Secondary School Student Handbook

District Mission Statement: The BKW CSD will provide an environment that fosters the creative, emotional, intellectual, and physical well-being of each student in order to enable a mastery of the curriculum and a life-long learning capability to meet the challenges of the future.

The Board of Education (“Board”) is committed to providing a safe and orderly school environment where students may receive and district personnel may deliver quality educational services without disruption or interference. Responsible behavior by students, teachers, school personnel, parents and visitors is essential to achieving this goal.

The Berne-Knox-Westerlo School District (the district) has a long-standing set of expectations for conduct on school property and at school functions. These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, character, tolerance, honesty and integrity.

The Board recognizes the need to clearly define these expectations for acceptable conduct on school property, to identify the possible consequences of unacceptable conduct, and to ensure that discipline, when necessary, is administered promptly and fairly. All violations of New York State’s and US Federal criminal laws, even if not stated in this document, are automatically covered. To this end, the Board adopts this code of conduct (“code”).

Unless otherwise indicated, this does apply to all students, school personnel, parents and other visitors when on school property or for students attending a school sponsored event off school property.

The school conduct and discipline codes are part of New York State SAVE legislation. This handbook constitutes the required SAVE notification.

Student’s Rights and Responsibilities

The district is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law. In addition, to promote a safe, healthy orderly and civil school environment, all district students have the right to:

• Take part in all district activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, gender or sexual orientation or disability.
• Present their version of the relevant events to school personnel.
  Access school rules and, when necessary, receive an explanation of those rules from school personnel.
• Be protected from discrimination on the basis of gender in educational or extra-curricular programs (Federal Law, Title IX). Students having concerns in this regard should contact the building Principal, Title IX coordinator, in the secondary school office.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning and to show respect to other persons and to property.
• Be familiar with and abide by all district policies, rules and regulations.
• Attend school every day unless excused and be in class on time, and prepared to learn.
• Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive toward their highest level of achievement possible.
• React to direction given by teachers, administrators and other school personnel in a respectful, positive manner.
• Work to develop mechanisms to control their anger.
• Ask questions when they do not understand.
• Seek help in solving problems that might lead to disciplinary action.
• Dress appropriately for school and school functions.
• Accept responsibility for their actions.
• Hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.

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BKW Secondary School Philosophy Statement

To provide an environment where students, through practice and example, consistently exhibit self-discipline, self-respect, and respect for others.

• BKW students practice self-discipline.
• BKW students respect teachers, staff and peers.
• BKW students have respect for property.
• BKW students are courteous.
• BKW students are aware of their appearance.
• BKW students are responsible.
• BKW students possess good character.
• BKW students are aware of safety procedures on buses and in the school building.

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Responsibilities of Parents as Essential Partners

All parents are expected to:

• Recognize that the education of their child (ren) is a joint responsibility of the parents and the school community and collaborate with the district to optimize their child’s educational opportunities.
• Send their children to school ready to participate and learn.
• Ensure their children attend school regularly and on time.
• Ensure legal absences are excused.
• Ensure their children be dressed and groomed in a manner consistent with the students dress code.
• Help their children understand that in a democratic society appropriate rules are required to maintain a safe, orderly environment.
• Know school rules and help their children understand them so that their children can help create a safe, supportive school environment.
• Convey to their children a supportive attitude toward education and the district.
• Build positive, constructive relationships with teachers, other parents, and their children’s friends.
• Help their children deal effectively with peer pressure.
• Inform school officials of changes in the home situation that may affect student conduct or performance.
• Provide a place for study and ensure homework assignments are completed.

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Attendance Policies and Procedures

Attendance

Secondary School classes begin at 7:45 a.m. Students are dismissed at 2:17p.m. If a student needs to arrive prior to opening, he or she must report to the cafeteria upon entering the building and remain there until the buses unload. Those not doing so will be subject to discipline according to the Code of Conduct.

The daily attendance occurs during the first few minutes of first period. Students arriving late are considered tardy to school and tardy to their first period class and must report to the main office to be signed in. Failure to sign in will result in progressive discipline. Students may also face disciplinary consequences from their first period teacher.

Students staying after school for any reason must be under a teacher’s supervision at all times until 3:20 p.m. Students will report to the cafeteria at 3:20 p.m. to be supervised until the departure. Bus passes are required in order to ride the late buses.

Dismissals and Absences

State law requires that all pupils attend school during all days and all hours that school is in session. All instances of student absence, tardiness, or early release require a parent/guardian excuse. These excuses must contain:

• Student Name (first and last)
• Grade Level
• Date of absence(s), tardiness, or early release
• Reason for absence, tardiness, or early release
• Parent/guardian signature
• Means of transportation (If not picked up by a guardian – early release excuses only).

Excused Absences

The student shall be present on each scheduled school day and attend all classes. Excused absences for which the teacher will assist with makeup work include:

• personal illness or death in the family
• approved college visitations
• obligatory religious observance
• music lessons
• school field trips
• other school activities

Excused absences should be kept to a minimum. Excessive absences may have an impact on a student’s ability to pass a course.

Unexcused Absences

All other absences are unexcused or truant. Unexcused (those with parent permission, but not for one of the reasons mentioned above) require the student to request work missed. A student who is truant or cuts a class will receive zeroes for work missed and will not have the opportunity to make up assignments.

Any absence without a parental excuse (written or verbal) within three days of the student’s return to school will be recorded and remain on their permanent record as an unexcused absence. Unexcused students may not have an opportunity to make up and/or receive a grade for the work that was missed during their period of absence. If the absence is due to truancy, disciplinary consequences will be applied according to the Code of Conduct. Please understand that an administrator may request written documentation/verification for absences, excused releases, and/or tardiness due to “personal reasons” and medical or dental appointments.

Early Dismissal

Students who must be released from school are required to bring a parent/guardian excuse and present it to the office prior to their first period class/study hall. The excuse should specify: name, date, time to be excused, destination, and reason for leaving, means of transportation from school and telephone number by which the above information may be confirmed. Students failing to present their excuse prior to first period will receive a warning and subsequent offenses may result in progressive discipline. All early dismissals are recorded in the student’s attendance file.

In the event of an emergency or illness during the school day, all students must report to the Nurse or Principal for permission to leave the building. Only the nurse or principal may contact the Parent for permission. Students may not do so. Failure to follow this procedure will result in disciplinary consequences. Leaving school without prior permission from the Nurse or Principal will be considered Truancy.

If a student does not have driving privileges, a parent/guardian/legal representative must sign the student out in the main office and sign them back in when they return. If a student has driving privileges, a parent/guardian must send in a written note in order for a student to leave early.

