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CRETE HIGH SCHOOL Crete, Nebraska 2019 - 2020 STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK (Este libro también disponible en español) Phone: 402-826-5811 or 877-826-1019 (Toll Free) FAX: 402-826-2701 Website: www.creteschools.com

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  • CRETE HIGH SCHOOL Crete, Nebraska

    2019 - 2020 STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK

    (Este libro también disponible en español)

    Phone: 402-826-5811 or 877-826-1019 (Toll Free) FAX: 402-826-2701

    Website: www.creteschools.com

  • 1

    CRETE HIGH SCHOOL STAFF DIRECTORY

    Dr. Joshua McDowell ............ Superintendent ...................................................... [email protected]

    Dr. Bret Schroder .................. Curriculum Director .............................................. [email protected]

    Jason Weber ....................... Principal ................................................................ [email protected]

    Jim Moore ............................. Asst. Principal ....................................................... [email protected]

    BT Kracl ................................ Activities Director ................................................. [email protected]

    Jhonny Beltran ....................... Bilingual Counselor .............................................. [email protected]

    Dawn Draeger........................ Counselor .............................................................. [email protected]

    TEACHERS

    Matt Anderson ....................... Science .................................................................. [email protected]

    Alyssa Baber ......................... Math ...................................................................... [email protected]

    Tom Barnett ........................... Science .................................................................. [email protected]

    Amy Braunberger .................. ELL ....................................................................... [email protected]

    Miranda Bright ...................... Family Cons. Science ............................................ [email protected]

    Casey Carriker ....................... Voc. Ag. ................................................................ [email protected]

    Jacob Cathey ......................... Math ...................................................................... [email protected]

    Andy Christensen .................. Ind. Tech ............................................................... [email protected]

    Jennifer Coe ........................... Business ................................................................ [email protected]

    Travis Coe ............................. Art ......................................................................... [email protected]

    Stanley Croft ......................... Success Academy .................................................. [email protected]

    Cassidy Daly ......................... Science .................................................................. [email protected]

    Eric Fahrlander ...................... MS/HS Band ......................................................... [email protected]

    Trent Framke ......................... English/Journalism ................................................ [email protected]

    Lacey Franzen ....................... MS/HS Vocal Music ............................................. [email protected]

    Heather Garrelts .................... English .................................................................. [email protected]

    KiLee Griffin ......................... Social Studies ........................................................ [email protected]

    Matt Hintz ............................. Ind. Tech ............................................................... [email protected]

    Greg Hobza ........................... Social Studies ........................................................ [email protected]

    Heather Hoffman ................... EL ......................................................................... [email protected]

    Kelly James ........................... Science .................................................................. [email protected]

    Betsy Kozisek ........................ Resource ................................................................ [email protected]

    Jacque Kuzma........................ ELL ....................................................................... [email protected]

    Anna McCarthy ..................... Math ...................................................................... [email protected]

    Chuck McGinnis.................... Weights/Conditioning ........................................... [email protected]

    Darcy Meinke ........................ Social Science ....................................................... [email protected]

    Jessie Meinke ........................ SPED ..................................................................... [email protected]

    Nicole Menard ...................... English .................................................................. [email protected]

    Joaquin Muñoz Lizaga .......... Spanish ................................................................. [email protected]

    Mark Newmyer...................... PE/Health .............................................................. [email protected]

    Amanda Paredes .................... ELL ....................................................................... [email protected]

    Jay Quinn............................... Social Science/Weights ......................................... [email protected]

    Drew Rische .......................... Math ...................................................................... [email protected]

    Nicco Salvador ...................... SPED ..................................................................... [email protected]

    Todd Sandberg ...................... SPED ..................................................................... [email protected]

    Beau Schindler ...................... Math ...................................................................... [email protected]

    Julie Schumacher ................... German/Adv. Lit ................................................... [email protected]

    Katy Shaw ............................. Science. ................................................................. [email protected]

    Paul Smith ............................. English .................................................................. [email protected]

    Chelsea Thiem ....................... English ................................................................. [email protected]

    Marianne Unger ..................... Success Academy. ................................................. [email protected]

    Angela Wagoner .................... Spanish ................................................................. [email protected]

    Linda Witfoth ........................ MS/HS Media ....................................................... [email protected]

    OFFICE PERSONNEL & PARAPROFESSIONALS

    Wendy Byh-Jongejan .................. TeamMates Coordinator ................................................. [email protected]

    Mayelin Carranza ....................... Paraprofessional ............................................................ [email protected] Carmen Castaneda ....................... Bilingual Admin. Assistant ............................................ [email protected]

    Katy Davis ................................. Paraprofessional ............................................................ [email protected]

    Ellen Fochtman .......................... Paraprofessional ............................................................ [email protected] Olimpia Garcia ........................... Paraprofessional ............................................................. [email protected]

    Liz Irwin ..................................... Activities Assistant ......................................................... [email protected]

    Jay Johnson ................................. Paraprofessional ............................................................ [email protected] Abbie Page .................................. School Nurse .................................................................. [email protected]

    Ann Roesler ................................ Paraprofessional ............................................................. [email protected]

    Brooke Vote ................................ Registrar ......................................................................... [email protected] Sandy Vyhnalek .......................... Administrative Assistant ................................................ [email protected]

    mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]

  • 2

    INTENT OF STUDENT HANDBOOK

    This handbook is intended to provide general information about the operation, practices, and procedures of the school

    district. It is not a contract and should not be relied upon as such; however, it sets forth the rules and regulations of the school

    and the behavioral standards for students. The Board of Education may change policies at any time, and the administration

    may change rules, regulations or handbook provisions at any time. Copies of board policies are available in each school

    building, and those who have questions about the handbook should refer to the policies, or direct their questions to the building

    principal or superintendent of schools.

    BOARD OF EDUCATION

    Members of the Board of Education:

    Name Contact Information

    Justin Kuntz, President justin,[email protected]

    Bill Lorenz, Vice President [email protected]

    Julie Kozisek [email protected]

    Scott Peining [email protected]

    Greg Hollman [email protected]

    Greg Mach [email protected]

    MISSION STATEMENT

    The mission of Crete Public Schools, a diverse community of engaged individuals committed to the success of all, is

    to ensure learners have the character, knowledge, and skills to be respectful and productive members of a global society. Crete

    Public Schools will cultivate a culture where all are challenged, empowered, and supported to reach their maximum potential.

    DISTRICT BELIEFS AND VALUES

    Education is the collaborative effort of the family, school, and the community.

    Students, family, school, and community partnerships are built through meaningful relationships and active communication.

    Effective leadership, a positive learning climate, and competent and caring teachers are pivotal for learning.

    Quality curriculum and instruction reflect research-based best practices and developing technologies.

    Quality teaching and learning focuses on the development of creative thinking, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills necessary for a changing world.

    Schools support diversity by providing opportunities that meet unique needs and empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential.

    Education prepares individuals academically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and physically for a successful future.

    OBJECTIVES: (The desired and measurable end result for the district)

    We will increase student, staff, family, and community engagement annually.

    All individuals will demonstrate respectful behaviors.

    All students will demonstrate achievement based on local, state, or national assessments. The achievement gap between subgroups will decrease annually.

