junior-seniorhigh school handbook 2010-2011

8/3/2019 Junior-SeniorHigh School Handbook 2010-2011

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WELCOME

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians:

Welcome to the 2010-2011 school year for Windham Junior and Senior High School.

Time invested at Windham Junior and Senior High School can be a valuableeducational experience that provides skills, social development and opportunities forgrowth through academics, athletics, extra-curricular activities and interactions. Growth,coupled with desire and determination can enhance successful fulfillment of future goalsand opportunities.

It is our sincere desire each student is successful during their time with us. Ourcurriculum is continually expanding and improving. We encourage our students to take

advantage of the available opportunities. Additionally, acting in a respectful and

responsible way can provide a foundationfor success.

The Windham Board of Education has developed guidelines for violent, disruptive, or

inappropriate behavior by its students. A violation of any school rule or regulation might

result in disciplinary action including school detentions, restricted periods, in-school

suspension, out of school suspension, removal and/or expulsion from school, or court

action as outlined in the Student and/or Athletic Code of Conduct approved by the

Windham Board of Education.

This handbook, in addition to the student code of conduct, provides a basic guideline

of the school rules and regulations, and expectations for student behavior.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Academic and Social Behaviors 17Academic Awards 4After School Events 4

Alma Mater 3Arrival/Dismissal 4Attendance 5Bell Schedule 3Book Bags 7Bus Transportation Rules and Procedures 7Change of Information 9Code of Conduct 17Dance Regulations 9Disciplinary Actions 17Distribution of Materials 10Dress Code 10Due Process Rights 17

Eligibility 4Emergency Drills 11Field Trips 11Gangs 24Grading Policy 3Hall Passes 11Handbook Review and Approval 16Lunch 11Lockers 12Major Violations 20Medications 12National Honor Society/National Junior Honor Society 12Office and Teacher Aides 14Saturday School Program 13School Hours 14School Fight Song 3Search and Seizure 14Serious Violations 21Student Enrollment 14Student Parking 14Student Publications 15Student Records 15Study Hall 15Substance Abuse Policy 24Surveillance and Student Privacy 16Telephones 16Tobacco 24

Vending Machines 16Violations Not Listed 16Visitors in the Building 16Windham Police Youth Division 16Zero Tolerance 20

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WINDHAM HIGH SCHOOL FIGHT SONG

Cheer, cheer for our Windham HighProudly we claim our shouts to the skyWindhamites are loyal and boldTrue to our colors, black and goldOur Alma Maters best in the northFighting for victory we rally forthEver in our hearts repeatingVictory for Windham High

WINDHAM HIGH SCHOOL ALMA MATER

To Windham High our love we giveOur Alma Mater, dear

Well try in coming years to live

A life that is sincere.Windham High, then heres to you

To your colors well be trueAnd when were great with pride well state

Twas all because of you.

BELL SCHEDULE

1st period 7:40-8:232nd period 8:27-9:103rd period 9:14-9:57

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period 10:01-10:445th period 10:48-11:31 Lunch A6th period 11:35-12:18 Lunch B7th period 12:22-1:05 Lunch C8th period 1:09-1:529th period 1:56-2:39

WINDHAM JUNIOR AND SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLGRADING POLICY

GRADE PERCENTAGE QUALITY POINT SCALE

A 90 100 4.0B 80 - 89 3.0C 70 - 79 2.0

D 60 - 69 1.0F Below 60 0

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1. ACADEMIC AWARDS

An academic letter will be awarded to anystudent who earns a 3.2 grade point averageeach of the first three grading periods. After the

first year other appropriate awards will be givento students who achieve this distinction.

2. AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS

Students coming to the school for after schoolathletic practices, games or other events arerequired to wait in the assigned area.

3. ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL

Upon arrival students may wait on the sidewalk

area in front of the High School/Junior High,enter the building lobby, report to the cafeteriafor breakfast or go to the high school gym until7:35 a.m.

Students are not permitted to stand around orloiter in unsupervised areas such as parkinglots, bleachers, track area, street corners or anyother property so designated as schoolproperty.

After dismissal from school, students who walkhome are expected to directly leave school

grounds unless attending an immediate after-school activity.

Students who are being picked up by aparent/guardian may report to the gravel parkinglot for pick up.

Students who drive to school are expected toexit the parking lot in a safe and timely manner.Student drivers are not permitted to make aright-turn onto Bauer Avenue until the buseshave left to take students home.

4. ATHLETIC EXTRA-CURRICULARELIGIBILITY

Eligibility standards are established by the OhioHigh School Athletic Association and theWindham Exempted Village Board of Education.Eligibility for participation in extra-curricularorganizations/clubs shall follow guidelines setforth for athletics.

A. Grades 7-8: A student must becurrently enrolled in school and receivepassing grades in the immediatelypreceding grading period in 75% ofsubjects in which he/she is enrolled.

B. Grades 9-12: A student must becurrently enrolled in school and musthave received passing grades in aminimum of five (1) credit courses or theequivalent, in the immediately precedinggrading period. This includes incomingfreshmen students.

C. Absence on Day of Athletic Activity:

To attend or participate in any activitysuch as an athletic event, play,band/choir performance, dance, etc.,

sponsored by the school, students areto be in attendance on the day of theactivity. A day of attendance forparticipation in an extra-curricularactivity is designated by an arrival of nolater than 10:00 a.m.

D. In addition to the eligibility requirementsestablished by the Ohio High SchoolAthletic Association, students in grades7 12 must have attained a minimumgrade point average of 1.0 on theprevious grading period. Students may

participate in interscholastic activitiesthey received one failing grade for theprevious grading period. An athlete willbe ineligible when receiving two or morefailing grades. If a studentsindividualized education plan (IEP)indicates that an exemption from thisportion of the policy (GPA requirement)would be advisable, such eligibilityrequirements shall not be applicable tothat student, but the OHSAArequirement would still be in effect.

Students failing to meet the aboverequirements in any one grading periodwill not be permitted to participate in anyorganizational (club) activities as amember until the required level ofachievement is once again documented(next grading period). A student mayparticipate in practice with the approvalof the head coach, athletic director,principal and parent/guardian.

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5. ATTENDANCE

COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

A child between the age of 6 and 18 years is of

compulsory school age (ORC 3321.13) Thelaws of the state of Ohio (ORC 3321.04) requirethat every parent, guardian or adult havingcharge of any child between the age of 6 and 18must send such child to a public, private orparochial school for the full term that school is insession, unless excused by proper legalcertificate. Such attendance must begin on thefirst day of school.

Failure to send children to school (section3321.38 ORC): No parent, guardian or otherperson having care of a child of compulsoryschool age shall violate section

3321.01,3321.03,3321.94,3321.07,3321.30, or3321.14 of the revised code.

ATTENDANCE PHILOSOPHY

The staff and administration believe that regularattendance and academic success go hand inhand. Chronic absenteeism, truancy, andexcessive tardiness are often the cause ofacademic failure. Therefore, students areexpected to be present in all classes, study hallsor other assigned areas during the school day.

ABSENCES

Excused Absences: Ohio Law recognizes thefollowing as valid reasons for absences fromschool:

1. Personal illness

2. Death in the family

3. Religious holidays

4. Court appearances

5. Medical/dental appointments

6. Administrative approval

In order to maintain compliance with Statestandards, students are permitted no more thanfive (5) absences in one semester. Parent noteswill not be accepted beyond the 5-day limit. Allabsences beyond the 5-day limit will beunexcused unless they are accompanied by aphysicians note or a court document.

Unexcused absences are:

1. Any absence not excused by statelaw.

2. Days of at-home suspension.

3. Any absence for which a student failsto submit a written note the returningday.

Extended Medical Absences: Prolongedphysical illness under a physicians care of three(3) days or more must be verified on thephysicians stationery along with the physicianssignature. A student who may be suffering froma mental disability must be documented by asigned letter from a licensed physician, licensed

psychologist, and/or certified schoolpsychologist.

The letter from the physician and/or psychologistmust note the exact number of days underhis/her care and the exact number of days thestudent must stay home.

