MT. OLIVE HIGH SCHOOL
HOME OF THE
PRINCIPAL:
ADDRESS:
PHONE:
FAX:
ONLINE:
MR. SHANE SCHURICHT
804 West Main St.
Mt. Olive, IL 62069
217-999-4231
217-999-4301 www.mtoliveschools.org
This 2010-2011 Wildcat Agenda Belongs to:
Name:_______________________________________________________________________

General Information
06 Agencies For Help
06 Application for Fee Waiver
09 Asbestos Presence Warning
06 Athletic Fees, Forms, etc.
12 Behavior Interventions
03 Bell Schedule
05 Delegation of Authority
05 Guidelines for Student Behavior
06 Health Records
06 Insurance, Student
07 Internet Policy - District
08 Pesticide Use
12 Powerschool
12 Qualifications of Staff
05 Residence-Eligibility
04 School District Philosophy
05 School Safety
04 School Staff
12 Special Education
09 Statement of Non
Discrimination
09 Student Records
Academics, Grades and Honors
15 Academic Achievement
Honor Roll
13 College Day
13 Definition of Credit
12 General Curriculum Information
14 Grading Policy
13 Make-up Credits/Alternative Courses
15 Pass – Fail Option
15 Reports Cards and D/F Slips
12 Requirements for Driver’s Education
13 Requirements for Graduation
13 Schedule Changes
12 Student Classification
14 Student Programs
13 Student Schedules
Policies and Procedures
20 Administering Medication
19 Assemblies
16 Attendance Policy
20 Bicycles
21 Bus Policies
17 Cell Phones, Camera Phones
& Digital Cameras
19 Closed Campus
15 Dress Code
17 Electronic Devices
19 Fire Drills/Safety Procedures
19 Guidance and Counseling Services
19 Lockers
19 Make-up Assignments
18 Music Devices, etc.
19 Parking Lot and Student Vehicles
18 P.E. Uniforms
18 Plagiarism
TABLE OF CONTENTS
21 Searching of Student & Lockers
18 Senior Final Exam Exemption
20 Student Complaint and Grievance
18 Telephone Messages
18 Telephone Use
18Textbooks
18 Unpaid School Fees
21 Visitors
Student Conduct
24 Assault & Battery
23 Classroom Misconduct
21 Code of Conduct
25 Defiance and Disrespect
23 Discipline Behavior Code
26 Drugs-Abuse
27 False Fire Alarms
25 Fighting
25 Firecrackers/Smoke Bombs,
etc
26 Forgery
26 Gangs
26 Hazing Other Students
28 Office Behavior
26 Physical Touching or
Harassment
27 Probation
26 Public Displays of Affection
26 Sexual Harassment
24 Smoking/Tobacco Use
26 Stealing/Cheating
23 Student Discipline
Responsibilities
24 Substance Abuse Prevention Policy
24 Substitute Teachers
27 Tardiness or Truancy
27 Threats to Students, Staff, or
Board of Education
27 Vandalism
27 Vulgar Language/Gestures
28 Weapons
27 Written Inappropriate
Classroom Material/Threats
Discipline
29 Detention
28 Disciplinary Measures
28 Disciplinary Procedures
30 Expulsion
29 In-school Supervision
30 Out-of-School Suspension
29 Saturday School
28 Social Suspension
Activities
30 Attendance on Days of
Contests
30 Good Night Rule
30 School Dances

REGULAR BELL SCHEDULE
PERIOD CLASS TIME
1 8:10 – 8:59
2 9:02 – 9:51
3 9:54 – 10:43
TOTAL MINUTES
49 minutes
49 minutes
49 minutes
4 10:46 – 11:35 49 minutes
Lunch 11:35 – 12:05 30 minutes
5 12:08 – 12:57 49 minutes
6 1:00 – 1:49 49 minutes
Study Skills 1:52-2:23 31 minutes
7 2:26 – 3:15 49 minutes

There is a 3 minute passing period in between classes for students.
 We will have a flex schedule for Study Skills/Homeroom and 7 th period. If there is no reason for students to be released early on a given day, Study Skills/Homeroom will immediately follow 6 th period. If students are released early from school (baseball game, track meet, etc.) we will follow a flex schedule with 7 th period following 6 th
period and Study Skills/Homeroom being at the end of the day.

Study Skills/Homeroom is designed for students to receive instructional strategies, study, class meetings, extracurricular meetings, college representatives, etc.
SCHEDULE FOR S.I.P. DAYS
5
6
7
PERIOD CLASS TIME
1 8:10 – 8:40
2
3
4
8:43 – 9:13
9:16 – 9:46
9:49 – 10:19
10:22 – 10:52
10:55 – 11:25
11:28 – 11:58
TOTAL MINUTES
30
30
30
30
30
30
30

There is a 3 minute passing period in between classes for students.
 Lunch will be served for interested students
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MT. OLIVE HIGH SCHOOL STAFF
2010-2011
MISSION STATEMENT
Empowering every student to Believe, then Achieve
ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Patrick Murphy
Mr. Shane Schuricht
Superintendent
Principal
GUIDANCE
Jackie Meurer
OFFICE STAFF
Denise Mathis
ATHLETICS
Terry Marietta
Guidance Counselor
Administrative Assistant
Athletic Director
Alice Adden
Sherry Anderson
Jason Cooper
Mary Eilert
Heather Gallia
FACULTY AND ASSISTANTS
Business Brett Allen Science
English
Teaching Assist.
DE/PE
Art
Lisa Haenel
Jennie Halpin
English
English
Andrea Prante Special Ed
Ashley Rothe Special Ed
Mike Mueller
Deanna Schultz
Zach Simon
Stacey Steiner
Terry Swenson
Mike Winsel
Michele Wright
SCHOOL DISTRICT PHILOSOPHY
Math
Librarian/SS
Band
Soc. Studies
English
Industrial Arts
Math
Believing that the Mt. Olive community has high expectations for its young people, the District #5 board of education and the administration want to provide the very best education possible. Therefore, we want our grade school and high school to be effective schools, which teach all equally well, without regard to sex, race, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, or educational level of the parents.
We expect and shall encourage our teachers, parents and children to strive to see that each student will:
1. Learn the basic verbal and quantitative skills.
2. Learn scientific skills and the scientific approach.
3.
Learn the basics of geography, history, and civics.
4.
Become electronically literate, especially with computers.
5.
Develop a good system of values well “rooted” in the family, school, community, state, and nation.
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6.
Learn the appropriate thinking skills.
7.
Learn how to be a good citizen, a worthy contributor to society, and an informed consumer.
In order to achieve the above seven goals, we believe each school will:
1. Establish a clear school mission.
2.
Provide each student with the opportunity to learn.
3.
Base each subject’s instructional program upon a tightly coupled curriculum.
4.
Have high expectations and standards for student achievement.
5.
Carefully monitor student progress.
6.
Provide a safe, orderly environment for learning.
7.
Develop and provide instructional leadership.
8.
Ensure parent participation and assistance.
To support this process, the Board of Education hereby commits itself, its policies, and the District’s resources.
GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR AND RULES AND REGULATIONS
A goal of Mt. Olive Unit #5 educational program is to encourage the independence and responsibility that are characteristics of a mature person. Since an orderly atmosphere is essential if learning is to take place, these guidelines help to provide for the personal welfare of the student as well as for the common good of the school, since everyone wants the school to be an
“effective” school.
1. A constant respect for all personal property for all persons, whether they are teachers, students, staff, visitors or others, is a basic requirement for all.
2.
A respect for personal property is a visible sign of respect.
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
Each teacher, and any other school personnel, when students are under his or her charge, is authorized to impose any disciplinary measure, other than suspension, expulsion, or in-school discipline. Teachers and other school personnel may use reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students and staff and visitors when a student exhibits disruptive behavior at school, on school property or at a school related event.
The superintendent or building principal is authorized to impose the same disciplinary measures and may suspend students guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct from school (including all school functions) and from riding the school bus, up to
10 consecutive school days, provided the appropriate procedures are followed.
The school board may prevent a student from riding the school bus in excess of 10 days for safety reasons and may expel students from school who are guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct for a period of up to two calendar years, as determined by the school board.
SCHOOL SAFETY
If a student or parent obtains information about parental violence against children, they are asked to report it immediately to one of the following: Teachers, Guidance Counselor, Social Worker, Principal, or a friend who will report it.
Or call 1-
800-477-0024. To the extent possible, anonymity and/or confidentiality will be maintained. The Mt. Olive School District is committed to providing a safe learning environment for all students.
RESIDENCE/ELIGIBILITY TO ATTEND MT. OLIVE SCHOOLS
Residency will be required for all students upon registering during each school year. Students have to be registered by parents or court appointed guardians. You may be required to provide sign and/or provide certain documents verifying residency within the Mt. Olive School District. Please refer to board policy and procedures for further information. Any person who knowingly or willfully enrolls or provides false information regarding a student’s residency to a school official may be found guilty of a Class C Misdemeanor.
A homeless student may be considered a resident of the District under certain circumstances. If you have questions regarding the enrollment of a homeless student in the District’s schools, please contact the Superintendent of Schools, 804 W. Main
Street, Mt. Olive, IL 62069 or (217) 999-7831,
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Mt. Olive Community Unit School District No. 5, appreciates the fact that many parents, guardians or foster parents prefer that their child attend our schools even though the child may not be a legal resident of the school District. However, we are required by the laws of the State of Illinois to charge tuition for students who are not legal residents of our school District or who have established a residence with adults other than parent(s), guardian(s) or foster parent(s) solely for the purpose of attending school in this District.
APPLICATION FOR FEE WAIVER
Pursuant to Section 10-20.13 of the Illinois School Code, students are eligible for school fee waivers and free and reducedprice meals if they are currently receiving aid under Article IV of the Illinois Public Aid Code or are from households whose gross income is at or below set levels. Application for fee waivers and free or reduced-priced meals are available in the Mt.
Olive High School office.
Parents who wish to claim an inability to pay due to economic hardship must request a fee waiver or reduction form from the school (this form must be completed in its entirety and submitted with the required supporting documents).
Until past due fees are paid or properly resolved, the school may take the following actions(s) against a student:

