Graford ISD

High School

Junior High School

JACKRABBIT

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2008-2009

Message from the Administration-

We would like to take the opportunity to welcome all students to Graford Independent School District for the 2008-2009 school year. It is the goal and commitment of this administration, faculty, and staff to provide those learning opportunities and experiences which will enable you to take your place in our society as confident, successful and productive citizens.

The purpose of this handbook is to familiarize students and parents with the policies, rules, regulations, and activities of the local school environment. The local School Board, educators, parents, students and other concerned citizens working cooperatively can maintain a well-regulated school environment where maximum learning is the ultimate goal and end result.

School Administration

Chance Welch, Superintendent

400 West Division Street

Graford, Texas 76449

(940) 664-3101 (ext. 225)

Pat Narcomey, High School Principal

J. B. Littlejohn, Assistant Principal/Athletic Director

400 West Division Street

Graford, Texas 76449

(940) 664-3161 (ext. 222)

Board of Trustees

Mr. Jakie Long - President

Mr. Matt Biery - Vice-President

Mrs. Kay Lynn Bridges - Secretary

Mr. Mike Pendergraft - Member

Mr. Ronnie Ranft - Member

Mr. Eddie Laney - Member

Mrs. Brandi Larson - Member

Website: www.grafordisd.net

THE MISSION OF EDUCATION IN THE GRAFORD I.S.D.

The aim of the District shall be to give the students the best possible education that planning, experience, and effort can devise, by providing an effective school system in which there is strong instructional leadership and an orderly climate conducive to teaching and learning.

The function of the District shall be to provide a favorable and flexible environment that encourages a student to participate in democratic living and provides opportunities to engage in worthwhile activities. All students shall be expected to master essential academic skills, as taught in the core curriculum, and acquire a knowledge base on which to build lifelong learning. Students will be provided the opportunity to develop the ability to think logically, independently, creatively, and to communicate effectively. The formal program of instruction must be so flexible that each student will develop mentally, physically, morally, and socially in accordance with the student’s physical and mental structure.

The District shall foster a sense of pride in self, family, cultural background, and national heritage, while safeguarding respect for authority and the rights, beliefs, and property of others. Values such as courage, honesty, fairness, kindness, self-confidence, and self-discipline shall be taught.

A system that can accomplish this mission must provide instruction at the highest levels of quality, distribute educational opportunities and resources equitably, and maintain accountability for demonstrated results and continuous improvement.

CAMPUS MISSION

We believe that our school’s purpose shall be to give the students the best possible education that planning, experience, and effort can devise by providing an effective school system in which there is a combined effort by students, administration, teachers, parents, and the community and an orderly climate conducive to teaching and learning. We accept the responsibility of not only educating, but further developing social skills, self-esteem, good citizenship, and academic excellence for the students of Graford Independent School District.

CITIZENSHIP

THE AMERICAN CREED

I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people, whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed--a democracy in a republic, a sovereign state, a perfect union, one inseparable, established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.

I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies, for I am an American.

GRAFORD SCHOOL SONG

Graford Our Graford

Graford, your colors are gleaming

For every person to see;

To us you’re the best school ever,

Numerous your victories:

We’ll work and we’ll toil for achievement;

We’ll bring honor to your name.

Though we may change

Still you’ll be the same,

Our own dear school.

CHORUS

We love Graford, Graford

School that we love the best,

Graford, Graford

Way out in the ole’ west:

How we love thy school room memories,

Where we have learned so long,

Though we may leave,

To you we will cleave,

Our own dear school!

“THE STAR-SPANGLED BANNER’

O say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro’ the perilous fight

O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof thro’ the night that our flag was still there.

Oh say, does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.

TEXAS PLEDGE

Honor the Texas flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible.
PREFACE

To Students and Parents:

Welcome to school year 2008-09! For this year to be successful for your child, we must all work together: students, parents, teachers, and other school staff members.

The Graford Secondary Student Handbook is designed to provide a resource for some of the basic information that you and your child will need during the school year. In an effort to make it easier to use, the handbook is divided into three sections:

Section I—IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS—with information all parents will need about assisting their child and responding to school-related issues;

Section II—CURRICULUM-RELATED INFORMATION—to provide information to students and their parents about graduation programs, required courses, class rank, and extracurricular and other activities.

Section III—GENERAL INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS—describing school operations and requirements such as safety procedures, the dress code, and fees that may be charged.

Each section has a Quick Reference component to serve as a guide for day-to-day questions that may arise.

Please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.

Both students and parents must be familiar with the Graford ISD Student Code of Conduct, required by state law and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found as an attachment to this handbook.

The student handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy that affect student handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters and other communications.

In case of conflict between Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of student handbooks, the provisions of Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the Board are to be followed.

We strongly recommend that parents review the entire handbook with their children and keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the principal. Also, please complete and return the parental acknowledgment and consent/opt-out forms so that we have a record of your choices. [See Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights].

SECTION I
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

This section of the Graford Secondary Student Handbook includes information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.

QUICK REFERENCE:

· Parental involvement

· Grading period timelines

· Report cards/progress reports and conferences

· State-mandated assessment testing

· Other standardized testing: College Requirements

· Medicine at school

· Psychotropic drugs

· Student records

· Student or parent complaints and concerns

· Release of students from school

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Working Together

Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Your involvement in this partnership may include:

· Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides. Ensure that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects. Be sure your child comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn.

· Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child. If your child is entering ninth grade, review the requirements of the graduation programs with your child. Monitor your child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed. [See Academic Counseling and Academic Programs]

· Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at 940-664-3161 for an appointment. The teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or before or after school. [See Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences.]

· Offering to serve as a parent representative on the District-level or campus-level planning committees assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact Pat Narcomey.

· Attending Board meetings to learn more about District operations. [See policies BE and BED for more information.]

Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights

Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns:

· Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent.

· Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.

· Sexual behavior or attitudes.

· Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.

· Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship.

· Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.

· Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.

· Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For further information, see policy EF.]

“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities

As a parent, you also have a right to receive notice and request your child out of participating in:

· Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of funding.

· School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information gathered from your child for the purpose of marketing or selling that information.

· Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law. See policies EF and FFAA.

Display of your child’s artwork, projects, and other special work products:

As a parent, if you choose that your child’s artwork, special projects, photographs and the like not be displayed to the community on the District’s Web site, in printed material, by video, or any other method of communication, you must notify the principal in writing.

As a parent of a public school student, you also have a right:

· To request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers, including whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field of study of the certification or degree. You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide services to your child.

· To review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum and to examine tests that has been administered to your child.

· To inspect a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to your child.

· To review your child’s student records when needed. These records include:

· Attendance records,

· Test scores,

· Grades,

· Disciplinary records,

· Counseling records,

· Psychological records,

· Applications for admission,

· Health and immunization information,

· Other medical records,

· Teacher and counselor evaluations,

· Reports of behavioral patterns, and

· State assessment instruments that have been administered to your child.

(See Student Records).

· To grant or deny any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a videotape or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:

Ø When it is to be used for school safety;

Ø When it relates to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extracurricular activity; or

Ø When it relates to media coverage of the school.

· To remove your child temporarily from the classroom, if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.

· To request that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. The request must be in writing. State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required moment of silence or silent activity that follows. [See Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence, see policy EC.]

· To request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the Declaration of Independence. State law requires students in social studies classes in grades 3–12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week unless (1) you provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the District determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity. [See policy EHBK]

· To request in writing, if you are a non-custodial parent, that you be provided for the remainder of the school year a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to misconduct that may involve placement in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) or expulsion. See policies FL (LEGAL) and (LOCAL), FO (LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.

· To request a transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been verified by the Board of trustees to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus. See the principal for information.

· To request a transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the District if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child was a victim of a violent criminal offense while in school or on school grounds. See policy FDD (LOCAL).

REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES

Report cards with each student’s grades or performance and absences in each class or subject are issued to parents at least once every six weeks. At the end of the first three weeks of each six week grading period, parents will be given a written progress report if their child’s performance in any course.

If the student receives a grade lower than 70 in any class or subject during a 6 weeks grading period, it is recommended that the parent or guardian seek a conference with the teacher concerning the failing grade. [See Working Together on how to schedule a conference.]

Teachers follow grading guidelines approved by the principal that have been designed to reflect each student’s academic achievement for the grading period, semester, or course. Semester exams will be given to all students in grades 7-12. Semester exams will be comprehensive (cover material for that entire semester). This exam will count as 1/7 of the student’s semester grade. The student’s semester grade will be calculated using the following method. The six-week grades of the prior 3 grading periods will count twice and the final exam grade will count once (example: if the student had the following grades, 86 for the 1^st six-weeks, 92 for the 2^nd, 88 for the 3^rd, and a final exam grade of 84, the semester grade would be calculated as 86+86+92+92+88+88+84=616 then divide that 616 by 7 and the semester average would be 88%). If a student is exempt from the semester exam, the semester grade shall be determined by averaging the students’ 3 six-weeks averages.

