Pittsburg Public SchoolsEst. 1909

Student Handbook2019-2020

TABLE OF CONTENTSActivity Calendar……………………………6Adverse Weather …………………………..25Annual Notification ……………………..…36Asbestos Policy……………..………………36Attendance …………………………..………8Attendance/Activity Policy ……………….…9Bell Schedule…………..…………………… 7Board of Education ………………….………4Breakfast & Lunch Program ……………….24Bullying, Hazing, & Harassment ……..…….21Bus Riding Rules...…….….………………...12Class Fundraisers …………….……………...26Computer Lab Policy……………..………….11Conclusion …………….………..…..……….37Consent Form ……………………….………38Course Requirements ……………….………12Dances ……………...….…………………...34Detention Policy …………………………....20Disciplinary Action Schedule …………..…..18

Discipline Policy …………………………...16Dress Code …………………………………22

Emergency Drills …………………………..24Enrollment …………………………………..7Floor Plan ………………….……………….37Food/Drink Policy ……………………….…..6General Procedure ………………………….11Goals & Philosophy………………………… 4Grading …………………………………….16Guidance Service…………………………… 7Honor Societies/Honor Rolls ………………12Immunizations ……………………………...27Internet Use Policy………………………….11Library ……………………………………...21Lockers ….………………………………….24Lost & Found ….……………….…………...15Nondiscrimination …………………..……...32Parent/Teacher Conferences………..…….…23Personnel …………………..………………...5Prescription Drugs ……………………..……29Promotion/Retention ………………..………25Scholarship ……………………………………3

A GUIDEBOOK FOR STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND PATRONS

All students are responsible for the information and regulations included in this bulletin and are subject to all rules and regulations set forth by the Pittsburg Board of Education, State Department of Education, and the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association.

PITTSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOLS PITTSBURG, OK

AUGUST 2020NOTE: the School Board or Administration reminds the student these rules are subject to change at a later date.

MISSION STATEMENT

Pittsburg Public School District, in partnership with the community, pursues educational excellence and dedicates its resources to create a learning environment that encourages all students to become productive citizens and lifelong learners in global society.

SCHOOL MOTTO: Scholarship-Sportsmanship-CitizenshipSCHOOL COLORS: Royal Blue, Gold, White, & Black

SCHOOL MASCOT: Panther

SCHOLARSHIPThe quest for knowledge and curiosity has been among the greatest attributes of mankind. The communication of the thoughts of the greatest minds through the ages of man is available to us through a medium of education. This is an opportunity we cannot afford to pass up.

SPORTSMANSHIPOur penal institutions are full of people who haven’t been able to cope with the problems of daily life. We must learn to complete and play the game of life with all the vigor we can muster, but we also must learn to accept temporary setbacks and failures. The real winners in life are those who have learned to set worthwhile goals and experience the wonderful feeling of success in accomplishing while not becoming frustrated by temporary roadblocks or failure. If there were no obstacles there could be no success.

CITIZENSHIPThe great country of ours “of the people, by the people and for the people” can be great as long as it’s citizens are responsible enough to be productive and maintain the ideals that made this country great. It is our sincere commitment that the experiences of the students of Pittsburg School will be such that they will become that kind of citizen.

A NOTE TO PARENTSThe High School Office will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. We suggest to the parents that they urge their children to eat the well-balanced meals served in the cafeteria. Good nutrition plays a vital role in a student’s academic success and we feel student’s function better when they eat balanced meals.

GOALSPittsburg graduates will:1. Be able to function effectively as a member of a family/household.2. Be an effective communicator.3. Be an effective problem solver in all aspects of life as well as an

effective decision maker to minimize those problems.

4. Be a productive citizen within our society who can render responsible decisions in order to vote and be potential leaders of their community.

5. Be able to function effectively as a team member in the work place.6. Seek life-long learning opportunities outside the structured

educational environment.7. Have high self-esteem as well as positive approach to life itself.8. Respect the value of human life and the rights of others no matter

what their race, sex, religion, or choice of lifestyle.

PHILOSOPHYThe philosophy of the Pittsburg School is based upon the following general rules:

Pittsburg citizens have rights and responsibilities. The student does not divest himself of his constitutional rights on entering the schoolhouse.

So long as a student does not disrupt the educational process, impose upon, endanger or deprive others of their rights, the student will enjoy his freedom of expression, orderly assembly privacy of person and freedom from discrimination.

Fair and reasonable procedure will be followed to assure the student’s rights. The student, in turn, needs to recognize that to maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning, the reasonable exercise of authority by school officials is necessary.

All persons connected with our school must demonstrate respect for the rights of the student, and students must accept their responsibility toward others and toward the school system.

Rules of discipline are guidelines for behavior, so that all may know what is expected of them in the school community.

BOARD OF EDUCATIONThe voters of the Pittsburg Community elect the Board of Education. This board is the governing body of the Pittsburg Public School System. The board is charged with the responsibility of determining school policies, hiring school personnel, approving all financial transactions, and many other administrative duties. It is the duty of the students and all concerned to respect and obey school board policies.

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIESThese general policies in this booklet become binding and a part of the Pittsburg School Board policies to all students with their enrollment in said Pittsburg Public School.

PITTSBURG SCHOOL FACULTY AND STAFF

Administration

Chad Graham – SuperintendentWes Wood - K-12 Principal

Secretarial

Carol Depue - Secretary Beverly Harris – Secretary

Support PersonnelLacie Furr - Cafeteria

Summer Heffley – CafeteriaStan Moore – Transportation/Custodial

Charlie Rowland – TransportationLance Hess – Custodial

Alfred Nalley – CustodialJohnny Johnston - Custodial

Board of EducationLoraine Parent – President

Jimmy Cross – Vice PresidentVerna Caudill – Clerk

Kanimaya Schock– MemberMarlene Wilson – Member

PITTSUBURG PUBLIC SCHOOLS2019-2020

Teacher In-service-----------------------------------------------------------------------Aug 5-7Open House (Meet and Greet)----------------------------------------------------------Aug 7First Day of School---------------------------------------------------------------------Aug 8Labor Day (No School) ----------------------------------------------------------------Sept 2Parent/Teacher Conf--------------------------------------------------------------------Oct 4Fall Break (No School) -----------------------------------------------------------------Oct 17-18DAYS TAUGHT 54 PROFESSIONAL DAYS 3

PARENT/TEACHER CONF 1Thanksgiving Break (No School) ------------------------------------------------------Nov 25-29Christmas Break (No School) -------------------------------------------------------Dec 23-Jan 3DAYS TAUGHT 35

School resumes-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Jan 6Professional Day (No School) -----------------------------------------------------------Jan 20Professional Day (No School) -----------------------------------------------------------Feb 17Snow Day (No School)--------------------------------------------------------------------Feb 21Snow Day (No School)--------------------------------------------------------------------Feb 28Parent/Teacher Conf------------------------------------------------------------------------March 5Snow Day (No School) ------------------------------------------------------------------March 6Snow Day (No School) -------------------------------------------------------------------March 13Spring Break----------------------------------------------------------------------------March 16-20Snow Day (No School)--------------------------------------------------------------------March 27DAYS TAUGHT 44