Returning from Absences

All students returning to school from an absence must report to the main office upon re-entering the school building and present their parent/guardian excuse. Extended absence of three or more days due to illness or excessive absenteeism requires a statement from a doctor.

Homework Requests

Students absent for legal reasons may request homework assignments through the guidance office. Homework requests should be made before 9:30 a.m. in order to provide sufficient time for teachers to complete these requests. The guidance office will provide the teachers’ class work and homework assignments within 24 hours of the request. Assignments may be picked up in the guidance office by a parent or parent designee.

Tardiness to Class

Students must be in class and prepared when the bell rings. Classroom teachers handle routine discipline for unexcused tardiness to class. Repeat offenses will result in referral to Administration.

Tardiness to School

It is expected that students will report to school on time, except in unavoidable emergency circumstances. Students arriving late to school must report to the main office and sign in. A parent/guardian excuse must be presented at the time of the student’s arrival or no later than the following day. Failure to sign in will be processed as Truancy. Students are limited to six tardies per semester, combined excused and unexcused. Repeated tardiness will result in disciplinary action.

Truancy

Truancy is any absence from school without consent or prior knowledge of parent/guardian or school. This includes skipping school, tardiness to school, unofficial parties or picnics and leaving school without permission. Disciplinary consequences will be assigned in all cases of truancy.

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Cafeteria/Lunch Periods

Lunchtime is a time to relax and socialize with friends. Students are to exercise good judgment in the use of their lunch period. Students will remain in the cafeteria until the period ends. Students must abide by all off-limits regulations. Lavatories available to students during lunch periods are those in the main hall. All other lavatories are off-limits. Students failing to abide by these rules will receive disciplinary consequences. The use of snack machines in the cafeteria is allowed during a student’s lunch period as well as before and after school if the machine is turned on.

Cafeteria and Line Behavior

BKW students demonstrate safe behavior while eating in the cafeteria by following directions of the lunch monitors/supervisors and kitchen staff, picking up anything dropped on the floor, reporting any spills to the lunch monitors/supervisors, keeping all food in the cafeteria, and depositing all garbage in the appropriate trash or recycling containers. Students failing to obey these rules may be required to serve clean-up detail under the direction of faculty supervisors, restricted lunch and other disciplinary consequences. No food or beverages may be taken out of the cafeteria. Students may not order food from outside businesses (delivered or take-out) to be eaten at school. These items will be confiscated and disciplinary consequences followed. The only exception is for seniors who have senior privilege to leave for lunch.

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Off Limits

A student is off-limits if the student is anywhere other than his/her supervised class, without an authorized pass.

• Students are not permitted in the halls or bathroom during class periods without a pass or unless accompanied by a teacher.
• Students are not permitted in the PE locker rooms unless it is during their regularly scheduled class period. This will result in immediate disciplinary consequences.
• Once students are on school grounds, they may not leave for any reason without permission.
• All outdoor areas are off-limits during the school day except those marked for student privileges.
• All vehicles and the parking lots are off-limits during the school day except for students who have been granted senior privilege to leave school during specific times of the day.

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Dress Code

How you look affects how you feel and behave as well as how others feel and behave. School is a work environment for both students and staff. All students are expected to pay attention to their personal hygiene and to dress appropriately for school and for all school sponsored activities. Students and their parents are primarily responsible to see to it that students are appropriately dressed for school. Please reflect this in your attire. Should the question arise as to the appropriateness of any student attire, we will follow the New York State Department of Education guidelines as follows:

Student attire should pass the test of:

• Decency
• Health
• Safety
• Non-interference in the educational process

Based on these criteria, a student’s dress, grooming and appearance including jewelry shall:

• Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.
• Recognize that extremely brief garments such as tube tops, net tops, plunging necklines (front and/or back) and see-through garments and shorts may not be appropriate.
• Ensure that undergarment is completely covered with outer clothing.
• Include safe and appropriate footwear at all times.
• Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous, or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
• Not include articles of clothing which are sexually implicit or explicit (contain messages or imagery).
• Not include halter tops, spaghetti strap tops (single or multiple), tube tops, half-shirts, “muscle” shirts, shirts missing sides or clothing that reveals the midriff or other areas during regular activity.
• Not promote and/or endorse alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs and/or encourage other illegal or violent activities.
• Not display guns or any other weaponry.
• No tattoos should be visible on students who are below age 18 (As per New York State Law).
• No display of swastikas or confederate flags is allowed on school grounds.
• Volleyball and track shorts are not allowed. Shorts should be of moderate length as determined by school personnel.
• Bathing attire and pajamas are not to be worn to school.
• Sheer, mesh or backless apparel is not allowed.
• Costumes and/or masks (other than at approved functions) are not allowed

The building principal or his or her designee shall be responsible for informing all students and their parents of the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code made during the school year.

School personnel will interpret the appropriateness of the student’s dress in all situations. The principal will exclude from school or class any student deemed improperly dressed until correction is made. Students in violation may not return to class until the item is covered or changed. Clothing items are available in the Nurse’s office. Repeat offenses will result in disciplinary action.

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Electronic Devices

Cell Phones

Cell phones should be off and stowed during the school day (7:55 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.) unless approved in advance for educational purposes by the building principal. Students are encouraged to keep their phones secured in a school or gym locker during the school day. Students using cell phones during the school day may have the phone confiscated. The phone will remain in the main office until a parent is able to come to the school and retrieve it. Repeat offenses will result in disciplinary action. Students will however be allowed to use their cell phones to play games, text or listen to music with an ear phone during their lunch period. Any inappropriate use of cellphones to degrade, humiliate or to make others uncomfortable will be addressed by the administration as a discipline issue.

Other Electronic Devices

Students may not carry, wear, or use any electronic music devices with earphones at any time except in the cafeteria during their lunch or senior lounge period. Pagers, lasers and walkie-talkies are not allowed. Items will be confiscated until a parent is able to pick them up. Repeat offenses will result in disciplinary action.

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Fire Drills

A fire evacuation plan is posted in each room. Students are responsible for becoming familiar with evacuation plans in all of their classrooms.

In accordance with New York State regulations, several emergency evacuation/”fire drills” will be held during the school year.

When the fire alarm sounds, students are to file out of the room and walk quickly and quietly to the designated exit. Running or talking is not permitted. The first students to reach outside doors are to hold them open until all have left the building. Students are to remain with their grades assigned area until they receive further instruction by school staff.

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Communications/Posters/Signs

Permission to post any type of printed material or art work must be obtained through the Principal’s Office as the Superintendent’s designee.

