
As mandated by federal regulations, public schools were to have each of their school
buildings inspected for asbestos, and a plan of managing asbestos that was detected
was to be filed with the North Carolina Department of Human Resources, Division
of Health Services, Raleigh, NC by May 9, 1989. Davidson County Schools
complied with this mandate.
The Davidson County Board of County Commissioners hired a certified and
accredited firm to conduct inspections of public school buildings. A thorough
inspection of all schools has been completed and a written plan for the management
of any detected asbestos is in place. Those management plans are on file at each
school and the administrative office.
Necessary measures have been taken to repair or to remove any damaged asbestos,
and the management plans outline the ongoing maintenance program at each
location.
It is also required that at least once every six months after a management plan is in
effect, each LEA shall conduct periodic surveillance in each building that it owns,
record any changes in the condition of the materials, and make those records a part
of the management plan. Those requirements have been met by the Davidson
County Schools.
It is further required that every three years after a management plan is in effect, each
LEA shall conduct a thorough reinspection of every building for the presence of
asbestos. Those requirements have also been met by the Davidson County Schools.
Anti-Discrimination Policy
The Davidson County Board of Education believes all students and employees
should be free of unlawful discrimination, bullying and harassment, including sexual
harassment, as part of safe, orderly, and inviting learning/working environments. The
Board is committed to nondiscrimination in all educational and employment
activities and expressly prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment on the
basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, religion, veteran status, age or
disability. The Board prohibits retaliation against a student or employee exercising
rights made available through state or federal law and also prohibits retaliation for
reporting such violations. Policy violation is serious; appropriate action will be
taken, including suspension (for students) and termination (for employees).
Title IX coordinator: Dr. Tony Peele, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources
Section 504/ADA Coordinator: Lorrie Varner
Davidson County Schools ~ P.O. Box 2057, Lexington, NC 27293 ~ Telephone:
336-249-8182
All school board policies are available on the DCS Web site:
www.davidson.k12.nc.us. Questions may be directed to the DCS Office of Public
Information 336-249-8181.