dƌƵƐƚŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟŽŶŽůůĞĐƟǀĞZĞƐƉŽŶƐŝďŝůŝƚLJĂƌĞWƌŝĚĞ 2016-2017 Student/Parent Handbook BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dr. Noel O. Garza, Member; Jose Garcia, Assistant Secretary; Melissa Smith, Secretary; Ricky Longoria, Member; and Keith Padilla, Member. Julio Cerda, Vice-President; Dr. Robert O’Connor, SISD Superintendent and Dr. Noe Oliveira, President.
The Sharyland Independent School District, as an equal opportunity educational provider and employer, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation and/or age in educational programs or activities that operates or in employment decisions. The district is required by Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, as well as board policy not to discriminate in such a manner. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)
If you suspect discrimination please contact: Rosa E. O’Donnell, Title IX at (956) 584-6400; Debra Alaniz, Section 504, Americans with Disabilities Act, at (956) 580-5218. General questions about the district should be directed to the Human Resources Department at (956) 584-6400.
1200 North Shary Rd. Mission, TX 78572 (956) 580-5200 www.sharylandisd.org ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Dr. Robert O’Connor Mark Dougherty Ricardo Palomin Superintendent Risk Manager/Maintenance Director Content Specialist (Math) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Pamela L. Montalvo Athit “Dede” Farias Cuahutemoc Paz Asst. Superintendent for Instructional Software Specialist Curriculum Elementary Director Curriculum & Instruction [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Angela Garcia Aliza Peña Connie Lopez Human Resources Specialist Human Resources Specialist Asst. Superintendent for [email protected] [email protected] Business-Finance & Student Services [email protected] Rebekah Gerlach Frank Perez Parental Engagement Coordinator Transportation Director Rosa E. O’Donnell [email protected] [email protected] Executive Director for Human Resources [email protected] Elizabeth Gongora DeVaughn Resczenski Bilingual/ESL Coordinator Database Administrator Jaime Ortega [email protected] [email protected] Executive Director for Finance [email protected] Teresa Gonzalez Elida Salinas Federal Programs, Parental Content Specialist (ELAR) Richard Thompson Engagement & SCE Director [email protected] Athletic Director [email protected] [email protected] Cynthia S. Sanchez Robbie Guerra Child Nutrition Director Debra Alaniz Castillo Senior Accountant [email protected] Special Education Director [email protected] [email protected] Cynthia S. Thorman Rocio N. Landin Payroll Director Cynthia Aldape Public Information Coordinator [email protected] CTE Specialist [email protected] [email protected] Dr. Carla Zuazua-Garza Yoelia Y. Nava Director of Assessment, Research Dr. Debra Arce CTE Director and Evaluation Specfi al Programs Educator [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Dalila Ovando David M. Culberson Purchasing Coordinator Technology Director [email protected] [email protected] PRINCIPAL & CAMPUS INFORMATION
Sharyland High School Sharyland North Junior High Romulo D. Martinez Elementary Carolyn Mendiola - Principal Lorene Bazan - Principal Patricia Viera - Principal [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 1216 N. Shary Road 5100 Dove Avenue 2571 E. 4th Street Mission, TX 78572 McAllen, TX 78504 Mission, TX 78572 Phone: (956) 580-5300 Phone: (956) 686-1415 Phone: (956) 584-4900 Fax: (956) 580-5311 Fax: (956) 668-0425 Fax: (956) 584-4908
Sharyland Pioneer High School Lloyd & Dolly Bentsen Elementary John H. Shary Elementary James D. Heath - Principal M. Cecilia Boyd - Principal Nayeli Carriaga - Principal [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 10001 N. Shary Road 2101 S. Taylor Road 2300 N. Glasscock Road Mission, TX 78572 McAllen, TX 78501 Mission, TX 78574 Phone: (956) 271-1600 Phone: (956) 668-0426 Phone: (956) 580-5282 Fax: (956) 584-3846 Fax: (956) 668-0430 Fax: (956) 580-5294
Sharyland Academic Olivero Garza, Sr. Elementary Harry Shimotsu Elementary Advanced Academy Veronica “Betty” Rodriguez - Principal Anthony Limon - Principal Ivan Karr - Principal [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 7905 N. Taylor Road 3101 San Mateo 1106 N. Shary Road, Bldg. A McAllen, TX 78504 Mission, TX 78572 Mission, TX 78572 Phone: (956) 580-5353 Phone: (956) 583-5643 Phone: (956) 584-6467 Fax: (956) 580-5363 Fax: (956) 519-1079 Fax: (956) 584-6455 Jessie L. Jensen Elementary Donna Wernecke Elementary Sharyland Alternative Niranda Flores - Principal Karen Meadors - Principal Education Center nfl [email protected] [email protected] Tizoc Silva - Administrator 501 N. Glasscock Blvd. 4500 Dove Avenue [email protected] Alton, TX 78573 McAllen, TX 78504 1501 N. Taylor Rd. Phone: (956) 580-5252 Phone: (956) 928-1063 Mission, TX 78572 Fax: (956) 580-5266 Fax: (956) 928-0221 Phone: (956) 584-6407 Fax: (956) 213-8009 Ruben Hinojosa Elementary Lou Ann Sarachene - Principal B.L. Gray Junior High [email protected] Lori Ann Garza - Principal 4205 Los Indios Road [email protected] Mission, Texas 78572 4400 S. Glasscock Road Phone: (956) 584-4990 Mission, TX 78572 Fax: (956) 584-4998 Phone: (956) 580-5333 Fax: (956) 580-5346
D SHARYLANDSHARYLAND INDEPENDENTINDEPENDENT SSCHOOLCHOOL DISTRICTDISTRICT
To Students and Parents:
Welcome to the 2016-2017 school year! Education is a team effort, and we know that students, parents, teachers, and other staff members all working together can make this a wonderfully successful year for our students. The Sharyland Independent School District Student/Parent Handbook is designed to provide basic information that you and your child will need during the school year. The handbook is divided into four sections: Section I—PARENTAL RIGHTS—with information to assist you in responding to school-related issues. We encourage you to take some time to closely review this section of the handbook. Section II—OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS—organized alphabetically by topic, and where possible, further divided by applicability to ages and/or grade levels, for quick access when searching for information on a specifi c issue. Section III---STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Section IV---EXTRA-CURRICULAR CODE OF CONDUCT Please be aware that the term “parent” unless otherwise noted, is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, any person granted some other type of lawful control