A. EXCESSIVE ABSENCE

The awarding of academic credit is directlyrelated to regular class attendance. Studentsfound to be truant from class may not be

permitted to make up missed assignments.Excessive absence in any one class may resultin loss of credit for the class.

When a student accumulates the number ofabsences as stated in the following policy in anyfrom school and/or one class, the followingguidelines and procedures have beenestablished.

School sponsored or sanctioned activities forwhich the student has been properly excused(field trips, athletic events, etc.) are exempt fromand will not pertain to this policy exclusive of

doctor or dentist appointments, required courtappearances, and verifiable emergencies asdetermined by the principal.

After (5) days absence in one semester,excused or unexcused, from one class orfull-day, OR, at any time for absence exceedingten percent of the days in session, theDesignated Attendance Officer will meet with the

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student, send a letter of concern, a copy ofattendance policy, and a copy of the studentsmost recent attendance report to the parents.Excuses written by a doctor may be required.

After 7 days absence in one semester, excusedor unexcused, from one class or full day, theDesignated Attendance Officer will attempt tocontact parents or legal guardian by phone, andwill send a letter requesting a face-to-facemeeting with parents and student to reviewattendance policy and potential consequences,students most recent attendance report anddevise a plan for improvement.

After 9 days absence in one semester, excusedor unexcused, from one class or full day, thestudent will meet with the Attendance Officerand Building Principal to review consequencesregarding potential for loss of academic credit.

An acknowledgement of consequences will besigned by all parties. Consequences mayinclude revocation of driving privileges. Thestudent may be given an option to voluntarilyattend Saturday School sessions to make up forone absence. Recommendation for loss ofcourse credit may be imposed after 9 daysabsence in one semester and/or 18 days in ayear-long course.

Administration reserves the authority todetermine the number of absences that may bemade up utilizing the Saturday School option.

Referral to Portage County Juvenile Court Diversion Services

Schools may refer a student to Juvenile Courtfor truancy as legally defined for being a habitualor chronic truant.

Habitual Truant defined as:

5 or more consecutive unexcused absences7 unexcused absences in one month12 unexcused absences in one school year

Chronic Truant defined as:

7 or more consecutive unexcused absences10 or more unexcused absences in one month15 or more unexcused absences in for the year

An informal meeting will be established by theCourt official who will invite the districtsrepresentative, parent and/or guardian, and

student to discuss appropriate and expectedattendance behaviors. Future consequenceswill also be discussed and documented.

Referral for Expulsion: After 20 consecutivedays, 4 consecutive weeks of unexcusedabsences or 20 cumulative unexcused absencesin one school year: The Principal may refer thestudent to the Superintendent of Schools forexpulsion.

Reporting Non-Attending Students to theOhio BMV:

In accordance with current Ohio law, WindhamSchool personnel are required to notify the StateBureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) of any studentunder the age of 18 who has withdrawn fromschool for any reason other than a change ofresidence. School authorities may also notify

BMV of students that are chronically orhabitually absent from school.

A written account of each step of this processshall be maintained by the Attendance Officer.

B. TARDY

Tardy to School: A student shall be consideredtardy to school, if he/she is not in his/herdesignated seat or room when the last tardy bellrings (7:40 a.m.). Students who arrive tardy toschool must report to the Office and sign in.

Students who fail to sign in may face disciplinaryaction.

The policy does not apply to tardiness due todoctor, dentist, or court excuse whendocumentation is provided. All other tardies arecounted regardless of excused or unexcused.

Tardy to Class: A student shall be consideredtardy to class if he/she is not in his/her seat atthe designated time (to be determined by theteacher.)

The following disciplinary procedures will beimplemented with tardies to each individualclass.

3rd Tardy hour detention5th Tardy One hour detention7th and up Further disciplinary

actions include but not limited to detention,detention +, ISR, ISS, Saturday Detention andOSS.

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This process is renewed at the beginning ofeach 9 week grading period.

Truancy: No student shall be truant fromschool or class. A student shall be consideredtruant from school or class when such anabsence is considered to be unauthorized.Make-up work will not be permitted.

Student attendance at extra-curricular activitiessuch as athletic contests, dances, concerts, andprograms is a privilege. The student must bepresent in school that day to attend an extra-curricular event that night as a spectator.

A student will be considered truant from schoolregardless of parental phone calls or notes,unless the student received prior permissionfrom the administration to attend prior to the

event. All students who are suspended orexpelled may not attend any extra-curricularevents during the time of the suspension orexpulsion.

Class Truancy: A student shall not miss aclass without proper authorization from schoolofficials. Violations will result in appropriatedisciplinary actions. Make-up work will not beprovided.

Half or All Day Truancy: Half-day truancy isdefined as four (4) periods. Violations may

result in suspension from school.

Attendance Related Items

Call-off Procedure: Parents are requested tocall the high school (330-326-3916) or the juniorhigh school (330-326-3490) between 7:15 a.m.and 8:00 a.m. to report a student absence. Ifthe student is absent and the parent does notcall, the school will verify absences by phone theday the absence occurs. A card may be senthome if no contact is made.

Make-up Work: The student will have one dayplus the number of days absent to make up allwork missed during an excused absence. It isthe responsibility of the student to find out whathe/she missed and make arrangements with theteachers in order to make up work missed. Astudent will receive a zero for work missedunless it has been made up. Days for thispurpose are defined as school days.

Appointments: Students are requested tomake all doctor/dentist appointments afterschool hours and/or on Saturday. Anyappointment unable to be made after schoolmust be verified by the students bringing anoffice visit slip upon their return to school.Failure to bring in proper documentation mayresult in an unexcused absence.

Students are expected to attend school beforeand after the appointment as only the time of theappointment and time of transportation will beexcused.

Injured or Ill Students: Students who areinjured or become ill while at school are requiredto go to the school office for help. Schoolpersonnel options include, but are not limited to;making contact with the parent, allowing the

student to sit in the school office, permitting thestudent to lie down in the clinic or calling forassistance from the school nurse, or releasing astudent to go home, Students may not use anelectronic device to call or text someone withoutprior permission of the office personnel.

6. BOOK BAGS

No book bags will be permitted to be carried andused during the school day. Those studentswho bring book bags to school must store themthroughout the day in their lockers. The school

reserves the right to search book bags at anytime.

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7. BUS TRANSPORTATION RULES ANDPROCEDURES

A. General: The safety of all those beingtransported to and from school orschool-sponsored events is a very

serious matter. The rules outlined in theStudent Code of Conduct apply to allstudents transported by buses. Thismay be over and above the rulespublished by the bus transportationdepartment.1. It shall be recognized by a

student, and by the parent, thatthe bus driver shall be in fullcharge of the bus at all times,and that the bus driver shall beresponsible for maintainingorder and discipline on his/hervehicle while the student is onthe bus and for that period whenthe student is within viewingdistance after dischargingstudents.

2. Pupils shall conduct themselveson the school bus as they wouldin the classroom except thatreasonable conversation ispermissible. Continueddisorderly conduct, persistentrefusal to submit to the authorityof the driver, shall be sufficient

reason for refusingtransportation services to anystudent.

B. Rules and Regulations for PupilTransportation1. No unauthorized person shall sit

in the drivers seat or operateany of the controls.

2. No one shall throw any object inor out of the bus.

3. No one shall cause any part of the body to project outside from

the bus window.4. No one shall eat or drink while

on the bus.5. No one shall interfere with the

drivers operation of the bus.6. No one shall cause damage to

any part of the bus.7. Noise shall be kept to a very

minimum at all times to ensuresafety.

8. Changing to other seats whilethe bus is moving is not allowed.

9. Students shall not refuse toobey reasonable requests fromthe bus driver. The bus driverhas the authority to enforce theabove regulations.

10. Students shall remain well backfrom the roadway while waitingthe arrival of the bus. Theyshould refrain from throwingobjects or horseplay while at thebus stop.

11. Students shall enter and exit thebus in an orderly fashion and godirectly to a seat (which couldbe assigned) and remain seateduntil the institution is reached.