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Computer Use

Berne-Knox-Westerlo Central School District provides students with access to the Internet. Students’ use of school computers and Internet access are privileges intended to be for educational purposes only.

All parents and students are required to review and sign the computer usage policy prior to the use of school computer resources. With that signature, parents and students agree to the regulations set forth therein. Failure to comply with the guidelines will result in disciplinary action.

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Transportation

Bus Pickup

Students will wait for their bus at their designated stop. Unauthorized changing from one bus stop to another bus stop is prohibited. Students will be picked up and dropped off from the same place each day during the school year unless prior arrangements are made.

Student behavior at the bus stop is the responsibility of parents or guardians. Students are expected to be courteous and to respect other people’s property at all times.

Prior to the bus approaching a pick up point, students will form a line in an orderly manner/fashion without shoving or pushing one another.

Buses are not permitted to stop while on route for parents whose child has missed the bus at the regular stop.

Bus Safety Rules

The driver has responsibility for all students while entering, riding, or leaving the bus. Students are expected to behave, follow the driver’s directions, and not distract the driver. The following are examples of prohibited behavior:

• Fighting
• Using profanity, yelling, or distracting the driver
• Changing seat while the bus is in motion
• Damaging the bus seats (writing on, puncturing or cutting the seats, etc.)
• Placing any part of the body outside the bus
• Eating/drinking on the bus without special permission
• Possessing, using or being under the influence of any performance altering substances, drugs, alcohol, and/or tobacco
• Possession and/or using vaping devices or e-cigarettes
• Possessing and/or using any type of weapon
• Littering and/or throwing objects

An object that can be placed on the lap of the student and does not protrude into the aisle is permitted on the bus. Live animals, glass containers, and large objects (tuba, cello, skis, etc.) are prohibited.

Changing from one bus to another bus is prohibited unless the main office grants an exception. Requests for students to ride another bus to a party, lessons, meeting, sleepover, etc. will generally not be granted. The district’s responsibility is to safely transport students to and from one location for educationally related activities.

When approaching or departing the bus, all students who have to cross the road to or from their home must exercise extreme caution. Cross at least ten feet in front of the bus in full view of the driver (students should be able to see the driver’s face), wait for the driver to signal before crossing, and never retrieve dropped objects or return into the path of traffic.

Parents are discouraged from requesting to pick up students off the bus while the bus is en-route.

Bus Discipline

Students who violate the bus rules will be reported to the transportation supervisor. A Student Discipline Report Form will be completed and sent to the building principal. Disciplinary action will be taken by the principal according to the Code of Conduct. Removal from district transportation, either short term or long term, is a potential consequence.

Bus Passes

A written note/request is required for a bus pass to be given. Requests for a pass require a reason, a parent/guardian signature, and a phone number for confirmation. Texts are not a note. Phone calls need to be received BEFORE prior to 1 p.m. to grant a bus pass and will only be given in EMERGENCY situations. Bus passes are required to ride the late buses at 3:20 p.m. (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday). They must be obtained from the supervising teacher and if taking a different bus home, the student must bring the pass and parent note to the office for a new late bus pass.

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Student Driving and Parking

Parking is a privilege available to seniors in good standing academically and behaviorally and to eligible juniors in good standing providing space is available. Recreational vehicles or tractors are not permitted on school grounds.

Students must obtain a Parent Permission/Vehicle Registration Form from the Main Office. This form must be renewed each year. All vehicles must be properly listed on the registration form as a permit and mirror tag (FOB) will be issued per vehicle. No FOBs will be issued unless the form is returned. Students who drive must be present in their 1st period class on time, unless this is a senior privilege.

Parking Rules

All vehicles must be properly registered with the FOB properly displayed.

• Vehicle must be properly parked.
• Students must remove keys and lock vehicles.
• Students must enter school immediately upon parking.
• Students are not allowed in vehicles during the school day. If a student must return to his/her vehicle after parking, he/she must obtain permission from the main office.
• Students are expected to arrive at school and be present in first period class/study hall on time. (Excessive tardiness will result in loss of privileges as outlined in attendance policy.)

Failure to observe the above regulations WILL result in loss of parking privileges and may also result in other disciplinary responses disciplinary action.

Moving Violations

School property is an extension of public roads and drivers are subject to normal highway rules and regulations.

All moving violations will result in a loss of parking privileges as listed below and prosecution under motor vehicle law if applicable.

Examples of moving violations include:

• Speeding (maximum speed on school grounds is 10 MPH).
• Passing school buses with their flashing red lights on.
• Breaking into the line of buses while either entering or exiting the lot.
• Reckless driving (squealing tires, excessive speed for the conditions, horseplay, etc.).
• Truancy (including leaving school grounds in any vehicle without following proper procedures).
• Riding in any vehicle to or from BOCES without PRIOR prior parent and school authorization and written permission from BOCES.

Moving violations will result in suspension of privileges and disciplinary action.

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Academic Standards

Plagiarism

The Berne-Knox-Westerlo Secondary School learning community expects all students to abide by ethical academic standards. Academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, cheating or copying the work of another, using technology for illicit purposes, or any unauthorized communication between students for the purpose of gaining advantage during an examination, is strictly prohibited. BKW’s Academic Integrity Policy covers all school-related tests, quizzes, reports, assignments and projects, both in and out of class. The purpose of BKW’s Academic Integrity Policy is to prepare students for the world of college and beyond, where violations of academic and professional integrity have significant consequences. Plagiarism is not the same as cooperation or collaboration.

Plagiarism is to commit literary theft; to steal and pass off as one’s own ideas or words, and to create the production of another. When you use someone else’s words, you must put quotation marks around them and cite the source. If you revise or paraphrase the words of someone else or use someone else’s ideas, you must give the author credit. To use someone else’s words or ideas without giving credit to the originator is plagiarism.

Cheating includes, but is not limited to; copying or giving an assignment to a student to be copied (unless explicitly permitted by the teacher). Cheating also includes using, supplying, or communicating in any way unauthorized materials, including textbooks, notes, calculators, computers or other unauthorized technology, during an exam or project.

Forgery or stealing academic material includes, but is not limited to; gaining unauthorized access to exams or answers to an exam, altering computer or grade-book records, or forging signatures for the purpose of academic advantage.

The determination that a student has engaged in academic dishonesty shall be based on specific evidence provided by the classroom teacher or other supervising professional employee, taking into consideration written materials, observation, or information from others.

Students found to have engaged in academic dishonesty shall be subject to disciplinary as well as academic penalties, as outlined below.