    All students will demonstrate growth of at least one year annually on individual, local, state, or national assessments.

    PARAMETERS: (Established guidelines from which the District will operate)

    We will make student-focused decisions.

    We will respect the unique diversity of students, staff, families, and communities.

    We will not tolerate discrimination or negative actions that hurt others.

    We will utilize effective, consistent systems and processes to guide our decisions.

    We will communicate effectively, both internally and externally, to our school and community.

    We will seek to listen and understand the celebrations, ideas, and concerns from our school and community.

    We will recruit, hire, and retain high quality staff with a growth mindset and high expectations for all individuals.

    We will support staff in their growth and development in order to provide effective education for all individuals.

    We will continuously evaluate and improve our educational programs and resources to support the whole learner.

    We will always maintain and practice procedures for the safety and security of our school community.

  • 3

    STRATEGIES: Strategy 1: We will support the social, emotional, and mental wellbeing of our students and staff.

    Strategy 2: We will develop, implement, and refine consistent district and building systems and processes to ensure

    fidelity.

    Strategy 3: We will develop and utilize strong communication models and channels that focus on both internal and

    external communication.

    Strategy 4: We will maximize the uniqueness of our very diverse and growing community to have greater student,

    staff, and family engagement.

    Strategy 5: We will refine our assessment, grading, and instructional practices to improve student achievement and

    growth.

  • 4

    August 2019 Dear Crete High School Students and Parents/Guardians, It is our pleasure to welcome everyone to another great year at Crete High School. We are excited to have students back in our

    classrooms. It is our mission for every student to feel welcome and connected to the CHS family. Additionally, we strive to

    cultivate a culture where all students are challenged, empowered, and supported to reach their maximum potential. We have

    great teachers who spend hours planning and creating learning activities to engage all students. Crete High School offers

    challenging college preparatory curriculum along with practical and applied courses of learning for all students. We believe all

    students will graduate from high school prepared for their future. We continually try to improve our communication with families. Information will be posted on our website along with various

    social media outlets. Here are some important dates and events for families to attend:

    9th Gr./New Student Parent Meeting Aug. 13 6:00 p.m.

    Open House Aug. 13 6:30 p.m. Parent/Teacher Conferences Oct. 1 & Feb. 11 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Oct. 3 & Feb. 13 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

    We look forward to seeing everyone at these events! Safety and security: Continues to be an emphasis at Crete High School. We have a strong working relationship with law enforcement on how to

    improve our emergency plans, practices and procedures. Please review the following information with your student:

    The only entrance into the building is the main entrance (door 1)

    Students will not be allowed to carry their backpacks to their classes

    Attendance is vitally important to the success of each student. Please make sure all students arrive well before the 8:05

    classroom tardy bell. We are looking forward to working with you throughout this school year. If you have any comments or questions, please feel

    free to contact us at any time.

    Sincerely,

    Jason Weber Jim Moore B.T. Kracl

    Principal Asst. Principal Activities Director

  • 5

    CRETE HIGH SCHOOL

    STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK

    2019-2020

    Section I: Enrollment Information

    Enrollment ................................................................................................................................................................ 7

    Enrollment Requirements ......................................................................................................................................... 7

    Grade Placement ...................................................................................................................................................... 7

    Immunization Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 7

    Option Enrollment and NSAA Eligibility ................................................................................................................ 8

    Student Insurance ..................................................................................................................................................... 8

    Surname Usage......................................................................................................................................................... 8

    Section II: Academics

    Career Academies ………………………………….................................... ............................................................ 8

    College Credit Opportunities.................................................................................................................................... 8

    Courses by Independent Study ................................................................................................................................. 8

    Grading Reports ....................................................................................................................................................... 8

    Grading System ........................................................................................................................................................ 9

    Graduation Requirements ......................................................................................................................................... 9

    Graduation Valedictorian and Honor Graduate Designations ................................................................................ 10

    Honor Roll/Academic Letter .................................................................................................................................. 10

    Infinite Campus Access to Student Information .................................................................................................... 11

    National Honor Society .......................................................................................................................................... 11

    Pass/Fail Option for Juniors and Seniors................................................................................................................ 11

    Policy for Course Retakes ...................................................................................................................................... 11

    Schedule Changes .................................................................................................................................................. 11

    Senior Release Time............................................................................................................................................... 11

    Student Aides ......................................................................................................................................................... 12

    Withdrawal from School ........................................................................................................................................ 12

    Section III: Student Behavior Expectations

    Forms of School Discipline .................................................................................................................................... 12

    Specific Student Conduct Rules ............................................................................................................................. 17

    Personal Electronic Devices ................................................................................................................................... 18

    Plagiarism Statement .............................................................................................................................................. 22

    Practices Regarding Police Questioning of Students ............................................................................................. 22

    Reporting Law Violations ...................................................................................................................................... 23

    Section IV: Student Rights, Conduct, Rules, & Regulations

    Computer and Technology Use .............................................................................................................................. 23

    Lockers ................................................................................................................................................................... 23

    Lunch Room Expectations ..................................................................................................................................... 23

    Posters, Announcements, and Advertisement ........................................................................................................ 24

    School Dances and Prom ........................................................................................................................................ 24

    Searches of Lockers and Other Types of Searches ................................................................................................. 24

    Student Parking ..................................................................................................................................................... 24

    Tornado Warnings .................................................................................................................................................. 24

    Video Surveillance ................................................................................................................................................. 25

    Parent Visitors and Volunteers ............................................................................................................................... 25

    Section V: Attendance

    Attendance Policy .................................................................................................................................................. 26

    Absence Procedure ................................................................................................................................................. 26

    Attendance and Absences ....................................................................................................................................... 26

    Attendance is Required to Participate in Activities ................................................................................................ 27

    Excessive Absenteeism/Habitual Truancy ............................................................................................................. 27

    Leaving School....................................................................................................................................................... 27

    Spectator at School Activities/College Visitations ................................................................................................. 27

    Tardiness ................................................................................................................................................................ 28

    Make Up for Absences from School ...................................................................................................................... 28

  • 6

    Section VI: UAthletics/Activities

    Activity Eligibility Requirements .......................................................................................................................... 29

    Activities Participation Code ................................................................................................................................. 30

    Coaching Staff and Sponsors ................................................................................................................................. 33

    Concussion Policy .................................................................................................................................................. 33

    Nominations for Academic All-State ..................................................................................................................... 34

    Sportsmanship at Athletic Events........................................................................................................................... 34

    Section VII: USStudent Services

    Bus Transportation ................................................................................................................................................. 35

    Crisis Management and Prevention ........................................................................................................................ 36

    Guidance and Counseling/Psychological Services ................................................................................................. 36

    Health Services ....................................................................................................................................................... 36

    Library Media Center ............................................................................................................................................. 38

    Lunch and Breakfast Information ........................................................................................................................... 39

    Lunches - Free and Reduced .................................................................................................................................. 39

    School Community Intervention Program.............................................................................................................. 40

    School Supplies & Fees.......................................................................................................................................... 40

    Section VIII. Student & Parental Rights – State and Federal

    Grievance Procedures ............................................................................................................................................. 44

    Non-Discrimination Policy .................................................................................................................................... 44