To earn a full credit in a course or subject, a student must earn a minimum grade of 70% for the year based upon course or grade level requirements. The yearly grade for a student will be the average of the fall and spring semester grades, and the fall and spring semester grades that are used to earn the yearly grade can be earned in different academic years, in summer school, or other principal approved credit recovery programs. To earn the half-credit in a one semester class, a student must earn a minimum grade of 70% based on semester grading guidelines.

State law provides that a test or course grade issued by a teacher cannot be changed unless the Board determines that the grade was arbitrary or contains an error, or that the teacher did not follow the District’s grading policy. [See policy EIA.]

Questions about grade calculation should first be discussed with the teacher; if the question is not resolved, the student or parent may request a conference with the principal in accordance with FNG (LOCAL).

STATE-MANDATED ASSESSMENT TESTS

Students at certain grade levels will take state assessment tests (such as TAKS: the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) in the following subjects, as well as routine testing and other measures of achievement:

· Mathematics, annually in grades 3–7 without the aid of technology and, in grades 8–11, with the aid of technology on any assessment test that includes algebra

· Reading, in grades 3–9

· Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 and 7

· English language arts in grade 10

· Social studies in grades 8 and 10

· Science in grades 5, 8, and 10 [See note below.]

· Any other subject and grade required by federal law [See policy EKB.]

OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTING: COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS

Most colleges require either the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for admission. Students are encouraged to talk with the counselor early during their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; entrance exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year. (Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, most students must take an assessment test, such as the Texas Higher Education Assessment [THEA] test.)

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

District employees will not give a student prescription medication, nonprescription medication, herbal substances, anabolic steroids, or dietary supplements, with the following exceptions:

· Authorized employees, in accordance with policy FFAC, may administer:

· Prescription medication provided by the parent, along with a written request, and in the original, properly labeled container.

· Medication from a properly labeled unit dosage container filled by a registered nurse or another qualified District employee from the original, properly labeled container.

· Nonprescription medication provided by the parent along with a written request, and in the original, properly labeled container.

· Herbal or dietary supplements provided by the parent if required by the student’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan for a student with disabilities.

· In certain emergency situations, the District will maintain and administer to a student nonprescription medication, but only:

· In accordance with the guidelines developed with the District’s medical advisor and

· When the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency treatment on the District’s form.

A student with asthma who has written authorization from his or her parent and physician or other licensed health-care provider may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma medication at school or school-related events. The student and parents should see the school nurse or principal if the student has been prescribed asthma medication for use during the school day.

In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. See the school nurse for information.

STEROIDS

Parents and students should be aware that state law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use.

Under state law, body building, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid or human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminal offense.

PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS

Teachers and other District employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they will not recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A District employee who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse practitioner, a physician, or a certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate.

“Psychotropic drug” means a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication and intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior. It is commonly described as a mood- or behavior-altering substance.

[For further information, see policies at FFAC.]

STUDENT RECORDS

Both federal and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and “eligible” students certain rights. For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.

The law specifies that certain general information about Graford ISD students is considered “directory information” and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it.

Release of any or all directory information regarding a student may be prevented by the parent or an eligible student. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days of the child’s first day of this school year. [See the acknowledgment form provided with this handbook.]

Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records. Release is restricted to:

· The parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless parental rights have been legally terminated and if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. Federal law requires that, as soon as the student becomes 18 or is emancipated by a court, control of the records goes to the student. However, the parents may continue to have access to the records if the student is a dependent for tax purposes.

· District staff members who have what federal law defines as a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. Such persons would include school officials (such as Board members, the Superintendent, and principals), school staff members (such as teachers, counselors, and diagnosticians), or an agent of the District (such as a medical consultant).

· Various governmental agencies or in response to a subpoena or court order.

· A school to which a student transfers or in which he or she subsequently enrolls.

Release to any other person or agency—such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application—will occur only with parental or student permission as appropriate.

The District must comply with a request by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education for students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless parents have advised the District not to release their child’s information without prior written consent.

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The principal is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated.

Records may be inspected by a parent or eligible student during regular school hours. If circumstances prevent inspection during these hours, the District will either provide a copy of the requested records, or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review the requested records. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records. The address of the Superintendent’s office is 400 West Division Street, Graford, TX. 76449 (the address of the principals’ offices is the same.)

A parent (or the student if he or she is 18 or older or is attending an institution of postsecondary education) may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to request a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process defined by policy FNG. [See Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences, and Student or Parent Complaints and Concerns for an overview of the process.]

Copies of student records are available at a cost of ten cents per page, payable in advance. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge upon written request of the parent.

Please note:

Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District is not in compliance with federal law regarding student records. The District’s policy regarding student records is available from the principal’s or Superintendent’s office.

The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies of student a record does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records—such as teachers’ personal notes about a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher—do not have to be made available to the parents or student.

STUDENT OR PARENT COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed simply—by a phone call or a conference with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled in this manner, the District has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG (LOCAL) in the District’s policy manual. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the principal’s or Superintendent’s office.

In general, the student or parent should first discuss the complaint with the campus principal. If unresolved, a written complaint and a request for a conference should be sent to the Superintendent. If still unresolved, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

Because class time is important, doctor’s appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.

A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning. A student who becomes ill during the school day should, with the teacher’s permission, report to the school nurse. The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent.

A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with permission from the principal or designee and according to the campus sign-out procedures. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.

LATE ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL (TARDIES)

A student who is tardy to school or to a class by more than fifteen minutes will be counted as having an unexcused absence for that class period. Repeated instances of tardiness will result in disciplinary action. [See Attendance for Credit]

WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL

A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by a parent/guardian. The school requests notice from the parent at least three days in advance so that records and documents may be prepared. A withdrawal form may be obtained by the parent from the principal’s office.

On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form will be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book clearance; to the library aide to ensure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and finally, to the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student and a copy placed in the student’s permanent record.

A student who is 18 or older, who is married, or who has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor, may withdraw without parental signature.

SECTION II

CURRICULUM-RELATED INFORMATION

This section of the handbook contains pertinent requirements for academics and activities. Much of this information will also be of interest to your parents and should be reviewed with them—especially if you are entering 9th grade or are a transfer student. The section includes information on graduation programs and requirements; options for earning course credit; extracurricular activities and other school-related organizations; and awards, honors, and scholarships.

QUICK REFERENCE: Where to look when you need help with…

· Academic Dishonesty/cheating/plagiarism

· Awards and honors

· Class rank/top ten percent/highest ranking student

· State scholarships and grants

· Bell schedules

· Correspondence courses

· Counseling: academic

· Counseling: personal

· Credit by exam

· Dual credit courses/college courses

· Career and technology programs

· Extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations

· Promotion and retention

· Graduation

· Homework

· Lockers

· Lunch program

· Special programs

· Textbooks

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The school counselor provides students and their parents’ information regarding academic programs to prepare for higher education and career choices. There will be opportunities during the year for seniors to apply for scholarships. The counselor or principal will make this information available to the students. The counselor will be available if a student needs help completing applications.

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY / CHEATING / PLAGIARISM

Academic dishonesty, as in cheating or plagiarism, is not acceptable. Cheating includes the copying of another student’s work, such as homework, class work, or test answers as one’s own. Plagiarism is the use of another person’s original ideas or writing without giving credit to the true author.

A student found to have engaged in cheating will be subject to the following:

1^st time – Automatic zeroes for the work in question.

2^nd time and any time thereafter – Automatic zeroes for the work in question and/or 3 days

suspension.

AWARDS AND HONORS

Each six-weeks grading period an all “A” and an “A-B” Honor Roll may be released and published in the Lake Country Sun and on campus. A student must have all A’s for the A Honor Roll or all A’s and B’s for the A-B Honor Roll. Students in Grade 7-12 with the highest overall average for each subject will be eligible receive awards that may be offered during the year.

For purpose of six-week Honor Rolls, students who have been placed in ISS, OSS, DAEP, or have been suspended during the grading period will NOT be eligible for Honor Roll recognition. Any student who is ineligible for a grading period Honor Roll will be ineligible for the corresponding Semester Honor Roll. \

CLASS RANK / TOP TEN PERCENT / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT

Students who are ranked in the top ten percent of their graduating class are eligible for a period of two school years following their graduation for automatic admission into Texas general academic universities and colleges. The top ten percent is calculated based on the following: if there are 21-24 students graduating, the top two students would be ranked in the top ten percent. If there are 25-29 students graduating, the top three students would be ranked in the top ten percent. Students and parents should see the Counselor for further information on about how to apply and the deadline for application.

The valedictorian and the salutatorian are those members of the senior class who have the two highest scholastic averages. Beginning with the graduating seniors of 2008, to be eligible for valedictorian and salutatorian, students must be on the recommended or distinguished achievement plan. These students are determined at the end of the 5^th six-week grading period of their senior year. No accelerated graduation plan will be eligible to receive the valedictorian and salutatorian.

To be eligible, a student must have attended the last two years at Graford High School and must carry a regular education schedule at all times. An exception to the attendance rule will be made in the case of the transfer of an entire high school, where the determination will be made based on the records from the transferring school.

In calculating scholastic averages for class ranking for high school students,

Advanced courses are: AP English

Spanish 3

Physics*

Pre-Calculus

Duel Credit Classes

*Beginning with the 9^th grade in 2007-2008, Physics will not be an advanced course.

