TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Staff Directory Mission Statements Nondiscrimination Policy Goals E-Mail/Computer Application Registration Textbook Fees K-5 Supply List 6-8 Supply List Testing Health/Medical Immunizations Dental, Hearing and Eye Exams Physicals Birth Certificate Head Lice Health/Medical (cont’d) Illness at School Administration of Medication Parental Involvement Parental Involvement Policy Statement PTO Site Council Parent-Teacher Conferences School Day School Hours Attendance School Day (cont’d) Make-up Work Tardiness Removing Students for Appointments Permits and Passes Elementary Grades K-5 Philosophy Student Expectations Grading Scale Late Work Middle School Grades 6-8 Philosophy Basic Rules for a Positive School Climate Grading Scale Honor Roll Middle School Grades 6-8 (cont’d) Eligibility Requirements for Activities USD #251 Promotion Policy Cheating Late Work Lettering Policy Academics Music Athletics Discipline Plan Rules/Consequences Dress Code 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont’d) Page 20 Page 30 Serious Misconduct Harassment Drugs and Alcohol Weapons Possession of a Firearm Playground Rules Transportation Bus Rules Transportation to Sponsored Events Breakfast & Lunch Programs Charges Breakfast, Lunch and Milk Accounts Lunchroom Rules Sports Events The Sportsman’s Creed Facility Usage Agreement Miscellaneous Information School Safety Hotline (1-877-626-8203) Weather Notices Fire Drills Tornado Drills Students Arriving and Leaving School Entering the Building After 8:15 a.m. Use of Crosswalks and Sidewalks Miscellaneous Information (cont’d) Bicycle Safety Fundraising Telephone Items Not Allowed At School Lost and Found Parties Public Display of Affection Miscellaneous Information (cont’d) Movies Candy and Gum Gym Shoes Backpacks or Sports Bags Lockers in the Gym Lockers Handbook Policies – Student Accountability Notice Regarding Food & Beverage for Parties and Rewards Pages 31-32 Page 33 Pages 34-35 Page 36 Page 37 Permission for Medication Forms Movie Permission Form Internet Acceptable Use Agreement USD 251 Bullying Policy Authorization to Photograph, Videotape or Record Student Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 2 Americus Elementary School / NLC Jr. High School 804 Sixth Street, P.O. Box 497 Americus, KS 66835 (620)443-5165 Fax (620)443-5840 www.usd251.org Aron Dody Nancy Robinson Susan Kuhn Principal Kindergarten Grade 1 Kebra Claiborne Grade 2 Sharon VanGundy Lisa Glass Christina Hamlin Denise Cottenmyre LG Barnard Rick Ginter Karen Heins Lee Coiner JD Chanley Laurie Matney Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Jr High Computers/8th Grade Math 6-8 Math K-8 PE 6-8 Science 6-8 Language Arts 6-8 Social Studies Music Aimee Landgren Erin Stahl Angie Becker Mike McDougald Amy Budke Sandra Moffatt Nickie Nussen Rae Jean Commerford Carolyn Duvall Frances Mealman Bill Lynn Pearl Allen Amber Kesler Wendy Linsey Katrina Morgan Julie Dains Vicky Ross Jamie Yingst Jesus Lara Jeff Shirley Kristy Gadino Keainna Thompson Mark Robinson Counselor Title 1 Learning Resource Teacher Learning Resource Teacher Learning Resource Teacher Library Secretary Aide At Risk Para LR Para LR Para LR Para LR Para At Risk Para Head Cook Cook Cook Head Custodian Custodian Bus Driver Bus Driver Bus Driver Bus Driver 3 MISSION STATEMENTS AMERICUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL / NLC MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT The purpose of Americus Elementary School / NLC Middle School is to provide a safe environment where all will learn to their fullest potential in order to function in an international community. NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY The district shall maintain a learning environment free from discrimination, insult, intimidation, or harassment due to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability. Any incident of discrimination in any form shall be reported to a teacher, the principal or other appropriate school official for investigation and corrective action by the compliance officer. Any student who engages in discrimination may be reprimanded and counseled to refrain from such conduct. Any student who continues to engage in discriminatory conduct shall be disciplined. Any student who engages in discriminatory behavior may be disciplined in a manner deemed appropriate by the administration, up to and including suspension or expulsion from school. GOALS The academic areas our School Improvement Plan has targeted are reading comprehension, math problem solving, and writing. Each year we strive to improve our overall class scores in the following tests: ITBS, Kansas Assessments, and our local pre and posttests. E-MAIL/COMPUTER APPLICATION Students shall have no expectation of privacy when using district e-mail or computer systems. E-mail messages shall be used only for approved educational purposes. Students must use appropriate language in all messages. Students are expected to use the system following guidelines approved by teachers or the administration. Any e-mail or computer application or information in district computers or computer systems is subject to monitoring by the staff and/or administration. The school retains the right to duplicate any information created by students in a computer system or on any individual computer. Students who violate these rules, or any other classroom rules relating to computer use, are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school. REGISTRATION New student registrations are handled in the school office. Birth certificates and a Kansas Certificate of Immunization for kindergarten and new first year students must be presented at the school office before enrollment is complete and your child is permitted to attend classes. 4 TEXTBOOK FEES Textbook fees include all consumable items supplied by the school. These fees are due at enrollment Applications for free textbooks will be distributed at enrollment. All items on the form must be completed and a copy of the previous year’s tax return attached before the application can be submitted for approval. Replacement for Lost or Damaged books: If a book or workbook is lost or damaged beyond normal wear and tear by the student, replacement costs will have to be paid by the student responsible for the book. The law provides that a system of fines and penalties may be established for lost or damaged books. The cost to the student for a lost or damaged text will be assessed based on the following and a letter to parents will be issued. 1-2 year old textbook 3-4 year old textbook 4+ year old textbook 80% of Replacement cost 60% of Replacement cost 50% of Replacement cost (Books include workbook, textbook, reference book, library book, or special skill books issued to a student by the school for his/her use either at school or to be taken home.) 5 8 Pencils (#2) Box for supplies – pencil box 1 box of crackers (ANY KIND) each month Back Pack Pink Eraser Tennis Shoes Nap Mat 2 packages of wide ruled notebook paper 2 pocket folders 1 pair scissors 1 pencil/crayon box Watercolor Markers Loose-leaf Wide-lined Notebook Paper 1 package of White Copy Paper 1st GRADE 4th GRADE Pencil Box Water color Paints Water color Markers 2 solid colored pocket folders PE Tennis Shoes Paint Shirt Hand Sanitizer- Boys Hand Wipes – Girls Colored Pencils Back Pack Ruler- Metric on one side Scissors Colored Pencils 1 loose leaf notebook and paper Watercolor Markers 2 pocket folders 2nd GRADE 5th Grade Scissors watercolor paint set 2 plain colored pocket folders Back Pack Hand Sanitizer- Boys Hand Wipes – Girls 1 package dry erase markers (black) 1 package of note cards that are lined Dry Erase board cleaner (expo) boys 1 bottle of germx- Girls Markers 1 Colored Pen 1 package dry erase markers (black) 1 package of note cards that are lined Dry Erase board cleaner (expo) boys 1 bottle of germx- Girls 6 Supply List 3rd Grade Americus/NLC Elementary Kindergarten 6th – 8th GRADES Notebook/Binder Notebook paper – continuous supply Blue or black pens Large Eraser Ruler Compass Rubber cement – continuous supply Zippered pencil bag Scientific Calculator Note Cards All Middle school students will need the following for P.E. Combination lock (for PE locker) – Key locks are not acceptable 2 T-Shirts (do not have to b new or plain white; short sleeved t-shirts, no cutoffs) Gym shoes (any type of clean soft-soled tennis shoes Gym shorts ( no cutoffs) Towel The following supplies are needed for each class. Some supplies can work for different classes. One 2” three ring binder and loose-leaf paper will be used for Math, Science, and Social Studies. A pencil box with pens, pencils, colored pencils, etc. should be carried to every class. 