    Nondiscrimination in Education Programs and Activities ..................................................................................... 45

    Asbestos Notification ............................................................................................................................................. 45

    Notification to Parents Regarding Rights Granted Under Federal Laws ................................................................ 46

    Notice Concerning Directory Information ............................................................................................................. 46

    NOTICE OF STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

    "RECEIPT SHALL SERVE TO DEMONSTRATE THAT YOU AS PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A

    STUDENT ATTENDING CRETE PUBLIC SCHOOLS HAVE RECEIVED NOTICE OF THE STANDARDS OF

    CONDUCT OF THIS DISTRICT EXPECTED OF STUDENTS CONCERNING THE ABSOLUTE

    PROHIBITION AGAINST THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION, USE, OR DISTRIBUTION OF ILLICIT DRUGS

    AND ALCOHOL ON SCHOOL PREMISES OR AS A PART OF ANY OF THE SCHOOL'S ACTIVITIES AS

    DESCRIBED IN BOARD POLICY OR ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATION. THIS NOTICE IS BEING

    PROVIDED TO YOU PURSUANT TO P.L. 101-226 AND 34 C.F.R. PART 86, BOTH FEDERAL LEGAL

    REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DISTRICT TO OBTAIN ANY FEDERAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE. YOUR

    SIGNATURE ON THIS RECEIPT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT YOU AND YOUR CHILD OR CHILDREN WHO

    ARE STUDENTS ATTENDING THIS DISTRICT FULLY UNDERSTAND THE DISTRICT'S POSITION

    ABSOLUTELY PROHIBITING THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION, USE, OR DISTRIBUTION OF ILLICIT

    DRUGS AND ALCOHOL ON SCHOOL PREMISES OR AS A PART OF THE SCHOOL'S ACTIVITIES AS

    HEREIN ABOVE DESCRIBED AND THAT COMPLIANCE WITH THESE STANDARDS IS MANDATORY.

    ANY NON-COMPLIANCE WITH THESE STANDARDS CAN AND WILL RESULT IN PUNITIVE

    MEASURES BEING TAKEN AGAINST ANY STUDENT FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THESE

    STANDARDS."

  • 7

    SECTION I: ENROLLMENT INFORMATION

    ENROLLMENT IN SCHOOL

    Crete Public Schools will accept for enrollment any qualified resident of District #2. Non-residents must obtain

    approval for admission from the Superintendent's office prior to July 1. (See page 27 for additional activity eligibility

    requirements.)

    Enrollment forms are available in the Career Center. A birth certificate and current immunization records are required

    for admission by state law. (See below) Also, any new students from out-of-state must have a physical examination within 30

    days of enrollment. This is also required by state statute.

    ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS

    State law requires that parents/legal guardians provide a certified copy of a student’s birth certificate when enrolling a

    new student. If the document is not available at the time of enrollment, it must be provided within 30 days of enrollment.

    Parents may obtain this document from the Bureau of Vital Statistics in the state in which the child was born. Assistance in

    obtaining birth certificates may be obtained from Health Records Management, P.O. Box 95065, Lincoln, NE 68509-5065.

    There is a fee per certificate.

    Please note: The document parents receive from the hospital looks like a birth certificate, but it is not a certified copy.

    A certified copy has the raised seal of the state of Nebraska on it and is signed by the director of vital statistics.

    If a birth certificate is unavailable, other reliable proof of a student’s identity may be used. These documents could

    include naturalization or immigration documents showing date of birth or official hospital birth records, a passport, or a

    translation of a birth certificate from another country. The documents must be accompanied by an affidavit explaining the

    inability to produce a copy of the birth certificate.

    GRADE PLACEMENT/ADVANCEMENT TO NEXT GRADE LEVEL

    Students must have earned a minimum of the following credits to advance to the next grade level

    10th grade – must have 50 hours minimum

    11th grade – must have 100 hours minimum

    12th grade – must have 150 hours minimum

    A student transferring from an approved or accredited school will be placed in Crete Public Schools at the grade level

    that is comparable to the placement in the school at the grade level indicated above. Temporary placement may be made until a

    student’s records are received to verify the placement.

    A student transferring during grades 9-12 will be responsible for meeting all graduation requirements if the student

    desires to earn a Crete High School Diploma. Credits earned during grades 9-12 at an approved or accredited school will be

    counted toward Crete High School graduation requirements. The building principal will determine the appropriate grade

    level/credit status of a student transferring from a foreign country.

    IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

    State law requires that all children must be adequately immunized with a minimum of 3 DTP

    (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), 3 OPV (Oral Polio Vaccine) and/or IPV (Injectable Polio Vaccine),

    2 MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella after 12 months of age), and chicken pox vaccine by the first

    day they enroll in school. All 7th grade students and out-of-state transfers must also have three (3)

    Hepatitis B. UStudents who do not meet the requirements will not be permitted to begin school. U

    Exemptions are as follows:

    1. Medical exceptions for health reasons substantiated by a signed statement from a physician.

    2. Religious conflict substantiated by a signed affidavit from the student or the student's legal guardian, if the student is a

    minor.

    3. Students can enroll with verification of having received 1 DTP, MMR and Hepatitis B. Failure to complete the series as

    scheduled will result in immediate removal from school until the requirement has been met.

  • 8

    OPTION ENROLLMENT AND NSAA ELIGIBILITY FOR SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

    Students considering transferring to a different school must keep in mind the May 1 deadline as set by the Nebraska

    School Activities Association. The NSAA has strict rules which govern student eligibility; not only at their home school

    district, but also at the district they intend to transfer to. More information regarding the eligibility can be found by contacting

    the Activities Director or the NSAA (www.nsaahome.org).

    STUDENT INSURANCE

    At the beginning of each school year all students are given the opportunity to purchase group accident insurance

    through a private company. The fee is small for the coverage provided. The student is covered for travel to and from school,

    activities during the school day, school-sponsored events and all athletic participation except football. Insurance for football

    may be purchased at a higher rate. Schools do not carry insurance on students, their vehicles, or other personal property. The

    school encourages you to take advantage of this opportunity if you do not have medical insurance coverage.

    SURNAME USAGE

    The student's legal surname must be used in the classroom and on all records and reports as required by state law.

    SECTION II: ACADEMICS

    CAREER ACADEMIES

    Career Academy classes are dual credit classes offered in cooperation with CHS, SCC, & SENCAP. These classes

    give students an opportunity to explore various careers and to take classes in specific areas of interest. Students interested in

    these opportunities must see the counselors.

    COLLEGE CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES - “JUMP START”

    Crete seniors and juniors have several opportunities to take courses to get a “jump start” on college while in high

    school. Courses can be taken for dual credit (both high school and college credit) at a reduced tuition rate. Grades earned in

    any courses taught by staff other than Crete employees are accepted as “Pass/Fail”.

    Ways to earn college credit in high school are:

    1) College Board Advanced Placement Program (AP) (Calculus, Biology, World History, US Government

    and Politics, Human Geography and Spanish IV)

    2) Dual Credit Courses at CHS (via agreements with colleges such as PSC & SCC)(Probability & Statistics,

    Trigonometry & Pre-Calculus, Calculus, College Writing, Advanced Literature, and Advanced Biology)

    3) Dual Credit Courses on a college campus

    4) Career Academy

    Interested juniors and seniors need to contact the guidance counselors for additional information about the

    opportunities available this year and cost of tuition and books.

    COURSES BY INDEPENDENT STUDY

    Students who wish to take independent study classes during the summer or school year or make up a class due to

    failure (to meet graduation requirements) must have approval from the guidance counselor and administrator prior to enrolling

    in the class. The classes must be from fully accredited institutions (such as the UNL Independent Study High School). Grades

    from these courses will be included on the transcript, but will not replace grades previously earned.

    GRADING REPORTS

    Student progress reports are issued every three weeks of each grading period. Parents-Guardians are encouraged to

    contact teachers if they have questions or concerns.

    http://www.nsaahome.org/

  • 9

    Report cards are designed to help students and parents/guardians measure progress towards the goals and objectives of

    the class. These evaluations will be made at the end of each quarter. Report cards will be withheld if students have not paid

    fines or met other obligations.

    GRADING SYSTEM

    Grades will be reported to students and parents/guardians by a traditional letter grading system. For purposes of

    cumulative grade average and class ranking, a 4.00-point grading equivalent will be used. A student’s class rank is determined

    by the cumulative grade point average.

    To determine grade point average, multiply the number of credit hours times the grade points for the grade issued to

    get the total number of quality points. Then divide the total number of quality points by the total number of credit hours

    attempted.

    A+ = 97-100 C+ = 77 - 79

    A = 93 - 96 C = 73 - 76

    A- = 90 - 92 C- = 70 - 72

    B+ = 87 - 89 D+ = 67 - 69

    B = 83 - 86 D = 63 - 66

    B- = 80 - 82 D- = 60 - 62

    F = 59 and below

    Incompletes

    Students who receive a grade of “Incomplete” have two weeks (10 school days) to meet with teachers and complete

    missing coursework. If work is not complete after this time period has elapsed, the grade will change to “F,” and no credit will

    be issued. The administration reserves the right to extend this deadline on a case-by-case basis. (Example: an extended

    hospital stay.)

    Weighted Grades

    AP courses are “weighted” with an extra 1.0-point value on the 4.0 grading scale only. (For example, an A is worth

    4.0 on the regular grading scale; an A in an AP course is worth 5.0) A failing grade in an AP course will not be given any

    point value. Students planning to take any AP class are required to pay the $40 exam fee prior to taking the AP exam in

    May. It is possible that students may have to return to school after school is finished to take their AP exam.

    GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

    To graduate in 4 years, a student must pass an average of 55 credits per school year. Students are strongly encouraged

    to earn more than the required number by taking advantage of the many opportunities to learn valuable skills and knowledge

    from many course offerings. Students who elect to graduate at mid-term will retain the opportunity to use their activity pass

    and to participate in school activities provided they continue to follow school guidelines as outlined in the Student/Parent

    Handbook. Failure to do so may result in loss of these privileges, including participation in the graduation ceremony.

    These students must realize that it is their responsibility to contact the school regarding scholarships, school events and

    graduation information.

    Seniors who have not completed the prescribed course of study for graduation will not be permitted to participate in

    the commencement exercises and will not receive their diplomas until all requirements and obligations have been met.

    UGraduation Requirements By Hours of Credit:U (Grades 9-12)

    Total Credits Needed for Graduation 220

    Required Course Work Credit 150

    Elective Course Work Credit 70

    Minimum graduation requirements are listed below. Additional courses that are recommended and some-times

    required as preparation for admission to colleges and other types of post secondary education are also listed. It is strongly

    suggested that each student take as many courses as possible to better reach his/her maximum ability. UMany colleges require

    up to 4 years of math and science and 2 to 3 years of foreign language for admission. U Other departments also offer many

    valuable courses that are appropriate for a specific interest area and essential for sufficient technical preparation.

  • 10

    Minimum English Requirements - 40 credits including:

    English I 10 credits

    English II 10 credits

    English III 10 credits

    Minimum Math Requirements - 30 credits

    Minimum Social Studies Requirements - 30 credits including:

    American Studies 10 credits

    Government/Economics 10 credits

    World Studies 10 credits

    Minimum Science Requirements – 30 credits including:

    Basic Biology or Biology 10 credits

    Basic Physical Science or

    Physical Science 10 credits

    Minimum Physical Education Requirements - 10 credits (Students may NOT use participation in activities as

    substitute for credit in physical education)

    Minimum Health Requirements - 5 credits

    Minimum Career Ed. Requirement - 5 credits

    Graduation Requirements – EL

    As CHS students, English Learners (EL) students are required to meet all graduation requirements. CHS has a

    comprehensive EL program, which offers comparable courses to meet most of these requirements in all content areas.

    Advancement into regular education courses will be determined by EL teachers based on testing and student

    performance.

    Non-Degree Seeking Students

    As allowed by law, resident students under the age of 21 can attend school provided they haven’t earned a

    diploma/GED and they are not subject to suspension/expulsion from another school. If possible, the student’s course of study

    will be designed to provide for the opportunity to earn a high school diploma. If a diploma is not possible (due to age and/or

    lack of previous credits), students will be entered as “Non-Degree Seeking Students” and will not be classified as a particular

    grade level. These students will have the opportunity to participate in an Alternative Education Program, which could include

    work on GED preparation. Non-Degree Seeking Students with limited English skills can take part in the Young Adult EL

    Program as a way to build English skills to help prepare for an eventual GED. Adult Basic Education and Adult EL programs

    would be other options to consider for students who are unable to earn a high school degree.

    GRADUATION VALEDICTORIAN AND HONOR GRADUATE DESIGNATIONS

    Any student who graduates with a 4.0 or above will be recognized as a “Valedictorian”. If more than one student

    meets this criterion, the students will be designated as “Co-valedictorians”.

    If no student in the class has a 4.0 GPA, the valedictorian honor will go to the student with the highest GPA in the class. (In the case of a tie, “Co-valedictorians will be honored.)

    Students with minimum A- GPA’s (3.66) will be recognized as “Honor Graduates”.

    HONOR ROLL/ACADEMIC LETTER

    High school students must be enrolled in 6 periods of graded classesU each quarter to be considered for honor roll. Any

    college level class taken outside of school is counted. The following are awarded each year.

    Silver Honor Roll – must have 3.0 or above quarter average.

    Gold Honor Roll – must have 3.66 or above quarter average.

    Academic Letter – must be on silver or gold honor rolls 3 out of 4 quarters in a given school year.

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    INFINITE CAMPUS ACCESS TO STUDENT INFORMATION

    Crete Public Schools utilizes the Infinite Campus student records system. Parents can have access to their children’s

    grades and assignments by logging on to a secure web site. To activate the account, parents must present a photo ID at the

    school office. They are then given directions and pass codes to log on. This is an excellent way to monitor your children’s

    progress.

    NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

    To be considered for membership in National Honor Society (NHS), students must have a minimum 3.4 overall GPA.

    Students who meet this criterion by mid-year 10th grade can submit applications for consideration. A faculty committee then

    makes selections to NHS. UStudents must continue to be enrolled in 6 periods of classes to maintain membership in NHS U.