Range of Possible Consequences

Copying class work or homework

• Zero on assignment
• Parent notification
• Department Chair notification
• Detention
• Suspension

Plagiarizing or cheating on an exam or assignment

• Zero on assignment
• Guidance counselor notification
• Parent / student / teacher / guidance counselor conference
• Referral to administration

Forgery or stealing academic material

• Referral to administration
• Detention
• Suspension

Grade Descriptors

• 95+ Superior
• 90 – 94 Excellent
• 85 – 89 Very Good
• 80 – 84 Good
• 75 – 79 Average
• 70- 74 Below Proficiency
• 65 – 69 Minimum Proficiency
• 0 – 64 Failing

College Based 4.0 Conversion Chart

100 = 4.00
99 = 3.93
98 = 3.87
97 = 3.80
96 = 3.73
95 = 3.67
94 = 3.60
93 = 3.53
92 = 3.47
91 = 3.40
90 = 3.30
89 = 3.27
88 = 3.20
87 = 3.13
86 = 3.07
85 = 3.00
84 = 2.95
83 = 2.90
82 = 2.85
81 = 2.80
80 = 2.75
79 = 2.70
78 = 2.65
77 = 2.60
76 = 2.55
75 = 2.50
74 = 2.45
73 = 2.40
72 = 2.35
71 = 2.30
70 = 2.25
69 = 2.20
68 = 2.15
67 = 2.10
66 = 2.05
65 = 2.00
64 = 1.91
63 = 1.82
62 = 1.73
61 = 1.64
60 = 1.55
59 = 1.45
58 = 1.36
57 = 1.27
56 = 1.18
55 = 1.09
0-54 = 1.00

Guidance Services

The purpose of the guidance program is to help all students develop and acquire the skills, abilities, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to plan for their futures. Counselors or students may schedule conferences at any time deemed necessary. Students must sign in after arriving at the guidance office.

School counselors assist students:

• To make plans for their future in and out of school.
• To learn to identify and understand their values and how they affect their lives.
• To learn personal planning and problem-solving skills useful in present and future situations
• To learn how to secure appropriate occupational and educational training.

Report Cards

Report cards are distributed every ten weeks to notify students and parents of student learning progress. Five-week progress reports are distributed five weeks into each ten week quarter.

Honor Roll

Determined by averaging the numerically (0-100) graded course marks and dividing said average by the number of courses in progress.

• High Honors- 94.5-100 %
• Honors- 89.5-94.49 %
• Honorable Mention- 84.5-89.49%

FINAL SCHOOL MARK for a full year course is calculated from each of the 4 quarter averages and the final exam grade and dividing by five (5).

FINAL SCHOOL MARK for a half year course is determined by doubling the 2 quarter averages.

As of September 1, 2015 passing in all subjects grades 7-12 is 65.

Course Drops

To drop a course, a form must be secured from the guidance office, completed and then signed by the course teacher, school counselor, principal, and parent. Students will not be allowed to drop after first five weeks full year course but if class is dropped it will show as a drop/fail on transcript. Half year courses cannot be dropped after the first 2 weeks. Students dropping classes after two weeks must have parental permission.

Testing Services

Testing covers all grades. In grades 7 – 12, students are tested for scholastic ability, achievement, and aptitude. These test results help students to realize their strengths and weaknesses, aid in course selection, and help teachers know more about their students. In addition to standard testing services, provision is made for students to take all college admission and achievement examinations at the appropriate grade levels. A schedule of these tests is available from the guidance office. Students will also be notified of tests well in advance of the testing date.

Career And Technical Education (CTE) Diploma Endorsement

Students pursuing a Career and Technical Education (CTE) endorsement on their diploma must meet all of the assessment requirements for BKW diploma options. Students may meet the unitary graduation requirements of 22 units through an integrated career and technical education program, specialized courses, or a combination of the two. Students must also successfully meet all the requirements of their NYS approved Career and Technical Education program.

Requirements for a local diploma by passing the respective Regents Competency Examination in the CTE subject area.

Students with disabilities first entering grade 9 in the 2006-2007 school years and thereafter students who score 55-64 on a required Regents examination are eligible to earn a local diploma.

Regents Diploma Endorsement per New York State Regulations

5 Assessments, scoring at 65% or better:
English—English Language Arts Regents Exam
Social Studies—U.S. History & Government and Global History & Geography Regents Exam
Math—Integrated Algebra Exam
Science—Physical Setting or Living Environment Regents Exams

Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation

8 Assessments, scoring at 65% or better:
English—English Language Arts Regents Exam
Social Studies—U.S. History & Government and Global History & Geography Regents Exams
Math—Integrated Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry Exams
Science—1 Physical Science and 1 Life Science Regents Exam
Foreign Language—Language 3 Comprehensive Exam

Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Criteria listed below will be used to determine the valedictorian and salutatorian of the senior high school(s) of the Berne-Knox-Westerlo Central School District. An eligible student must attend the Berne-Knox-Westerlo Central School District for a minimum of three (3) full academic years, prior to graduation, from grades 9 through 12.

Student must be enrolled as a full-time student (6.0 credits) at the time of graduation.

Only the average of grades earned in the Berne-Knox-Westerlo Central School District through the end of the third quarter of the senior year will be used to select the final candidate. Course credits earned in other high schools, in summer schools other than those conducted by Berne-Knox-Westerlo Central School District, and post high school college credits will not be used in determining the final selection of a valedictorian or salutatorian. AP classes will be weighted 1.04 in determining the cumulative average for class rank.

If there is a tie between two students for valedictorian or co-salutatorian within 1/100th of a point, a co-valedictorian or co-salutatorian may be awarded at the discretion of the secondary administration.

Eligibility will not be restricted in any way by virtue of the type of courses undertaken by the students.

The valedictorian and salutatorian will be afforded the opportunity to speak at commencement. This does not eliminate other students as determined by the school administration from speaking at commencement, i.e. senior class president, president of the student senate, etc.

Students eligible for graduation at the end of their junior year can qualify under the above criteria. In addition to being eligible as valedictorian and salutatorian, the student graduating at the end of his/her junior year will be permitted to participate in all other senior activities, i.e., prom, inclusion in the yearbook, social functions, etc. It is important to note that the student who opts for graduation at the end of the junior year must fulfill all other requirements of Board of Education policy dealing with early graduation including the determination of the student’s status in the year proceeding the junior year.

Study Halls

All students are assigned study halls as part of their academic day. This time is to be used to study, complete work or seek extra help if available. Seniors with privileges may sign out to a supervised area and must do so on a daily basis as there is no permanent sign out.