6th – 8th Grades Math 2 spiral notebooks Scientific Calculator 2 highlighters (different colors) Pencil Box with supplies Book Cover 2 spiral notebooks Thumb drive Science Loose-Leaf or spiral paper Calculator 1 (2-3”) 3 ring binder Packet of 6 tab dividers Pencils Notecards – 6th & 8th Rubber Cement Communications Pens- blue & black only 2 highlighters - 1 yellow, 1 other color Loose-leaf paper, continuous supply 1 pocket folder (fits in 3 ring binder) Colored Pencils Scissors Pencil Box/Bag 1 – 3 ring binder Pencils 1 spiral notebook 1 package of index cards Thumb Drive Social Studies Notebook paper Pencil Box with Supplies Book Cover 1 Pocket Folder #2 Pencils 7 The following items are being purchased for students by local organizations: Kindergarten; 2 glue sticks, 1 box (8 crayons), and Kleenex 1st Grade Bottle of Elmers, 1 box crayons, 2 wide-lined spiral notebooks, pencils #2, Erasers, Glue Sticks, Kleenex 2nd Grade Elmers and glue sticks, Crayons, Erasers, Pencils, Wide lined notebooks, Kleenex 3rd Grade Crayons, Ruler, Pencils, Wide-lined Spiral notebooks, Rubber eraser, Glue Sticks, Kleenex 4th Grade Crayons, Pencils, Glue Sticks, Eraser, Notebooks, and Kleenex 5th Grade Kleenex, Pencils, Colored Pencils, 3-prong folder, Highlighters, Wide-ruled notebook paper, Copy Paper 6th – 7th – 8th Notebooks, Pencils, 5 tab dividers, Pocket folders, Colored Pencils, Highlighters, Kleenex 8 TESTING MEASURES OF ACADEMIC PROGRESS (MAP) MAP is a computerized adaptive assessment that provides educators with information they need to improve teaching and learning. MAP provides a measurement of a student’s individual achievement and growth in the core areas of Reading, Mathematics, Language Usage, and Science. These tests are aligned with the state standards and will give teachers immediate results on each student. During the school year, MAP will be administered 2x to grades 6th-8th in the areas of Reading, Mathematics, and Science. AIMSweb AIMSweb is a web-based assessment, data management, and reporting system that provides the framework for Response to Intervention (RTI) and multi-tiered instruction. Designed specifically to universally screen and progress monitor, AIMSweb uses brief, valid, and reliable General Outcome Measures of reading and math performance for Grades K-8 that can be used with any curriculum. STATE OF KANSAS ASSESSMENT TESTS During the school year, State of Kansas Assessment Tests will be given in the following subjects and grades: Mathematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades 3-8 Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades 3-8 Science………………………………………….Grades 4, 7 Local Writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grade 4 Reading Diagnostic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grades K, 1, 2 9 HEALTH/MEDICAL IMMUNIZATIONS Students must have on file at the school a record of the following immunizations (county health nurse checks these records each fall): At least 5 doses of DPT (one dose must have been given after the fourth birthday). At least 4 doses of Polio (one dose must have been given after the fourth birthday). Two doses of MMR vaccine on or after the first birthday. (This applies to new kindergarten students and those students entering the 6th grade. All other students must have one dose.) Varicella (Chicken Pox) Vaccine 3 doses of Hepatitis (Strongly Recommended) Immunization records must be on file by October 20th or the student will be sent home until updated records are brought in. DENTAL, HEARING and EYE EXAMS Students should see a dentist at least once every school year. Your dentist will supply you with a card to return to the school to be filed in your student’s permanent file. Hearing and eye exams are conducted by the school nurse. Kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, 6th & 8th grade students, and students new to Americus School are always checked. Others in grades 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th are checked upon request. Scoliosis exams are given to girls in grades 5-8 and boys in grade 8. PHYSICALS A physical exam conducted by a physician is required each year of students in grades 6-8 participating in interscholastic sports or cheerleading. This physical must be on file in the school office before the student is allowed to participate in any practice. A physical is also required at the time of enrollment for Kindergarten students and any new students to this district. Physicals that are included in school records when a student transfers are acceptable. BIRTH CERTIFICATE As required by state law the school must have a copy of the original birth certificate for each student. A hospital birth certificate will not be accepted in place of the state certificate. The school office will have applications to apply for a copy of Kansas State birth certificates. Students who fail to provide said documentation as required by law may be excluded from school by the superintendent or his designated representative until statutory requirements are satisfied. Notice of exclusion shall be given to the parents/guardians as prescribed by law. The appropriate principal shall forward evidence of compliance with health tests and the inoculation law to other schools when requested by such schools or a child’s parents/guardians. HEAD LICE Students found with head lice will be removed from the classroom immediately, examined by a school official and parents will be contacted to pick up their children for treatment. Student shall not be allowed to return to school until the child is treated and nits removed. 10 ILLNESS AT SCHOOL If a student becomes ill or has an accident during the school day, the principal is to be notified. The principal will determine if the student should remain in school. No student is to leave the building without permission from the principal. The principal or secretary will notify the parents or guardians responsible for the student’s welfare. If the student is to go home because of illness or accident, the parent must make arrangements for transportation. No elementary student will be issued a pass to go home unaccompanied. If the parents cannot be reached, the building principal will use his discretion for each individual case. ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION When students are required to take medication at school, the school may cooperate with parents in the supervision of medication that the student will use. The following rules apply: 1. Prescription medicine must be in the original container and be prescribed by a doctor. Two containers, one for home and one for school, may be requested from the pharmacist. The “Permission for Medication” form must either accompany the medicine or be Faxed to the school before any medication is taken. (FAX # 316-443-5840). 2. Over-the-counter medications should not be maintained on any USD 251 school premises, including athletic areas, unless a prescription is provided along with written parent permission to administer. (BOE Policy Handbook, JGFGBA-2 & JGFGB-2) The supervision of oral medications shall be in strict compliance with the rules and regulations of the board as carried out by district personnel. In certain circumstances when medication is necessary in order that the student remain in school, the school may cooperate with parents in the supervision of medication that the student will use. The medical person authorized to prescribe medication or the parent, if it is a nonprescription medication, must send a written order to the school to accompany the medication. Forms for these purposes are included in this handbook. 3. All medicines and forms must be turned into the office. Only oral medication shall be administered except in emergency situations. The school nurse or the delegated trained school employee will examine the medication to determine that it appears to be in the original container, to be properly labeled and to be properly authorized by the completed “Permission for Medication” for prescriptions or written permission for non-prescription medication. 4. Parents or legal guardians may come to the school to administer the medications if they choose. The principal or his designee shall be informed of all new prescriptions. The principal may choose to discontinue the administration of medication provided that he has first notified the parents or medical person in advance of the date of such discontinuance with the reasons therefore. 