    PASS/FAIL OPTION FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS

    Juniors and seniors have the option to apply for one course each semester to be taken as a pass/fail

    option. Courses cannot be used to fulfill graduation requirements. This option is intended to encourage

    students to venture into courses that are interesting and challenging without fear of negatively impacting

    their class ranks or grade point averages. The teacher and administrators will decide whether the student

    will be allowed to take a course as a pass/fail option. Within the first seven weeks of each semester, a

    contract must be completed, signed by the student, parent, and teacher, and submitted to the

    principal/guidance counselor for final approval. (Contracts are available in the Career Center.) The

    student transcript will reflect the courses taken as “pass/fail” with a “P” or “F”, as well as the credits earned

    in the course, but it will not compute into GPA, Honor Roll, or class rank.

    POLICY FOR COURSE RETAKES

    Students not meeting a prerequisite grade in a course required for an advanced level course may retake the course with

    teacher permission. Students are not allowed to retake a class for a replacement grade – both the original grade and the new

    grade will appear on the transcript. Course credit may only be earned once.

    SCHEDULE CHANGES

    Signed approval from the student’s parent/guardian is required when a schedule change: a.) occurs after the first week

    of school; b.) involves a class needed to fulfill graduation requirements; c.) involves an academic or college prep class; or d)

    involves dropping a class which results in a reduction in credit hours.

    Schedule changes made within the first five days of the semester can be made without a penalty. Classes dropped

    after this time will result in assignment of an “F” for the class and can only be dropped with approval from the parent, teacher,

    counselor, and principal. In special cases, the counselor or an administrator may call together a committee to include an

    administrator, counselor, and a teacher to review circumstances surrounding the withdrawal request; this committee may then

    recommend an alternative plan.

    SENIOR RELEASE TIME

    Seniors who are on track to graduate this school year must be enrolled in a minimum of 7 class periods per day or as

    approved by guidance and administration. The remaining period may be release time. The intent of release time is to allow

    seniors the privilege to learn how to be accountable and responsible for their time. Release time must be approved by building

    administrators with parental permission and can be revoked at any time at the discretion of administration.

    Seniors requesting release time will be required to purchase a proxy card for $25 ($5 for card/$20 deposit).

    The card allows them to leave and re-enter the building during school hours (M-F from 8:05 to 3:31). When the card is

    returned at the end of the year, the deposit will be applied to the graduation fee. If the card is lost and reported

    immediately, there will be no replacement cost. If the card is lost, not reported, and not turned in at the end of the year,

    the student loses the deposit and pays the graduation fee.

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    Release time may be granted to seniors who meet and continue to meet the following criteria:

    1. The student must submit in writing the reason for requesting release time. 2. The student must have written parental permission to be released. 3. The student may not be credit deficient (must have senior status). 4. Seniors are not to be loitering in the commons or hallways during release time. 5. If a senior is failing a class or has a prior behavior and/or attendance problem, he/she may lose their release time

    privileges.

    STUDENT AIDES

    Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to be aides for teachers or in the office. Aides decrease the workload for

    teachers/office staff and receive valuable learning experiences. Students are to remain under the direct supervision of the

    teacher. (Student aides do not earn grades or credit.) Students in grade 12 may apply to be student aides in an elementary

    classroom during release time.

    WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

    Graduation is recognized by society as a significant and important accomplishment. Graduation from high school is

    an entry requirement for colleges, vocational schools, and many job positions. Any decision to withdraw from school before

    graduation should be made only after the student has visited with his/her parents/guardians, teachers, counselors and

    administrators.

    School attendance is required until the age of 18. Students under the age of 18 who are considering withdrawing from

    school must meet the requirements set forth and outlined in NDE Rule 10-005. A copy of these guidelines can be picked up in

    the office.

    Students who withdraw from school may re-enter at the beginning of the following semester.

    SECTION III: STUDENT BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

    Because neither the school nor the parent/guardian deal with all aspects of the student's life, it is essential that a sound

    working relationship between the parent/guardian and the school exists. School staff members and parents/guardians must

    work together to help the student be successful in school. UThe school cannot resolve the student's problems without

    parent/guardian support and cooperation. U

    Students have an opportunity to learn by sharing some of the responsibility for creating a good learning environment.

    To help maintain a quality instructional environment for all students attending Crete High School all students are expected to

    abide by the student conduct policies.

    The common goal of students, parents, faculty, and administration of Crete High School is to maintain a school

    atmosphere, which is conducive to learning. In order to achieve this, Crete High School will continue to review and distribute

    a set of reasonable and fair rules and policies. It is impossible to list every situation involving student behavior in the student

    handbook so administrators and teachers reserve the right to make decisions about behavior not listed here. We have listed

    expected behaviors in some specific situations. These guidelines apply in the classroom, in the school building, on school

    grounds, in attendance at all school functions, home and away, and on school buses. VIOLATIONS OF THE CRETE HIGH

    SCHOOL’S RULES AND POLICIES WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

    FORMS OF SCHOOL DISCIPLINE

    Short-Term Suspension:

    Students may be excluded by a Principal or the Principal’s designee from school or any school function for a period of up

    to five school days (short-term suspension) on the following grounds:

    1. Conduct that constitutes grounds for expulsion, whether the conduct occurs on or off school grounds; or,

    2. Other violations of rules and standards of behavior adopted by the Crete Public Schools Board of Education or the

    administrative or teaching staff of the school, which occur on or off school grounds, if such conduct interferes with school

    purposes or there is a nexus between such conduct and school.

    The following process will apply to short-term suspensions:

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    1. A Principal or the Principal’s designee will make a reasonable investigation of the facts and circumstances. A short-

    term suspension will be made upon a determination that the suspension is necessary to help any student, to further school

    purposes, or to prevent an interference with school purposes.

    2. Prior to commencement of the short-term suspension, the student will be given oral or written notice of the charges

    against the student. The student will be advised of what the student is accused of having done, an explanation of the evidence

    the authorities have, and be afforded an opportunity to explain the student's version of the facts.

    3. Within 24 hours or such additional time as is reasonably necessary following the suspension, a Principal or

    administrator will send a written statement to the student and the student's parent or guardian describing the student's conduct,

    misconduct or violation of the rule or standard and the reasons for the action taken.

    4. An opportunity will be given to the student, and the student's parent or guardian, to have a conference with a Principal

    or administrator ordering the short-term suspension before or at the time the student returns to school. The Principal or

    administrator shall determine who in addition to the parent or guardian is to participate in the conference.

    5. A student on a short-term suspension shall not be permitted to be on school grounds without the express permission of

    a Principal.

    Detentions

    Detention is meant to give the student an Uimmediate consequenceU for misbehavior, attendance problems, and/or for

    not completing assigned homework. Detentions assigned by an individual teacher will be served with that teacher. Each

    teacher will be responsible for handling his or her own detentions. It will be the student's responsibility to call

    parents/guardians and make transportation arrangements. Students will NOT be allowed to serve detentions during the school

    day. Students failing to serve detentions are subject to further disciplinary action which may include incomplete grade(s) for

    the course(s) until time is served.