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Student Lockers

A locker is assigned to each student. Locker assignments may not be changed without permission from the office. Only school locks are permitted for use on school lockers. Locks may be rented in the office.

Students are financially responsible for all school property in their charge. Lockers must be locked at all times. Students are not permitted to use an unassigned locker, share lockers, or locker combinations with another student. BKW cannot assume responsibility for lost or stolen property.

Oversized items may be stored in the P.E. teacher’s office during class. To reduce the risk of theft, keep all personal items and books secured in the locker with the lock properly engaged, including P.E. lockers.

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Student Clubs and Activities

• Make all arrangements for student activities/events through the class/activity advisor and the principal.
• Fill out the activity form and building use form. If special rooms are needed, the sponsor notifies the appropriate faculty member. Obtain form from the main office a week in advance and have it signed by advisor and principal.
• Obtain required number of faculty chaperones at least a week before the activity is held. A minimum number of four (4) is required; six (6) are required for dances. Principal and sponsor will determine the required chaperone number for other activities.
• Arrange with the cafeteria manager if kitchen facilities are needed.
• If there are decorations or refreshments, a clean-up committee is required.
• Ensure that if there is entertainment (music), the financial arrangements must be handled through extra-curricular funds.
• If funds are handled, they are to be secured in the school vault and deposited through the extra-curricular fund the next school day.

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Telephones

A telephone for students’ use is available in the main office. To ensure availability, use should be restricted to emergencies. Students are not to use cell phones during school hours except in the main office with administration’s permission.

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Health Services

Students who are injured or become ill during the school day must obtain a pass to the Health Office from the classroom teacher. Students report directly to the nurse only in an emergency. Students are responsible to make sure they are signed into the Health Office by the Nurse. The nurse will render assistance and, if necessary, make arrangements with the parent or guardian for student care. Students cannot return to class without a signed pass from the nurse.

For safety reasons, no student is permitted to leave school due to illness prior to consulting the school nurse to make arrangements to leave and must sign out in the office. Students leaving school or missing class without following the above procedure will be considered truant and will be subject to disciplinary action.

Students who will be absent for an extended period for health reasons may arrange for home-bound instruction through the Guidance Office. The need for home-bound instruction must be verified by a physician. Health counseling is available from the School Nurse.

Physical Examination

The district requires and will provide a free physical examination for children who:

• Are in grades Pre-K, K, 2, 4, 7, and 10.
• Participate in interscholastic sports.
• Need working papers.
• Are referred by/to the Committee on Special Education.

Sports Physicals

Sports physicals are given by the school physician in the summer, fall and late spring of each school year. Should a major injury or surgery occur after the physical is given, a release to participate from the student’s physician is required. Students are notified of physicals 2-3 weeks in advance through daily announcements, verbal communication from the physical education teachers, coaches and posters placed throughout the building. Students will sign up for physicals in the health office.

Working Papers

To apply for working papers a student must have a current physical exam. Physical examinations for working papers can be performed by the student’s physician or the school physician when available. Working papers and forms are available in the guidance office.

Illness and Emergency Procedures

If your child is allergic to insect bites or bee stings, please contact the school nurse regarding emergency measures.

Please keep your child home if s/he has a temperature of 100 degrees or greater. Children with severe symptoms from stomach virus, chest congestion, colds, and/or having a high fever should have 24 hours symptom free before returning to school. If your child is taking an antibiotic for any contagious disease, s/he may return to school after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment. This is important for the health and safety of all students.

Please remember to contact the school nurse when your child is absent. A written excuse is required for all student absences.

Medication Procedures

The Bureau of School Health Services of the State Education Department has established the following guidelines for the administration of medication in the school.

• The school nurse may only dispense prescribed and over-the-counter medication with written permission from parent and physician.
• Medicine must be in original containers.
• All medicine must be kept in the Health Office and given out by the nurse.
• Parents should bring medications to the nurse in a labeled and dated container.
• No medication is allowed on the school bus.
• Medications prescribed for three times a day may be given before school, after school, and at bedtime. This dosage schedule eliminates the need to send medications to school.

In the event that medication must be administered at school, the following guidelines must be followed in advance:

• School nurse must be provided with a note from the child’s parent or guardian requesting that the named medication be administered at school.
• School nurse must be provided with a note from a physician stating the medication, dosage and frequency.

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Prohibited Student Conduct

The Board of Education expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, district personnel and other members of the school community, and for the care of school facilities and equipment.

The best discipline is self-imposed, and students must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their misbehavior. District personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on educating students so that they may grow in self-discipline.

Students who will not accept responsibility for their own behavior and who violate these school rules will be required to accept the consequences for their conduct.

Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school, when they:

Attendance Level (Level 1 Infractions)

1.1 Tardy to school 3-7 times
1.2 8 Tardies
1.3 Unexcused
1.4 Truancy
1.5 Unexcused absence from school

Insubordination Level (Level 2 Infractions)

2.2 Skipping 2:38- 3:20. Detention
2.3 Forged excuse/ pass
2.4 Disruptive behavior/ refusal to follow class routine
2.5 Disrespectful or disobeying teacher
2.6 Unprepared for class
2.7 Foul language or gesture
2.8 Foul language or gesture to school personnel
2.9 Disruptive on bus or in cafeteria
2.11 Throwing food in cafeteria
2.12 Refusal to follow directions in emergency
2.13 Repeated failure to submit assigned work
2.14 Leaving class w/o permission
3. Violation level (Level 3 Infractions)
3.1 In hallway without a pass
3.2 Dress Code Violation
3.3 Improper use of electronic devices
3.4 Cheating (automatic zero)/ plagiarism
3.5 Destroying, littering, defacing or theft of others’ (school)
3.6 Unsafe behavior on school property
3.7 Unauthorized departure from school building
3.8 Computer misuse
3.9 Defacing School property
3.11 Theft
3.12 Smoking or in possession of tobacco
3.13 Possession of obscene material

Violent and Disruptive Incidents (Level 4 Infractions)

4.1 Homicide
4.2.1 Forcible sex offenses
4.2.2 Non- forcible sex offenses
4.3 Robbery
4.4 Assault with physical injury
4.5 Arson
4.6 Kidnapping
4.7 Assault with physical harm
4.8 Reckless endangerment
4.9 Minor altercations
4.10 Harassment/ Bullying
4.11 Burglary
4.12 Criminal Mischief
4.13 Larceny and other theft
4.14 Bomb threat
4.15 False activation of a fire alarm
4.16 Riot
4.17 Possession of weapon
4.18 Use, possession sale of controlled substance
4.19 Use, possession sale of alcohol

The following is a more detailed list of prohibited student conduct by categories:

Level 2 Infractions:

Engaging in conduct that is disorderly.