Advanced placement courses will be weighted per six weeks:

100-90 average 5 points

89-80 average 4 points

79-70 average 3 points

Classes not included in the GPA are: Office/Teacher Aide, Athletics, PE, Local Enrichment courses, TAKS preparation/ remediation.

STATE SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS

· Under the Texas Early High School Graduation Scholarship Program, students who complete the Recommended or Advanced (Distinguished Achievement) High School Program may earn financial credits in varying amounts to apply toward college tuition. The amounts depend on the number of consecutive months in which the student completed graduation requirements and the number of early college credits earned and may be used at public or private Texas higher education institutions within the state. The counselor can provide additional information about meeting the program’s eligibility requirements.

· Students who have a financial need according to federal criteria and who complete the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program may be eligible under the TEXAS Grant Program for tuition and fees to Texas public universities, community colleges, and technical schools, as well as to private institutions. [For further information, see the principal or counselor and policy EJ.]

COMPUTER RESOURCES

To prepare students for an increasingly computerized society, the District has made a substantial investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and their parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of these resources; violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.

Students should be aware that e-mail, using district computers, is not permitted and will be monitored by district staff. Violations of this policy will be referred for disciplinary action.

[For additional information, see policy CQ.]

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

The District permits high school students to take correspondence courses—courses by mail or via the Internet—for credit toward high school graduation.

A maximum of three credits may be earned through correspondence courses.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Corporal punishment-spanking or paddling the student-may be used as a discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Corporal punishment will be governed by the following conditions:

1. The student will be told the reason for the corporal punishment.

2. The punishment may be administered only by the principal or an assistant principal.

3. The instrument to be used will be approved by the principal.

4. The punishment will be administered in the presence of one other District professional employee and out of view of other students.

5. A record will be maintained of each instance of corporal punishment.

COUNSELING

Academic Counseling

Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn about course offerings, the graduation requirements of various programs, and early graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades eight through eleventh will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next year and other information that will help to make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.

To plan for the future, including attendance at a college, university, or training school, or pursuit of some other type of advanced education, students should work closely with the counselor in order to take the high school courses that best prepare them. The counselor can also provide information about entrance exams and deadlines for application, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.

PERSONAL COUNSELING

The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. A student who wishes to meet with the counselor should set up an appointment with the counselor.

Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parent’s written consent, unless required by state or federal law for special education purposes or by the Texas Education Agency for child abuse investigations and reports.

[For more information, refer to policy FFE and FFG (EXHIBIT).]

CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Taken the Course

A student who has received prior instruction in a course or subject—but did not receive credit for it—may, in circumstances determined by the teacher, counselor, principal, or attendance committee, be permitted to earn credit by passing an exam on the essential knowledge and skills defined for the course or subject. To receive credit, a student must score at least 70 on the exam. In other instances, the District administration will determine whether any opportunity for credit by exam will be offered.

The attendance review committee may offer a student with excessive absences an opportunity to earn credit for a course by passing an exam. A student may not use this exam, however, to regain eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities. [For further information, see the counselor and policy EEJA.]

CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Not Taken the Course

A student will be permitted to take an exam to earn credit for an academic course for which the student has no prior instruction.

The passing score required to earn credit on an exam is 90.

If a student plans to take an exam, the student (or parent) must register with the principal no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date. The District will honor a request by a parent to administer a test on a date other than the published dates. The parent will be responsible for paying an appropriate fee to the District or for purchasing the test from a university approved by the State Board of Education. [For further information, see policy EEJB.]

DISTANCE LEARNING

Juniors and seniors are eligible to take dual credit classes in the distance learning lab. For more information, contact the school counselor.

DUAL CREDIT COURSES / COLLEGE COURSEWORK

The District may enter into an agreement with a public junior college or state university that allows them to offer a course in which a student attending the high school may enroll, and for which the student may receive both course credit toward high school graduation requirements and college course credit.

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

The District offers career and technology programs in Vocational Agriculture, Family Consumer Science, and Computer Technology (see Tech Prep).

The District will take steps to ensure that a lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS

Participation in school and school-related activities is an excellent way for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and build strong friendships with other students; participation, however, is a privilege, not a right.

Eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law as well as rules of the University Interscholastic League (UIL)—a statewide association overseeing interdistrict competition. The following requirements apply to all extracurricular activities:

· A student who receives at the end of a grading period a grade below 70 in any academic class—other than a class identified as honors or advanced by either the State Board of Education or by the local Board of Trustees—may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks.

· A student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the individualized education program (IEP) may not participate for at least three school weeks.

· An ineligible student may practice or rehearse.

· A student is allowed in a school year up to ten absences not related to post-district competition, a maximum of five absences for post-district competition prior to state, and a maximum of two absences for state competition. A student may be allowed an additional ten absences for extracurricular activities if the student has a passing grade in all courses to be missed. All extracurricular activities and public performances, whether UIL activities or other activities approved by the Board, are subject to these restrictions.

· A student who misses a class because of participation in an activity that has not been approved will receive an unexcused absence.

Please note: Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups such as drill and athletic teams may establish standards of behavior—including consequences for misbehavior—that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization.

[For further information, see policies FM and FO.]

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Graford ISD provides a number of opportunities for students to actively involve themselves in school activities. Student clubs and performing groups may establish codes of conduct and consequences for misbehavior that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization. For information relating to each club or organization contact the listed sponsor. A copy of each clubs rules will be on file in the principal’s office.

FFA- Future Farmers of America & 4-H----------------------------------Robert Ray

FBLA – Future Business Leaders of America----------------------------Carole Glidewell

FCCLA – Future Career and Community Leaders of America---------Barbara Hill

Cheerleaders -----------------------------------------------------------------Patricia Ray

National Honor Society -----------------------------------------------Sharla King

Student Council --------------------------------------------------------Sophie Conley

Athletic -----------------------------------------------------------------J.B. Littlejohn

UIL --------------------------------------------------------------------------Scott Phillips

Yearbook ----------------------------------------------------------------------Lori Henderson

CLASS SPONSORS 2008-2009

7th grade Lori Henderson/Calvin Wright

8th grade Patricia Ray/Holly Witte

9th grade Carole Glidewell/Robert Ray/J.B. Littlejohn

10th grade Ann Criswell/Derek Wuthrich/Sandra Justice

11th grade Diane Ivy/Barbara Hill/Rodney Hall

12th grade Sophie Conley/Andrea Perry/Scott Phillips

ATHLETICS

[For further information, see Athletic Handbook]

CHEERLEADERS AND MASCOT

[For further information, see Cheerleader and Mascot Constitution]

FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA (FFA)

1. Members must be or have previously been enrolled in an agricultural science

class and pay dues.

2. Members shall learn the creed, motto, and salute.

3. Members shall be able to describe the FFA emblems, colors and symbols.

4. Members must submit a written application for one of four degrees of active membership.

a. Greenhand Degree

b. Chapter Farmer Degree

c. State Farmer Degree

d. American Farmer Degree

FAMILY CAREER AND COMMUNITY LEADERS OF AMERICA (FCCLA)

Members must be approved by the sponsor, must pay dues and be currently or previously enrolled in Home Economics class.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

1. Candidates must be approved by the sponsor. Approval is based on scholarship, service, leadership, and character.

2. Candidates must be a sophomore, junior, or senior and have been enrolled in Graford High School the previous semester.

3. Candidates and members must maintain a GPA of at least 90 and continually pass all subjects.

4. All members of the NHS will abide by the constitution of the National Honor Society and any local rules set for the by the local organization.

STUDENT COUNCIL

Will be a group of students in grades 7-12 who work together to meet the following objectives:

1. Develop and provide leadership and service opportunities in the school and community.

2. Initiate, implement, and complete projects and activities which will be of help to students, faculty, and administrators.

3. Promote respect for law and order and general welfare of the school and community.

4. Provide a viable means for the management of student concerns.

5. Develop good citizenship in the student body.

6. Increase student involvement and pride in their school.

Each grade level (7-12) elects representatives to the Student Council. To be placed on the ballot, students must complete“intent to run” form and obtain teacher and students signatures supporting their run for Student Council.

The Council will consist of the following:

3 - Seniors 2 – Juniors 1 student each from sophomore and freshman class.

Only a senior student may be selected for Student Council President. The entire student body elects this position. Students must prepare and deliver a speech. The student receiving the most votes is elected president. Runoffs are only conducted in the event of a tie.

The Student Council members elect the other officers, which include:

Vice-President Secretary/Treasurer Reporter

If a student fails to attend two council meetings and does not promote or participate in one council activity, the sponsor reserves the right to dismiss that student from the organization, and any violation of the Student Code of Conduct can be grounds for dismissal from the student council. Removal will be left to the discretion of the school administration and the student council sponsor. Any student that is suspended, placed in an alternative educational setting, or engages in conduct punishable as a felony is automatically removed from the council.

YEARBOOK STAFF – Students must be approved by the sponsor. Approval is based on cooperation and willingness to work.

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward graduation.

Credits Earned Classification

5 Grade 10 (sophomore)

10 Grade 11 (junior)

15 Grade 12 (senior)

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

A student will be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency in the subject matter of the course or grade level. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of at least 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards.