    In-School Suspension/Time-Out Procedures

    A principal (or designee) may determine that it is necessary to exclude a student from classes. In-School

    Suspension/Time-Out may be used as an alternative to out-of-school suspension. The decision to remove a student from the

    classroom setting is made after a staff member has investigated the facts. Administrators will listen to students and

    parents/guardians when deciding on the appropriate consequences for a student being assigned to In-School Suspension with

    the understanding that parents/guardians are not always readily available when a decision to exclude a student needs to be

    made. Disruptive behavior during the school day may result in an immediate Time Out period spent in the Isolated Study

    Room.

    1. During an In-School Suspension/Time-Out, students will be placed in an Isolated Study Room.

    2. Students will be expected to follow all school rules and the rules posted in the Isolated Study Room.

    3. Students are required to turn in their cell phone.

    4. All students will be required to check in and out of the Isolated Study Room.

    5. Students assigned to an In-School Suspension/Time-Out will be monitored by an administrator, counselor

    and/or staff member.

    6. Students will have the option to request the door opened or closed. Students will relinquish this option if their

    behavior is inappropriate while in the Study Room.

    7. Students will remain in the Study Room until 3:45 or until a principal or designee releases them.

    Long-Term Suspension

    A long-term suspension means an exclusion from school and any school functions for a period of more than five

    school days but less than twenty school days. A student who on a long-term suspension shall not be permitted to be on school

    grounds without the express permission of a Principal. A notice will be given to the student and the parents/guardian when a

    Principal recommends a long-term suspension. The notice will include a description of the procedures for long-term

    suspension. The procedures will be those set forth in the Student Discipline Act.

    Suspended Students’ Homework Policy

    Students receiving out-of-school suspension are required to have their assignments completed upon returning to the

    classroom. They must take the responsibility to make arrangements to get their assignments. Failure to complete these

    assignments may result in UzerosU or a reduction in grade. This will be determined at the discretion of the teacher.

    Emergency Exclusion

    Emergency Exclusion may be recommended for a period of time up to twenty (20) days or as long as the student’s

    presence in school presents a danger to himself/herself or others.

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    Expulsion

    Meaning of Expulsion. Expulsion means exclusion from attendance in all schools, grounds and activities of or within

    the system for a period not to exceed the remainder of the semester in which it took effect unless

    (a) the misconduct occurred within ten school days prior to the end of the first semester, in which case the expulsion

    shall remain in effect through the second semester, or

    (b) the misconduct occurred within ten school days prior to the end of the second semester, in which case the

    expulsion shall remain in effect for summer school and the first semester of the following school year, or

    (c) the expulsion is for conduct specified in these rules or in law as permitting or requiring a longer removal, in which

    case the expulsion shall remain in effect for the period specified therein. Such action may be modified or terminated by the

    school district at any time during the expulsion period.

    Suspensions Pending Hearing. When a notice of intent to discipline a student by long-term suspension, expulsion, or

    mandatory reassignment is filed with the superintendent, the student may be suspended by the principal until the date the

    longterm suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment takes effect if no hearing is requested or, if a hearing is requested,

    the date the hearing examiner makes the report of his or her findings and a recommendation of the action to be taken to the

    superintendent. The suspension pending hearing may be imposed if the principal determines that the student must be suspended

    immediately to prevent or substantially reduce the risk of

    (a) interference with an educational function or school purpose or

    (b) a personal injury to the student himself or herself, other students, school employees, or school volunteers.

    Summer Review. Any expulsion that will remain in effect during the first semester of the following school year will

    be automatically scheduled for review before the beginning of the school year in accordance with law. 32 4.

    Alternative Education. Students who are expelled may be provided an alternative education program that will enable

    the student to continue academic work for credit toward graduation. In the event an alternative education program is not

    provided, a conference will be held with the parent, student, the Principal or another school representative assigned by the

    Principal, and a representative of a community organization that assists young people or that is involved with juvenile justice to

    develop a plan for the student in accordance with law.

    Suspension of Enforcement of an Expulsion. Enforcement of an expulsion action may be suspended (i.e., “stayed”) for

    a period of not more than one full semester in addition to the balance of the semester in which the expulsion takes effect. As a

    condition of such suspended action, the student and parents will be required to sign a discipline agreement.

    Students Subject to Juvenile or Court Probation. Prior to the readmission to school of any student who is less than 19

    years of age and who is subject to the supervision of a juvenile probation officer or an adult probation officer pursuant to a

    court order Court, who chooses to meet conditions of probation by attending school, and who has previously been expelled

    from school, the Principal or the Principal’s designee shall meet with the student's probation officer and assist in developing

    conditions of probation that will provide specific guidelines for behavior and consequences for misbehavior at school

    (including conduct on school grounds and conduct during an educational function or event off school grounds) as well as

    educational objectives that must be achieved. If the guidelines, consequences, and objectives provided by the Principal or the

    Principal’s designee are agreed to by the probation officer and the student, and the court permits the student to return to school

    under the agreed to conditions, the student may be permitted to return to school. The student may with proper consent, upon

    such return, be evaluated by the school for possible disabilities and may be referred for evaluation for possible placement in a

    special education program. The student may be expelled or otherwise disciplined for subsequent conduct as provided in Board

    policy and state statute.

    Expelled Students’ Educational Programs

    In the event action is being taken to expel a student from this school district, the Administration shall select one of the

    following described educational options to be made available to the expelled student during the period of expulsion, to-wit: (1)

    An alternative school, class, or educational program (hereinafter referred to as an “alternative program”; or (2) The

    development of a plan of behavior modification, educational objects, and financial resources and community programs

    available to meet the behavioral and educational objects, and monthly reviews to assess the student’s progress toward meeting

    the specified goals and objects. The superintendent or superintendent’s designee shall make known to the expelled student

    which of the alternative educational options the administration has selected for the student’s expulsion. Such information shall

    be made known to the expelled student on or before the date the expulsion becomes effective. An expulsion becomes effective,

    as to a student who has been given a written notice of a recommendation to expel, on the earliest of the following dates: (1) if

    the student, parent, or guardian has not requested a hearing, the sixth school day following receipt of the notice of the

    recommendation to expel, (2) if the student has requested a hearing, the date the student, parent, or guardian receives notice of

    the determination of the superintendent or superintendent’s designee to expel the student, or (3) such other date as may be

    mutually agreed by the student, parent, or guardian and the administration.

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    A. Alternative Education Program

    The approved alternative programs are: (1) school and community-based programs, (2) home-based programs, (3)

    specialized tutorial experiences, and (4) distance-learning. The Board of Education may, from time to time, approve other

    alternative programs and may approve specific alternative programs and may enter into contracts of the provision of such

    specific alternative programs. To the extent that the alternative programs are to be provided on-site, the individuals responsible

    for providing such on-site alternative program shall hold a valid Nebraska Teaching or Administrative Certificate. To the

    extent that the alternative program is to be community-based or off-site, such alternative program shall be planned in

    cooperation with and monitored or supervised by a school district staff member who holds a Nebraska Teaching or

    Administrative Certificate. Alternative programs may be conducted at times other than the regular school day.

    The superintendent or superintendent’s designee shall determine which alternative programs shall be made available

    to each specific expelled student based on a consideration of the interests of the school district and the student’s educational

    and behavioral objectives and needs, as determined in the discretion of the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee. If

    a parent or guardian refuses to participate or have the expelled child participate in the alternative programs made available, the

    district shall have no further obligation with regard to the provision of an alternative program. The superintendent or

    superintendent’s designee shall establish a specific date or time within which the parent or guardian shall be required to state in

    writing an agreement to participate in the alternative program. As a condition of participation in alternative programs which

    involve the payment of tuition or other similar expenses, the student, parent, or guardian may be required, as a condition of

    such alternative program being available, to agree in writing to pay the tuition or similar costs for such programs in the event

    the expelled student fails to successfully complete the program.

    The standards of student behavior and cooperation required of students in the regular programs of this school district

    shall also be required of expelled students throughout the entire time period of the alternative program. Additional standards

    may be established in each specific program and for each specific expelled student. If the expelled student fails to meet the

    required standards of student behavior or cooperation, the student may be further disciplined by disciplinary punishment up to

    and including expulsion for an additional period of time beyond that being served by the expelled student. Further, if the

    expelled student fails to meet any of the conditions of the learning programs, the district may, by action of the superintendent

    or superintendent’s designee, terminate the alternative program for the expelled student. A due process hearing substantially in

    compliance with the statutory provisions for suspension and expulsion of students shall be made available, unless waived by

    the parent or legal guardian.

    Upon preapproval by the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee, academic credit towards graduation or

    advancement in grade level shall be made available to students participating in alternative programs for expelled students. The

    academic credits to be awarded shall be equal to the same academic credit a student in the school district’s regular educational

    program would earn for completion of a similar educational program, as determined in the discretion of the superintendent or

    superintendent’s designee. Such academic credits shall not be earned unless the expelled student has successfully completed

    the conditions of the alternative program, as determined by the teacher and the superintendent or superintendent’s designee.

    The superintendent or superintendent’s designee shall determine whether or not to what extent such academic credits should be

    assigned to subject area or other specific graduation or advancement requirements. The achievement mark (i.e., grades)

    assigned for such academic credits shall not be available to the advantage of the expelled student for honor work, class rank, or

    other academic honors or recognition.

    B. Education Plan Program

    If the administration elects not to provide an alternative education program outlined in subparagraph A. above, the

    following procedures shall be followed prior to expelling a student unless the expulsion was required by subsection (4) of the

    UNeb. Rev. StatU.: 79-283; said procedures being as follows, to-wit:

    1. A conference shall be called by a school administrator and held to assist the district in the development of a plan with the

    participation of a parent or legal guardian, the student, a school representative, and a representative of either a community

    organization with a mission of assisting young people or a representative of an agency involved with juvenile justice.

    2. The plan shall be in writing and adopted by a school administrator and resented to the students and the parent or legal

    guardian.

    3. The plan shall:

    a. Specify guidelines and consequences for behaviors which have been identified as preventing the student from

    achieving the desired benefits from the educational opportunities,

    b. Identify educational objectives that must be achieved in order to receive credits towards graduation.

    c. Specify the financial resources of the community programs available to meet both the educational and behavior

    objects identified, and

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    d. Require the students to attend monthly reviews in order to assess the student’s progress toward meeting the

    specified goals and objectives.

    The school district shall submit such plan following development.

    Other Forms of Student Discipline

    Administrative and teaching personnel may also take actions regarding student behavior, other than removal of

    students from school, which are reasonably necessary to aid the student, further school purposes, or prevent interference with

    the educational process. Such actions may include, but need not be limited to, counseling of students, parent conferences,

    rearrangement of schedules, requirements that a student remain in school after regular hours to do additional work, restriction

    of extracurricular activity, or requirements that a student receive counseling, psychological evaluation, or psychiatric

    evaluation upon the written consent of a parent or guardian to such counseling or evaluation. The actions may also include in-

    school suspensions during the day. When in-school suspensions, after-school assignments, or other disciplinary measures are

    assigned, the student is responsible for complying with such disciplinary measures and a failure to serve such assigned

    discipline as directed will serve as grounds for further discipline, up to expulsion from school.

    Grounds for Short-Term Suspension, Long-Term Suspension, Expulsion or Mandatory Reassignment The following conduct has been determined by the Board of Education to have the potential to seriously affect the

    health, safety or welfare of students, staff and other persons or to otherwise seriously interfere with the educational process.

    Such conduct constitutes grounds for long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment, and any other lesser forms

    of discipline. The conduct is subject to the consequence of long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment where

    it occurs on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by the school and being used for a school purpose or in a

    vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or an employee’s designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or

    athletic event.

    1. Willfully disobeying any reasonable written or oral request of a school staff member, or the voicing of disrespect to those in authority.

    2. Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, harassment, or similar conduct in a manner that constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes or making any communication that reasonable recipient would interpret

    as a serious expression of an intent to harm or cause injury to another;

    3. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to property, stealing or attempting to steal property of substantial value, repeated damage or theft involving property, or setting or attempting to set a fire of any magnitude;

    4. Causing or attempting to cause personal injury to any person, including any school employee, school volunteer, or student. Personal injury caused by accident, self-defense, or other action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it

    was necessary to protect some other person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision;

    5. Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of or with the intent of obtaining money or anything of value from such student or making a threat which causes or may be expected to cause a disruption to school operations;

    6. Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon or that has the appearance of a weapon or bringing or possessing any explosive device, including fireworks;

    7. Selling, using, possessing or dispensing of alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, drugs, controlled substance, or an inhalant; being under the influence of any of the above; possession of drug paraphernalia, or the selling, using, possessing, or

    dispensing of an imitation controlled substance as defined in section 28-401 of the Nebraska 34 statutes, or material

    represented to be alcohol, narcotics, drugs, a controlled substance or inhalant. Use of a controlled substance in the

    manner prescribed for the student by the student’s physician is not a violation. The term “under the influence” has a

    less strict meaning than it does under criminal law; for school purposes, the term means any level of impairment and

    includes even the odor of alcohol or illegal substances on the breath or person of a student; also, it includes being

    impaired by reason of the abuse of any material used as a stimulant;

    8. Public indecency or sexual conduct; 9. Engaging in bullying, which includes any ongoing pattern of physical, verbal, or electronic abuse on school grounds,

    in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school being used for a school purpose by a school employee or a

    school employee’s designee, or at school-sponsored activities or school-sponsored athletic events;

    10. Sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault any person. This conduct may result in an expulsion regardless of the time or location of the offense if a complaint alleging such conduct is filed in a court of competent jurisdiction;

    11. Engaging in any activity forbidden by law which constitutes a danger to other students or interferes with school purposes. This conduct may result in an expulsion regardless of the time or location of the offense if the conduct

    creates or had the potential to create a substantial interference with school purposes, such as the use of the telephone

    or internet off-school grounds to threaten; or

    12. Repeated violation of any rules established by the school district or school officials if such violations constitute a substantial interference with school purposes;

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    13. Truancy or failure to attend assigned classes or assigned activities; or tardiness to school, assigned classes or assigned activities;

    14. The use of language, written or oral, or conduct, including gestures, which is profane or abusive to students or staff members. Profane or abusive language or conduct includes, but is not limited to, that which is commonly understood

    and intended to be derogatory toward a group or individual based upon race, gender, disability, national origin, or

    religion;

    15. Dressing or grooming in a manner which is dangerous to the student's health and safety or a danger to the health and safety of others or repeated violations of the student dress and grooming standards; dressing, grooming, or engaging in

    speech that is lewd or indecent, vulgar or plainly offensive; dressing, grooming, or engaging in speech that school

    officials reasonably conclude will materially and substantially disrupt the work and discipline of the school; dressing,

    grooming, or engaging in speech that a reasonable observer would interpret as advocating illegal drug use.

    16. Willfully violating the behavioral expectations for those students riding Crete Public Schools buses. 17. A student who engages in the following conduct shall be expelled for the remainder of the school year in which it took

    effect if the misconduct occurs during the first semester, and if the expulsion for such conduct takes place during the

    second semester, the expulsion shall remain in effect for the first semester of the following school year, with the

    condition that such action may be modified or terminated by the school district during the expulsion period on such

    terms as the administration may establish:

    a. The knowing and intentional use of force in causing or attempting to cause personal injury to a school employee, school volunteer, or student, except if caused by accident, self-defense, or on the reasonable belief

    that the force used was necessary to protect some other person and the extent of force used was reasonably

    believed to be necessary, or

    b. The knowing and intentional possession, use, or transmission of a dangerous weapon other than a firearm. 18. Knowingly and intentionally possessing, using, or transmitting a firearm on school grounds, in a school-owned or

    utilized vehicle, or during an educational function or event off school grounds, or at a school-sponsored activity or

    athletic event. This conduct shall result in an expulsion for one calendar year. “Firearm” means a firearm as defined in

    18 U.S.C. 921, as that statute existed on January 1, 1995. That statute includes the following statement: “The term

    ‘firearm’ means

    a. any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;

    b. the frame or receiver of any such weapon; c. any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or d. any destructive device.” The Superintendent may modify such one-year expulsion requirement on a case-

    bycase basis, provided that such modification is in writing. Bringing a firearm or other dangerous weapon to

    school for any reason is discouraged; however, a student will not be subject to disciplinary action if the item

    is brought or possessed under the following conditions:

    i. Prior written permission to bring the firearm or other dangerous weapon to school is obtained from the student's teacher, building administrator and parent.

    ii. The purpose of having the firearm or other dangerous weapon in school is for a legitimate educational function.

    iii. A plan for its transportation into and from the school, its storage while in the school building and how it will be displayed must be developed with the prior written approval by the teacher and

    building administrator. Such plan shall require that such item will be in the possession of an adult

    staff member at all times except for such limited time as is necessary to fulfill the educational

    function.

    iv. The firearm or other dangerous weapon shall be in an inoperable condition while it is on school grounds.

    SPECIFIC STUDENT CONDUCT RULES

    The following additional student conduct rules are established. Failure to comply with such rules is grounds for

    disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, as further specified in these rules. These rules govern student conduct on

    school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school being used for a school purpose or in a vehicle being

    driven for a school purpose by a school employee or by his or her designee, or at a school-sponsored activity or athletic event.

    Specific Rule Items

    Students at Crete High School are expected to act respectfully to all students and staff. Students must avoid the

    following behaviors:

    1. Bringing in outside containers during the school day

    2. Overt acts of attention getting, thus disturbing others

    3. Cheating, stealing, lying, or forgery

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    4. Excessive acts of student affection in school or on school grounds

    5. Acts of gambling in school or on school grounds

    6. Displaying obscene literature, sexually explicit, racially offensive, or illegal material, as well as material which may

    promote violence or subversive activities

    7. Misuse of student passes

    8. Excessive, loud, disorderly conduct or behavior

    9. Displaying poor eating manners

    10. Disrupting the classroom, thereby interfering with the opportunity for others to learn

    11. Possession of a lighter, matches, or other items considered flammable

    12. Aggressive, bullying or threatening behavior

    13. Acts of character defamation of fellow students

    14. Acts of extortion, coercion, harassment or group ostracism in school or on school property

    15. Inappropriate use of computer and/or Internet

    16. Bringing items to school that are not required for educational purposes.

    17. Any violation of the Computer and Technology Use Policy (outlined on page 21).

    18. Repeated violations of school rules.

    Bullying Behavior The Crete Board of Education prohibits acts of bullying. A safe and civil environment in school

    is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. Bullying, like other destructive or

    violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate

    its students in a safe environment. Administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers should provide positive

    examples and refuse to tolerate harassment or bullying. Students should be encouraged to demonstrate

    appropriate behavior by treating others with civility and respect.

    Bullying is defined as any ongoing or repeated pattern of gestures of written, verbal, graphic, electronic (cyber) or

    physical acts that are reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race,

    color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression; or a mental, physical or

    sensory disability or impairment; or by any other distinguishing characteristic. Bullying is strictly prohibited on school

    grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased or contracted by a school or being used for a school purpose by an employee or his or her

    designee, at a designated school bus stop, or at school-sponsored activities. In addition, bullying occurring off school grounds,

    but interfering with the purpose of school, will be addressed in accordance of the policy.

    In an effort to prevent bullying the district has developed and implemented an education plan for all students and staff.

    This policy will be reviewed annually in order to determine the effectiveness of strategies. A violation of this policy allows the

    school to implement the maximum consequences available under State statute which may include but are not limited to

    suspension and/or expulsion from school.

    PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES

    Philosophy and Purpose. Crete Public Schools strongly discourages students from bringing and/or using personal

    electronic devices at school. The use of personal electronic devices can be disruptive to the educational process and are items

    that are frequently lost or stolen. In order to maintain a secure and orderly learning environment, and to promote respect and

    courtesy regarding the use of personal electronic devices, the District hereby establishes the following rules and regulations

    governing student use of personal electronic devices, and procedures to address student misuse of personal electronic devices.

    Definitions

    A. “Personal electronic devices” include, but are not limited to, cell phones, Mp3 players, iPods, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable game consoles, cameras, digital scanners, lap top computers, and other electronic or battery

    powered instruments which transmit voice, text, or data from one person to another.

    B. “Sexting” means generating, sending or receiving, encouraging others to send or receive, or showing others, through an electronic device, a text message, photograph, video or other medium that:

    1. displays sexual content, including erotic nudity, any display of genitalia, unclothed female breasts, or unclothed buttocks, or any sexually explicit conduct as defined at Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-1463.02;

    or

    2. sexually exploits a person, whether or not such person has given consent to creation or distribution of the message, photograph or video by permitting, allowing, encouraging, disseminating,

    distributing, or forcing such student or other person to engage in sexually explicit, obscene or

    pornographic photography, films, or depictions; or,

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    3. displays a sexually explicit message for sexual gratification, flirtation or provocation, or to request or arrange a sexual encounter.

    Possession and Use of Personal Electronic Devices

    A. Students are not permitted to possess or use any personal electronic devices during class time except as otherwise provided by this policy. Cell phone usage is strictly prohibited during any class period; including voice usage, digital imaging,

    or text messaging.

    B. Students are permitted to possess and use personal electronic devices before school hours, at lunch time, and after school hours, provided that the student not commit any abusive use of the device. Administrators have the discretion to prohibit

    student possession or use of personal electronic devices on school grounds during these times in the event the administration

    determines such further restrictions are appropriate; an announcement will be given in