PROFESSIONAL DAYS 2 PARENT/TEACHER CONF 1

Snow Day(No School)---------------------------------------------------------------------April 3Snow Day (No School) -------------------------------------------------------------------April 10Snow Day (No School)---------------------------------------------------------------------April 17Snow Day (No School)---------------------------------------------------------------------April 24Last Day of School--------------------------------------------------------------------------May 1Graduation------------------------------------------------------------------------------------May 1DAYS TAUGHT 25

PROFESSIONAL DAYS 0

TOTAL DAYS TAUGHT 158PROFESSIONAL DAYS 5

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES 2

SNOW DAYS WILL BE A HOLIDAY IF NOT USED DURING WINTER MONTHS

SCHOOL STAFFKeri Anderson................................Teacher/CounselorMarie Bell.......................................................AssistantJenna Bowen ………….…..…..………Elem Teacher

Curtis Church...........................................HS TeacherApril Everett…………………………ParaprofessionalSheila Glover......................................Spec. EducationBecky Graham……………………….…HS TeacherLaura Grantham....................................Nurse/TeacherShelly Griffin..........................................Elem TeacherElizabeth Hall ………………………ParaprofessionalChad Henninger……………………….…HS TeacherMatt Henry …………………………..Elem Teacher

Cindy Hess......................................PreK/KindergartenPatricia Ivey........................................ParaprofessionalMary Ann Kerl…………………………..HS TeacherJulie Rowland.........................................Elem TeacherPat Shannon............................................Elem TeacherWes Wood...…………………...….HS Teacher/Coach

FOOD AND DRINKS

All food and drinks should be consumed in the student lounge area. The classrooms are for instructional use only and therefore no food or drink shall be allowed unless approval is obtained through the principal’s office.

GUIDANCE SERVICE

The purpose of the Pittsburg School Guidance Program is to assist the individual to make decisions and adjustments in the light of his/her own interest, abilities, and levels of aspirations.

ENROLLMENT

Students may be admitted to Pittsburg School upon presentation of a birth certificate, or a transcript from an accredited elementary school, middle school, junior high school or high school. Health records must be current and presented at enrollment time to be filed in the Principal’s Office. New students will report to the Principal’s office for enrollment. All schedule changes must be completed within the first three days of the semester. Class changes must have the approval of teachers involved, counselor, and building principal and secretaries.

BELL SCHEDULE

The first bell will ring at 8:00 a.m. This is a signal for students to get their class materials from lockers for their first class. At 8:05 a.m. the tardy bell will ring. Students should be in their scheduled class, seated and ready for class activities when this bell rings. Students will not loiter in the hallways before school or during lunch period. A student will be allowed to get a drink, go to the restroom or office with permission from person on duty

ATTENDANCE

The Pittsburg Board of Education believes that in order for students to realize their fullest potential from educational efforts, they should attend classes if at all possible, realizing that some absences may be beyond the student’s control.

A student will be re-admitted to class after an absence by obtaining an excused or unexcused admit from the principal or designate. All admits must be picked up before the first bell rings. Failure to do so will result in an unexcused tardy. An absence will be considered unexcused unless the school is contacted by the parent prior to the day of the absence, the day of the absence, or upon the return of the student to school.

An excused absence may be obtained as a result of:

1.) Illness or serious illness in the immediate family

2.) Death in the family or close relative

3.) Doctor or dental appointment

4.) Required court appearance

1.) Extenuating Circumstances or emergency (deemed necessary by Principal)

A student with an excused absence will be permitted to make up work missed but all work must be completed within three days upon return of the student.

A student with an unexcused absence may be permitted to make up the work at teacher's discretion.

A student may miss no more than nine days per semester and remain passing.

A student with more than six absences in a semester will report to detention for every absence exceeding six. (See detention policy).

A student who is tardy three times or more in a semester will report to detention. (See detention policy).

ATTENDANCE/ACTIVITY POLICY

The Pittsburg Board of Education believes that attendance in regularly scheduled classes is a key factor in student achievement. Thus, any absence from those classes represents an educational loss to the student. The Board recognizes, however, that the co-curricular program of the school also has an educational benefit. Therefore, it shall be the policy of this board to minimize absenteeism from regular classes while still providing students the opportunity to participate in co-curricular activities.

ATTENDANCE/ACTIVITIES POLICY (REGULATIONS)

In accordance with the policy of the Board of Education, the following regulations shall govern student attendance and activities within this public school system:

Students will be allowed a maximum of ten absences from each class period during the school year to participate in approved activities. Absences for activities that are of a state and national nature, as defined by the criteria of earned right to compete, shall not be considered an absence for the purpose of this regulation.

The following activities are not included in the above category. Therefore, absences caused by the participation shall be counted toward the maximum:

1.) Athlete contest other than OSSAA play-offs (includes initial qualification for play-offs for athletes and cheerleaders)

2.) Show and contest that are not defined as state contests

3.) Annual staff workshops

4.) Field trips sponsored by clubs or organizations that are not classified as academic field trips

5.) State, Vocational, or National Conventions for which no earned right to attend is required

6.) School related community activities.

The following activities will not be counted against the permissible ten day absence regulations:

1.) Academic classroom field trips

2.) OSSAA sponsored state play-offs that require earned qualification to participate

3.) Assemblies that are school sponsored and required

4.) School pictures

5.) Class meetings

6.) Participation in school approved testing programs

7.) State band, chorus, and speech contests

8.) Scholastic contests

9.) 4-H state shows and state fairs. To be eligible, however, students must have an entry to the show/fair.

10.) Legislative page

11.) There is no activities absence if a student is enrolled in an activity class and is away from school during the time the class is scheduled.

STUDENT ACTIVITY ATTENDANCE (REGULATIONS)

In accordance with the policy of the Board of Education, the following shall govern student attendance:

1.) School Activity: These are extra-curricular whether sponsored by the school or outside agency, which removes the student from the class more than half of the class period.

2.) The total number of student activity absences allowed from any one-class period, without permission from the Internal Review Committee shall be ten.

3.) Once a student has had ten activity absences from any one-class period, the student may be reported to the Principal’s office for consideration for further absences.

The internal Review Committee consists of the following people:

A. Representative of the Principal

B. Representative of the Athletic Department

C. Representative of the Classroom Teachers

D. School Counselor

The criterion continuing beyond the ten-day absence limit shall be as follows:

A. A student must have a letter grade of a “B” or better in the subject he/she wants to miss.

B. Before a student is given permission to be absent beyond the ten day limit, even though he/she has a “B” or better, his record must show that his grade was not adversely affected by the previous ten days of absence and he/she has turned in all required work missed on previous days not in class.

The policy of the Board of Education does not set a maximum number of absences to be allowed per student. However, unreasonable request upon the committee for exemption will not be considered.

