Brookesmith

Independent School District

2009-2010

Student Handbook

BROOKESMITH SCHOOL SONG

Mustangs we love you, we want you to know.

That we’ll go with you wherever you go.

Mustangs we love you and right from the start,

Everyone knows that your doing your part

Whether you’re winning or whether you lose

We’ll go right with you wherever you choose.

Mustangs we love you. O team can’t you see?

That we’ll be loyal to thee!

Reviewed by the Brookesmith I.S.D. Board of Trustees

July 22, 2009

At Brookesmith I.S.D., it is our mission to produce responsible learners that are excited about their education and the future. We believe that creating successful students is a team effort and that the home, school, and the community each play a vital role in education. We want our future leaders to graduate completely prepared to meet the challenges and the high expectations of the 21^st century. We also want to produce life-long learners of high morals that will make a positive difference in the world.

To accomplish this task, Brookesmith I.S.D. will immerse our students in a loving, nurturing environment. We will be a safe place where highly trained teachers use innovative instructional methods to teach a rigorous curriculum. We will continue to emphasize technology, and use it to bring the world into our classrooms. Our school song speaks of unconditional love, and we will use that as a foundation for everything we do for our students.

1). Achievement – Students will perform at increasingly higher levels in all content areas

3). Parental Involvement – We will encourage parents to be actively involved in school. By promoting high expectations, parents will help reinforce positive student learning.

4). Student Discipline/Character – Discipline issues will be handled in a timely and supportive manner. Strong morals and values will be emphasized as a way to attain proper discipline.

5). Curriculum – We will emphasize an aligned curriculum where students are accurately assessed on a regular basis.

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, Brookesmith I.S.D. does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, 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 legal requirements:

¨ Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of gender: Bryan Swartz, whose office is located at 13400 FM 586 South, Brookesmith, Texas, and who can be reached by telephone by calling 325-643-3023 ext. 11.

¨ Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Cari Miller, whose office is located at13400 FM 586 South, Brookesmith, Texas, and who can be reached by telephone by calling 325-643-3023 ext. 18.

¨ All other concerns regarding discrimination: See the superintendent Bryan Swartz, whose office is located at 13400 FM 586 South, Brookesmith, Texas, and who can be reached by telephone by calling 325-643-3023 ext. 11.

The district’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations addressing asbestos, is available in the superintendent’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Bryan Swartz.

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’s school assignment area may contact Bryan Swartz.

Please take some time to review these notices and other important information contained in the Student Handbook.

Welcome to school year 2009–2010! Education is a team effort, and we know that students, parents, teachers, and other staff members all working together can make this a wonderfully successful year for our students.

The Brookesmith I.S.D. 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 two sections:

Section I—REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS—with notices that the district must provide to all parents, as well as other information to assist you in responding to school-related issues. We encourage you to take some time to closely review this section of the handbook; and

Section II—INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS—organized alphabetically by topic for quick access when searching for information on a specific issue.

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

Both students and parents should become familiar with the Brookesmith I.S.D. Student Code of Conduct, which is a document adopted by the board and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found as an attachment to this handbook and available in the principal’s office.

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 or other rules that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters or other communications.

In case of conflict between board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of the Student Handbook, the current provisions of board policy or the Student Code of Conduct are to be followed.

After reading through the entire handbook with your child, 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 the principal.

Also, please complete and return to your child’s campus the following required forms provided in the packet accompanying this handbook:

3. Release of Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Learning Form; and

[See Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights on page 12 and Directory Information on page 16 for more information.]

Please note that references to policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current board policy. A copy of the district’s policy manual is available for review in the school office or online at http://www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/025908/.

SECTION I: REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

This section of the Brookesmith I.S.D. Student Handbook includes several notices that the district is required to provide to you, as well as other information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

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

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Working Together

Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school. 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.

¨ Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects and 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.

¨ Discussing with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child.

¨ Reviewing the requirements of the graduation programs with your child, if your child is entering ninth grade.

¨ Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as needed. [See Academic Programs on page 22.]

¨ 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 325-646-3791 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 on page 42.]

¨ Becoming a school volunteer. For further information, see policies at GKG and contact Cari Miller.

¨ Serving 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 the principal.

¨ Serving on the School Health Advisory Council, assisting the district in ensuring local community values are reflected in health education instruction. [See policies at BDF, EHAA, FFA, and information in this handbook at School Health Advisory Council on page 37]

¨ Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations. [See policies at BE and BED for more information.]

PARENTAL RIGHTS

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:

¨ 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.

¨ 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(LEGAL).]

“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities

As a parent, you have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation 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 nonemergency, 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.]

Inspecting Surveys

As a parent, you may inspect a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to your child.

Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff

You may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers, including whether a 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.

Reviewing Instructional Materials

As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child. To review these materials, please contact the principal, who will make arrangements to provide you access to those materials at school during regular school hours.

Displaying a Student’s Artwork and Projects

The district will seek parental consent before displaying students’ artwork, special projects, photographs taken by students, and the like on the district’s Web site, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication.

Accessing Student Records

Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student

As a parent, you may grant or deny any written request from the district to make a video or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a video or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:

¨ When it relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or extracurricular activity; or

Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom

You may 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 if you provide a written statement authorizing the removal to your child’s teacher. 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.

Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags

As a parent, you may 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 minute of silence or silent activity that follows. [See Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence on page 41 and policy EC(LEGAL).]

Excusing a Student from Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence

You may 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(LEGAL).]

Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct

A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to his or her child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) or expulsion. [See policy FO(LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.]

Requesting Transfers for Your Child

¨ To request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been determined by the board or its designee 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 superintendent for information. [See policy FDB.]

¨ To request the 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 has been a victim of a violent criminal offense while at school or on school grounds. [See the district’s policy FDD(LOCAL), on School Safety Transfers.]

¨ To request the transfer of your child to a neighboring district if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether that assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. See the district’s policy FDD(LEGAL)and (LOCAL), on School Safety Transfers.]

As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and campus, you may request that they be placed either in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. Your written request must be submitted no later than the 14^th day after the enrollment of your children. [See FDB(LEGAL).]

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

Parents of 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, see Special Programs on page 45 and contact Cari Miller at 325-643-3023 extension #18.

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 academic or behavior support services that are available to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention. The implementation of Response to Intervention has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of school districts to meet the needs of all struggling 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 the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written 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 his or her rights if the parent disagrees 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 Cari Miller at 325-643-3023 extension #18.

Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district requirements including:

In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district.

Services for Title I Participants

The Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs is Dr. Jay Smith and may be contacted at 325-646-3791 extension #12.

Student Records

Both federal and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and eligible students certain rights of privacy. Before disclosing any personally identifiable information from a student’s records, the district must verify the identity of the person, including a parent or the student, requesting the information. For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.

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 the school is given a copy of a court order terminating parental rights or the right to access a student’s education records.

Federal law requires that, as soon as a student becomes 18, is emancipated by a court, or enrolls in a post-secondary institution, control of the records goes to the student. The parents may continue to have access to the records, however, if the student is a dependent for tax purposes and under limited circumstances when there is a threat to the health and safety of the student or other individuals.

¨ District school officials who have what federal law refers to as a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. School officials would include trustees and employees, such as the superintendent, administrators, and principals; teachers, counselors, diagnosticians, and support staff; a person or company with whom the district has contracted or allowed to provide a particular service or function (such as an attorney, consultant, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or volunteer); a parent or student serving on a school committee; or a parent or student assisting a school official in the performance of his or her duties. “Legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records includes working with the student; considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or an individualized education program for a student with disabilities; compiling statistical data; reviewing an educational record to fulfill the official’s professional responsibility; or investigating or evaluating programs.

¨ A school or institution of postsecondary education to which a student seeks or intends to enroll or in which he or she is already enrolled.