12. Younger pupils should bepermitted to enter first.

13. Seats in the rear of the busshould be filled first.

14. The emergency door should beused for emergency only.(Failure to do so could result insuspension of service to thestudent.) Pupils shall not touchsafety equipment on the bus.

15. Pupils who cross the road at abus stop shall not do so untilthey receive a signal from thebus driver. When crossing aroad is necessary, it shall

always be done in front of thebus and far enough in front ofthe bus so that the driver mayadequately observe them. Thismeans that the child should beable to see the face of thedriver. The driver shall hold thebus with warning lights flashinguntil the crossing is completedand the pupil has boarded thebus and/or has crossed thestreet and is considered safe.

16. Students should check for traffic

before crossing the roadwayand must proceed straightacross the roadway,approximately ten feet in front ofthe bus.

17. When being picked up on theright side, students shouldremain at the designated areaten feet or more from the bus.Students should wait for the

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driver to make eye contact withthem before proceeding toboard the bus.

18. Students are to wait until thebus makes a complete stopbefore beginning to exit the bus.

19.Only the SuperintendentPrincipal, or designee mayauthorize the transportation of aschool-age visitor to the homeof a regular school buspassenger upon the parentalauthorization and the availabilityof space.

20. No student shall stand while theschool bus is in motion.

21. Students must remain seated,keeping aisles and exits clear.

22. Students must not put head or arms out of the bus windows.

23. Electronic communicationdevices and student camerasare not permitted to be usedduring transportation to andfrom home or school-sponsoredevent.

8. CHANGE OF INFORMATION

Please notify the office in writing of any changesof the following information. These records could

be vital in case of an emergency.1. Phone2. Address3. Marital status of parent /guardian4. Change of custody5. Denial of visitation or school records6. Alternate person to be called in anemergency.7. Method of transportation

9. DANCE REGULATIONS High School

The staff and administration recognize the

desire for social interaction between students aspart of extra curricular events, specificallystudent dances. While such events are held outof the normal school day, such events still fallunder school supervision and regulation. One ofthe purposes for supervision and regulation is toprovide guidelines for participant behavior,including the safety and enjoyment of allattendees.

The following is a list of guidelines for studentattendance and behavior at school sponsoredstudent dances:

1. Student dances shall be open to all

Windham High School and MaplewoodCareer Center students who haveWindham as their home school.

2. Grade level for attendance may beregulated by the sponsoring group, i.e.,prom, etc.

3. Tickets for any dance may be purchased bycurrently enrolled Windham High Schooland Maplewood Career Center studentsonly. Tickets may be sold at the door forcurrent students only at the discretion ofthe sponsoring group.

4. A student may elect to invite an out-of-district guest. The following guidelines willapply:

a. The guest must be verifiably enrolled inan area high school or high schoolbased career center program.

b. Tickets for guests must be purchasedin advance, no tickets may bepurchased at the door.

c. A Guest Request form must beobtained in advance and completedprior to purchasing the guests ticket.

d. The Guest Request form must becompleted by an administrator of theguests home school, must include allrequested information, and mustinclude a recent school photo of theguest. No faxes or phone authorizationwill be accepted.

e. Guests may not enter the dance withoutthe registering student.

f. The sponsoring organization withadministrative approval may limitparticipation to only Windham ExemptedVillage School students.

5. Behavior during school sponsored danceevents are covered under the guidelines

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outlined in the Student Handbook andappropriate social guidelines. Specifically:

a. Once the student has entered the dance,he/she must sign out to leave thepremises prior to the close of the event.Leave/re-enter privileges do not exist. Ifnecessary, an escort may be requestedto monitor a students travel to theparking lot to retrieve a missed itemfrom a vehicle.

b. If a Windham student brings an out-of-district guest, when the Windhamstudent leaves, the guest must leave aswell.

6. Attire shall be suitable for the dance asset forth by the sponsoring group. Hats,dew rags and bandanas are prohibitedby the school dress code and shall not

be permitted at dances.

Undergarments and undershirts shallnot be exposed. Shirts must remain onand buttoned.

7. Students are expected to keep personaldemonstrations of affection out of thedance.

8. Dancing shall be appropriate for theevent and setting, and shall not includesexually suggestive movements. Dance

sponsor, chaperones and administratorsreserve the right to request studentsadjust their behavior.

Students are expected to comply with allbehaviors outlined in the Student Handbook.

Any student and/or guest failing to comply withrequests for behavior adjustment may be askedto leave the dance immediately. There will beno return of ticket money paid.

10. DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL

The principal must give permission if astudent(s)/group wishes to distribute or postwritten material on school grounds/property.Material which is libelous, obscene, offensive, orwhich may interfere with the educational processis prohibited. Appropriate disciplinary action willbe taken in these cases.

11. DRESS GUIDELINES

Student dress shall be appropriate for theeducational activities of the school. Attire and/orappearance that are considered unsafe,unclean, immodest, vulgar and offensive will notbe permitted.

A. Beach and athletic wear, pajama andflannel pants, spandex/biker pants,see-through clothing or sleeveless T-shirts are not permitted. Attire such asskirts, pants, shirts and blouses thatexpose an excessive amount of skin orprivate areas of the body areprohibited. Blouse/shirt sleeves shallcover the top of the shoulder. Shirtsmust have a modest neckline, orbuttoned to a modest height.Garments must cover theshoulder/collar bone area and

undergarments at all times, and beclose to the base of the neck. Thehemline of shirts and tops must be longenough to cover the bottom of thewaistband on pants or skirts.

B. Clothing and accessories areprohibited that demonstrate or suggestracial, ethnic, sexual or religiousdisrespect. Writing across the buttocksarea of clothing is not permitted.Those that have objectionable logos,including references to drugs, alcohol,

tobacco, cigarettes, sex, race,derogatory comments, and/or pictures,gang identifiers, cult identifiers, andprofanity are prohibited. Alterations onclothing to identify with gangmembership are not acceptable.

C. Skin-tight garments are prohibited.Skin tight is defined as any garmentthat shows ones anatomy or undergarments in a detailed manner.Skirts, dresses and shorts must be noshorter than approximately three

inches above the knee, in good taste,appropriate for school and would beacceptable in a business environment.

D. Clothing and/or jewelry that would behazardous to a students health orsafety and/or disrupt the educationalprocess shall not be worn.

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E. No hats, hoods, bandanas, scarves,head apparel or sunglasses areallowed to be worn anywhere in theschool during the school day. Hatsmay be taken and discipline issued tothose who violate. Coats are not to beworn in school and should be stored inthe locker during the school day.(Exceptions will be granted only by theadministration).

F. Game day jerseys are permitted withsleeves or with under or over garmentsthat have sleeves.

G. Extremely loose fitting clothing:Trousers/slacks/jeans may not be wornbelow the hip or have the appearanceof the sag look.

H. Appropriate footwear must be on at alltimes.

I. Application of colognes, scentedlotions/creams is prohibited during theschool day. Application of make-upshall be restricted to the restroom area.

J. In special programs and athletic teams,the coordinators of such programs andcoaches of the teams shall have theauthority to regulate student dress andgrooming.

K. Attire at public performances isexpected to follow approved guidelines.

All situations not covered in the above list shallrest in the hands of the administration andfaculty. Students failing to comply with theabove regulations will be asked to change theirclothing. If suitable clothing is unavailable,students may be placed in the office and/or ISRroom until a parent can bring a change ofclothing.

Time spent in the office or ISR for dress codeviolation may result in a grade of zero (0) forany class work missed because of this offense.

Noncompliance or repeated violations mayresult in additional disciplinary action.

12. EMERGENCY DRILLS

A. Fire Drills: Fire drills are periodicallyheld in accordance with state law.During these drills students are to walkrapidly and silently to the appropriateexits, proceeding to designated areasaway from the building.

Teachers will see that windows anddoors are closed and that all lights areout. Students are not to handle any fireequipment. Students disturbing ortampering with any fire equipment willface appropriate disciplinary action.