In addition, at certain grade levels a student—with limited exceptions—will be required to pass the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), if the student is enrolled in a public Texas school on any day between January 1 and April 15 and is a Texas resident during the week that the TAKS is administered the first time.

· In order to be promoted to grade 4, students must have performed satisfactorily on the Reading section of the grade 3 assessment test in English or Spanish.

· In order to be promoted to grade 6, students enrolled in grade 5 must have performed satisfactorily on the Mathematics and Reading sections of the grade 5 assessment test in English or Spanish.

· In order to be promoted to grade 9, students enrolled in grade 8 in the 2007–2008 school year must perform satisfactorily on the Mathematics and Reading sections of the grade 8 assessment test in English.

In addition, students in grades 3, 5, and 8 must meet promotion standards established by the District in order to be promoted.

Parents of students in grades 3, 5, and 8 who do not perform satisfactorily on their exams will be notified that their child will participate in special instructional programs designed to improve performance. These students will also have two additional opportunities to take the test. If the student fails a second time, a grade placement committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the teacher, and the student’s parent, will determine the additional special instruction the student will receive. After a third failed attempt, the student will be retained; however, the parent can appeal this decision to the committee. In order for the student to be promoted, based on standards previously established by the District, the decision of the committee must be unanimous. Whether the student is retained or promoted, an educational plan for the student will be designed to enable the student to perform at grade level by the end of the next school year. [See policy EIE.]

A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any student in a middle school or beyond who did not perform satisfactorily on a state-mandated assessment test or is determined by the District as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year following enrollment in grade 9. The PGP will be designed and implemented by a guidance counselor, teacher, or other staff member designated by the principal. The plan will identify the student’s educational goals and include consideration of the parent’s educational expectations for the student. [For additional information, see the counselor and policy EIF.]

Certain students—some with disabilities and some with limited English proficiency—may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or deferred testing. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.

GRADUATION

REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

To receive a high school diploma from the District, a student must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass a statewide exit-level exam.

The grade 11 exit-level test, required for students in grade 11, covers English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies and requires knowledge of Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, Integrated Chemistry and Physics, English III, and early American and United States History. A student who does not pass the exit-level assessment will have additional opportunities to take the test with dates determined by the State Board of Education.

GRADUATION EXPENSES

Because students and parents will incur expenses in order to participate in the traditions of graduation—such as the purchase of invitations, senior ring, cap and gown, and senior picture—both student and parent should monitor progress toward completion of all requirements for graduation. The expenses often are incurred in the junior year or first semester of the senior year.

GRADUATION PLANS

The District offers the graduation plans listed below. All students entering grade 9 are required to enroll in the Recommended High School Plan or Distinguished Achievement Plan. Permission to enroll in the Minimum Graduation Program will be granted only if an agreement is reached among the student, the student’s parent or person standing in parental relation, and the counselor or appropriate administrator. The counselor can help you decide which program is best for you. [See policy EIF.]

To receive a high school diploma from the District, a student must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass a statewide exit-level examination or end of course examination (see Testing).

Minimum High School Diploma: 22 credits

English Language Arts (4 credits) Mathematics (3 credits to include Algebra I and Geometry)

Science (2 credits) Social Studies (2 ½ credits)

Economics (½ credit) Physical Education (1 ½ credits)

Health Education (½ credit) *Electives (5 1/2 credits)

Technology Applications (1 credit) Speech (1/2)

*One elective must be World History, World Geography, or Science

Recommended High School Program: *24 Credits

English Language Arts (4 credits) Mathematics (4 credits, Alg. I, Alg. II, Geom.)

Science (3 credits) Social Studies (3 ½ credits)

Economics (½ credit) Physical Education (1 ½ credits)

Health Education (½ credit) Speech (½ credit)

Technology Applications (1 credit) Fine Arts (1 credit)

Languages other than English (2 credits) Electives (3 ½ credits)

Distinguished Achievement Program: *24 Credits

English Language Arts (4 credits) Mathematics (3 credits, Alg. I, Alg. II, Geom.)

Science (3 credits) Social Studies (3 ½ credits)

Economics (½ credit) Other Languages (3 credits)

Physical Education (1 ½ credits) Health Education (½ credit)

Technology Applications (1 credit) Fine Arts (1 credit)

Speech (½ credit) Electives (2 ½ credits, see the counselor for the different options)

*Freshman (9th graders) entering high school during the 2007-2008 school year will be required to have 26 (twenty-six) credits to receive a diploma on the recommended plan and the distinguished achievement plan. State requirements have added one more Math and Science credit.

Exemption – foreign exchange or out-of-state students that have had only 1 chance to pass the exit-level tests. Note – these students to be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony if the following requirements are met:

1. Be a class member in good standing.

2. Complete all local and state requirements.

3. Pass state required exit-level tests.

4. All fines and fees must be paid in full.

Students would not be allowed to participate if they had 2 chances to take the test and had failed to pass.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Upon the recommendation of the admission, review, and dismissal committee, a student with disabilities may be permitted to graduate under the provisions of his or her individualized education program (IEP).

GYMNASIUM

The gymnasium is a place of instruction and should be treated as all other classrooms. No smoking, dipping, or chewing is allowed in the gym at any time. The Graford Independent School District Campus is tobacco-free at all times by all individuals.

HOMEWORK

When homework is assigned, the student is expected to complete the work and turn it in when due. Each teacher will issue students the homework policy for their classes. Teachers will have the option of assigning detention hall to students that fail to turn in homework. If students become habitual in failing to turn in homework it will be turned over to the principal and be considered a disciplinary problem and will be dealt with as such. Punishments that may be used are corporal punishment, detention hall, or ISS.

LOCKERS

Lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school, even when assigned to an individual student. The school reserves the right to inspect all lockers. The student has full responsibility for the security of the locker and is responsible for making certain that it is locked, and that the combination is not available to others. Searches of lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to do so, whether or not a student is present.

The school assumes no responsibility for items missing from lockers. Combination locks will be issued to students and the combinations recorded in the principal’s office. Take care of valuables. Make sure textbooks and personal possessions have your name on them. Do not leave money, jewelry, or other valuable items in your lockers.

Students will be expected to keep their lockers neat and litter-free. Periodic locker checks will be made and each student is expected to keep their locker neat and clean. Students will not be permitted to change lockers without permission through the principal’s office. Food and drink (except student lunches) will not be permitted in student’s lockers. Lockers are not to be written on or defaced in any way. A student guilty of this will be subject to disciplinary action.

Lockers are assigned, and there will be consequences for moving to a different locker without permission of the office.

NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM

The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced-price lunches based on a student’s financial need. Information can be obtained from the principal’s office.

Lunch will be regular price until the application is completed and approved.

Open campus is for seniors only, who meet and maintain the open campus requirements:

· Passing all subjects during the subsequent grading period ,

· Under the attendance limit for the current semester,

· Have a registered vehicle in the office, and

· Parent signed release form in the office.

· A signed permission slip by parent or guardian for students to leave campus.

Being tardy after off-campus lunch may be cause for having the privilege revoked.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, homeless students, bilingual students and migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact.

Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education

If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the District’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other support services that are available to all students.

At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the District must decide if the evaluation is needed. If evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide consent for the evaluation. The District must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date the District receives the written consent. The District must give a copy of the report to the parent.

If the District determines that the evaluation is not needed, the District will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of their rights if they disagree with the District. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities.

The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is Sharla King, school counselor at 664-3161

TEXTBOOKS

State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book issued by the school loses the right to free textbooks until the book is returned or restitution is made to the school district. However, a student will be provided textbooks for use at school during the school day.

SECTION III

GENERAL INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS

Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information regarding school operations and requirements. Included are provisions such as student welfare; health and safety issues; fees; the school’s expectations for student conduct (other than Student Code of Conduct requirements); use of facilities, such as the cafeteria, library, and transportation services; and emergency closings. For additional information or questions you may have, please see the principal.

QUICK REFERENCE: Where to look when you need information about…

· Attendance

· Driver License Attendance Verification

· Makeup work

· Communicable diseases/Conditions

· Health-related matters

· Conduct

· Disruptions

· Law enforcement agencies

· Distribution of published materials or documents

· Dress and grooming

· Student fees

· Fund-raising

· Immunization

· Pledges of allegiance and a minute of silence

· Prayer

· Safety

· Emergency school-closings information

· Searches

· Semester test exemptions

· Senior trip

· Summer school

· Telephone

· Testing program (TAKS)

· Transfer Students

· Transportation

· Vehicles on campus

· Videotaping of students

· Visitors to the school

ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education—to benefit from teacher-led and school activities, to build each day’s learning on the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two state laws, one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit, are of special interest to students and parents. Each is discussed in the following sections:

Compulsory Attendance

The state compulsory attendance law requires that a student between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend school and District-required tutorial sessions unless the student is otherwise legally exempted or excused. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her eighteenth birthday is required to attend each school day. However, if a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, the District may revoke the student’s enrollment. The student’s presence on school property thereafter is then unauthorized and may be considered trespass.

School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent from school without permission from any class; from required special programs, such as additional special instruction (termed “accelerated instruction” by the state) assigned by the grade placement committee and basic skills for ninth graders; or from required tutorials will be considered in violation of the law and subject to disciplinary action.