Not release the student’s diploma

Restrict participation in extra-curricular activities and library privileges

Use a collection agency to initiate recovery, and report loss to credit bureaus

Restrict further charges by the student
HEALTH RECORDS
All students must have medical records on file in the school office, which verify their compliance with State Health
Department requirements. All incoming 9 th
grade students and students transferring from schools outside the state of Illinois are also required to provide the results of a physical examination completed within one year prior to their enrollment date.
By law, any student not in compliance with these requirements by October 15 th will be excluded from school. New students who register mid-term will have 30 days following registration to provide the required health and immunization information to school officials. Any student that has not provided this information will be excluded from school. During a student’s exclusion from school for non-compliance, the student’s parent(s)/ guardian(s) may be guilty of a Class C Misdemeanor and subject to a fine by the courts.
PSYCHOTROPIC OR PSYCHOSTIMULANT MEDICATION
No student may be disciplined because of the refusal of his/her parents or guardian to administer or consent to the administration of psychotropic or psychostimulant medication to the student.
At least once every two years certified school personnel and administrators will receive in-service training on the current best practices regarding the identification and treatment of attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the application of non-aversive behavioral interventions in the school environment, and the use of psychotropic or psychostimulant medication for school-age children.
This policy does not prohibit school medical staff, an individualized educational program team, or a professional worker as defined by Section 5/14-1.10 of the School Code . 105ILCS 5/14.10, from recommending that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner or prohibit school personnel from consulting with the practitioner with the consent of the student’s parent or guardian.
STUDENT INSURANCE
Student insurance is available at a nominal cost and is optional. The student will be given blank application at registration.
Claim forms will be available and all claims processed will involve only the company and the insured. (The school will not be involved in settling claims.)
AGENCIES FOR STUDENT HELP
Locust Street Resource Center – Carlinville
Youth Crisis Hot Line
854-3166
1-800-HIT-HOME (488-4663)
The Edgewood Program – Edwardsville
Guidance Office
1-800-458-6477
999-4231 ext. 106
ATHLETES: FEES, FORMS, AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION
All students participating in sports must have a medical physical, insurance waiver form, and emergency medical action form on record, and they must pay the district appointed sports fee per sport. If that fee is not paid the athlete will not be allowed to participate in contests but may practice until such time as the fee is paid. Students are expected to follow all rules and regulations listed in the school’s extra-curricula activities handbook. Students are financially responsible for all uniforms and equipment they receive during a sports season.
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Nothing in this policy shall prohibit any school employee from providing emergency assistance to students, including administering medication.
DISTRICT INTERNET USE POLICY - 006.235 - INSTRUCTION
ACCESS TO THE INTERNET
The school board’s goal is to include the Internet in the district’s instructional program in order to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. The superintendent or designee shall development an implementation plan for this policy. Building principals shall act as the “system administrator” for the buildings.
The school district is not responsible for any information that that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable when using the network, or for any information that is retrieved via the Internet. Furthermore, the district will not be responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the Internet.
Individual school board members, parents, community members, and administrative staff members shall be treated like teachers. “Internet” includes all information accessed by Internet sites, E-mail, on-line services, and bulletin board systems.
CURRICULUM
The use of the Internet shall be consistent with the curriculum adopted by the district as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students. The Internet shall comply with the selection criteria for instructional materials and library-media center materials. Teachers may, consistent with the superintendent’s implementation plan, use the Internet throughout the curriculum.
The Internet is part of the curriculum and is not a public forum for general use.
ACCEPTABLE USE
All use of the district’s connection to the Internet must be in support of education and/or research, and be in furtherance of the school board’s stated goal. Use is a privilege, not a right. General rules for behavior and communications apply when using the Internet. Electronic communications and downloaded material may be monitored or read by school officials.
AUTHORIZATION FOR INTERNET ACCESS
Each student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign the authorization before being granted unsupervised use.
The failure of any student to follow the terms of the Authorization for Internet Access, or this policy will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action.
INSTRUCTION / AUTHORIZATION FOR INTERNET ACCESS
(Each student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign the Authorization before being granted unsupervised access.
Please read this document carefully before signing.)
All use of the Internet shall be consistent with the district’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. This Authorization does not attempt to state all required or prescribed behavior by users. However, some specific examples are provided. The failure of any user to follow the terms of the Authorization for
Internet Access will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal action. The signature(s) at the end of this document is legally binding and indicates the party who has signed has read the terms and conditions carefully and understands their significance.
Terms and Conditions
1.
Acceptable use –Access to the district’s Internet must be for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the educational objectives of the district.
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2.
Privileges-The use of the district’s Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. The building principal will make all decisions regarding whether or not a user has violated this authorization and may deny, revoke, or suspend access at any time.
3.
Unacceptable Use-Users are responsible for their actions and activities involving the network. Some examples of unacceptable use are: a.
Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation; b.
Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or devirused; c.
Downloading copyrighted material for other than personal use; d.
Using the network for private financial or commercial gain e.
Wastefully using resources, such as file space; f.
Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities; g.
Invading the privacy of individuals; h.
Using another user’s account or password; i.
Posting material authored or created by another without his/her consent; j.
Posting anonymous messages; k.
Using the network for commercial or private advertising; l.
Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually-oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material; m.
Using the network while access privileges are suspended or revoked.
4.
Network Etiquette. Users are expected to abide by generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following: a.
Be polite. Do not become abusive in messages to others. b.
Use appropriate language. Do not swear, or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate languages. c.
Do not reveal the personal addresses or telephone numbers of students or colleagues. d.
Recognize that electronic mail (E-mail) is not private. People who operate the system have access to all mail.
Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. e.
Do not use the network in any way that would disrupt its use by other means. f.
Consider all communications and information and information accessible via the network to be private property
5.
No Warranties-The district makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The district will not be responsible for any damages users suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or user’s errors or omissions.
6.
Indemnification-The user agrees to indemnify the school district for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by the district relating to, or arising out of, any breach of this authorization.
7.
Security-Network security is a high priority. If users can identify a security problem on the Internet, they must notify the system administrator or building principal. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Keep the account and password confidential. Do not use another individual’s account without written permission from that individual.
Attempts to log-on to the Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of use privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the network.
8.
Vandalism-Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or any other network. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
9.
Telephone Charges-The district assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges or fees including telephone charges, long-distance charges, per-minute surcharges, and/or equipment or line costs.
Students and parent(s)/guardian(s), will sign this authorization during registration.
PESTICIDE USE
In accordance with State laws, the District will provide notice of specific pesticide use to any school staff, student or parent who requests this notification. You can request to be placed on our Pesticide Notification list by contacting the building
8

principal and providing your name, address and day phone number. You can make this request at any time during the school year. We will provide anyone on our Pesticide Notification list with notice of any use of chemicals used to control insects, rodents, or weeds. We will provide notice in writing or by phone at least 48 hours prior to the application. Notice of pesticide applications made to control emergency pest problems will be provided as soon as possible after the application.
NOTIFICATION OF ASBESTOS CONTAINING BUILDING MATERIALS
You are hereby notified that the required Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) inspection and management plans for the Mt. Olive School District No. 5 school building have been completed and submitted as of April 1, 1988.
Asbestos Real Estate Consultants, Springfield, Illinois, conducted the inspection and developed the management plans. The
Macoupin County Regional Superintendent of Schools conducted awareness training for the head janitor and his employees.
The reports have been studied by the school board to plan appropriate response actions. The management plans are available upon request for public inspection by contacting the district office and/or the specific building principal.
Operation and maintenance programs will maintain and monitor the district continually to sustain safety standards throughout the building. This will include periodical surveillance and a three-year re-inspection for ACBN.
EMPLOYEE AND STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
Mt. Olive Community Unit School District No. 5 wishes to reaffirm to the community that it is strongly committed to a continuing policy of equal employment and equal opportunity.
Equal educational and extracurricular opportunities shall be available for all students without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, age, religious beliefs, physical or mental disability, status as homeless, or actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy. The District has a grievance procedure available to those students, staff or patrons that believe s/he was subject to discrimination based upon any of the above factors. For further information regarding the District’s policies regarding equal educational participation and the procedures for filing of grievance, please contact Mr. Murphy, the District’s designated non-discrimination coordinator at the Unit office.
SCHOOL STUDENT RECORDS NOTIFICATION STATEMENT
The principal is the official record custodian of Mt. Olive High School.
The District maintains two types of school records for each student: permanent record and temporary record. These records may be integrated.
The permanent record shall include:
Basic identifying information, including the student’s name and address, birth date and place, gender, and the names and addresses of the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s)
Academic transcripts, including grades, class rank, graduation date, grade level achieved, and scores on college entrance examinations
Attendance record
Accident and health reports
Record of release of permanent record information in accordance with 105 ILCS 10/6(c)
Scores received on all State assessment tests administered at the high school level (that is, grades 9 through 12)
The permanent record may include:
Honors and awards received
School-sponsored activities and athletics
No other information shall be kept in the permanent record. The permanent record shall be maintained for at least
60 years after the student graduated, withdrew, or transferred.
All information not required to be kept in the student permanent record is kept in the student temporary record and must include:
A record of release of temporary record information in accordance with 105 ILCS 10/6(c)
Scores received on the State assessment tests administered in the elementary grade levels (that is, kindergarten through grade 8)
Information regarding serious infractions (that is, those involving drugs, weapons, or bodily harm to another) that resulted in expulsion, suspension, or the imposition of punishment or sanction
Information provided under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act (325 ILCS 5/8.6), including any final finding report received from a Child Protective Service Unit
Completed home language survey
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The temporary record may include:
Family background information
Intelligence test scores, group and individual
Aptitude test scores
Reports of psychological evaluations, including information on intelligence, personality and academic information obtained through test administration, observation, or interviews
Elementary and secondary achievement level test results
Participation in extracurricular activities, including any offices held in school-sponsored clubs or organizations
Honors and awards received
Teacher anecdotal records
Other disciplinary information
Special education files, including the report of the multidisciplinary staffing on which placement or nonplacement was based, and all records and tape recordings relating to special education placement hearings and appeals
Verified reports or information from non-educational persons, agencies, or organizations
Verified information of clear relevance to the student’s education
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Illinois Student Records Act afford parents/guardians and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:
1.
The right to inspect and copy the student’s education records within 15 school days of the day the District receives a request for access.
The degree of access a student has to his or her records depends on the student’s age. Students less than 18 years of age have the right to inspect and copy only their permanent record. Students 18 years of age or older have access and copy rights to both permanent and temporary records. Parents/guardians or students should submit to the Building Principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) or student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The District charges $.35 per page for copying but no one will be denied their right to copies of their records for inability to pay this cost.
These rights are denied to any person against whom an order of protection has been entered concerning a student (105 ILCS 5/10-22.3c and 10/5a, and 750 ILCS 60/214(b)(15).
2.
The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent(s)/ guardian(s) or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, irrelevant, or improper.
Parents/guardians or eligible students may ask the District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate, misleading, irrelevant, or improper. They should write the Building Principal or records custodian, clearly identify the record they want changed, and specify the reason.
If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parents/guardians or eligible student, the
District will notify the parents/guardians or eligible student of the decision and advise him or her of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3.
The right to permit disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the FERPA or Illinois School Student Records Act authorizes disclosure without consent.
Disclosure is permitted without consent to school officials with legitimate educational or administrative interests.
A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School
Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or any parent(s)/guardian(s) or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student has enrolled or intends to enroll, as well as to any person as specifically required by State or
10