Examples of disorderly conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Using language or gestures that are profane, lewd, vulgar or abusive.
2. Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
3. Trespassing. Students are not permitted in any school building, other than the one they regularly attend, without permission from the administrator in charge of the building.
4. Computer/electronic communications misuse, including any unauthorized use of computers, software, or internet/intranet account; accessing inappropriate websites; or any other violation of the district’s acceptable use policy.

Engaging in conduct that is insubordinate.

Examples of insubordinate conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school administrators or other school employees in charge of students or otherwise demonstrating disrespect.
2. Lateness for, missing or leaving school without permission.
3. Skipping detention.
4. Display or use of personal electronic devices, such as, but not limited to, cell phones, I-pods, digital cameras, in a manner that is in violation of district policy.

Engaging in misconduct while on a school bus.

It is crucial for students to behave appropriately while riding on district buses to ensure their safety and that of other passengers and to avoid distracting the bus driver. Students are required to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior. Excessive noise, pushing, shoving and fighting will not be tolerated.

Level 3 Infractions:

Engaging in conduct that is disruptive.

Examples of disruptive conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school administrators or other school personnel in charge of students.
2. Inappropriate contact of a sexual nature.
3. Engaging in any willful act which disrupts the normal operation of the school community.

Engaging in any form of academic misconduct.

Examples of academic misconduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Plagiarism.
2. Cheating.
3. Copying.
4. Altering records.
5. Assisting another student in any of the above actions.

Level 4 Infractions:

Engaging in conduct that is violent.

Examples of violent conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon a teacher, administrator, or other school employee or attempting to do so.
2. Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon another student or any other person lawfully on school property or attempting to do so.
3. Possessing a weapon. Authorized law enforcement officials are the only persons permitted to have a weapon in their possession while on school property or at a school function.
4. Displaying what appears to be a weapon.
5. Threatening to use any weapon.
6. Intentionally damaging or destroying the personal property of a student, teacher, administrator, other district employee or any person lawfully on school property, including graffiti or arson.
7. Intentionally damaging or destroying school district property.

Engaging in any conduct that endangers the safety, physical or mental health or welfare of the student or others.

Examples of such conduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Subjecting other students, school personnel, or any other person lawfully on school property or attending a school function to danger by recklessly engaging in conduct which creates a substantial risk or physical injury.
2. Stealing the property of other students, school personnel or any other person lawfully on school property or attending a school function.
3. Defamation, which includes making false or unprivileged statements or representations about an individual or identifiable group of individuals that harm the reputation of the person or the identifiable group by demeaning them.
4. Discrimination, which includes the use of race, color, creed, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, sex, gender (identity and expression), sexual orientation, weight, or disability to deny rights, equitable treatment or access to facilities available to others.
5. Harassment, which includes a sufficiently severe action or a persistent, pervasive pattern of actions or statements directed at an identifiable individual or group which are intended to be or which a reasonable person would perceive as ridiculing or demeaning.
6. Intimidation, which includes engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in fear of bodily harm.
7. Bullying. This includes hostile activity which harms or induces fear through the threat of further aggression and/or creates terror.
8. Hazing, which includes an induction, initiation, or membership process involving harassment and which produces public humiliation, physical or emotional discomfort, bodily injury or public ridicule, or creates a situation where public humiliation, physical or emotional discomfort, bodily injury or public ridicule is likely to occur.
9. The use of media to invade privacy (such as taking pictures or videos without consent) of students, or staff or posting inappropriate comments on social media sites (Facebook, Snap Chat, Twitter, etc.).
10. Selling, using or possessing obscene material.
11. Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing or swearing.
12. Smoking a cigarette, cigar, pipe, using chewing or smokeless tobacco, or any mechanical device that simulates smoking.
13. Possessing, consuming, selling, distributing or exchanging alcoholic beverages or illegal substances, or being under the influence of either, or possessing any paraphernalia designed to ingest drugs, alcohol, and tobacco or nicotine substances.
14. “Illegal substances” include, but are not limited to, inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, look-alike drugs, synthetic marijuana, and any substances commonly referred to as “designer drugs.”
15. Inappropriately using or sharing prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
16. Gambling, or the perception of gambling.
17. Indecent exposure, that is, exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or indecent manner.
18. Initiating a report warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misuse of 911, discharging a fire extinguisher, playing with or tampering with the emergency communication receivers, or defibrillators.

Engaging in off-campus misconduct that interferes with, or can reasonably be expected to substantially disrupt the educational process in the school or at a school function.

Examples of such misconduct include, but are not limited to:

1. Cyberbullying (i.e. inflicting willful and repeated harm through the use of electronic text).
2. Threatening or harassing students or school personnel over the phone or other electronic medium.

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Reporting Violations

All students are expected to promptly report violations of the code of conduct to a teacher, guidance counselor, the building principal or his or her designee. Any student observing a student possessing a weapon, alcohol or illegal substance on school property or at a school function shall report this information immediately to a teacher, the building principal, the assistant principal, the dean of students or the superintendent.

Any weapon, alcohol or illegal substance found shall be confiscated immediately, if possible, followed by notification to the parent of the student involved and the appropriate disciplinary sanction, if warranted, which may include permanent suspension and referral for prosecution.

The building principal or his or her designee must notify the appropriate local law enforcement agency of those code violations that constitute a crime and substantially affect the order or security of a school as soon as practical, but in no event later than the close of business the day the principal or his or her designee learns of the violation. The notification may be made by telephone, followed by a letter mailed on the same day as the telephone call is made. The notification must identify the student and explain the conduct that violated the code of conduct and constituted a crime.

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Disciplinary Penalties

Procedures and Referrals

Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time and place it occurs, and in a way that students view as fair and impartial. School personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the students’ ability to grow in self-discipline.

Disciplinary action, when necessary, will be firm, fair and consistent so as to be the most effective in changing student behavior. In determining the appropriate disciplinary action, school personnel authorized to impose disciplinary penalties will consider the following:

1. The student’s age.
2. The nature of the offense and the circumstances which led to the offense.
3. The student’s prior disciplinary record.
4. The effectiveness of other forms of discipline.
5. Information from parents, teachers and/or others, as appropriate.
6. Other extenuating circumstances.

As a general rule, discipline will be progressive. This means that a student’s first violation will usually merit a lighter penalty than subsequent violations.

If the conduct of a student is related to a disability or suspected disability, the student shall be referred to the Committee on Special Education when required by law, and discipline, if warranted, shall be administered consistent with the separate requirements of this Code of Conduct for disciplining students with a disability or presumed to have a disability. A student identified as having a disability shall not be disciplined for behavior related to his/her disability, except to the extent permitted by law.

Whenever penalties are being imposed, parents are to be notified. If the violation occurred against another student, the parents or legal guardians of the offended student must be notified of the offence against their children. Only one custodial parent or guardian in either circumstance need be notified by the school.

Detention

After school detention is held Tuesday and Thursday from 3:20 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Students must report on time and be prepared to work quietly. After school detention assignments take precedence over all job obligations. Cutting detention will result in further disciplinary consequences. Lunch detention is held Monday–Friday during a student’s regular lunch period. Students will eat lunch and engage in quiet work.

In School Suspension (ISS)

A student subjected to an in-school suspension is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to Education Law Section 3214. However, the student and the student’s parent will be provided with a reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with the district official imposing the in-school suspension to discuss the conduct and the penalty involved. Students assigned I.S.S. are restricted from classes and movement throughout the building during the school day, as well as all after school activities and sports for the duration of the suspension through 7:55 a.m. of the date of the student’s return to school. Students assigned I.S.S. should exit school no later than 3:20 p.m. while suspended. Failure to do so will be considered trespassing and result in criminal prosecution.

Out Of School Suspension (OSS)

When the superintendent or principal (referred to as the “suspending authority”) proposes to suspend a student charged with misconduct for five days of less pursuant to Education Law Section 3214(3), the suspending authority must immediately notify the student orally. If the student denies the misconduct, the suspending authority must provide an explanation of the basis for the proposed suspension. The suspending authority must also notify the student’s parents in writing that the student may be suspended from school. The written notice must be provided by personal delivery, express mail delivery, or some other means that is reasonably calculated to assure receipt of the notice within 24 hours of the decision to propose suspension at the last known address for the parents. Where possible, notice should also be provided by telephone if the school has been provided with a telephone number(s) for the purpose of contacting the parents. The offenses that a student could be suspended out-of-school for include, but are not limited to: Level 3 and 4 infractions, and repeated Level 2 infractions. In some circumstances, a parent conference may be required before the student returns to school. Students assigned O.S.S. are restricted from school and all school activities for the duration of the suspension, through 7:55 a.m. of the date of the student’s return to school. Students entering BKW school property while suspended from school will be considered trespassing and subject to criminal prosecution.

Suspension From Transportation

A student subjected to a suspension from transportation is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to Education Law Section 3214. However, the student and the student’s parent will be provided with a reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with the building principal or the principal’s designee to discuss the conduct and the penalty involved.

Suspension From Athletic Participation, Extra-Curricular Activities and Other Privileges

A student subjected to a suspension from athletic participation, extra-curricular activities or other privileges is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to Education Law Section 3214. However, the student and the student’s parent will be provided with a reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with the district official imposing the suspension to discuss the conduct and the penalty involved.

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Students with Disabilities

The Board recognizes that it may be necessary to suspend, remove or otherwise discipline students with disabilities to address disruptive or problem behavior. The Board is committed to ensuring that the procedures followed for suspending, removing or otherwise disciplining students with disabilities are consistent with the procedural safeguards required by applicable laws and regulations. This code of conduct affords students with disabilities subject to disciplinary action no greater or lesser rights than those expressly afforded by applicable federal and state law and regulations. Procedural safeguards are available in the Special Education Office.

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Harassment and Bullying

In order to facilitate implementation, provide meaningful guidance and prevent behaviors from rising to a violation of law, this policy will use and explain the term bullying (which is subsumed under the term “harassment”), which is understood to be a hostile activity which harms or induces fear through the threat of further aggression and/or creates terror. Bullying may be premeditated or a sudden activity. It may be subtle or easy to identify, done by one person or a group. Bullying often includes the following characteristics:

• Power imbalance – occurs when a bully uses his/her physical or social power over a target.
• Intent to harm – the bully seeks to inflict physical or emotional harm and/or takes pleasure in this activity.
• Threat of further aggression – the bully and the target believe the bullying will continue.
• Terror – when any bullying increases, it becomes a “systematic violence or harassment used to intimidate and maintain dominance.”

There are at least three kinds of bullying: verbal, physical and social/relational.

Verbal bullying

Verbal bullying includes name calling, insulting remarks, verbal teasing, frightening phone calls, violent threats, extortion, taunting, gossip, spreading rumors, racist slurs, threatening electronic communications (“cyber-bullying”), anonymous notes, etc.

Physical bullying

Physical bullying includes poking, slapping, hitting, tripping or causing a fall, choking, kicking, punching, biting, pinching, scratching, spitting, twisting arms or legs, damaging clothes and personal property, or threatening gestures.

Social or relational bullying

Social or relational bullying includes excluding someone from a group, isolating, shunning, spreading rumors or gossiping, arranging public humiliation, undermining relationships, teasing about clothing, looks, giving dirty looks, aggressive stares, etc.

In each building, the head administrator/designee is responsible for receiving oral or written complaints alleging violations of this policy.

Students may report complaints of bullying, harassment, or discrimination to any school district employee. All district employees who receive reports of bullying, harassment, or discrimination will file a written report. Bullying Reporting forms are available in the Main Office.

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Dignity For All Students Act

The Dignity for All Students Act (hereinafter referred to as the Dignity Act or DASA) is a comprehensive bill that focuses on prevention of harassment and discriminatory behaviors through the promotion of education measures meant to positively impact school culture and climate. Among other provisions, the Dignity Act requires all public school districts to update their codes of conduct to fully address all forms of harassment and discrimination against students attending New York public schools. By building on the 2000 Safe Schools Against Violence in Education (SAVE) Law which focuses primarily on guiding school districts on how to track and respond to school violence, the Dignity Act strengthens existing district policies protecting students and upholds New York’s commitment to safe and orderly schools.

The investigation of a reported act of bullying, harassment, or discrimination of a student, school employee, and all other individuals on BKW CSD property will be initiated upon report. The building administrator, designee, and/or investigative designee shall document all complaints in writing using the appropriate forms available in the Main Office, Guidance Office or school website. Read the Dignity for All Student frequently asked questions.

To the greatest extent possible, the administration will ensure that all complaints and the identities of all parties involved will be treated as confidential and in accordance with this policy.