TARDIES

Tardiness for any reason should be kept to the bare minimum. If a student is tardy three or more times in a semester, he/she will report to detention for each tardy over the two tardy limit. A student will also be counted absent for every three tardies in a semester.

TRUANCY

Truancy is being defined as being absent from school one or more class periods without parent/guardian knowledge or permission; or being absent without proper excuse from his/her assigned place, or leaving school without properly checking out through the Principal’s office. Students who are truant may be disciplined according to the school discipline policy.

GENERAL PROCEDURE

Students that do not ride the bus should not come on school grounds before 8:00 a.m., as a teacher’s supervision will not be available until that time.

No student should be permitted to leave school grounds at any time without written permission from their parents and the administration.

Students will not be permitted to ride any bus except the one assigned, unless parents make a written request.

Elementary students will not be permitted to go on the high school grounds at any time without permission from a teacher.

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

All Pittsburg School students will have a signed parent permission form on file in order to access the Internet. Failure to abide by the school internet policy will result in detention, suspension, or any other disciplinary action deemed necessary by the principal.

School media is an integral part of education. Therefore, all Pittsburg school students will also have a signed parental permission form on file in order for said student to have his/her voice, physical presence, participation in

activities, awards, etc., transmitted via school media (i.e. school website, yearbook, newspaper, etc.)

COMPUTER LAB POLICYIn an effort to avoid problems in our school computer labs, we are implementing a policy that will hold our students more accountable. Each student will sign in at a computer using an individual username and password. Every time a student enters a computer lab they will use the same computer. By doing so, we can monitor the internet sites the students access. If any inappropriate sites are accessed we can determine which student was responsible and at what time it took place. Our computer servers are equipped with a filtering service that notifies us of any inappropriate web use. If a student is caught on a website that is deemed inappropriate there will be consequences. These consequences will range from lose of computer privileges to suspension. These consequences will be at the discretion of the administration. Thank you for your support and cooperation.

VISITORS

Parents are welcome to visit our school any time, but must stop by the office before going to the classroom. This is a protective measure for the student. Students are not allowed to bring children as visitors to the school.

CLOSED CAMPUS

No pupil shall leave school except by permission from the Principal or Superintendent. Such permission shall be given in case of sickness or any situation deemed absolutely necessary by the administration.

HALL PASS

Students are not permitted in the halls during classes without a hall pass issued by the teacher. Teachers have been instructed to issue hall passes only in extreme cases.

COLLEGE PREPARATION(Recommended, but NOT required)

REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

English-4 units; Mathematics-3 units; Science-3units; Social Studies-3 units; Electives-9 units; TOTAL-24 units for graduation.

HIGH SCHOOL HONOR SOCIETIES-HONOR ROLLS

The ten percent (10%) of the student body in grades 9-12 making the highest average marks in the school may be nominated for the Oklahoma Honor Society. A certificate of membership for each person eligible will be rewarded.

An Honor Roll is established each grading period for students making all “A’s” during the grading period (Superintendent’s Honor Roll) and for those making no grade lower than a “B” for the grading period (Principal’s Honor Roll).

BUS RIDER RULES

Riding a school bus is a privilege and the privilege may be denied if the student does not abide by the bus rider rules.

Previous to boarding the bus, students should:

1.) Be on time at the designated school bus stops - keep the bus on schedule

2.) Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus

3.) Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to enter

4.) Be careful in approaching the bus stops

5.) Do not move toward the bus at the school loading zones until the bus has been brought to a complete stop

6.) Respect people and their property while waiting on the Bus

7.) Receive proper school official authorization to be discharged at places other than the regular stops

While on the bus, students should:

1.) Keep all parts of the body inside the bus

2.) Refrain from eating or drinking on the bus

3.) Refrain from the use of any form of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs

4.) Assist in keeping the bus safe and clean at all times

5.) Remember that loud talking and laughing or unnecessary confusion diverts the driver’s attention and may result in a serious accident

6.) Treat bus equipment as you would valuable furniture in your own home. You will be responsible for any intentional damage.

7.) Never tamper with the bus or any of its equipment

8.) Maintain possessions of books, lunches, or other articles and keep the aisle clear

9.) Help look after the safety and comfort of small children

10.) Do not throw objects in or from the bus

11.) Remain in seats while the bus is in motion

12.) Refrain from horseplay and fighting

13.) Be courteous to fellow pupils and the bus driver

14.) Remain quiet when approaching a railroad crossing

15.) Remain in the bus during road emergencies except when it may be hazardous to passenger’s safety

After leaving the bus:

1.) Go at least ten feet in front of the bus, stop, check traffic, wait for bus driver’s signal, then cross the road.

2.) Go home immediately, staying clear of traffic.

3.) Help look after the safety and comfort of small children

Extra-curricular trips:

1.) The above rules and regulations should apply to all trips under school sponsorship

2.) Sponsors will be appointed by the school officials

We ask each parent to support and assist our efforts to insure a safe and healthy atmosphere for each student that rides a bus. We are all aware that good discipline is the first step to acquiring these two goals.

1.) First referral will mean a student conference

2.) Second referral will mean a student-parent conference (written or verbal)

3.) Third referral will mean a ten day loss of bus privileges

4.) Fourth referral will mean loss of bus riding privileges for one semester of the school year.

Bus riding privileges may be denied at the discretion of the principal and/or superintendent.

LOST AND FOUND

The principal’s office maintains a lost and found as a convenience for those students who have misplaced any of their personal belongings. These items will be kept in the office until two weeks after school is dismissed in May.

TRANSPORTATION

It is the desire of the administration and the faculty to give all the protection possible to the students of the school. Consequently all students are urged to participate in the school transportation program.

Students bringing any type of motor vehicle to school will leave it parked along the north rail (on Heard St.) until school is dismissed that day. Permission may be obtained from the office for the student to use the vehicle in case of emergency. In such case, the student will be issued approval from the office. Students will not be permitted to go to or sit in vehicles at any time during the day.Students must be 16 years of age and have a valid drivers license to drive/park on school property.

Vehicles are to be locked to prevent damage to interior or theft of equipment.

Students may not go to their vehicle or motorbike without permission from the office.

Violation of the above regulations may lead to loss of privilege of driving own vehicles to school and may lead to suspension from school.

STUDENT’S USE OF TELEPHONE, CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Students will not be called to the telephone during class or excused from class to use the telephone except in cases of emergency. Messages will be taken by the office and delivered to the student before they leave school. Students are not permitted to make phone calls without the approval of the principal.

Students are not allowed to use any type of cell phones, paging devices, or other electronic devices on school grounds during school hours. If a student is found to have a cell phone or paging device in his/her possession, punishment will be as follows:

1 st offense = The cell phone or other electronic device will be taken away and given back to the student at the end of the school day.

2 nd offense = The cell phone or other electronic device will be taken away and will only be returned to a parent/guardian.

3 rd offense = The cell phone or other electronic device will be taken away and the student will be suspended for a minimum of three days.