A school-aged student’s deliberately not attending school may also result in assessment of penalties by a court of law against both the student and his or her parents. A complaint against the parent may be filed in the appropriate court if the student:

· Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or

· Is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period.

When a student is going to be absent from school, a parent/guardian must call to inform the school that the child will be out of school. The phone number is 940-664-3161 ext. 221

A student absent from school shall provide a note that describes the reason for absence. The note shall be signed by the student’s parent or guardian. If the student is 18 or older or has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor, the student may sign in place of a parent or guardian. A note for an excused absence must be turned into the office within 2 days upon return to school for absences to be excused. After 2 days, without written notification, the absence will be unexcused. Every effort will be made to notify parents/guardians when students are not in attendance during the day.

Attendance for Credit

To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit.

In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the attendance committee will use the following guidelines:

· All absences will be considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. If makeup work is completed, absences for religious holy days and health-care appointments will be considered days of attendance for this purpose. [See policy FEB.]

· A transfer or migrant student incurs absences only after his or her enrollment in the District. For a student transferring into the District after school begins, including a migrant student, only those absences after enrollment will be considered.

· In reaching consensus about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that its decision is in the best interest of the student.

· The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of documented reasons for the student’s absences.

· The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over which the student or the student’s parent could exercise any control.

· The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in the course or subject.

· The student or parent will be given an opportunity to present any information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit.

The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to the District’s Board of Trustees by filing a written request with the Superintendent in accordance with policy FNG.

The actual number of days a student must attend in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year.

Driver License Attendance Verification

To obtain a driver license, a student between the ages of 16 and 18 must annually provide to the Texas Department of Public Safety a form obtained from the school verifying that the student has met the 90 percent attendance requirement for the semester preceding the date of application. The student can obtain this form at the campus office.

MAKEUP WORK

Routine and In-depth Makeup Work Assignments

A student will be permitted to make up tests and to turn in projects due in any class missed because of absence. Secondary teachers may assign a late penalty to any project in accordance with time lines approved by the principal and previously communicated to students.

The teacher may assign the student makeup work for any class missed based on the instructional objectives for the subject or course and the needs of the individual student in mastering the essential knowledge and skills or in meeting subject or course requirements.

A student will be responsible for obtaining and completing the makeup work in a satisfactory manner and within the time specified by the teacher. [For further information, see policy EIAB.]

Students shall receive credit for satisfactory make-up work after an absence, including absences as a result of suspension, but shall receive a zero for any assignment or test not made up within the allotted time. Students will have 2 (two) days to make up work for an excused absence.

DAEP or In-school Suspension Makeup Work

A student removed to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete coursework needed to fulfill the student’s high school graduation requirements before the beginning of the next school year. The District may provide the opportunity to complete the coursework through any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. The District will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the District. [See policy FOCA.]

A student removed from the regular classroom to in-school suspension or another setting, other than a DAEP, will have an opportunity to complete before the beginning of the next school year each course the student was enrolled in at the time of removal from the regular classroom. The District may provide the opportunity by any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. [See policy FEA.]

Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss options with the teacher or counselor to ensure the student completes all work required for the course or grade level.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES / CONDITIONS

To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. If a parent suspects that his or her child has a communicable or contagious disease, the parent should contact the school nurse or principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.

The school nurse or the principal’s office can provide information from the Texas Department of Health regarding these diseases.

Bacterial Meningitis

State law specifically requires the District to provide the following information:

· What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is most common and the least serious. Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death.

· What are the symptoms?

Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms.

Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body.

The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results.

· How serious is bacterial meningitis?

If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.

· How is bacterial meningitis spread?

Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing; sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).

The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune system and cause meningitis or another serious illness.

· How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?

Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss.

While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used only in special circumstances. These include when there is a disease outbreak in a community or for people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting the disease. Also, a vaccine is recommended by some groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective (85–90 percent). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.

· What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis?

You should seek prompt medical attention.

· Where can you get more information?

Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. You may also call your local health department or Regional Texas Department of Health office to ask about meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also be found at the Web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State Health Services, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us.

HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS

School Health Advisory Council

Information regarding the District’s School Health Advisory Council, including the number of meetings scheduled or held during the year, and information regarding vending machines in District facilities and student access to the machines is available from the principal. [See also policies BDF and EHAA.]

Other Health-Related Matters

Tobacco Prohibited

The District and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students and others on school property or at school-sponsored or school-related activities. [See the Student Code of Conduct and policy GKA.]

Asbestos Management Plan

The District’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations, is available in the Superintendent’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Welch at 940-664-3101 ext 225.

Pest Management Plan

The District applies only pest control products that comply with state and federal guidelines. Except in an emergency, signs will be posted 48 hours before application. Parents who want to be notified prior to pesticide application inside their child(ren)’s school assignment area may contact Rick Reger at 940-664-3161 ext. 240.

FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION

The District believes that all students learn best in an environment free from harassment and that their welfare is best served when they can work free from discrimination. Students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect.

The Board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, or disability. [See policy FFH] Prohibited harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance. A copy of the District’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the Superintendent’s office.

Examples of prohibited discrimination may include, but are not limited to, derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; bullying, threatening or intimidating conduct; name-calling or slurs, taunting, teasing (even when presented as “jokes”), or rumors; aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact.

Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, all romantic and inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and District employees are prohibited, even if consensual.

Any student (or the student’s parent) who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited harassment should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other District employee.

To the extent possible, the District will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations will be promptly investigated. The District will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited harassment by an adult associated with the District, or by another student, when the allegations, if proven, would constitute “sexual harassment” or “other prohibited harassment” as defined by District policy.

If the District’s investigation indicates that prohibited harassment occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the harassment. The District may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint did not rise to the level of harassment prohibited by law or policy.

Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of prohibited harassment is prohibited. However, a person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a District investigation may be subject to appropriate discipline.

A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG.

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, the District makes the following statements:

Graford ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The following District staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements:

· Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex: Pat Narcomey, Secondary Principal.

· Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Sharla King, Counselor.

· All other concerns: See the Superintendent.

Services for the Homeless and for Title I Participants

Other designated staff you may need to contact include:

· Liaison for Homeless Children and Youths, who coordinates services for homeless students: Sharla King, School Counselor

· Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs: Angie Myrick, Elementary Principal.

Services for Students with Disabilities

Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need special education services may request an evaluation for special education at any time. For more information, Contact Sharla King at 664-3161.

CONDUCT

Applicability of School Rules

As required by law, the District has established a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defines standards of acceptable behavior—both on and off campus—and consequences for violation of the standards. Students need to be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules.

To achieve the best possible learning environment for all students, the Student Code of Conduct and other campus rules of behavior will apply whenever the interest of the District is involved, on or off school grounds, in conjunction with or independent of classes and school-sponsored activities. The District has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

DETENTION

Morning detention may be assigned by any member of the faculty or administration for violation of the Student Code of Conduct, Student Handbook, campus rules or classroom rules. Morning detentions will be at the teacher’s discretion and may be used from 7:30-7:55 a.m. Afternoon detentions issued by the principal and/or designee will be from 3:20 - 4:20 on Monday through Thursday afternoons.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS)

1. Students will report to office by 7:55 a.m. and will be there sent from the office to ISS until 3:15pm. Students who become discipline referrals from ISS will be given more serious consequences.

2. Students serving ISS, OSS, DAEP are not allowed to practice, participate, or attend extra-curricular or school-sponsored activities, which includes games, AG competitions, senior trip, prom, and so on. (Example: A student is assigned ISS on a Friday, Monday, and Tuesday. The student may not play or attend a game on Friday or Saturday. The student is not aloud to practice on Monday. As of 3:15 on Tuesday, the student is aloud to participate, practice, or attend extra-curricular and school-sponsored activities.)

3. After 15 days (cumulative total) in ISS, students will be assigned to a minimum of 15 days in DAEP in Mineral Wells.

Social Events

School rules apply to school social events to which a student brings a guest. Guests are expected to observe the same rules as students attending the event, and the person inviting the guest will share responsibility for the conduct of the guest.

A student attending a social event will be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the event; anyone leaving before the official end of the event will not be readmitted.

Disruptions

As identified by law, disruptions include the following:

· Interferes with the movement of people at an exit, an entrance, or a hallway of a District building without authorization from an administrator.

· Interferes with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building.

· Uses force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly.

· Uses force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during an assembly.

· Interferes with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to District property.

· Uses force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving District property without authorization from an administrator.

· Disrupts classes or other school activities while on District property or on public property that is within 500 feet of District property. Class disruption includes making loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to prevent a student from attending, a required class or activity; and entering a classroom without authorization and disrupting the activity with profane language or any misconduct.

· Interferes with the transportation of students in District vehicles.

Cell Phones, Radios, CD Players, and Other Electronic Devices and Games

Students are not permitted to possess such items as pagers, radios, CD players, tape recorders, camcorders, DVD players, cameras, or electronic devices or games at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the item and turn it in to the principal’s office. The principal will return the item at the end of the day, to the student to take home (First Offense). Any future offenses will be referred for disciplinary action.