of the student, or any other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student. Both students and parents should become familiar with the Sharyland ISD Student Code of Conduct, which is a document adopted by the board and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found as a section in this handbook and posted on the district’s website at www.sharylandisd.org. The Student Handbook is a general reference guide only and is designed to be in harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that it is not a complete statement of all policies, procedures, or rules that may be applicable in a given circumstance. In case of confl ict between board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of the student handbook, the provisions of board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the board are to be followed.Also, please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. The district encourages parents to stay informed of proposed board policy changes by attending board meetings. Changes in policy or other rules that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters or other communications. The district reserves the right to modify provisions of the Student Handbook at any time, whenever it is deemed necessary. Notice of any revision or modifi cation will be given as is reasonably practical under the circumstances. Although the Student Handbook may refer to rights established through law or district policy, the Student Handbook does not create any additional rights for students and parents. It does not, nor is it intended to, create contractual or legal rights between any student or parent and the district. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact the campus principal, or your child’s teacher. Your child’s school will request that you provide contact information, such as your current phone number and e-mail address, in order for the school to communicate items specifi c to your child, your child’s school, or the district. If you consent to receive such information through a landline or wireless phone, please ensure that you notify the school’s administration offi ce immediately upon a change in or disconnection of your phone number. The district or school may generate automated or pre-recorded messages, text messages, or real-time phone or e-mail communication, so prompt notifi cation of any change in contact information will be crucial to maintain timely communication with you. Standard messaging rates of your phone carrier may apply. If you have specifi c requests or needs related to how the district contacts you, please contact your child’s principal. Please see Safety on page 34 for information regarding contact with parents during an emergency situation. Also, please complete and return to your child’s campus the following forms provided in the forms packet distrubuted at the beginning of the year or upon the student’s enrollment: 1. Acknowledgment Form or Acknowledgment of Electronic Distribution of Student Handbook form; 2. Notice Regarding Directory Information and Parent’s Response Regarding Release of Student Information Form; 3. Parent’s Objection to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education form, if you choose to restrict the release of information to these entities [See Objecting to the Release of Directory Information on page 5 and Consent Required Before Student Participation in a Federally Funded Survey, Analysis, or Evaluation on page 6 for more information.] Please note that references to policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current board policy. The district’s offi cial policy manual is available for review online at www.sharylandisd.org. Dr. Robert O’Connor Superintendent TABLE OF CONTENTS REQUIRED FORMS Acknowledgment Form ------1 Notice Regarding Directory Information and Parent’s Response Regarding Release of Student Information------2 Federal Regulation Concerning the Inspection, Reinspection, Periodic Surveillance, Response Activities and Management Planning for our School District------2 Parent’s Objection to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education------3 STEPS: SOLUTIONS TO ELIMINATE PROBLEM SITUATIONS ------4 SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS ------5 CONSENT, OPT-OUT, AND REFUSAL RIGHTS ------5 Consent to Conduct a Psychological Evaluation ------5 Consent to Display a Student’s Original Works and Personal Information ------5 Consent to Receive Parenting and Paternity Awareness Instruction if Student is Under Age 14 ---- 5 Consent to Video or Audio Record a Student When Not Otherwise Permitted by Law------5 Limiting Electronic Communications with Students by District Employees ------5 Objecting to the Release of Directory Information ------5 Objecting to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------6 Participation in Third-Party Surveys ------6 Consent Required Before Student Participation in a Federally Funded Survey, Analysis, or Evaluation ------6 “Opting Out” of Participation in Other Types of Surveys or Screenings and the Disclosure of Personal Information ------6 REMOVING A STUDENT FROM INSTRUCTION OR EXCUSING A STUDENT FROM A REQUIRED ------6 COMPONENT OF INSTRUCTION------6 Human Sexuality Instruction------6 Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence in Grades 3–12 ------7 Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags ------7 Religious or Moral Beliefs ------7 Tutoring or Test Preparation ------7 RIGHT OF ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS, CURRICULUM MATERIALS, AND DISTRICT RECORDS/POLICIES---- 7 Instructional Materials ------7 Notices of Certain Student Misconduct to Noncustodial Parent ------7 Participation in Federally Required, State-Mandated, and District Assessments ------7 Student Records------7 Accessing Student Records ------7 Authorized Inspection and Use of Student Records ------7 Teacher and Staff Professional Qualifi cations ------9 STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES OR SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES ------9 Children of Military Families ------9 Parental Role in Certain Classroom and School Assignments ------9 Multiple Birth Siblings------9 Safety Transfers/Assignments ------9 Service/Assistance Animal Use by Students ------10 Students in the Conservatorship of the State (Foster Care) ------10 Students Who Are Homeless------10 Students Who Have Learning Diffi culties or Who Need Special Education Services ------10 Students Who Receive Special Education