PLATO R-V
Middle School and High School
STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Plato R-V
10645 Plato Drive
P.O. Box A
Plato, Missouri 65552-0010
High School Telephone (417) 458-4980
Fax (417) 458-4706
Mr. Dan Chappell, Superintendent
Mr. Justin Copley, K-5 Principal
Mrs. Karissa McNiel, 6-12 Principal
Mrs. Stacy Fletcher, Assistant 6-12 Principal;
Director of Instructional Programs
This handbook is designed to be a guide for parents, students and
faculty members whose responsibility lies in reading and
understanding the rules and regulations set forth by the Plato
School Board policy and Missouri State law.
No handbook is inclusive. Situations often arise for which there is
no written policy available. These situations are handled, by those
responsible, in a way to be most beneficial to the student’s well
being.
Parents, students, and faculty are responsible for knowing the
regulations set forth in this handbook, which are taken from
Missouri State law or Plato School Board policy.
1
WELCOME
Welcome to the 2014-2015 school year. On behalf of the faculty
and staff, we would like to start the year by sharing our belief that
together we can make this a successful year for every student in the
district.
A very important part of being successful is opening
communication between the school and home. This is your child’s
education. If you find throughout the year that you have a question,
please feel free to contact the school.
We are looking forward to an exciting year and will always work
with your child’s academic, social, and emotional growth as the
basis of our decisions. Together, we can make this a great year for
the children in the Plato District.
Karissa McNiel
Principal Grades 6–12
High School Office
Hours: 7:45 a.m.–3:45 p.m.
Phone: 417-458-4980
Fax: 417-458-4706
Email: kmcniel@plato.k12.mo.us
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Handbook Opening
Welcome
Table of Contents
Mission Statement
Board of Education
Faculty and Staff
High School Bell Schedule
Middle School Bell Schedule
High School Policies
A+ Program
Absences
Attendance Policy
Academic Awards
Academics
Activity Calendar
ACT Requirement for Juniors
Advisor/Advisee
Assemblies
Athletic Awards and Letters
Authority of School Personnel
Automobile Parking
Care of School Property
Career Days
Chain of Communication
Check-Out Procedures
Class Rank
Clubs and Organizations
Commencement
Compulsory Attendance
Conduct at School Sponsored Activities
Correspondence Courses
Cumulative Records
Cyberbullying
3
1
2
3
6
6
6
9
10
61
11
11
77
47
74
49
70
76
76
15
37
15
67
15
34
54
72
68
14
16
59
69
43
Departmental Awards
Discipline
Disciplinary Actions
District MAP Testing
Dropping Classes
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
Exceptional Child Education Cooperative
Fundraisers
Fire, Earthquake, and Tornado Procedures
General School Rules
Good Attendance Incentive Policy
Grading
Graduation Activity Requirements
Graduation Eligibility
Hall Passes
Homework
Honor Roll
Immunization Law
Inclement Weather
Instructional Services
Internet
Internship Program/Off Campus
Inter-School Contests and Activities
Lost and Found
Make-Up Work
Meals Program
Medicine Policy, Sickness or Accident at School
Middle School Academic Intervention
Middle School Positive Behavior Activities
Middle School Missing Assignment Procedure
Middle School S.O.A.R. Program
Office Internship
Parent/Teacher Organization
Perfect Attendance
Records and Transcripts
4
77
17
19
49
66
66
47
74
38
38
15
35
57
53
45
35
68
39
42
48
43
60
71
42
69
41
40
49
50
36
51
59
41
77
68
Retention
Safe Schools Act
Salutatorian
School Detention & Saturday School
School Insurance
School Library
School Lockers
School Pictures
Search and Seizure
Semester/Quarter Finals Exemption
Show-Me Standards
Special Events
Special Services
Student Activities
Student Council
Student Suspension
Summer School
Telephone Calls
Textbooks
Valedictorian
Visitors
Vocational Technical School
Vocational Student Grades and Attendance
No Child Left Behind Act
Nondiscrimination Statement
Notice of Designation of Directory Information
Public Notice
Standard Complaint Resolution Procedure
5
52
16
57
32
42
43
44
41
44
64
77
74
46
70
70
33
13
42
45
56
45
57
58
88
87
84
85
84
PLATO R-V MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Plato R-V School District, in a cooperative
effort with parents, students, and community, is to provide a
quality, comprehensive education that will enable all students to
become life-long learners and productive, informed citizens.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Dewayne Baker
President
Doug Caldwell
Vice-President
Penny Morrison
Secretary
Kim Hodges
Treasurer
Darrell Thomas
Member
Robert Crabtree
Member
David Hall
Member
FACULTY
High School
Karissa McNiel
Stacy Fletcher
Rick Supancic
Maggie Abrams
Lindsay Aguilar
Diane Atterberry
Don Atterberry
Diana Baker
John Branstetter
Principal
Assistant Principal/Director of Instructional Programs
Athletic Director/History
English
Para-Professional
History
Counselor
Special Education
Agriculture
6
Sara Collins
Lincoln Eldridge
Bonnie Hunter
Melissa Keziah
Kim Kosmicke
Lea Ann LeMoine
David Lewis
Rich Mueller
Megan Pimentel
Ryan Pimentel
Yvonne Reck
Christy Rinear
Jeff Sadler
Frieda Smith
Brandon Snow
Laura Steinbrink
Marilyn Stewart
Dawn Sprouse
Donetta Wakefield
Mark Vaughan
Librarian
Vocal Music/Band
English, Drama, Speech
Nurse
Math
Secretary
Spanish Facilitator
Science
Business
Physical Education
Art
Special Education Coordinator
Science
Alternative School
Math
English/Yearbook
Para-Professional
Science
Physical Education/Health
Physical Education
Middle School
Karissa McNiel
Stacy Fletcher
Maggie Abrams
Don Atterberry
John Branstetter
Nancy Davis
Lincoln Eldridge
Clint Gazette
Tabby Hall
Anita Hurley
Mandy Johnson
Melissa Keziah
Lea Ann LeMoine
David Lewis
Rich Mueller
Nathan O’Donnell
Megan Pimentel
Ryan Pimentel
Principal
Assistant Principal/Director of Instructional Programs
English
Counselor
Agriculture Education
Science/Math
Band/Music
Social Studies
Para-Professional
Math
Communication Arts
Nurse
Secretary
Computers
Science
Music
Computers
Physical Education/Health
7
Yvonne Reck
Christy Rinear
Brandon Snow
Donetta Wakefield
Art
Special Education/Special Education Coordinator
Math
Physical Education/Health
BUS DRIVERS
Rusty Hodges–Bus Mechanic
Lawrence Chatman
Ralph McComas
Mark Petty
Donald Atterberry
Renee McComas
Amy Hart
Leonard Niebruegge
Jane Lear
CUSTODIANS
Lyle Cantrell
Carl Tate
Chris Hathaway
Alan Russell
Leon Rinear
COOKS
Connie Cook
Debbie Spitler
Nancy Hillme
Janet Clark
8
Sharon McCoy
HIGH SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE
2014-2015
First Bell
8:00
First Hour
8:05 – 8:54
Advisor/Advisee
8:58 – 9:28
9:32 – 10:22
Second Hour
Third Hour
10:26 – 11:16
Fourth Hour
11:20 – 12:10
Lunch
12:10 – 12:38
Fifth Hour
12:42 – 1:34
Sixth Hour
1:38 – 2:30
Seventh Hour
2:34 – 3:26
9
MIDDLE SCHOOL BELL SCHEDULE
2014-2015
First Bell
8:00
First Hour
8:05 – 8:54
Advisor/Advisee
8:58 – 9:28
9:32 – 10:22
Second Hour
Third Hour
10:26 – 11:12
Lunch
11:14 - 11:42
Fourth Hour
11:46 – 12:38
Fifth Hour
12:42 – 1:34
Sixth Hour
1:38 – 2:30
Seventh Hour
2:34 – 3:26
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HIGH SCHOOL POLICIES
ABSENCES
When a student is absent, the parents/guardians will need to call
the high school office (458-4980) by 9:00 a.m. If the office is not
contacted, school personnel will contact parents/guardians. In this
matter, the concern of the school is every student’s well being.
Being absent over 15 minutes of the period will result in a recorded
absence for that period. In the event that a student will be absent
for more than eight days due to medical reasons please contact the
school as soon as circumstances are known.
Upon a student’s return to school following an absence, an admit
slip must be obtained from the office before attending class.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are allowed eight days (or eight hours in any one class) of
absences per semester. There is not any defined excused absence.
Students who are absent for more than eight days (or eight hours in
any one class) per semester will be required to attend Saturday
School or after-school tutoring for the equivalent time missed after
the eight allowable absences per semester. Upon the ninth absence
in any one class by the student, his or her parents and/or legal
guardian shall be notified that the student will need to make up any
hours over the 8 hours allowed by attending Saturday School or
after-school tutoring. Saturday Schools are from 9:00-12:00 and
equal 1 full day (7 hours) of make-up-time. After-school tutoring
is from 3:30 to 4:30 and equal one hour of make-up time. Upon
this notification, the parents/legal guardians will have the option to
choose either Saturday School or after-school tutoring for their
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child. All credit for the classes affected by the attendance violation
will be withheld until completion of the Saturday School
assignment or after-school tutoring.
Upon the ninth absence in any one class, the Juvenile Office may
be contacted regarding excessive absenteeism.
Any student who misses ten consecutive days (without having
extenuating circumstances, i.e., family emergency or illness) may
be dropped from active enrollment.
Students attending Vo-Tech and/or students participating in
extra-curricular activities must have excessive absences
(absences over 8 hours in any one class) made up before being
allowed to participate in the next activity, event, competition,
or attend Vo-Tech courses the following semester. Students will
be provided regularly scheduled Saturday School(s) prior to
participation restriction.
Absences by a student exceeding eight days (or eight hours in any
one class) in one semester and not made up in Saturday School or
after-school tutoring shall cause the student to be notified of
placement in Summer School. The guidelines for placement in
summer school are as follows:
If Saturday School(s) or after-school tutoring have not been
completed after the eight allowable absences per semester have
been exceeded, the student will be assigned one day of
Summer School for each absence over the eight-day allowance
per semester.
Students must attend all assigned Summer School classes and
maintain appropriate behavior standards. Any student, who
does not properly complete a Summer School assignment, will
not earn credit for classes affected by the attendance violation.
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After notification of Saturday School assignment, after-school
tutoring, or later Summer School assignment, the student, his/her
parent or legal guardian may file an appeal in writing within five
(5) days of the notice with the appropriate principal. Upon receipt
of the appeal request, the Appeals Committee shall then set a
hearing date for the purpose of consideration of the applicant’s
appeal. This committee shall consist of:
6-12 Principal
Elementary Principal
Counselor
High School Teacher
Jr. High Teacher
Elementary Teacher
Students who transfer from other schools will have absences
transferred and applied to the attendance policy of Plato Schools.
Out-of-school suspensions will not count against the eight
allowable absences but no schoolwork during the suspension
period will be allowed to be made up unless the student attends
Saturday School for the equivalent time missed due to the
suspension. The suspended student is responsible for any and all
educational information given by the teachers during the
suspension period.
Seniors must make up all excessive absences before graduation or
they will not be permitted to participate in graduation exercises.
Extenuating circumstances may be presented to the Appeals
Committee for possible Summer School attendance. Diplomas will
not be awarded until all attendance requirements are met.
SUMMER SCHOOL
The Plato School District does not always administer a summer
school session. For students who would like to attend summer
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school, there are area districts that offer summer school courses.
Plato students can enroll in courses offered at other institutions for
summer school (resident requirements typically do not apply) but it
is the parents responsibility to complete enrollment and provide
transportation.
COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE
Parents are ultimately responsible for the regular attendance of
their child. The following state laws pertain to compulsory
attendance:
7.167.031 SCHOOL ATTENDANCE COMPULSORY – WHO
MAY BE EXCUSED
Every parent, guardian, or other person in this state having charge,
control or custody of a child between the ages of seven (7) and
seventeen (17) years shall cause the child to attend regularly.
8.167.061 PENALTY FOR VIOLATING ATTENDANCE LAW
SUSPENDED
Any parent, guardian, or other person having charge, control or
custody of a child who violates the provisions of section 167.061 is
guilty of misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of not less than ten
or more than twenty-five dollars or by imprisonment in the county
jail for not less than two or more than ten days.
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GOOD ATTENDANCE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Grades 6-12
Any student who misses 2 hours or less in any one class AND has
absences of 14 hours or less during the semester will be exempt
from comprehensive semester finals in any class in which the
student has a 70% or above (with the exception of dual enrollment
classes where college credit is being earned).
AUTHORITY OF SCHOOL PERSONNEL
The authority of the school extends to, but is not limited to, the
following areas:
1. All physical property owned by the Plato R-V School
(including lockers).
2. All school owned vehicles and bus stops.
3. Students attending school sponsored activities.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students are responsible for the care and condition of school
property assigned to them. Lost or damaged books and sports
uniforms are charged to students and must be paid for before
students will be allowed to participate in any other extra-curricular
activities.
CHAIN OF COMMUNICATION
The procedure for students/parents to discuss pertinent school
issues follows the chain of command in the following order:
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Teacher, Principal, Superintendent, and School Board. It is
important that we all follow this chain of command so that the
individuals most closely associated and most knowledgeable about
an issue can be involved in the resolution. Many parental
questions are easily and completely answered by communicating
directly with the teacher involved with the classroom or
extracurricular activity. The easiest way to communicate would be
by email (Email format: first initial last name @ plato.k12.mo.us).
A phone call would be the next preferable way to communicate.
CONDUCT AT SCHOOL SPONSORED
ACTIVITIES
Supervision of students attending activities at school or on a trip to
another school is the responsibility of parents and school officials.
All policies will apply to school sponsored, after-school activities.
Good conduct and attention by the audience at any activity is
important to the people performing.
SAFE SCHOOLS ACT
The Student Handbook follows guidelines provided by House Bill
1301, “Safe Schools Act.” This bill made several changes
regarding school safety and the reporting requirements of juvenile
officers and school officials.
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DISCIPLINE
The policy book for the Plato R-V School District sets forth all
policies pertaining to discipline in the Plato Jr. /Sr. High School.
This policy book assures a safe, orderly environment where
teachers can teach and students can learn. It strives to be fair and
consistent when dealing with student behavior. We must all share
the responsibility for creating and supporting a positive school
environment, therefore, the responsibility for discipline lies with
all of us—parents/guardians, educators, administrators, staff,
students, and board members.
Parents/legal guardians will be notified if disciplinary action
requires student suspension.
The following rights apply to our discipline procedures:
Teachers have a right to:
1.
A classroom and school that provides the optimal learning
environment.
2.
Determine and request appropriate behavior from students.
3.
Ask help from parents, administrators, and other school
personnel when assistance is needed.
Students have a right to:
1.
Enjoy a classroom and school with an atmosphere
conducive to learning.
2.
Have teachers who provide positive support for appropriate
behavior.
3.
Have teachers who will help him/her with inappropriate
behavior.
All employees of the Plato R-V School District are responsible for
enforcement of this discipline policy. In all cases, discipline will be
administered on an individual basis with the merits of each
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situation carefully considered. Parents or guardians will be
informed when the principal takes a disciplinary action.
Any student who interferes with the rights of another student by
disruption of the learning atmosphere of the classroom may expect
to be disciplined. The following procedures may take place.
The standards of conduct used in classrooms shall include types of
procedures used in case of violation of the standards of conduct.
These procedures may include:
A. Sending the student out of class to the principal for a
“cooling off” period.
B. Hold a conference with the student to help resolve the
matter.
C. Arrange a conference with the student and his/her parents.
D. Loss of privileges.
E. Referral to the principal for disciplinary action.
Any student who is referred to the principal for disrupting
classroom activities may:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Have privileges restricted.
Be excluded from any school activity.
Be subject to detention or academic reassignment.
Be suspended from school.
Require supervision from a parent at school.
Actions will depend on the previous conduct of the student and the
severity of the offense.
Due Process: In any disciplinary situation, the rights of the student
will be considered. Any student who is suspended from school
shall be notified, in writing, as to the reasons for the suspension.
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The suspension may be appealed to the superintendent of schools
and the board of education.
STUDENTS
Disciplinary Actions
Behavioral Expectations
The discipline code set out in this regulation is intended to be
illustrative but not an exclusive listing of acts of misconduct and
the consequences for each. Misconduct, which is not specifically
listed in this regulation, may be deemed to warrant discipline up to
and including expulsion following provision of all due process
procedures. In addition, the disciplinary consequence listed for
each offense may be increased or decreased by the administration
or the board of education due to mitigating or aggravating
circumstances.
Copies of this regulation will be provided to each student at the
beginning of each school year. Copies of this document will also
be available for public inspection during normal business hours in
the superintendent’s office.
1. Possession of or attendance after consumption of any
unauthorized prescription drug, narcotic substance,
counterfeit drugs or drug-related paraphernalia.
First Offense: 10-180 days of out-of-school suspension,
notification to law enforcement officials, and
documentation in student’s discipline record.
19
Subsequent Offense: Expulsion, notification to law
enforcement officials, and documentation in student’s
discipline record.
2. Sale, purchase, or distribution of any prescription drug,
alcohol, narcotic substance, counterfeit drugs and/or drugrelated paraphernalia.
First Offense: 10-180 days of out-of-school suspension,
notification of law enforcement officials and
documentation in student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: Expulsion, notification to law
enforcement officials, and documentation in student’s
discipline record.
3. Assault of Student—Use of physical force with the intent
to do physical harm.
First Offense: 5-180 days of out-of-school suspension or
expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: 11-180 days of out-of-school
suspension or expulsion, notification to law enforcement
officials and documentation in the student’s discipline
record.
4. Assault of Staff Member—Use of physical force with intent
to do bodily harm.
First Offense: 5-180 days of out-of-school suspension, or
expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
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Subsequent Offense: 11-180 days of out-of-school
suspension or expulsion, notification to law enforcement
officials and documentation in the student’s discipline
record.
5. Possession of a Weapon, to include ALL pocket knives—
Defined in Policy 2620.
First Offense: One calendar year suspension or expulsion,
notification to law enforcement officials, documentation in
the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: Expulsion, notification to law
enforcement officials and documentation in the student’s
discipline record.
6. Possession of or consumption of alcohol.
First Offense: 10-180 days of out-of-school suspension,
notification of law enforcement officials and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: Expulsion, notification to law
enforcement officials, and documentation in the student’s
discipline record.
7. Arson—Intentionally causing or attempting to cause a fire
or an explosion.
First Offense: 11-180 days of out-of-school suspension,
notification to law enforcement officials, and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
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Subsequent Offense: Expulsion, notification to law
enforcement officials, and documentation in the student’s
discipline record.
7.5 Fireworks/Stink bombs—Possession of or use of
fireworks/stink bombs.
First Offense: 1-3 days out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 5-10 days out-of-school suspension.
8. Sexual Harassment—Physical touching of another student
in the area of the breasts, buttocks, or genitals. This
includes intentional or unintentional removal of another
student’s clothing.
First Offense: 3 days of out-of-school suspension,
documentation in the student’s discipline record, and
contact parents/guardians.
Subsequent Offense: 5-180 days out-of-school suspension,
documentation in the student’s discipline record, and
contact parents/guardians.
9. Sexual Harassment—Use of sexually intimidating or
suggestive language about body, clothing, or
undergarments, objects, or pictures.
First Offense: 3 days of out-of-school suspension,
documentation in the student’s discipline record and
contact parents/guardians.
Subsequent Offense: 5-180 days of out-of-school
suspension, documentation in the student’s discipline
record and contact parents/guardians.
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10. Threatening Language—Use of verbal threats to do bodily
harm.
First Offense: 3-180 days of out-of-school suspension,
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: Expulsion, notification to law
enforcement officials and documentation in the student’s
discipline record.
11. Extortion—Verbal threats or physical conduct designed to
obtain money or other valuables.
First Offense: 3-5 days of out-of-school suspension,
notification to law enforcement officials, and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: 5-10 days of out-of-school
suspension, notification to law enforcement officials, and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
12. Fighting—Physically striking another in mutual contact as
differentiated from assault.
First Offense: 1-10 days of out-of-school suspension,
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: 10-180 days of out-of-school
suspension, documentation in the student’s discipline
record.
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13. Disruptive Behavior—Conduct that has intentional effect of
disturbing educational process in the classroom.
First Offense: Removed for the remainder of the hour
and/or detention or academic reassignment.
Subsequent Offense: Principal/Teacher/Student/Parent
conference and/or detention or academic reassignment.
14. Theft—Non-consensual taking or attempt to take the
property of another.
First Offense: 3-5 days of out-of-school suspension,
notification to law enforcement officials, and
documentation in the student’s discipline record.
Subsequent Offense: 10 days of out-of-school suspension
and documentation in the student’s discipline record.
15. Vandalism—Intentional damage or attempt to damage
property belonging to staff, students, or district.
First Offense: Complete restitution for damaged property
and 1-5 days of out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: Complete restitution for damaged
property and 5-10 days of out-of school suspension.
16. Truancy—Absent or tardy from class or classes without
authorization.
First Offense: Truant time will be counted as absent and
time will be made up in detention(s) or Saturday School(s).
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Subsequent Offense: Truant time will be doubled, counted
as absent, and time will be made up in detention(s) or
Saturday School(s).
17. Defiance of Authority—Refusal to obey directions or
defiance of staff authority.
First Offense: 1-5 days of out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 5-10 days of out-of-school suspension.
18. Improper Displays of Affection—Consensual kissing,
fondling, or embracing.
First Offense: Principal/Student conference and/or
detention.
Subsequent Offense: Additional detentions, academic
reassignment and/or suspension.
19. Indecent Exposure/Pornographic Material—Includes
display in public location of buttocks and/or genitals, as
well as suggestive/explicit language.
First Offense: 3-5 days of out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 5-10 days of out-of-school
suspension.
20. Use of Obscene or Vulgar Language—Language that
depicts sexual acts, human waste, and blasphemous
language.
First Offense: After school detention(s), academic
reassignment or Saturday School.
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Subsequent Offense: 1-3 days of out-of-school suspension.
21. Use of Obscene or Vulgar Language or Gestures directed at
a staff member.
First Offense: 3-5 days out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 5-10 days of out-of-school suspension.
22. Possession or use of any tobacco products on school
grounds, bus or at any school activity.
First Offense: Detention(s), Saturday School or academic
reassignment.
Subsequent Offense: 2 days of out-of-school suspension.
23. Disruptive Speech or Conduct—Use of hate language to
demean other persons due to the race, gender, disability,
natural origin, or religious beliefs. This provision also
includes conduct, verbal, written, or symbolic speech,
which materially and substantially disrupts class, school
activities, transportation, or school functions.
First Offense: Principal/Student conference and/or 1-3 days
out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 5 days of out-of-school suspension.
24. Bus Misconduct—Any offense committed by a student on a
district-owned or contracted bus shall be punished in the
same manner as if the offense had been committed at the
student’s assigned school. In addition, bus-riding privileges
may be suspended or revoked. Beginning a new semester,
26
all students may ride the bus with the following rules
applying.
Offense
1st Offense
2nd Offense
3rd Offense
Misconduct/disruptive
behavior, devices, etc.
Remain seated, facing
forward (not on knees).
Academic
Reassignment
(1-4 days)
Insubordination/willful
disobedience.
Bus
suspension
from all
buses for 5
days.
Bus
suspension
from all buses
for the rest of
the semester.
Lewd/obscene materials.
Profanity, degrading
language/gestures.
25. Hazing or initiation of underclassmen to harass by
exacting unnecessary or disagreeable work.
First Offense: Saturday School or 1-3 days of out-of-school
suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 3-5 days of out-of-school suspension.
26. False Alarms—Tampering with emergency equipment,
setting off false alarms, or making false reports.
First Offense: 1-5 days of out-of-school suspension.
Second Offense: 5-10 days of out-of-school suspension.
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27. Dress Code and Grooming—We support the right of
parents/guardians to exercise their responsibilities in
determining proper dress and grooming for their child.
However, school clothing should be appropriate as to the
time, place, and weather. In addition, wearing of apparel
that disrupts the classroom will not be considered
appropriate. Shoes or sandals must be worn at all times.
Clothing that advertises tobacco, alcoholic beverages, or
obscenities will not be worn to school. Chains, cables,
trench coats, tank tops, baggy pants, spaghetti strap shirts,
or midriff shirts are not allowed to be worn at school. (If a
student sitting in a chair, raises one hand, and any part of
the stomach is shown, the shirt is considered a midriff
shirt.) Seamed sleeveless shirts that reach the outside of
the shoulder will be allowed. No undergarments or
cleavage will be shown. Shorts and skirts will be mid-thigh
in length. Any student wearing shorts or skirts higher than
mid-thigh in length will be asked to change clothes.
Leggings are permissible as long as a long shirt is worn
which completely covers hips and touches the thighs.
Clothing with rips or tears in inappropriate areas will not be
allowed. Any student wearing jeans with holes above midthigh level will be required to place duct tape over the holes
or change clothes. No blankets are allowed in classrooms.
First Offense: Correct immediately and/or suspension.
Subsequent Offense: Out-of-school suspension.
28. Tardies—If a student is late for school or class, he/she is
counted tardy. When the bell begins to ring, students must
be seated and prepared with a pencil/pen, paper, and other
appropriate materials. A late bus will be considered as an
excused tardy and not counted against the student. All
other reasons will be considered an unexcused tardy. On
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the sixth tardy in one quarter, a student will be given one
(1) after-school detention. For subsequent tardy violations
(six tardies), a student will be given additional detention(s)
directly related to the offense number (Second offense will
equal two detentions, third offense will equal three
detentions, etc.).
29. Plagiarism/Cheating: Plagiarism/Cheating is prohibited.
Teachers have the authority to address situations within
their classrooms involving plagiarism/cheating. Depending
on the situation, teachers may refer students directly to the
office.
First Offense: Will receive a “0” (zero) on the assignment
and after school detention, Saturday School, or academic
reassignment.
30. Electronic Devices: CD and MP3 Players, DVD players,
handheld game devices or like devices are not to be brought
to school. iPods, iPads, electronic readers or tablets are
only allowed by obtaining prior approval from a teacher, to
be used for the sole purpose of guided curricular
instruction.
First Offense: Confiscation, given back to parents.
Subsequent Offense: Confiscation, device will be kept until
the end of the semester.
31. Cell Phones/Cameras– Developments in cell phone
technology in recent years have resulted in enhanced
communication opportunities. However, the use of cell
phones in school poses increasing risks of school
disruptions, bullying, criminal activity, and academic
dishonesty. As a result, student cell-phones will be banned
29
during the instructional day, as well as in dressing areas
during extracurricular activities. Violation of this policy
will result in academic reassignment.
Parents may apply to the building principal to obtain a
hardship exception. In such cases, the student’s cell phone
must be retained in the principal’s office. Students granted
a hardship may visit the office to use their cell phone for
approved purposes. Telephones are also available in school
offices for parents to contact their student for legitimate
reasons.
First Offense: 1-3 days of academic reassignment.
Subsequent Offense: 1-3 days academic reassignment.
32. Vo-Tech Students Driving Permission—Students must
have written permission or a phone call from a parent
giving the reason and date in which the student needs to
drive. Students must also obtain a driving pass from the
Plato R-V School District before being allowed to drive on
that date. Written permission forms must be turned in to the
high school office before the date that the student will
drive. Students who have permission to drive will not be
permitted to let other students ride with them. In the case
that this should happen, the driver and the passenger(s) will
be disciplined as if the appropriate permission
documentation had not been obtained.
Penalty of driving without such documents are as follows:
First Offense: Saturday School or academic reassignment.
Future driving requests will be denied.
Subsequent Offense: 1-5 days of out-of-school suspension.
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33. Parking in Restricted Areas/Driving Recklessly on School
Grounds.
First Offense: After-school detention, Saturday School,
academic reassignment or banned from driving on school
grounds.
Subsequent Offenses: Banned from driving on school
grounds.
34. Over-the-counter medicine. The possession, sale, and/or
distribution of any medicine supplement is restricted on any
school property. All over-the-counter/supplement medicine
(i.e. Tylenol, Midol, Antihistamine, and/or similar product)
needs to be turned in by the start of the school day to the
school nurse.
First Offense: Warning to 3 days out-of-school suspension.
Subsequent Offense: 3-5 days out-of-school suspension.
35. Showing disrespect through one’s speech or actions.
First Offense: Student/Principal conference, and/or
detention or academic reassignment.
Second Offense: Detention to correspond with the offense
number (i.e. second offense equals two hours of detention,
third offense equals three hours and so on).
36. Wearing hats or caps to school. Although students may
wear hats or caps to school, they are not allowed to wear
them in buildings unless for athletic events or for use in the
Agriculture building. Sock caps and hoods may be worn
weather permitting but, not to be worn in buildings.
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Scarves, bandanas, belts, or beanies may not be worn as a
cap.
First Offense: Confiscation, given back at the end of the
day.
Second Offense: Confiscation, given back to parents.
37. Bullying: Intentional intimidation or infliction of physical,
emotional, or mental harm.
First Offense: 10-30 days out-of-school suspension
Subsequent Offense: 180 days of out-school-suspension or
expulsion.
38. Leaving school grounds at lunch and/or going to
unauthorized locations on campus.
First Offense: Detention
Subsequent Offense: Academic Reassignment or Saturday
School.
SCHOOL DETENTION & SATURDAY SCHOOL
Students will bring work or reading material that can be
accomplished independently and quietly. Students will not be
allowed to consume food or drink in detention or Saturday School.
Students will not be allowed games, radios, televisions, or any
other electronic devices. Computer use is not allowed during after
school detention or Saturday School.
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Students will not speak to other students or carry on conversations
with the teacher. Any violation of rules will result in an additional
detention or suspension. Students will be given an individual
restroom break during the session. Parents must provide
transportation to and from Saturday School, and must pick up
students immediately following the conclusion of after school
detention and Saturday School sessions.
STUDENT SUSPENSION
Suspension is the exclusion of a pupil's attendance at school and
school-related activities. For conduct prejudicial to good order and
discipline in the school or which tends to impair the moral or good
conduct of pupils, the school principal may suspend a student for a
period not to exceed ten school days.
The student shall be given a written or oral explanation of the
charges against him/her.
If the student denies the charges, he/she shall be given an
explanation of the incident.
The student shall be given the opportunity to present his/her
version of the incident. In the event of a suspension for more than
ten days, upon giving notice the student may appeal the suspension
to the Board of Education as provided by statute.
Any suspension by a principal shall be reported to the
superintendent. When the presence of the student poses a
continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of
disrupting the academic process, the student may be immediately
removed from school with a notice and hearing to follow as soon
as practical.
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Out-of-school suspensions (OSS) will not count against the
absentee policy but no schoolwork during the suspension period
will be allowed to be made up unless the student attends Saturday
School for the equivalent time missed due to the suspension. The
suspended student is responsible for any and all educational
information given by the teachers during the suspension period.
Any student who is assigned OSS will not be allowed to participate
in any scheduled school activities during the suspension time. In
addition, any student who has accrued an excessive number of
Out-of school suspensions (OSS) will not be allowed to attend
class fieldtrips.
CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES
To help assure that an unauthorized person does not take a child
from the school grounds, parents/guardians must stop at the high
school office to check out a student. Students (including 18 year
olds) may not check themselves out of school regardless of their
age. They must have a parent or guardian call or write a permission
slip. If someone other than the parent/guardian is to pick up a
student, notification to the school by note or a phone call is
required. This provides for the safety of the child and the office
will not give permission if they do not know ahead of time who is
to pick up the student.
Parents must be present to sign out and accompany any student
who leaves campus for lunch.
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GRADING
The grading period for all classes is the quarter (nine weeks). Two
quarters equal one semester. Grade cards will be issued within one
week after the quarter ends.
The following grading scale used by all teachers is as follows:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
4.0
3.67
3.33
3.00
2.67
2.33
2.0
1.67
1.33
1.00
0.67
0.0
95-100
90- 94
87- 89
83- 86
80- 82
77- 79
73- 76
70- 72
67- 69
63- 66
60- 62
59 and below
Progress reports will be sent home to parents through the students
every two weeks (Students attending VoTech can pick up progress
reports in the office). It is recommended that the parents call the
school office and make an appointment to see the teacher during
his/her preparation period if a need arises.
HOMEWORK
The purpose of homework is to reinforce and extend what the
students have learned in class and to develop a sense of selfdiscipline, personal responsibility, and independent thinking.
Parents can help students by providing them a quiet place to work,
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monitor their homework completion, and offer encouragement.
Parents/guardians should never complete a student's homework for
them.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
MISSING ASSIGNMENT PROCEDURE
Academic morning detention (7:50-8:05 a.m.) will be
assigned to students who fail to turn in a completed assignment on
time as well as the student receiving a 25% reduction on the
assignment. If the student completes the missing assignment at
home the night before the morning detention is to be served, the
student will be allowed to turn the assignment in to the morning
detention supervisor upon their arrival to detention and the
detention will be considered as completed. If the missing
assignment is not completed prior to the beginning of the morning
detention, students will be required to work on the missing
assignment during the morning detention. If the assignment is
completed during the morning detention, the student will hand the
assignment in to the morning detention supervisor. The morning
detention supervisor will then submit the completed assignment to
the assigning teacher. If the missing assignment is not completed
during the morning detention, the principal will be notified. The
principal will conference with the student and will also contact the
parent at this time regarding the missing assignment.
In addition to the morning detention assignment when
students fail to turn in an assignment on time, an automatic 25%
reduction will result for that assignment. (i.e., If an assignment is
worth 10 points and the student makes a 100% on the assignment
when turned in, the student will earn 7.5 points out of 10 points
possible.) In addition to the 25% reduction on the specific
assignment, the student’s overall grade in the class will be
temporarily changed to an INCOMPLETE (INC) in the gradebook
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until all missing assignments are turned in. Once all assignments
are turned in, the student’s grade will be recalculated to reflect the
overall grade for the class.
Middle school students will be given ONE late assignment
pass per class, per quarter in which the morning detention will not
be assigned and the 25% reduction will not be assessed to the late
assignment. However, the student will still be required to submit
the completed assignment by the date established between the
teacher and the student once the initial due date has not met.
Upon every fifth missing assignment detention, the student
will be referred to the principal and parents will be contacted
regarding the number of missing assignments for the student.
AUTOMOBILE PARKING
Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of
privilege, not of right. The district retains authority to conduct
routine patrols of student parking lots and inspections of the
exteriors of student automobiles on school property. The school
district may inspect the interiors of student automobiles whenever
a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe illegal or
unauthorized materials are contained inside the automobiles. Such
patrols and inspections may be conducted without notice, without
student consent, and without a search warrant. If a student should
fail to provide access to the interior of their car upon request by a
school official, they will be subject to school disciplinary action.
Students driving to school will park in the parking lot north of the
tennis court. Cars and other vehicles will be left in the parking lot
until the student is dismissed from school.
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The Plato R-V School District has no desire to control the means
of transportation that students use to get to and from school.
However, automobiles or motorcycles driven to school by students
and arriving on the school grounds are not to be driven away from
the school grounds until the close of the school day except by
special permission from the principal or school office. After
arriving at school, students are not to enter any automobile or
motorcycle until the close of the school day or until permission is
granted to leave school. Students who drive recklessly on school
property may have their parking privileges revoked. Students
violating this will be subject to disciplinary action. First offense
will be detention; subsequent offenses will be Academic
Reassignment or Saturday School assignment.
FIRE, EARTHQUAKE AND TORNADO
PROCEDURES
Procedures for safety drills are posted in each room and each
teacher will review them at the beginning of school.
GENERAL SCHOOL RULES
1. Running in the halls is not allowed at any time.
2. Students are not to wear hats in school buildings unless for
athletic events or for use in the Agriculture building.
3. The use of sunflower seeds by a student at school or on the
bus will bring disciplinary action against that student.
4. Large sums of money and other valuables are not to be
brought to school.
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5. Drinks or food are allowed ONLY in the cafeteria. Breakfastto-go is allowed to be eaten only in designated areas. No food
or drink (except for plain water) is allowed in classrooms.
6. Students will be allowed to carry clear, plastic containers for
plain water only. Having or using the water bottle during
class time should not be a disruption. Teachers do have the
authority to restrict the water bottle privilege within their
classroom if the possession or use of the water bottle becomes
a distraction.
7. Laser pointers are prohibited at school.
8. Rules, regulations, and policies of Plato R-V district are to be
followed to ensure a conductive learning environment.
9. Animals/insects are not to be brought to school without
principal approval.
10. Middle School students are not allowed to chew gum.
IMMUNIZATION LAW
The General Assembly of Missouri has enacted legislation making
it unlawful for any child to attend public schools in Missouri
unless they are properly immunized. Any student who is not in
compliance with the immunization law will not be allowed to
attend school. Current copy of immunization record needs to be on
file with the nurse’s office.
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MEDICINE POLICY, SICKNESS, OR ACCIDENT
AT SCHOOL
The full-time employment of a registered nurse provides the Plato
R-V School District an exceptional health program. Any student
who needs help due to an illness or injury should first report to the
high school office. The office personnel will then refer them to the
nurse’s office. The nurse will decide if a parent needs to be
contacted. All medications are to be kept and dispensed by the
nurse, but in the absence of the nurse, a trained staff member will
dispense the medication. The classroom teacher is not to dispense
medication. If a student needs to receive medication during the
day, the original medication container must be presented to the
nurse with a signed medication authorization form signed by the
physician.
The nurse will administer First Aid in case of injury. The district
requires a current telephone number to be on file. Health forms
will be sent home with each student to be filled out and returned
back to school.
Students will be sent home immediately if they have any of the
following: Fever (over 101 degrees), Impetigo, Vomiting,
Diarrhea, Head Lice, Pink Eye, Skin Eruptions and any
Communicable Disease.
Any student sent home with head lice may not return until they are
free of lice and nits. The nurse must check students before being
admitted back to their classroom.
Students who are ill must obtain permission from the principal
before going home.
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MEALS PROGRAM
Forms for free or reduced lunches will be sent home with each
family. Parents may pay daily, weekly, or monthly. Lunch bills are
to be paid in the high school office before the first hour bell rings
or after school. Lunch money will not be accepted between classes
or during lunchtime.
Prices for meals are below.
Breakfast
Lunch
Students/Adults
$1.60/$2.00
$2.25/$2.50
Reduced
$0.30
$0.40
The Plato R-V District is a closed campus. Students are to stay in
the cafeteria, gymnasium, or at the pavilion during the lunch period
until dismissed.
PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
The Plato Parent Teacher Organization meets in the school
cafeteria. To find out information on joining PTO, please contact
the elementary office at (417) 458-4700.
SCHOOL PICTURES
Each year school pictures are taken shortly after the opening of
school. All students should have pictures taken even if they do not
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plan to purchase them. This allows the school annual to be
complete.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
In the event that school is closed or delayed due to inclement
weather, the district’s emergency notification system will call
parents and guardians to announce late start or closure information.
Announcement of school closing will also be placed with
Springfield television stations 3, 10, 27, and 33, and listed on local
radio stations KJPW (Waynesville), KUNQ (Houston), KJEL
(Lebanon), and KCMG (Mountain Grove).
LOST AND FOUND
The lost and found articles are kept in the principal’s office.
Report all lost items to the office.
SCHOOL INSURANCE
The school does not sell insurance. However, insurance is made
available to all students. An insurance pamphlet will be sent home
with each family at the beginning of each school year.
TELEPHONE CALLS
With permission, students may use the phone in the high school
office between 7:45-3:32. Use of school phones without
permission may result in detention. No cell phones will be
allowed. Phone use should be between classes, lunch, or
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before/after school. Students must receive signed permission from
teachers before coming to the office to use the telephone. The
school assumes no responsibility for any lost/stolen electronic
devices, including cell phones, ipods, ipads, MP3 players, portable
DVD players, e-readers, cameras, etc.
SCHOOL LIBRARY
A school library is maintained for use by all students. Regulations
for library use are posted in the library. When visiting the library
during class time, students must have a pass & sign in with the
librarian. The librarian will be present to assist any students that
may need help. At the end of each quarter students will be required
to replace lost library books or reimburse the school for the cost of
the book.
INTERNET
Use of the computers for internet purposes requires written parent
permission. Internet forms will be sent home at the beginning of
each school year with each student for parents and students to read,
sign, and return.
CYBER-BULLYING
Cyber-bullying is defined as bullying via the use of the Internet,
interactive and digital technologies (such as computers, PDAs,
etc.) and/or mobile telephones. The use of any school computer or
electronic device for the purpose of cyber-bullying is strictly
prohibited. Cyber-bullying using home-based or off-campus
devices that results in a material and/or substantial disruption to the
43
school and/or a true threat will constitute grounds for investigation
as to whether or not the use violates applicable law or school rules.
Should misuse be determined, the student may receive disciplinary
consequences appropriate for the frequency and severity of the
violation. We encourage students and parents to notify the middle
school/high school office of any incidents regarding bullying
immediately.
SCHOOL LOCKERS
A locker will be assigned to each student at the beginning of the
school year. The lockers are the property of the Plato R-V School
District and are subject to inspection by authorized school
personnel. The school is not responsible for stolen items. Students
may bring locks for their assigned locker but must provide an extra
key or the combination to the lock. Students are not to use lockers
that are not assigned to them.




Student lockers are the property of the school district.
Student lockers remain at all times under the control of the
school district.
Students are to assume full responsibility for their lockers.
The school district retains the right to inspect a student’s
locker for any reason at any time without notice, without
student consent, and without a search warrant.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
Students or student property may be searched based on reasonable
suspicion of a violation of district rules, policy or state law.
Reasonable suspicion must be based on facts known to the
administration, credible information provided or reasonable
44
inference drawn from such facts or information. The privacy and
dignity of students shall be respected. Searches shall be carried out
in the presence of adult witnesses, if such witnesses are available.
Students may be asked to empty pockets, remove jackets, coats,
shoes and other articles of exterior clothing for examination if
reasonable under the circumstances. However, no strip searches
are to be conducted.
TEXTBOOKS
All basic textbooks are loaned to students for their use during the
school year. Only when the books are damaged or lost is there a
fine for their use. The textbooks are the student's responsibility and
should be kept clean and handled carefully.
VISITORS
Parents and citizens of our community are always welcome in our
school. School-age visitors are not allowed during school hours.
All visitors will report to the office before going to the classrooms.
For security and safety measures, visitors must report to the office
for a visitor pass before going to the classroom.
HALL PASSES
Any student in the halls during the class period shall have in their
possession a hall pass issued by the classroom teacher, counselor,
or office personnel listing the time and destination. It is the
responsibility of the STUDENT and TEACHER to make sure a
hall pass is obtained before a student leaves the classroom.
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SPECIAL SERVICES
A. Pupil Personnel Services:
The guidance department is composed of a full-time counselor
for students in grades 6-12. The guidance department
administers the standardized testing programs that are required
and recommended by the state. The counselor also helps
students with their personal, school, and scheduling problems
and assists students in furthering their education and
determining or clarifying their career goals.
B. Special Education:
Special Education is part of the education program of the Plato
Junior/Senior High School, where services are provided for
students who have been diagnosed as Intellectually Disabled,
Learning Disabled, or Other Health Impaired.
C. Section 504
504 Public Notice
The Plato R-V School District assures that it will provide a free
appropriate public education (FAPE) to each qualified disabled
person in the District’s jurisdiction regardless of the nature or
severity of the person’s disability. For purposes of Section 504
of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the provision of an
appropriate education is the provision of regular or special
education and related aids and services that (i) are designed to
meet individual and educational needs of disabled persons as
adequately as the needs of non-disabled persons are met and
(ii) are based on adherence to procedures that satisfy the
requirements of the 504 federal regulations
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For questions regarding Section 504 or a 504 referral, contact
Christy Rinear, Section 504 Coordinator, Monday – Friday
from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at 417-458-4980.
EXCEPTIONAL CHILD EDUCATION
COOPERATIVE
With the passage of Missouri House Bill 474 of 1973 and Public
Law 94-142, "The Education for All Handicapped Children Act of
1975," each school district is responsible for providing an
appropriate educational service to all handicapped and/or severely
handicapped children and youth.
ACADEMICS
Classification of students:
This is only a guideline. As long as it is possible for a student to
graduate with his/her class, he/she will be considered in that class.
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Successfully completed 8th grade in an accredited school
6 academic units of credit earned
12 academic units of credit earned
17 academic units of credit earned
The attendance requirements for Plato High School shall be eight
(8) semesters. This requirement may be waived if the following
special requirements are completed:
1. A minimum of twenty-six (26) units have been completed. (See
Requirements page.)
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2. A minimum of seven (7) semesters have been completed.
3. A special need as defined by the principal and superintendent
has been established.
4. Enrollment in college, vocational school, on-the-job training,
or military service for the remainder of the eighth (8) semester.
These will be closely monitored with weekly reports (pay
stubs, class records, etc.) Failure to follow these requirements
will result in termination of the eighth semester avoidance.
INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES
Evaluation Services
End-Course-Exams Grades 9-12
End-of-course assessments will be required of students according
to the guidelines set forth by the Missouri department of
Elementary and Secondary Education. End of course exams will
be administered to students in Algebra I, Algebra II (for students
taking Algebra I in 8th grade), English II, Biology, Government,
and Personal Finance.
A student who completes a course or sequence of courses
incorporating the content of the Course-Level Expectations (CLE)
will be expected to take the corresponding end–of-course exam.
Students will be expected to take the end-of-course exam upon
successful completion of the course, regardless of grade level. If
courses are organized in a two-year format (Algebra IA and
Algebra IB, for example), students will take the exam at the end of
the second year.
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Plato counts EOC scores as 10 % of the student’s second semester
grade.
ACT Requirement for Juniors
In addition to the end-of-course exams in Algebra I, Algebra II,
English II, Biology, Government, and Personal Finance, all high
school juniors will be required to take the ACT. The state will
provide for a one-time administration of the ACT. This will allow
students, teachers, and parents to see how students are
academically prepared for college courses.
District MAP Testing Grades 6-8
All students in grades 6-8 will be required to complete the testing
requirements of the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP).
Any student who scores in the Proficient or Advanced category in
any area of the MAP test will be exempt from quarter finals in all
subject areas the following school year as long as they maintain at
least a 70% in each class.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
ACADEMIC INTERVENTION PROCEDURE
Students who score below Proficient on the previous year’s MAP
test in math or communication arts AND/OR make below a 70% in
math or communication arts (English or reading) classes the
previous grading period will be required to take Study Skills
during the next quarterly grading period. The content of the Study
Skills class will include (1) developing effective study habits, (2)
guided practice, and (3) specific instruction focusing on math and
communication arts skills and concepts in which the student has
demonstrated a lack of mastery. Study Skills classes will be
offered as a quarterly class which will be scheduled during each
49
hour that elective classes are offered in the middle school master
course schedule. Once students have completed a quarter of Study
Skills AND show mastery performance in their identified deficient
areas in math and/or communication arts, they will be permitted to
enroll in an elective class for the next quarter.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR PROGRAM
The purpose of the Positive Behavior Program is to encourage,
recognize, and reward good decisions and positive behavior for
middle school students. The following is an overview of the
program.
GOALS



To reduce the amount of instructional time lost due to
behavioral issues
To promote good character among students
Recognition of positive behavior as opposed to the
expected negative recognition of poor behavior
Quarterly activities will be available to participating students who
meet the eligibility requirements for each quarter. Quarterly
eligibility requirements include the following:
1. No more than two morning detention assignments per
quarter
2. No more than one office referral per quarter
3. No more than four trips to the office per quarter to call
home for not returning documents on time with the
required parent signature in AA
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Positive Behavior Activities will not be scheduled on the last day
of the quarter if special clothes/arrangements have to be made, or if
eligibility requirements end several days prior to the activity.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
S.O.A.R. PROGRAM
(Students Organizing Achievable Results)
The mission of Plato Middle School is to challenge and support
our students to be the best they can be. In this effort, our goal is to
assist students to the best of our ability when students struggle
within the school environment, whether it is an emotional,
physical, behavioral, or academic need. Once a student is
identified, a teacher will be assigned as a mentor to work with the
student to develop and implement a support plan.
A realization of the middle school faculty is that our best ally in
determining the most effective support system for a student is the
parent. Mentors will collaborate with the student, the student’s
teachers, and the parents in an effort to determine the appropriate
support system needed. Potential questions that might be posed to
parents include the following:
1. Are you seeing any problems at home or school
with your child?
2. Are there any outside circumstances that may be
affecting your child?
3. What suggestions do you have regarding how the
school can assist your child?
Once the mentor has collected information from parents, teachers,
and the student, a support plan will be developed based on the
information collected. This plan will be shared with the student,
the student’s teachers, and the parents. The mentor will then be
51
responsible for the implementation of the plan and monitoring the
student’s progress. The support plan will be viewed as a working
plan that may require revision along the way based on the intended
versus the actual outcome regarding student progress.
RETENTION
The promotion or retention of junior high students will be based
upon the total growth of each individual student. Such factors as
social, emotional, and physical growth as well as mental growth
will be considered. The student will be expected to complete the
basic subjects before promotion to the next grade level.
Conferences are held with parents/guardians to inform them of any
consideration given to retention.
If a student is failing two or more of the five core subject areas
they will be considered for retention at their current grade level for
the next school year. To determine a failing grade, the first
semester and second semester grade percentages will be averaged
to formulate an overall grade percentage. If that percentage is
below 60% in any two or more of the core subject areas, your child
will be retained in their current grade for the next school year. Also
used in the retention process is the mandated law of No Child Left
Behind. According to this new law, students should be reading at
or above grade level. If a child is reading below grade
level, the district will evaluate his/her core subject grades,
combined with their reading level, to determine if retention would
most benefit the student.
Example:
Subject
Math
Student: John Doe
1st Semester
2nd Semester
55%
61%
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Grade % for year
58%
Science
English
Soc. Stud.
70%
62%
80%
60%
56%
70%
65%
59%
75%
*The above student received below a 60% in two core
subject areas, thus the student would be retained in their
current grade for the next school year.
GRADUATION ELIGIBILITY
To participate in the high school graduation ceremony, the student
must successfully complete the requirements for graduation
established by the State of Missouri and the Plato R-V Board of
Education.
Units required for graduation:
SUBJECT
UNITS
LANGUAGE ARTS
4
English I, II, III,
and an additional English elective
SPEECH
½
SOCIAL STUDIES
3
American History
World History
American Government
MATHEMATICS
3
Must include Algebra I
SCIENCE
3
Physical Science
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Biology I
Science Elective
FINE ARTS
1
Select 1 unit from:
Art I or II, Sculpture, Vocal Music, Band,
Painting, Music Appreciation, or Drama
PRACTICAL ARTS
Finance ½
and additional Practical Arts electives
2
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
1
HEALTH
½
ELECTIVES
8
TOTAL UNITS OF CREDIT
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Graduates must complete the interview process prior to
graduation ceremonies or the student will not be allowed
to participate in the ceremony.
CLASS RANK
The following criteria will be used to determine class rank.
Priority will be given to the students who meet the following
criteria:
1. Grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in Math,
English, and Social Studies.
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2. Score above the previous year’s national ACT average
composite score. The student’s composite score will have
to be on file in the high school office before graduation.
The February ACT test date would be the latest the test
could be taken in order to meet the requirements.
3. Complete a strong academic program, as specifically
outlined below, in the subject areas of: English/Language
Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. No
substitutions will be authorized.
A. English/Language Arts courses and content must
include an emphasis on English grammar and
composition skills and seasoned compositions
involving library research activities. The four units
included in this area must be an integrated program
designed to develop the student’s ability to (1) use
writing to form and exchange ideas in a clear and
effective manner, (2) to speak English correctly and
with clarity, and (3) to understand and appreciate
ancient and contemporary literature.
B. Mathematics courses and content must include
sufficient preparation in a range of mathematical
applications to enable the student to be prepared for
the beginning math curriculum at the college level.
The three units in this must consist of at least two
units above Algebra I including Algebra II.
C. Science courses and content must provide students
familiarity with basic science and an understanding of
relationships among science, technology, and public
policy. Two of the three required units in this area
must include biology, chemistry, physics, or
anatomy/physiology.
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D. Social studies courses and content must provide
understanding of the contemporary world and the
rights and responsibilities of citizenship in a
democratic society through studies of American
History and culture and Western and non-Western
traditions and cultures.
The three units of social studies must include at least
one unit of United States History and one unit of
World History.
Specified Core Electives: Complete at least three units selected
from foreign language (two units of one foreign language are
strongly recommended) and/or combinations from two or more
additional advanced courses from the core academic areas of
English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.
E. General Electives: Earn at least five units of elective
credit, which will be selected and planned by the
school, the student, and the student’s parents or
guardians to help develop the student’s aptitudes and
skills. Advanced vocational-technical courses which
have been selected to support and strengthen the
student’s college preparatory program or career
choice may be used to fulfill this general elective
requirement.
VALEDICTORIAN
The senior who has achieved the highest cumulative class rank for
four years in high school will be the valedictorian of the senior
class. The student must have attended Plato High School for at
least six semesters.
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SALUTATORIAN
The senior who has achieved the second highest cumulative class
rank for four years in high school will be the salutatorian of the
senior class. The student must have attended Plato High School
for at least six semesters.
GRADUATION ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS
Seniors must make up all attendance overage hours and pay all
outstanding bills in full (to include lost textbook and lost library
book costs, library fines, lost uniforms, lunch balances, etc.) to be
able to participate in graduation activities.
VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL SCHOOL
The Waynesville Career Center (WCC) is for junior and senior
students who want to learn a trade or skill so that they can better be
a part of today's world of work. Students who want to attend the
Waynesville Career Center should contact the counselor.
The Plato R-V School District will pay the tuition cost and provide
transportation for the students. The District will provide a bus to
transport all Plato vocational students to and from vocational
school. All students from Plato High School who attend the area
WCC School MUST ride the bus provided by the school to and
from the Waynesville School. The parent and principal in advance
of the occasion must approve any rare exceptions to this rule.
Parents must provide written and dated permission before their
student will be allowed to drive to Vo-Tech. The bus driver will
have authority over all students on his/her bus. Students should
regard the bus as a classroom as far as conduct is concerned. The
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bus driver will be supported by the administration. Misconduct by
vocational students on the bus or at vocational school will not be
tolerated and punishment will be administered. Students who have
continual or serious problems or misconduct will be suspended
from vocational school and enrolled in a full day at Plato High
School. Attendance will be taken before the bus departs for VoTech. Students should board the bus no later than 7:55 a.m.
Students who do not board the bus by 7:55 a.m. will be counted
tardy. When the bus arrives at Vo-Tech, all students will go to the
classes immediately. When classes dismiss, all students will board
the bus. The bus should return at Plato High School at
approximately 12:15 p.m. Students should report to the cafeteria
for the regular high school lunch schedule.
Attendance for vocational students is extremely important. Poor
attendance will most likely cause low grades. Students attending
vocational school will follow the same attendance policies as
students who attend regular full day classes at Plato High School.
The area vocational school will have attendance policies per which
all students will also be held responsible. This attendance policy
is in effect the day Waynesville Career Center begins classes.
* Refer to p. 12 regarding excessive absences
VOCATIONAL STUDENT
GRADES and ATTENDANCE
The purpose of the vocational school is to enable the students to
become proficient in a vocational skill. Since Plato School is
paying the tuition for each student to attend, the school board feels
it is the student’s responsibility to obtain the certification in the
field they are working toward. Students who do not maintain a
grade average of a B- or above will be enrolled as a full-time
regular student at Plato High School.
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Students attending Vo-Tech and/or students participating in
extra-curricular activities must have excessive absences
(absences over 8 hours in any one class) made up before being
allowed to participate in the next activity, event, competition,
or attend Vo-Tech courses the following semester. Students will
be provided regularly scheduled Saturday School(s) prior to
participation restriction.
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Local Board of Education policy may recognize up to two units of
credit from correspondence schools toward meeting the state
minimum graduation requirements. To be eligible for recognition,
correspondence credit must be from the University of Missouri
Center for Independent Study or from a correspondence school
accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and
Schools or its equivalent regional accreditation agency. The
correspondence class must also be approved through the counselor
and high school principal.
OFFICE INTERNSHIP
The Plato R-V School District allows senior students who are in
good standing and meet the necessary requirements for graduation
to work as an intern in the high school or elementary office.
Students who wish to be an office intern must be approved by the
counselor and the principal. An intern must also have taken or be
enrolled in business technology class (use of office technology is
required). Interns will be graded each quarter on the following
aspects of their job performance.
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1.
Punctuality and Attendance
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Total _____
2.
Quality and Efficiency
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Total _____
3.
Attitude and Effort
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Total _____
4.
5.
Self-Motivation and Work Ethics
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Total _____
6.
Professionalism and Confidentiality
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Total _____
INTERNSHIP PROGRAM/OFF CAMPUS
The Plato R-V School District allows senior students who are in
good standing and meet the necessary requirements for graduation
to obtain employment and work as interns off campus during the
school day. Students are able to schedule work release times
during the blocks: 1st through 4th hour, or 5th through 7th hour.
Forms to apply for an internship can be picked up in the high
school office during regular school hours. Pay stubs will be
required on a bi-weekly basis as proof of continued employment.
Students who are absent from school for the hours in which they
are enrolled will be absent for the entire 7 hour day.
To be eligible for work release, a student must be a concentrator in
a career education program. To obtain concentrator status, a
student must have completed and or be enrolled in three hours of
career education courses. Grading will be provided by the
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employer on a quarterly basis. It is the student’s responsibility to
provide the office with a signed copy of the grading form prior to
the end of each quarter. Grading forms will be included in the
application packet. One Practical Art Credit will be awarded
for a student participating in the internship program.
A+ PROGRAM
The Plato R-V School District is designated as an A+ School.
The A+ Schools program is a school-improvement initiative
established by the Outstanding Schools Act of 1993. The A+
Program is a tuition reimbursement program for students who meet
the program requirements and who attend a Missouri community
college or post-secondary vocational-technical school on a fulltime basis. The program is raising academic standards, opening
new doors to higher education and introducing students to the
teaching profession through tutoring and mentoring activities.
The program provides incentives for local high schools to:
1. Reduce the dropout rate.
2. Raise academic expectations and eliminate “general
track” courses.
3. Provide better “career pathways” for all students.
4. Work more closely with business and higher-education
leaders.
The primary goal of A+ Schools is to assure that all students are
well prepared to pursue advanced education and employment. The
A+ Schools Program encourages students to stay in school, make
career plans, tutor younger students, and graduate with the skills
and knowledge required for career success or further education.
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Students who meet the following requirements may be certified as
an A+ student upon graduation:
Requirement 1
Enter into a written agreement with the high school to
participate in the A+ Schools Student Financial Incentive
Program.
A student may enter into the agreement at any time during his/her
four years of high school. Due to the requirement to cumulate
tutoring hours, it is recommended that the agreement be signed as
early as possible.
Requirement 2
Attend a designated A+ School for three consecutive years
immediately prior to graduation.
A student must attend Plato R-V High School (or another A+
designated school) during his/her sophomore, junior, and senior
years. The student financial incentive is dependent upon the
availability of state appropriations from the Missouri General
Assembly.
Requirement 3
Have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
This average will represent the applicant’s cumulative GPA that
includes the freshman through senior years.
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Requirement 4
Have at least a 95 percent attendance record.
The applicant must have a 95% or better average attendance record
for a four-year period: freshman through senior years. A student
with a 94.9% or lower average will not be eligible.
Requirement 5
Perform 50 hours of unpaid tutoring or mentoring during the
last two years of high school (unless special approval is granted
to complete the tutoring during the sophomore year).
The following guidelines should be followed in the completion of
these requirements:
1. Tutoring activities will be designed to involve the A+ applicant
with same or lower grade students in the school district.
2. Tutoring activities will provide encouragement to same and
lower grade students to set goals, stay cool in school, and strive for
good grades and citizenship.
Requirement 6
Maintain a record of good citizenship and avoidance of the
unlawful use of drugs.
In an effort to set forth the parameters of “good citizenship,” the
participants in the A+ School Program of the Plato R-V School
District should understand that the citizenship policy will be
followed in establishing and determining “good citizenship.”
Requirement 7
Attend a Missouri community college or postsecondary
vocational-technical school on a full-time basis and maintain a
GPA of 2.5 or higher.
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The tuition incentive may be made available only after the student
has made a documented good faith effort to first secure all
available federal postsecondary student financial assistance funds
that do not require repayment; and will only be made available to
reimburse the unpaid balance of the cost of tuition and general
fees, subject to legislative appropriation, after the
federal postsecondary student financial assistance funds have been
applied to these costs.*
*Effective August 28, 1999, all individuals required to register
under the United States Military Selective Service Act must show
proof of registration to be eligible for state-supported scholarships,
programs for financial assistance for postsecondary education or
loans insured by any state agency. This student eligibility
requirement is authorized pursuant to Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 105.1210,
105.1213 and 105.1216 (2000)
Additional Requirements may need to be added based on
legislative decisions.
SEMESTER FINALS/QUARTER FINALS
EXEMPTION
At the end of each quarter and semester, final tests will be given
for each subject area. (Quarterfinals will be given 1st Quarter and
3rd Quarter only.) Ninth graders who achieved Proficient or
Advanced scores on their 8th grade MAP test are exempt from
quarter finals as long as they maintain at least a 70% in each class.
Any High School student who achieves a Proficient or Advanced
Score on EOC exams or achieves an ACT score “at or above the
national average” will be exempt from quarter finals as long as
they maintain at least a 70% in each class.)
The finals cannot be given earlier than the set dates. Students who
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are absent must make arrangements with the teacher to take the
test.
Exemption for semester finals:
1. Total absences (in all classes combined) of 14 hours or less
2. No more than 2 hours of absence in any one class AND
3. Have a 2.0 (70%) each quarter in the specified class.
Example #1:
1st hour: 2 absences
2nd hour: 2 absences
3rd hour: 2 absences
4th hour: 2 absences
5th hour: 2 absences
6th hour: 2 absences
7th hour: 2 absences
If a student meets the above criteria, they will be exempt from
ALL finals.
Example #2:
1st hour: 2 absences
2nd hour: 1 absence
3rd hour: 1 absence
4th hour: 1 absence
5th hour: 2 absences
6th hour: 3 absences
7th hour: 4 absences
The above student will have to take finals in 6th and 7th hours
only. (They met the 14 hour requirement but did not meet the 2
hours or less in any one class for 6th and 7th hours.)
If a student has missed more than 14 hours total, they will be
required to take all finals.
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Example #3:
1st hour: 0 absences
2nd hour: 0 absences
3rd hour: 0 absences
4th hour: 0 absences
5th hour: 0 absences
6th hour: 0 absences
7th hour: 15 absences
The above student will be required to take all finals 1st-7th hour.
(They did not meet the 14 hour requirement.)
DROPPING CLASSES
Classes should be dropped within the first three (3) days of the
semester. If a class is dropped after the first three (3) days of the
semester, the result will be a recorded F on the student’s
cumulative transcript.
DUAL ENROLLMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Dual credit courses are courses which can be taken during normal
high school hours in which the student receives both high school
and college credit.
Plato High School maintains an 11-point grading scale (A, A-, B+,
B, B-, C+, C, C-, D+, D, D-, and F.) This grading scale is applied
in a fair and consistent manner to each class that is taught at Plato
High School. Grades are tabulated at the conclusion of each
quarter (four per year). Semester grades are tabulated at the end of
the second and fourth quarter. The semester grade (.5 credits) then
goes on the student’s transcript verifying completion or failure of
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the course. The grading procedure outlined in this paragraph
includes dual credit courses offered in association with contracted
Dual Credit Providers.
Contracted Dual Credit Providers are independent institutions and
separate from Plato R-V School. Each institution maintains its
own standards and policies pertaining to grades and course credit.
Grading scales are on a four-point scale (A, B, C, D, and F) and are
awarded for the completion of the course in which the student is
enrolled. The majority of college courses are three credit hours.
Laboratory classes have an additional credit hour. With the
different grading scales and credit policies it is feasible for a
student to receive different letter grades on his/her Plato High
School report card/transcript than what they receive from a postsecondary institution.
CAREER DAYS/JOB SHADOWING
Each junior and senior student is allowed two excused absences to
seek advanced education or to job shadow a prospective career
field. (Example: College, Technical School, etc.) Approval for a
career day must be made one week in advance. A signed
permission slip must be completed before the date of the visit.
This permission slip is available in the high school office.
The student must then bring in a signed letterhead or other
documentation from the organization or institution or other
documentation upon their return to school. Failure to meet these
requirements will result in the student being considered truant for
the hours missed at school. Only four students per day are allowed
for career day.
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HONOR ROLL
Student Honor Roll will be figured using the student's semester
GPA.
High School
School Honor Roll = 3.0 GPA (A/B)
Principal’s Honor Roll= 3.5 GPA (A/B)
Superintendent's Honor Roll = 4.0 GPA (All A)
Middle School
All A Honor Roll
A/B Honor Roll
COMMENCEMENT
The date of graduation is set by the Board of Education. On the
night of commencement all academic scholarships will be included
in the program and graduating seniors will receive diplomas.
RECORDS AND TRANSCRIPTS
Permanent records for each student are kept in the high school
office. Only the student, his/her parents or guardians, authorized
school personnel, and persons authorized by the student or
parents/guardians may have access to the permanent record. All
requests must be given in writing with a one-day processing time.
Transcripts of grades or other information will be sent free of
charge to any college or prospective employer upon the request of
the student or his/her parent or guardian.
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CUMULATIVE RECORDS
The Plato Jr. /Sr. High School will keep a complete record of each
student enrolled. When students enter the ninth grade, this record is
sent to the secondary principal's office. If a student leaves our
district, his/her records will be sent to the new school.
All information in the cumulative record is confidential. It is for
use by parents, teachers, and for guidance purposes. To view your
child's records, check with the high school office.
MAKE-UP WORK
It is the student's responsibility to ask the teacher what work was
missed while the student was absent. Previously announced tests
and homework will be completed and turned in on the day the
student returns to class after being absent.
An equivalent number of days (up to seven days) will be allowed
for students to make up the work that was missed during a time of
absence. For example, if a student was absent three consecutive
days, the student would have three days to make up the work that
was missed. If a student is absent more than seven consecutive
days, the student and teacher will need to meet to determine a
deadline schedule that is manageable.
For classes in which participation is a standard for grades, an
alternative assignment will be made available by the teacher upon
request from the student. The alternative assignment will focus on
the same concept(s) as what the participation points were based
upon and will have the equivalent points possible.
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ADVISOR/ADVISEE
Students will be assigned an advisor at the beginning of the year.
Advisors will meet with the students they are assigned to on a daily
basis for various tasks. Students will report to the advisor location
designated.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
PHILOSOPHY: The Plato R-V Board of Education, its faculty
and administration believe students should have maximum
opportunity for a quality education. It is believed that extracurricular activities (academic clubs and sports programs)
contribute to this quality education and are beneficial to the
students and to others involved. It is also believed that in some
situations, students would benefit more if less time was spent on
these extra-curricular activities and more time spent academically.
It is with this in mind that the following policies have been adopted
to provide for some overall standards for these activities.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The Plato High School government is based on the democratic
principles on which our national government was built. Our
purpose is to give our students a voice in student activities and to
transmit to them the democratic system of government.
The entire student body is to be represented by our student council.
Each class in grades 6-12 will be represented in the governmental
structure of the student council. Students will have an opportunity
to participate in student council actions and decisions through
representatives. The student council shall be composed of two
representatives, one boy and one girl, from each class and one
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representative from each club or organization recognized by the
student council. Class and organization representatives shall be
elected by popular vote of the entire class or organization at the
August or September meeting. The President, Vice-President,
Secretary and Treasurer for student council will run as individuals
and campaign in September of the school year in which they will
be active.
INTER-SCHOOL CONTESTS AND ACTIVITIES
The Missouri High School Activities Association governs interschool activities in athletics, music and speech.
Plato High School is a member of the Frisco League. We
participate in various Frisco League activities including math
contest, spelling bee, art, band, baseball, basketball, chorus, cross
country, and track.
The band and chorus participate in music contests and workshops
sponsored by the MSHSAA. In addition, the band and chorus
present two concerts during the year.
CONTESTS: In addition to the Frisco League activities, students
have an opportunity to participate in various academic contests
throughout the school year.
FBLA: Students participate in district, state, and national contests
in business related areas.
BETA: Members attend the state convention in March and
compete in several academic and talent programs.
FFA: Students participate in several contests in agricultural related
areas at district, state, and national levels.
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Students attending Waynesville Career Center have the
opportunity to participate in the Skills USA contest at the district,
state, and national levels.
All contests involving school representatives must be approved by
the administration.
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Art Club
Band
Beta Club (High School)
Choir
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
Future Business Leaders of America
Future Farmers of America
Future Medical Leaders
Jr. Beta Club (Grades 6 – 9)
Pep Club
Peer Helpers
Student Council (Middle School and High School)
Varsity Athletic Club
A club fair will be held in August to help inform students of the
various club opportunities available to them. By the end of
September, each club will be required to submit to the
administration:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The names of the officers and sponsors
An up-to-date list of membership
A schedule of activities
Attendance @ extra-curricular activities *ballgames
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No student may be denied participation in club activities because
he/she is unable to pay dues. No student may be denied
participation in any club for which they are qualified. Funding for
club activities comes from charged dues and fund-raising projects
by the club members.
ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS: In order to be eligible to
participate in any extra-curricular activities, the following
requirements must be maintained:
1. The student must maintain a 60% or better in every class on
a semester basis.
2. A grade below 60% in any class at the end of the semester
will result in the student being ineligible the next semester.
3. The student must meet Missouri State High School
Activities Association standards.
4. Students must be in compliance with the Plato High School
attendance policy. Any student who has attendance
overage will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities, to include school dances, prom, field
trips, or sporting events, etc.
Good sportsmanship is a big aspect of extra-curricular activities.
Students and fans are expected to always show good
sportsmanship. In some instances, it will take restraint and selfdiscipline. Schools are labeled by the actions of their students and
fans. A student must attend class for three full periods the day
of an activity in order to participate in any extra-curricular
activity. Students who miss class to attend school-sponsored
activities must complete and turn in the work for the missed day of
class on the day they return.
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ACTIVITY CALENDAR
Individuals and organizations wishing to place activities on the
school calendar must have prior approval from the administration.
These activities should be placed on the calendar at least two
weeks before the activity is to take place.
SPECIAL EVENTS
ATHLETICS: The athletic ceremony is held at the end of the
school year for students in grades 9-12. The purpose of the
ceremony is to honor all athletes and their parents. All athletic
awards are given at this ceremony.
FUNDRAISERS: No article will be sold by or to the students at
school or under the direction of the school except for those
approved by the building principal. Only fundraisers for school
groups and organizations will be approved.
HOMECOMING: Planning of the annual homecoming is a
function of the student council. The homecoming queen is selected
by the student body and is crowned at a homecoming basketball
game. The candidates are selected by the male members of the
Varsity Athletic Club. The homecoming court is made up of the
queen candidates and attendants.
JUNIOR-SENIOR PROM: The junior-senior prom is held in
April or May. The junior class is in charge of this event. Any Plato
student who plans on bringing a high school-aged guest not
enrolled in Plato High School must receive approval from the high
school principal before being allowed to attend the prom. All
students attending the Junior-Senior Prom must ride the bus to and
from prom, unless extenuating circumstances are pre-approved by
the high school principal.
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MISS, JUNIOR MISS, AND LITTLE MISS WINTER
QUEEN: The pageant is presented by the Beta Club between a
boy’s junior varsity and varsity home basketball game. The date is
determined by the administration.
SCHOOL DANCES:
1. School dances are closed functions.
2. Only those students presently enrolled at Plato High School
will be allowed to attend. (High school-age guests who are
not enrolled at Plato may attend if pre-approved by
principal).
3. Students leaving the event will not be allowed to return.
4. A minimum of four (4) sponsors is required at school
dances. One male teacher and one female teacher must be
present. Parents are encouraged to attend all school dances.
5. Dances require approval of the principal at least three (3)
weeks in advance.
6. The hours for all high school dances will be from 8:0011:00 p.m. Allowances on these times will be made for
homecoming.
7. Students must attend a minimum of three (3) hours of
school the day of the dance. Students who are assigned
Academic Reassignment are allowed to come to the dance.
Students who are assigned OSS (Out-of-School
Suspension) are not allowed to attend the dance.
SENIOR TRIP: Senior students wanting to embark on the Senior
Trip must complete the ACT or SAT test prior to the trip. If
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needed, the school district will provide transportation to a
December ACT test site. Scholarships for the cost of the test may
be awarded upon request and approval by the administration.
ASSEMBLIES
Assemblies are a regularly scheduled part of the curriculum and as
such, are designed to be an educational as well as an entertaining
experience. Regardless of the type of program, courtesy demands
that the student body be respectful and appreciative. Talking,
whispering, whistling, stamping of feet and booing are
discourteous. Yelling is appropriate only at pep assemblies.
1. Proceed to the assembly area quietly and promptly. When
the chairman of the assembly asks for your attention, give it
to him/her immediately.
2. Be courteous to the performers and to your neighbor.
3. Applaud in keeping with the occasion. Applause should be
generous and courteous. Do not leave the assembly until
dismissed.
ATHLETIC AWARDS AND LETTERS
Athletic awards are made on the basis of participation. The awards
must be symbolic in nature and have no monetary value.
Athletic awards presented by Plato High School are: varsity letter
for meeting standards set by the coaching staff, a symbol for each
sport in which the athlete letters, and a bar for each year of
participation.
Standards for athletic awards are at the discretion of the coach.
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DEPARTMENTAL AWARDS
Each department may choose one student as the outstanding
student in that department. This award will be presented at the
academic ceremony.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE
Certificates and/or awards will be given at the academic ceremony.
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Near the end of the school year, an academic award ceremony is
held for the purpose of academic awards for grades 9-12 and a
separate academic award ceremony for grades 6-8.
FROM THE STATE OF MISSOURI
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
THE SHOW-ME STANDARDS
GOAL -- EFFECTIVE STUDENTS
Students will acquire the knowledge and skills to be successful in
school and in the work place.
Students will demonstrate within and integrate across all content
areas the ability to:
1. Exhibit honesty, integrity, and pride in their work.
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2.
3.
4.
5.
Be adaptable and flexible.
Use organizational skills.
Show initiative.
Be responsible for appropriate attendance, punctuality, dress,
and accountability.
6. Develop appropriate interpersonal relationships through
cooperation and confidentiality.
7. Show loyalty and respect for self and others.
GOAL 1
Students in Missouri public schools will acquire the knowledge
and skills to gather, analyze and apply information and ideas.
Students will demonstrate within and integrate across all content
areas the ability to:
Develop questions and ideas to initiate and refine research.
1. Conduct research to answer questions and evaluate
information and ideas.
2. Design and conduct field and laboratory investigations to
study nature and society.
3. Use technological tools and other resources to locate, select
and organize information.
4. Comprehend and evaluate written, visual and oral
presentations and works.
5. Discover and evaluate patterns and relationships in
information, ideas and structures.
6. Evaluate the accuracy of information and the reliability of its
sources.
7. Organize data, information and ideas into useful forms
(including charts, graphs, outlines) for analysis or
presentation.
8. Identify, analyze and compare the institutions, traditions and
art forms of past and present societies.
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9. Apply acquired information, ideas and skills to different
contexts as students, workers, citizens and consumers.
GOAL 2
Students in Missouri public schools will acquire the knowledge
and skills to communicate effectively within and beyond the
classroom.
Students will demonstrate within and integrate across all content
areas the ability to:
1. Plan and make written, oral and visual presentations for a
variety of purposes and audiences.
2. Review and revise communications to improve accuracy and
clarity.
3. Exchange information, questions and ideas while recognizing
the perspectives of others; present perceptions and ideas
regarding works of the arts, humanities and sciences.
4. Perform or produce works in the fine and practical arts.
5. Apply communication techniques to the job search and to the
workplace.
6. Use technological tools to exchange information and ideas.
GOAL 3
Students in Missouri public schools will acquire the knowledge
and skills to recognize and solve problems.
Students will demonstrate within and integrate across all content
areas the ability to:
1. Identify problems and define their scope and elements.
2. Develop and apply strategies based on ways others have
prevented or solved problems.
3. Develop and apply strategies based on one’s own experience
in preventing or solving problems.
4. Evaluate the processes used in recognizing and solving
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5.
6.
7.
8.
problems.
Reason inductively from a set of specific facts and
deductively from general premises.
Examine problems and proposed solutions from multiple
perspectives.
Evaluate the extent to which a strategy addresses the problem.
Assess costs, benefits and other consequences of proposed
solutions.
GOAL 4
Students in Missouri public schools will acquire the knowledge
and skills to make decisions and act as responsible members of
society.
Students will demonstrate within and integrate across all content
areas the ability to:
1. Explain reasoning and identify information used to support
decisions.
2. Understand and apply the rights and responsibilities of
citizenship in Missouri and the United States.
3. Analyze the duties and responsibilities of individuals in
societies.
4. Recognize and practice honesty and integrity in academic
work and in the workplace.
5. Develop, monitor and revise plans of action to meet deadlines
and accomplish goals.
6. Identify tasks that require a coordinated effort; work with
others to complete those tasks.
7. Identify and apply practices that preserve and enhance the
safety and health of self and others.
8. Explore, prepare for and seek educational and job
opportunities.
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COMMUNICATION ARTS
In Communication Arts, students in Missouri public schools will
acquire a solid foundation which includes knowledge of and
proficiency in:
1. Speaking and writing Standard English (including grammar,
usage, punctuation, spelling, capitalization).
2. Reading and evaluating fiction, poetry and drama.
3. Reading and evaluating nonfiction works and material (such
as biographies, newspapers, technical manuals).
4. Writing formally (such as reports, narratives, essays) and
informally (such as outlines, notes).
5. Comprehending and evaluating the content and artistic
aspects of oral and visual presentations (such as story-telling,
debates, lectures, multi-media productions).
6. Participating in formal and informal presentations and
discussions of issues and ideas.
7. Identifying and evaluating relationships between language
and culture.
SOCIAL STUDIES
In Social Studies, students in Missouri public schools will acquire
a solid foundation which includes knowledge of:
1. Principles expressed in the documents shaping constitutional
democracy in the United States.
2. Continuity and change in the history of Missouri, the United
States and the world.
3. Principles and processes of governance systems.
4. Economic concepts (including productivity and the market
system) and principles (including the laws of supply and
demand).
5. The major elements of geographical study and analysis (such
as location, place, movement, regions) and their relationships
to changes in society and environment.
6. Relationships of the individual and groups to institutions and
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cultural traditions.
7. The use of tools of social science inquiry (such as surveys,
statistics, maps, documents).
MATHEMATICS
In Mathematics, students in Missouri public schools will acquire a
solid foundation which includes knowledge of:
1. Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division; other
number sense, including numeration and estimation; and the
application of these operations and concepts in the workplace
and other situations.
2. Geometric and spatial sense involving measurement
(including length, area, volume), trigonometry, and similarity
and transformations of shapes.
3. Data analysis, probability and statistics.
4. Patterns and relationships within and among functions and
algebraic, geometric and trigonometric concepts.
5. Mathematical systems (including real numbers, whole
numbers, integers, fractions), geometry and number theory
(including primes, factors, multiples).
6. Discrete mathematics (such as graph theory, counting
techniques, matrices).
SCIENCE
In Science, students in Missouri public schools will acquire a solid
foundation which includes knowledge of:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Properties and principles of matter and energy.
Properties and principles of force and motion.
Characteristics and interactions of living organisms.
Changes in ecosystems and interactions of organisms with
their environments.
5. Processes (such as plate movement, water cycle, air flow) and
interactions of earth’s biosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere and
hydrosphere.
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6. Composition and structure of the universe and the motions of
the objects within it.
7. Processes of scientific inquiry (such as formulating and
testing hypotheses).
8. Impact of science, technology and human activity on
resources and the environment.
HEALTH/PHYSICAL EDUCATION
In Health/Physical Education, students in Missouri public schools
will acquire a solid foundation, which includes knowledge of:
1. Structures of, functions of, and relationships among human
body systems.
2. Principles and practices of physical and mental health (such
as personal health habits, nutrition, stress management).
3. Diseases and methods for prevention, treatment and control.
4. Principles of movement and physical fitness.
5. Methods used to assess health, reduce risk factors, and avoid
high-risk behaviors (such as violence, tobacco, alcohol, and
other drug use).
6. Consumer health issues (such as the effects of mass media
and technologies on safety and health)
7. Responses to emergency situations.
FINE ARTS
In Fine Arts, students in Missouri public schools will acquire a
solid foundation, which includes knowledge of:
1. Processes and techniques for the production, exhibition or
performance of one or more of the visual or performed arts.
2. The principles and elements of different art forms.
3. The vocabulary to explain perceptions about and evaluations
of works in dance, music, theater and visual arts.
4. Interrelationships of visual and performing arts and the
relationships of the arts to other disciplines.
5. Visual and performing arts in historical and cultural contexts.
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STANDARD COMPLAINT RESOLUTION
PROCEDURE FOR IMPROVING AMERICA’S
SCHOOLS ACT PROGRAMS
This complaint resolution procedure applies to all programs
administered by the Department of Elementary and Secondary
Education under the Goals 2000: Educate America Act and the
Improving America’s Schools Act (IASA).
A complaint is a formal allegation that a specific federal or state
law or regulation has been violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted
by school personnel or by Department of Education personnel.
Any parent or guardian, surrogate parent, teacher, administrator,
school board member, or other person directly involved with an
activity, program, or project operated under the general supervision
of the Department may file a complaint. Such a complaint must be
in writing and signed; it will provide specific details of the
situation and indicate the law or regulation that is allegedly being
violated, misapplied, or misinterpreted.
NOTICE OF DESIGNATION OF DIRECTORY
INFORMATION
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a
Federal law, requires that Plato R-V School District, with certain
exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of
personally identifiable information from your child’s education
records. However, Plato R-V School District may disclose
appropriately designated “directory information” without written
consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in
accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of
directory information is to allow the Plato R-V School District to
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include this type of information from your child’s educational
records. Examples include:
 A playbill showing your student’s role in a drama
production;
 School publications (Yearbook & School Newspaper)
 Honor roll or other recognition lists;
 Graduation programs; and
 Sports activity sheets, showing weight and height of team
members
 Pictures for various publications or postings
Directory information, which is information that is generally not
considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released can also
be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior
written consent.
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 provides
military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information
categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless
parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s
information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want Plato R-V School District to disclose directory
information from your child’s educational records without your
prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by the
second Friday in September of the current school year.
PUBLIC NOTICE
All responsible public agencies are required to locate, evaluate,
and identify children with disabilities who are under the
jurisdiction of the agency, regardless of the severity of the
disability, including children attending private schools, highly
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mobile children, such as migrant and homeless children, and
children who are suspected of having a disability and in need of
special education even though they are advancing from grade to
grade. The Plato R-V School District assures that it will provide a
free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to all eligible children
with disabilities between the ages of 3 and 21 under its jurisdiction.
Disabilities include autism, deaf/blindness, emotional disorders,
hearing impairment and deafness, intellectual disability, multiple
disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairments,
specific learning disabilities, speech or language impairment,
traumatic brain injury, visual impairment/blindness and young
child with a developmental delay.
The Plato R-V School District assures that it will provide
information and referral services necessary to assist the State in the
implementation of early intervention services for infants and
toddlers eligible for the Missouri First Steps program.
The Plato R-V School assures that personally identifiable
information collected, used, or maintained by the agency for the
purposes of identification, evaluation, placement or provision of
FAPE of children with disabilities may be inspected and/or
reviewed by their parents/guardians. Parents/guardians may
request amendment to the educational record if the parent/guardian
believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the
privacy or other rights of their child. Parents have the right to file
complaints with the U.S. Department of Education or the Missouri
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education concerning
alleged failures by the district to meet the requirements of the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
The Plato R-V School has developed a Local Compliance Plan for
the implementation of State Regulations for the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This plan contains the
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agency’s policies and procedures regarding storage, disclosure to
third parties, retention and destruction of personally identifiable
information and the agency’s assurances that services are provided
in compliance with the General Education Provision Act (GEPA).
This plan may be reviewed at the Plato R-V School District
Monday thru Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Local school districts in the State of Missouri are required to
conduct an annual census of all children with disabilities or
suspected disabilities from birth to age twenty-one (21) that reside
in the district. This census must be compiled by December 1 of
each year. This information is treated as confidential and must
include: name of the child; parent/legal guardian’s name/address;
birth date and age of the child; the child’s disability; and the
services provided to the child. If you have a child with a disability
or know of a child with a disability who is not attending the public
school, please contact Plato R-V School District at (417) 4584980.
This notice will be provided in native languages as appropriate.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
PLATO R-V SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Plato R-V School District complies with all federal and state
laws prohibiting discrimination, including Title IX of the
Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1974 and the American Disabilities Act
(ADA). It is the policy of the school district that no person, on the
basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or handicap, shall be
discriminated against in employment, educational programs and
activities or admissions.
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Inquiries or complaints concerning the Plato R-V School District’s
compliance with the regulations implementing Title II, Title VI,
Title IX, Section 504 or the American Disabilities Act (ADA) may
be directed to the District Coordinator of these programs:
Dan Chappell, Superintendent
Plato R-V School
10645 Plato Dr.
Plato, Missouri 65552
(417) 458-3333
NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT
Plato R-V School recruits qualified teachers in accordance with the
Federal No Child Left Behind Act and state certification
requirements. Under the NCLB act a highly qualified teacher is
defined as follows:
1. Has obtained full state certification and licensure
2. Holds at least a bachelors degree
3. Successful completion, in each of the academic subjects in
which the teacher teaches, or an academic major, a graduate
degree, coursework equivalent to an undergraduate academic
major or advanced certification or credentialing.
Parent may request information regarding the certification of their
child’s teacher.
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