For safety purposes, the District permits students to possess cell phones, but they must remain turned off once a student arrives on campus and during the school day. Cell phones must remain turned off and must not be visible at anytime during the school day. If a cell phone is removed from a student’s possession, a fifteen-dollar ($15.00) fee will be assessed for its return and a parent/guardian will be notified. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. For certain items, such as pagers, in which a third party retains a legal right of ownership, the school may charge for releasing the pager to the third party.

[See policy FNCE.]

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

QUESTIONING OF STUDENTS

When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school:

· The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school.

· The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

· The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

· The principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation.

STUDENTS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY BY LAW ENFORCEMENT

State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody:

· To comply with an order of the juvenile court.

· To comply with the laws of arrest.

· By law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision.

· By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court.

· By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety.

· To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody.

Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student.

The principal will immediately notify the Superintendent and will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person brings forth what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a custody action, notification will most likely be after the fact.

NOTIFICATION OF LAW VIOLATIONS

The District is also required by state law to notify:

· All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.

· All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or adjudicated of delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.

[For further information, see policy GRA.]

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials

Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with prior approval by the principal. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals, etc.

All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.

Non-school Materials … from students

Unless a student obtains specific prior approval from the principal, written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus. To be considered, any non-school material must include the name of the sponsoring organization or individual. The decision regarding approval will be made in two school days.

The student may appeal the principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Materials displayed without this approval will be removed.

Non-school Materials … from others

Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the District or by a District-affiliated school-support organization will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any District premises by any District employee or by persons or groups not associated with the District, except as permitted by policy GKDA. To be considered, any non-school material must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, include the name of the sponsoring organization or individual, and be submitted to the principal for specific prior review. The principal will approve or reject the materials within two school days of the time the materials are received. The requestor may appeal a rejection in accordance with the appropriate District complaint policy. [See policy DGBA, FNG, or GF.]

Prior review will not be required for:

· Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a school-sponsored meeting intended for adults and held after school hours.

· Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a community group meeting held after school hours in accordance with policy GKD (LOCAL).

· Distribution for electioneering purposes during the time a school facility is being used as a polling place, in accordance with state law.

All non-school materials distributed under these circumstances must be removed from District property immediately following the event at which the materials are distributed.

DRESS AND GROOMING

The District’s dress code is established to maintain hygiene, discipline, prevent disruption, avoid safety hazards, and teach respect for authority. Students should be dressed and groomed in a manner that is clean and neat and that will not be a health or safety hazard to themselves or others.

The District prohibits any clothing or grooming that in the principal’s judgment may reasonably be expected to cause disruption or interfere with normal school operations. The District prohibits pictures, emblems, or writings that are lewd, offensive, vulgar, and obscene or that advertises or depicts tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or any other substance prohibited. Also, any gang related clothing shall be prohibited. The student and parent may determine the student’s personal dress and grooming standards provided they comply with these general guidelines and the District’s dress code, as set forth in the Student Handbook.

If the principal determines that a student’s grooming violates the dress code, the student shall be given an opportunity to correct the problem at school. If not corrected, the student shall be assigned to in-school suspension for the remainder of the day or until the problem is corrected with a second offense resulting in an immediate disciplinary action. A student whose clothing violates the dress code shall be assigned to in-school suspension either for the remainder of the day or until a parent or designee brings an acceptable change of clothing to the school. Repeated offenses may result in more serious disciplinary action. Appropriate disciplined procedures shall be followed in all cases.

The principal, in cooperation with the sponsor, coach, or other person in charge of an extracurricular activity, may regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate in the activity. Students who violate these standards may be removed or excluded from the activity for a period determined by the principal or sponsor and may be subject to other disciplinary action. All students enrolled in Graford Secondary School shall follow the following specific guidelines for dress and grooming:

1. Everyone will wear shoes. House shoes or slippers, high heels (3inches or taller are not allowed. *Flip flops may be worn during the months of August, September, April and May.

2. No pajamas or lounge pants are allowed.

3. Boys will wear jeans, shorts or slacks and are encouraged to wear dress or sport shirts. Muscle shirts, shirts with no sleeves, or tank tops will not be permitted. Fishnet shirts, bare midriff, backless outfits, halter tops, unhemmend clothing, see-through clothing, shirts split up the side, clothing that expose underwear, or shirts with oversized armholes are unacceptable attire for school.

4. Shirts with buttons worn with an undershirt must be buttoned.

5. Necklines for girl’s shirts and blouses shall not expose cleavage in front or be lower than the armpits in back.

6. Boys’ hair should be neat, clean, and well groomed, should not be in the eyes, or over the top of collar (dress shirt collar). Hairstyles are to be of an acceptable nature. Sideburns will be permitted to the point where the lower part of the ear is attached, but must be straight and kept trimmed. Boys shall not have their name or messages shaved into their hair. Moustaches, beards, and other expressive male styles are not allowed. No ponytails are allowed for males.

7. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings at school or school related activities.

8. Students, boys and girls, will not be allowed to wear rings or studs in their tongues, eyebrows, noses, or other exposed body parts with the exception of girls wearing earrings. This includes extracurricular events and contests, or any other event that is a school function regardless whether it is on the campus of Graford High School or at any other location.

9. Caps and hats will not be worn or carried into the classroom, cafeteria or gym during school hours. Bandanas or any gang related clothing will not be permitted.

10. Girls’ hair should be neat, clean, and well groomed, and should not be in the eyes. Hairstyles are to be of an acceptable nature.

11. Girls may wear slacks, pants, shorts or jeans. Girls must wear appropriate undergarments.

12. Clothing that is “fashionably” torn, ripped, or too revealing will not be permitted.

13. Shorts and skirts that are shorter than five inches above the knee (e.g. 3x5 index card from the top of the knee) will not be permitted.

14. Girls will not be permitted to wear tank tops or tops with spaghetti straps.

15. Girls will not be allowed to wear tops that expose their navel or any part of their midriff.

16. Students will not be allowed to wear pants that are baggy or that sag.

17. Sunglasses will not be worn in the building or classrooms.

18. No unnatural hair color (i.e. Green, pink, orange, etc.)

19. Visible tattoos are prohibited and must be covered.

The interpretative authority as to what dress or grooming is appropriate or inappropriate shall be vested in the principal.

STUDENT FEES

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds and are at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:

· Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.

· Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities.

· Security deposits.

· Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.

· Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.

· Uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the District.

· Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.

· Parking fees and student identification cards.

· Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books.

· Fees for driver training courses, if offered.

· Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require use of facilities not available on District premises.

· Summer school for courses that are offered tuition-free during the regular school year.

· A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student who lives within two miles of the school.

· A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an educational program outside of regular school hours for a student who has lost credit because of absences and whose parent chooses the program in order for the student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement. The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a District-provided request form.

Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the principal. [For further information, see policy FP.]

FUND RAISING

Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent groups may occasionally be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives. An application for permission must be made to the principal at least 10 days before the event. Fund raising is not permitted on school property, except as approved by the policies of Graford I.S.D. All fundraisers must be approved in advance by the principal and placed on the approved school calendar.

IMMUNIZATION

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical reasons or reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the student will not be immunized. For exemptions based on reasons of conscience, only official forms issued by the Department of State Health Services, Immunization Division, can be honored by the District. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubella (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus influenza type B, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken pox). The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Department of State Health Services. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor's opinion, the immunization required poses a significant risk to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student's family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long condition. [For further information, see policy FFAB and the Department of State Health Services Web site: http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/immunize/school_info.htm]

PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF SILENCE

Texas law requires students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag each school day. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge.

A minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. The student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others. [See policy EC for more information.]

PRAYER

Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

SAFETY

Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school safety. A student should:

· Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.

· Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.

· Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the principal safety hazards, such as intruders on campus and threats made by any person toward a student or staff member.

· Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.

· Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.

DRILLS – FIRE, TORNADO, AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Everyone shall participate in drills for emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should direct their attention to the teacher and follow the listed plan of action:

Fire Drill- 3 (three) bells will sound; everyone exit the building according to the maps posted in each room. You may return to your room after the “all clear” bell has sounded.

Tornado-An announcement of approaching severe weather will be made. The teacher will take the class to the closest interior wall of the building. DO NOT take students to a location where blowing glass could be a danger. The students are to sit on the floor facing the walls with their hands covering their heads. The teacher and class may return to the room after the “all clear” has sounded.

Persons in the building with a weapon-An announcement to start the lock down will be made. The doors will be immediately locked. The students will be seated on the floor against the wall where the door is located (or other place where the person could not see the students through the door/window). Stay in this arrangement until the “all clear” has sounded.

Bomb threat-An announcement of “Code Red” will be made. At that time students will be evacuated from the building. The following evacuation plan will be used”

P/K-2^nd Grade will walk to the Methodist Church

3^rd-4^th Grade will walk to the Assembly of God Church

5^th- 6^th Grade will walk to the Full Gospel Baptist Church

7^th –8^th Grade will walk to the Lion’s Club

9^th- 12^th Grade will walk to the Fellowship of the Believers Church

For a Bomb threat, students are to leave ALL PERSONAL ITEMS in the room.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT AND INFORMATION

If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment, and information about allergies to medications, foods, insect bites, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the school nurse to update any information that the nurse or the teacher needs to know.