Services with Other School-Aged Children in the Home-10 Students Who Speak a Primary Language Other than English------11 Students With Physical or Mental Impairments Protected Under Section 504------11 vii SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS ------11 ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE ------11 Compulsory Attendance ------11 Age 19 and Older ------11 Between Ages 6 and 19------11 Prekindergarten and Kindergarten ------11 Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance ------11 All Grade Levels ------11 Secondary Grade Levels------12 Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance------12 All Grade Levels------12 Age 19 and Older ------12 Between Ages 6 and 19 ------12 Boundries and Attendance Zones------12 Attendance for Credit or Final Grade (Kindergarten Through Grade 12) ------12 Offi cial Attendance-Taking Time (All Grade Levels) ------13 Saturday School (Grades 9-12) ------13 Documentation After an Absence (All Grade Levels) ------13 Doctor’s Note After an Absence for Illness (All Grade Levels)------13 Leaving Campus During the School Day------13 Driver License Attendance Verifi cation (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------14 Excused Absences ------14 Medical Excuses (Partial Day)------14 Partial Day Attendance------14 Unexcused Absences ------14 Exessive Absences ------14 Transfer Absences------14 Pre-Arranged Absences ------14 ACCOUNTABILITY UNDER STATE AND FEDERAL LAW (All Grade Levels) ------15 BULLYING (All Grade Levels)------15 Sharyland Choose to Care Program------16 CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) PROGRAMS (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------16 CELEBRATIONS (All Grade Levels) ------16 CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND OTHER MALTREATMENT OF CHILDREN (All Grade Levels)------16 CLASS RANK/HIGHEST-RANKING STUDENT (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------16 CLASS SCHEDULES (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------16 COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------17 COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------17 COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS (All Grade Levels)------17 CONDUCT (All Grade Levels) ------17 Applicability of School Rules------17 Campus Behavior Coordinator------17 Disruptions of School Operations------18 Social Events ------18 COUNSELING------18 Academic Counseling ------18 Elementary and Middle/Junior High School Grade Levels ------18 High School Grade Levels------18 Personal Counseling (All Grade Levels)------18 COURSE CREDIT (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------18 CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Taken the Course/Subject (All Grade Levels) ------18 CREDIT BY EXAM FOR ADVANCEMENT/ACCELERATION—If a Student Has Not Taken the Course/Subject - 19 Kindergarten Acceleration ------19 viii Students in Grades 1–5------19 Students in Grades 6–12 ------19 DATING VIOLENCE, DISCRIMINATION, HARASSMENT, AND RETALIATION (All Grade Levels) ------19 Dating Violence ------19 Discrimination ------19 Harassment------20 Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Harassment ------20 Retaliation------20 Reporting Procedures ------20 Investigation of Report------20 DISCRIMINATION ------20 DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE, PUBLISHED MATERIALS, OR OTHER DOCUMENTS (All Grade Levels) ---- 21 School Materials------21 Nonschool Materials ------21 From Students ------21 From Others------21 DRESS AND GROOMING (All Grade Levels)------21 ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES (All Grade Levels)------21 Possession and Use of Personal Telecommunications Devices, Including Mobile Telephones ------21 Possession and Use of Other Personal Electronic Devices ------22 Instructional Use of Personal Telecommunications and Other Electronic Devices------22 Acceptable Use of District Technology Resources ------22 Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources------22 END-OF-COURSE (EOC) ASSESSMENTS------22 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS (All Grade Levels) ------23 Standards of Behavior------23 Offi ces and Elections------23 FEES (All Grade Levels)------23 FUNDRAISING (All Grade Levels)------24 GANG-FREE ZONES (All Grade Levels) ------24 GENDER-BASED HARASSMENT ------24 GRADE-LEVEL CLASSIFICATION (Grades 9–12 Only) ------24 GRADING GUIDELINES (All Grade Levels) ------24 GRADUATION (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------24 Requirements for a Diploma for a Student Enrolled in High School Prior to the 2014–15 School Year--- 24 Requirements for a Diploma Beginning with the 2014–15 School Year ------24 Testing Requirements for Graduation ------24 Minimum, Recommended, and Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Graduation Programs ----- 24 Foundation Graduation Program------25 Personal Graduation Plans for Students Under the Foundation Graduation Program ------25 Students With Disabilities ------25 Graduation Activities ------26 Graduation Speakers------26 HARASSMENT------26 HAZING (All Grade Levels)------26 HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS ------26 Nurse------26 Emergency Treatement ------26 Student Illness (All Grade Levels) ------26 Bacterial Meningitis (All Grade Levels)------27 Food Allergies (All Grade Levels)------27 Head Lice (All Grade Levels) ------27 Physical Activity Requirements------27 ix School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) (All Grade Levels)------28 Student Wellness Policy/Wellness Plan (All Grade Levels) ------28 Other Health-Related Matters------28 Physical Fitness Assessment (Grades 3–12) ------28 Vending Machines (All Grade Levels)------28 Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Prohibited (All Grade Levels and All Others on School Property)------28 Asbestos Management Plan (All Grade Levels) ------28 Pest Management Plan (All Grade Levels) ------29 HOMELESS STUDENTS (All Grade Levels)------29 ILLNESS ------29 IMMUNIZATION (All Grade Levels)------29 LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES (All Grade Levels) ------29 Questioning of Students ------29 Students Taken Into Custody ------29 Notifi cation of Law Violations------30 LEAVING CAMPUS (All Grade Levels)------30 At Any Other Time During the School Day------30 LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENT STUDENTS (All Grade Levels) ------30 LOST AND FOUND (All Grade Levels) ------30 MEDICINE AT SCHOOL (All Grade Levels)------30 REGULATIONS FOR GIVING MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOL ------31 Psychotropic Drugs------31 NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT (All Grade Levels) ------31 PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT (All Grade Levels)------32 Working Together------32 PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS/HEALTH SCREENINGS ------32 Athletics’ Participation (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------32 PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF SILENCE (All Grade Levels) ------32 PRAYER (All Grade Levels) ------32 PROMOTION AND RETENTION ------32 Elementary and Middle/Junior High Grade Levels ------32 High School Grade Levels------33 RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL------33 REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES (All Grade Levels) ------33 RETALIATION------34 SAFETY (All Grade Levels) ------34 Accident Insurance ------34 Preparedness Drills: Evacuation, Severe Weather, and Other Emergencies------34 Emergency Medical Treatment and Information ------34 Emergency School-Closing Information ------34 SAT, ACT, AND OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTS------35 SCHOOL FACILITIES------35 Use by Students Before and After School (All Grade Levels)------35 Conduct Before and After School (All Grade Levels) ------35 Use of Hallways During Class Time (All Grade Levels)------35 Cafeteria Services (All Grade Levels) ------35 Library (All Grade Levels)------35 Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------35 SEARCHES ------35 Students’ Desks and Lockers (All Grade Levels) ------35 Telecommunications and Other Electronic Devices (All Grade Levels)------35 Vehicles on Campus (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------36 Trained Dogs (All Grade Levels)------36 x Metal Detectors (All Grade Levels) ------36 Drug Testing (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------36 SEXUAL HARASSMENT------36 SPECIAL PROGRAMS (All Grade Levels)------36 STANDARDIZED TESTING ------36 Secondary Grade Levels ------36 SAT/ACT (Scholastic Aptitude Test and American College Test)------36 TSI (Texas Success Initiative) Assessment------36 STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness)------37 Grades 3–8 ------37 High School Courses—End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments ------37 STEROIDS (Secondary Grade Levels Only)------37 STUDENTS IN FOSTER CARE (All Grade Levels) ------37 STUDENT SPEAKERS (All Grade Levels) ------37 SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION (All Grade Levels)------38 SUICIDE AWARENESS (All Grade Levels) ------38 SUMMER SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) ------38 TARDIES (All Grade Levels)------38 TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS, TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT, AND OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL - 38 TRANSFERS (All Grade Levels)------38 TRANSPORTATION (All Grade Levels) ------38 School-Sponsored Trips ------38 Buses and Other School Vehicles ------38 VANDALISM (All Grade Levels)------39 VIDEO CAMERAS (All Grade Levels)------39 VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) ------39 General Visitors ------39 Visitors Participating in Special Programs for Students------39 VOLUNTEERS (All Grade Levels) ------39 VOTER REGISTRATION (Secondary Grade Levels Only) ------39 WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL (All Grade Levels)------39 SECTION III: STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT ------39 Purpose ------40 SCHOOL DISTRICT AUTHORITY AND JURISDICTION------40 Reporting Crimes ------40 ‘Parent’ Defi ned ------40 Participating in Graduation Activities ------40 STANDARDS FOR STUDENT CONDUCT ------41 Assemblies (Pep Rallies)------41 Education Resource Offi cers on Campuses ------41 Identifi cation Cards ------41 Visitors ------41 General Guidelines When Imposing Discipline ------41 Gang, Gang Activity, Cults, Secret Societies------41 GENERAL CONDUCT VIOLATIONS ------41 Disregard for Authority ------42 Mistreatment of Others ------42 Property Offenses------43 Possession of Prohibited Items------43 Possession of Telecommunications Devices ------44 Illegal, Prescription, and Over-the-Counter Drugs------44 Misuse of Technology Resources and the Internet ------44 Uploading of Images ------45
xi Safety Transgressions ------45 School-Sponsored Publications ------46 Non School-Sponsored Publications ------46 Miscellaneous Offenses ------46 STUDENT DRESS CODE AND GROOMING------46 Boys’ Dress Code ------47 Girls’ Dress Code ------47 DISCIPLINE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES------48 Students with Disabilities ------48 Techniques------48 DISCIPLINE MANAGEMENT PLAN------49 Infractions and Consequences ------49 Disruptions ------51 Notifi cation ------51 Appeals------51 Removal from School Bus ------53 REMOVAL FROM THE REGULAR EDUCATION SETTING------53 Routine Referral ------53 Formal Removal ------53 Returning Student to Classroom ------53 OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION ------53 Misconduct ------53 Process ------53 DISCIPLINARY ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM (DAEP) PLACEMENT------53 The Bridge at Sharyland High School------54 Discretionary Placement: Misconduct That May Result in DAEP Placement ------54 Misconduct Identifi ed in State Law------55 Mandatory Placement: Misconduct That Requires DAEP Placement ------55 Sexual Assault and Campus Assignments ------55 Emergencies ------55 Process ------55 Conference ------55 Consideration of Mitigating Factors ------55 Placement Order------56 Coursework Notice ------56 Length of Placement ------56 Exceeds One Year ------56 Exceeds School Year ------56 Exceeds 60 Days ------56 Appeals ------56 Restrictions during Placement ------56 Placement Review------56 Additional Misconduct------57 Notice of Criminal Proceedings ------57 Withdrawal during Process------57 Newly Enrolled Students ------57 Emergency Placement Procedure ------57 PLACEMENT AND/OR EXPULSION FOR CERTAIN OFFENSES ------57 Registered Sex Offenders ------57 Review Committee ------58 Newly Enrolled Student ------58 Appeal ------58 Certain Felonies------58 xii Hearing and Required Findings ------58 Length of Placement ------58 Newly Enrolled Students------58 EXPULSION ------58 Discretionary Expulsion: Misconduct That May Result in Expulsion ------58 Any Location ------59 At School, Within 300 Feet, or at School Event ------59 Within 300 