11 PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT POLICY STATEMENT Americus Elementary School / NLC Middle School recognizes the necessity and value of parent involvement to support student success and achievement. In order to assure partnerships between parents and the school, the staff and faculty are committed to: (a) establishing effective two-way communication with all parents. (b) developing strategies to encourage and enable parents to participate actively in their children’s education. (c) supporting and coordinating parent involvement from kindergarten through grade eight. AMERICUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL / NLC Jr. High PTO The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is a vital part of our school program. We encourage support of PTO by parents and teachers becoming active in PTO. Monthly meetings (dates and times) are listed in the district calendar. SITE COUNCIL The Site Council is an advisory council working closely with the school and is made up of patrons in the community to help advise school personnel of educational needs. Meeting dates are listed in the district calendar. Everyone is welcome to attend. PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Parent-teacher conferences are held at the end of the first and third nine weeks as noted on the district calendar. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to visit with their child’s teacher about his/her progress. The teachers work many hours preparing for fall and spring conferences. We strive for 100% attendance. 12 SCHOOL DAY SCHOOL HOURS Class hours for Kindergarten –8th grades are from 8:15-3:35 p.m. Parents are encouraged to visit the school and to become acquainted with the teachers. For the protection of our students most doors will be locked at 8:20 a.m. Parents must enter through the east Middle School doorway. We require that you sign in at the office whenever you enter the building during school hours. Parents wishing to discuss any matter with the teacher should feel free to do so. This can be arranged by calling the school between 7:45 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The teacher will be notified and will return your call to set up an appointment as soon as possible. A classroom visit gives parents an appropriate opportunity to show their appreciation for the important educational aspect of raising children. However, we do ask your cooperation to make your visit more productive by checking into the office, when you arrive. ATTENDANCE It is important for student to attend school every day. Irregularity in attendance is the greatest contributing cause of failure. One day’s absence costs two days of school work, the day of absence and the lack of preparation for the day of return. Parents can render no greater help to their children than to see that they are in school everyday. Recognizing the importance of regular school attendance, the State of Kansas has a compulsory attendance law requiring parents of children (that have not reached the age of 16) to have regular attendance. There are two types of absences: excused absences and unexcused absences. An excused absence must meet one of the following criteria: An absence that is for the general welfare of the student (dental or medical appointments and illness). An absence to be with relatives because of a serious illness or death of an immediate member of the family. An absence, in the opinion of the principal, that was in the best interest of the student’s family. An unexcused absence is simply an absence not covered by any of the previously described excused absences. When a student is ill or unable to attend school, parents or guardians are asked to call the office before 8:30 a.m. If we do not hear from the parent before 8:30 a.m., the office staff will place a call to your home or place of work to find out the reason for the absence. It is hoped that parents will cooperate with the school by assuming responsibility for communicating with the school regarding all of their student’s absences and tardiness. Truancy or parental neglect is assumed if the school is not notified promptly of a student absence. By state law the authorities must be notified of this neglect for the protection of the students in our district. When an absence is planned in advance, the student should bring a note from the parent explaining the reason for the anticipated absence. Assignments for make up work can be made at this time. Students missing school because of school activities must have assignments ready for the next class period. It is the student’s responsibility to request missed assignments. School work missed for any reason should be made up; otherwise, the student will not only receive a lower grade than necessary, but will very likely not understand the work which will follow. Parents or adults 21 years or older with parents permission, must sign students out at the office when leaving school for any reason. You must also sign them in at the office when returning to school from an appointment. 13 MAKE-UP WORK The pupil is responsible for making up work missed due to a valid excused absence. Students have two days for every one day missed to make up work for the excused absences. Students need to get an advanced assignment sheet from the office for the purpose of collecting assignments from each teacher prior to the planned absence. Advanced assignment sheets are only needed for students who will miss one or more full days of school. Students should make every effort to have the work completed upon returning back to school. Students who are assigned out of school suspension (OSS) should make arrangements for their work to be picked up for them from the office. All work will be due upon returning unless specified differently by the principal. TARDINESS Being on time to class is considered very important for the student and to the class he/she is attending. Lateness not only penalizes the individual but also is a disruption to the class and teacher. In order to encourage students to be on time, it is necessary to have procedures for handling tardiness. 1. 2. A student is tardy if not in the classroom and at the location designated by the teacher when the tardy bell rings. Tardy slips for first hour must be filled out in the office. All tardies at the beginning of the day will be unexcused unless a note or telephone call is provided before the end of the school day by the parent giving the reason. If it is then considered an excusable reason, the tardy will be excused. REMOVING STUDENTS FOR APPOINTMENTS Parents will be required to report to the office and sign out the student before removing students for appointments or illness. PERMITS AND PASSES To leave the building during any regular school day, it is necessary to obtain permission from the teacher and the principal. Parents need to contact the school to make arrangements for the student to leave. 14 AMERICUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY Americus Elementary School will provide a positive environment for all students to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be productive, responsible citizens with respect for self and others. Character education is taught at school, but the school respects the role of the home as the primary provider of morals and character development. STUDENT EXPECTATIONS Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects the rights of others and is in accordance with safety rules and regulations. School personnel have both the authority and obligation to insist upon appropriate conduct in the school building, on the school grounds, and at school activities. To this end the staff at Americus School pledge themselves to making every opportunity available for students to be successful each day and to the development of behaviors that are good for themselves and others. The following are the general rules of conduct for all students at Americus School: Students have primary responsibility for their actions. We encourage self-control. (Keep hands, feet, and other objects to self). Students must observe the safety rules of the school for their own security and that of others. Students shall respect others and property. Students must show respect for the truth. Students shall follow classroom rules established by the teacher(s). By following these expectations our school can honor and promote character development such as honesty, respect, and maximum effort. GRADING SCALE KEY FOR GRADES K-2 The grading scale for students in grades Kindergarten through 2 nd grade will be done on a mastery of skills checklist. KEY FOR GRADES 3-5 A - Excellent 90-100% B - Above average 80-89% C - Average 70-79% D - Below average 60-69% F - Failure 59% & below I - Incomplete LATE WORK The staff at Americus Elementary School feels it is imperative that students learn to be punctual and responsible for their schoolwork, including homework. Elementary teachers will each set their own policies for accepting late work. 15 NLC JR. HIGH SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY The purpose of NLC Jr. High School is to meet the following basic needs of early adolescents. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Emphasize academics through a variety of teaching methods and a balanced curriculum of basic and elective subjects. Encourage positive parental involvement and support through home/school communication, home study activities, and parental supervision of homework. Provide structure through clear rules and consistent consequences. Provide physical activity through competitive sports and non-competitive physical education with an emphasis on lifetime leisure activities. Assist students in exploring and developing skills and attitudes about self and relationships with others. Provide positive social interaction with adults and peers. Provide opportunities for creative expression through special activities. BASIC RULES FOR A POSITIVE SCHOOL CLIMATE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Students are here to learn and shall not interfere with the learning of others. Students are to come to class on time, be prepared to work, and have all materials, including completed homework. Students are to be polite, not infringing on others physically or emotionally. Students are to respect the property of the school, other students, teachers and themselves. Students are to maintain appropriate noise levels in all areas of the school. Students shall follow classroom rules established by the teacher(s). Grading Key for Jr. High School A+ A AB+ B BC+ C C- - Excellent - Excellent - Excellent - Above Average - Above Average - Above Average - Average - Average - Average 98-100% 93-97% 90-92% 87-89% 83-86% 80-82% 77-79% 73-76% 70-72% D+ - Below Average D - Below Average D- - Below Average F - Failure I - Incomplete 67-69% 63-66% 60-62% 59% & below Weekly grade reports will be sent home on Fridays or the last school day of the week. HONOR ROLL The Jr. High School will offer an ‘A’ and ‘B’ honor roll. The grade point average to be on the ‘A’ honor roll must be 4.00. The ‘B’ honor roll consists of those students who have a 3.00 to 3.99 grade point average for the period. The honor roll will be calculated each of the four nine weeks. The following table indicates the numerical value assigned to the letter grades, which are reported on the report cards, and on the student’s permanent record. A = 4.00 B = 3.00 C = 2.00 16 D = 1.00 F = 0.00 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR ACTIVITIES Students of grades 6-8 of U.S.D. #251 (North Lyon County) must meet all eligibility requirements as set forth by the KSHSAA. In addition, U.S.D.#251 student eligibility will be checked each week. The eligibility check will occur on the last school day of each week. If the student is failing any class he/she will be declared ineligible for all extracurricular activities for the following week. Week is defined as from Monday through the following week and would conclude on Sunday. Those students declared ineligible would be allowed to practice, but would not be allowed to suit up or participate at any contest. If the competition is during the school day ineligible students will remain in the classroom. Student participating in extra-curricular activities, athletic events, etc. must attend school at least one-half day the day of the event or if the event is an all-day affair, one-half of the preceding day to be eligible to participate. USD #251 PROMOTION POLICY Students of grades 6-8 of USD #251 will follow this criteria for promotion to the next grade level. 1. The student is expected to pass each core subject. 2. Core subjects for all students are: Language Arts, Science, Math and Social Studies. 3. The student will be retained if he/she fails three (3) or more core subjects. 4. The student will be promoted to the next grade if he/she passes three (3) or more core subjects. 5. If the student fails two (2) core subjects, he/she must successfully complete two (2) of the four (4) criteria for one core subject failed to be promoted to the next grade: Kansas State Assessments- “Meets Standard” average of reading and math Assessment Performance Levels Total Grade point average of 2.5 or above Teacher recommendation Principal recommendation ** School administration may sanction social promotion based upon individual circumstances. CHEATING Any student caught cheating in any form may receive a “zero” for the assignment. In the Middle School, this will be strictly enforced with no warnings given. LATE WORK The staff at NLC Junior High School feels it is imperative that students learn to be punctual and responsible for their schoolwork, including homework. Jr. High Late Work Policy Homework is an integral part of learning. It reinforces concepts taught and vocabulary introduced. It allows insight into a student’s understanding. All students will be issued 3 homework passes per nine weeks. These passes can be used to earn partial credit (60%) on a missing assignment. The assignment must be turned in by the end of the week that the assignment was originally due in order to use a late pass. If the assignment was due on the last day of the week, the assignment must be turned in on the following day of school in order to use the pass. After all 3 passes are used or the assignment was not turned in by the end of the week it was originally due, the final score for the assignment will be a zero. It is important that students take ownership in their grades and continually communicate with their teachers. 17 LETTERING POLICY ACADEMICS Students will receive an academic letter if they are on the honor roll at least three quarters during the year. Students who have been on the honor roll twice at awards time, then make the honor roll the last quarter, will receive their pins in the summer from the principal. USD 251 JR. HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC POLICY The district Music Lettering Policy is the minimum requirement for students to show extra dedication above and beyond the music program requirements. Participation: 1. No unexcused absences 2. Student may not forget instrument/equipment more than twice in a school year. 3. Students must practice twenty hours during the school year, which will be documented by parent/guardian, and must be turned in by May 1 to their music director. Performance: A music letter will be awarded to those students that participate in 100% of the year’s performances. Excused absences will be at the discretion of the director. Band and chorus are considered a yearlong commitment. ATHLETICS Each coach will have in place a written policy and guidelines for student athletes to letter for each sport. These policies as well as team rules will be communicated both to parents and athletes at a pre-season meeting or in written form handed out to student athletes at the beginning of each season. Student athletes can earn any one of the following achievements: Varsity letter (the athlete met all team requirements) Letter of participation (for athletes who do not meet the criteria of a letter) 18 NLC JR. HIGH SCHOOL CONDUCT SYSTEM GOAL To provide a framework for students to practice responsible self-discipline in a safe, enriching, and positive learning environment. It is our belief that this conduct system will help students become responsible, self-disciplined young adults. We believe that a safe and orderly environment provides an atmosphere that is conducive to learning; one which enables students to maximize their individual potential and succeed as lifelong learners. This conduct system will have two categories – minor violations and major violations. Minor violations will be recorded on the conduct card through a consistently enforced system where the expectations are clearly communicated. Every fifth mark on the student’s conduct card will result in some type of consequence. Conduct card detentions will always be served Wednesdays after school. Examples of minor violations include, but are not limited to: Inappropriate language Defiance/lack of cooperation Inappropriate/disruptive behavior Disrespect to others/attitude Gum/candy/food without permission Not prepared for class No student planner Major violations will be taken care of by the principal directly and will bypass the conduct card. Just a few examples of major violations would be: Alcohol/drug, or tobacco possession or use Vandalism Theft Fighting Note – A detailed explanation of the conduct card system will be given to parents at the Middle School “Back to School” night. Also, the conduct card itself, which is to stay in the student planner at all times, will explain the entire system. DRESS CODE We do insist on the following rules: 1. Clothes or hair must not present a danger to the health and safety of the student or other students. 