B. Tornado Drills: Tornado drills will becalled periodically. Students are tomove silently to the designated hallwaysor areas of safety as directed.

C. School Safety Drills: School safetydrills must be conducted annually.Additional drills will be announced asneeded. Students are expected tofollow directives given by the schoolemployee in their immediate vicinity.

13. FIELD TRIPS

The staff and administration of Windham HighSchool and Junior High recognize the use of off-campus visits/events as an educationally soundsupplement to the regular curriculum. However,when a students academic, attendance ordisciplinary record are less than satisfactory asdetermined by building administration, he/shemay be prohibited from leaving the building toattend a non-essential event.

Academics, attendance and discipline will bereviewed and permission shall be at the finaldiscretion of the building administrator

14. HALL PASSES

During class no one is to be in the halls withouta pass. It is both the teachers responsibility to

write or issue necessary passes and thestudents responsibility to request one. Passesmust contain name of student, date, destination,time and teachers signature. All passes shallbe individually written. No objects such as apiece of wood or plastic hall pass are permitted.

Hall passes are a privilege, not a right. Abuse ofa hall pass may result in loss of hall privileges.

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15. LUNCH

The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital partof the health program of the school. Toencourage good nutrition, a well-balanced lunchis offered at a reasonable price. Breakfast andlunch periods are closed. Food deliveries toschool will not be accepted.

All students are to eat their lunch in the cafeteriaand are to report promptly as scheduled.Students will remain in the cafeteria duringlunch.

While eating or socializing in the cafeteria,

students are expected to:1. Observe good dining room

standards: sitting at the tables,conversing quietly with others, etc.

2. Refrain from unacceptablebehaviors such as cutting in line,throwing food or acting in aboisterous manner.

3. Leave the table and surroundingarea clean and orderly, putting trashin the proper containers.

FOOD/BEVERAGE PROHIBITED OUTSIDE

THE CAFETERIAFood and beverage, unless packed as a lunch,are prohibited in the halls. Prior to entering thebuilding, students are to appropriately dispose ofopened beverage containers. Lunches are to bekept in the students hall locker. No food orbeverage is to be taken into labs or classrooms,or eaten anywhere other than in the cafeteria ordesignated eating area.

Free/Reduced Lunch ProgramThe Board of Education recognizes the

importance of good nutrition to each studentseducational performance. Free or reducedlunches/breakfasts are available to students whoqualify under federal program guidelines.Applications can be obtained from school offices

16. LOCKERS

Students must use their assigned locker and areencouraged to use a lock in order to preventproperty loss. The school is not responsible forany losses that may occur; however, report alllosses to the administration immediately.

Gym lockers are provided as a convenience forstudents. No money or other valuable itemsshould be left in a gym locker. These itemsshould be given to the physical educationteacher.

Lockers remain the property of the school andare loaned to students for proper use. Schoolofficials reserve the right to examine a studentslocker and its contents at any time. Any articlesfound in violation of the Student Code ofConduct (weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco,explosives, etc.) will result in disciplinary actions,including notification of the proper police

authorities.

17. MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL

Prescription/Non-prescription Drugs: Nostudent is allowed to carry, consume, or provideany type of prescription or over-the-countermedication for himself/herself or anotherstudent.

Students requiring medication during schoolhours must complete a medication form. Thisform must be completed by the physician and

the parent with instructions for administering themedication and must be submitted to the office.Students will take said medication at specifichours under the supervision of office personnel.

18. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY / NATIONALJUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY

Candidates for Windham High School shall becurrently enrolled in grades 10 12.

Candidates for Windham Junior High Schoolshall be currently enrolled in grades 7 and 8.

Selection Process:

A. Student G.P.A.s are calculated andapplications are given out. Thecumulative G.P.A. standard forWindham National Honor Society andNational Junior Honor Societyconsideration is 3.5 for all newinductees.

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B. Teachers are given a list of applicants and asked to vote on a 1-4scale regarding the students qualities ofleadership, service and character.

C. Candidates scores from teachersare totaled and divided by the number ofrespondents to get an average score.The average score is placed on a scoresheet under Teachers Rating to beused in the faculty councils selectionprocess.

D. Applications are read to the facultycouncil and each member scores thecandidates on a 1 4 scale on service,character and leadership. Scores fromfaculty council members are averagedfor a faculty score in each category.

E. Each candidates Faculty rating,leadership, service and characteraverages are totaled. Based on a 20point scale, those candidates averaging17 points or an 85% are selected forinduction into National Honor Society orNational Junior Honor Society asdictated by current grade level.

F. Membership in the WindhamNational Junior Honor Society does notguarantee application to or membership

in the Windham National Honor Society.

19. OFFICE AND TEACHER AIDES

Students may be assigned as Office or TeacherAides within their respective buildings during thetime they have been assigned to a study hall.Student aides are required to do the following:

A. Be on time to class or office forwhich they are assigned. Attendance ofoffice or teacher aides will be taken

each period.

B. Students wishing to be office orteacher aides will need to have theirschedules officially changed by theGuidance Office.

C. Aides can only be away from theirassigned area if they have an officialreason to be out of their area.

D. Aides must wear their aide badgealways when away from assigned area.

E. Student aides who abuse theirposition will be removed from their joband returned to study hall.

F. Grades and attendance will be usedas a determining factor in considering astudent for an aide position.

20. SATURDAY SCHOOL

The Windham Junior/Senior High SchoolSaturday School Attendance Program providesadditional opportunities for students todemonstrate their academic capabilities in aclassroom setting while offering students the

chance to improve their attendance status. Theprogram is held periodically throughout the yearand is staffed by certified staff members of theWindham Exempted Village Schools.

Students electing to participate in the SaturdaySchool Program may reduce the daysconsidered absent from school, excused orunexcused, in regards to the 9 days persemester or 18 days per year portion of theattendance policy. Attendance at one SaturdaySchool day equals one day absent. No morethan 2 days of attendance credit can be earned

in any semester. Days can not be appliedtoward any semester and/or grading period thathas already been completed.

Participation in this program does not changethe number of days reported absent to EMIS orfor official school record keeping. This programis intended only to offer modifications in regardsto the 9/18 rule.

Saturday School may also be assigned forviolation of the Student Code of Conduct.

ATTENDANCEAND LOCATION

Saturday School is held in Room 132 inthe High School wing.

Saturday School is held from 8:00 a.m.to 12:00 p.m.

Students are responsible for their owntransportation to and from the Program.

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Entrance to building will be through thefront entrance by the library.

RULESFOR SATURDAY SCHOOL

Cell phones are not permitted. Pagers, CD players, and other personal

electronic devices are not permitted.Calculators without games are permittedfor academic use only.

Limited bathroom privileges are allowedat the discretion of the monitors.

There will be a ten-minutestretch/restroom break at 10:00 a.m.

No food is allowed. Water is allowedonly in clear bottles.

Students must bring schoolwork toSaturday School.

Talking, sleeping, or appearing to sleep,is prohibited.

Students who are asked to leave due tonon-compliance or are not in attendancefor a full session will not receive credittoward attendance modifications.

21. SCHOOL HOURS

The doors to the school building will open at7:10 a.m. Students are not permitted in thebuilding before this time, except through writtenpermission. Students in the building between

7:10 a.m. and 7:35 a.m. must be in the cafeteriaor seated in the first row of the bleachers in thehigh school gym. (High School students onhome side, Junior High students on visitorsside)

A five minute warning bell will ring at 7:35 a.m.and 1st period will begin at 7:40a.m. School is insession from 7:40 a.m. until 2:39 p.m.1st period 7:40-8:232nd period 8:27-9:103rd period 9:14-9:574th period 10:01-10:445th period 10:48-11:31 Lunch A

6th

period 11:35-12:18 Lunch B7th period 12:22-1:05 Lunch C8th period 1:09-1:529th period 1:56-2:39

22. SEARCH AND SEIZURE

To maintain order in the school and to protectthe safety of students and school personnel,school authorities may search students, school

lockers, locker contents, and/or automobilesdriven to school by students and may seize anyillegal, unauthorized, unsafe, or contrabandmaterials discovered in the search. Searchesmay occur as a result of reasonable suspicion ora function of a random search.