Feet of School------59 Property of Another District ------59 While in DAEP ------59 Mandatory Expulsion: Misconduct That Requires Expulsion ------59 Under Federal Law ------60 Mandatory Federal Requirements for Student Expulsion for Firearms ------60 Under the Texas Penal Code ------60 Under Age Ten ------60 Emergency ------60 Process ------60 Hearing ------60 Board Review of Expulsion ------61 Court Involvement------61 Placement of Student Pending Court Disposition------61 Expulsion Orders Provided to Receiving School Districts ------61 Court-Related Children and Liaison Offi cers ------61 Reports to Local Law Enforcement ------61 Notifi cation to Law Enforcement Authorities ------61 Form of Notice Required------61 Additional Notice to Employees------61 Destruction of Certain Records from Law Enforcement Offi cers ------62 Expulsion Order ------62 Length of Expulsion ------62 Withdrawal during Process ------62 Additional Misconduct ------62 Restrictions during Expulsion ------62 Newly Enrolled Students ------62 Emergency Expulsion Procedures ------62 DAEP Placement of Expelled Students ------63 Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program (High Population Counties)------63 Funding of Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Programs ------63 Transfer of Funds------63 Designated Expenditures------63 Assistance in identifying Funds ------63 Coordination between School Districts and Juvenile Boards------63 SECTION IV: EXTRACURRICULAR CODE OF CONDUCT------63 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ------63 Extracurricular Absences ------64 JURISDICTION------64 Conduct Expectations ------64 Prohibited Conduct------65 Procedures------65 Disciplinary Action ------65 Insurance for Students in Extracurricular Activities ------65 Glossary (online: www.sharylanisd.org)
xiii Acknowledgment Form
My child and I have received a copy of the Sharyland Independent School District Student/Parent Handbook and the Student Code of Conduct for 2016–2017. I understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year and that all students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to the disciplinary consequences outlined in the Code. If I have any questions regarding this handbook, I should direct those questions to the principal, teacher or contact (956) 580-5200.
Printed name of student:
Signature of student:
Signature of parent:
Date:
1 Notice Regarding Directory Information and Parent’s Response Regarding Release of Student Information
State law requires the district to give you the following information:
Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows the procedures for requesting the information unless the parent or guardian objects to the release of the directory information about the student. If you do not want Sharyland Independent School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the district in writing within ten school days of your child’s fi rst day of instruction for this school year.
This means that the district must give certain personal information (called “directory information”) about your child to any person who requests it, unless you have told the district in writing not to do so. In addition, you have the right to tell the district that it may, or may not, use certain personal information about your child for specifi c school-sponsored purposes. [See Objecting to the Release of Directory Information on page 5 for more information.]
Federal Regulation Concerning the Inspection, Reinspection, Periodic Surveillance, Response Activities and Management Planning for our School District
Sharyland ISD is working hard to maintain compliance with the federal AHERA regulation. We are currently in the process of re-inspection and updating the management plan for each of our school campuses as required. Should you desire to review the management plan for your child’s school, a copy of the plan is available in the principal’s offi ce. If you have any questions about the plan of this federally mandated program, please contact Risk Manager, Asbestos Designated Person at 956-580-5200 ext. 1012.
2 Parent’s Objection to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education
Federal law requires that the district release to military recruiters and institutions of higher education, upon request, the name, address, and phone number of secondary school students enrolled in the district, unless the parent or eligible student directs the district not to release information to these types of requestors without prior written consent. [See Objecting to the Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education on page 6 for more information.]
Parent: Please complete the following only if you do not want your child’s information released to military recruiter or an institution of higher education without your prior consent.
I, parent of (student’s name), request that the district not release my child’s name, address, and telephone number to a military recruiter or institution of higher education without my prior written consent.
Parent signature: Date:
Please note that if this form is not returned with the other materials identifying what the district considers directory information, the district will assume that permission has been granted for the release of this information.
3 STEPS: SOLUTIONS TO ELIMINATE PROBLEM SITUATIONS
Situations may arise in Sharyland ISD throughout the school year which cause concern for parents, teachers, and students. Resolving those situations quickly to the satisfaction of all parties involved benefits the educational program of the district.
These “Steps” are designed to help you resolve problem situations quickly and satisfactorily. Please use these steps if you have a concern. 4
CONTACT THE SCHOOL BOARD The School Board hears concerns that have 3 not been resolved at a previous level. To present your concern to the Board, a written request must be submitted to the superintendent. CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE CENTRAL ADMINISTRATOR 2 If the previous steps have been unsuccessful, contact the appropriate central administrator. This may be a program director, the assistant superintendent, or the superintendent.
CONTACT THE PRINCIPAL If step one does not resolve the concern, discuss it with the principal. He or she is the 1 professional educator in charge of the campus and the person responsible for handling concerns regarding the school’s operation. The principal can share campus information and explain policies, guidelines and procedures.
CONTACT THE APROPRIATE STAFF MEMBER The first step in resolving a concern is to discuss it with the staff member involved - the teacher, coach, bus driver, etc. More than 95 percent of all concerns are resolved at this level.
4 SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS Limiting Electronic Communications with Students by This section of the Sharyland Independent School District District Employees Student/Parent Handbook includes information related to Teachers and other approved employees are permitted by certain rights of parents as specifi ed in state or federal law. the district to communicate with students through the use of electronic media within the scope of the individual’s professional CONSENT, OPT-OUT, AND REFUSAL RIGHTS responsibilities. For example, a teacher may set up a social Consent to Conduct a Psychological Evaluation networking page for his or her class that has information A district employee will not conduct a psychological related to class work, homework, and tests. As a parent, you examination, test, or treatment without obtaining prior written are welcome to join or become a member of such a page. parental consent unless the examination, test, or treatment is An employee described above may also contact a student required under state or federal law regarding requirements individually through electronic media to communicate about for special education or by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) items such as homework or upcoming tests. for child abuse investigations and reports. However, instant or text messages sent to an individual student are only allowed if a district employee with responsibility for Consent to Display a Student’s Original Works and an extracurricular activity needs to communicate with a student Personal Information participating in the extracurricular activity. The employee is Teachers may display students’ work, which may include required to include his or her immediate supervisor and the personally identifi able student information, in classrooms or student’s parent as recipients on all text messages. elsewhere on campus as recognition of student achievement. If you prefer that your child not receive any one-to-one However, the district will seek parental consent before electronic communications from a district employee or if you displaying students’ artwork, special projects, photographs have questions related to the use of electronic media by district taken by students, original videos or voice recordings, and other employees, please contact the campus principal. original works on the district’s website, a website affi liated Objecting to the Release of Directory Information or sponsored by the district, such as a campus or classroom website, and in district publications, which may include printed The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, permits materials, videos, or other methods of mass communication. the district to disclose appropriately designated “directory information” from a child’s education records without written Consent to Receive Parenting and Paternity Awareness consent. “Directory information” is information that is generally Instruction if Student is Under Age 14 not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released. A child under the age of 14 must have parental permission Examples include a student’s photograph for publication in to receive instruction in the district’s parenting and paternity the school yearbook; a student’s name and grade level for awareness program; otherwise, the child will not be allowed purposes of communicating class and teacher assignment; to participate in the instruction. This program, developed by the name, weight, and height of an athlete for publication the Offi ce of the Texas Attorney General and the State Board in a school athletic program; a list of student birthdays for of Education (SBOE), is incorporated into the district’s health generating schoolwide or classroom recognition; a student’s education classes. name and photograph posted on a district-approved and -managed social media platform; and the names and grade Consent to Video or Audio Record a Student When Not levels of students submitted by the district to a local newspaper Otherwise Permitted by Law or other community publication to recognize the A/B honor roll State law permits the school to make a video or voice recording for a specifi c grading period. Directory Information” will be without parental permission for the following circumstances: released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it. • When it is to be used for school safety; However, a parent or eligible student may object to the • When it relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or release of a student’s directory information. This objection must extracurricular activity; be made in writing to the principal within ten school days of • When it relates to media coverage of the school, or your child’s fi rst day of instruction for this school year. [Forms • When it relates to the promotion of student safety as are available at your child’s school]. The district has designated the following as directory provided by law for a student receiving special education information: all district publications and announcements. If you services in certain settings. do not object to the use of your child’s information for these The district will seek parental consent through a written request limited school-sponsored purposes, the school will not need to before making any other video or voice recording of your ask your permission each time the district wishes to use the child not otherwise allowed by law. information for the school-sponsored purposes listed above. [See Video Cameras on page 39 for more information, For these specifi c school-sponsored purposes, the district has including a parent’s right to request video and audio equipment designated the following as directory information: name; be placed in certain special education settings.] address; telephone listing; e-mail address; photograph; date 5 and place of birth; major fi eld of study; degrees, honors, and permission for your child’s participation in: awards received; dates of attendance; grade level; most • Any survey concerning the private information listed recent school previously attended; participation in offi cially above, regardless of funding. recognized activities and sports; weight and height, if a • School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use member of an athletic team; enrollment status. If you do not of personal information gathered from your child for the object to the use of your child’s information for these limited purpose of marketing, selling, or otherwise disclosing that school-sponsored purposes, the school will not need to ask your information. Note that this does not apply to the collection, permission each time the district wishes to use the information for disclosure, or use of personal information collected the school-sponsored purposes listed above. from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, Also review the information at Authorized Inspection and Use evaluating, or providing educational products or services of Student Records on page 7. for, or to, students or educational institutions. • Any nonemergency, invasive physical examination Objecting to the Release of Student Information to or screening required as a condition of attendance, Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education administered and scheduled by the school in advance and (Secondary Grade Levels Only) not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety The district is required by federal law to comply with a request of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted for students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless or required under state law. [See policies EF and FFAA.] parents have advised the district not to release their child’s As a parent, you may inspect a survey created by a third party information without prior written consent. A form included in before the survey is administered or distributed to your child. the forms packet is available if you do not want the district to REMOVING A STUDENT FROM INSTRUCTION provide this information to military recruiters or institutions of higher education. OR EXCUSING A STUDENT FROM A REQUIRED COMPONENT OF INSTRUCTION Participation in Third-Party Surveys Consent Required Before Student Participation in a Human Sexuality Instruction Federally Funded Survey, Analysis, or Evaluation As a part of the district’s curriculum, students receive instruction Your child will not be required to participate without parental related to human sexuality. The School Health Advisory Council consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole (SHAC) is involved with the selection of course materials for or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns: such instruction. • Political affi liations or beliefs of the student or the student’s State law requires that any instruction related to human sexuality, parent. sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodefi ciency virus • Mental or psychological problems of the student or the or acquired immune defi ciency syndrome must: student’s family. • Present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred • Sexual behavior or attitudes. choice of behavior in relationship to all sexual activity for • Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior. unmarried persons of school age; • Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student • Devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity has a close family relationship. than to any other behavior; • Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships • Emphasize that abstinence is the only method that is with lawyers, physicians, and ministers. 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, sexually • Religious practices, affi liations, or beliefs of the student transmitted diseases, and the emotional trauma associated or parents. with adolescent sexual activity; • Income, except when the information is required by law • Direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the participate in a special program or to receive fi nancial most effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually assistance under such a program. transmitted diseases; and You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument • If included in the content of the curriculum, teach and any instructional materials used in connection with such contraception and condom use in terms of human use a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For further information, see reality rates instead of theoretical laboratory rates. policy EF(LEGAL).] In accordance with state law, below is a summary of the district’s curriculum regarding human sexuality instruction: “Opting Out” of Participation in Other Types of Sharyland ISD will promote abstinence as our sex education Surveys or Screenings and the Disclosure of Personal curriculum for students in the district. (SB 283; TEC 28.004). Information As a parent, you are entitled to review the curriculum materials. As a parent, you have a right to receive notice of and deny In addition, you may remove your child from any part of the 6 human sexuality instruction with no academic, disciplinary, or RIGHT OF ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS, other penalties. You may also choose to become more involved CURRICULUM MATERIALS, AND DISTRICT RECORDS/ with the development of curriculum used for this purpose by POLICIES becoming a member of the district’s SHAC. Please see the campus principal for additional information. Instructional Materials Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials in Grades 3–12 used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been You may request that your child be excused from recitation administered to your child. of a portion of the Declaration of Independence. State law You are also entitled to request that the school allow your child requires students in social studies classes in grades 3–12 to to take home any instructional materials used by the student. recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence If the school determines that suffi cient availability exists to during Celebrate Freedom Week unless (1) you provide a grant the request, the student must return the materials at the written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the beginning of the next school day if requested to do so by the district determines that your child has a conscientious objection child’s teacher. to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends Notices of Certain Student Misconduct to Noncustodial diplomatic immunity. [See policy EHBK(LEGAL).] Parent Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she As a parent, you may request that your child be excused from be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance any written notice usually provided to a parent related to your to the United States fl ag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a Disciplinary Texas fl ag. The request must be in writing. State law does Alternative Education Program (DAEP) or expulsion. [See policy not allow your child to be excused from participation in the FO(LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.] required minute of silence or silent activity that follows. [See Participation in Federally Required, State-Mandated, Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence on page 32 and District Assessments and policy EC(LEGAL).] You may request information regarding any state or district Religious or Moral Beliefs policy related to your child’s participation in assessments required by federal law, state law, or the district. You may remove your child temporarily from the classroom if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to Student Records participate confl icts with your religious or moral beliefs. The Accessing Student Records removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may You may review your child’s student records. These records not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy include: grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by • Attendance records, the school and by state law. • Test scores, Tutoring or Test Preparation Purposes • Grades, Based on informal observations, evaluative data such as grades • Disciplinary records, earned on assignments or tests, or results from diagnostic • Counseling records, assessments, a teacher may determine that a student is in need • Psychological records, of additional targeted assistance in order for the student to • Applications for admission, achieve mastery in state-developed essential knowledge • Health and immunization information, and skills. The school will always attempt to provide tutoring • Other medical records, and strategies for test-taking in ways that prevent removal • Teacher and school counselor evaluations, from other instruction as much as possible. In accordance with • Reports of behavioral patterns, state law and policy EC, the school will not remove a student • State assessment instruments that have been administered from a regularly scheduled class for remedial tutoring or test to your child, and preparation for more than ten percent of the school days on • Teaching materials and tests used in your child’s classroom which the class is offered, unless the student’s parent consents Authorized Inspection and Use of Student Records to this removal. A federal law, known as the Family Educational Rights and The school may also offer tutorial services, which students Privacy Act, or FERPA, affords parents and eligible students whose grades are below 70 will be required to attend. certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. For Also refer to policies EC and EHBC, and contact your student’s purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is teacher with questions about any tutoring programs provided 18 or older or who is attending an institution of postsecondary by the school. 7 education. These rights, as discussed in this section as well as at attorney, consultant, third-party vendor that offers Objecting to the Release of Directory Information on page online programs or software, auditor, medical consultant, 5, are: therapist, school resource offi cer, or volunteer); a parent • The right to inspect and review student records within or student serving on a school committee; or a parent 45 days after the day the school receives a request for or student assisting a school offi cial in the performance access. of his or her duties. “Legitimate educational interest” • The right to request an amendment to a student record in a student’s records includes working with the student; the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate, considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s misleading, or otherwise in violation of FERPA. case, or an individualized education program for a student • The right to provide written consent before the school with disabilities; compiling statistical data; reviewing an educational record to fulfi ll the offi cial’s professional discloses personally identifi able information from responsibility to the school and the student; or investigating or the student’s records, except to the extent that FERPA evaluating programs. authorizes disclosure without consent. • To authorized representatives of various governmental • The right to fi le a complaint with the U.S. Department of agencies, including juvenile service providers, the U.S. Education concerning failures by the school to comply with Comptroller General’s offi ce, the U.S. Attorney General’s FERPA requirements. The name and address of the offi ce offi ce, the U.S. Secretary of Education, TEA, the U.S. that administers FERPA are: Secretary of Agriculture’s offi ce, and Child Protective Family Policy Compliance Offi ce Services (CPS) case workers or other child welfare U.S. Department of Education representatives, in certain cases. 