SCHOOL COUNSELORStudents wishing to visit the counselor should make an appointment either before school or between classes. At the time the appointment is made, a pass will be given to the student indicating the time the student should be

excused from class. The teacher may excuse the student from class if appointment does not conflict with an important class assignment or test.

GRADING

Grading will be consistent with the grading scale listed below. Grading periods end approximately each nine weeks on Friday, with report cards issued to students the third school day following the test.

GRADES 3-12 GRADE POINT

GRADING SCALE EQUIVALENT 100-90=A 4.0

89-80=B 3.0 79-70=C 2.0 69-60=D 1.0 Below 60 =F 0.0

GRADES PK-2GRADING SCALE S – SatisfactoryN –Needs ImprovementU - Unsatisfactory

DEFICIENCY INFORMATIONParents and students will be given 24 hour access to grades using Wengage Gradebook system. Both parties will be issued individual username and password access.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS AND CONDUCTThe Pittsburg Board of Education and the administration and faculty are deeply interested in creating a learning atmosphere in the schools.

Pittsburg student’s standard of conduct will include acceptable language, respect for others and their property, obedience to all rules and regulations, appropriate dress and any other standards deemed necessary by Pittsburg Schools to improve its social and academic climate.

The standards will prevail while students are on school premises, riding school buses, attending any school sponsored activity, or while in transit to and from school.

Pittsburg students attending extra-curricular activities that involve our school should always remember that his/her conduct speaks for self, family and

school. Each student is asked and expected to be on his/her best behavior at these events whether at home or away.

PITTSBURG SCHOOL DISCIPLINE POLICYThe school’s primary goal is to educate, not discipline. However, when the behavior of an individual student comes in conflict with the rights of others, corrective actions are necessary for the benefit of the individual and of the school.

In recognition of the fact, the Oklahoma Legislature has amended O.S. 6-114 to read as follows: Each local Board of Education shall adopt a policy for the control and discipline of all children attending public schools in that district. The local policy shall provide options for the control and discipline of the students. The parent or guardian of every child residing within a school district shall be notified by the local Board of Education of its adoption of the policy and shall receive it upon request. Provided, the teacher of a child attending a public school shall have the same right as a parent or guardian to control and discipline such child according to local policies during the time the child is in attendance or in transit to or from the school or any other school function authorized by the school district or classroom presided over by the teacher.

The goal of any disciplinary policy should be to correct the misconduct of the individual and to promote adherence by that student and by other students to the policies and regulations of the district.

Administrative response to student misconduct is a matter directly influencing the morals of the entire student body. As such, all students should be treated in a fair and equitable manner. Disciplinary action should be based on a careful assessment of the circumstances surrounding each infraction (i.e. the student’s attitude, the seriousness of the offense and its potential effect in other students).

In administering discipline, consideration should be given to alternative methods of punishment to insure that the most effective discipline is administered in each case. In all disciplinary actions, the administration should be mindful of the fact that they are dealing with individual personalities. The administration should consider consultation with parents on disciplinary measures that might prove most effective in particular instances.

Nothing in this discipline schedule shall be construed to deny the student’s right to fair and orderly hearings, appeals, counsel and due process in cases that may end in suspension.

This schedule shall be interpreted by the principal and designees in a manner that they deem just, given the circumstances of the individual case. Additionally, administrators shall have the authority to enforce other reasonable disciplinary action that they find warranted by a situation not covered in the disciplinary action schedule.

INFRACTIONSLevel I:

1.) Unexcused tardiness2.) Disruption of class or assembly3.) Lunchroom misconduct4.) Dress code violations5.) Violation of bus rules

Level II:1.) Cutting class2.) Leaving school without permission3.) Truancy4.) Use of Profanity5.) Excessive Absences

Level III:1.) Theft 2.) Assault – physical or verbal – or willful disobedience –

profanity or vulgarity3.) Fighting or violent actions4.) Destruction of property5.) Other offenses - possession of deadly weapons, fireworks,

drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vulgar material, etc.6.) Open or persistent defiance of authority

DISCIPLINE SCHEDULEThe numbers below refer to the code numbers cited above.

LEVEL I1st Violation1, 12

2nd Violation1, 2, 5, 12

3rd Violation2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12

LEVEL II1st Violation1, 2, 5, 12

2nd Violation2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12

3rd Violation2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11,12

LEVEL III1st Violation2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 11,

2nd Violation2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11,

3rd Violation7, 8, 10, 11, 12

12 12

DISCIPLINARY ACTION SCHEDULE

Code Numbers1.)Warn students (written)2.)Advise parents3.)Remove from class or group (temporary or permanent)4.)Parental conference5.)Detention6.)Review committee, composed of teachers and principal who know the

student and who will review the record and render a written recommendation.

7.)Financial restitution8.)Involve law enforcement9.)Refer to other social agencies10.) Suspension11.) Any other disciplinary action deemed appropriate under the

circumstances.12.) Principal’s discretion

A student, parent, or guardian may appeal a suspension in the following manner:

1.) By written request to the building principal within three days of this notice.

2.) If the issue is not resolved at the building principal level, you may appeal to the Superintendent of Schools by making a written request to him within three days after the principal hearing, specifying the reason or reasons for the appeal.

3.) If the issue is not resolved at the Superintendent level, you may appeal to the Board of Education by making a written request to them within five days of the Superintendent hearing, specifying the reason or reasons for the appeal. The decision of the Board of Education will be final.

The following are some specific examples of unacceptable behavior that are subject to disciplinary action, including detention or suspension from school:

a. open or persistent defiance of authority b. assault upon a student or school personnelc. creating or attempting to create a disturbance d. unauthorized absence from classes

e. excessive tardiesf. willful disobedience, profanity or vulgarityg. showing disrespect for school property or causing damage to school propertyh. possession, or use of any dangerous or annoying instrument

including, but not limited to, firearms, explosives, fireworks, knives or other weapons used for assault

i. the distribution, possession of use of illegal drugs, alcohol or any intoxicating substance will be sufficient cause for permanent suspension

j. stealing or extortionk. inappropriate or distracting dressl. any violation of state or local law or ordinance occurring on

school propertym. intentional blocking of corridors or hallwaysn. individual or group violenceo. distribution of material or literature on school property which

has not been approved by the school Superintendentp. no electronic devices will be allowed such as cell phones, pagers, hand-held games, radios, IPODS, etc. without consent of the principalq. all drinks permitted by the teacher in class must be in a clear container, and covered.

STUDENT DETENTION POLICY GRADES 7-12Detention can be held all day or after school at the discretion of the principal. The student will report to the detention area at the required time.Rules for detention:

1.)No talking.2.)No sleeping.3.)Detention will not be used as a Study Hall. The student will bring an

assignment and will be expected to complete the assignment within the time frame. If a student does not attempt to complete the assignment within the time allotted, the student will be issued an additional detention.

4.)If a student receives more than three detentions in a nine week period, the student will automatically be suspended for a period of no less than three but no more than five days.