Expectations

Students, faculty, staff, and all visitors to the BKW CSD are expected to conduct themselves in keeping with their levels of development, maturity, and demonstrated capabilities with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of others. All are to:

• Maintain a climate of mutual respect and dignity for all students regardless of actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (identity or expression), or sex, which will strengthen students’ self-concept and promote confidence to learn.
• Confront issues of discrimination and harassment or any situation that threatens the emotional or physical health or safety of any student, school employee or any person who is lawfully on school property or at a school function.
• Address personal biases that may prevent equal treatment of all students in the school or classroom setting.
• Report incidents of harassment and discrimination that are witnessed or otherwise brought to a teacher’s attention in a timely way.

Interventions

The Dignity Act calls for “remedial responses” to code of conduct violations. Remedial responses focus on correcting the reasons why harassment and discrimination occur; and are designed to correct the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of the behavior, and protect the target of the act. Appropriate remedial measures may include, but are not limited to:

• restitution and restoration;
• peer support groups; corrective instruction or other relevant learning or service experience;
• supportive intervention behavioral assessment or evaluation;
• behavioral management plans, with benchmarks that are closely monitored;
• student counseling; parent conferences; or student treatment through therapy.

Beyond these individual-focused remedial responses, school-wide or environmental remediation can be an important tool to prevent harassment and discrimination. Environmental remediation strategies may include, but are not limited to:

• supervisory systems which empower school staff with prevention and intervention tools to address incidents of bullying and harassment;
• adoption of research-based, systemic harassment prevention programs;
• modification of schedules;
• adjustment in hallway traffic and other student routes of travel;
• targeted use of monitors;
• staff professional development;
• parent conferences;
• involvement of parent-teacher organizations;
• peer support groups.disciplinary consequences

Retaliation

The Dignity Act specifically prohibits any form of retaliation against the victim, complainant, witnesses or others named in a DASA investigation or report. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment in connection with filing a complaint or assisting with an investigation under this policy. Retaliatory or intimidating conduct against any individual who has made a bullying complaint or any individual who has testified, assisted, or participates, in any manner in an investigation is specifically prohibited and in accordance with this policy shall be treated as another act of bullying, harassment, or discrimination and subject to disciplinary consequences.

Access the DASA Reporting Form (via Google Drive).

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Student Searches and Questioning

The board of education is committed to ensuring an atmosphere on school property and at school functions that is safe and orderly. To achieve this kind of environment, any school official authorized to impose a disciplinary penalty on a student may question a student about an alleged violation of law or the district code of conduct. Students are not entitled to any sort of “Miranda”-type warning before being questioned by school officials. School officials are not required to contact a student’s parent before questioning the student. However, school officials will tell all students why they are being questioned.

In addition, the board authorizes the superintendent, building principals, dean of students the school nurse and district security officials to conduct searches of students and their belongings if the authorized school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the search will result in evidence that the student violated the law or the district code of conduct. This includes students’ lockers, desks, book bags and other school storage spaces.

The building principal or the principal’s designee shall be responsible for the custody, control and disposition of any illegal or dangerous item taken from a student. The principal or his designee will be required to label items taken from students and personally deliver illegal or dangerous items taken from students to the police.

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Police Collaboration

District officials are committed to cooperating with police officials and other law enforcement authorities to maintain a safe school environment. Before police officials are permitted to question or search any student, the building principal or his or her designee shall first try to notify the student’s parent to give the parent the opportunity to be present during the police questioning or search. The principal or designee will also be present during any police questioning or search of a student on school property or at a school function. Students who are questioned by police officials on school property or at a school function will be afforded the same rights they have outside the school.

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Academic Ineligibility

At each five week reporting period and at the conclusion of each 10 week marking period, students failing two or more subjects will be placed on the academic ineligibility list. After these lists are published, faculty members may submit to the Principal or Associate Principal, at any time, the names of those students who have experienced a more recent decline in their academic performance to the point of failure. These students will be added to the next published list of academically ineligible students. Revised lists will be compiled and become effective on Monday of each week. Students who are ineligible are notified in writing by the Principal or Associate Principal as to the subjects they are failing which make them ineligible.

Upon completion of a 10 and 20 week course, students receiving a failing grade will be marked as an incomplete/failure. The presence of two or more negative comments, as well as, the “currently failing” comment, will place the student on the ineligibility list for the subsequent 5-week period. The student will then have the option to complete any necessary assignments/tests etc., required for a passing grade. Once the student has completed all necessary requirements, they may be removed from the ineligibility list, immediately, if otherwise eligible. If the student fails to complete these requirements by the end of the five-week period, the final grade will be recorded as a failure, but the student will no longer be penalized for that course failure.

Students desiring to be removed from academic ineligibility status must demonstrate to their teachers that they are performing satisfactorily. After the student and teacher have reached a verbal agreement that the student has returned to satisfactory academic standing in the particular class, the student must pick up a form from the Secondary School Office, have the teacher sign the form and return the form to the office. If the Principal so approves, the student may be removed from academic ineligibility immediately.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dignity Act (DASA)

Who is protected by the Dignity for All Students Act?

All public elementary and secondary school students are protected by the Dignity Act.

What does the Dignity Act prohibit?

The Dignity Act prohibits the harassment and discrimination of students by students and by school personnel.

How does the Dignity Act relate to bullying and hazing?

Bullying and hazing are forms of harassment and discrimination. The Dignity Act protects students against these forms of harassments.

What physical spaces are covered by the Dignity Act?

The Dignity Act applies to behavior on school property (including athletic fields, playgrounds, and parking lots), in school buildings, on a school bus/vehicle, as well as at school-sponsored events or activities.

How does the Dignity Act affect the school’s Code of Conduct?

Under the Dignity Act, the school district’s code of conduct must include age appropriate, plain language that prohibits discrimination and harassment against any student by employees or other students that creates a hostile environment.

What is considered a hostile environment?

A hostile environment may occur with or without physical contact and/or by verbal threats, intimidation or abuse. Does the conduct unreasonably and substantially interfere with a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional and/or physical well-being? Does the conduct reasonably cause a student to fear for his or her physical safety?

What is required of the school?

All students must be informed annually of the behavioral expectations in the code of conduct. Training for staff will be provided to raise their awareness and sensitivity to potential discrimination or harassment and how to prevent and respond to discrimination or harassment. Staff who know — or reasonably should know — of possible harassment must take immediate and appropriate action to investigate or otherwise determine what occurred. When harassment has occurred, staff must take prompt and effective steps to end it, eliminate any hostile environment and prevent it from recurring.

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Athletic Directors Information

Read the Athletics Code of Conduct.

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Code of Conduct, Participation and Authorization Form

Access the Code of Conduct, Participation and Authorization Form (via Google Drive).

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