2. Appearances must not cause an interference with schoolwork or create classroom disorder. 3. Students and their clothing must be neat and clean. Torn, dirty clothing is not acceptable. 4. T-shirts with obscene or vulgar messages or messages that promote drugs, alcohol or violence are not allowed. 5. Inappropriate make-up is not allowed. 6. Revealing or provocative clothing is not allowed. 7. Dress code violations will be left to the discretion of the principal/head teacher/coach. 8. Pants must be worn above the waist. Pants lower than the bottom of the heels are safety issues and will not be permitted. 9. Uniform issued by the school should be worn for that sport only and are not to become daily wear of students. Dress that tends to disrupt the class or contribute to a safety hazard will result in students being required to change to an acceptable dress. 19 SERIOUS MISCONDUCT HARASSMENT The Board of Education is committed to providing a positive productive learning and working environment, free from discrimination. Harassment, on the basis of race, sex, color or national origin will not be tolerated in the school district. Sexual and racial harassment of employees or students of the district by board members, administrators, certificated and support personnel, students, vendors, and any others having business or other contact with the school district is strictly prohibited. Harassment on the basis of race, color or national origin shall be reported immediately to the building principal or the school counselor. Harassment from student to student, student to employee, employee to student and employee to employee will not be tolerated. More detailed harassment policies can be found in the Board of Education policy book. BULLYING Bullying will not be tolerated on school property, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event. Bullying is defined as repeatedly and purposely attempting to control or intimidate another person by verbal or physical acts. The person being bullied is often unable to defend himself or herself. Bullying behaviors include, but are not limited to: Physically hurting (slapping, kicking, tripping, or punching) Threatening to hurt someone Excluding someone socially Destruction or defacing of personal property Insulting others Teasing in a mean way Name calling Starting rumors Gossiping Cyberbullying will also not be tolerated. Cyberbullying is when children or teens bully each other using the internet, cell phones, or other cyber technology. This can include, but not limited to: Sending mean text, e-mail, or instant messages Posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on web sites Using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone For students who display bullying behavior, the following may be implemented: 1. 2. 3. Appropriate consequences for behavior. Possible consequences include: In School Suspension (2 full days) Out of School Suspension (1-5 days) Referral to local agencies Long term suspension Law enforcement called Expulsion for rest of the year Expulsion for 186 school days Payment for damages (in conjunction with other consequences) Counseling for student displaying bullying behavior Parental involvement 20 BULLYING CONTINUED: Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to bullying or who has witnessed a bullying act should discuss the alleged bullying with the immediate teachers, bus driver, para, aide, or principal. Any complaint must then be relayed immediately to the building principal. SAFE ENVIRONMENT Students that engage in behaviors that are intended to cause another individual physical or mental harm through intimidation, threatening, or extortion will be subject to these possible consequences: In school suspension (minimum of 2 days) Out of school suspension (1-5 days) Long-term suspension Expulsion for 186 school days The student’s age and the severity of the situation will be considered, when issuing one of the aforementioned consequences. Law enforcement may be called depending on the severity of the incident and at the principal’s discretion. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL Students are not to possess, consume, sell or distribute any drugs, narcotics, alcohol, tobacco, or substance purported to be a drug, narcotic or alcohol, at school, on school grounds, or at school sponsored events. Violation of this policy will result in appropriate disciplinary action. This rule does not prohibit possession or consumption by a student of a substance that has been prescribed to him/her by a person licensed to prescribe. All medicines must be properly labeled and stored in the office at all times. WEAPONS A student shall not knowingly possess, handle or transmit any object that can be considered a weapon at school, on school property or at a school sponsored event. This shall include any weapon, any item being used as a weapon or destructive device, or any facsimile of a weapon. Violation of this policy may result in suspension/expulsion from school. POSSESSION OF A FIREARM Possession of a firearm shall result in expulsion from school for a period of one calendar year, except the Superintendent may recommend this expulsion requirement be modified on a case-by-case basis. Board policy will be followed when dealing with weapons and/or firearms. 21 PLAYGROUND RULES A playground supervisor will be on duty promptly for recess duty. Playground rules are to be consistently enforced by all. All students are to obey the playground rules regardless of age, grade, school position or academic standing. There will be situations that will occur on the playground that will not be covered in this policy. Supervisors in this position are to use their own judgment in dealing with the situation at hand. The supervisor in charge of recess has full charge over all children. 1. Obey all teachers or playground supervisors on the playground. 2. Play safely and courteously. 3. No snowball throwing. 4. No fighting. 5. No personal toys shall be brought to school. 6. Do not go back in the building until time to go in, unless permission is granted for a special reason. 7. No food, gum, or candy on the playground. 8. Kick only kick balls, soccer balls or footballs. Playground balls and frisbees are the only things to be thrown or caught on the playground. No rocks, sand, sticks, snowballs, etc. are to be thrown. 9. Stay in sight at all times. 10. Do not crawl up swing set poles. 11. Swing straight on swings - no twisting, holding hands, standing, or swinging sideways. Do not save swings. 12. Merry-go-round -- one person per section on small merry-go-round (six all together). You may sit or stand. Do not lean backward on merry-go-round. 13. Do not walk or run up the slide. Only one person may be on the steps or coming down at a time. There is to be no interference with a person while he/she is making his/her slide. 22 TRANSPORTATION School begins at 8:15a.m. Buses are scheduled to arrive at approximately 8:00a.m. Students should avoid arriving before 7:45a.m., unless they are here for breakfast. Breakfast is served beginning at 7:45a.m. BUS RULES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. The bus driver is in charge of all students while riding, loading on and unloading from the bus. Students shall not stand in the traveled portion of a roadway while waiting for a bus. The bus driver has the authority to assign seats. The students are to sit in their assigned seats facing to the front of the bus with no portion of their body or any object in the aisle. Students are to remain in their seats when the bus is in motion. Smoking and use of tobacco inside the bus is prohibited. Alcohol or illegal drugs shall not be consumed or carried in a bus. Animals shall not be transported on a bus. Students are not allowed to use profanity or improper language. Food and drinks may be consumed on the bus only with the permission of the bus driver. No weapons of any type shall be transported on the bus. Students are not to put any body parts out windows or throw anything out windows. Permission is needed to transport large objects. Students will not display signs or rude gestures to other motorists or pedestrians. All other appropriate school rules will apply to bus conduct. TRANSPORTATION TO SPONSORED EVENTS The district furnishes transportation to athletic events for members, participants and cheerleaders. Members of the athletic squads are expected to ride the school bus. Permission to ride home from an event with parents or an adult designated by parents will be granted only on written application to the building principal or his designated representative. The teacher riding and sponsoring a bus on activity trips is the authority of the school on the bus. A bus sign-off sheet will be available at each event for parents to sign. PENALTY FOR VIOLATING THESE RULES: Violations will be reported to the school principal who can deny the pupil the privilege of riding the bus or take other appropriate actions. 23 BREAKFAST & LUNCH PROGRAMS CHARGES ***NEW FEE SCHEDULE NEEDS TO BE ENTERED BELOW Breakfast Lunch-Grades 1-5 Lunch-Grades 6-8 Milk student regular prices $1.00 per meal $1.65 per meal $1.80 per meal $ .35 per milk reduced prices $ .30 per meal $ .40 per meal $ .40 per meal BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND MILK ACCOUNTS All accounts are expected to remain current. The first statement of account balance will be sent home with the students when there are two lunches left in it. When an account is more that two lunches overdue, students will not be allowed to charge another hot lunch. LUNCHROOM RULES 1. Carbonated beverages are not permitted in the lunch room (state law). 2. Enter lunchroom quietly; stand in line, hands & feet to yourself. 3. Use quiet indoors talking voice, talk only to people close to you. 4. Use polite and courteous manners. 5. Keep hands on your own tray and food. No sharing of food – (health precaution). 6. Sit in the order you come into the lunchroom (unless told differently). 7. Raise hand when you have a question or need help. 8. No throwing food, etc. - Pick up anything you drop. (food, trash, etc.) 9. Only three persons in the restroom at a time. 10. Lights out means = QUIET - NO TALKING 11. When dismissed, leave lunchroom orderly, (No running, pushing, crowding, etc.) Middle School students dismissed through the south airlock doors. 12. Parents may eat lunch with their child. Please contact the office by 8:30 that morning to order your lunch. Visitors must check in/sign in upon arrival in the office. 24 SPORTS EVENTS Students are encouraged to support their teams by attending events. However, they should remain in their seats and be spectators. They should visit the concession stand and use the restroom at appropriate times. There should be no running or rough housing. Good sportsmanship is very important. The teams from visiting schools, their followers, and the officials are our guests. Treat them with due honor and respect. The SPORTSMAN’S CREED THE PLAYERS... -- Live clean and play hard. They play for the love of the game. -- Win without boasting, lose without excuse and they never quit. -- Respect officials and accept their decisions without question. -- Never forget that they represent their school. THE COACHES... -- Inspire in their boys/girls a love for the game and the desire to win. -- Teach them that it is better to lose fairly than to win unfairly. -- Lead players and spectators to respect officials by setting a good example. -- Are the type of people they want their players to be. THE SPECTATORS... -- Never boo a player or official. -- Appreciate a good play, no matter who makes it. -- Know the school gets the blame or the praise for their conduct. -- Recognize the need for more sportsmen and fewer “poor sports.” 25 FACILITY USAGE AGREEMENT USD 251 encourages the proper usage of the school buildings by Americus community groups. The following facility agreement rules were developed for the secure and orderly usage of the building. RULES FOR USE 1. Use of building must not interfere with regular school program or use. 2. Must be under the direct supervision of responsible adult person. Responsible adult defined as: Person over 21 years of age who will give close supervision to those in the building and be responsible for the action of those under his/her supervision. Person signing out the key must be in attendance during the time the building is unlocked. 3. Persons interested in using the building must contact the office for approval and to check out a key. Keys for weekend events will be checked out before 3:30 p.m. on Friday and returned by 9:00 a.m. on the following Monday. Keys for weekday use will be checked out before 3:30 p.m. the day of the event and returned by 9:00 a.m. the following morning. 4. Custodial services must be furnished by the group or charges will be made by the district. The building is to be left as found. 5. Groups are to provide own equipment. 6. Activities are to be confined to the gym area unless prior arrangements are made. 7. Any damage to property will be the responsibility of the person signing the key out. 8. No telephone service will be available. 9. No alcohol or tobacco products, weapons or firearms are allowed in the building or on school grounds. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION SCHOOL SAFETY HOTLINE 1-877-626-8203 A statewide school safety hotline staffed by the Kansas Highway patrol has been established. The hotline allows students to anonymously (you don’t have to give your name) report possible impending violent acts in schools. The highway Patrol person will call the information to local law enforcement who will relay information to the local school administrator. 26 WEATHER NOTICES In case of severe weather, school closings will be broadcast over radio stations WIBW in Topeka, KVOE in Emporia, and KZ 93 in Osage City. Notices will also be announced over TV channels 13 and 27 in Topeka. FIRE DRILLS Fire Drills will be held once each month. In order to clear the building, pupils are instructed in each room as to the correct procedure in leaving the building QUICKLY, QUIETLY AND ORDERLY. 1. Follow route as prescribed by your teachers. 2. Walk rapidly – don’t run. 3. Do not talk. 4. Return to class on notice from your teacher. 5. Learn what to do when the fire horn rings. TORNADO DRILLS Tornado drills will be held three times a year. Students need to follow the directions given by their teachers quickly, quietly, and orderly. Escape plans are posted in classrooms. STUDENTS ARRIVING AND LEAVING SCHOOL Students are to enter the building as soon as they arrive in the morning. They are not to be waiting outside for a friend before entering the building. Students are expected to leave the property as soon as they are dismissed. ENTERING THE BUILDING AFTER 8:20 AM For the safety of our students outside doors will be locked at 8:20 AM. The main door that will remain open will be the east doors entering into the Middle School hallway. All visitors are required to check in at the office upon entering the building. USE OF CROSSWALKS AND SIDEWALKS Students arriving in the morning and leaving at night are to use the sidewalks and cross only at the designated crosswalks. Teachers will be on duty after school to facilitate student safety. BICYCLE SAFETY Students are not to ride their bicycles on the sidewalks surrounding to the school. Students riding their bikes to school will be expected to walk their bike whenever on school property. Bicycles are to be placed in the racks and bicycle locks are strongly suggested. 