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 principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The superintendent 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. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.

A parent or eligible student who provides a written request and pays copying costs of ten cents per page may obtain copies. If circumstances prevent inspection during regular school hours and the student qualifies for free or reduced-price meals, the district will either provide a copy of the records requested or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review these records.

The District’s physical address is 13400 FM 586 South, Brookesmith, Texas, 76827

A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. A request to correct a student’s record should be submitted to the superintendent. The request must clearly identify the part of the record that should be corrected and include an explanation of how the information in the record is inaccurate. If the district denies the request to amend the records, the parent or eligible student has the right to request a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the parent or eligible student 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 found in policy FNG(LOCAL). A grade issued by a classroom teacher can be changed only if, as determined by the board of trustees, the grade is arbitrary, erroneous, or inconsistent with the district’s grading policy. [See FINALITY OF GRADES at FNG(LEGAL), Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences on page 42, and Student or Parent Complaints and Concerns on page 25 for an overview of the process.]

The district’s policy regarding student records found at FL(LEGAL) and (LOCAL) is available from the principal’s or superintendent’s office or on the district’s Web site at http://brookesmith.netxv.net/.

The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies of student records do not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records—such as a teacher’s 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.

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 complaint may be mailed to:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U. S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901

Directory Information

The law permits the district to designate certain personal information about students as “directory information.” This “directory information” will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it.

However, release of a student’s directory information 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 your child’s first day of instruction for this school year. [See the “Notice Regarding Directory Information and Parent’s Response Regarding Release of Student Information” included in the forms packet.]

Directory Information for School-Sponsored Purposes

The district often needs to use student information for the following school-sponsored purposes: publication in a student directory, a school yearbook, or official school publications including the school’s website and programs for school-sponsored events.

For these specific school-sponsored purposes, the district would like to use your child’s name; address; telephone listing; electronic mail address; photograph; degrees, honors, and awards received; grade level; most recent educational institution attended; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; and weight and height of members of athletic teams.

This information will not be used for other purposes without the consent of the parent or eligible student, except as described above at Directory Information.

Unless you object to the use of your child’s information for these limited purposes, the school will not need to ask your permission each time the district wishes to use this information for the school-sponsored purposes listed above.

Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education

The district is required by federal law to 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. A form has been attached for you to complete if you do not want the district to provide this information to military recruiters or institutions of higher education.

Bacterial Meningitis

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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 Department of State Health Services office to ask about a 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/.

SECTION II: INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information on academics, school activities, and school operations and requirements. Take a moment with your child to become familiar with the various issues addressed in this section. It is conveniently organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick-reference when you or your child has a question about a specific school-related issue. Should you be unable to find the information on a particular topic, please contact Dr. Jay Smith at 325-646-3791 extension #12.

ADMISSION AND RELEASE

1. The student must live in the district with a parent or legal guardian or one of the student’s parents must live in the district, even if the student does not live with that parent.

¨ To be eligible for admission based on just the parent’s residence in the district, the court that issued a final order in a divorce proceeding must have designated that parent as a managing or possessory conservator for the child.

¨ The parent enrolling a student based on only the parent’s residence in the district must provide a copy of a current final order, signed by the judge and showing a file stamp from the court, designating the parent as a managing or possessory conservator.

2. The student is under age 18 and lives in the district with an adult resident of the district who has accepted a Power of Attorney from the child’s parent or legal guardian. The school district has Power of Attorney forms to be completed by both the parent and the person the student lives with.

3. The student is under age 18 and does not reside in the district, but a grandparent who provides a substantial amount of after-school care for the person resides in the district. “Substantial amount of after-school care” means the grandparent provides after-school care for the student at least four days each school week.

4. Students under the age of 18 must be enrolled by a parent, legal guardian, or adult resident who has a valid Power of Attorney for the student. Students who are 18 or older, who are legally married, or who have ever been legally married, and who have not graduated from high school can enroll themselves.

5. The adult enrolling the student must present current immunization records or show proof that the required immunizations have begun.

6. No later than 30 days after a student has been enrolled, the adult enrolling the student must provide a copy of a birth certificate or other acceptable identification for the child and copies of the education records from the school the child last attended.

7. We do not admit underage students to school. Your child must be 5 years old on or before September 1 of the current school year to be admitted to kindergarten. To be admitted to first grade, your child must be 6 years old on or before September 1 of the current year or must have completed kindergarten, or been enrolled in first grade, in the public schools of another state.

8. We do not ordinarily admit overage students to school. However, a student who is 21 or younger and who has completed a GED program, but has not graduated from any high school, will be admitted. As part of our dropout recovery programs, we may admit someone between the ages of 21 and 26 for the purpose of completing the requirements for a high school diploma. A student admitted for this purpose and who has not attended school in the preceding three years will not be placed in a classroom setting, cafeteria, or other school-sanctioned activity with a student who is 18 or younger; however, those students remain free to attend all school-sponsored events that are open to the public.

9. Transfer students – The district has the right to revoke the transfer of a nonresident student for committing any violation outlined in the district’s Student Code of Conduct at any time.

10. Student’s Legal Name – While we recognize that there are circumstances when a parent may wish his or her child to be enrolled under a name other than the child’s legal name, we are required to maintain all school records for your child under the child’s legal surname as shown on the birth certificate or other recognized document to prove the child’s identity or as shown in a court order changing the child’s name.

The application for admission and enrollment forms are official government records and it is a crime to provide false information of any kind or false records for identification. School officials can ask parents or another adult enrolling a student to provide some evidence that they are bona fide residents of the school district. As required by law, we will record the name, address, and date of birth of the person enrolling a student. Penal Code 37.10, Education Code 25.001(h), 002(d)

If school officials have reason to question the legitimacy of a child’s residency information, they can investigate to determine the student’s actual place of residence. If the district finds that a student is not really a district resident, the student will be withdrawn, and school officials will take the necessary legal steps to recover the maximum tuition fee the school district can charge or the amount the board of trustees budgets as an expense per student.

Release during the School Day

A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning. Students will be allowed to leave school during the school day only with the permission of the principal, Superintendent or someone in the principal’s office who has been given the authority to release students. Parents cannot go directly to their children’s classroom and take the child away from school during the day. Teachers do not have the authority to let children leave their classroom with anyone. If you need to take your child from school before the end of the school day, such as for a medical appointment or a family emergency, you should go to the principal’s office and sign the child out. The teacher will send the child to the principal’s office, and she or he will be released to you at that time.

At the time children are enrolled, the parent or other adult completing the enrollment forms should list those people who are authorized to pick up children during the school day. Unless the principal has a current court order signed by a judge, showing an official file stamp with the court, and indicating that a parent’s right of access to and possession of his or her children has been limited in some way, the principal will release children to either parent.

Students will not ordinarily be released during the school day to participate in private lessons or other instruction. If you believe you have a special situation that would warrant an exception to this rule, please contact the campus principal to schedule a conference about your situation.

ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for a 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. They are discussed below.

Compulsory Attendance

State law requires that a student between the ages of six and 18 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt.

A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 18^th birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year and is subject to compulsory attendance laws, if the student is under 21 years old. In addition, 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 would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. [See FEA]

State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program when kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to such a program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading instrument.

A student in grades 3-8 will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or her grade level and applicable subject area.

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

A court of law may also impose penalties against both the student and his or her parents if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school. A complaint against the parent may be filed in 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

If the student is over age 18, the student’s parents shall not be subject to penalties as a result of their child’s violation of state compulsory attendance law. [See FEA(LEGAL)]

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 at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may receive credit for the class if he or she completes a plan, approved by the principal that allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student receives credit for the class.

If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed a plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate. [See policies at FEC]

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 the reasons listed below, beginning with Court Appearances, will be considered days of attendance for this purpose.

¨ A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or she has enrolled 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 a decision about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that it 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 board of trustees by filing a written request with the superintendent in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL).

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

Absences for required court appearances will be classified as excused absences upon presentation to the campus attendance official of a copy of the document requiring the student’s appearance in court, including those activities related to obtaining United States citizenship.

Parent’s Note After an Absence

When a student must be absent from school, the student—upon returning to school—must bring a note, signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older. The principal or someone acting for the principal will make the final decision whether an absence is classified as excused or unexcused. If the child does not bring a signed note, the absence will be classified as unexcused. Students will be permitted to make up missed work for credit if the absence is unexcused. The grade for make-up work after an unexcused absence shall be reduced by 31 points. EIAB( LOCAL)

Although students who are married are legally adults, this fact does not mean that they are not legally required to attend school until they are age 18.

Doctor’s Note After an Absence for Illness

Upon return to school, a student absent for more than 5 consecutive days because of a personal illness must bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence from school. [See FEC(LOCAL).]

Absences for documented health-care appointments, including absences for recognized services for students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, will be classified as excused absences.

Driver License Attendance Verification

For a student between the ages of 16 and 18 to obtain a driver license, the Texas Department of Public Safety must be provided written parental consent to access the student’s records ofr purposes of verifying 90 percent attendance for credit for the semester.

Students shall not be released from school to work except by permission granted from the Board. Only students who are seniors and have the recommendation of the administration shall be allowed to work during the school day. Students shall be passing all coursework and be able to graduate with their class. Students/parents shall apply through the principal for work permission. A letter from the student and employer shall be submitted 10 days prior to the Board meeting. The principal shall seek Board approval if he/she deems the request appropriate. FEF (LOCAL)

Absences for religious holy days, including up to two days of travel time if necessary, will be classified as excused absences.

Absences for students, who serve as election clerks with approval from the principal and parent, will be classified as excused absences.

Absences by students in grades 6-12 for the purpose of sounding “Taps” at a veteran’s funeral with military honors may be excused upon verification that the student provided the service noted.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The school counselor provides students and parents information regarding academic programs to prepare for higher education and career choices. [For more information, see policies at EIF.]

You can ask the school board to add a specific academic course to the schedule and offerings. If the administration and the board determine that the course is among those included in the State Board of Education-approved curriculum and that there is sufficient interest in the class to make it economically practical to offer the class, the request will not be unreasonably denied.

You can ask that your child be permitted to attend a class for credit above his or her grade level. If the counselor and child’s current and prospective teacher expect that the child can perform satisfactorily in the class, the request will not be unreasonably denied.

BULLYING

Bullying occurs when a student or group of students directs written or verbal expressions or physical conduct against another student and the behavior results in harm to the student or the student’s property, places a student in fear of harm to himself or his property, or is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment.

The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit bullying and to respond to reports of bullying. [See FFI(LOCAL).]

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

The district offers career and technology programs in, BCIS I, BCIS II, Accounting I, Accounting II, Desktop Publishing, Personal Skill Development in Agriculture, and Wildlife and Recreation Management. Admission to these programs is based on grade level, and prerequisites.

Brookesmith I.S.D. will take steps to ensure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.

As a parent, it is important for you to be aware of warning signs that could indicate a child may have been or

is being sexually abused. Sexual abuse in the Texas Family Code is defined as any sexual conduct harmful to

a child’s mental, emotional, or physical welfare as well as a failure to make a reasonable effort to prevent

sexual conduct with a child. Anyone who suspects that a child has been or may be abused or neglected has a

legal responsibility, under state law, for reporting the suspected abuse or neglect to law enforcement or to

Possible physical warning signs of sexual abuse could be difficulty sitting or walking, pain in the genital areas,

and claims of stomachaches and headaches. Behavioral indicators may include verbal references or pretend

games of sexual activity between adults and children, fear of being alone with adults of a particular gender, or

sexually suggestive behavior. Emotional warning signs to be aware of include withdrawal, depression,

A child who has experienced sexual abuse should be encouraged to seek out a trusted adult. Be aware as a

parent or other trusted adult that disclosures of sexual abuse may be more indirect than disclosures of

physical abuse, and it is important to be calm and comforting if your child, or another child, confides in you.

As a parent, if your child is a victim of sexual abuse, the campus counselor or principal will provide

information regarding counseling options for you and your child available in your area. The Texas

Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS) also manages early intervention counseling

http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Prevention_and_Early_Intervention/Programs_Available_In_Your_County/default.asp.

The Child Protective Services (CPS) division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services

CLASS RANK / TOP TEN PERCENT / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT

Final rank in class for purpose of determining valedictorian and salutatorian and honor graduates is calculated at the end of the fifth six-week grading period of the senior year.

Under state law, students who are ranked in the top 10% of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission to all Texas state colleges and universities, including The University of Texas system and the Texas A&M University system. For two school years following his or her graduation, a district student who graduates in the top ten percent of his or her class is eligible for automatic admission into four-year public universities and colleges in Texas if the student:

¨ Satisfies the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks or earns at least a 1500 out of 2400 on the SAT.

The University of Texas at Austin may limit the number of students automatically admitted to 75 percent of

Students and parents should contact the counselor or the principal for further information about the application process and deadlines. [For further information, see policies at EIC.]

Rank in class for purposes of determining which students are in the top 10% of their graduating class will be calculated at the end of the 11^th grade, middle of the 12^th grade, and at high school graduation. Students will use the latest ranking in relation to their college application deadlines. The number of students in the top 10% for automatic admission to a Texas college will not exceed the mathematical calculation of 10% of the number of students in the graduating class.

We use a weighted grade point/grade average system that is designed to recognize the relative difficulty and effort required for the course. The additional grade point(s) on the grade are used solely for ranking purposes and will not be reflected in the grades recorded on your child’s official transcript or Academic Achievement Record.

The valedictorian and salutatorian will be the highest and next highest ranking eligible student in the graduating class. Eligible students, who complete all requirements in three years, rather than the usual four years, will be ranked for graduation honors with students who have completed requirements in four years. The highest ranking graduate, who will be eligible to receive a scholarship for exemption from the first year of tuition at a state college or university, will be the person who has the highest rank in class, regardless of eligibility for the honor of valedictorian under our policies.

The valedictorian and salutatorian will be named at the end of the fifth six weeks in the twelfth (12) grade level. In the event of a tie, the American College Test (ACT) will be used to determine valedictorian and salutatorian. The student with the highest ACT score on a single administration of the test will be declared valedictorian. In the event a tie still exists, the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) will be used to determine valedictorian and salutatorian. The student with the highest SAT score on a single administration of the test would be declared valedictorian, only in the event of a tie.

To be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian a student must have been enrolled in Brookesmith I.S.D. for all of the last two (2) years in high school. Highest honor graduates who do not meet the residency requirements will be unofficially ranked. An estimated rank in class will be provided upon request from a college or university.

Grades received through credit by examination for acceleration, correspondence, credit by examination (with prior instruction), or end of course proficiency examination shall not be included with those used for the computation of grade average, class rank, and honor graduate status.

For determination of grade average, rank in class, an advanced graduate status including valedictorian and salutatorian, the semester grade for each course specified in the core curriculum areas will be converted to the following weights: Advanced Courses 3.0 to 6.0

All concurrent, dual enrollment and college courses that have a corresponding PEIMS number will be used to calculate GPA.

Eligible students whose class ranking places them in the top ten percent of their graduating class will be recognized as Honor Graduates.

Class Schedules

Students may request schedule changes after the first 3 days of classes, but no later than the end of the second week of school.

COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES

In addition to the programs offered by the district, Students in grades high school may earn college credit currently from the following: Howard College or Ranger College

Distance Learning or dual credit classes are offered through Howard College and Ranger College. It is highly recommended that students have an 85 average or better in regular high school classes to enroll in dual credit courses. To obtain college credit, students must be TAKS exempt or have passed certain areas of the THEA. Tuition, and fees, associated with distance learning classes are the responsibility of the student or parent; textbooks associated with distance learning classes are the responsibility of the District. Grades of 60-69 are considered a “D” at Howard College, and Ranger College, for the purposes of Brookesmith ISD only grades of 60-69 will be adjusted to a 70. Grades below 60 will not be considered passing by Howard College, Ranger College, or Brookesmith I.S.D., no credit will be awarded for the course and could cause a senior not to graduate. At any time students may be removed from distance learning class and returned to a regular high school class with no refund of payments. Behaviors that could cause removal may include, but not limited to, students who do not make payments, who are not passing the course, who are not keeping up with their assignments, have excessive absences or tardies, or having discipline problems with the facilitator or college professor. A $50 non-refundable deposit payable to Brookesmith I.S.D. is required to pre-register for these courses.

COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference with the teacher or principal. We realize that situations may arise when parents disagree with a decision that affects their child or believe that a policy has been improperly applied to their child. A number of these types of disputes or controversies have specific processes for pursuing those concerns. The principal can provide you with a copy of the relevant policies and procedures.

In general, all parent complaints should be brought initially to the teacher involved or the campus principal within 15 business days of the events or situation that you are concerned about. Often the problem can be resolved through an informal conference with the teacher or principal. On those occasions when a conference does not take care of problem, you should request a copy of the complaint policy. In order for your concern to be resolved at the earliest possible level, you should put your complaint in writing before meeting formally with the principal.

The principal will schedule a conference with you and give you a written response within 10 district business days after the conference. You will also have an opportunity for a conference with the superintendent if the principal has not resolved the matter. If the superintendent is not able to take care of the problem, you can make a written request for the Board of Trustees to consider the matter a future meeting.

Individual trustees cannot respond to parent complaints beyond referring the matter to the administration. Furthermore, the board of trustees will not permit complaints to be heard in the public comment or open forum portion of board meetings. In order for the board to take any action on a complaint, you must follow the complaint process established in policy. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the principal’s or superintendent’s office or on the district’s Web site at http://brookesmith.netxv.net/.

COMPUTER RESOURCES

To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, the district has made an investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these computer resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and 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 and their parents should be aware that e-mail and other electronic communications using district

computers are not private and will be monitored by district staff. [For additional information, see policies at

CONDUCT

Applicability of School Rules

As required by law, the board has adopted 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 these standards. The district has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Students and parents should be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules.

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 and policy FO(LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual.

Disruptions

¨ Interference with the movement of people at an exit, entrance, or hallway of a district building without authorization from an administrator.

¨ Interference with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building.

¨ Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly.

¨ Interference with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to district property.

¨ Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving district property without authorization from an administrator.

¨ Disruption of 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 loud or profane language or any misconduct.

¨ Interference with the transportation of students in vehicles owned or operated by the district.

Telecommunications Devices, Including Mobile Telephones

For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess telecommunications devices, including mobile telephones; however, these devices must remain turned off during the instructional day, including during all testing. The use of mobile telephones in locker rooms or restroom areas at any time while at school or at a school-related or school-sponsored event is strictly prohibited.

A student who uses a telecommunications device during the school day shall have the device confiscated. The parent may pick up the confiscated telecommunications device from the principal’s office for a fee of $15.

Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved by the student or student’s parents will be disposed of after the notice required by law. [See policy FNCE.]

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunications devices.

Other Electronic Devices

Students are not permitted to possess such items as radios, CD players, MP3 players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, games, or other electronic devices at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items.

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device.

Students are prohibited from sending or posting electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually

oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition applies to

conduct off school property if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment. Any

person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal

images or photographs will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct and may, in certain

Social Events

School rules apply to all school social events. Guests attending these events are expected to observe the same rules as students, and a student inviting a guest will share responsibility for the conduct of his or her 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.

CONTAGIOUS DISEASES / CONDITIONS

Although we want your child to attend school every day, we do not want your child at school if she or he has a communicable disease or is running a fever of 100° or more. Under State and local Health Department regulations, if your child has certain medical conditions, she or he must be excluded from school for a period of time. To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. Parents of a student with a communicable or contagious disease should phone the school nurse so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. These diseases include:

Amebiasis	Impetigo	Salmonellosis, including typhoid fever
Campylobacteriosis	Infectious mononucleosis	Salmonellosis, including typhoid fever
Chicken pox (varicella)	Influenza	Scabies
Common cold with fever	Measles (Rubeola)	Shigellosis
Fifth disease (Erythema Infectiosum)	Meningitis, Bacterial	Streptococcal disease, invasive (group A or B)
Fifth disease (Erythema Infectiosum)	Mumps	Streptococcal disease, invasive (group A or B)
Gastroenteritis, Viral	Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis)	Tuberculosis, Pulmonary
Giardiasis	Ringworm of the scalp	Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Head Lice (Pediculosis)	Rubella (German Measles), including congenital
Hepatitis A (acute)	Rubella (German Measles), including congenital

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

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

COUNSELING

Academic Counseling

Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn more about course offerings, graduation requirements, and early graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades 8 through 11 will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next school year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.

To plan for the future, each student should work closely with the counselor in order to enroll in the high school courses that best prepare him or her for attendance at a college, university, or training school, or for pursuit of some other type of advanced education. The counselor can also provide information about entrance exams and application deadlines, 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 go to the principal’s office to schedule an appointment.

Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment

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

CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Taken the Course

A student who has previously taken 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 that course or subject. Prior instruction may include, for example, incomplete coursework due to a failed course or excessive absences, homeschooling, correspondence courses, or independent study supervised by a teacher.

The counselor or principal would determine if the student could take an exam for this purpose. If approval is granted, the student must score at least 70 on the exam to receive credit for the course or subject.

The attendance review committee may also 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.

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 had no prior instruction. The dates on which exams are scheduled during the 2009–2010 school year include:

September 29, November 3, December 15, 2009, February 9, April 8, and May 11, 2010.

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. If the district agrees to administer a test other than the one chosen by the district, the parent must purchase a test from a university approved by the State Board of Education. [For further information, see EEJB(LOCAL).]

Brookesmith I.S.D. operates a full-day Kindergarten thru 12 program that meets all state curriculum requirements. Schools are organized by grade level, elementary (K thru grade 8), and high school (grades 9 thru 12).

The State Legislature has designated August 26 as Women’s Independence Day. Women’s Independence Day will be observed by appropriate programs to inspire a greater appreciation of the importance of woman’s suffrage.

Celebrate Freedom Week shall be observed the week in which November 11 falls. During this week all social studies classes in grades 3-12 shall include instruction concerning the intent, meaning and importance of the Declaration of Independence, and the United States Constitution in their historical contexts. The State Board of Education has adopted 19 TAC 74.33 which requires a specific recitation from the Declaration of Independence. To request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week (1) 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 the representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity.

Classroom Celebrations

You or a grandparent may provide any food product of your choice to your child and his or her classmates on the occasion of the child’s birthday or for any other school-designated function, such as class parties, bake sales, etc.

DATING VIOLENCE, DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, AND RETALIATION

The district believes that all students learn best in an environment free from dating violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and that their welfare is best served when they are free from this prohibited conduct while attending school. Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid 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, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. [See policy FFH (LEGAL) & FFH (LOCAL)]

Dating Violence

Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past dating relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control the other person in the relationship. This type of conduct is considered harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance.

Examples of dating violence against a student may include, but are not limited to, physical or sexual assaults, name-calling, put-downs, threats to hurt the student or the student’s family members or members of the student’s household, destroying property belonging to the student, threats to commit suicide or homicide if the student ends the relationship, attempts to isolate the student from friends and family, stalking, or encouraging others to engage in these behaviors.

Discrimination

Discrimination is defined as any conduct directed at a student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law, that negatively affects the student.

Harassment

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; creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; 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 or on the district’s Web site.

Examples of harassment may include, but are not limited to, offensive or derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; threatening or intimidating conduct; offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment of a student by an employee, volunteer, or another student is prohibited.

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, romantic and other inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and district employees are prohibited, even if consensual.

Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include, but not be limited to, 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.

Retaliation

Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of discrimination or harassment, including dating violence, is prohibited. Retaliation against a person who is participating in an investigation of alleged discrimination or harassment is also prohibited. A person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a district investigation, however, may be subject to appropriate discipline.

Retaliation against a student might occur when a student receives threats from another student or an employee or when an employee imposes an unjustified punishment or unwarranted grade reduction. Retaliation does not include petty slights and annoyances from other students or negative comments from a teacher that are justified by a student’s poor academic performance in the classroom.

Reporting Procedures

Any student who believes that he or she has experienced dating violence, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other district employee. The report may be made by the student’s parent. See policy FFH(LOCAL) for the appropriate districts officials to whom to make a report.

Investigation of Report

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 of prohibited conduct, which includes dating violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, will be promptly investigated. The district will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited conduct involving an adult associated with the district.

In the event prohibited conduct involves another student, the district will notify the parents of the student alleged to have experienced the prohibited conduct when the allegations, if proven, would constitute a violation as defined by policy.

If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited conduct occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the conduct. The district may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint was not unlawful.

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

DISCRIMINATION

[See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page 29.]

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials

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

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

Nonschool Materials...from students

Students must obtain prior approval from the principal before posting, circulating, or distributing 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. To be considered, any nonschool material must include the name of the sponsoring person or organization. The decision regarding approval will be made within two school days.

Each campus has an area in the school where nonschool publications or material that have been approved by the principal can be made available to the students. Students are not permitted to distribute nonschool publications or materials in the classroom or hallways. [See policies at FNAA.]

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

Nonschool 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 for distribution, any nonschool material must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, include the name of the sponsoring person or organization, and be submitted to the superintendent or principal for prior review. The superintendent or 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 policies at DGBA, FNG, or GF.]

¨ 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) or a noncurriculum-related student group meeting held in accordance with FNAB(LOCAL).

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

All nonschool materials distributed under these circumstances must be removed from district property immediately following the event at which the materials are distributed.

DRESS AND GROOMING

We expect students to come to school in clothes that are clean and neat, and we expect students to exhibit basic cleanliness and grooming that will not be a health or safety threat to themselves or to other students or staff. While we understand students’ desire to express themselves in their clothing and grooming styles, we do not permit students to wear clothing with pictures, emblems, or writing that is lewd, offensive, vulgar, or obscene or that advertises or depicts tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or any other substance that students are prohibited from having or using at school. Students and parents may determine a student’s personal dress and grooming standards, provided that they comply with the following:

¨ Shall not lead school officials to believe that such dress or grooming will disrupt, interfere, disturb or distract from the educational process of the school.

¨ Hair should be kept neat, clean and out of eyes. Mohawks, shaved designs, and unnatural hair colors will not be permitted.

¨ No see through mesh shorts or shirts, spaghetti straps, halter tops, bare midriffs, biker shorts or any garments that expose underwear.

¨ No caps/hats worn inside of buildings during regular school hours or immediately following school

¨ Visible body piercing is prohibited except for ear piercing by female students.

The administration has the authority to allow all or part of the student body to vary from the dress code and establish a particular mode of attire for special occasion days or for particular school-sponsored or school-related activities. The administration makes decisions about dress and grooming violations. If your child comes to school wearing clothes that violate the dress code or in any other way violates our dress and grooming standards, she or he can be placed in in-school suspension until she or he is in compliance. We will make efforts to notify you as soon as possible, and if the student changes clothes or otherwise comes into compliance with the dress and grooming standards, he or she will return to regular classes immediately.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS,

AND ORGANIZATIONS

Participation in school-sponsored 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. We offer a variety of school-related extracurricular activities and encourage students to participate in those that are of interest to them. Although most extracurricular activities are designed for secondary students, those in grades 6-12, we encourage elementary age students to participate in UIL Academic activities and competitions.

To ensure the health and safety of our student athletes and others who participate in extracurricular activities, we have implemented a random drug-testing program. At the time your child expresses an interest in participation in an activity subject to the drug-testing program, you and your child will receive complete information about the program, which is a requirement for participation in affected activities. Please contact the high school principal if you would like more information about this program. To participate in any extracurricular activity students must agree to comply with the District’s Drug Testing Policy (policy included as a separate section in this handbook).

Students who participate in UIL athletic activities will be subject to random testing for the presence of illegal steroids as required by UIL rules and regulations.

Eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law and the 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 an advanced placement or international baccalaureate course; or an honors or dual credit course in English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, or a foreign language—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.

¨ A student is allowed in a school year up to 10 absences not related to post-district competition, a maximum of 5 absences for post-district competition prior to state, and a maximum of 2 absences for state competition. All extracurricular activities and public performances, whether UIL activities or other activities approved by the board, are subject to these restrictions.

¨ An absence for 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 cheerleaders, 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’s standards of behavior.

[For further information, see policies at FM and FO. For student-organized, student-led groups, see Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups on page 46.]

Offices and Elections

Each class (6-12) will elect class officers and members to the student council during the first or second week of the 2009 – 2010 school year.

FEES

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds 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:

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

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

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

¨ Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require use of facilities not available on district

¨ 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 policies at FP.]

FUND-RAISING

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

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

GRADING GUIDELINES

In grades 2-12, achievement is reported to parents as: 100-90 = A, 89-80 = B, 79-70 = C, 69 or below F. Students taking distance learning classes and receiving a grade of 60 or above will earn high school credit for the classes. It will be up to the accepting college or university whether they accept a 60 for college credit.

Course credit will be awarded for each course based on the average of the 2 semesters. Juniors and seniors who maintain an average of 80 or above for the semester and have 3 or fewer absences per semester will be exempt from final exams; for purposes of exam exemptions, 3 tardies will be considered as one absence.

With the report of grades for the first grading period of the school year, we will inform you of the most recent performance rating of your child’s campus under the state’s Academic Excellence Indicator System, along with a definition and explanation of each performance rating.

GRADUATION

Requirements for a Diploma

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 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, World History, and World Geography. A student who does not pass the exit-level assessment will have additional opportunities to take the test.

Graduation Programs

The district offers the graduation programs listed below. All students entering grade 9 are required to enroll in the Recommended High School Program or Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program. Permission to enroll in the Minimum Graduation Program will be granted only if a written agreement is reached among the student, the student’s parent or person standing in parental relation, and the counselor or appropriate administrator. In order for a student to take courses under the Minimum Program, the student must be at least 16 years of age; have completed at least two credits each in English language arts, math, science, and social studies courses that are required for graduation; or have failed grade 9 one or more times. [See policy EIF(LEGAL).]

Students who entered the ninth grade during the 2006–2007 (this year’s seniors) school year must meet the following credit requirements for graduation:

Students who began the ninth grade in the 2007-08 school year must complete the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement/Advanced Program described below unless you, your child, and the counselor or principal agree that your child should be permitted to take courses under the Minimum Program:

¨ The District requires no additional credits for graduation under the Distinguished Achievement Program beyond those mandated by the state.

o The Distinguished Achievement/Advanced Program is similar to the Recommended Program with the following differences and additional requirements:

For the Advanced (Distinguished Achievement) Program, students must also receive any combination of four of the following advanced measures that are assessed through an external review process:

¨ Grade point of 3.0 or higher in courses that count for college credit, including tech prep programs.

¨ PSAT that qualifies student for recognition as Commended Scholar or higher than; as part of National Hispanic Scholar Program; or as part of National Achievement Scholar Program for Outstanding Negro Students (maximum 1 advanced measure).

¨ Original research/project related to the required curriculum that is judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is the focus of the project or conducted under direction of mentor(s) and reported to an appropriate audience (maximum 2 advanced measures).

Certificates of Coursework Completion

A certificate of coursework completion will not be issued to a senior student who successfully completes state and local credit requirements for graduation but fails to perform satisfactorily on the exit-level tests.

Students with Disabilities

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

A student who receives special education services and has completed four years of high school, but has not met the requirements of his or her IEP, may participate in graduation ceremonies and receive a certificate of attendance. Even if the student participates in graduation ceremonies to receive the certificate of attendance, he or she may remain enrolled to complete the IEP and earn his or her high school diploma; however, the student will only be allowed to participate in one graduation ceremony.

Graduation Exercises

Graduation exercises are held at the end of the school year. With one legally required exception, only those students who have completed all state and local requirements, including passing the TAKS Exit-Level examinations or fulfilling state requirements for cumulative scores on end-of-course examinations, for receiving a diploma are eligible to participate in graduation exercises. All students who have completed all graduation requirements, whether in three years or four years, are eligible to participate in graduation exercises. A certificate of course completion will not be issued to a senior who successfully completes state and local credit requirements for graduation, but fails to perform satisfactorily on the exit-level tests. FMH (LOCAL).

State law requires that we permit a student with disabilities who has completed four years of high school but has not completed all requirements for graduation under the student’s individualized program to participate in graduation exercises if they wish to. Students may participate in only one graduation exercise.

Participation in graduation exercises is a privilege, not a right, and students who do not comply with dress, grooming, and conduct standards for the rehearsal and ceremony will be removed from the ceremony.

Graduating students who are assigned to the district’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program through the end of school year and successfully complete their term of assignment in the DAEP without further disciplinary action may be allowed to take part in graduation ceremonies. That decision rests with the principal and cannot be appealed.

The graduation ceremony is a solemn event commemorating a milestone achievement in the lives of our graduates. The planning and execution of the ceremony is under the joint control of the graduating class, which will decide on the basic organization and components of the ceremony, and the administration, which will exercise editorial review and approval of the speeches and other comments to be delivered by the Valedictorian and Salutatorian and any other students. It is up to the graduating class to obtain permission to play their graduation song.

Graduation Speakers

The District has created a limited public forum consisting of an opportunity for a student to speak to begin graduation ceremonies and another student to speak to end graduation ceremonies. For each speaker, the District shall set a maximum time limit reasonable and appropriate to the occasion. Two students who are members of the junior class and are elected by the graduating class shall be eligible to use the limited public forum. Only those two students who are members of the junior class and are elected by the graduating class shall be eligible to give these remarks; however, if the student was assigned to disciplinary placement at any time during the spring semester, he or she will not be eligible to speak at graduation. Students eligible to give the opening and closing remarks will be notified by the principal and given an opportunity to volunteer.

In addition to the students giving the opening and closing remarks, the valedictorian and salutatorian may have speaking roles at graduation ceremonies. For each speaker, the District shall set a maximum time limit reasonable and appropriate to the occasion and to the position held by the speaker. For this purpose, the District creates a limited public forum for these students to deliver the addresses. The subject of the addresses shall be related to the purpose of the graduation ceremony, marking and honoring the occasion, honoring the participants and those in attendance, and the student's perspective on purpose, achievement, life, school, graduation, and looking forward to the future [See FNA(LOCAL)].

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. [See Student Fees on page 33.]

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 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 Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program may be eligible under the T.E.X.A.S. 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(LEGAL).]

HARASSMENT

[See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page 29.]

HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS

Physical Activity for Students in Elementary and Middle School

In accordance with policies at EHAB, EHAC, and FFA, the district will ensure that students in kindergarten through grade 5 engage in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least 30 minutes per day or 135 minutes per week.

Students in middle or junior high school shall engage in 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per day for at least four semesters

For additional information on the district’s requirements and programs regarding elementary, middle, and junior high school student physical activity requirements, please see the principal.

School Health Advisory Council

During the preceding school year, the district’s School Health Advisory Council held 2 meetings. Additional information regarding the district’s School Health Advisory Council is available from the principal. [See also policies at BDF and EHAA.]

Physical Fitness Assessment

Annually, the district will conduct a physical fitness assessment of students in grades 3–12. At the end of the school year, a parent may submit a written request to the district’s Athletic Director to obtain the results of his or her child’s physical fitness assessment conducted during the school year.

Vending Machines

The district has adopted policies and implemented procedures to comply with state and federal food service guidelines for restricting student access to vending machines. For more information regarding these policies and guidelines see the superintendent. [See policies at CO and FFA.]

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 and at school-sponsored and school-related activities. [See the Student Code of Conduct and policies at FNCD and 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 Bryan Swartz.

Pest Management Plan

HOMELESS STUDENTS

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 Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Immunization Branch, can be honored by the district. This form may be obtained by writing the DSHS Immunization Branch (MC 1946), P.O. Box 149347, Austin, Texas 78714-9347; or online at https://webds.dshs.state.tx.us/immco/affidavit.shtm. The form must be notarized and submitted to the principal or school nurse within 90 days of notarization. If the parent is seeking an exemption for more than one student in the family, a separate form must be provided for each student.

The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella (German measles), mumps, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis (polio), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, varicella (chicken pox) and meningococcal. 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 established by 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 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(LEGAL) and the Department of State Health Services Web site: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default.shtm.]

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 cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation. In other circumstances:

¨ 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.

Students Taken Into Custody

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

¨ By a 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.

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 raises 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 student’s release to a law enforcement officer, any notification will most likely be after the fact.

Notification of Law Violations

¨ 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 is required to register as a sex offender or who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.

Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Personal Items

We ask that you discourage your child from wearing or bringing to school expensive or irreplaceable jewelry, watches, sunglasses, or personal clothing that may be removed during the days, such as winter coats. Students are responsible for all their personal possessions while at school or any school-sponsored or school-related event. It is important that you understand the school district is not responsible for any personal items that are lost, damaged, or stolen at school or a school-related activity.

MAKEUP WORK

Routine and In-depth Makeup Work Assignments Because of Absence

For any class missed, the teacher may assign the student makeup work 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(LOCAL).]

A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.

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

DAEP Makeup Work

A student removed to a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete, before the beginning of the next school year, a foundation curriculum course in which the student was enrolled at the time of removal. The district may provide the opportunity to complete the course through an alternative method, 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(LEGAL).]

In-school Suspension Makeup Work

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. The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district. [See policy FO(LEGAL).]

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:

¨ Only authorized employees, in accordance with policies at FFAC, may administer:

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

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

· Herbal or dietary supplements provided by the parent only 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 or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication at school or school-related events only if he or she has written authorization from his or her parent and a physician or other licensed health-care provider. The student must also demonstrate to his or her physician or health-care provider and to Mrs. Boenicke the ability to use the prescribed medication, including any device required to administer the medication.

If the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication for use during the school day, the student and parents should discuss this with Mrs. Boenicke or the principal.

In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, developed in collaboration with you and, if possible, your child’s physician; 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.

Psychotropic Drugs

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

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 are not permitted to 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. [For further information, see policies at FFAC.]

Parking/Driving at School

Parking permits will be available in the principal’s office free of charge. No permits will be issued to students without the submission of a copy of a valid Texas Driver’s license and proof of financial responsibility. The permit must be displayed on the front windshield of the vehicle on the driver’s side. Vehicles without permits will be given one warning; a second violation will result in the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense. If a student drives a vehicle to school that does not have a parking permit, that student is responsible for coming to the principal’s office and receive a temporary parking permit. The temporary permit will be displayed from the rear view mirror.

Students driving cars to school are subject to all state and local traffic laws and regulations while they are on school property and must practice courteous and safe driving habits around school. The principal will establish student parking areas, and students must park only in those designated areas.

PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF SILENCE

Each school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge. [See Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags on page 13.]

One minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. Each student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity during that minute so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others. [See policy EC(LEGAL) 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 encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

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, the recommendation of the student’s teacher, the score received on any

criterion-referenced or state-mandated assessment, and any other necessary academic information as

determined by the district. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of at least 70 based on course- level or grade-level standards.

The District permits high school students to take correspondence courses (courses by mail) for credit toward high school graduation. A maximum of 2 credits may be earned through correspondence courses. For further information, see policy EEJC

In grades 1-8, promotion to the next grade level shall be based on an overall average of 70 on a scale of 100 based on course-level, grade-level standards (essential knowledge and skills) for all subject areas and a grade of 70 or above in three of the following areas: language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.

Grade-level advancement for students in grades 9-12 shall be earned by course credits. [See policies at EI.]

Once again, the statewide assessment program is in transition. Students and parents will be informed of changes in the program affecting them as those changes are implemented. The current transition will eventually eliminate TAKS for high school students and implement instead a state-developed end-of-course examination in core curriculum courses. Students in grades 3-8 will continue to be assessed using TAKS.

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 6, students enrolled in grade 5 must perform satisfactorily on the mathematics and reading sections of the grade 5 assessment in English or Spanish.

¨ In order to be promoted to grade 9, students enrolled in grade 8 must perform satisfactorily on the mathematics and reading sections of the grade 8 assessment in English.

Parents of a student in grades 3- 8 who does not perform satisfactorily on his or her exams will be notified that their child will participate in special instructional programs designed to improve performance. The student may be required to participate in this instruction before or after normal school hours or outside of the normal school year.

A student in grades 5 or 8 will have two additional opportunities to take a failed assessment. If a 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 that 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 a grade level by the end of the next school year. [See policies at EIE.]

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.

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 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, among other items, identify the student’s educational goals, address the parent’s educational expectations for the student, and outline an intensive instruction program for the student. [For additional information, see the counselor and policy EIF(LEGAL).]

We will seek and obtain your written consent before conducting any psychological examination, test, or treatment of your child, unless the examination is part of an investigation by Child Protective Services in response to a report of known or suspected child abuse or neglect. If the examination or test is part of the comprehensive assessment to see if your child needs special education or related services, before we obtain consent, on your request, we will provide you with information about the name and type of examination and how the examination will be used to develop an appropriate individualized program for your child.

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 6 weeks.

At the end of the first three weeks of a grading period, parents will be given a written progress report if their child’s performance in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies is near or below 70, or is below the expected level of performance. If the student receives a grade lower than 70 in any class or subject at the end of a grading period, the parent will be requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject. [See Working Together on page 11 for how to schedule a conference.]

Teachers establish their grading standards, including penalties for late work, but those standards must be consistent with guidelines approved by the campus principal and Board policy, and are designed to reflect each student’s relative mastery of each assignment academic achievement for the grading period, semester, or course. Currently, late work is graded as follows: 1 day late – 11 points off, 2 days late – 21 points off, and 3+ days – 31 points off. If you have a question about a grade your child receives on an assignment, you should talk first with the teacher. An exam or course grade issued by the teacher is final and will not be changed unless we determine that it was arbitrary, erroneous, or not consistent with the grading standards and policy.

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(LOCAL).]

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).

RETALIATION

[See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page 29.]

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 ensuring school safety. A student should:

¨ 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 any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus or threats made by any person toward a student or staff member.

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

Accident Insurance

Soon after the school year begins, parents will have the opportunity to purchase low-cost accident insurance that would help meet medical expenses in the event of injury to their child. You may also purchase a policy that covers the student 24 hours a day. The school district is not the policyholder for this insurance; if you decide that additional protection would be a benefit and protection to your and your family, the contract is between you and the insurance company. We are authorized to and do purchase accident insurance for students who participate in interscholastic athletic practice and competition.

Drills: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies

From time to time, students, teachers, and other district employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.

Fire Drill Bells

Tornado Drill Bells

Emergency Medical Treatment and Information

We will promptly attempt to notify you or a person you have authorized us to notify if we have knowledge that your child has been injured at school or has become ill at school. We have trained aides available and an area where your child can stay if she or he is injured or becomes ill.

If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school would 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. It is important, however, that you understand that the school district is not responsible for any cost of medical treatment or services provided after an injury at school or a school-related activity. We cannot and will not use public funds to pay individual student medical expenses.

Emergency School-Closing Information

School closing information will be broadcast on local radio and television stations.

SAT, ACT, AND OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTS

Many 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; these 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 a standardized test, such as the Texas Higher Education Assessment [THEA]).

In the 2009 – 2010 school year, the district will pay for and administer the following tests:

High school students can get registration and test preparation materials for the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT), the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT), and the American College Test (ACT) from the high school counselor.

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.

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 rehearsals, club meetings, athletic practices, 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 standards of behavior established by the sponsor for extracurricular participants.

Use of Hallways During Class Time

Loitering or standing in the halls during class 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

We serve a variety of nutritious food for students and faculty members at a nominal cost. We do not allow foods of minimal nutritional value, as defined by the federal Child Nutrition program, to be served or available for purchase in food service and eating areas during the time students are being served meals.

Students must follow directions for entering the cafeteria and observe good table manners and courteous behavior at all times, i.e., no cutting in line. Wearing hats in the cafeteria, loud talking, and unnecessary noise are considered poor manners and may result in disciplinary action.

Students pay for their lunches either with cash or a check. No charges will be allowed for the 2009-2010 school year, we do not allow any students to charge meals.

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(LEGAL).]

Our schools participate in the federal Child Nutrition Programs, which provide free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs to students based on family income levels. We maintain strict confidentiality as to whether students participate in the program. If you would like more information about the program or an application, please contact the Director of Food Services, Linda Barksdale, or refer to policy CO.

Library Facilities, Hours, and Access

Our school has a library available for student research and study, with resources appropriate for needs of the grades served by the district. Students have access to the library during the school day and during posted hours before and after school.

If you have a concern about library materials available to your child, please contact the librarian, teacher, or the principal. We have a policy and process that will allow you to explain your concerns and reach an understanding about your child’s access to the questioned materials.

Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups

Student-organized, student-led noncurriculum-related groups are permitted to meet during the hours designated by the principal before and after school. Meetings of these groups must be student-initiated and student-run. School employees cannot be sponsors of these groups, and adults from outside the school system cannot direct, conduct, control, or regularly attend these meetings.

SEARCHES

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.

Students’ Desks and Lockers

Students’ desks and lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student.

Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of their assigned desks and lockers. Students must be certain that their lockers are locked, and that the combinations are not available to others.

Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by policy, whether or not a student is present.

The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker.

Vehicles on Campus

Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. School officials may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the permission of the student. A student has full responsibility for the security and content of his or her 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.]

Trained Dogs

The district will use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used around lockers and the areas around vehicles parked on school property. Searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings may also be conducted by trained dogs when students are not present. An item in a classroom, a locker, or a vehicle to which a trained dog alerts may be searched by school officials.

Drug-Testing

[For further information, see policy FNF(LOCAL). Also, see Steroids, below.]

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The district provides special programs for gifted and talented students, homeless students, bilingual students, 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 Cari Miller @ 325-643-3023 extension #18.

STEROIDS

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. Random steroid testing may occur at Brookesmith during 2009-2010 school year. Students that test positive will have the following state mandated consequences:

3^rd positive test – suspended from UIL athletic competition for the remainder of their high school career

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

STUDENT SPEAKERS

The District hereby creates a limited public forum for student speakers at all school events at which a student is to publicly speak. For each speaker, the District shall set a maximum time limit reasonable and appropriate to the occasion.

For purposes of this policy, a “school event” is a school-sponsored event or activity that does not constitute part of the required instruction for a segment of the school’s curriculum, regardless of whether the event takes place during or after the school day.

For purposes of this policy, “to publicly speak” means to address an audience at a school event using the student’s own words. A student is not using his or her own words when the student is reading or performing from an approved script, is delivering a message that has been approved in advance or otherwise supervised by school officials, or is making brief introductions or announcements.

Certain students who have attained special positions of honor in the school have traditionally addressed school audiences from time to time as a tangential component of their achieved positions of honor, such as the captains of various sports teams, student council officers, class officers, homecoming kings and queens, prom kings and queens, and the like, and have attained their positions based on neutral criteria. Nothing in this policy eliminates the continuation of the practice of having these students, regardless of grade level, address school audiences in the normal course of their respective positions.

The District shall create a limited public forum for the speakers and shall treat a student's voluntary expression of a religious viewpoint, if any, on an otherwise permissible subject in the same manner the District treats a student's voluntary expression of a secular or other viewpoint on an otherwise permissible subject and shall not discriminate against a student based on a religious viewpoint expressed by the student on an otherwise permissible subject. [See FNA(LOCAL).]

TAKS (TEXAS ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS)

In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state-mandated assessments (such as TAKS: the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) in the following subjects:

TARDY POLICY

¨ On third tardy student will be sent to the office, he/she will be assigned one lunch detention

¨ On fourth tardy student will be sent to the office, he/she will be assigned two lunch detentions

¨ On fifth tardy student will be sent to the office, he/she will be assigned three lunch detentions

¨ On sixth tardy student will be sent to the office, he/she will be assigned to one day of In School Suspension

¨ On seventh tardy student will be sent to the office, he/she will be assigned to two days of In School Suspension

¨ On eighth tardy student will be sent to the office, he/she will be assigned to three days of In School Suspension

School telephones are for school business use. Students will be permitted to use school telephones only for emergencies and only with permission. If you call for your child during the school day, we will take a message and deliver it to the student at the end of the class period or other time that will least interfere with instruction.

State-approved textbooks are provided to students free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be

covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. Electronic textbooks and technological

equipment may also be provided to students, depending on the course and course objectives. A student who is

issued a damaged item should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return an item in acceptable condition loses the right to free textbooks and technological equipment until the item is returned or paid for by the parent; however, the student will be provided textbooks and equipment for use at school during the school day. See CMD(LEGAL).

TRANSFERS

[See Requesting Transfers for Your Child, on page 14, and Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education, on page 14, for other transfer options.]

TRANSPORTATION

School-Sponsored Trips

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 that the student be released to the parent or to another adult designated by the parent.

Buses and Other School Vehicles

We provide transportation on school buses to and from school for those children who live more than 2 miles away from the school. Students are required to comply with rules for conduct on school buses and to comply with the Student Code of Conduct while at authorized school bus stops waiting for the bus.

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:

¨ 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.

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

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

The District provides a school bus that stops at the County Fairgrounds in Brownwood. An alternate site to this stop will be provided during the Youth Fair in January.

See the Student Code of Conduct for provisions regarding transportation to the disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP).

VANDALISM

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 for years to come—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.

VIDEO CAMERAS

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

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

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

General Visitors

Parents and others are welcome to visit district schools from time to time; however, we ask that you comply with our policy requiring all visitors to go first to the principal’s office and sign in. We have this policy for the safety of your children and our staff. Parents and any other person on campus without the principal’s knowledge will be considered as trespassers.

We also expect parents to be polite and civil in their dealings with all school staff. We do not permit or tolerate abusive, disrespectful, threatening, lewd, profane, or offensive language from your children at school, and we will not tolerate it from parents. Parents who create a disruption at school or behave unacceptably may be prohibited from coming onto school property without specific authority and will be treated as criminal trespassers if they disregard the principal’s or superintendent’s directive.

While we encourage you to be involved in your children’s education and knowledgeable about their classes, teachers, and curriculum, it has been our experience that frequent and lengthy visits to the classroom are disruptive both to teaching and learning. The principal can limit or restrict the frequency and duration of classroom visits to be sure that disruption of the instructional process does not occur.

We encourage you to come to school occasionally and eat lunch with your child; however, children can be removed from the campus during lunch period only by following the established process of signing the child out from the principal’s office. Unless we have possession of a court document that limits a possessory conservator’s (that is the parent who does not ordinarily have custody of the student) access to their child while at school, we will permit either parent to eat lunch with their children at school (GKA LOCAL).

WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL

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

On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book and equipment clearance; to the librarian 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 will be 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.

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 and/or as a result of a student not meeting the passing standard on a state-mandated assessment.

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 sometimes 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 disciplinary alternative education program, a placement for students who have violated certain provisions of the Student Code of Conduct.

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 for directory information, unless a 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 to be provided, and program modifications or support by school personnel; a statement regarding how the student’s progress will be measured and how the parents will be kept informed; accommodations for state or districtwide 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 DAEP, ISS removes the student from the regular classroom.

LAT stands for Linguistically Accommodated Testing, which is an assessment process for recent immigrant English language learners who are required to be assessed in certain grades and subjects under the NCLB Act.

Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) is recommended for all students entering grade 9 and is required by state law for any student in middle school or higher who fails a section on a state-mandated test or is identified 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 one 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 to be eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), general education with appropriate instructional accommodations will be provided.

State-mandated assessments are required of students at certain grade levels and in specified subjects. Successful performance sometimes is a condition of promotion, and passing the grade 11 exit-level test is a condition of graduation. Students have multiple opportunities to take the tests if necessary for promotion or graduation.

Student Code of Conduct is 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 DAEP. It outlines conditions for out-of-school suspension and for expulsion. The Student Code of Conduct also addresses notice to the parent regarding a student’s violation of one of its provisions.

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

TAKS-Accommodated is a state mandated assessment based on the same grade-level academic achievement standards of TAKS available to certain students who receive special education services who need specific accommodations, as determined by the student and his or her ARD committee.

TAKS-Alternate is an alternate state mandated assessment designed for students with severe cognitive disabilities receiving special education services who meet the participation requirements, as determined by the student and his or her ARD committee.

TAKS-Modified is an alternate state mandated assessment based on modified achievement standards and is administered to eligible students receiving special education services, as determined by the student and his or her ARD committee.

TELPAS stands for the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System, which assesses the progress that English language learners make in learning the English language, and is administered for those who meet the participation requirements in kindergarten–grade 12.

UIL refers to the University Interscholastic League, the statewide voluntary nonprofit organization that oversees educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contests.

Everyone knows that your doing your part

Whether you’re winning or whether you lose

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

SECTION II: INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS

ADMISSION AND RELEASE

Release during the School Day

Class Schedules

Classroom Celebrations

You or a grandparent may provide any food product of your choice to your child and his or her classmates on the occasion of the child’s birthday or for any other school-designated function, such as class parties, bake sales, etc.

AND ORGANIZATIONS

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

Certificates of Coursework Completion

Graduation Exercises

Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Personal Items

Routine and In-depth Makeup Work Assignments Because of Absence

Parking/Driving at School

Library Facilities, Hours, and Access