Emergency School-Closing Information

Emergency school closing information will be made on the following media:

Radio - Mineral Wells Radio station “The Ram” 88.5 FM

94.7 KWKO

Television – Ch. 4 FOX

Ch. 5 NBC

Ch. 8 ABC

Ch. 11 CBS

SCHOOL FACILITIES

Use by Students before and after School

Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place.

The following areas are open to students before school beginning at 7:30 a.m.

· Cafeteria

· Teacher supervised classrooms after 7:45 a.m.

Unless the teacher or sponsor overseeing the activity gives permission, a student will not be permitted to go to another area of the building or campus.

After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately.

CONDUCT BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL

Teachers and administrators have full authority over student conduct at before- or after-school activities on District premises and at school-sponsored events off District premises, such as play rehearsal, club meetings, athletic practice, and special study groups or tutorials. Students are subject to the same rules of conduct that apply during the instructional day and will be subject to consequences established by the Student Code of Conduct or any stricter code of conduct for extracurricular participants established by the sponsor in accordance with Board policy.

USE OF HALLWAYS

Loitering or standing in the halls between classes is not permitted. During class time, a student must have a hall pass to be outside the classroom for any purpose. Failure to obtain a pass will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

CAFETERIA SERVICES

The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student’s participation is confidential.

The District follows the federal and state guidelines regarding foods of minimal nutritional value being served or sold on school premises during the school day. [For more information, see policy CO.]

LIBRARY

The library is a learning laboratory with books, computers, magazines, and other materials available for classroom assignments, projects, and reading or listening pleasure. The library is open for student use during the following times with a teacher permit: 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

MEETINGS OF NON-CURRICULUM RELATED GROUPS

Students are permitted to meet with non-curriculum-related groups during the hours designated by the principal before and after school. These groups must comply with the requirements found in policy FNAB.

A list of these groups will be available in the principal’s office.

VANDALISM OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended—both this year and in the coming years—littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated. Students will be required to pay for damages they cause and will be subject to criminal proceedings as well as disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

SEARCHES ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, District officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law.

TRAINED DOG SEARCHES

Unscheduled visits by drug enforcement dogs may be done during the school year to deter drug use on school grounds.

SEMESTER TEST EXEMPTIONS

1. Applies to all students in grades 9-12
2. The student must have an average that can apply to one of the following criteria:

A. 90 or above 3 absences

B. 87 or above 2 absences

C. 83 or above 1 absences

D. 80 or above 0 absences

3. Freshman students may be exempt from 2 classes each semester and sophomores may be exempted from 4 classes each semester. Additionally, freshmen and sophomores students can only be exempted from each class one time during the year. Juniors and Seniors can be exempt for both semesters.

4. If a student has been assigned to D.A.E.P. during any part of the year, they must take all of their exams.

5. If a student has an unexcused absence they must take their semester exams.

6. College days for senior students (up to two days and approved in advance by the principal) will not count against students for the purpose of exemption from semester exams.

7. The student will be counted present even through he/she is not required to be in attendance, if exempted, during the exam period.

8. The attendance portion of the semester test exemption policy will be based on PEIMS data. Dr.’s notes will be accepted.

9. Grades for advanced courses will be weighted prior to determining semester test exemptions.

10. Students may choose to take their semester exams, even if they are exempt.

SENIOR TRIP

The following guidelines shall be observed in regards to senior trips, failure to comply with any of the following criteria will deem the student ineligible for participation in the senior trip. Students shall be eligible for the senior trip under the following conditions:

· They meet all graduation requirement as outlined by the State of Texas and the Graford Independent School District, including the number of credits, and documentation of successful completion of the TAKS level examinations,

· They meet all state and local attendance requirements,

· They have not been suspended or placed in DAEP during the current school year, and

· They participated in the required fund raising activities. The level of participation shall be established annually by the senior class.

Trip Guidelines :

· Students will be informed of rules and responsibilities prior to trip.

· Sponsors will enforce all school policies at the time of policy violation.

· One sponsor for seven students will accompany the students on the trip.

· Students will be assigned to a sponsor during each day, so that there can be check in times during the day. Sponsors will do activities that students are doing or monitor by attending the activities.

· There will be a curfew that is monitored by sponsors.

· Sponsors will sleep in condominiums with students or will take turns monitoring hallways if staying in a hotel.

· Luggage will be stored upon arrival at school. Luggage will be searched at random.

· Students will not be allowed to open luggage until arrival at destination.

· Students will not be allowed in the luggage area.

· There will be periodic checks throughout the bus.

· Sponsors need to know that the trip is not a vacation, but a working trip just like being at school.

· Senior class will request permission for a trip at the September board meeting.

· The school will approve senior trip destination.

· The school will approve senior trip sponsors.

JUNIOR/SENIOR PROM

Seniors and Juniors are all eligible to attend the prom. The date of the event will be announced by the Junior class and their sponsor during the first semester of the school year. All escorts to the prom not enrolled in Graford ISD must be registered in the principal’s office no later that two weeks prior to the event and not older than twenty years of age. Escorts enrolled in other school districts must meet eligibility requirements equal to our students and also registered through the school office no later than two weeks prior to the event.

SUMMER SCHOOL

High School students may earn summer school credit from any accredited summer school program as well as our local district summer school program (PLATO). A student may not earn more that 2 credits during one summer sponsored by another district.

Any student taking summer courses and successfully completing them will be awarded credit that will be used for promotion or graduation requirements. All high school courses will have to meet the essential knowledge and skills as set forth by the TEA.

Junior High students may earn promotion into the next grade level if they have not failed more than 2 (two) core classes during the regular school year.

TARDINESS TO CLASS

It is the expectation of every teacher that their students be in class and seated on time. It is the student’s responsibility to make good use of the time they have to get from one class to another. The 2007-2008 schedules will allow 5 minutes between classes which is adequate time to pass from one class to another and go to the restroom if necessary. It does not allow for visiting in the halls or at the locker area. Being late to class will be considered a disciplinary problem.

The following consequences will be applied in the case of tardiness to class:

When a student is tardy to class the teacher will send that student to the office to receive a tardy slip to admit them to class. The office will be responsible for keeping count of each student’s tardies during the six weeks.

1. Each six-week period will be accumulated separately.

2. Each student will be allowed 1 “free” tardy during the six-weeks. This is not per class, but one total for all classes.

3. The second, and third tardy may result in a detention assignment.

4. Three tardies will be considered 1 absence counted towards exemptions for final exams and may result in ISS or DAEP placement

TELEPHONE

Students will not use the office phone for personal calls EXCEPT in EMERGENCY SITUATIONS and to get permission to leave school. Students will not be allowed to use cellular phones in District buildings during school hours unless approved by the building principal. Students will face disciplinary procedures if found using cell phones and subject to fines and confiscation of phone discussed earlier in handbook.

TESTING PROGRAMS (TAKS)

A student may be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter of the course or grade level. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive at least a grade of 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards.

Please be aware that, effective in the school years set out below, a student's satisfactory performance on TAKS examinations will be required for promotion. This requirement will be effective for the following students:

· Third graders in the 2002–2003 school year,

· Fifth graders in the 2004–2005 school year,

· Eighth graders in the 2007–2008 school year, and

· Eleventh graders in the 2003-2004 school year to graduate

Students who do not perform satisfactorily will have opportunities to participate in special instructional programs designed to help them improve their performance.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

Transfer students can and may have their transfers revoked for not complying with the Student Code of Conduct and the Student Handbook and/or unsuccessful grades during the approved grading period. Revocation may be immediate.

TRAVEL–-SCHOOL SPONSORED

Students on school-sponsored trips are representatives of GHS and should conduct themselves as ladies and gentlemen at all times. In addition, they shall abide by the following guidelines:

1. Students shall go in transportation provided by the school.

2. Students are expected to return in transportation provided by the school. If it is necessary for the student to return with their parents, the parent should contact the sponsor of the activity and request in writing that the student return with them. In an exceptional circumstance, a student will be allowed to return with an adult other than the parent, ONLY upon parental request made verbally AND in writing.

3. The student shall take responsibility for observing all safety rules while riding in school-provided transportation.

4. Students making a school-sponsored trip are under the supervision of a sponsor and shall abide by the rules and regulations of the GISD.

5. Students shall dress and groom in an appropriate manner.

TUTORIALS

Any student needing or desiring extra help in any subject, above and beyond what is provided, may make arrangements with the subject teacher for after school tutorials. The Graford school district will also provide tutorials after school after the first six weeks of the school year.

TRANSPORTATION

SCHOOL-SPONSORED

Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent makes a written request 24 hours in advance that the student be released to the parent or to another adult designated by the parent.

BUSES AND OTHER SCHOOL VEHICLES

The District makes school bus transportation available to all students living two or more miles from school. This service is provided at no cost to students. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school. Further information may be obtained by calling school office at 940-664-3161..

See the Student Code of Conduct for provisions regarding transportation to the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program.

Students are expected to assist District staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that transportation is provided safely. When riding in District vehicles, students are held to behavioral standards established in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct. Students must:

· Follow the driver’s directions at all times.