As used in this policy, the term unauthorizedmeans any item dangerous to the health orsafety of students or school personnel;disruptive of any lawful function, mission, orprocess of the school; or described asunauthorized in the school rules.

Lockers and other such property carry noexpectation of privacy for the students whooccupy them. School lockers, desks, cabinets,etc. and their contents are subject to search byschool authorities at any time and withoutwarning.

Failure to permit searches and seizures asprovided in this policy will be consideredinsubordinate behavior.

Personal Searches: A students person and/orpersonal belongings (e.g., purse, book bag, etc.)may be searched whenever a school authorityhas reasonable suspicion to believe that thestudent is in possession of illegal, unauthorized,or unsafe materials.

Video Recorders, Data Storage and

Electronic Communication Devices: Thesedevices may be searched by school officials ifreasonable suspicion exists that may have beenused in an activity prohibited by the StudentCode of Conduct.

23. STUDENT ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES

In order to enroll a student, the parent/guardianshall provide the school with;

1. a copy of the childs birth certificate

2. social security card

3. proof of residence4. custody papers (if applicable)

5. immunization records

Upon receipt of proper documentation schoolofficials will contact the previous school districtand request the students official records. If theprevious school indicates no record of the

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student, or after a 14-day waiting period norecords are received, school officials shall notifythe Windham Police Department or the lawenforcement agency concerning the possibilitythat the student may be a missing child, as theterm is defined in Section 2901.20 of the OhioRevised Code.

24. STUDENT PARKING

Parking permits are required for studentswishing to park in the school parking lot. Permitapplications are available in the High Schooloffice. Permit applications are accepted on afirst-come, first-served basis and must beaccompanied by a $5.00 non-refundable fee peryear.

Students are only permitted to park in the pavedschool parking lot behind the High School.Students must be parked in their designatedstudent parking space with their permitdisplayed.

Under no circumstances are students permittedto be in the parking lot or at the cars parked inthe lot during the hours of the school day unlessthey have an approved early dismissal.

The parking lot is considered school groundsand all policies in the Code of Conduct apply.Cars may be searched in the same manner aslockers. Any article found in violation of theStudent Code of Conduct (tobacco products,weapons, drugs, alcohol, explosives, etc.) willresult in disciplinary action including notificationof the appropriate authorities.

25. STUDENT PUBLICATIONS

Publications, such as the student newspaperand yearbook are connected to the overallschool program and subject to editorial controlby school officials.

26. STUDENT RECORDS

There are two basic kinds of records directoryinformation and confidential records.

Directory information will be made availableupon a legitimate request unless aparent/guardian or student 18 years or older

notifies the school in writing by September 15 ofeach school year that (s)he will not permitdistribution of said information. Under Ohio law,directory information includes the following:Students name, address, telephone listing, dateand place of birth, major field of study,participation in officially recognized activities andsports, weight and height of members of athleticteams, dates of attendance, date of graduationand awards received.

Confidential records contain educational andbehavioral information that has restricted accessbased on the Family Education Rights andPrivacy Act (FERPA) and Ohio law. Thisinformation can only be released with the writtenconsent of the parents, the adult student, or asurrogate.

The only exception to this is to comply with State

and Federal laws that may require releasewithout consent.

Included in the confidential records may be testscores, psychological reports, behavioral data,disciplinary actions and communications with thefamily and outside service providers. TheSchool must have the parents written consent toobtain records from an outside professional oragency. Confidential information that is in astudents record that originates from an outsideprofessional or agency may be released to theparent through the originator and parents should

keep copies of such records for their home file.Parents may also provide the School with copiesof records made by non-school professionalagencies or individuals.Information on former students falls intodirectory and confidential information categoriesand will be made available on the same basis asenrolled students.

Students and parents have the right to review alleducational records generated by the schooldistrict, request amendment to these records,insert an addendum to records, and obtain

copies of such records. Copying costs may becharged to the requester. If a review of recordsis wanted, please contact the Guidance Office,in writing, stating the records desired. Therecords will be collected and an appointment willbe made with the appropriate persons present toanswer any questions there may be.

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27. STUDY HALL

To provide all students the opportunity foracademic success the following procedures arein effect for all Study Hall periods:

A. Students must bring something to study.B. Permission to talk or work together must

be obtained from the teacher in charge.C. Playing cards, computer games, games,

radios, etc. are not permitted.D. If a student is needed by another

teacher, the student must present apass at the start of the class requestinghim/her.

Study Hall teachers may issue passes to theoffice or library only.

28. SURVEILLANCE AND STUDENTPRIVACY

The Windham Board of Education authorizesand utilizes surveillance equipment in schoolbuildings, on school grounds and school busses.The use of such equipment has been shown toreduce acts of violence and destruction ofproperty.

If a tape shows evidence of a student violatingthe Student Code of Conduct, that tape may beused in a disciplinary action against the student.Tapes that show individuals other than the onein question may be viewed by school districtpersonnel only. Law enforcement and legalofficials may view the tape at the discretion ofthe Superintendent of Schools.

29. TELEPHONES

School telephones are not to be used for

personal calls unless an emergency arises andis deemed as such by school personnel. TheBuilding Office Staff will initiate all calls on behalfof a student seeking permission to leave school.

30. VENDING MACHINES

A. Hallway vending machines are availablefor before and after school use only.

B. Cafeteria vending machines areavailable during meal times. Productspurchased and opened, must beconsumed prior to leaving the cafeteria.

C. Students are strictly prohibited fromentering the Staff Dining Area to usevending machines.

31. VISITORS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY

No one other than students, teachers andemployees of the Windham Exempted Village

are permitted in the school building without firstsigning in and securing a visitors pass from theSuperintendents office.

Visitors of students are prohibited and will not bepermitted to attend classes or visit during theschool day.

32. WINDHAM POLICE YOUTH DIVISION

The Windham Police Department may have anofficer stationed in the high school each day to

aid in the directing of students in the hallwaysand at lunch. This officer will work directly withthe school attendance officers and principals ofthe high school and junior high school tostrengthen attendance and limit the studentstardiness to school.

VIOLATIONS NOT LISTED HEREIN:

The administration reserves the right to establishrules and procedures in areas where precedenthas not been set.

An outline of disciplinary actions is included as apart of this handbook. This should be consideredas a guide only, in that district administratorshold discretion over the assignment andimplementation of any and all disciplinary action.

HANDBOOK REVIEW AND APPROVAL

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The provisions of this handbook are reviewedannually. This handbook has been approved bythe Windham Board of Education for use byWindham High School and Windham JuniorHigh School students, staff and administration.CODE OF CONDUCT

Purpose: The staff and administration ofWindham Junior and Senior High Schoolsconsider the development of social skills,fostering respect for all people, developing anunderstanding for diverse viewpoints, andproviding a safe, friendly, and productivelearning environment as a part of its basiceducational mission.

Rights and Responsibilities: The exercise ofself-control, self-discipline, and self-direction areessential to a positive school behavior andsuccess in the future. The school has an

obligation to observe and respect the rights ofindividual students and the student body as awhole. Cooperation and the observation of therights of others are essential. To this end, eachpupil must be responsible for his/her behaviorand must respect the rights of others.

Attendance at and participation in extra-curricular activities considered a privilege, not aright. Administrators and school officials whosupervise pupil activities may prohibit a studentfrom participating in that activity without theprocedures for a full suspension or expulsion.

Such activities may include commencementexercises, class trips, and prom.

Disciplinary action for out-of-school misconductmay be imposed for conduct which is connectedwith school activities or which is directed atschool officials or employees, or the property ofsuch official or employee regardless of where itoccurs.

Any act of misconduct which has the school asits point of origin or is connected to activities orincidents that have occurred on property owned

or controlled by the district, may be subject todisciplinary action by school authorities and mybe reported to the appropriate law enforcementagency.

Expected Behaviors: Each student shall beexpected to:

A. Abide by national, state, and local lawsas well as the rules of the school

B. Respect the civil rights of othersC. Act courteously to adults and fellow

studentsD. Be prompt to school and attentive in

classE. Work cooperatively with others when

involved in accomplishing a commongoal regardless of the others ability,gender, race or ethnic background

F. Complete assigned tasks on time andas directed

G. Help maintain a school environmentthat is safe, friendly and productive

H. Act at all times in a manner that reflectspride in school, self and family. Thisincludes any event outside of thenormal school day that schoolpersonnel have a responsibility forsuch as dances, field trips and athleticevents.

I. Converse in an appropriate manner incontent and volume for young ladiesand gentlemen

J. Use care in all facilities and with allbooks, equipment and apparatus.

Students have a right to reasonable treatmentfrom the school and its employees. The schoolhas a right to make rules and regulations. Theintent of these rules and regulations is to createa positive educational environment that holdsstudents accountable for their behavior andteaches them to live with the consequences of

their decisions.

In compliance with state law contained in OhioRevised Code 3313.661, the Windham Board ofEducation has adopted the following Code ofConduct providing guidelines and regulations forstudent conduct. The rules and standards setforth in the code shall be applicable both duringregularly scheduled school hours, as well as atsuch other times and places, including, but notnecessarily limited to field trips, athletic events,and school sponsored functions. Any other acts,which detract from the school day, destroy

order, lower the morals of the student body, orinfringe on the rights of others will be handledaccordingly.

Disciplinary Actions: Violation of the Code ofConduct may result in verbal or written warningor reprimand, referral to guidance counselor,parental contact or conference, detention, in-school suspension, in-school restriction, postschool restriction, community service,

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emergency removal, referral to law enforcementagencies, suspension or expulsion.

Due Process Rights: Before a student may besuspended out-of-school, expelled, orpermanently excluded from school, there arespecific procedures that must be followed.Students being considered for suspension,expulsion, or permanent exclusion are entitled toan informal hearing with the buildingadministrator prior to removal at which time thestudent will be notified of the charges and givenan opportunity to explain his/her position withrespect to the offense at hand.

Students are apprised of their due-processrights when as out-of-school suspension is beingconsidered. The parent/guardian of a studentwho is being assigned an out-of-school

suspension has the right to appeal thedisciplinary action to the Superintendent ofSchools. The appeal must be made in writingwithin 10 days of the first day of suspension, andmust explain the reason for the appeal.

Expulsion: If a student is suspended four (4)times during the school year for violations of theStudent Code of Conduct, the principal mayrecommend to the Superintendent of Schoolsthat the student be expelled from schoolaccording to the provisions of the law. If astudent accumulates four (4) suspensions and is

expelled during the first semester, the principalmay recommend expulsion following the firstsuspension during the second semester.Students under expulsion are not permitted onschool property or permitted to attend anyschool related function on school property or anyevent where Windham students areparticipating. The Superintendent may expel astudent from school for up to eighty (80) daysand in some cases for the entire year.Expulsion may result in the loss of credit forcourses being taken at school or the MaplewoodCareer Center, or at any college or university

whether under the Post Secondary EnrollmentOption or at the students own expense. Ohiolaw requires that withdrawal from school doesnot prevent the expulsion process from movingforward.

Parents/Guardians may appeal an expulsiondecision to the Board of Education in writingwithin ten days of the Superintendents decision.

The administration of Windham Schools willhonor any suspension or expulsion from anyother Ohio district which has not expired. Out-of-state districts expulsions will be similarlyhonored.

Out-of-School Suspension: An out-of-schoolsuspension may be assigned to students whoviolate the student code of conduct, or schoolrules depending on the type and seriousness ofthe offense. Students will not attend any school-related activities while under suspension. Thebuilding principal or administrative teacher onspecial assignment may suspend a student fromschool for up to ten (10) days for any violation ofthe Code of Conduct.

When a student is assigned an at-homesuspension, these rules and regulations are ineffect:

1. Student will not attend school or anyschool related activities.

2. Student is not permitted on anyschool district property; thoseviolating this rule are subject totrespassing charges being filed withthe local police.

3. Student should not be in the vicinityof school grounds. If this occurs,the police will be called. Parentsare encouraged to keep students athome while suspended.

4. Suspension shall commence atmidnight of the first day of assignment and end at midnight ofthe last day of assignment unlessotherwise instructed byadministrative personnel. Insituations where continuedpresence of the offending studentmay cause a disruption in thebuilding, he/she may be emergencyremoved from all school activitiesimmediately prior to the suspension.

5. All homework, quizzes, and tests

missed during the suspension willreceive a zero (0). Assignmentscan be provided only to allowstudents to keep up-to-date.

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IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION

A. TIME: ISS will be conducted on an as

needed basis.

B. ASSIGNMENTS: Students will receivewritten assignments to be completed whileattending In-School Suspension. Studentsare expected to bring writing utensils.Students who come unprepared or refuse todo the proper work will be removed andreceive an out-of-school suspension.

C. FAILURE TO COMPLY: Failure to complywith the rules will cause a student to beremoved from In-School Suspension and

could lead to further disciplinary actions. .

In-School Restriction (ISR):

A. TIME: ISR will be conducted on an asneeded basis.

B. ASSIGNMENTS: Students will receivewritten assignments to be completedwhile attending In-School Restriction.

C. FAILURE TO COMPLY: Failure to

comply with the rules will cause astudent to be removed from In-SchoolRestriction and could lead to furtherdisciplinary actions.

Students can be assigned in-school restrictionduring their lunch period.

Detention PlusA. TIME: Detention Plus will be assigned

on an as needed basis and will continuethrough after-school detention.

B. ASSIGNMENTS: Students will receivewritten assignments to be completedwhile attending Detention Plus.

C. FAILURE TO COMPLY: Failure tocomply with the rules will cause astudent to be removed from Detention

Plus and could lead to furtherdisciplinary actions.

The student or his/her parents are responsiblefor transportation from a Detention Plusassignment.

ISR / Detention Plus - ExpectationsThe following rules shall apply to both In-SchoolRestriction and Detention Plus.

1. To receive their food for lunch, the student willeither be escorted to the cafeteria or their traywill be delivered.

2. Students are required to have classassignments.

3. Students are not to communicate with each

other unless given special permission to do so.

4. Students are to remain in their designatedseats at all times unless permission is granted todo otherwise.

5. Students shall not be allowed to sleep.

6. No radios, cards, magazines, or otherrecreational articles shall be allowed in theroom.

7. No food or beverages unless it is during

lunch.

DETENTIONS

A. School Detentions: School Detentionsare served after school on designateddays. School detentions may be 30minutes or 60 minutes. Schooldetentions begin at 2:45 p.m. Failure toserve a school detention will result inDetention Plus or an In-school-suspension school assignment.Students will be given a minimum of a

24-hour notice to serve an assigneddetention. This notice will detail thetime, date, and place for the detentionas well as the infraction for which thedetention has been issued.

B. Teacher Detentions: Teachers mayassign detentions for classroom andschool misbehavior. These may be

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assigned for any day and can last up toone hour in length. Students assignedto teacher detentions will be given aminimum of a 24-hour notice. Thisnotice will detail the time, date, andplace for detention, as well as theinfraction for which the detention hasbeen issued. Failure to attend a teacherdetention may result in a referral to theprincipal and school detention will beissued.

CLASSROOM EMERGENCY REMOVALA student may be removed from a class by ateacher or by an administrator. Removal will bebased upon a student posing a threat to personsor property or to the disruption of the academicprocess. The removal may be for one day.

SCHOOL EMERGENCY REMOVAL

A student may be removed from school incircumstances where the students presenceposes continuing danger to persons or propertyor an ongoing threat of disrupting the academicprocess. The removal may be for one day withno notice or hearing procedure required.

If either suspension or expulsion iscontemplated, the student will be afforded ahearing within three school days after removaltogether with written notice of the reasons forremoval as soon as possible prior to the hearing.