5.)If a student violates detention rules or does not attend detention, the detention for that day will double. Any further violation of detention rules or missed detention will result in suspension. The teacher will notify the parent by phone or letter (if applicable time) when a student is to serve detention.

If a student serves ten or more days detention, it is apparent this type of discipline has not achieved the desired behavior. At this point the detention

instructor, school counselor, principal, student and parent will meet to discuss alternatives with the possibility of student expulsion.

LIBRARY1.)Students may check out a book for two weeks.2.)No student may have more than two books checked out at one time.3.)A fine of five cents per day will be charged on over-due books

(elementary not included.)4.)Students owing fines will not be allowed to check out a second book

until their fines are paid.5.)If a book is lost or damaged, the person responsible must replace the

book.6.)The library will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. each day.7.)Encyclopedias and reference books may be checked out for an hour at

a time. They may not be taken home at any time.

TRANSFER STUDENTSStudents who come to Pittsburg as transfer students are welcome to receive the advantages of educational opportunities offered by the school. A transfer student cannot receive another transfer if he/she fails to make the proper adjustment for a well-balanced citizen.

STUDENT INITIATIONAll students have the right to attend Pittsburg High School without threat of personally degrading and/or potentially dangerous initiation “pranks.” Consequently, “initiation” of one student by another student or group of students will in no way be tolerated.

UNDUE FAMILIARITYIt is assumed all students will have sufficient personal pride and observe standards of ethical behavior in school. The school halls and school grounds are public places; therefore, it is expected our students will use discretion in boy-girl relationships. Undue familiarity is considered in poor taste and will not be condoned. Students who persist in such practices will be referred to the principal. If necessary, the parents will be called in for conference.

BULLYING, HAZING, AND HARASSMENTIt is the policy of this school district that no student or employee of the district shall participate in or be members of any secret fraternity or secret organization that is in any degree related to the school or to a school activity.

No student will be subject to bullying, hazing, harassment, or any other form of persecution by students or employees whether connected to any fraternity organization or not.

For the purpose of this policy, hazing is defined as the deliberate harassment of a student by means of rough practical jokes or causing the student to perform meaningless, difficult, or humiliating tasks.

For the purpose of this policy, violence is defined as any word, look, sigh, or acts that hurt a person’s body, feelings, or things.

For the purpose of this policy, bullying is defined as a type of violence that occurs when someone uses his or her power unfairly and repeatedly to hurt someone else. This policy is not intended to deprive school district authorities from taking necessary and appropriate disciplinary action toward any student or employee. Students or employees who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include expulsion for students and employment termination for employees. A copy of this policy will be furnished to each student in this school district. REFERENCE: 21 O.S. Sec. 190

TOBACCO/VAPEThe State of Oklahoma and Pittsburg Schools prohibited the possession or use of tobacco/vape in any form on the school ground or while involved in any school activity. The failure of a student to abide by State Law and Pittsburg School policy will result in the following penalties:

FIRST VIOLATION: Two days suspension for the use of tobacco; Possession, two days detention.

SECOND VIOLATION: Three days suspension for the use of tobacco; Possession, three days detention.

THIRD VIOLATION: Four days suspension for use of tobacco; Possession four days detention.

DRESS CODE – STUDENTThe student’s dress code is based upon the premise of recognizing fashion without sacrificing decency, safety, and general taste. Students should dress properly. Taking into account current weather conditions. Any attire, which disrupts the educational process, is prohibited

1.)Students are not permitted to wear pajamas, halter tops, bare midriffs, backless garments, tube tops, muscle shirts, tank tops, or mesh shirts unless a t-shirt is underneath.

2.) No offensive writing or suggestive slogans, or logos on any article of clothing, belt buckles, or jewelry will be allowed. Logos pertaining to any illegal substance, intoxicating substance or tobacco is expressly prohibited.

3.)Students must wear shoes.

4.) All headgear is prohibited inside buildings.5.) Bandannas are not permitted.6.) Non-prescription dark glasses (sunglasses) are prohibited.7.) Proper undergarments should be worn at all times.8.) No mini or short skirts allowed.9.) Length of shorts must be no more than five inches above the knee.10.) Stretch pants will not be allowed without a proper length shirt.11.) Clothing ripped or torn above the knee will not be allowed.12.) Wind suits and sweat suits will be permitted. (Note: sweat suits

must be appropriate size and have drawstring.) 13.) Earrings are to be worn in the ear, within reason. Any other place

is an educational distraction and the student will remove it immediately.

14.) No jewelry is allowed while participating in athletes.

The principal’s and/or teacher discretion will judge questionable attire .

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCEParents are welcome to visit the school at any time. Parents who desire to confer with a teacher should first secure permission from the principal’s office. There will also be scheduled p/t conferences throughout the school year. See the school calendar for these scheduled dates & times.

Periods from 7:50 - 8:00 a.m. and from 3.20 – 3:30 p.m. have been reserved for other special conferences with teachers. These periods have been set aside so that a teacher will not be interrupted from his/her important duty of instruction.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAMSAll students are urged to participate in the school breakfast and lunch program. Menus are planned by the food service director according to the state nutrition requirements and students’ preference. Food and drink may not be taken from the cafeteria. All students will be provided Breakfast, Lunch and Supper free of charge.

LOCKERS – GRADES 5-12Students will be issued lockers at the time of enrollment. It is unwise to leave valuables or money in lockers. Any locker trouble should be reported to the principal. Each student will be held responsible for the condition of the locker assigned to him/her. All lockers should be kept free of marks, writing, and waste paper. Lockers are subject to inspection at any time.

ACTIVITY CALENDARTo eliminate conflict, an official calendar is maintained by the High School Principal. All school activities must be scheduled on this calendar five school

days prior to the event. Sponsors and student officers are urged to schedule all activities as early in the year as possible.

FIRE DRILLSPractice fire drills will be held early in the school year and there will be drills from time to time throughout the year. Complete instructions will be given to each teacher concerning the procedure to be followed by each student.

TORNADO DRILLSFrom time to time during the tornado season, there will be tornado drills.

ADVERSE WEATHERThere may be times when school will be dismissed because of bad weather. At such times, announcements of dismissal will be broadcast on radio stations KTMC (AM 1400), KNED (AM 1150), and KMCO (FM 101), as well as posted on the school website www.pittsburg.k12.ok.us and message will be delivered on ONE CALL NOW system.

STUDENT LEADERSHIPAny student who accepts the responsibility of a leadership role in Pittsburg School, including class officer, organizational office, or other position of leadership, must have maintained a 2.5 grade point average during the previous and present semester. A student must be in good standing with teachers and school officials to remain eligible to serve.

PROMOTION OR RETENTIONPromotion or retention of each student shall rest primarily with the teacher(s) who is/are responsible for the student’s education. When teacher(s) become aware that the possibility exists that retention of the student would be in his/her best interest, the parent and building principal should be notified immediately and reasons given for the retention. These may be verbal or written.

Retention of a student should be made as early in a student’s school life as possible. Some factors that should be taken into consideration are mental maturity, physical size, attitude, emotional maturity, social progress, school environment and home environment.

No student shall be advanced to a higher-grade level after a recommendation of a teacher that the child should be retained in the child’s present grade level unless a parent or guardian signs a written request for such advancement and it is approved by the local board of education.

Beginning with the 2013-2014 school year, all 3rd grade students must pass the Reading portion of the proficiency-based tests. All 3rd grade students that do not pass the Reading test will automatically be retained.

PROFICIENCY BASED TESTING AND PROMOTION POLICYBeginning with the 2005-2006 school year, upon the request of a student, parent or guardian, a student will be given the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in the Learner Outcomes; Competencies. Proficiency will be demonstrated by criterion reference tests.

Students demonstrating proficiency in a set of competencies at the 90% level shall be advanced to the next level of study in the appropriate curriculum area(s). This decision will take into consideration such factors as social, emotional, physical and mental growth. The school will confer with parents in making such promotional/acceleration decisions. Elementary, Middle Level, or High School students may demonstrate proficiency in the Learner; State Competencies for 9-12 High School curriculum areas. Appropriate notation will be placed on the high school transcript. The unit shall count toward meeting the requirements for the high school diploma.

School officials must be notified in writing of which tests a student intends to take at least weeks in advance.

SENIOR TRIP – CLASS FUNDRAISERSThe Senior Class will be permitted three school days for a senior trip. This trip will require administrative approval.

1. The Senior Class may elect to take two college days, one each semester. These trips will be one day each and will require administrative approval, and will be no later than the last ten days of each semester.

2. A move-in student will have the same obligations as one who has spent all four years at Pittsburg High School.

3. Beginning with the ninth grade, sponsors will inform each student of his/her amount of obligation to the class fundraiser. This record will follow the student through high school. Any senior going on the senior or educational trip must have fully met his/her financial obligation to his/her class.

4. To qualify for the senior or educational trip, the student must be in good standing with Pittsburg School.

5. The senior student must have actively participated in all available fundraisers including preparation, activity, and clean-up.

6. Class fundraisers: Must be approved by the administration and the Board of Education.

7. Any change to these regulations will require sponsor and administrative approval.

8. Points 1-7 above are at the discretion of the principal/superintendent.

SCHOOL PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENTSCHOOL LAWS OF OKLAHOMA SECTION 644, DAMAGES TO PROPERTY LIABILITY OF PARENTS. The state of any county, city, town, municipal corporation or school district, or any person, corporation or organization shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not to exceed one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) in a court

or competent jurisdiction from the parents of any minor under the age of eighteen years, living with the parents at the time of the act, who shall commit any criminal or delinquent act resulting in bodily injury to any person or damage to or larceny of any property, real personal or mixed,

belonging to the state or a county, city, town municipal corporation, school district, person, corporation or organization.

IMMUNIZATIONS“What should you know about your child’s immunization”

Parents: THIS MESSAGE IS URGENT!Contact your family physician or your local health department:

Pittsburg County Health Department1400 E College Ave.

McAlester, OK 74501Phone: (918) 423-1267

Routine immunizations are given daily from 8:00-11:30 a.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

The following requirement must be met before your child will be admitted to the school this fall.

HERE ARE THE FACTS:

WHO: The law applies to all minor children attending all public, parochial, or private schools in the State of Oklahoma.

WHAT: A certificate, preferable ODH Form 218 B (Immunization’ Card), must be signed by a licensed physician or an authorized representative of a State or local health department, certifying that a child has completed no less than: five (5) DPT/TD, four (4) polio, two (2) MMR, three (3) Hepatitis B, two (2) Hepatitis A, and one (1) Varicella.

WHEN: Don’t delay…Start today? Some immunizations must be given in 4-6 week intervals to complete the series. All students must be in full compliance of this law within 120 days of school entry.NOTE: In some cases, because of possible physical harm to the child or religious beliefs, the requirement of this law may be waived, ONLY by using ODH Form 216A.

What Oklahoma Statues govern school admission immunization requirement? Title 70, Section 1210.101 OK Statues, 1970: “Rules and regulations for Immunization for School Children”, as amended June 1976.

What does this law require? The law requires that the parents or guardians of all minor children in grades K-12 for all public, parochial or private schools in the State of Oklahoma, to present a certificate or required immunization upon school entry.

What vaccines and how many doses of each are required by law? The law requires that all children receive no less than: five (5) DPT/TD, four (4) polio, two (2) MMR, three (3) Hepatitis B, two (2) Hepatitis A, and one (1) Varicella.

What is an acceptable certification of immunization? The official certification or immunization card, ODH 218B, is distributed by the acceptable only if they have the type and date of immunization given. The signature of a licensed physician or authorized representative of the State or local health department is required.

What are the exemptions of the immunization required by law? Medical contradiction, religious objections, or parental objections.

What record must be kept on file at school? Each public, parochial, and private school shall maintain a permanent record, preferably a cumulative health record, ODH Form 216, showing the type and date of each immunization; then a signed physician statement that required immunizations were received must be kept in the school file.

What is the school’s responsibility when a child is presented for admittance without a certificate of adequate immunization? All minor children applying for admission to any Oklahoma school, who has not completed the required immunizations must be informed of the necessary requirements and complete those requirements within 120 days upon school entry.

What is the school’s responsibility for enforcing this immunization law? It is the duty of school authorities to enforce this law, by admitting only those students who have completed all immunizations required. Any student that is

not adequately immunized within 120 days of school entry date will be subject to dismissal from school until immunizations are completed.

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS & OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS

Prescription drugs or any form of medicine taken at school must be taken to the Principal’s or Nurse’s office. Students must have a medication form signed by the parent or guardian on file.

SELECTION CRITERIA FORVALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN

The Valedictorian-Salutatorian will be selected on a point system. A student must have at least a 3.0 grade point average to be eligible for Valedictorian-Salutatorian. This system shall be based upon a point basis: A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0.

1. The points will be based on 1st and 2nd semester grades for 5th, 6th, and 7th grades, and 1st semester of 12th grade for high school.

2. In case of ties, Co-Valedictorians and/or Co-Salutatorians will be named.

3. A student must complete the last three (3) semesters of work at Pittsburg School to be eligible.

STUDENT TESTINGParents, Pittsburg Schools administer achievement tests yearly to assist in determining how each student’s academic achievement compares to other students in Oklahoma and the U.S. We would greatly appreciate your stressing the importance of this test to your child and assuring his/her attendance at school on the days selected to give the test.

Students, achievement tests are given so that each student can see his/her percentiles rank with other students in his/her class and nation-wide. Each student should exert all his/her efforts to do the very best on these tests. Anything less does not show a valid result.

Test results are strictly confidential, and should not be embarrassing to anyone who does his/her best.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITESStatement of Rights and Responsibilities:a. The Pittsburg School Board of Education adopted a policy of State

Rights and Responsibilities for students in full compliance with Title V of the Federal Education Amendments of 1975.A printed pamphlet on Statement of Rights and Responsibilities is distributed to each student. The policies in the pamphlet are present to

serve as information and administrative guidelines for school personnel, students, parents, and other citizens of the school district.

b. Some of the major rights, responsibilities, and limitations defined and discussed in the Statement of Rights and Responsibilities pamphlet are:

i. Criminal acts defined under the Laws of the State of Oklahoma.

ii. Attendanceiii. Conduct and behavior

1. Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974a. The Pittsburg Board of Education acknowledges and supports

the rights of the individual regarding education records of students, which are created, maintained, or used by its employees.

b. Further, because it is the intent of the Board to comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, the following general guidelines are established:

i. The education records of students who are or have been in attendance at Pittsburg Public School shall be made available for inspection and review, and for correction and deletion by the parent of such students.

ii. The education records (or personally identifiable information contained therein other than directory information of students) shall be released without the written consent of their parents, except to individual agencies or organizations that are specifically authorized under the Act.

iii. It shall be the policy of this Board to use reasonable means to inform the parents of students of the rights accorded to them by the Act.

Whenever a student has attained eighteen years of age, or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the permission or consent required of and the right accorded to the parents of the student shall thereafter only be required of and accorded to the student. If translation is needed it will be provided.

2. Education of Children Living on Indian LandsThe following policies and procedures relating to tribal and parental involvement in the education of children residing on Indian lands were approved by the Board of Education and shall be in effect in the Pittsburg Public Schools.

c. Children living on Indian land shall participate in school programs on an equal basis with all other children attending school in the Pittsburg School District. No teacher or program director is to exclude or limit participation in any district activity on the basis of race. Tribal officials and parents of

children living on Indian lands shall be given the opportunity to comment on the participation of Indian children on an equal basis in the school program with the other children educated by the Pittsburg School District.

d. A tribe or their designee, parent, or group of parents concerned with the education opportunity of any student or group of students in Pittsburg Public School District, may throughout the Superintendent’s office, be placed on the agenda of any open meeting of the Pittsburg School Board of Education.

3. Public Access to School Records

a. Statement of Policy: It shall be the policy of the Pittsburg Board of Education to comply fully with the provision of both the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and the Oklahoma Open Records Act to protect the right of privacy of students and their families in safeguarding its educational records and the personally identifiable information contained therein pertaining to students and their families from unauthorized public security as set forth elsewhere herein, rights of access to, and review of those school records authorized thereby.

b. Definitions

i. All documents, writing, written instruments, or media communication regardless of physical form created by, received by, under the authority of, or coming into the custody, control, or possession of the school district, its administrators and employees in connection with the transaction of public school business, the expenditure of publicschool funds or the administering of public school property except those which are specifically excluded or permitted to be excluded or kept confidential by the Act or other provision of law.

ii. “Public Body” shall mean the school district, the board of education, and all committees or subcommittees.

iii. “Public Official” shall mean any official or employee of the school district.

iv. “Designated Public Official” shall mean the chief administrative assistant to the Superintendent of Schools.

v. “Act” shall mean the Oklahoma Open Records Act.c. Responsibility to Maintain Records: It shall be the responsibility of

the school district and the public officials thereof to maintain complete records of the receipt and expenditure of any public funds, reflecting all financial and business transactions, the administering of school property, both business and personnel affairs of its officials, administrators and employees, and the academic affairs and extra-curricular activities of its students.

d. Accessibility to Records: Records, as defined herein shall be readily accessible to the general public for inspection, copying or mechanical reproduction during regular business hours upon those conditions required herein.

i. All requests for access shall be in written form and submitted to the designated public official at the central administration office not less than twenty-four (24) hours prior to production of the recorded sought to be inspected, copied, or reproduced.

ii. The place for such inspection, copying or reproduction of records shall be the central administration office of the school district unless otherwise authorized by the designated public official.

iii. Prior to copying or reproduction of any records, any fees established for that purpose or any applicable fees for searching for such records must be paid by the person or agency requesting the same.

iv. Any inspection of records performed by the person or agency requesting access or any copying or reproduction of such records shall be performed in such manner as will insure the integrity and security of said records and in such manner as will not disrupt or unnecessarily interfere with the orderly conduct of the usual business of the school district or its public officials.

v. Access to records dealing with students and their families shall be strictly limited to statistical information not identified with a particular student and directory. Information as defined in the Act, but only after public notice of what shall constitute such directory information and then only after notice to the students’ parent or guardian, with reasonable opportunity to respond, informing the school district that such information should not be released without the parent’s or guardian’s prior consent.

e. Fees:i. A fee for copying or the reproduction of records shall be

established by the designated records shall be established by the designated public official that shall not be more than is reasonably necessary to defray the expense of the same and shall not be less than fifteen cents per copy.

ii. A fee for the search of records that is not conducted in the public’s interest, as determined by the designated public official, shall be established thereby at a rate which is not more than will reasonably defray necessary expense of such search and which shall be less than six dollars per hour.

NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX, RACE, OR NATURAL ORIGIN

The Pittsburg School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, or national origin in the educational programs or activities that it operates. It is required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, as amended and Part 86 or Title 45, Subtitle A.

Rules and Regulations of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, not to discriminate in such a manner.The requirement to discriminate in educational programs and activities extends to employment in the School District.Inquiries concerning the application or Title IX and Part 86 may be referred to the Principal or directly to H.E.W.

STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURESAny student who believes he/she has been treated unfairly or discriminated against because of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or qualified handicap, may proceed according to the following procedures without fear of reprisal:The student should discuss the grievance with his/her teacher.

1. If a satisfactory solution is not reached the student should submit a written grievance to the Superintendent, and the Title VI/IX/504 Coordinator, stating the nature of the grievance. The grievance should be filed ten (10) days (excluding holidays, Saturday s, and Sundays).

2. The Title VI/IX/504 Coordinator will notify and schedule within ten (10) days, a hearing with the student. The VI/IX/504 Coordinator will issue a decision or solution with ten (10) school days of the hearing.

3. If the student requests further appeal, the student should notify the Title VI/IX/504 Coordinator within ten (10) school days. The Title VI/IX/504 Coordinator will notify the Superintendent. The Title VI/IX/504 Coordinator will schedule a hearing with the student and the Superintendent within twenty (20) school days. The Superintendent will issue a final decision to the student within fifteen (15) days.

ANNUAL NOTIFICATIONWithin the first three (3) weeks of each year, the Pittsburg School District will notify parents and eligible students of their rights under the FERPA, by one or all of the following means:

1. A notice will be published in the McAlester News-Capitol and Democrat.

2. A letter will be sent home with all students.

A notice will be printed in the student handbooks distributed to parents and students at enrollment.This notice will include the following:Statement of rights: Parents and eligible students have the following rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and this policy:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education record.2. The right to exercise a limited control of other people’s access to

the student’s educational record.3. The right to seek to correct the student’s education record, in a

hearing if necessary.4. The right to report violation of the FERPA to the Department of

Health, Education an d Welfare.5. The right to be informed about FERPA rights.All rights and protection given parents under the FERPA and this policy transfers to the student when he/she reaches age eighteen or enrolls in a post-secondary school. The student then becomes an “eligible student.”