· Enter and leave the bus or van in an orderly manner at the designated stop nearest home.

· Keep feet, books, backpacks, and other objects out of the aisle.

· Not deface the bus, van, or its equipment.

· Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw objects within or out of the bus or van.

· Be seated while the vehicle is moving.

· Wait for the driver’s signal upon leaving the bus or van and before crossing in front of the vehicle.

When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be fastened at all times.

Misconduct will be punished in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct; bus-riding privileges may be suspended.

VEHICLES ON CAMPUS

Vehicles parked on school property must have valid parking passes and are under the jurisdiction of the school. The school reserves the right to search any vehicle if reasonable cause exists to do so. A student has full responsibility for the security of their vehicle and must make certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to others (see also the Student Code of Conduct). Students will be held responsible for any prohibited objects or substances and will be subject to disciplinary action as well as referral for criminal prosecution.

Students driving vehicles (with proof of driver’s licenses, license plate numbers and insurance in the office) to school are expected to follow safe driving procedures around the school and in the school parking lot. The speed limit in the parking lot is 5 miles per hour and 20 miles per hour in front of the school. Keep the assigned parking permit prominently displayed at all times the vehicle is parked on campus. Failure to abide by safe driving procedures may result in the loss of vehicle privileges.

Students are expected to park their vehicles in designated areas of the west parking lot and in front of the school. Curbs painted yellow mark areas reserved for staff and visitors parking. Students should not drive their vehicles during the school day, except during lunch, without permission from the principal. Any student needing to leave the campus during the school day for whatever reason must first check with the principal and/or designee.

VIDEOTAPING OF STUDENTS

For safety purposes, video/audio equipment will be used to monitor student behavior on buses (and in common areas on campus). Students will not be told when the equipment is being used.

The principal will review the tapes routinely and document student misconduct. Discipline will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

A parent who wants to view a videotape of the incident leading to the discipline of his or her child may request access in accordance with policy FL.

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

General Visitors

Parents and others are welcome to visit District schools. For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, it is required that all parents and visitors, first report to the principal’s office to verify destination and receive a visitor’s tag. No visitors under the age of 21 without a parent or guardian will be allowed to visit in classrooms without prior approval of the principal.

Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment.

All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be permitted.

Visitors Participating in Special Programs for Students

On High School Career Day, the District invites representatives from colleges and universities and other higher education institutions, prospective employers, and military recruiters to present information to interested students.

GLOSSARY

Accelerated instruction is an intensive supplemental program designed to address the needs of an individual student in acquiring the knowledge and skills required at his or her grade level.

ACT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams: the American College Test. The test may be a requirement for admission to certain colleges or universities.

ARD is the admission, review, and dismissal committee convened for each student who is identified as needing a full and individual evaluation for special education services. The eligible student’s parents are part of the committee.

Attendance Review Committee is responsible for reviewing a student’s absences when the student’s attendance drops below 90 percent of the days the class is offered. Under guidelines adopted by the Board, the committee will determine whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences and whether the student needs to complete certain conditions to master the course and regain credit lost because of absences.

DAEP stands for a disciplinary alternative education program, a placement for students who have violated certain provisions of the Student Code of Conduct. The DAEP will be separated from students not assigned to the program. It will focus on English language arts, mathematics, science, history, and self-discipline, and provide for students’ educational and behavior needs, as well as supervision and counseling.

FERPA refers to the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act that grants specific privacy protections to student records. The law contains certain exceptions, such as directory information, unless the student’s parent or a student 18 or older directs the school not to release directory information.

IEP is the written record of the Individualized Education Program prepared by the ARD committee for a student with disabilities who is eligible for special education services. The IEP contains several parts such as a statement of the student’s present educational performance; a statement of measurable annual goals, with short-term objectives; the special education and related services and supplemental aids and services, and program modifications or support for school personnel; a statement regarding how the student’s progress will be measured and how the parents will be kept informed; modifications to state or district wide tests, etc.

ISS refers to in-school suspension, a disciplinary technique for misconduct found in the Student Code of Conduct. Although different from out-of-school suspension and placement in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP), ISS removes the student from the regular classroom.

NCLBA is the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 that, along with other requirements for schools, provides information for parents and opportunities for “opting” their students out of certain activities or surveys.

Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) is a new state requirement for any student in middle school or higher who fails a section on a state-mandated assessment test or is determined by the District as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year after he or she begins grade 9.

SAT refers to the second of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams: the Scholastic Aptitude Test. The test may be a requirement for admissions to certain colleges or universities.

Section 504 is the federal law that prohibits discrimination against a student with a disability, requiring schools to provide opportunities for equal services, programs, and participation in activities. Unless the student is determined by an ARD committee to be eligible for special education services, appropriate regular educational services will be provided.

State assessment tests are required of students at certain grade levels and in specified subjects. Successful performance is a condition of promotion and the grade 11 exit-level test is a condition of graduation. Students have multiple opportunities to take the tests.

Alternate assessment tests, developed by the state, may be given to students in special education and students identified as limited English proficient.

Student Code of Conduct, developed with the advice of the District-level committee and adopted by the Board, identifies the circumstances, consistent with law, when a student may be removed from the classroom or campus. It also sets out the conditions that authorize or require the principal or another administrator to place the student in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. It outlines conditions for out-of-school suspension and for expulsion, and states whether self-defense is a consideration in suspension, DAEP placement, or expulsion. The Student Code of Conduct also addresses notice to the parent regarding a student’s violation of one of its provisions.

TAKS is short for the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, the state’s current standardized achievement test given to students in certain grade levels and subjects in grades 3–11.

UIL refers to the University Interscholastic League, the statewide voluntary non-profit organization that oversees educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contest.

		2008-2009
		BELL SCHEDULE
Junior	High		High	School
8:00 - 8:50	1st Period	Announcements	1st Period	8:00 - 8:50
8:55 - 9:40*	2nd Period	Break time*	2nd Period	8:55 - 9:40*
9:50 - 10:35	3rd Period		3rd Period	9:50 - 10:35
10:40 - 11:25	4th Period		4th Period	10:40 - 11:25
11:30 - 12:15	5th Period		5th Period	11:30 - 12:15
12:15 - 12:45	LUNCH		6th Period	12:15 - 1:00
12:50 - 1:35	6th Period		LUNCH	1:00 - 1:35
1:40 - 2:25	7th Period		7th Period	1:40 - 2:25
2:30 - 3:15	8th Period		8th Period	2:30 - 3:15

SEMESTER EXAM SCHUEDULES

Thursday-December 18, 2008 and Friday-May 29, 2009

1st period 8:00 - 9:05

3rd period 9:10 - 10:15

5th period 10:20 - 11:25

7th period 11:30 - 12:35

Friday-December 19, 2008 and Thursday-May 28, 2009

2nd period 8:00 - 9:05

4th period 9:10 - 10:15

6th period 10:20 - 11:25

8th period 11:30 - 12:35

(Lunch 12:35 - 1:00 p.m. -- Busses run at 1:00 p.m.)

All Students will remain in the exam for the entire exam time. Exams will not be given early unless approved by the principal.

APPENDIX II
ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM

State and federal law require the District to notify parents that you may object to the release of certain information about your child. After reading the following, please mark through any directory information on the form below that you do not want released and return the signed and dated form within ten school days of your child’s first day of instruction for this school year.

NOTICE TO PARENTS: DIRECTORY INFORMATION

"Certain information about District students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows the procedures for requesting the information unless the parent or guardian objects to the release of the directory information about the student. If you do not want Graford ISD to disclose directory information from your child's education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing within ten school days of my child’s first day of instruction for this school year Graford ISD has designated the following information as directory information: Student’s name, address, telephone listing, date of birth, dates of attendance, grade level, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and the weight and height of members of athletic teams.

To be in compliance with the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, the District will release to military recruiters and institutions of higher education, upon request, the name, address, and telephone listing of your child, unless you direct the District not to release this information without prior written consent, as indicated below.

The District [may/may not] release my child’s name, address, and telephone listing to military recruiters and institutions of higher education upon their request, without my prior written consent.

Except as noted below (under EXCEPTIONS), I direct the District not to release to any third party the following information without my prior written consent. I have marked through the items I do not want released.

1. Name

2. Address

3. Telephone listing

4. Date and place of birth

5. Photograph

6. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

7. Weight and height of members of athletic teams

8. Dates of attendance

9. Grade level

10. Enrollment status

11. Honors and awards received in school

12. Most recent previous school attended

13. E-mail address

EXCEPTIONS

For limited school-sponsored purposes (student recognition activities, yearbook or student newspaper, printed programs for extracurricular activities, news releases to local media), the District has my permission to release the following information.

Please mark through the items you do not want released.

1. Name

2. Address

3. Telephone listing

4. Date and place of birth

5. Photograph

6. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

7. Weight and height of members of athletic teams

8. Dates of attendance

9. Grade level

10. Enrollment status

11. Honors and awards received in school

12. Most recent previous school attended

13. E-mail address

Print name of student:

Signature of student:

Signature of parent:

Date:

APPENDIX III
ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM

My child and I have received a copy of the Graford Secondary Student Handbook.

Print name of student:

Signature of student:

Signature of parent:

Date: