Student Handbook, Parents Or Guardians Must Approve Their Student's Participation Via Email, Fax Or Written Permission to the School Principal

BRADWELL INSTITUTE

STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK

2020 - 2021

Mr. Roland Van Horn , Principal Mrs. Torri Jackson, Assistant Principal Dr. Deborah Mangum, Assistant Principal Dr. Sean Mulvanity, Assistant Principal Mrs. Mary Ryan, Assistant Principal

Accredited By

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Georgia Accrediting Commission

Bradwell Institute 100 Pafford Street Hinesville, GA 31313 912-876-6121 912-876-6914 (FAX)

The Bradwell Institute website and Liberty County School System policies and other pertinent information may be assessed at http://www.bradwellinstitute.org/.

August 4, 2020

To: Bradwell Institute Students, Parents, Guardians and Friends: From: Mr. Van Horn Re: 2020/21 school year

Welcome to the 2020-2021 school year,

I am very proud to inform you that our entire faculty and staff is energized and deeply committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our students. We will accomplish this by providing any necessary support and positive encouragement needed to ensure those high expectations are met. setting high academic expectations, maintaining a safe environment that is conducive to learning, and establishing relationships that foster positive interactions and productive conversations. This also includes focusing on school culture, academic performance, building positive relationships, engaging stakeholders and delivering high quality instruction. I am also proud to report that our students are well on the road to becoming responsible college and career ready adults.

On behalf of our faculty and staff, I would like to thank you for partnering with us to ensure that our students are present for school all day every day, focused on academics, ready for the daily challenges and exhibiting behaviors that are in compliance with all established expectations, rules, routines and procedures. This includes monitoring use of IPads and ensuring that they are being used to enhance the educational experience and wearing the recommended face coverings to ensure we protect ourselves and others. Please take some time to peruse the LCSS webpage which includes the update code of conduct under the newcomer’s tab at https://www.liberty.k12.ga.us/ You will also find official district communications in the breaking news section.

Please take the time to fill out and return all of our first day forms. These forms provide the school with vital information which allows us to update records and provide you with better feedback.

I invite you to visit our website (www.bradwellinstitute.org) and get a quick snapshot of life at our school. Please explore our web links to find out more about your student’s teachers, curriculum, programs, school initiatives, social media, parent involvement opportunities, sports schedules, school governance, school hours and upcoming events. Due to COVID19 restrictions our open house will be held virtually. Please check for a video presentation on our website one week prior to school opening. We update our school website daily so check back often.

If you would like to contact me, my email address is [email protected] you can also reach me by phone (912) 876-6121 or via my Twitter account @mrrvh. I look forward to working with you and your student as we strive to make the 2020-21 school year an exciting and academically successful school year.

I hope to see you here at school, out in the community, at one of our many parent involvement nights, curriculum themed nights or athletic events.

Here’s to a great year!

OUR MISSION AND MOTTO

MISSION The mission of Bradwell Institute is to provide a safe, supportive environment where students are given an opportunity to reach academic excellence and fulfill their civic and social responsibilities.

SCHOOL THEME FOR 2020-2021 One Team, One Dream...We Are ALL in This Together!

SCHOOL MOTTO It is great to be a Bradwell Institute TIGER…within every TIGER is a GRADUATE! School Spirit differs from place to place because of the people. It has to come from the heart, and if there is no heart, there is no school spirit. It is the positive attitude our students, faculty, and staff have about our school.

School spirit is the attitude students and teachers have about Bradwell Institute as well as their attitude toward each other in and out of the classroom. When positive school spirit is promoted, students are motivated to work harder, academically and athletically.

OPEN DOOR POLICY The administration is committed to being available and accessible to all stakeholders. If there is an issue that you are unable to resolve, please call and schedule a time that we may meet with you. We do ask that you schedule an appointment as the administration spends the majority of the instructional day supervising instruction. Scheduling an appointment will ensure that the administration is able to meet with you without interruption. Appointments are made for the same day or the very next school day. Emergency situations will garner immediate attention.

SCHOOL PURPOSE Your child’s education and safety are our primary concerns. Please understand that all policies and procedures are designed to help meet both academic and safety expectations. We understand that some may seem inconvenient, but with the large number of students on campus, they are necessary to maintain a safe, orderly, and educationally sound environment for all our students. We ask for your support of these policies and procedures as we strive to maintain a school in which all students learn to their maximum potential.

Alma Mater

Bradwell, we will always love thee, Always true we'll be. And there'll never be another Like B.I. to me.

Alma Mater, thee we honor: You are dear and old And your name we'll ever cherish, Hail the blue and gold!

STUDENT ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

Students at the high school should not arrive on campus more than 20 minutes before the first bell and should leave campus not later than 10 minutes after the last bell unless participating in a school-supervised activity approved by the principal or his designee.

BI students may be dropped off for school at the main entrance at the front of the school. Students can arrive at 7:50.

BI DAILY SCHEDULE

7:50 Students enter the building and go directly to 1st Block (Students pick-up breakfast, use the restroom and go to lockers. Morning LCCA/STC students will report to the cafeteria to await the buses.) 8:20-9:45 1st Block 9:45-9:55 Transitions 10:00-11:20 2nd Block 11:20-11:30 Transitions 11:20 LCCA/ STC to Lunch 11:35- 1:35 3rd Block *Lunches: 1st Lunch 11:30-11:55 l 2nd Lunch 12:05-12:30 3rd Lunch 12:40-1:05 4th Lunch 1:10-1:35

1st Lunch 11:25-11:45 2nd Lunch 11:50-12:10 3rd Lunch 12:15-12:35 4th Lunch 12:45-1:05 5th Lunch 1:15-1:35

1:35-1:45 Transitions 1:50-3:10 4th Block 3:10-3:45 Dismissal (Students should remain in 4th block until dismissed via intercom. Car riders/walkers/athletes first then buses will be called.)

*For the four-lunch schedule, afternoon LCCA/STC students eat lunch first followed by PE students.

*When lunch is eaten in the classroom and cafeteria, the even-numbered classrooms eat in the classroom on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays this nine weeks. The odd-numbered classrooms eat in the classroom on Tuesdays and Thursdays this nine weeks. This will switch each nine weeks.

PROCEDURES FOR EARLY DISMISSAL

Students who need to check out during the school day must bring a note signed by a parent or a fax or email may be sent to the attendance office prior to the beginning of the school day. Phone calls for early dismissals are not accepted. If a verifiable note is not provided, students will not be permitted to leave campus. Exceptions can be made in case of an emergency, subject to building administrator approval. If the student has his/her own transportation, it is still required that a note from the parent or guardian be presented or have a note sent by email or fax to the attendance office preferably prior to the start of the school day. The attendance office is required to contact a parent or guardian by phone to verify the early dismissal, regardless of the student’s age.

Checkouts will be marked excused or unexcused using the guidelines set forth in the attendance policy. Students are discouraged from checking out of school except for an emergency, a medical appointment, a court appearance, or a funeral. Personal errands such as hair appointments, banking, car repairs, senior pictures, driver’s permit, or job 5 interviews are unexcused absences and are not approved for check-out purposes. Unapproved absences are subject to truancy discipline procedures.

VISITORS

All campus visitors, including parents who have come to pick up students or parents who have an appointment for a conference, must check in at Student Services to receive a visitor’s pass. Visitors must show a valid ID to receive the pass. Persons who do not follow these guidelines will be asked to leave or asked to go to Student Services to obtain a pass.

ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES (P 11 LCCOC)

Attendance has a vital bearing on student educational achievement. Students may be excused from school if they meet the criteria established in the code of conduct. Upon returning to school, the student must bring a written excuse signed by his/her parent or guardian stating the reason for the absence. All excuses shall be dated and brought to the school within three (3) days of the student’s absence. A student who accumulates excessive parent/guardian notes may be required to submit a doctor’s note in order to receive excused status. Mailboxes are located in the cafeteria commons area and the main lobby area. All excuses should be placed in one of these borxes when brought to school. Hand written notes and doctor excuses can also be scanned or photographed and emailed to [email protected].

A student who has excessive absences and/or tardies may be referred to the School Social Worker.

EXCUSED ABSENCES

It is the policy of the Board to excuse students from school for the following reasons:

1. Personal illness or attendance in school that endangers a student’s health or the health of others.

2. A serious illness or death in a student’s immediate family necessitating absence from school.

3. A court order or an order by a governmental agency, including pre-induction physical examinations for service in the armed forces, mandating absence from school.

4. The observance of religious holidays, necessitating absence from school.

5. Conditions rendering attendance impossible or hazardous to student health or safety.

6. A period not to exceed one day for registering to vote or voting in a public election.

7. A student whose parent or legal guardian is in military service in the U.S. armed forces or National Guard, and such parent has been called to duty for, or is on leave from, overseas deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting, will be granted up to 5 days of excused absences per school year to visit with his or her parent prior to the parent’s deployment or during the parent’s leave.

8. Any emergency or set of circumstances which, in the judgment of a building administrator, constitutes just and sufficient cause for an excused absence from school.

Students in foster care shall be counted present when they attend court proceedings related to their foster care.

All approved School Sponsored Activities (SSA) are considered as part of the school day and do not count against the student’s classroom attendance.

School attendance is required on the day of any extracurricular school activity in which the student wishes to participate. Individual exceptions to this rule may be appealed to the principal.

Students shall be counted present when they are serving as pages of the Georgia General Assembly.

The principal may in certain circumstances require students to present appropriate medical or other documentation upon return to school for the purpose of validating that absences are excused.

ABSENCES RELATED TO COLLEGE VISITS

Juniors and Seniors qualify for excused absences for college visits. Any junior or senior who is planning a college visit must begin the process by picking up the College Visit form from the junior or senior Counselor in the Guidance Office. Seniors are limited to three visits (generally one day per visit. Additional days must be pre- approved.) Juniors are limited to two visits (generally one day per visit. Additional days must be pre-approved.)

● Have SIGNED approval of the school counselor and administrator ● Have SIGNED approval of the parents or guardian ● Have teachers’ signatures on the College Visit form prior to the visit ● Have a written note, email, or faxed college verification sent to guidance counselor.

Note: College visits within 75 miles will be scheduled during days when school is not in session. Exceptions must be approved in advance by an administrator.

The student should not be marked absent for a School Sponsored Activity (SSA) including college visits. Prior to the college visit the student is responsible for informing the teachers and collecting the teachers’ signatures. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule make-up work in compliance with the policy. The teacher will schedule make- up work either before or after the dates that the student will miss. The student will receive no credit if they fail to make up work.

MAKE-UP WORK

Final course grades of students shall not be penalized because of absences if absences are justified and validated for excusable reasons and make up work for excused absences was completed satisfactorily.Students who are absent from school or from an individual class should make up work within the general timeline of one day and one day for each day of missed school to complete all work. Teachers are given the latitude to be flexible with deadlines for class work and should list the options in the course syllabus. Exceptions to the general timeline are for major projects or tests that were pre-announced for all students well in advance. Students are strongly encouraged to make up work or tests before or after school to avoid missing additional class time.

ATTENDANCE AND SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

Georgia law and State Board of Education policy allows students to be excused from classroom activities for school- sponsored, off-campus activities. These events do not count against the student as absences provided they are part of an extracurricular program of a school organization or an extension of an instructional class. Schoolwork missed may be due on the first day the student returns to class following the activity if the work was assigned prior to the activity. The student is responsible for contacting the teachers regarding assignments due.

Teachers are notified of the students who are absent as a result of a field trip. Students do not need to justify these absences.

ATTENDANCE AND PREPLANNED FAMILY VACATION

Each year the school calendar is approved by the Board of Education. It is made available online several months prior to the start of the school year. This practice is designed to assist families in planning vacations and other events to avoid conflicts with the school schedule. Please know that vacations are considered unexcused absences. Excessive unexcused absences could impact the student receiving an attendance certificate which is necessary for the student to receive a driver’s permit or license

TARDY POLICY

Students have 5 minutes between each class to move from one class to another. All students are expected to be in their classrooms when the tardy bell rings. Failure to do so will result in the student being marked tardy by the teacher. If a student is late to school, he/she should report to the Attendance Office to check-in. Students who are more than 2 minutes tardy to class should report to the appropriate administrator in order to obtain a late pass to enter the class. There is a required 10-minute dead time after each bell in which NO student is permitted to be out of the assigned classroom.

ATTENDANCE AND SENIOR FINAL EXAM EXEMPTION In order for a senior to be exempt from exams, he/she must have no more than five total absences in addition to a class average of 90% or higher. Any senior who accumulates more than five absences may not be exempt from a final regardless of the semester average.

SCHOOL ENROLLMENT AND WITHDRAWAL

ATTENDANCE LAW “GA COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE LAW”

The Georgia Compulsory School Attendance Law, Code Section 20-2-690.1 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, sets out the responsibility that parents/guardians have to ensure that children ages six through sixteen are enrolled in and attending school regularly. This Code Section also sets out penalties to be imposed for failure to meet this responsibility. Code Section 20-2-690.1 mandates the following:

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that children ages six through sixteen are enrolled in and attend school regularly.

Students are also held responsible for enrolling in and attending school.

Parents/guardians who violate this Code section are guilty of a misdemeanor and (upon conviction) will be subject to a fine of not less than $25 and not greater than $100, imprisonment up to 30 days, community service or any combination of such penalties.

Each day’s absence from school, after parents/guardians notification by the school that the student has accrued five unexcused absences, will constitute a separate offense.

The school will make two reasonable attempts to notify parents/guardians that a student has accrued five unexcused absences. If these attempts are unsuccessful, the school will notify the parent/guardian by mail.

The school must provide parents/guardians of each child enrolled in public school a written summary of possible consequences and penalties for failing to comply with the compulsory attendance law. Parents/guardians of each child must sign a statement indicating receipt of the possible consequences and penalties.

The school principal or his designee has the authority and duty of file proceedings in court to enforce the Compulsory School Attendance Law.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES TO REDUCE UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: NOTIFICATION

1. The school system requires its schools to provide to the parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of each student enrolled in school a written summary of possible consequences and penalties for failing to comply with compulsory attendance. By September 1 of each school year or within 30 school days of a student’s enrollment in the school system, the parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of such student will be asked to sign a statement indicating receipt of such written statement of possible consequences and penalties. In addition, students age ten or older by September 1 must sign a statement indicating receipt of written statement of possible consequences for non-compliance to the local board policy. 2. The school system will notify the parent, guardian or other person who has control or charge of the student when such student has five unexcused absences. The notice will outline the penalty and consequences of such absences and that each subsequent absence will constitute a separate offense. After two reasonable attempts to notify the parent, guardian or other person who has charge of the student, the school system will send written notice via first-class mail. The school system will notify parents via certified mail, return receipt requested, prior to any action to begin judicial proceedings for violations of the compulsory attendance law. 3. The School System will use its best efforts including first class mail to notify a student age 14 and older when the student has only three absences remaining before violating the state’s attendance requirements pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 40-5-22 regarding the denial of driver’s permits and licenses. 4. Students shall be notified through the student codes of conduct of the definition of truancy and a summary of possible consequences and penalties for truancy, including possible dispositions for unruly children in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 15-11-67 and the possible denial of or suspension of a driver’s license.

Voluntary Withdrawal of Unemancipated Minors

A 16 or 17-year-old student desiring to withdraw from school must have the written permission of his or her parent or guardian prior to withdrawing. Prior to accepting such permission, a school administrator/designee will have a conference with the student and parent or legal guardian within two school days of receiving the student’s notice of intent to withdraw. The purpose of the conference is to share with the student and parent/guardian educational options available and the consequences of not earning a high school diploma.

ACADEMIC AND BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

The primary focus at Bradwell Institute is on student achievement. Our teachers strive to create learning environments that are stimulating and focused on the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards. Students will be academically challenged and consistently encouraged to excel. The curriculum is rigorous and requires continuous student effort. We will work to provide each student with the opportunity to learn and to be successful. Having high behavioral expectations of all students is a primary component of creating quality learning experiences for all students.

Listed on the pages of this packet are some of our behavioral expectations and standard operating procedures designed to facilitate rigor, engagement and good order. The Liberty County Code of Conduct is the primary resource for system wide policies and consequences. The items in this handbook cannot override any of these policies

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS The success of our students is often determined by the expectation set at the beginning of the school year. Since the Liberty County Code of Conduct has established policies, such as the uniformed dress code, we feel that it is imperative that students are in full compliance. In addition to providing a high quality education, we hope to establish a clear understanding in our student body that all established rules, policies, and procedures will be enforced. Listed below are some initial expectations for admittance to class and other areas of the building as well as expectations when moving throughout the building.

● Students are under the authority of all adults in the building. This includes both certified and non-certified employees. All students should respond to their instructions. ● Students are expected to be in class on time, not tardy. ● When assigned teacher/lunch detention, students are expected to meet this obligation on time. Students will have 24 hours to arrange transportation. ● When classes are in session, students must have written permission to be in the halls. ● Loafing in halls or restrooms, loud boisterous talking or laughing within the building will not be tolerated. ● Students are not to be in the parking lots during the school day without permission from the office. ● No student is allowed to leave the school grounds after arriving without permission from the office. Students may not leave campus for lunch or have lunch delivered to them, expect for seniors with parent/administration approval. Students should not bring food or drinks into the halls or classrooms. ● Students must be dress code compliant (page 16, LCCOC). ● Student ID cards must clearly be displayed between the chin and waist at all times.

AUTHORITY OF THE PRINCIPAL

The principal is the designated leader of the school and in concert with the staff, is responsible for the orderly operation of the school. In cases of disruptive, disorderly or dangerous conduct not covered in the Student Behavior Code, the principal may undertake corrective measures which he or she believes to be in the best interest of the student and the school, provided any such action does not violate school board policy.

STUDENT DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES When it is necessary to impose discipline, school administrators and teachers will follow a progressive discipline process. The degree of discipline to be imposed by each school official will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particular student and will take into account the student’s discipline history, the age of the student and other relevant factors.

The Student Behavior Code provides a systematic process of behavioral correction in which inappropriate behaviors are followed by consequences. Disciplinary actions are designed to teach students self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviors with those that are consistent with the character traits from Georgia’s Character Education Program.

The maximum punishments for an offense include alternative placement, long-term suspension or expulsion, including permanent expulsion, but those punishments will be determined only by a disciplinary tribunal as outlined in Board of Education policy JCEB. Parents of students who have been assigned to alternative placement or suspended from school for more than 10 days by a tribunal panel have the right to appeal such decision. They may do so by writing a letter to the superintendent of schools within 20 calendar days of the tribunal decision stating why the decision is being appealed.

Parents or students may elect not to contest whether a student has violated the Student Behavior Code or the appropriate discipline, and in such cases, an agreement may be negotiated that would include the parents or students waiving a right to a hearing before a disciplinary tribunal. Such an agreement and waiver must also be approved by the disciplinary tribunal or hearing officer in accordance with local board policy.

Before a student is suspended for 10 days or less, the principal or designee will inform the student of the offense for which the student is charged and allow the student to explain his or her behavior. If the student is suspended, the student’s parents will be notified if possible. School officials may involve law enforcement officials when evidence surrounding a situation necessitates their involvement or when there is a legal requirement that an incident be reported.

School officials may search a student if there is reasonable suspicion that the student is in possession of an item that is illegal or against school rules. Student vehicles brought on campus; student book bags, school lockers, desks and other school property are subject to inspection and search by school authorities at any time without further notice to students or parents. Students are required to cooperate if asked to open book bags, lockers or any vehicle brought on campus. At the discretion of administrators, metal detectors and drug- or weapon-sniffing dogs may be utilized at school or at any school function, including activities which occur outside normal school hours or off the school campus.

SERIOUS BEHAVIORAL INFRACTIONS (PAGES 24-34 LCCOC)

One of our primary goals is to offer our students a quality education that is safe and orderly. Certain infractions can negatively impact the learning environment and may be dealt with in a manner that follows the most severe set of consequences outlined in the Liberty County Code of Conduct. These include, but are not limited to, the possession or use of drugs on school property, being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on school property, having weapons on school property, fighting, bullying and interfering with the safe operation of the school bus. These incidents may be reported to the police, and the school may pursue criminal charges. They may also result in a disciplinary tribunal hearing and possible removal from school or placement in an alternative school setting.

BULLYING The Board of Education believes that all students can learn better in a safe school environment. Behavior that infringes on the safety of students will not be tolerated. Bullying, as the term is defined in Georgia law, of a student by another student is strictly prohibited. Such prohibition shall be included in the Student Code of Conduct for all schools within the school system. Bullying is defined as follows: An act which occurs on school property, on school vehicles, at designated school bus stops, or at school related functions or activities, or by use of data or software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, computer network, or other electronic technology of a local school system, that is:

1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so; 2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; or 3. Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass, or intimidate, that: o Causes another person substantial physical harm within the meaning of Code Section 16-5-23.1 or visible bodily harm as such term is defined in Code Section 16-5-23.1; o Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education; 11

o Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or o Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Procedures may be developed at each school encouraging a teacher or other school employee, student, parent, guardian, or other person who has control or charge of a student, either anonymously or in the person’s name, at the person’s option, to report or otherwise provide information on bullying activity. Any teacher or other school employee who, in the exercise of his or her personal judgment and discretion, believes he or she has reliable information that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that someone is a target of bullying is encouraged to immediately report it to the school principal. Any report will be appropriately investigated by the administration based on the nature of the complaint in a timely manner to determine whether bullying has occurred, whether there are other procedures related to illegal harassment or discrimination that should be implemented and what other steps should be taken. Any report of retaliation for reporting bullying will also be investigated and addressed as called for in this policy and in accordance with school procedures.

Acts of bullying shall be punished by a range of consequences through the progressive discipline process, as stated in the Code of Conduct. Such consequences shall include, at a minimum and without limitation, disciplinary action or counseling, as appropriate under the circumstances. However, upon a finding by the disciplinary hearing officer, panel or tribunal that a student in grades 6-12 has committed the offense of bullying for the third time in a school year, the student shall be assigned to an alternative school or expelled. Upon a finding by a school administrator that a student has committed an act of bullying or is a victim of bullying, the administrator or designee shall notify the parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of the student by telephone call, written letter and/or electronic means.

Students and parents will be notified of the prohibition against bullying and the penalties for violating the prohibition by posting information at each school and by including such information in the student/parent handbooks.

BUS MISBEHAVIOR The following specific provisions shall govern student conduct and safety on all school buses:

1) All provisions of the Student Behavior Code apply to behavior on the school bus, including but not limited to, acts of physical violence as defined by Code Section 20-2-751.6, bullying as defined by subsection (a) of the Code Section 20-2-751.4, physical assault or battery of other persons on the school bus verbal assault of other persons on the school bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other persons on the school bus, and other unruly behavior;

2) A meeting of the parent or guardian of the student and appropriate school district officials must be held to form a school bus behavior contract whenever: • A student is found to have engaged in bullying; or • A student is found to have engaged in physical assault or battery of another person on the school bus.

The school bus behavior contract shall provide for age-appropriate discipline, penalties and restrictions for student misconduct on the bus. Provisions may include, but are not limited to, assigned seating, ongoing parental involvement and suspension from riding the bus. These provisions regarding use of a bus behavior contract are not to be construed to limit the instances when other Student Behavior Code violations may require use of a student bus behavior contract.

3) Students shall be prohibited from using any electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, including but not limited to cell phones, pagers, audible radios, tape or compact disc players, or any other electronic device in a manner that might interfere with the school bus communication equipment or the school bus driver’s operation of the school bus; and

4) Students shall be prohibited from using mirrors, lasers, flash cameras or any other lights or reflective devices in a manner that might interfere with the school bus driver’s operation of the school bus.

HALL TRAFFIC You are requested to keep to the right of the corridors while changing classes. Form a line down the wall to the right of the water fountains when you stop to get water. Do not stand in the center of the corridor. Do not stop in the center to talk with your friends. Students are requested not to use the halls during lunch where classes are in sessions. You are requested to exercise consideration for others at all times.

CAFETERIA Food and drinks are permitted only in designated areas of the cafeteria. Clear bottled water is permitted in the classroom. RESTROOMS

Students are advised to use the restrooms between class changes and during lunch periods. Each teacher will limit the number of restroom requests. In some cases, students will be required to make up time missed from class due to questionable restroom requests. Students are not allowed to leave class without permission to use the restroom.

Students using the restroom are asked to cooperate with teachers and others checking or supervising the restrooms. Staff personnel have been directed to prevent student congestion, intimidation, smoking, eating, and loitering in restrooms. These directions are for the welfare of all. Vandalism of the restrooms will result in severe disciplinary action. Faculty restrooms may not be used by students.

BALLOONS/GIFTS AT SCHOOL

Students will not be allowed to accept flowers, balloons, or other gifts sent to the school during the school day.

CAMPUS MAINTENANCE

Students are earnestly requested to keep off the grass and to keep the grounds, buildings, and lobbies clean. Trash containers are provided in order that we may preserve the neatness of our school.

CELL PHONE POLICY Bradwell Institute enforces the Cell Phone policy adopted by the Liberty County Board of Education. It is outlined in the Liberty County Code of Conduct. Students who fail to follow these procedures will have their phones confiscated as outlined in the Code of Conduct. Failure to surrender a cell phone, or any electronic device, will result in a suspension from school.

STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS

The school looks with favor on student relationships and considers them natural and normal. Regardless of gender, discretion should be used by all couples to avoid undue familiarity and the violation of accepted standards of behavior. There should be no physical contact between students at any time. All bodily contact between students, including hand holding, is prohibited at school and at school activities.

ACADEMICS

PLAGIARISM/ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/CHEATING

To plagiarize is to steal and pass off the words of another as one’s own, or to use a created production without crediting the source. An easier way to state this is: to plagiarize is to copy from a text or internet source without citing the document as a source. Plagiarism is considered dishonest. Plagiarizing could result in failure of a course and loss of academic honors. A zero will be given to the student(s) for the assignment or test, the parent will be contacted by the teacher, and the student will be referred to the administration. All evidence of Plagiarism/Academic Dishonesty/Cheating obtained will be sent to the discipline administrator. Cheating on any type of assignment will not be tolerated.

NUMERICAL GRADING SCALE

● A = 90-100 ● B = 80-89 ● C = 70-79 ● F = Below 70

GPA SCALE

● A = 4 points ● B = 3 points ● C = 2 points ● F = 0 points

SPECIFIC COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

AREAS OF STUDY UNITS REQUIRED

English/Language Arts 4

Mathematics 4

Science 4

Social Studies 4

Modern Language/Latin and/or CTAE 4 and/or Fine Arts

Health/Physical Education 1

Elective Courses 3 Students planning to enter or transfer into a University System of Georgia institution must take two units of the same foreign language.

Total Units 24 14

Required Assessments Each student must take the EOC in four subject areas which will be 20% of the student's grade.

EOC classes include: American Lit., Algebra 1, Biology, and U.S. History

GRADE CLASSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS To be promoted to the next grade level, students must have a total of the following minimum units of credit:

Sophomore 6.0 units of credit Junior 12.0 units of credit Senior 18.0 units of credit

COURSE CREDIT

1. Unit credit shall be awarded only for courses that include concepts and skills based on the Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) for grades 9-12 or those approved by the SBOE. Unit credit may be awarded for courses offered in the middle grades that meet 9-12 GPS requirements. The Individualized Education Program (IEP) shall specify whether core courses taken as part of an IEP shall receive core unit credit. 2. No course credit may be awarded for courses in which instruction is based on the GPS curriculum for grades K-8. 3. Completion of diploma requirements does not necessarily qualify students for the HOPE Scholarship Program.

STUDENTS WITH SIGNIFICANT COGNITIVE DISABILITIES

Students with significant cognitive disabilities may graduate and receive a regular high school diploma when the student’s IEP team determines that the student has:

a. Completed an integrated curriculum based on the GPS that includes instruction in Mathematics, English/Language Arts, Science and Social Studies as well as career preparation, self determination, independent living and personal care to equal a minimum of 24 units of instruction, b. Participated in the GAA during middle school and high school and earned a proficient score on the high school GAA test, and c. Reached the 22nd birthday OR has transitioned to an employment/education/training setting in which the supports needed are provided by an entity other than the local school system

CLASS SCHEDULES

Student schedules are built from the course requests and alternates that are selected and marked in the online registration portal during the registration process in the spring semester. Schedule changes are made for the following reasons:

● a course already passed by the student appears on the schedule; ● a course not scheduled is needed to meet graduation requirements; ● a student is assigned the wrong grade level of a class; ● the schedule is incomplete and has fewer than four instructional blocks.

Legitimate schedule changes are made as quickly as possible. Lunch period and teacher requests will not be made. Students must follow their original schedules while waiting for their schedule changes. No changes will be made after the first five days of class.

HONORS/AP Students will be permitted to transfer out of Honors and AP classes within the first 5 school days of the course at the discretion of the Honors/Committee. Grades earned in the course will transfer into the new course only at Honors/Gifted Committee discretion, and on a space available basis to the class that they are transferring into which in all possible cases should be a corresponding course.

FITNESSGRAM ASSESSMENT

As part of your child’s P.E. program, all schools throughout the state are required to participate in the FITNESSGRAM fitness assessment which measures health-related fitness for youth. The FITNESSGRAM physical fitness assessment measures aerobic capacity, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition. Your students FITNESSGRAM assessment will be administered at different times throughout the school year.

Please encourage your child to participate with his/her best effort and to the best of their ability. The FITNESSGRAM assessment is a measure of good health as opposed to athletic ability. Each student will be assessed using the following assessment components:

● PACER or One-Mile Run ● Curl-Up ● Push-Up ● Back-Saver Sit and Reach ● Height/Weight

A confidential FITNESSGRAM report will be provided for each student with the final report card of the school year. This report will include your child’s scores and information on the FITNESSGRAM Healthy Fitness Zones. The Healthy Fitness Zone represents the level of fitness needed for good health. The information on this private report will not be displayed or made public.

For more information regarding the FITNESS assessment, please refer to www.FITNESSGRAM.net/faqparents. If you have any other questions, please contact your school’s physical education teacher.

HONOR ROLL CRITERIA FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 9-12 In order for a student to attain honor roll, he/she must meet all of the following criteria: 1. Have an overall average of a 90% or higher

2. Have no remedial classes

3. Have no single class grade below a 75%

4. Students meeting these criteria will be awarded ROAR Tokens.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

A parent wishing a conference with his child's teacher should contact the Guidance Secretary by phone at (912) 368- 4022. Conferences should be scheduled in advance.

BRIDGE BILL: BUILDING RESOURCEFUL INDIVIDUALS TO DEVELOP GEORGIA’S ECONOMY

Georgia General Assembly HB 400: May 20, 2010

The purpose of the BRIDGE Bill is to provide a process for the development of an individual graduation plan for each student in Georgia. It allows students and parents to work together to plan for the future…

“Beginning with the 2010-2011 school year, students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades shall be provided counseling, advisement, career awareness, career interest inventories, and information to assist them in evaluating their academic skills and career interests. Before the end of the second semester of the eighth grade, students shall develop an individual graduation plan in consultation with their parents, guardians, or individuals appointed by the parents or guardians to serve as their designee. High school students shall be provided guidance, advisement, and counseling annually that will enable them to successfully complete their individual graduation plans, preparing them for a seamless transition to postsecondary study, further training, or employment.”

Advisement is a major part of education and career planning for ALL students. The BRIDGE Bill mandates advisement in grades 6 through 12. Effective advisement is measured by the utilization of the selected Career Information System (CIS) in all middle and high schools. At Bradwell Institute, Georgia Career Information System (GCIS) and YouScience are being utilized.

GA Career Information System http://www.gcic.edu/Content/HelpYourself/BridgeAct.aspx

The above site links you to the tool that will assist students with educational and career planning. Students and parents can gather educational and career-related information upon which they can make better and more informed decisions about their futures.

CLUBS & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Bradwell Institute offers a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities and encourages all students to become involved. Each parent or guardian has the right to prohibit their child’s participation in clubs and extracurricular activities.If you choose for your child not to participate in any of these activities, please provide a written notice to the address listed below. For school clubs formed after publication of the student handbook, parents or guardians must approve their student's participation via email, fax or written permission to the school principal.

School extracurricular activities, organizations, or clubs for purposes of this policy are those that are supervised or sponsored by a school system employee designated by the principal, and that meet in school facilities.

Band Sponsor: Aubrey Simmons Purpose: The marching band offers opportunities for students to perform at football games and parades. Leveled bands, percussion, and color guard are also offered by placement and qualifications.

Beta Club Sponsor: Kimberly Lewis Purpose: Beta Club is a nationally recognized service organization which recognizes its students for their involvement in the community and their academic achievement. Students are inducted into Beta Club by invitation only

BI Gents Sponsor: Deandre Davis & Brian Williams Purpose: Selected males are provided leadership opportunities and goal setting to increase their chances for success.

BI Pearls Sponsor: Sabrina Davis & Kadeshia Brown Purpose: The PEARLS is a mentoring group. Our purpose is to help young girls to grow into positive productive citizens. We encourage proper self-esteem and personal empowerment. By working together and planning activities (fun activities and service activities) our girls learn the value of group commitment. We offer our girls opportunities to grow through community service and to earn the necessary community service hours for graduation by assisting at after school functions.

Chorus Sponsor: John Willis Purpose: To enrich the lives of students and members of the community through preparation and performance of choral music.

Debate Club

Sponsor: Joan Culver Purpose: To provide students an opportunity to learn the skills of researching topics and presenting arguments in a debate format.

Family, Career, Community Leaders of America – FCCLA Sponsor: Kathryn Snelson Purpose: FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) is an organization that promotes personal and leadership development through family and consumer sciences education.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes – FCA Sponsor: Ken Scharnagl Purpose: “To present athletes and coaches and all whom they influence the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationship and in the fellowship of the Church.”

Future Business Leaders of America – FBLA Sponsor: Tonya Beverly Purpose: FBLA’s mission is to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs.

Future Farmers of America – FFA Sponsor: Lindsey Guyett Purpose: The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

Literary Sponsor: John Willis & James Boyce Purpose: Literary is an academic and musical competition sponsored by the Georgia High School Association. Meets are held at both the region and state levels, and events include boy’s and girl’s solo, boy’s quartet, girl’s trio, boy’s and girl’s essay, boy’s and girl’s dramatic interpretation, and boy’s and girl’s extemporaneous speaking. The region meet takes place the second week of March, and the state meet takes place in late March. More information can be found at www.ghsa.net.

Math Club Sponsor: Ken Scharnagl Purpose: Bradwell's Math Club is an opportunity for students to solve more challenging and unique math problems with others who also enjoy it. At times, there may be competitive contests available for us as well. Within the Math Club, there is Mu Alpha Theta. This is a national high school and two-year college mathematics honor society. Upon qualifying for this group, additional math competitions become available.

Math Club meets weekly on Tuesdays from 3:30 - 4:30, when students work to solve math problems at and beyond their level. They also participate in peer tutoring opportunities as a way to give back to the community.

National Honor Society Sponsor: Lindsey Guyett Purpose: To create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in the students.

Rotary Interact Club Sponsor: Rebecca Standard Purpose: To provide an opportunity for young people to work together in a world of fellowship dedicated to service and international understanding.

ROTC Sponsor: Col. Brian Young Purpose: To motivate young people to be better citizens through a broad curriculum which includes co-curricular activities.

STEM Club Sponsor: Thomas Thornton Purpose: Gives students opportunities to work hands-on with Science, Technology Engineering, and Mathematics projects.

Student Council Sponsors: Hannah Akin Purpose: To foster high academic, social, and cultural ideas in each school’s student body; to develop good leadership and decision-making skills; to serve as the voice of the students to communicate student suggestions to the administration in a serious and organized manner. All officers and representatives will diligently work towards the achievement of these purposes.

Student to Student Sponsor: Krista Stewart Purpose: The Student to Student (S2S) program trains civilian and military-connected high school students to establish and sustain peer-based programs in their schools to support mobile children as they transition to and from the school. The Student 2 Student Initiative meets very real transitioning student needs with: immediate peer credibility; positive peer relationships; and valued information. A team from a school campus, consisting of an advisor, students, and School Liaison Officer, is trained in transition issues. The focus is student centered, and is student led with close supervision.

Thespian Society/Georgia Thespians/Drama Sponsor: TBD Purpose: An honorary society of performers and production technicians designed to promote the appreciation of performing arts in our school and community and provide opportunities for the individual artist’s growth and development.

Tiger TV

Sponsor: TBD Purpose: Tiger TV is a group of students who work along with their advisors to create information based news broadcasts for the school. These broadcasts will be done monthly and tie into important events occurring throughout the school. Students will gain knowledge in filming and editing as they prepare their monthly broadcasts.

Yearbook Sponsor: Matthew Norsworthy Purpose: To provide opportunities for students to learn about photography, print layout and graphics, editorial content, and publishing while producing a school yearbook.

Baseball Head Coach: Rhett Hellgren Baseball is played as a team sport. The team will be divided into a 9th grade, Junior Varsity, and a Varsity team as participation numbers allow. The season begins in January and concludes in May at the state championship tournament. Baseball is a region and state championship sport.

Basketball – Girls Head Coach: Faye Baker Basketball is played as a team sport. The team will be divided into a 9th grade, Junior Varsity, and a Varsity team as participation numbers allow. The season begins in October and concludes in March at the state championship tournament. Basketball is a region and state championship sport.

Basketball – Boys Head Coach: Ty Randolph Basketball is played as a team sport. The team will be divided into a 9th grade, Junior Varsity, and a Varsity team as participation numbers allow. The season begins in October and concludes in March at the state championship tournament. Basketball is a region and state championship sport.

Cheerleading Coaches: April Adkins (Football) & Denise Dudley (Basketball) All athletes must try-out for the different squads in which they would like to participate. The spirit cheer season is aligned with the sport in season (football and basketball).

Cross Country Head Coach: Brian Williams Cross Country is a competitive running sport in which athletes cover a 3.1 mile course of varying terrain. The season begins in August and concludes in November at the state meet. There are individual winners and a team winner at meets. Cross Country is a region and state championship sport.

Football Head Coach: Kyle Adkins

Football is played as a team sport. The team will be divided into a 9th grade, Junior Varsity, and a Varsity team as participation allows. The season begins in August and concludes in December at the state championship game. Football is a region and state championship sport.

Golf – Girls & Boys Head Coach: Ty Randolph Golf is conducted as both a team and individual sport. There are individual medalists and team winners at each meet. The season begins in January and concludes in May at the state championship tournament. You are required to try-out for the team and must be selected in order to participate on the team. Golf is a region and state championship sport.

Rifle Head Coach: Kirk Scott Rifle is an area and state championship sport.

Soccer – Girls Head Coach: Hannah Akin Soccer is conducted as a team sport. The season begins in January and concludes in May at the state championship tournament. You are required to try-out for the team and must be selected in order to participate on the team. Soccer is a region and state championship sport.

Soccer – Boys Head Coach: Tommy Oglesby Soccer is conducted as a team sport. The season begins in January and concludes in May at the state championship tournament. You are required to try-out for the team and must be selected in order to participate on the team. Soccer is a region and state championship sport.

Softball – Fast-Pitch Head Coach: Misty Eastlake Softball is played as a team sport. It is fast pitch only. The team will be divided into a Junior Varsity and a Varsity team. The season begins in August and concludes in October at the state championship tournament. Softball is a region and state championship sport.

Tennis – Boys & Girls Head Coach: Ken Scharnagl Tennis is conducted as a team sport. The season begins in January and concludes in May at the state championship tournament. Tennis is a region and state championship sport.

Track Head Coach: Deandre Davis Track is conducted as both a team and individual sport. There are individual medalists and team winners at each meet. The season begins in January and concludes in May at the state championship meet. Athletes compete in various events including sprints, intermediate distance, and long distance running. Athletes may also compete in jumping, long and high, and throwing events. Track is a region and state championship sport.

Volleyball

Head Coach: Deandre Davis Volleyball is played as a team sport. The team will be divided into a Junior Varsity and a Varsity team. The season begins in August and concludes in October at the state championship tournament. Volleyball is an area and state championship sport.

STUDENT INFORMATION

DIRECTORY INFORMATION

Liberty County Board of Education designates the following information as "directory information." Unless a parent or eligible student makes a request to the principal of the school where the student is enrolled within 10 school days after the first day of attendance of each school year that such information not be designated directory information on the individual student, such information will not be considered confidential and may be disclosed to individuals, agencies and organizations that request the information.

(a) student's name, address and telephone number;

(b) student's participation in clubs and sports;

(d) dates of attendance at Liberty County Schools; and

(e) awards received during the time enrolled in Liberty County School System.

Unless a parent requests otherwise (as stated above) a high school student's name, address, and telephone number will be made available upon request to military recruiters and institutions of higher learning.

Student records will be forwarded to schools within or outside the Liberty County School System upon request of the school where a student is enrolling.

A parent or guardian who desires that the school district NOT RELEASE ANY OR ALL OF THE DIRECTORY INFORMATION about a student without prior written consent must notify the school district to that effect in writing. The request should be addressed to:

Bradwell Institute Attention: Roland Vanhorn, Principal 100 Pafford Street Hinesville, GA 31313

This information must be received no later than August 16, 2020.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Students and parents are to inform the registrar or office staff if they have a change of address or phone number in order to help in addressing mailings and in case of emergencies.

REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS

Students receive progress reports and one final report card each semester on dates indicated in the Liberty County Schools Activity Calendar. Final semester grades become a part of the student’s official high school transcript.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

Notice to Parents/Guardians and Eligible Students

Under the Family Education Rights & Privacy Act, you have a right to:

● Inspect and review, within 45 days of a request, the education records of a student who is your child, or in the case of a student who is eighteen (18) years of age or older or those who are emancipated, your own educational records. Parents or eligible students should submit to the child's school principal a written request and identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The child's school principal will make arrangements for access and provide notice of such arrangements. ● Request an amendment of the student's education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights. To request the school district to amend a record, parents or eligible students should write the school principal, specify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights. If the district decides not to amend the record, it will notify the parents or eligible students of the decision and inform them of their right to a hearing. Additional information regarding the hearing procedure will be provided with the notification of the right to a hearing. ● Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that the Act and the regulations promulgated pursuant to the Act authorize disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is to school officials with legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member; a member of the school board; a person with whom the district has contracted to perform a specific task (such as attorney, auditor, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee (such as a disciplinary or grievance committee). A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school district shall forward educational records without prior consent to another school in which the student seeks or intents to enroll. ● File with the United States Department of Education a complaint under 20 C.F.R. 99.64 concerning the alleged failures by the GCSS to comply with the requirements of the Act or the regulations promulgated thereunder. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM SCHOOL

School transportation is available for all in-zone students and other students who qualify for school transportation subject to Board of Education policies and procedures. If a student chooses to provide their own means of transportation to and from school, they accept responsibility for arriving at school on time. If a student is issued a parking pass and fails to arrive at school on time, or if the student abuses the driving privilege, the student will lose the parking pass.

BUS ROUTE CHANGES Students may only ride the bus in which they are assigned. If a parent would like to request a bus route change for less than one week, he/she may put the request in writing and have the child get the signature of a school administrator. This should be completed in the morning to give the school time to verify the note. All transportation change notes must be verified, so please include a phone number in which you can be reached. The transportation department must approve long term and permanent route changes.

DRIVING AND PARKING PRIVILEGES

Student Driving Students are expected to drive in a safe manner while on the campus. This means driving at a reduced speed, not allowing people to ride outside the vehicle, driving in the appropriate lanes, giving pedestrians the right of way and using the vehicle only for approved activities. The speed limit on campus is 5 MPH. A student must be 16 years old and possess a valid Georgia driver’s license or be accompanied by an adult over the age of 21 when driving on campus.

Motorcycles Motorcycles have advantages over automobiles such as better fuel economy and maneuverability, occupation of much less space and the like. However, potential dangers of motorcycles are the biggest disadvantage. If motorcycles were the only vehicles on roads, they would not be too dangerous, but since roads have other larger vehicles ranging from automobiles of 1, 000 kg to combination vehicles of 50, 000 kg, motorcycles with the masses around 100 kg are much weaker. In crashes involving motorcycles, both motorcyclists themselves and other road users may be somewhat liable, depending on exact circumstances. Serious accidents can easily cause bodily harm to motorcyclists.

To be eligible to park on the BI campus, the student must be at least 16 years old, have a valid Georgia driver’s license, and proof of insurance. In order for a student to park on campus, the following procedures must be followed: Report to the Attendance Office with a valid Georgia driver’s license, proof of insurance, tag registration and $20.00 fee (cash only). Register the vehicle(s) the student expects to drive to school (tag numbers). Receive a parking permit for one assigned space. Permits are not transferable. Park only in the assigned space. While on campus or leaving campus, the student must operate the vehicle in a safe manner. Private vehicles are never allowed to use the bus access road. Any student doing so will forfeit driving and parking privileges. Parking spaces will be made available at the beginning of the school year first to seniors, then juniors, and then sophomores. When all available spaces have been assigned, no more vehicles will be allowed to register. A waiting list will be created. As spaces become available, they will be assigned to the next person on the list with no class preference. Students who use their vehicles to break school regulations could lose their parking privilege for the remainder of the semester. This includes skipping school. The school is not responsible for theft or vandalism of vehicles parked on campus. The administration will use all reasonable means to prevent theft or vandalism and to apprehend anyone responsible for such, but cannot guarantee that vandalism will not occasionally occur. Students are to lock their vehicles when they arrive on campus and promptly exit the vehicle and proceed to the courtyard area. Students should carefully check their vehicles for needed school items each morning before leaving the parking lot. Students will not be allowed to return to vehicles or the parking lot area during the day to get “forgotten” items without administrative approval. Students may be denied the privilege of parking on school property if they (1) fail to abide by parking regulations, (2) fail to observe all state and city laws or (3) in any way exhibit reckless or inconsiderate driving practices in the school area.

Students who park illegally will face disciplinary action. Repeat offenses will result in the loss of parking privileges. Automobiles parked on school property are subject to search by school officials. Additional parking procedures are given to students when they register their vehicle and purchase a parking permit. To ensure safe and orderly entry and exit onto campus, drivers should follow established traffic flow patterns. The speed limit on campus is 5 MPH. If you misplace your parking decal/permit, you must purchase another one for $20.00. Symbolic speech perceived as offensive to persons of particular race, ethnicity or gender is prohibited on vehicles parked on school grounds. No refunds will be given for parking permits once they are issued.

DRESS CODE

In the interest of improved student performance, school safety, a reduction in student disruptions, and improved student self-esteem, the Liberty County Board of Education has enacted a mandatory uniform dress code policy for all students in kindergarten through grade twelve. School administrators will be responsible for making final determinations as to whether a student’s attire or appearance is in conflict with the written procedures.

The following clothing styles and colors will be considered appropriate:

1. Solid khaki pants, skirts, and uniform dresses (with sleeves) no shorter than 3 inches above the knee. Shorts and pants cannot have pockets or zippers on the legs. 2. Jumpers (sleeveless and of khaki color) worn with a shirt or blouse already specified in the dress code and uniform dresses with sleeves will be acceptable. 3. Solid white polo or collared shirts and blouses will be allowed. Additional colors have been chosen by each middle or high school.

REQUIRED COLORS Bradwell Institute’s required shirt colors are white and royal blue. Required colors for pants, shorts, or skirts are khaki, navy and black.

ADDITIONAL UNIFORM GUIDELINES

Uniforms must also abide by the following guidelines:

1. Shirts may have a school insignia, but no other ornamentation is allowed on any clothing; 2. Shirts must be tucked in and with no cleavage visible. 3. No denim, jogging, cargo pants, or leggings allowed. 4. No zippers or pockets on pant legs; and, 5. Uniforms must be worn at the natural waist. They cannot be inappropriately revealing or oversized and baggy, so as to allow sagging of the pants. Belts must be worn if pants or skirts have belt loops. Belts must be solid and unadorned navy, black, brown, white, or khaki. Belts and belt buckles must not be oversized nor have any writing or symbols.

ACCESSORIES 1. Shoes must be a matched pair and must be enclosed at the front and fastened/tied properly. Shoes with wheels and Crocs are not allowed. Bedroom shoes and slippers are not allowed. 2. Solid color sweaters, sweatshirts, or hoodies without an insignia (color appropriate to the school or the color white) may be worn over uniform shirts. Upon entering the school, students must remove the hood to his/her hoodie. 3. Letterman jackets and official school jackets (in school colors with the school name or logo on it) without hoods are allowed on days designated by the school principal. 4. Coats, jackets, and hoodies (school color or the color white) are permitted at middle and high school level for students to wear in class. Jackets should be unzipped, light weight, and school color (or white). Upon entering the school, students must remove the hood to the coat, jacket, or hoodie. 5. Solid white, gray, or black T-shirts, or a color appropriate to the school, may be worn under uniform shirts. Solid color turtlenecks (white or a color appropriate to the school) may be worn under a uniform shirt. 6. No manner of clothing, jewelry, button, or pin may display drugs, cigarettes, sexually suggestive items, alcohol, profanity, gang related logos or messages, or pictures or words that are determined to be distracting or demeaning to others by the school’s administrators;

7. Hats, caps, sweatbands, sunglasses, and other head coverings inside the building are not permitted. These items are only allowed outside the building and must not obscure the person’s identity. Bandannas are not allowed on school property. 8. Pierced earrings are permissible when worn in the ear as designed. Other body piercings are not permitted to be visible at school. Students may not wear at school items such as nose rings, nose pins, tongue rings, tongue pins, or any jewelry to accessorize facial or body piercings. 9. Facial hair must be neatly trimmed. 10. Chains, wallet chains, and spiked jewelry are not allowed on campus or at school related activities. 11. Only tights, hose, leggings, or socks may be worn. Tights, leggings, and socks must be a matched pair. No hose with designs may be worn. 12. Students enrolled in JROTC will be permitted to wear approved program uniforms. IDENTIFICATION CARDS

During the first week of school, every student will receive a school-issued identification card. Wearing IDs helps staff members to identify quickly people who should not be on campus and makes the campus a more secure and safe center of learning. IDs must be worn daily. Any student without an ID must see an administrator, or the student must go to the ISS room to have a replacement ID made. The cost of each replacement ID is $5.00. The cost for the lanyard is $1.00.

Student IDs MUST be visibly worn on the school-issued lanyard at all times during the school day while attending classes on campus. The ID must be worn around the neck. A student may not wear the ID on a belt, belt loop, pant pocket, or book bag; it may not be placed in a pocket. It may not be defaced.

Student IDs must be visibly worn in order: 1) to be on campus during school hours; (2) to attend classes; (3) to enter the lunchroom and make any lunchroom purchases; (4) to enter the media center and check out books and other materials; (5) to attend dances, sporting events (at student prices), and during after-school events and activities.

Any student who blatantly disregards the rule of wearing the required school identification card is insubordinate. Insubordination is subject to procedures and consequences of the Liberty County Schools Code of Conduct. Failure to wear the appropriate school ID will result in an official referral on each occasion for violation of the school dress code.

Seniors who have met all testing requirements for graduation and have demonstrated good citizenship may be given a platinum card (Senior ID).

DRESS DOWN DAYS School administrators will be able to allow “Dress Down Days” occasionally as a motivator or reward. Dress on these days should follow the Liberty County Dress Policy for dress down days as listed in the Code of Conduct. School administrators will have the authority to allow groups to modify their dress on given days to allow for special programs and/or situations. This could include cheerleaders, sports teams, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc. All teachers will enforce the above items on a daily basis each period. Should a student not be in compliance with the dress code, he/she will be required to comply before returning to class. All students must comply with the above dress code for the entire school day including during physical activity time, during PE, JROTC, etc. This includes cheerleaders/dance team, flag corps, and other groups except during performances. Violation of the dress code will result in a Level I or Level II Discipline depending upon the severity and frequency of the offense.

DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRESS DOWN DAYS

1. Shoes must be worn at all times, tied securely, and firmly anchored to the feet. No shower shoes, bedroom shoes, shoes with wheels, slippers, roller blades, or crocs are allowed; 2. Shirts must be long enough to be tucked in even if they are not tucked in (no bare midriffs);

3. No manner of clothing, jewelry, button, or pin may display drugs, cigarettes, sexually suggestive items, alcohol, profanity, gang related logos or messages, or pictures or words that are determined to be distracting or demeaning to others by the school’s administrators; 4. All shirts/dresses/tops must be fitted around the arm so that undergarments are not exposed. The width of the strap over the shoulder must be at least two (2) inches. No low-cut, revealing shirts are allowed; 5. Hats, caps, sweatbands, bandannas, sunglasses, and other head coverings inside the building are not permitted; 6. Leggings are not permitted; 7. Shirts and pants must be free of deliberate holes and tears; 8. Shorts, skirts, and jumpers must have a sewn hem and must not be more than three inches above the top of the kneecap. Splits in skirts must follow the same rule; 9. Facial hair must be neatly trimmed; 10. Pants must be worn at the natural waist. They cannot be inappropriately revealing or oversized and baggy, so as to allow sagging of the pants. Belts must be worn if pants, skirts, or shorts have belt loops. Belt buckles must not be oversized nor have any writing that is considered offensive; 11. Sheer garments are not permitted; 12. If pants, shorts, or skirts have straps which fit over the shoulders, the straps must be fastened in front and back of clothing and must be worn on the shoulders; 13. Pierced earrings are permissible when worn in the earlobes as designed. Other body piercings are not permitted to be visible at school. Students may not wear at school items such as nose rings, nose pins, tongue rings, tongue pins, or any jewelry to accessorize facial or body piercings; 14. Chains, wallet chains, and spiked jewelry are not allowed on campus or at school related activities.

SCHOOL DRESS CODE CLOSETS

Each school will maintain a uniform dress closet. This closet will contain a variety of sizes of uniforms for students who are newly enrolled or are noncompliant.

NEWLY ENROLLED STUDENTS

Students enrolled after the first day of school will be given ten (10) school days to prepare adequately for the dress code policy. Until that time they may borrow uniforms from the Uniform Dress Closet without penalty. However, students must wear a school uniform each day.

NON-COMPLIANCE PROCEDURES

Each school will strive to achieve full compliance within the guidelines of the Uniform Dress Code Policy. Since non-compliance interferes with the smooth operation of the school, the plan listed below has been developed to address students who do not comply with the required dress code procedures.

1st Occurrence ~ The teacher will send home a letter from the administration. 2nd Occurrence ~ The teacher will send home a letter from the administration and call the parent or guardian. 3rd Occurrence ~ A conference will be set up between an administrator and the parent to address the problem and develop a solution. 4th Occurrence ~ School officials will administer punishments as set up under Level I in the Code of Conduct. 5th & Additional Occurrences ~ School officials will administer punishments as set up under Levels I or II in the Code of Conduct.

Current school-issued identification badges are required for all students in grades six through 12. IDs should be visibly worn on a lanyard around the neck. IDs should not be defaced in any manner. Exceptions to this rule may be made for safety reasons when deemed appropriate by an administrator.

Certain school environments or classes may require more restrictive dress due to safety issues, i.e. Career/ Technical classes, science labs, physical education. Students are expected to comply with safety guidelines. Student dress and appearance are the responsibility of the student and the parent. The dress code will be enforced on a daily basis by all teachers. An administrator or other school district employee will conference with students who report to school inappropriately dressed. In some cases, parents may be called to bring appropriate clothing to the school and/or the student may not be permitted in class until appropriately attired.

School-wide exceptions may be made to this policy for such special events as "hat days" or "spirit days." The school principal and/or designee will make the final determination on whether a student's dress conflicts with these guidelines. Other exceptions to this rule could be made by the administration based on student's medical condition.

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE

It is the belief of the School System that the use of telecommunications, including the Internet, in instructional programs is an educational strategy that facilitates communication, innovation, resource sharing, and access to information. Use of the Internet must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational mission, goals, and objectives of the school system.

It shall be the policy of the Board of Education that the school system shall have in continuous operation, with respect to any computers belonging to the school having access to the Internet:

1. A qualifying “technology protection measure,” as that term is defined in Section 1703(b)(1) of the Children’s Internet Protection Act of 2000; and 2. Procedures or guidelines developed by the superintendent, administrators and/or other appropriate personnel which provide for monitoring the online activities of users and the use of the chosen technology protection measure to protect against access through such computers to visual depictions that are (i) obscene, (ii) child pornography, or (iii) harmful to minors, as those terms are defined in Section 1703(b)(1) and (2) of the Children’s Internet Protection Act of 2000. Such procedures or guidelines shall be designed to:

i. Provide for monitoring the online activities of users to prevent, to the extent practicable, access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and the World Wide Web; ii. Promote the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, social networking sites, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications; iii. Prevent unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking,” and other unauthorized activities by minors online; iv. Ensure that teachers or other appropriate individuals provide for students age-appropriate instruction regarding safe and appropriate behavior on social networking sites, in chat rooms, and other Internet services, as well as behaviors that may constitute cyberbullying and how to respond when subjected to cyberbullying; v. Prevent the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors; and

Restrict minors’ access to materials “harmful to minors,” as that term is defined in Section 1703(b)(2) of the Children’s Internet Protection Act of 2000.

STUDENT HEALTH

ILLNESS WHILE AT SCHOOL

If a student becomes ill during the school day, he/she should immediately report to a teacher, secure a pass, and go to the nurse’s office. Sick students are not permitted to stay in the restroom unsupervised under any circumstances and are required to report to their teacher first and then to the nurse’s office to seek immediate medical assistance and supervision.

MEDICINES AND MEDICATION

All medications other than the exceptions listed in this policy, whether prescription or over-the-counter, may be administered only in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the principal of each school. All medications must be taken by the student, parent or guardian to the school office immediately upon arrival at school and must be in original pharmaceutical containers, clearly labeled as to the name of the student, the name of the medication, the appropriate dosage, and the times for dosage. Any student possessing prescription or over-the-counter medication not in accordance with these guidelines will be considered in violation of the School District's drug policy and shall be subject to the discipline set forth in the student code of conduct and/or the student/parent handbook.

A student for whom the school has on file supporting medical documentation may carry at all times with parental/guardian permission inhalers for asthma, auto-injectable epinephrine for allergic reactions and medical needs for diabetes. Students authorized to self-administer such medications shall be instructed not to permit any other student to handle, possess, or otherwise attempt to use his/her medication and shall be informed that violations of such instructions will be dealt with in accordance with the student code of conduct.

In order for the student to carry and self-administer such medications, or in order for the school to store and administer the medication for students who are unable to self-administer because of age or any other reason, parents must provide a written statement from a licensed physician confirming that the student is able to self-administer the medication, if applicable, and written permission from the parent for the nurse or designated employee to consult with the doctor regarding any questions that may arise concerning the medication. Such permission shall release the school district and its employees and agents from civil liability for administering such medication to students, or if the self-administering student suffers an adverse reaction as a result of self-administration of such medication. Parents are encouraged to provide to the schools duplicate medication and supplies in the event a student is unable to self-administer or fails to bring the medication or equipment to school.

Nurses or other school employees are authorized to administer auto-injectable epinephrine, if available, to a student who is having an actual or perceived anaphylactic adverse (allergic) reaction, regardless of whether the student has a prescription for epinephrine. Any school employee who in good faith administers or chooses not to administer auto- injectable epinephrine to a student in such circumstances shall be immune from civil liability.

STUDENT BELONGINGS, DELIVERIES AND COMMUNICATIONS

LOCKER USAGE 1. Students will be assigned lockers according to the location of their third period class. 2. A lock must be purchased from the school before the locker may be used. 3. Students may only use the locker they are assigned. 4. Students may use their lockers before school, between second and third periods, and after school. 5. Students may not use lockers during the instructional period. Lockers may not be used at any other times. This includes no use between any periods except second and third and when going to and from lunch. Any exceptions will be clearly announced

BAGS AND PURSES

Purse size may be no larger than this sheet of paper. Larger purses must be kept in lockers. Large purses taken to class will be treated as dress code violations. Only Bradwell bags will be allowed. Only those sold at Bradwell Institute will be permitted in classrooms.

PERSONAL POSSESSIONS AND VALUABLES

You are discouraged from bringing personal possessions and valuables to school. The school is not responsible for any items lost or stolen. Large sums of money should not be brought to school.

EMERGENCY MESSAGES

All messages for students will be routed through the attendance office. Crucial emergency messages will be communicated in an appropriate manner. Messages of a less critical nature will be delivered at the end of the school day by calling the student to the attendance office.

All eighteen-year old students’ parents will be contacted by the Attendance Office prior to checking out. If the eighteen-year old student is legally emancipated from his/her parents or is considered homeless, an administrator’s signature will be required.

PERSONAL DELIVERIES TO STUDENTS

All deliveries of items of a personal nature (gym clothes, keys, lunch money, books, etc.) will be coordinated through the school’s Student Services office. Students should check by Student Services between classes (time permitting), after school, or when called to the office. Items such as flowers, balloon bouquets, birthday, special occasion gifts, or similar, non-necessary items, will not be delivered to students. Students are not to bring such items unless they are brought to coincide with a classroom activity. These items will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day. For safety and security purposes, students are not allowed to have outside food deliveries (pizza, Uber Eats, DoorDash, etc.) provide food services to them at school.

MEDIA CENTER

The Media Center is a treasure house of materials chosen to supplement the curriculum and highlight students’ interests and hobbies. Current magazines, daily newspapers, computers, and photocopying are only a few of the services available. In addition, students are allowed access to the Internet if they have proper clearance. Hours are from 7:50 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. each school day with extended hours available on various days.

STUDENT TEXTBOOKS AND IPADS

Each student will be issued textbooks and a student ipad. Students are responsible for their own IPad/textbooks. Lost or damaged IPad/textbooks will be replaced at the student’s expense. Failure to pay fines will result in IPad/textbooks not being issued until the financial obligation is met. In addition, diplomas will not be issued at graduation; transcripts will not be sent to colleges, and report cards will not be mailed home. It is the student’s responsibility to inform the teacher of any damage to the IPad/book when they are issued the book. Students are strongly encouraged to purchase insurance to cover the cost of damage to their school issued ipads. MEALS

The Liberty County School Nutrition program provides quality meals and nutrition education that contribute to the nutritional well-being of our students and their performance at school. The school nutrition program (SNP) participates in the National School Lunch, National School Breakfast and Seamless Summer Food Service Programs. All the programs are regulated and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture with the School and Community Nutrition Unit of the Georgia Department of Education overseeing the program administration.

The School Nutrition Program makes its revenue by receiving federal reimbursement for eligible meals served to all students. The School Nutrition Program is self-supporting and does not receive monies from the local board of education's general funds. The Nutrition Services department is made up of a team of food and nutrition 31 professionals that are dedicated to students' health, well-being and their ability to learn. We support learning by promoting healthy habits for lifelong nutrition and fitness practices. The Liberty School Nutrition Department is headed by Stephanie Fox. Mrs. Fox has over 35 years of food service experience with 15 of those years in the School Nutrition Program. Under her leadership are three central office staff members. Karen Hale is the School Nutrition Bookkeeper. Marie Lehigh is the School Nutrition Coordinator and Angie Perkins is the School Nutrition Secretary. Liberty County has 13 operating school cafeterias which employs over 83 food service employees. Each site is supervised by the cafeteria manager. All cafeteria managers are ServSafe Certified. Our School Nutrition Program participates in Special Assistance Provision II for breakfast where all breakfast meals are at NO COST to all students. Additionally, nutritious lunch meals are provided to all students at a price affordable to them. USDA Child Nutrition guidelines and standards are followed in preparation and service of meals.

NOTICE OF RIGHTS OF STUDENTS AND PARENTS UNDER SECTION 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as “Section 504,” is a nondiscrimination statute enacted by the United States Congress. The purpose of Section 504 is to prohibit discrimination and to assure that disabled students have educational opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to non-disabled students.

For more information regarding Section 504, or if you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact the Liberty County school system’s Section 504 Coordinator at the following address: Dr. Kathleen Leaver 200 Bradwell Street Hinesville, GA 31313

The implementing regulations for Section 504 as set out in 34 CFR Part 104 provides parents and /or students with the following rights: 1. Your child has the right to an appropriate education designed to meet his or her individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of non-disabled students. 34 CFR 104.33 2. Your child has the right to free educational services except for those fees that are imposed on non-disabled students or their parents. Insurers and similar third parties who provide services not operated or provided by the recipient are not relieved from an otherwise valid obligation to provide or pay for services provided to a disabled student. 34 CFR 104.33 3. Your child has a right to participate in an educational setting (academic and nonacademic) with non-disabled students to the maximum extent appropriate to his or her needs. 34 CFR 104.34 4. Your child has a right to facilities, services, and activities that are comparable to those provided for non- disabled students. 34 CFR 104.34 5. Your child has a right to an evaluation prior to a Section 504 determination of eligibility. 34 CFR 104.35 6. You have the right not to consent to the school system’s request to evaluate your child. 34 CFR 104.35 7. You have the right to ensure that evaluation procedures, which may include testing, conform to the requirements of 34 CFR 104.35. 8. You have the right to ensure that the school system will consider information from a variety of sources as appropriate, which may include aptitude and achievement tests, grades, teacher recommendations and observations, physical conditions, social or cultural background, medical records, and parental recommendations. 34 CFR 104.35 9. You have the right to ensure that placement decisions are made by a group of persons, including persons knowledgeable about your child, the meaning of the evaluation data, the placement options, and the legal requirements for least restrictive environment and comparable facilities. 34 CFR 104.35 10. If your child is eligible under Section 504, your child has a right to periodic reevaluations, including prior to any subsequent significant change of placement. 34 CFR 104.35 32

11. You have the right to notice prior to any actions by the school system regarding the identification, evaluation, or placement of your child. 34 CFR 104.36 12. You have the right to examine your child’s educational records. 34 CFR 104.36 13. You have the right to an impartial hearing with respect to the school system’s actions regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, or educational placement, with opportunity for parental participation in the hearing and representation by an attorney. 34 CFR 104.36 14. You have the right to receive a copy of this notice and a copy of the school system’s impartial hearing procedure upon request. 34 CFR 104.3 15. If you disagree with the decision of the impartial hearing officer (school board members and other district employees are not considered impartial hearing officers), you have a right to a review of that decision according to the school system’s impartial hearing procedure. 34 CFR 104.36 16. You have a right to, at any time; file a complaint with the United States Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. The address of the Regional Office (which includes Georgia) is:

Office for Civil Rights Region IV 61 Forsyth Street S. W. Suite 16T70 Atlanta, Georgia 30303-8909

FACULTY

TEACHER QUALITY ASSURANCE

Under federal regulations for Title I schools, parents have the right to request the credentials and qualifications of any teacher or paraprofessional by which their children are taught. As a parent of a student at Bradwell Institute, you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct your child. Federal law allows you to ask for certain information about your child’s classroom teachers, and requires us to give you this information in a timely manner if you ask for it. Specifically, you have the right to ask for the following information about each of your child’s classroom teachers; Whether the Georgia Department of Education has licensed or qualified the teacher for the grades and subjects he or she teaches. Whether the Georgia Department of Education has decided that the teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed or qualified under state regulations because of special circumstances. The teacher’s college major; whether the teacher has any advanced degrees and, if so, the subject of the degrees. Whether any teachers’ aides or similar paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if they do, their qualifications.

If you would like to receive any of this information, please call Mr. Roland Van Horn at 912-876-6121. SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

Courtesy to substitute teachers is one of the most vital ways to build good school-community relations. Students should treat substitute teachers as they would guests in their home. The school feels obligated to take severe action against students who persist in being uncooperative and disturbing to the substitute teacher.

GRADUATION

GRADUATION CEREMONY Required Dress for Graduates Boys Girls *Cap & Gown with tassel *Cap & Gown with collar and tassel *Solid color dress that will not show through the *White dress shirt gown. Dresses should not be longer than the gown. *Dark dress pants (navy, dark brown or black) *Dark shoes (navy, tan, dark brown or black) *Dark ties, dark socks, dark dress shoes (navy, dark *No flip flops, toms, or tennis shoes brown, or black) *NO jeans, khakis or tennis shoes

In addition, graduates should leave all purses, cameras, towels/sweat rags, caps, sunglasses/shades, graduation stoles not issued by the school, or other garments intended to be worn over the gown, food, drink, candy, gum, IPods, cell phones, pagers, any electronic device, glitter, silly string, confetti, and any other inappropriate items at home!

We expect our graduates to behave in an exemplary manner. There will be no gestures, no dancing, and no yelling while in line or on the stage. During the ceremony, there should be no talking and no gestures toward the audience. Should any graduates behave in a manner deemed inappropriate, they will be removed from the ceremony or lineup.

HONOR GRADUATES Those graduating seniors who have a 90 or better cumulative grade point average will be named Honor Graduates of their respective high schools in accordance with the LCSS policy.

VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN Effective with students who enter ninth grade in the 2015-2016 school year, the Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be selected from those students meeting graduation requirements. The student with the highest class ranking as determined by the highest cumulative numerical average based on a 100-point scale in the core courses (English, Math, Science, Social Studies and Foreign Language) at the end of first semester shall be recognized as Valedictorian. If there is a tie for Valedictorian, multiple Valedictorians shall be publicly recognized. In the event there is only one Valedictorian, the student with the second highest class ranking as determined by the highest cumulative numerical average based on a 100-point scale in the core courses at the end of first semester shall be recognized as Salutatorian. In the event there is only one Valedictorian named and a tie exists for Salutatorian, multiple Salutatorians shall be named.

In order to be named either Valedictorian or Salutatorian, as a minimum, students must have been enrolled in high school in the school system for the entire senior year at the school of graduation. In addition, students must have successfully completed a minimum of four Honors, Accelerated, Advance Placement or Dual Enrollment courses. Transfer credit used for calculation of highest cumulative numerical average on a 100-point scale in core courses for determination of class ranking for Valedictorian and/or Salutatorian shall be accepted only from schools accredited by an accrediting agency that is approved by the Georgia State Board of Education and the Liberty County Board of Education. All grades shall be calculated based on the Liberty County Schools grading scale.

CLASS RANKING

The class ranking shall be as follows:

A. Valedictorian 34

B. Salutatorian (in the event of only one Valedictorian being named) C. High Honor Graduate (Cumulative numerical average of 95.00-100.00 in core courses) D. Honor Graduate (Cumulative numerical average of 90.00-94.99 in core courses) E. Graduate

The ranking shall be based upon the highest cumulative numerical average in the core courses at the end of the first semester of the graduating year.

Public Recognition

The Valedictorian and/or Salutatorian shall be publicly recognized in a manner determined by the respective high school principals. In the event of a tie in class ranking for Valedictorian, the students' HOPE GPA will be used. If a tie still exists, SAT or ACT scored will be used. In the event there is still a tie, each student will be publicly acknowledged and no Salutatorian will be recognized. After determining there is no tie in class ranking for Valedictorian, a Salutatorian will be determined. If a tie in class ranking for Salutatorian exists, the students' HOPE GPA will be used. If a tie still exists, SAT or ACT scores will then be used. In the event there is still a tie, each student will be publicly acknowledged.

Criteria for Breaking Ties for Scholarships

If scholarships or financial grants are to be awarded based on class ranking as Valedictorian and/or Salutatorian and the scholarships or grants cannot be shared among the students tied for Valedictorian and/or Salutatorian, the following criteria will be used in turn to break ties in class ranking:

1. Number of Honors College Preparatory and Advanced Placement classes taken in grades 9-12; and if a tie still exists;

2. Highest cumulative numerical average based on a 100-point scale in Honors College Preparatory and Advanced Placement classes taken in grades 9-12.

HOPE SCHOLARSHIP

HOPE Scholarship Change as approved by the 2011 GA General Assembly: HOPE Scholarship/Grant ● Maintains the current merit-based HOPE Scholarship for students with a GPA of 3.0. ● The HOPE Scholarship award, the private HOPE award and the HOPE grant will be adjusted annually based on lottery revenue. ● Creates the Zell Miller Scholarship program for those students who graduate from high school with a GPA of 3.7 or higher and have received a score of at least 1200 on combined Critical Reading Score and Math Score on the SAT or have received a score of at least 26 on the ACT. These students will receive full tuition at Georgia’s public institutions and the full private HOPE award at our private institutions. ● Requires recipients of the HOPE Grant to earn a 3.0 GPA by the first HOPE checkpoint, once enrolled in technical college courses. ● Provides that students who already possess a postsecondary degree are ineligible to receive the HOPE Grant.

New academic rigor requirements were also included in the HOPE legislation. These changes will impact students graduating on or after May 1, 2015. In order to qualify for the hope scholarship, students must meet the academic rigor requirements required include at least four full credits from approved academic course categories listed at www.gafutures.org.

Beginning with the graduating class of 2007, the HOPE scholarship standard is changed. A summary of the changes are listed below:

Schools will no longer calculate GPA for HOPE; instead, they will transmit the entire student transcript, which will reflect all courses taken during high school. The Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC) will calculate student eligibility for the HOPE scholarship using un-weighted grades. Earned Advanced Placement (AP) course grades (weighted by BI) will be un-weighted by GSFC, then uniform weights will be added by the GSFC (all schools in the state will be weighted the same). BI will continue to weight AP and Honors courses for the purposes of Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and honor graduates. Honors courses will not be weighted by the GSFC for the purpose of calculating HOPE.

For additional information, please explore the HOPE scholarship website found at www.gafutures.org for further information.

DRILLS: FIRE/TORNADO/EMERGENCY/BUS EVACUATION DRILLS

Students, teachers, and other school system employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. The following safety drills are practiced:

*Fire Drills – These are held ten (10) times a year. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.

*Tornado/Severe Weather – Tornado drills are held once a year. Schools do practice walk through in order to ensure students know where to go and what to do.

A tornado watch: conditions are favorable for a tornado or severe weather. A tornado warning: tornado has been sighted.

If a tornado warning is issued, bus dismissal may be delayed. If students are in-route to or from school and a tornado warning is issued, buses are required to stop at the nearest school and students/driver take shelter there until the warning has passed.

*Bomb Threat – This is practiced once a year. Procedures are based on recommendations from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA).

*Lockdowns – (Please note that these will take place periodically each year.

When schools have been placed on a lockdown, you will be notified through our Crisis Communication Phone System before the end of the school day.

*Bus Evacuation - Safe Bus evacuation is practiced twice a year during physical education classes with all students.

The safety plans of our schools are routinely assessed to ensure that the best practices are in place to protect our children. Teachers and students are taught what to do in the event of fire, severe weather and school lockdowns. We practice so that our students, faculty and staff have the knowledge to protect themselves and so they know what to do if a situation arises. Our communication system is capable of calling every parent in a matter of minutes to help keep you fully informed.

Throughout the school year, our teachers will be sharing and practicing our safety plans with the students. It will be handled in a low-key way, but in a way that ensures that everyone understands what to do in an emergency situation.

In the event of an emergency, the students and staff in our system are our first priority. These procedures and practices are designed for their protection.

Liberty County School System 2020-2021 School Year Calendar

July 29-August 12 Professional Learning/Workdays August 13 Students Return (Virtual Learning) September 3 Send Progress Reports Home September 4 & 7 Labor Day (Holidays) October 7 End of First Nine Weeks October 9 Professional Learning/Workdays (5) Student Holiday October 12 Holiday October 16 Report Card Day November 10 Send Progress Reports Home November 11 Veteran’s Day (Holiday) November 23-27 Thanksgiving Break (Holidays) December 18 End of Second Nine Weeks December 21-January 1 Winter Break (Holidays) January 4-5 Professional Learning/Workdays (6, 7) Student Holidays January 6 Students Return to School January 11 Report Card Day January 18 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Holiday) February 8 Send Progress Reports Home February 15 President’s Day (Holiday) March 11 End of Third Nine Weeks March 15 Holiday March 16 Professional Learning/Workday (8) Student Holiday March 22 Report Card Day April 5-9 Spring Break (Holidays) April 22 Send Progress Reports Home May 21 Last Day of School May 21 End of Fourth Nine Weeks May 24-27 Professional Learning/Workdays (9, 10, 11, 12) May 28 Report Card Day