federal law. Before information is released to these individuals, the parents/guardians will receive prior written notice of the nature and substance of the information, and an opportunity to inspect, copy, and challenge such records.
When a challenge is made at the time the student’s records are being forwarded to another school to which the student is transferring, there is no right to challenge: (1) academic grades, or (2) references to expulsions or outof-school suspensions.
Disclosure is also permitted without consent to: any person for research, statistical reporting or planning, provided that no student or parent(s)/guardian(s) can be identified; any person named in a court order; appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons; and juvenile authorities when necessary for the discharge of their official duties who request information before adjudication of the student.
4.
The right to a copy of any school student record proposed to be destroyed or deleted.
Student records are reviewed every 4 years or upon a student’s change in attendance centers, whichever occurs first.
5.
The right to prohibit the release of directory information concerning the parent’s/ guardian’s child.
Throughout the school year, the District may release directory information regarding students, limited to:
Name
Address
Gender
Grade level
Birth date and place
Parents’/guardians’ names and addresses
Academic awards, degrees, and honors
Information in relation to school-sponsored activities, organizations, and athletics
Major field of study
Period of attendance in school
Any parent/guardian or eligible student may prohibit the release of any or all of the above information by delivering a written objection to the Building Principal within 30 days of the date of this notice. No directory information will be released within this time period, unless the parents/guardians or eligible student is specifically informed otherwise.
A photograph of an unnamed student is not a school record because the student is not individually identified.
The District shall obtain the consent of a student’s parents/guardians before publishing a photograph or videotape of the student in which the student is identified.
6.
Congress has passed legislation, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and the National Defense Authorization Act
for Fiscal Year 2002, requires secondary school receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 to provide equal access to students and directory information upon request by military recruiters. This directory information is name, address, and telephone listing of juniors and seniors. It is the same information provided t opost secondary institutions and to prospective employers. Parents may opt out of providing this information by filing out a form with the high school’s guidance department within the first two weeks of the first semester of enrollment of the current school year. This must be renewed each year. Parents must revoke this form in writing in order for directory information to be released.
7.
The right contained in this statement: No person may condition the granting or withholding of any right, privilege or benefits or make as a condition of employment, credit, or insurance the securing by any individual of any information from a student’s temporary record which such individual may obtain through the exercise of any right secured under State law.
8.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington DC 20202-4605
9. When a student transfers to another District, and upon request of either the parent or the transferring district, a copy of all permanent records will be provided to the transferring district. Certain temporary records may be
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transferred, also. The No Child Left Behind Act requires the transfer of disciplinary records to the transferring school.
POWERSCHOOL
Students and parents are encouraged to track a student’s attendance and grades through Mt. Olive Community Unit District
#5’s student management system Powerschool. Students and parents will be given a user name and password to access their information. The website for Powerschool is: http://ps.mtoliveschools.org/public
BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS
The Mt. Olive Board of Education has adopted policies and procedures relating to behavior interventions for students who are eligible for special education services. A copy of the District’s policy and procedures can be obtained by contacting Mr.
Murphy at the Unit office.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
An extensive special education program exists for eligible students. Parent’s who believe that their child may require special services should contact the building principal. The building principal will have available the procedural safeguards for students requiring special education and related services.
QUALIFICATIONS OF STAFF
All Mt. Olive teachers and classroom assistants are qualified for their respective positions. Any questions regarding staff member qualifications should be directed to the Superintendent of Schools.
DEFINITION OF CREDIT
A.
A unit of credit is received for the successful completion of one year’s work. Courses earn one-half (½) unit of credit per semester.
B.
There are three classes that receive one-quarter (¼) credit. They are: Driver Education, Physical Education, and Guided
Study.
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION
A.
General requirements:
1. 4 years minimum of high school attendance.
2.
22 units of credit.
B.
Specific requirements in accordance to graduation year:
C.
Transfer Student Credits
The number of credits required for graduation for transfer students will be determined by adding together the following items:
1.
The average number of credits that must be earned per semester to be on schedule for graduation at the previous school times the number of semesters of attendance at that school.
2.
The average number of credits that must be earned per semester to be on schedule for graduation at Mt. Olive
High School times the number of semesters of attendance at Mt. Olive.
3.
In order to receive a diploma from Mt. Olive High School, a transfer student must be enrolled for the entire 2 nd semester of the student’s senior year.
STUDENT CLASSIFICATION
A.
Seniors have earned at least 13.5 credits and completed three or more years of high school.
B.
Juniors have earned at least 9 credits and completed two or more years of high school.
C.
Sophomores have earned at least 4.5 credits and completed one year of high school.
D.
Freshmen have been promoted from 8 th
grade.
Grade Classification is only figured once per year (August). Students may not skip grades based upon credits to move forward from their original grade.
REQUIREMENTS FOR DRIVERS EDUCATION
Students must have passed eight courses over the previous 2 semesters.
GENERAL CURRICULUM INFORMATION
1.
The curriculum guide can be found at www.mtoliveschools.org
.
2.
Students need 22 credits to meet graduation requirements.
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COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Subject
English
HS REQ (years)
4.0
Math
Science
US History
Government
Social Studies Elective
3.0
2.0
1.0
.5
.5
Health
Bus. & Tech (Cons. Educ)
Physical Education
.5
.5
4.0
Keyb/Comp Cpts
Dr. Educ.
Foreign Lang/Music/Art/VocEduc
Pass US/IL Const. Tests
Take Prairie State Achievement Exam (11 th
)
1.0
.5
MAKE-UP CREDITS/ALTERNATIVE COURSES
Deficiencies
A.
Students may gain credit for graduation through alternative courses only if it is to replace a failure. All courses to make-up credit must be planned with a counselor and approved by the high school principal. Students may also take alternative courses in subject areas with specific graduation requirements to facilitate moving through Mt. Olive High
School’s course sequences or to enhance their preparation for more difficult courses. These courses will be placed on the student’s transcript but will be counted only as electives and may not be used to fulfill any requirements for graduation. The principal may waive or adjust this policy to meet the needs of unique or special situations.
B.
In no case may alternative classes be used to meet over fifty (50) percent of the graduation requirements in either the individual subject areas or total credits for graduation. Transfer students will be expected to earn at least 50% of their credits either at Mt. Olive High School, or from other properly accredited high schools or home school programs.
C.
Alternative course credit will be granted for only one class per semester for ninth, tenth, and 11 th
graders during the school year and for no more than two classes during the summer. Seniors may request permission to take more than two classes per term in order to meet graduation requirements. Classes must be planned with a counselor and be approved by the principal.
D.
Since students must successfully complete a four (4) year English requirement to graduate, a student who fails an
English course is in jeopardy of not graduating in four years. To address this requirement, students who have failed a course may choose to continue the prescribed sequence while repeating a failed course. Other options to fulfill the
English requirement in four (4) years would be to successfully complete a pre-approved English summer school course, a pre-approved IVHS course, or a pre-approved correspondence course. Students are responsible for any costs for these options. A student may not enroll in more than two (2) English classes concurrently. This includes Mt. Olive High
School courses and any alternative courses, i.e., correspondence or summer school.
E.
In general, alternative courses are acceptable for credit if they meet the following:
1.
The course is given by an institution accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary
Schools;
2.
The student assumes responsibility for all fees;
3.
The course is approved in advance by the High School Principal; and
4.
The course meets all other requirements in this section.
COLLEGE DAY
Colleges across the state offer college visits during non-attendance days (Columbus Day, Veteran’s Day, etc.). It is highly encouraged for MOHS students to attend these events. Seniors are permitted one college day. College days must be prearranged at least one day in advance, and must be approved by the guidance counselor or principal. The principal may grant additional college days due to special circumstances.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
A.
Course changes may be made on a limited basis ONLY DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL AND ONLY
WITH PARENTAL PERMISSION. Mid-year adjustments will be strictly limited to absolutely necessary changes. It should be noted, however, that failure in the first semester of a yearly class is not in itself sufficient reason for dropping a class. However, priority will be given to teacher recommendations for adjustments on students experiencing academic difficulties.
STUDENT SCHEDULES
A.
Full-time students are required to take 7 classes each semester.
B.
Athletic Eligibility

Full-time students must be passing 4 core classes subjects to be eligible to compete each week.
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C.
Prerequisites - refer to course description.
D.
Students will have a 31minute Study/Skills/Homeroom period every day to work on instructional strategies, attend meetings and assemblies, collect make-up work, complete make-up tests and discuss class work with teachers
STUDENT PROGRAMS
A.
College Prep Program
1.
This program implies a concentration of subjects selected from areas of English, foreign language, social studies, science, and mathematics.
2.
Students should become aware of college admission policies and costs by utilizing counselor services and material in the Career Information Center.
3.
The Illinois Board of Higher Education recommends high school background courses including the following:
English
Math
- 4 units
- 4 units
Social Studies - 3 units
Foreign Lang. - 2 units
The Illinois Board of Higher Education requires the following courses for admission to state schools:
English -4 units
Math -3 units (starting with Algebra I – may include computer program)
Social Studies -3 units
Science (lab) -3 units
Electives: -2 units of foreign language, music,
TOTAL:
art, or vocational education
15 UNITS
4.
Always check the catalog of the college you are considering for specific admission requirements.
5.
Refer to specific departmental suggestions at the end of each department’s course listings.
6.
College Bound Students a.
As sophomores, you should take the PLAN exam. This test serves as a review and predictor of scores for the ACT test. b.
As juniors, you should consider taking the PSAT/NMSQT exam. This is a review and predictor of the SAT exam in addition to being the first step in the National Merit Scholarship Competition. c.
The ACT will be taken in April of the junior year as part of the new Illinois PSAE testing program.
Registration forms for retakes of the ACT are available in the Guidance Office. d.
The SAT is required by some private colleges and is usually taken early in the senior year.
7.
Student athletes interested in Division I, II, and III schools, must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility
Clearinghouse. To be certified by the Clearinghouse you must: a.
Graduate from high school, b.
Earn a GPA of at least 2.5 in a core curriculum of 13 academic courses during grades 9-12. See your counselor for specific requirements, c.
Earn a composite of at least 17 on the ACT or a combined score of at least 700 on the SAT. Student athletes should request a Student Release Form from the counselor.
B.
Access to Program
Mt. Olive High School does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, race, national origin, sex, religion or disability.
GRADING POLICY
A.
Weighted Grade Policy
Grade point averages are used as a measure of academic achievement.
Weighted grades are needed because they directly impact grade point averages (GPA’s) and they recognize and help to adjust for the differences in the difficulty level of certain courses. This policy will be used for determining GPA for
Honor Roll and official transcripts.
B.
Classification of Courses
Courses will be recommended for placement on a particular level by the department in which the course is taught. The final decision on classification of courses will be made by a committee made up of the principal, the guidance counselor, and a representative of each department.
Weighted Courses
Advanced Math
Anatomy & Physiology
Calculus
Chemistry
Comp 111
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Comp 112
Physics
Spanish III & IV
Regular Courses
All courses in the curriculum not listed as Weighted
C.
Grades at Mt. Olive High School will be reported on the following scale:
A 90-100
B 80-89
C 70-79
D 60-69
F 0-59
The Semester Grade: The final semester grade shall be based upon the two nine weeks’ grades, and the semester exam, if taken If an exempt student takes the exam in hopes of raising their semester grade and the test does not accomplish this or decreases the student’s grade it will not be counted against the student. The semester exam shall count 20% (1/5) toward the final semester grade. Each of the nine weeks grades will count 40% (2/5).
GRADE SCALE FOR DETERMINING GPA’S
Regular Classes
A = 4
Weighted Classes
A = 5
B = 3
C = 2
D = 1
B = 4
C = 3
D = 2
F = 0 F = 0
*All grades of the same letter with or without a “+” or “-“ will earn the same numerical value ie. “A+”, “A” and “A-“all earn a 4.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT HONOR ROLL
At the end of each grading period a scholastic honor roll is announced. A student who carries his basic subjects with an average of 3.00 or more will be placed on the school’s “Honor Roll”, provided no grade is less than a “C” in any course. The following courses are not used in calculating the GPA: Driver’s Education, Physical Education, and Pass/Fail Courses.
REPORT CARDS & D/F SLIPS
Grade cards are completed and made available to students and parents at the end of each nine-week period (quarter).
D/F slips are issued halfway through each nine-week period. D/F slips are issued to parents to inform them of their students’ status halfway through the quarter. They are sometimes sent to point out good performance. However, they are always sent if students are in danger of failing in their course work. Parents are encouraged to contact individual teachers or guidance personnel when problems exist.
PASS-FAIL OPTION
Some elective courses may be indicated as using the pass/fail grading system. These courses will not figure into GPA and
Class Rank.
DRESS CODE
The dress code is in effect at all times in the building as well as at school related activities and practices. The dress code of your school is one that allows you and your parents or guardians to select your own responsible style of dress. We do insist, however, that you meet the following criteria:

Students should be neat and clean.

Students should not wear clothing or accessories that will impair their health or safety or serve as a distraction for others.

Students should not wear clothing or accessories that display drug or alcohol advertisements or names, profane language, vulgar statements, hate messages, sexual innuendos, tobacco ads, death, suicide, or violent messages.

No masks, hoods, hats, or other forms of head cover or sunglasses are allowed to be worn in the building.

Bare midriff tops, halter tops, short shorts (shorts should be mid-finger to finger tip length with hands at the sides), mini-skirts (skirts must be at least mid finger length), open mesh clothing without proper undergarments, or shirts that are too revealing are not allowed. Shirts and blouses should cover the upper shoulders (from neck to just above the upper triceps and bicep) and be long enough at the waist so that no skin appears between the shirt
15

and blouse and pants or skirt when sitting or bending over at the waist or squatting down at a locker.

Holes in clothing in inappropriate places are not allowed. Holes may not be above mid-finger length.

Slacks/jeans are to be worn at a level that does not expose undergarments and/or body parts.

Shoes must be worn at all times.

Students are not to wear or display any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, signal, or other item commonly associated with membership in or affiliation with a gang or secret society.

Students are not allowed to wear pajamas or other types of bedroom wear to school unless on specified days.
Students in violation of the dress code for the first time:
1.
Will wear clothes provided or secure appropriate clothing from home
2.
Will receive a written warning
Students in violation of the dress code for the second time:
1.
Will wear clothes provided or secure appropriate clothing from home
2.
Will receive a detention
Students in violation of the dress code for the third time:
1.
Will wear clothes provided or secure appropriate clothing from home
2.
Will receive a detention, an In-School Supervision, or a Saturday School depending on the number and the type of violations
Students in violation of the dress code for any additional times:
1.
May be considered guilty of gross misconduct and may be suspended from school
 Note: Due to safety and security concerns school administration reserves the right to change and/or adapt rules accordingly to promote a healthy environment and benefit students and staff. Also, any student in violation of the dress code will be required to remain in the In-School-Supervision room until they are dressed in accordance with the dress code.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Attendance and academic performance are closely related. Regular attendance is essential as a student misses an important part of his/her instruction when not in school. All students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time for class in order to benefit to the fullest from the instructional program. The high school attendance policies are designed to develop student punctuality, self-discipline, and responsibility. It is for these reasons that the Board of Education has adopted the following attendance policy:
I.
Six Absences Policy
Students should not be absent from a class more than six times each semester. If a student is absent from a class in excess of this allotted number:
A.
After the sixth absence the student will continue to attend the class but will receive a 0 (zero) on all work
(homework, work sheets, quizzes, tests, etc.) for each class missed beyond the sixth absence unless the absence is verified with a doctor’s note defined in Section II Exempted Absences part D.
B.
Students must supply the office with a doctor’s note within 15 calendar days of the absence. Copies will be made for distribution to teachers.
*SCHOOL CODE
105 ILCS 5/10-20.9a; 5/10-20.5; 5-24-24
*CASE LAW
Morgan, V. B.O.E. of Trico C.U.S.D. #176, 22 ILL. App. 3D 241, 1974
Knight, V. B.O.E. of Tri Point C.U.S.D. #6J, 38 ILL. App. 3d 603, 1976
Hammer, V. B.O.E. of Township H. S. Dist #113, 66 ILL. App. 3d 7, 1978
A student may appeal, in writing, to the principal if the student feels events beyond his/her control have caused him/her to exceed the six class periods allowable absence. A hearing on the appeal will be conducted as soon as possible following receipt of the written appeal. An Appeals Board composed of the principal and teachers involved, will review the appeal and return a ruling. The principal, student, or parent has the right to appeal the findings of the Appeals Board to the
Superintendent of Schools whose decision may also be appealed to the Board of Education.
II.
Exempted Absences
All absences from a class, except those listed below, will count towards the six allotted class periods. The absences, which will not count toward the six periods are:
A.
Participation in a school-sponsored activity,
B.
Suspension for disciplinary reasons,
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C.
Weather conditions which prohibit the normal operation of school buses,
D.
All illness verified by a doctor or a Christian Science practitioner (as listed in the Christian Science Journal).
Verification should consist of one of the following: (1) note from the doctor indicating that an appointment with the student was held by him/her, (2) note from the doctor indicating that he/she dispensed or prescribed medication for the student, or (3) a letter from the doctor explaining an extended illness for which the student is receiving medical attention under the doctor’s care.
1.
A note from the doctor, which only says that a student was sick at home, is not acceptable.
2.
Notes and letters from doctors verifying illnesses are due in the attendance office when the student returns to school. In no case will they be accepted more than 15 calendar days after the absence.
E. College visitation days approved by the Principal. Arrangements must be made in advance with the Guidance
Department.
F. Verified attendance at a confirmation class.
G. When attendance is prohibited because of the tenents of the student’s religious faith
F. The principal may add to this list if extenuating, or unique situations occur.
III. Attendance Intervention
It is our goal to work with parents and students in a positive manner to assure that students are well prepared for the future. Teachers will monitor student attendance closely. If appropriate, the Attendance Assistance Officer, Principal, counselor, or teacher will be asked to assist the family in developing a plan to insure better attendance.
IV. Procedure in Case of Absence
A.
A parent or guardian should notify the school by 11:00 a.m. whenever their child is absent from school. A call should be made for each day of absence unless the office has been notified of an extended illness. It will be assumed that the student is truant unless a call has been received. Mt. Olive High School may attempt to contact the parent and to verify a student’s absence if the office has not received a call by 11:00 a.m. If a parent does not have access to a phone, a signed note stating the reason for the absence must be presented to the office upon return.
B.
Students who expect to be absent for two or more days should request assignments. Contact the school secretary.
C.
Students who expect to be absent two or more weeks due to a serious medical condition should contact the
Guidance Office to arrange tutoring.
V. Pre-Arranged Absences
A student may obtain a pre-arranged absence when he/she knows he/she will be absent in the immediate future. Prearranged absences, other than those listed in section A, D, and E of Part II, count toward the five allowable classes per semester under the attendance policy.
VI. Leaving School During the Day
Any student leaving school during the day must first get permission from a member of the office staff and secondly must sign out on the sheet provided in the office. If a student becomes ill or has an accident they must report that fact to the teacher in charge, and then proceed to the office. Office personnel will contact appropriate health professionals and/or parents. An ill or hurt student must follow the proper procedure for leaving school. Students leaving school without completing the proper checkout procedures should expect to be disciplined.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
PAGERS, BEEPERS, RADIO TELE-COMMUNICATION DEVICES – will not be permitted in school. If a student brings them to school, they will be confiscated and the student will be disciplined.
CELL PHONES, CAMERA PHONES & DIGITAL CAMERAS
Cellular phones, camera phones and digital cameras may be brought into the building for student convenience and use before and/or after school. They must be turned off and kept in the student’s locked locker during the school hours of 8:10 a.m. to
3:15 p.m. Carrying or using a cellular phone, camera phone or digital camera during the school day will result in the item being confiscated and stored in the high school office. The student will also receive the following discipline:
1 st Offense = After-school detention (3:15 – 3:45 p.m.)
2 nd
Offense =
3 rd Offense =
2 hour Saturday School assignment (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.)
4 hour Saturday School assignment (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
Additional Offenses = Additional offenses may lead to Out-Of-School Suspension(s)
The use of cellular phones, camera phones or digital cameras in a way that disrupts the educational process, is defamatory or illegal will result in an increased penalty based upon the severity of the offense. In most cases, the student will be able to pick up the confiscated item in the high school office at the conclusion of the school day (3:15 p.m.).
17

MUSIC DEVICES, PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS, VIDEO GAMES, ETC
Music devices, Personal Digital Assistants, Video Games, and other devices that use headsets or create no sound will be permitted before and after school. They must be turned off and stored in the student’s locked locker during the school hours of 8:10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Use of these items during the school day will result in the item being confiscated and stored in the high school office. The student will also receive the following discipline:
1 st Offense =
2 nd Offense =
After-school detention (3:20 – 3:45 p.m.)
2 hour Saturday School assignment (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.)
3 rd
Offense =
Additional Offenses =
4 hour Saturday School assignment (8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
Additional offenses may lead to Out-Of-School Suspension(s)
The use of music devices, personal digital assistants, video games, and other devices in a way that disrupts the educational process, is defamatory or illegal will result in an increased penalty based upon the severity of the offense. In most cases, the student will be able to pick up the confiscated item in the high school office at the conclusion of the school day (3:15 p.m.).
TELEPHONE USE
Students will be allowed to use the school telephone ONLY IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS. These are classified as illness, request by a teacher, or forgotten lunch money. Forgotten books, homework, musical instruments, etc. are not emergency calls. Students will not be allowed to use the phone because of disciplinary reason unless instructed to do so by administration. Students remaining after school should arrange transportation in advance. Activity-ending times and activity locations are announced in advance. Student phone calls will cost twenty-five cents.
TELEPHONE MESSAGES
Mt. Olive High School will not interrupt classes to relay messages or give information to students unless it is an emergency situation. The office will take messages and try to give them to students at a time that does not constitute a disruption to the educational process. However, it is not the office’s responsibility if the message is not conveyed.
PLAGIARISM
Plagiarism, defined in an instructional setting occurs when a writer deliberately uses someone else’s language, ideas, or other original (not common-knowledge) material without acknowledging the source. (WPA definition) Plagiarism cases will be handled on a case by case basis. Penalties may range from point reduction to disciplinary action, based on the severity of the plagiarism.
SENIOR FINAL EXAM EXEMPTION
Any senior who has received no discipline referrals during the second semester which resulted in disciplinary action (Except for referrals for tardies), and that have not been absent more than 3 days in that particular class (excluding Exempted
Absences) may be excused from second semester final exams in any courses in which they are earning an “A”. All other students are required to take semester examinations.
P.E. UNIFORMS
Students are required to wear appropriate clothing and shoes for P.E. classes. Part of a student’s grade in this course is based upon participation and students that do not have appropriate clothing will not receive their participation points and may face disciplinary action. P.E. teachers will further explain appropriate clothing and shoes to their students.
TEXTBOOKS
Student textbooks are very expensive and it is, therefore, necessary students accept responsibility for the care of the books assigned to them. In order to be sure that students are not held responsible for damage to books, which happened before they received them, a Damaged Book Report Form is available in each classroom. Students have the first 10-class days to look over their books and report existing damage. The completed form will be signed by the student and their teacher and a copy will be kept by each of them. At the time when the book is then returned, the student will not be held responsible for the preissue damage. If a student is held responsible for damage to a book, he/she will pay for rebinding if the book can be rebound or replacement cost if it cannot.
UNPAID SCHOOL FEES
We ask students and/or parents to pay off any unpaid school debt(s). Students will not be allowed to participate in school sponsored activities that require a fee until they have made the team and that fee is paid in advance.
*Book Rental/Lab Fees
*Lunch/Breakfast Fees
*Library Fines
*Extracurricular Fees
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GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SERVICES:
The chief aim of the Guidance Department is to assist students so they will be well prepared for life after high school. A counselor is available to help all students. Services include helping students: 1) select high school courses; 2) research information about colleges, community colleges, technical/trade schools, scholarships and financial aid; 3) gather information about careers and job opportunities; 4) understand and adjust to problems with teachers, parents, or other students; 5) make necessary changes to class schedules; 6) work toward resolving personal issues and social concerns; 7) register and take standardized tests, PSAE, and college entrance exams; 8) interpret test scores; 9) enroll in high school, withdraw, or transfer to another high school. College and Technical/Trade School applications, brochures, and information regarding entrance requirements, as well as procedures for applying for admission to post-secondary schools can be obtained in the Guidance Office.
ASSEMBLIES:
Assemblies are occasionally scheduled, and, as such, are designed to be educational as well as entertaining experiences. They provide one of the few opportunities in school to learn formal audience behavior. Regardless of the type of program, courtesy demands that the student body be respectful and appreciative. In live entertainment, unlike radio, television, or movies, the performers are very conscious of their audience. Talking, whispering, whistling, stomping of feet and booing are discourteous. Yelling is appropriate only at pep assemblies:
MAKE-UP ASSIGNMENTS:
It is the student’s responsibility to request work when they are absent. Students who are absent for any reason, will be required to make up work missed in each class. A day’s absence does not excuse a student from responsibility for all recitations on the day of his/her return. The required assignment’s due the day a student is absent, must be turned in the day the student returns to school. For example: If a student is absent on Monday, the materials that were previously assigned for Monday are due on the date the student returns to school. It is the students’ responsibility to turn this work into the teacher.
For every day absent, the student has a day to make-up work assigned while absent, starting on the day the student returns to school . For example: If a student is absent on Monday and returns on Tuesday, all the assignments from Monday are due on Wednesday. If you have other questions regarding the Make-Up policy, please contact the high school office.
Only in extreme cases of prolonged absence will more than one week be allowed for work to be made up unless the school office grants permission (All make up work in these extreme cases must be turned in by the end of the grading period ).
Grades will be withheld in case make-up work is not completed on time.
FIRE DRILLS/SAFETY PROCEDURES
Fire drills at regular intervals by law are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. The teacher in each classroom will give the students instructions. Severe weather alarms are also to be followed according to the instructions in each room and by the teacher. This also applies to earthquake alarms.
CLOSED CAMPUS
Students are to remain in their assigned building and on the school’s grounds continuously from the time of reporting to the time of departure for the day, unless permission to leave is granted by the building principal or a designee or the student is otherwise excused.
PARKING LOT AND STUDENT VEHICLES
Legal student drivers must park their vehicles in the south parking lot or in the marked area in the front (north) and side (east) of the high school gym. Students are NOT to be in cars during the school day except when entering or leaving the campus.
Vehicles should be locked at all times. A parking fee will be imposed by the board of education and registration of the vehicle must occur with the office prior to being able to park on school grounds by a student.
Student vehicles may be searched if administration has reasonable suspicion.
LOCKERS
Each student is assigned a locker for the storage of books and equipment. It is the student’s responsibility to see that his locker is kept locked and in order at all times. Since lockers are a permanent part of the building, students are expected to
19

keep them in good, usable condition. The school is not liable for losses incurred from lockers. You are to use only the locker assigned to you by the office.
Note: Lockers are school property, and may be searched by school personnel if deemed necessary.
Students are discouraged from “sharing” lockers with others. Students should report problems with their lockers to the office. Locker access between classes is not an acceptable excuse for being tardy. Students should “plan ahead” for classroom requirements to avoid being tardy.
ADMINISTERING MEDICATION TO STUDENTS
The purpose of administering medications in school is to help each child to maintain an optimal state of health that may enhance his-her educational plan. The medication shall be those required during school hours that are necessary to provide the student access to the educational program.
1.
Only those medications which are necessary to maintain the child in school and must be given during school day shall be administered.
2. All medications shall be in their original containers or an appropriately labeled container from the pharmacy.
3. Use of any medications require a note from the parent stating permission for the medication to be given at school, name of medication, reason for the medication, dosage, and time the medication is to be given.
4.
Any medication that is to be given for an extended period of time, on a routine basis, will also need a doctor’s order for administration at school and permission to self-medicate with supervision.
5. All medication, except those requiring refrigeration, will be kept in a cabinet with a lock.
6.
A daily record of medication administered will be kept in the nurse’s office.
7. District 5 retains the right to reject requests for administration of medication.
8. If a student needs to carry his/her own medication, the Parent’s Petition for Self-Medication and the Physician’s
Statement of Need of Self-Medication will need to be signed.
STUDENT COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES
Decisions made by school personnel—such sponsors, teachers, principals—which students believe are unfair or in violation of pertinent policies of the Board or individual school rules, may be appealed to the school principal or a designated representative. To appeal, students will contact the principal’s office and provide their name, the issue, and the reason for their appeal on the printed form available at the office within two school days. The appeal will usually be decided confidentially and promptly, preferably within two school days.
However, if the principal does not make a decision within two school days following the date of complaint, students or parents may appeal at the time by contacting the superintendent or his designee. The information provided should include the student’s name, the school, and a description of the problem.
An investigation and decision will be made within two school days and communicated to the school principal and student by telephone. A written copy of the decision will also be sent to the student and principal.
Should the student(s) or parents find the superintendent’s decision unacceptable they may ask the superintendent to place them on the board meeting agenda in order that they may make an appeal to the board of education.
BICYCLES
Students who ride bicycles to school must follow the Illinois Rules of the Road, just as drivers of powered vehicles must.
Bicycles are to be parked in the designated racks. Bicycles should be locked at all times.
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VISITORS
The school policy is to allow only those visitors who have legitimate business with the school. Guests and visitors (including parents and guardians) must register in the office. Parents requesting to visit a student’s classroom must make arrangements with the teacher in advance. Students wishing to bring a guest to school must obtain prior approval from the Principal and secure a pass. We request that visitors not attend during lunch periods. Visitors are expected to leave promptly when their business in concluded.
Student visitors are discouraged and have on occasion attributed to a less than acceptable academic environment. Absolutely no student visitors will be allowed to visit Mt. Olive High School unless prior permission has been granted through the office and then only under special circumstances.
State law provides that teachers and other employees may request any person entering a public school building to identify themselves and the purpose of this entry. A person who refuses to provide such information is guilty of a petty offense and upon conviction shall be fined not more than $100 (Section 24-25 of the School Code of Illinois.)
BUS POLICIES
1.
Be courteous to the driver, monitor, and other students.
2.
Please remain seated on the bus.
3.
The bus driver may assign seats on the bus.
4.
Keep your hands and head inside the bus.
5.
No profanity is allowed on the bus.
6.
Please help keep the bus clean.
7.
No food or beverages are allowed on the bus.
8.
Violence is prohibited and will be subject to immediate dismissal from bus riding privileges.
9.
No smoking, cigarettes, or lighters on the bus.
10.
Do not distract the bus driver, except in an emergency.
Please follow the rules. If you violate the rules you may be given a verbal warning or bus misconduct notice. The notice must be taken home for your parent(s) to sign acknowledging their awareness of the infraction before you may resume riding the bus. A copy of the bus misconduct notice is given to the principal. If a child receives 3 bus misconduct notices he/she will be suspended from riding the bus for three days; 4 notices result in the loss of bus riding privileges for four days; and, 5 bus misconduct notices will result in the loss of bus riding privileges for the remainder of the school year. These consequences may be accelerated at the discretion of the principal.
SEARCHING OF STUDENTS & LOCKERS
Searches of a student’s person, his or her personal possessions (including: locker, purse, duffel bag, etc.), shall be conducted by the principal, or his designee, if the principal has a reasonable basis for believing that the student is concealing material which is prohibited by federal, state, or local law or the provisions of the code of conduct.
School authorities are allowed to inspect and search places such as lockers, desks, parking lots, vehicles and other school property, as well as, personal effects left in those areas by students without notice to or consent of students and without search warrants. School authorities may request the assistance of law enforcement in conducting the searches.
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR STUDENTS OF MT. OLIVE UNIT SCHOOLS
Student Discipline: Prohibited Student Conduct:
Disciplinary action may be taken against any student guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct, including, but not limited to the following:
1.
Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling tobacco materials.
2.
Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages. Students who are under the influence of alcohol are not permitted to attend school or school functions, and are treated as if they have alcohol in their possession.
3.
Using, possessing, purchasing, or selling illegal drugs or controlled substances, look-a-like drugs and drug paraphernalia. Students who are under the influence of drugs are not permitted to attend school or school functions, and are treated as though they had drugs in their possession.
4.
Using, possessing, distributing, or selling explosives, firearms, knives, or any other object that can reasonably be considered a weapon.
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5.
Using or possessing electronic signaling and cellular radio telecommunication devices and laser pointers, unless authorized and approved by the building principal. Electronic signaling devices include pocket and all similar electronic paging devices and laser pointers that may be found on pens and key chains.
6.
Disobeying directives from staff members or school officials and/or rules and regulations governing student conduct.
7.
Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, or other comparable conduct toward anyone or urging other students to engage in such conduct.
8.
Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property or another person’s personal property.
9.
Unexcused absenteeism: the truancy statutes and board policy will be utilized for chronic and habitual truants.
10.
Being a member of or joining or promising to join, or becoming a member of, soliciting any other person to join, promise to join, or pledged to become a member of any non public school fraternity, sorority, secret society, or gang.
11.
Involvement in gangs or gang related activities, including the display of gang symbols or paraphernalia or colors.
12.
Engaging in any activity that constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function or is disruptive to school purposes and functions.
13.
No soda, snacks, etc. are allowed in any classroom, lab, or library during school hours unless approved by the building principal.
14.
Students shall not store unauthorized items at school.
15.
Students will be expected to dress and conduct themselves in such a manner that they will not disrupt the learning process of the school.
16.
Students shall not disrupt or obstruct in any way the lawful function of the school.
17.
Students shall not settle or attempt to settle personal differences, orally or physically, at the school or on the way to and from school.
18.
Any action not so stated that would be detrimental to the school, staff, programs, or activities would be subject to appropriate disciplinary action as determined by school administration.
19.
Punishment for violations of the student code of conduct will be determined by the school administration.
20.
Any student who is determined to have brought a weapon/firearm to school or a school function is required to be expelled for at least a period of not less than one year as per the Gun-Free School Act as condition of the school’s receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
21.
Students are accountable to the school for their conduct in school, on the way to and from school, on the playgrounds, in the lunchroom and cafeterias, during intermission and recess, and during extra-curricular activities.
22.
Students must have permission from the principal before leaving the school during school hours.
A.
Grade school students must have on file a note from their parent(s) granting the student permission to leave school during school hours.
B.
High school students are not allowed to leave school during school hours unless they have a signed note from their parent(s) on file granting permission to leave school. They MUST sign out in the office.
The only exceptions to this requirement are:
Seniors with seventh period study hall may leave the school. No such students are allowed to stay at school, in or around the premises, unless he or she is an athlete preparing for practice and is under the direct supervision of his or her coach.
Semester exams: Second semester seniors waiting at school between exam periods must remain in the classroom if they wish to study for their next exam or immediately upon finishing the exam leave the classroom and the building and not return until time for their next exam.
23.
Students will refrain from using profane or indecent language.
24.
Students shall not intentionally deface or damage school property, including buses, buildings, and grounds.
25.
Gambling on school grounds is forbidden
26.
Any student caught cheating during the school year on any assignment; test or quiz will receive a zero (0) for that work and a detention and will not be allowed to be a member of or will be removed from the National Honor Society.
In addition, other consequences as recommended by teachers and approved by the principal may be imposed.
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Because situations will occur throughout the school year that may not be covered in the above policy, the principal or his designee will have the authority to resolve all situations that may occur.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE RESPONSIBILITIES
Students, as citizens of the United States, are guaranteed certain individual rights and have corresponding individual responsibilities. Parents, teachers, and administrators have a responsibility, a duty to protect the rights of students while maintaining an educational atmosphere conducive to the teaching and learning process. The concept of balancing the rights of the individual with the rights of society is as valid in the educational community as in the larger community. There are certain responsibilities required of a citizen who is a student in school:
1.
To become informed of and adhere to reasonable rules and regulations established by your local school Board of
Education and implemented by school administrators and teachers;
2.
To respect the rights and individuality of other students, school administrators, and teachers;
3.
To refrain the libel, slanderous remarks, and obscenity in verbal and written expression;
4.
To dress and groom in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health, cleanliness, and safety;
5.
To be punctual and present in the regular or assigned school program;
6.
To refrain from gross disobedience or misconduct or misbehavior that materially and substantially disrupts the educational process;
7.
To maintain the best possible level of academic achievement;
8.
To respect the reasonable exercise of authority by school administrators and teachers in maintaining discipline in the school and at school-sponsored activities.
(Taken from Illinois State Board of Education 1979 publication, Students and Schools: Rights and Responsibilities)
DISCIPLINE - BEHAVIOR CODE
Primary Assumptions:
1.
This Discipline-Behavior Code is based on the idea that acceptable behavior is necessary in creating mature, responsible, and self-controlled individuals.
2.
Good discipline creates conditions favorable for efficient learning.
3.
Breaches of discipline are of a varied nature. Consequently, much has to be left to the judgement of the administrator involved with individual disciplinary cases.
4.
When administering punishment, the following measures shall be considered: a) The seriousness of the offense, b) The attitude and past behavior of student, c) The nature and severity of the punishment, d) The age and maturity of the student, e) The availability of effective means of discipline, f)
The influence of the student’s behavior and conduct on others.
5.
Incidents of disciplinary action may have an effect on the student being accepted in programs such, IVHS, Student
Leadership, Community Service, etc.
Purpose:
1.
To provide students with an informative guideline which will aid them in their pursuit of education,
2.
To provide parents with an understanding of the type of behavior expected of students in the school situation,
3.
To provide those concerned with the responsibility of student discipline and behavior a means of measuring the types, severity, and repetitions of violations. This will help them suggest and initiate actions designed to reduce the problem area.
This Guide is not designed to list all possible violations or all the possible consequences of unacceptable behavior. Listed are general rules in a logical order, with a general indication of the types of disciplinary actions that may occur in each set of circumstances. It is a guideline for the student, teacher, and administrator. Parents and students who would like a clarification of any aspect of this Guide are encouraged to contact the principal.
CLASSROOM MISCONDUCT
Classroom misconduct includes repeated disruptions, failure to do or complete assignments or failure to cooperate with the teacher and/or follow teacher-designed classroom rules.
The degree of misconduct and other factors will be considered before disciplinary action is taken. Repeated disruptions and willful misconduct will not be tolerated. When students are sent to the office by their teacher for a disciplinary reason, the following consequences may occur:
1.
The student may be sent back to class after a successful conference with the Principal;
2.
Noon detention may be assigned by the teacher;
3.
After-School Detention may be assigned;
4.
Suspension from class may be assigned. Students will spend the class period in the office and they are responsible to do all make-up work;
5.
A parent conference may be requested;
6.
In-School Supervision may be assigned;
7.
Saturday detentions may be assigned;
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8.
Out-of-school Suspension may be assigned.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS
Substitute teachers have a difficult task and students are expected to cooperate with them. In general, disciplinary measures assigned to students for misbehaving for a substitute teacher will be stringent. Students receiving a discipline referral from a substitute teacher may receive a Saturday School assignment or In-School Supervision.
ASSAULT AND BATTERY TOWARD STAFF MEMBERS, BOARD MEMBERS OR STUDENTS
Students guilty of assault will be assigned out-of-school suspension and/or a recommendation to the Board of Education for expulsion. In addition, civil authorities will be notified when appropriate.
SMOKING/TOBACCO USE
Students are not allowed to use or possess cigarettes or other tobacco products, or cigarette lighters, pipes, or other smoking paraphernalia in the building, on school grounds, in school-provided transportation, or at any school sponsored events. This includes student driven vehicles parked on school grounds. The same rules apply during extra-curricular activities, which occur during non-school hours. Students who fail to observe this regulation will receive out-of-school suspensions.
STUDENTS
RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES—DRUG ABUSE
Non-medical use of drugs is hazardous to the health of students. The illicit use, possession or distribution of drugs or lookalike drugs and drug paraphernalia is not permitted on school buses, in school buildings or on school grounds at any time.
This policy extends to all school sponsored and related activities as well as field trips and athletic and music trips, whether held before or after school, evenings or weekends. Students shall not be permitted to attend school when they are under the influence of illegal drugs. For the purpose of this policy, students who are under the influence shall be treated in the same manner as though they had drugs in their possession.
Students shall be advised of this policy in a manner deemed appropriate by the building principal. In addition, information concerning the effects and potential dangers involved in the illicit use of drugs shall be included in the curriculum in compliance with the law.
If a staff member finds a student to be illicitly using, possessing, under the influence of, or distributing drugs or look-alike drugs or drug paraphernalia in violation of this policy, the student shall be suspended and/or expelled. In addition, parents and juvenile authorities shall be notified promptly. In all cases, parents’ cooperation shall be sought. When a substance is determined to be an illicit drug, the identity of the student possessing or using the drug shall be given to the proper authorities for prosecution.
Electronic signaling devices found by the superintendent or his designee shall be confiscated anywhere within district facilities. The presence of such a device may be cause for further search for possession of drugs and appropriate discipline as established by the school board.
If there is a reason to believe that a student is using drugs illicitly at any time on or off school premises, the health counseling services of the school shall be made available to the student and his parents.
Organizations sponsoring activities within the school’s facilities outside of regular school hours shall be made aware of this policy and shall be expected to take appropriate disciplinary measures. Failure to do so could result in cancellation of that organization’s privilege to use district facilities.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY
Philosophy
As responsible members of society, we must join together to insure that our young people have a suitable environment to enhance their opportunity for an excellent education. The possession and use of alcohol or controlled substances is, by state statue, an illegal act. As such, these practices are detrimental to our educational atmosphere and will not be tolerated.
Policy
Therefore, we expect and shall encourage our teachers, parents and children to see that students will refrain from the following:
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1. Being under the influence of any intoxicating beverage or controlled substance while attending school, at any school activity, or while under the school’s supervision, in any manner.
2. Having in his/her possession (person, vehicle, locker, etc.) any alcoholic/intoxicating beverage or any controlled substance, transferring any intoxicating beverage or controlled substance, using and being under the influence of drugs or controlled substances or possessing or transferring drugs or controlled substances as defined above.
These rules will apply to all students while they are attending school, at any school activity, or while under the supervision of the school in any manner, including the noon hour or at athletic contests, etc.
Any student in violation of any part of this policy and referred to the principal by a parent, teacher, and other school employee, or community member shall be subject to the following measures:
A.
Probation
B.
Suspension up to ten (10) days
C.
Possible expulsion for the remainder of the school year( if deemed necessary)
D.
Treatment & counseling
E.
Police notification ( if necessary)
NOTE: Violations by athletes outside the regular school supervision will be dealt within the individual sport, according to the Extra- Curricular Activity Code.
The use of alcohol by any teacher, coach, sponsor, administrator, board member, or other staff member of any organized or quasi-organized school-related event or party will not be condoned. Any such event or party will not be held in an establishment whose main source of income is the sale of alcoholic beverages.
Adopted on 8-13-90 by the Board of Education
01 Student Welfare Services
The following services are provided by the School District:
1.
Health services supervised by a qualified school nurse.
2.
Educational and psychological testing services and the services of a psychologist as needed. In all cases, written permission to the administrator and a psychological examination must be obtained from the parent(s)/guardian(s). The results will be given to the parent(s)/guardian(s) accompanied by an interpretation, as well as to the appropriate professional staff.
3.
The services of a social worker provided that the parent(s)/guardian(s) informed consent is secured in advance.
4.
Guidance and counseling services directed by the Building Principal.
DEFIANCE AND DISRESPECT
Students who show disrespect towards any District #5 employees by talking back or refusing to follow any simple request may receive a detention, a Saturday School, an In-School Supervision, or an Out-of-School Suspension. The use of vulgar language will add to the severity of the disciplinary action taken.
FIGHTING
Every effort will be made to determine the cause of the confrontation, who initiated the fight, and what, if any, steps were taken to stop the fight. However, both combatants will be held responsible and will be disciplined. Discipline will consist of either Out-of-School Suspension or Saturday School (or some combination of both).

1 st offense –minimum (3) days Out-of-School Suspension

Additional offenses – (3 to 10) days Out-of-School Suspension

Repeated offenses may result in recommendation to the Board of Education for Expulsion.
NOTE: Students who excite, watch or initiate a fight may also be disciplined.
FIRE CRACKERS, SMOKE BOMBS, AND SIMILAR DEVICES
Any action, which endangers the safety and well being of others will not be tolerated. Possession or detonation of any type of explosive is cause for suspension or expulsion and possible report to legal authorities.
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FORGERY
Forged teacher passes or parent notes will result in severe disciplinary action.
GANGS
Articles of paraphernalia, printed materials, symbols, slogans, or anything else related to gang activity are not to be brought on school property or to school events. Such items will be confiscated and not returned. In addition, other disciplinary action may result and law enforcement authorities may be notified.
Students, who display graffiti, gang signs or tattoos will be disciplined and asked to remove or cover such symbols. Gang activity is any behavior, which displays evidence of membership in or affiliation with any gang. This includes: both verbal and non-verbal communication (graffiti, gestures, handshakes, colors, etc.) as well as the wearing of symbols, emblems, or other adornments associated with a gang or clothing characteristics associated with a gang. Gang activity includes any effort to recruit for or further the interest of a gang or to intimidate students on behalf of a gang.

1 st
offense - Out-of-School Suspension and parental notification. A parent conference is necessary for the student’s return to school.

Additional offenses - (3 to 10) Out-of-School Suspension days, depending on the severity of the infraction.

Repeated offenses - possible recommendation to the Board of Education for Expulsion.
HAZING OTHER STUDENTS
Hazing will not be tolerated. Students violating this rule will be assigned from 1 to 3 Saturday School assignments or suspended out of school.
PHYSICAL TOUCHING OR HARASSMENT
Students have a right to feel safe at school. They should not be harassed or touched in ways that make them feel uncomfortable. Depending on the severity of the violation, the following discipline may be assigned:

In-School Supervision, Saturday School assignment or counseling,

Out-of-School Suspension or a recommendation to the Board of Education for Expulsion.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment of students is prohibited. An employee, District agent, or student engages in sexual harassment whenever he/she makes unwelcome sexual advances, requests sexual favors, and engages in other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual or sex-based nature, imposed on the basis of sex, that:
1.
Denies or limits the provision of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or that makes such conduct a condition of a student’s academic status; or
2.
Has the purpose of effect of: a)
Substantially interfering with a student’s educational environment; b) Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment; c) Depriving a student of educational aid, benefits, services or treatment, or; d) Making submission to or rejection of such unwelcome conduct the basis for academic decisions affecting a student.
The terms “intimidating”, “hostile”, and “offensive” include conduct, which has the effect of humiliation, embarrassment, or discomfort. Examples of sexual harassment include: unwelcome touching, crude jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, teasing related to sexual characteristics, and spreading rumors related to a person’s alleged sexual activities
All instances of sexual harassment should be reported to school officials immediately. School officials will be diligent in the investigation and discipline of students engaging in activities of a sexually harassing nature. Discipline may range from a Saturday School assignment, out-of-school suspension, or possible recommendation for expulsion from school. In the event the administration recommends suspension or expulsion as a result of the student’s conduct, due process will be afforded the student in accordance with the district’s suspension/expulsion procedures.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION/ INAPPROPRIATE SEXUAL CONTACT
Students are asked to respect the rights of other people. Public displays of affection and/or any contact of a sexual nature are considered in poor taste and will not be tolerated. School administration will consider the extent and nature of the contact when determining the severity of disciplinary action.
While it is difficult to describe exactly what are unacceptable public displays of affection, face to face romantic embraces, touching of a sexual nature, and any form of kissing will result in disciplinary action.
STEALING/CHEATING
The value of the property or object taken will determine the severity of disciplinary action taken. Students may expect to receive In-School Supervision, Saturday School or Out-of-School Suspensions for stealing. Parents will be contacted.
Students may be referred to the police. Students are responsible for restitution.
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Students are responsible for doing their own work. Students involved in copying homework assignments, or cheating on a quiz or test will be given a zero and will also be disciplined.
THREATS TO STUDENTS, SCHOOL STAFF OR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBERS
Verbal or written threats to school personnel will result in an Out-of-School Suspension or a recommendation to the Board of
Education for Expulsion.
Verbal or written threats to students will result in immediate disciplinary action. The nature of the discipline will be based on the severity of the offense. Discipline may range from a Saturday School assignment, an Out-of-School Suspension or a recommendation to the Board of Education for Expulsion. Administration also reserves the right to contact the civil authorities if necessary.
TARDINESS/TRUANCY
Students need to realize that it is their responsibility to be on time. Good study habits are acquired through being punctual, having necessary study materials with them (pen, pencil, notebook, paper, books, etc.) and being in their classroom.
Students who are tardy will receive a detention, In-School Supervision, or a Saturday School. Continual patterns of tardiness may result in Out-Of-School Suspension. Discipline will be assigned according to the following guidelines: (Tardies will be tabulated per semester.) Every two (2) tardies will result in an After-School Detention. Multiple detentions will/may result in In-School Supervision or Saturday School assignment.
Any student who is absent without valid cause is considered TRUANT. The administration reserves the right to decide the validity of absences.
The following forms of absence are classified as truancies:
1.
Absences from school without the knowledge and consent of parents or school authorities;
2.
Leaving the building/school grounds during the school day without permission;
3.
Staying out of class without permission;
4.
Leaving a classroom without a hall pass number dependent upon hours missed.

1 st
offense = Saturday School assignments or In-School Supervision

Additional offenses = Saturday School assignment or In-School Supervision and referral to truancy program and law enforcement agencies.
**Repeating truancy may result in an Out-of-School Suspension and/or a recommendation to the Board of Education for Expulsion.
PROBATION
Probationary status may be assigned to students whose performance in academics, attendance, or behavior has been unsatisfactory. Students being placed on such status and their parents will be informed when students are assigned probation.
This will be considered the “final warning” and without notable progress in the problem area the student will be assigned to an alternative education program or expelled.
WRITTEN INAPPROPRIATE CLASSROOM MATERIAL/WRITTEN THREATS
Student assignments are made with the intent of assisting the student to achieve a specific educational objective or goal consistent with the goals and objectives of the school district. The classroom teacher is trained to determine the nature of an assignment most likely to assist the student to meet a specific instructional objective. The failure of a student to conform to the teacher’s directions and requirements regarding any class assignment must be considered deliberate disobedience and will result in the student receiving a failing grade for that assignment regardless of the merits of other factors. If the teacher determines that the student has also violated the restrictions against the use/discussion of obscenity, sexual promiscuity and/or the promotion or glorification of drug and alcohol use, violence/brutality or gang activity in the assignment, the matter will be turned over to the Administration and disciplinary action will result.
FALSE FIRE ALARM
Causing a false fire alarm is a serious matter.

1 st
offense = 5 days Out-of-School Suspension.

2 nd offense = recommendation to the Board of Education for Expulsion.
VANDALISM
Persons who deliberately damage or destroy school property will be suspended and/or expelled. In addition, students will be required to pay for, or work off the cost of replacing or restoring that, which has been damaged or destroyed.
VULGAR LANGUAGE/GESTURES
Indecent gestures, profanity and vulgar language are not to be used in school or on school property. Use of words, which sound like an obscenity, used in context of an obscenity, will be considered an obscenity.
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Students who do so may receive In-School Supervision, Saturday School or Out-of-School Suspension. Students who direct such behavior towards teachers and other school employees can expect to be suspended. Obscene magazines, pictures, photographs, etc. will be confiscated and not returned and other disciplinary action may result.
WEAPONS
No weapons of any kind should be brought to school or to school functions. Weapons will be confiscated and will not be returned. Disciplinary action will result in suspension and including a recommendation to the Board of Education for
Expulsion and, if necessary, the proper authorities will be notified.
OFFICE BEHAVIOR
Students who are in the office waiting to see the Principal are expected to be quiet and orderly. Disruptions will result in
After-School Detentions, In-School Supervision, or Saturday School assignments.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
These grounds for disciplinary action apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including, but not limited to:
1.
On school grounds before, during, and after school hours and at any other time when a school group is using the school
2.
Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event.
3.
Traveling to and from school or a school activity, function, or event.
4.
Anywhere, if the conduct may be reasonably considered to be a threat or attempted intimidation of a staff member, or an interference with school purposes, or interference in an education function.
DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
Disciplinary measures include:
1.
Detention.
2.
Personal counseling
3.
Withholding of privileges.
4.
Seizure of contraband.
5.
Suspension from school and all school-sponsored events for up to 10 days provided that the appropriate procedures are followed.
6.
Suspension of bus privileges provided that the appropriate procedures are followed.
7.
Expulsion from school and all school sponsored events provided that the appropriate procedures are followed.
8.
Notification of juvenile authorities whenever the conduct involves illegal drugs (controlled substances), look-a-likes, alcohol, or weapons.
9.
Notification of parents or guardians.
10.
Removal from the classroom.
11.
In-school suspension for a period not to exceed 5 school days. The building principal or a designee shall ensure that the student is properly supervised.
These steps are not necessarily in order and may be adjusted according to the principal or designee.
SOCIAL SUSPENSION
Students on Social Suspension may not attend or participate in any after school functions or activities. Students will be placed on Social Suspension for serious offenses or repeated offenses. In addition, students will be on Social Suspension for any days that they are suspended out of school. Students can also be socially suspended for inappropriate behavior while attending extra-curricular or co-curricular activities.
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DETENTION
Teachers will assign detentions for the noon detention periods in their room for minor classroom disturbances, or other problems that a teacher feels a detention is necessary. After-School Detentions will be held from 3:20 pm to 3:45 pm on
Tuesdays in a designated classroom.
It is the responsibility of the student to be prompt and follow all detention rules. Students will be allowed to reschedule a detention once for a good reason. This must be done by the student or a parent before the detention is to be served. If a student fails to serve an After-School Detention, he/she will receive an In-School Supervision or a Saturday School assignment. Students may not talk, sleep or engage in any other disruptive behavior in detention. All school policies remain in effect.
IN-SCHOOL SUPERVISION
An In-School Supervision (ISS) assignment consists of a student being removed from a regular classroom setting and required to report to a designated area. In this area they will be supervised by a staff member, and will be separated from the rest of the student body for the duration of the assignment.
Student responsibilities during ISS:
1.
Students must report to the designated area by 8:10 a.m. with all necessary supplies and assignments, as they will not be allowed to return to their locker. (Students should also bring a library book.) If a student reports to the supervision room after 8:10 a.m. without a pass, they will receive an After-School Detention in addition to the In-School
Supervision.
2.
The teachers will provide assignments for the day.
3.
Students are required to complete all work, and all assignments must be turned into the teacher upon their return to the regular class following suspension.
4.
The student may earn up to a grade equivalent of 100% (A) for work completed.
5.
Students are required to sit quietly and complete homework assignments. Students must remain occupied at all times.
6.
Students are not allowed to talk, sleep, or display disruptive behavior
7.
Any student who is disruptive and/or arrives unprepared will be removed from the In-School Supervision area, and assigned to an Out of School Suspension. Students must successfully complete their scheduled days of In-School
Supervision before they will be allowed to return to regular classes.
8.
Lunch will be eaten in the In-School Supervision area. Bathroom breaks will be provided at the discretion of the designated supervisor.
9.
All school policies remain in effect.
SATURDAY SCHOOL
1.
Saturday School will meet from 8:00am - 12:00 noon. It is the student’s responsibility to know where to enter for an assigned Saturday School.
2.
Students will report promptly at 8:00am to the assigned room with all of their study materials. Students who arrive late will be refused entrance and will be treated as a failure to show. Students will provide work and proper reading materials to keep occupied for the entire four-hour period. (Final discretion will be left to the supervisor.)
3.
Students will study or read quietly without any talking, sleeping, or disruptive behavior.
4.
Students may be asked to leave Saturday School for violation of any rules or for poor behavior or poor attitude. If a student is asked to leave, they will be reassigned a Saturday School and receive a three-day suspension from school.
5.
Students will ask the supervisor’s permission to leave the room for any reason. Students will be allowed one restroom break.
6.
Students and parents are responsible for providing transportation to and from Saturday School.
7.
Students will be allowed to reschedule a Saturday School only once. This rescheduling must be completed prior to the
Saturday School assignment by having the parents contact the Principal in person or by phone.
8.
If the student is ill the day of the Saturday School that student will bring a doctor’s excuse on the following Monday morning to explain the circumstances. Failure to comply will be considered a failure to serve the Saturday School (See
#10).
9.
All school policies remain in effect.
10.
Students who fail to serve a Saturday School assignment will be penalized as follows:

First offense = original Saturday School assignment plus one more

Second offense = three days Out-of-School Suspension and make up Saturday School

Every time thereafter = three to five days Out-of-School Suspension and make up Saturday School.
Students are required to make up all Saturday School assignments regardless of if they are the originally assigned
Saturday School or if they have been added because of a failure to serve a Saturday School.
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OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
(Exclusion from school for a period not to exceed 10 school days.)
Students may do regularly assigned work during out-of-school suspension, however students will receive zero credit for days they are suspended. While on suspension, the student may not be on school property, or attend school functions (this includes activities that Mt. Olive is participating in at other schools).
A student may be temporarily suspended by a Building Principal or designee when there is reasonable cause to believe that:
1.
The physical safety of the student or of others is endangered and will continue to be endangered;
2.
The student is causing and will continue to cause substantial interference with classroom instruction;
3.
The student has damaged school property;
4.
The student possesses and/or transports pornographic literature, tobacco products, drugs, alcohol etc. into the school building or on school property;
5.
The student fails to attend Saturday School;
6.
The student is defiant and/or disrespectful to school personnel;
7.
Commits other serious offenses.
EXPULSION
(Exclusion from school for a period of more than 10 days but not beyond two school years.)
The Principal may recommend expulsion if the student:
1.
Causes or attempts to cause substantial damage to school property, steals or attempts to steal school property of substantial value,
2.
Causes or attempts to causes substantial damage to private property or steals or attempts to steal valuable private property,
3.
Causes or attempts to cause physical injury to another person except in self-defense,
4.
Knowingly possesses or attempts to possess, or transmits any firearm, knife, explosive, weapons, or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to another student within the school, (*The definition of weapons for which students can be expelled is expanded to include: knives, shotguns, brass knuckles, billy clubs, lookalikes, or any other items such as: bats, pipes, sticks, etc. if used to cause bodily harm. -- Firearm violations will be reported to the State Police.)
5.
Knowingly possesses, attempts to possess, uses transmits, purports to be, or is under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogen drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage or intoxicant of any kind,
6.
Knowingly uses or copies the academic work of another and presents it as his/her own without proper attribution,
7.
Defies the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, or administrators,
8.
Commits other serious violations of school rules.
9.
Earns 10 or more days of Out-of-School Suspension during the school year.
SCHOOL DANCES (Homecoming, Valentine Dance, Prom)
Mt. Olive High School students and their dates are invited to attend school dances. Any Mt. Olive High School student selecting to invite an outside date (other than a current Mt. Olive High School student) will be required to fill out and submit a Date Request Form for administrative approval. All school rules are in effect. Junior high or middle school-aged students cannot attend these dances. Also, individuals may not be above 20 years of age.
GOOD NIGHT RULE
Once a student leaves a school activity, he/she will not be readmitted to the activity.
ATTENDANCE ON DAYS OF CONTESTS
A student must be in attendance for the last 1/2 of a day to participate in games or contests on that day, unless cleared by the principal.
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