1. ZERO TOLERANCE

The Board of Education has a zero tolerance forviolent, disruptive or inappropriate behavior byits students, including weapons possession oruse: i.e., the Board will not tolerate violent,disruptive or inappropriate behavior by itsstudents including behaviors defined asharassment, intimidation or bullying. and suchbehavior is prohibited as set forth in this StudentCode of Conduct. The Board also has a zerotolerance for excessive truancy, as well as thepossession, use or distribution of drugs or

alcohol on school property.

Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying:Any intentional written, verbal or physicalcontact that a student has exhibited towardanother particular student more than once andthe behavior both:

1. Causes mental or physical harm to the otherstudent.

2. Is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasivethat it creates an intimidating, threatening, orabusive educational environment for the otherstudent.

2. MAJOR VIOLATIONS

Students who have violated rules in this sectionare subject to any disciplinary action includingbeing suspended out of school from one (1) toten (10) school days and the principal mayrecommend the student for expulsion. Theschool may refer these cases to the proper legalauthorities.

A. Dangerous Weapons: A student shallnot use, threaten to use, have on his/herperson, have easy access to, transmit or

conceal, (on person, locker, car, etc.)any object or weapon such as a knife,chain, club, firearm, mace, tear gas,pepper spray, stun gun, laser pointer,(not to be a complete list) that could beconsidered a dangerous weaponcapable of inflicting bodily injury ordisrupting the educational process.

B. Destruction and/or Defacement ofSchool Property: A student shall notattempt to damage at any time anyproperty owned or leased by the

Windham Board of Education.Restitution and/or repair will be made bythe offending student.

C. Disruption of School Day: A studentshall not set off false alarms, call in falsebomb threats, or other hazards. Peppergas, mace, stink bombs and othersimilar substances are regarded asdisruptive devices. Students whodisplay and/or set off those substancesin school or at any school function maybe subject to disciplinary action. (Not

intended to be a complete list.) Theschool will notify the proper legalauthorities.

D. Fireworks and Explosives: A studentshall not have on his/her person, haveaccess to, transmit, conceal, use orthreaten use of fireworks, smokebombs, stink bombs, explosives,incendiary materials, or other such

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devices capable of inflicting bodily injuryor disrupting the educational process.

E. Gender/Ethnic/Religious/DisabilityHarassment:

Any speech or action that creates ahostile, intimidating or offensive learningenvironment and that such speech maytake the form of speech which isinappropriate because of its subjectmatter gender, sexual, ethnic,religious and disability.

Verbal: Written or oral innuendoes,comments, jokes, insults, threats, ordisparaging remarks concerning apersons gender, national origin,religious beliefs, etc. toward a fellowstudent, staff member, or other person

associated with the District.

Conducting a campaign of silencetoward a fellow student, staff member,or other person associated with theDistrict by refusing to have any form ofsocial interaction with the person.

Nonverbal: Placing objects, pictures,or graphic commentaries in the schoolenvironment or making insulting orthreatening gestures toward a fellowstudent, staff member or other person

associated with the District.

Physical: Any intimidating ordisparaging action such as hitting,hissing, or spitting on a fellow student,staff member or other person associatedwith the district.

F. Physical Altercation: Students shallnot engage in or provoke physicalcontact for the express purpose ofinflicting harm on another person.Words can constitute provocation. This

refers to threatening another student. Astudent shall not encourage, provoke orcontribute to a physical altercation.Retaliation is not considered self-defense.

G. Sexual Conduct: A student shall notexhibit any conduct or portray anyconduct, which might be considered tobe a sex act.

H. Sexual Harassment: A student shallnot interfere with or annoy, accost orharass sexually another student orindividual. Any unwanted sexualadvances, which may be verbal, visual,written, or physical contact, areconsidered forms of sexual harassment.

I. Unauthorized Entry: A student shallnot enter a school building or otherboard of education owned or leasedfacility that has been locked andsecured from student and public usewithout administrative consent.

J. Unauthorized Lighting of Matches orStarting a Fire: A student who lightsmatches or lighters without permission orstarts fires of any type on property owned,leased, or used by the Windham Board ofEducation poses a threat to the lives of allindividuals on the school grounds. Anystudent who does this is responsible forrestitution and/or repair of all damagesincurred. Restitution must be made directlyto the treasurer of the schools.

3. SERIOUS VIOLATIONS

Any student who violates a rule in this sectionare subject to any disciplinary action includingbeing suspended from school for (1) one to (10)

ten school days. A letter recommendingexpulsion may be sent to the superintendent ofschools. The school may refer these cases tothe proper legal authorities.

A. Acceptable Use Policy: A studentshall observe all provisions of theAcceptable Use Policy for Technologyuses. All students are required tocomplete an Acceptable Use Policy formthat must be signed by the student andparent/guardian before technology useprivileges are granted.

B. Aiding or Abetting Violation ofSchool Rules: If a student assistsanother student in violating any schoolrule he/she will be disciplined. Studentsare expected to resist peer pressure andexercise sound decision-makingregarding their behavior.

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C. Bullying or Cyber-bullying/abuse.Students shall not engage in anybullying or abusive behavior including,but not limited to: taunting, threatening,stalking, intimidation, and/or coercing byone or more individuals against otherstudents or staff, perpetrated in person,through others, on paper, withcomputers, cellular phones, internetwebsites, and/or any other electronicdevice.

D. Demonstration and Dissent:Student(s) shall not engage in anyaction(s) which in any way causesdisruption of the educational process orinfringes on individual rights by overt orcovert action(s). The proper authoritieswill be notified.

E. Dishonesty/Forgery: A student shallnot falsify documents and/or reportsprovided to school personnel.

F. Disrespect: A student shall notintimidate, insult, verbally abuse orabuse in writing, any employee of theboard of education, visitor(s) orstudent(s) in school sponsored events.

G. Disruptive Behavior: A student shallnot engage in any disruptive behaviorsuch as, but not limited to, unusual

dress or appearance, disruption inclassroom, hallways, cafeteria,homeroom, etc., and/or at any schoolrelated activity. This includescontinuously making noise or acting inany manner as to interfere with theinstructors ability to conduct the class oractivity.

H. Electronic Communication Devices:Electronic devices such as CD players,ipods, radios, recorders, headphones,pagers, beepers, cellular telephones,

hand-held electronic games and/or otherentertainment systems are potentiallydisruptive to the educational process.

Use of the above items is limited tobefore 7:40 a.m. and after 2:39 p.m.Students may also use the above itemsduring their assigned lunch period tocheck email, texts and use as apersonal audio device. Students may

not use the above items between 7:40a.m. and 2:39 p.m. for personal phonecalls.

Use of cameras or other camera likedevices will not be permitted at anytimewithout prior staff approval.

Windham Schools will not be heldresponsible for the damage or theft ofthese devices.

1st offense: Item will be taken andturned into the office. A detention willissued and the item will be returnedupon completion of assigned detention.

2nd offense: Item will be taken andturned into the office. A Detention Pluswill issued and the item will be returned

to the parent/guardian upon completionof assigned detention.

Additional offenses will result in furtherdisciplinary action. The device will bereturned 10 days after the completion ofsaid disciplinary action.

I. Extortion: A student shall not gain anymoney or thing of value from a personunless both parties enter into theagreement freely and without the

presence of implied threat.

J. Failure to Cooperate: Students areexpected to cooperate with schoolpersonnel at all times. This includesinvestigations, safety drills and normaloperations of the school day.

K. Forgery: A student shall not falsifyschool forms, records, correspondence,examination papers, term papers, or anyother school data not herein listed.

L. Gambling: A student shall notparticipate in games of chance for theexpress purpose of exchanging moneyor items of value. (Card games andother games of chance are not allowed.)

M. Hazing: Hazing means doing any actor coercing another, including the victim,to do any act of initiation into anystudent or other organization that

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causes or creates a substantial risk ofcausing mental or physical harm to anyperson. Therefore, any fear,embarrassment or pain caused by anact of hazing may result in disciplinaryaction. A student shall not plan,encourage, or engage in any hazing ofanother student or students. Studentorganizations are not permitted to hazemembers of their organization.Permission, consent, or assumption ofrisk by an individual subjected to hazingdoes not lessen the prohibitioncontained in this policy. Hazing is amisdemeanor of the fourth degree.

N. Horseplay: A student shall not act in sucha manner that may cause injury to self,others or damage to school district property.

O. Intimidation/Threat: A student shall notmake threats, menace or taunt otherstudent(s) or adult(s) either directly orindirectly. Making threats shall constituteprovocation. Threats shall not be made in a

joking or humorous manner. All threats willbe treated as a violation of this section.

P. Insubordination: A student shall notdisregard or refuse to obey reasonabledirections given by school personnel duringany period of time when the student is underthe authority of school personnel or at anyschool sponsored event. Repeatedviolations of minor rules, directives, ordiscipline procedure shall constituteinsubordination.

Q. Obscenity: A student shall not voice anutterance or have an act that is repulsive orabhorrent to morality.

R. Profanity: A student shall not use profanity,obscenities or obscene gestures while onschool grounds or attending school-

sponsored activities or functions.

S. Racial Slurs and Personal Slurs: Anindividual has the right to his/her self-respect. An individual shall not make anywritten/verbal derogatory remarks aboutanother person/group. Specificallyprohibited: actions that willfully intimidate,insult or abuse any member of the schoolstaff or student body.

T. Theft: A student shall not take, attempt totake, acquire, or be in possession ofproperty belonging to the school or privateproperty belonging to another student,teacher, visitor, or employee of the school

district without the consent of the owner.

U. Unacceptable Behavior: A student shallnot exhibit any behavior deemedunacceptable by a prudent individual.Repeated disobedience, repeated andflagrant violation of the code of conduct willnot be tolerated.

V. Unauthorized Area: A student shall not bein any area of the school without properauthorization from school personnel.

W. Verbal Altercation: Students shall notengage in a verbal altercation with anystudent, school building visitor or employeeof the Windham Board of Education. Suchactions are counter-productive to theeducational process and may furtherescalate into a physical altercation.

4. GANGS ARE PROHIBITED

The Windham Exempted Village School Districtrecognizes that a school must create a safeenvironment in which learning can take place.The presence of gangs in the school disruptsthat environment by threatening the safety ofstudents in the school building and causingdisruption of the academic process. As a resultof this belief, the Windham Exempted VillageSchool District bars all gangs and gang activitiesfrom school buildings and school property at alltimes.

A gang is defined as any identifiable groupor club which exists without the sponsorshipof the school or sponsorship of anyrecognized adult community or civicorganization and which has no acceptable

social goals; further, it includes any groupwhose purpose and practices include thecommission of illegal acts, violations ofschool rules, establishment of territory orturf, or any actions that interfere with thesafety or welfare of others.

Gang activity such as initiations, recruitment,wearing of colors, hand gestures, fighting,

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assault, hazing or establishing turf, onschool property, at school functions andschool related activities will not be tolerated.Students who engage in gang activities shallbe prosecuted, suspended and/or expelled.

INSIGNIA No gang insignia may be wornor carried by an student on school groundsat any time. This includes:A. Jackets, headbands, bandanas, rags,

shirts or other clothing that have cometo be identified with a gang.

B. Tattoos or other material imprinted onthe body which is either intended to bepermanent or easily removed.

C. Medallions or other jewelry whichidentify gang members or which havecome to represent a gang.

D. Students in violation of this regulationmay be immediately ejected from school

grounds until such time as the offensiveinsignia is removed. Students mayreturn to school grounds only if accompanied by parent or guardian.Students who refuse to remove ordispose of the insignia will besuspended. A repetition of this offensemy result in expulsion.

5. TOBACCO

Smoking/Use/Possession/Ready to Smoke:A student shall not use or have in possession

tobacco in any form while on school property orwhile attending a school sponsored functionregardless of where or when the activity is held.School property includes the parking lot. Astudent shall not smoke or be preparing tosmoke while on school property or as he/sheleaves or approaches the school building. Thisrule affects students before, during, and afterschool hours. A student shall not have onhis/her person or in his/her possession or bewithin easy access to sell, give away, transmit,or conceal any tobacco products, matches orlighters.

Each offense of possession or use of any formof tobacco, matches or lighters shall beassigned 3 (three) days of out-of-schoolsuspension.

6. STUDENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

Students shall not use, possess, transmit, sell oroffer to sell, buy or attempt to buy, or conceal

alcoholic beverages, narcotics or other drugsincluding counterfeit drugs, or any paraphernaliacapable of being used to use drugs.

The Windham Board of Education recognizesthe serious societal problem of alcohol/drugabuse and dependency. Furthermore, theBoard recognizes the dependency state ofchemical use to be a primary physical illness.

As the central developmental institution for ourcommunitys youth, our schools play animportant role in early detection of drugs/alcoholuse, abuse and dependence; the protection ofchildren from the promotion and sales of alcoholand/or drugs, and counterfeit drugs; and theestablishment of treatment for the chemicallydependent person.

We recognize a dual responsibility to discipline

users and abusers and to offer help in seekingtreatment for chemically dependent studentsand their families. Toward this goal, we arecommitted to achieving an environment of lowrisk for any individual who would use or abusedrugs/alcohol. This goal cannot be achieved bythe schools alone regardless of funding, staffingability or program development. The family,church, law officials, community health services,mental health and treatment facilities, andconcerned citizens must also play a role if ourgoal is to be accomplished.

The school is obligated to perform specificfunctions such as notifying parents of behavioralsigns that may indicate a students use, abuse,dependency on alcohol or other chemicals andcode of conduct which may involve enforcementof approved disciplinary procedures.

Any student believed to be under the influenceof an illegal substance shall be examined andquestioned by administration and school nurse.Emergency medical assistance and/or local lawauthorities may be contacted, if deemednecessary.

*Prescribed drugs are defined as any chemicalsprescribed by a licensed physician for use by adesignated person in a designated dosage atspecific times.

Students are not permitted to have possessionof, or provide for the use of others, anyprescription or over-the-counter medication. Allmedications with the exception of specific

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asthma medications, must be kept anddispensed from the Building Office by schoolpersonnel. Students found in violation of thispolicy may face disciplinary action.

7. SUBSTANCE USE, ABUSE, ANDINTERVENTION

A. Sale and/or Distribution of ChemicalSubstances:

1. First Offense: The following actionswill be taken on a finding that there is areasonable certainty to believe that astudent has been selling, distributing,exchanging drugs/alcohol, counterfeitdrugs or anabolic steroids including anyas counterfeit. (A finding of reasonablecertainty will be reached only upon theconsideration of all the circumstancesand evidence of alleged activity.)

a. Automatic ten (10) days out-of-school suspension.

b. Automatic referral for expulsionwith no credit.

c. Referral to the proper lawauthorities.

d. The principal will meet with thestudent and the studentsparent(s) or guardian(s) andrecommend to them that thestudent attend an intervention

program.

2. Second Offense of Sale and/orDistribution of Chemical Substances:

a. Automatic referral tosuperintendent for expulsionwith no credit.

b. Referral to proper lawauthorities.

B. Use/Possession

1. The following actions will be taken on a

finding that there is reasonable certaintyto believe that a student has been usingor has been in possession of drugs/alcohol, anabolic steroids orcounterfeit products, drug paraphernaliain school or at school related functions.Students found to be under theinfluence of the above substances willbe disciplined under this section. (A

finding of reasonable certainty will bereached only upon the consideration ofall the circumstances and evidence ofthe alleged activity).

a. Automatic ten (10) days out-of-school suspension.

b. Automatic referral for expulsionwith no credit.

c. Referral to the proper lawauthorities.

d. The principal will meet with thestudent and the studentsparent(s) or guardian(s) andrecommend to them that thestudent attend an interventionprogram.

2. Second Offense of Use/Possession of

Chemical Substances:

a. Immediate suspension withautomatic referral to thesuperintendent for expulsion.

b. Referral to the proper lawauthorities.

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junior-seniorhigh school handbook 2010-2011

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