LOCATIONS/CUSTODIANS OF EDUCATION RECORDS1. Cumulative school records (present and former students) are

located in each principal’s office and/or counselor’s office. Custodians for these records are the school principal and/or counselor.

2. Health records are located in the principal’s office and/or custodian for these records is the school principal.

3. School transportation records are located in principal’s office. The custodian for these records is the school’s principal.

4. Speech therapy records are located in the speech therapy office. The custodian for these records is the speech therapist.

5. (Active) Special education records, psycho-educational records, and special test records are located in each teacher’s classroom – Gifted-talented, LD, EMH, and TMH. The custodian for these records is the Special education teacher.

6. (Inactive) Special education records, psycho-educational records, and special test records are located in theprincipal’s office. The custodian for these records is the

school principal.7. Occasional records will be collected and made available at the

student’s school. Custodians for these records are the classroom teachers and/or school principals.

SCHOOL DANCESAll school dances held in school buildings shall be under the direction of the organization or class that sponsors the dance. School clubs and organization may hold dances in the school buildings for their membership and approved guests. Any group wishing to sponsor a dance must submit a request to its sponsor. The principal will give final approval.

The principal must approve all entertainment groups that are employed for school clubs and/or organizations. In each case the principal, sponsor, and president of the club or organization must sign a contract with musical groups.Dance rules to be observed for all dances held in school buildings are:

1. No student will be allowed to enter the dance any later than one hour after the dance begins.

2. After leaving, no student will be allowed to re-enter.3. Guests will be allowed only with a date from Pittsburg School.4. At least two sets of parents must attend each dance.5. All dances, except those held after ball games, will start at 8:00

p.m. and end at 11:00 p.m.6. There will be no smoking by students or adults at any dances.7. All dress will be school wear or better unless specified.

Each dance will employ a custodian to make sure facilities are left to the satisfaction of the building principal.

ELIGIBILITY TO REPRESENT PITTSBURG SCHOOL IN EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

When representing Pittsburg School, a student may attend or participate in any competitive or non-competitive extra-curricular activity ONLY when that student is in good standing. Examples: Students must not be on the ineligible list or suspended from school. Pittsburg High School is a member of the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association and is subject to the rules and regulations in regard to extra-curricular activities. The basic requirements that must be met are:

1. Parents must reside in the boundaries of the school district or acquire resident eligibility.

2. The student cannot be over age 19 (before September 1)3. Each student has four years of opportunity for participation

from date of enrollment in the ninth grade.4. Ineligibility will result regarding the following:

a. The student attended an out-of-state school, a private school, or another high school in which the parents did not reside during the last school year.

b. See Rule 3.Rule 3 – Scholastic Eligibility

Section 1. Semester Gradesa. A student must have received a passing grade in all subjects

he/she is enrolled in during the last semester he/she attended fifteen (15) or more days. Each student must have been enrolled in a minimum of four subjects accredited by the State Department of Education exclusive of physical education or athletics. Hereafter this provision will be referred to as the “Minimum Scholastics Standard.”

b. If a student does not meet the minimum scholastic standard he/she will not be eligible to participate during the first six (6) weeks of the next semester they attend.

c. A student who does not meet the minimum scholastic standard his/her eligibility by achieving passing grades in all subjects in which he/she is enrolled at the end of a one (1) week period.

Section 2. Student Eligibility During a Semestera. Scholastic eligibility for students will be checked at the end of the first week of

a semester and each succeeding week thereafter.b. If a student fails to meet the minimum scholastic standard at the end of a week,

they will be placed on probation for the next one-week period. If a student is failing to meet the minimum scholastic standard at the end of his/her probationary one-week period, ineligibility period will begin Monday and end on Sunday.

c. A student who has lost eligibility under this provision must achieve the minimum scholastic standard in order to regains eligibility under Rule 3 with the first class of the new one-week period (Monday through Sunday).

Section 3. Special Provisions a. A 12th grade student who is currently enrolled in high school and college must pass four subjects to maintain eligibility. These may be a combination of high school and college subjects equivalent to four high school units that are acceptable by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (physical education and athletics cannot be included in the four requirements). b. A student enrolling in a school for the first time must meet the OSSAA’s

scholastic requirements in Rule 3, Section 1-a. A student who is not eligible in one Oklahoma school will not be eligible at another Oklahoma for a minimum period of three (3) weeks (fifteen school days) he/she attends, if he/she moves or transfers. A student may regain his/her eligibility by achieving the scholastic standard in Rule 3, Section 1-a at the end of the three (3) week period.

c. Incomplete grades will be considered to be the same as failing grades in determining scholastic eligibility. School administrators are authorized to make an exception to this provision (Rule 3, Section 3-c) if grade was caused by an unavoidable hardship. (Examples of such hardship would be illness, injury, death in family, and natural disaster).

d. One summer school credit earned in an Oklahoma State Department of Education accredited program may be used to meet the requirements of Rule 3, Section 1-a for the end of the spring semester. A credit earned in summer school under this provision must be for the subject failed during the spring semester.

LETTERING FOR ATHLETICS 7-12Lettering for each sport will be left to the discretion of the coach of that sport.

Asbestos PolicyIn response to the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, P.L. 99-519, and EPA regulations, we have completed a three re-inspection of our buildings. As a result of our re-inspection concerning asbestos, we are pleased to announce that according to the asbestos management plan and architect statement Pittsburg Public School is asbestos free. The management plan (results of the re-inspection) will be available for your viewing during office hours Monday through Friday in the office of the Superintendent. Please call for an appointment.

CONCLUSIONThe purpose of this handbook is to aid you, the student, in planning your school work in such a way to insure your educational growth during your tenure at Pittsburg Elementary and High School.

This handbook is intended to help you. It holds the answers to many of the questions with which you will be concerned during the time you are in attendance in this school. Use the content of this nook to avoid error, confusion, and waste of time. The contents have been considered with a purely helpful attitude. It is recognized that change is necessary as time goes by. This should be thought of as a foundation program, and that from time to time, it must be built better and better. Your suggestions, cooperation, and constructive criticism are always welcome.

Sincerely,

Mr. Chad Graham, SuperintendentWes Wood, K-12 Principal

Pittsburg Public SchoolP.O. Box 200

Pittsburg, Oklahoma 74560918/432-5351

www.pittsburg.k12.ok.us

Detach and Return to School by October 01, 2020

PARENT CONSENT FORM

I acknowledge that I have read the Pittsburg School Student Handbook for the 2019-2020 school term and herby agree to abide by the school policies discussed herein.

(Student’s Signature)

I acknowledge that I have read the Pittsburg School Student Handbook for the 2019-2020 school term and agree to encourage my child/children/guardian to abide by the policies herein.

(Parent/Guardian Signature)