27 FUNDRAISING Fundraising projects are necessary since school organizations need funds to operate. There are several traditional fundraisers including: PTO, Booster Club, Eighth Grade class, and the cheerleading squad. All fund raising items must be screened and approved by the administration. Solicitors of fund raising items must be screened and approved by the administration. Organized house-to-house campaigns will be limited to special projects during any one school year. TELEPHONE The school phone is a business phone and children are not to use it except in an emergency. Students must have permission from a teacher before using the phone. Except in the case of an emergency, pupils will not be called out of the classroom to take a call. ITEMS NOT ALLOWED AT SCHOOL Students should not bring unnecessary money or toys including, but not limited to baseball cards, video games, walkmans, radios, cell phones or pagers. If it is necessary for a student to bring such items to school, it should be kept in the office for safekeeping. The teachers and the principal reserve the right to collect all such items and release them only to the parent. LOST AND FOUND Any article that is found should be turned in to the office. To keep such large amounts of items from accumulating, it is suggested that all items be marked with child’s name. Periodically the lost articles will be discarded. PARTIES Parties at the elementary level will be held at each teacher’s discretion. These parties will be held the last part of the day when possible. Parties end at the classroom door. Students or parents will not be allowed to distribute invitations of any kind on school property, unless distributed to everyone in the student’s class. PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Public display of affection during school hours or at school functions is not permitted in the school building or on the school grounds. MOVIES Commercial rated G movies may be shown without parental permission. Parental permission slips will be sent home before PG and PG 13 movies are shown. No R rated movies are allowed, unless a short, school appropriate excerpt is used for educational purposes and parental permission is granted. 28 CANDY AND GUM No gum is ever allowed in the building or on school busses; candy can be on the school property during school hours for parties or special activities only. GYM SHOES All students must have gym shoes for participation in physical education class. Socks, bare feet or sandals do not provide the safety needed on a finished wood floor. Students will not be allowed to participate in class if gym shoes are not worn. BACKPACKS OR SPORTS BAGS All backpacks or sports bags must be of size to fit in the students’ wall lockers in the Middle School hallway. All backpacks and sports bags are to remain in the student’s wall lockers in the Middle School hallway during school hours. LOCKERS IN THE GYM The lockers in the gym will be used by students participating in a sport and only during that season. They are to be used only for uniforms or sports equipment and not as an overflow for the lockers in the hallway. If enough lockers are available, each middle school student will be assigned a locker to keep gym clothes and shoes for physical education. Students need to provide a combination lock for their P.E. locker. No key locks are allowed. LOCKERS All student lockers belong to the school. All student lockers shall be locked when not in use. Each Jr. High student will be issued a combination lock to keep on their hall locker. HANDBOOK POLICIES – STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY This student Policy Handbook is an important tool to help protect and provide for students and all those involved in the educational activities of Americus School. While it is the desire of the entire staff to help the students learn our school’s guidelines and rules, it is the student’s responsibility to know and abide by these regulations. 29 NOTICE TO PARENTS REGARDING FOODS & BEVERAGES FOR CLASSROOM REWARDS, PARTIES & CELEBRATIONS Please be advised that all food & beverage items brought into the school for classroom rewards, parties, & celebrations shall be limited to: Fruits and/or vegetables Pre-packaged items that meet the following nutritional guidelines per serving: *Fat – except for nuts, seeds and nut butters, 35% or less of the total calories from fat (or less than 4 g. per 100 calories) *Sugar – Except for fruit without added sugar, 35% or less of weight from total sugar (or less than 9 g. per 100 calories) This requirement is as a result of the Federal Mandated Wellness Policy adopted by the Board of Education on June 13, 2006. Thank you for your cooperation and assistance in this matter. A suggested list of items that meet requirements can be picked up at your school office. 30 Permission for Medication Name of Student __________________________________________________________________________ School ________________________________________________________ Grade _________________ Teacher _________________________________________________________________________________ Medication_______________________________________________________________________________ Dosage _________________________________________________________________________________ Date medication started ____________________________________________________________________ Time of day medication is to be given _________________________________________________________ Date ________________________ __________________________________________ Signature of Physician Anticipated side effects: ____________________________________________________________________ -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I hereby give my permission for______________________________________________________________ to take the above prescription at school as ordered. I understand that it is my responsibility to furnish this medication. I further understand that any school employee who administers any drug to my student in accordance with written instructions from the physician or dentist shall not be liable for damages as a result of an adverse drug reaction suffered by the student as a result of administering such drug. Date __________________________ __________________________________________ Signature of parent or guardian Note: The medication is to be brought to school in the original container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy, or physician, stating the name of the medication, the dosage, and times to be administered. 31 Permission for Non-Prescription Medication Name of Student __________________________________________________________________________ School ________________________________________________________ Grade _________________ Teacher _________________________________________________________________________________ Medication_______________________________________________________________________________ Dosage _________________________________________________________________________________ Date medication started ____________________________________________________________________ Time of day medication is to be given _________________________________________________________ -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I hereby give my permission for______________________________________________________________ to take the above non- prescription medication at school as ordered. I understand that it is my responsibility to furnish this medication. I further understand that any school employee who administers any drug or nonprescription medication pursuant to parental written request to my student in accordance with written instructions from the physician or dentist shall not be liable for damages as a result of an adverse drug reaction suffered by the student as a result of administering such drug. Date __________________________ __________________________________________ Signature of parent or guardian Note: The medication is to be brought to school in the original container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy, or physician, stating the name of the medication, the dosage, and times to be administered. 32 MOVIE PERMISSION FORM Americus Elementary/NLC Middle School will require all students to get parental permission to watch a movie that is rated PG or PG13. The faculty is required to preview the movie and get approval from the principal or head teacher, if the principal is gone, before the movie can be shown. Movies above PG13 will not be shown. This form is the ticket to watch the movie listed below and must be completely filled out. Please return this form to the teacher showing the movie or to the office. PLEASE CHECK ONE: I give my permission for my son/daughter to watch the movie listed. I DO NOT give permission for my son/daughter to watch the movie listed. Please note: Students will not be permitted to phone home to get permission to watch a PG or PG13 movie. Your son/daughter will not be allowed to watch the movie listed below unless this form is returned to school filled out completely. ADMIT ONE ___________________________________ __________________________ Movie Name Rating _______________________________________________ _________________________________ Parental Signature Date Student Name 33 ***NEW AGREEMENT NEEDS TO BE ENTEREND BELOW USD 251 Internet Acceptable Use Agreement We are pleased to provide network services for student access to information resources, software, and communication tools for instruction, research, and collaboration. These guidelines are provided to help ensure that network resources are used in a manner consistent with the goals of the district and that the network is used responsibly and legally. The use of the Internet is a privilege not a right, and inappropriate use may result in restricted or suspended access. The district may prohibit access to any site or resource that compromises personal privacy or safety, contains offensive of obscene material, promotes illegal activities or does not fulfill the mission of the district. Inappropriate Material The district cannot guarantee that its filtering software will block access to inappropriate materials in all instances. Parents and students are advised that some materials accessed over the internet may be illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or offensive to some people. Safety and Privacy Access to online social networking websites in prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, My Space, Xanga and Facebook. Students will not use the Internet to share personal information or to communicate with strangers. This includes chat rooms. A student may reveal his or her personal information on reliable web sites for educations reasons such as classroom research or applications for scholarships. E-Mail Students may not use email until a school account is made available. Electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private. Users will follow these netiquette guidelines for communication: Do not send any documents, photographs or messages that are obscene or sexually explicit. Do not conduct private business. Be polite and respectful in all communication. Do not send any messages that are threatening, harassing, or violent. Copyright Users are expected to obey copyright laws. Copyright means that only the artist or writer has the right to copy, modify, distribute, and perform the work. Specifically, users should follow these guidelines. Do not copy or install commercial software. Give credit to sources in all your work. Give credit to any material you may use, including pictures, video, audio, graphics, etc. Copyrighted material should not be used for private business or personal gain. Vandalism Vandalism will result in a loss of computer privileges. Vandalism is defined as a malicious attempt to destroy hardware, software, data or the network. Personal Business Users will not use the network to conduct business or purchase goods or services. 34 Cyberbullying Cyberbullying will also not be tolerated. Cyberbullying is when children or teens bully each other using the internet, cell phones, or other cyber technology. This can include, but not limited to: Sending meat text, e-mail, or instant messages. Posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on web sites. Using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone. For students who display bullying behavior, the following may be implemented: 1. Appropriate consequences for behavior. Possible consequences include: In School Suspension (2 full days) Out of School Suspension (1-5 days) Referral to local agencies Long term suspension Law enforcement called Expulsion for rest of the year Expulsion for 186 school days Payment for damages (in conjunction with other consequences) 2. Counseling for student displaying bullying behavior 3. Parental involvement Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to bullying or who has witnessed a bullying act should discuss the alleged bullying with the immediate teachers, bus driver, para, aide or principal. Any complaint must then be relayed immediately to the building principal. USD 251 will not be responsible for any information that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable due to technical difficulties. USD 251 denies responsibility for the accuracy of information obtained through the network. I understand and will abide by the above guidelines. Should I violate the guidelines, I may lose computer privilege and school disciplinary action may be taken. User’s Signature:_______________________________________________________________________ I understand that the district cannot be responsible for direct supervision of every Internet session or every communication and I will not hold the district responsible for controversial materials that may be accessed via the network. Parent or Guardian’s Signature:_______________________________________________________________ Date:________________________________ 35 USD 251 BULLYING POLICY Bullying will not be tolerated on school property, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event. Bullying is defined as repeatedly and purposely attempting to control or intimidate another person by verbal or physical acts. The person being bullied is often unable to defend himself or herself. Bullying behaviors include, but are not limited to: Physically hurting (slapping, kicking, tripping, or punching) Threatening to hurt someone Excluding someone socially Destruction or defacing of personal property Insulting others Teasing in a mean way Name calling Starting rumors Gossiping Cyberbullying will also not be tolerated. Cyberbullying is when children or teens bully each other using the internet, cell phones, or other cyber technology. This can include, but not be limited to: Sending mean text, email, or instant messages Posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on web sites Using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone For students who display bullying behavior, the following may be implemented: 4. Appropriate consequences for behavior. Possible consequences include: In School Suspension (2 full days) Out of School Suspension (1-5 days) Referral to local agencies Long term suspension Law enforcement called Expulsion for rest of the year Expulsion for 186 school days Payment for damages (in conjunction with other consequences) 5. Counseling for student displaying bullying behavior 6. Parental involvement Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to bullying or who has witnessed a bullying act should discuss the alleged bullying with the immediate teachers, bus driver, para, aide or principal. Any complaint must then be relayed immediately to the building principal. 36 AUTHORIZATION TO PHOTOGRAPH, VIDEOTAPE OR RECORD STUDENT The student or student’s parent or guardian hereby authorizes, releases and/or otherwise consents to the student being the subject of photographs, videotapes or audiotapes, or combinations thereof, that are taken, shot or recorded at school or school related activities. The district and/or any of its employees or agents is specifically given the right and permission to cause the student’s likeness or voice or both to be recorded and exhibited as still photographs, transparencies, motion pictures, television, video (videotape recordings) or other similar media, including Internet applications. The district and/or any of its employees or agents is specifically given the right and permission to distribute, copyright and/or use, reuse and/or broadcast, rebroadcast, publish and republish still photographs, transparencies, motion pictures, television, video (videotape recordings) or other similar media, including Internet applications. The student waives the right to inspect or approve the finished still photograph, transparencies, motion pictures, television, video (videotape recordings) or other similar media including any sound track associated therewith, or advertising copy or printed matter that mat be used in conjunction therewith or the eventual use that may be made of such still photograph, transparencies, motion pictures, television, vide (videotape recordings) or other similar media, including Internet applications. The student specifically authorizes the reproduction, sale, exhibition, broadcast and/or distribution of this material without limitation. Student Signature Parent or Legal Guardian Signature Date Date Keep in student file. 37