400 Maryland Avenue, SW • To individuals or entities granted access in response to a Washington, DC 20202-5901 subpoena or court order. • To another school, school district/system, or institution Both FERPA and state laws safeguard student records from of postsecondary education to which a student seeks or unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and intends to enroll or in which he or she is already enrolled. eligible students certain rights of privacy. Before disclosing any • In connection with fi nancial aid for which a student has personally identifi able information from a student’s records, applied or which the student has received. the district must verify the identity of the person, including a • To accrediting organizations to carry out accrediting parent or the student, requesting the information. Virtually all functions. information pertaining to student performance, including grades, • To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confi dential the school, in order to develop, validate, or administer educational records. predictive tests; administer student aid programs; or Inspection and release of student records is primarily restricted improve instruction. to an eligible student or a student’s parents—whether married, • To appropriate offi cials in connection with a health or separated, or divorced—unless the school is given a copy of a court safety emergency. order terminating parental rights or the right to access a student’s • When the district discloses information it has designated education records. Federal law requires that, as soon as a as directory information [see Objecting to the Release student becomes18, is emancipated by a court, or enrolls in of Directory Information on page 5 for opportunities to a postsecondary institution, control of the records goes to the prohibit this disclosure]. student. The parents may continue to have access to the records, Release of personally identifi able information to any other however, if the student is a dependent for tax purposes and person or agency—such as a prospective employer or for under limited circumstances when there is a threat to the health a scholarship application—will occur only with parental or and safety of the student or other individuals. student permission as appropriate. FERPA permits the disclosure of personally identifi able The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled information from a student’s education records, without written students at the assigned school. The superintendent is the consent of the parent or eligible student, in the following custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or circumstances: graduated. • When district school offi cials have what federal law A parent or eligible student who wishes to inspect the student’s refers to as a “legitimate educational interest” in a records should submit a written request to the records custodian student’s records. School offi cials would include board identifying the records he or she wishes to inspect. Records may members and employees, such as the superintendent, be inspected by a parent or eligible student during regular administrators, and principals; teachers, school counselors, school hours. The records custodian or designee will respond diagnosticians, and support staff (including district health to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of or district medical staff); a person or company with the records. whom the district has contracted or allowed to provide A parent or eligible student who provides a written request and a particular institutional service or function (such as an pays copying costs of ten cents per page may obtain copies. 8 If circumstances prevent inspection during regular school hours • Immunization requirements. and the student qualifi es for free or reduced-price meals, the • Grade level, course, or educational program placement. district will either provide a copy of the records requested or • Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular make other arrangements for the parent or student to review activities. these records. The address of the superintendent’s offi ce is • Graduation requirements. 1200 N. Shary Road, Mission, TX 78572. In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records her parent, including a stepparent or legal guardian, related and request a correction or amendment if the records are to leave or deployment activities who has been called to active considered inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of duty for, is on leave from, or is returning from a deployment of the student’s privacy rights. A request to correct a student’s at least four months may be excused by the district. The district record should be submitted to the appropriate records will permit no more than fi ve excused absences per year for custodian. The request must clearly identify the part of the this purpose. For the absence to be excused, the absence record that should be corrected and include an explanation must occur no earlier than the 60th day before deployment of how the information in the record is inaccurate. If the or no later than the 30th day after the parent’s return from district denies the request to amend the records, the parent deployment. or eligible student has the right to request a hearing. If the Additional information may be found at records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the parent http://tea.texas.gov/index2.aspx?id=7995. or eligible student has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the Parental Role in Certain Classroom and School student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may Assignments be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course or Multiple Birth Siblings on an examination is handled through the general complaint As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings process found in policy FNG(LOCAL). A grade issued by a (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and classroom teacher can be changed only if, as determined by campus, you may request that they be placed either in the the board of trustees, the grade is arbitrary, erroneous, or same classroom or in separate classrooms. Your written inconsistent with the district’s grading policy. [See FINALITY OF request must be submitted no later than the 14th day after GRADES at FNG(LEGAL), Report Cards/Progress Reports and the enrollment of your children. [See policy FDB(LEGAL).] Conferences on page 33, and Complaints and Concerns on page 17 for an overview of the process.] Safety Transfers/Assignments The district’s policy regarding student records found at policy FL As a parent, you may: is available on the district’s website at www.sharylandisd.org. • Request the transfer of your child to another classroom The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies or campus if your child has been determined by the of student records do not extend to all records. Materials that district to have been a victim of persistent bullying as the are not considered educational records—such as a teacher’s term is defi ned by Education Code 37.0832. Transportation personal notes about a student that are shared only with a is not provided for a transfer to another campus. See the substitute teacher—do not have to be made available to the principal for information. parents or student. • Consult with district administrators if your child has been Teacher and Staff Professional Qualifi cations determined by the district to have engaged in bullying and the board decides to transfer your child You may request information regarding the professional to another classroom or campus. Transportation is not qualifi cations of your child’s teachers, including whether a provided for a transfer to another campus. teacher has met state qualifi cation and licensing criteria for the [See Bullying on page 15 policy FDB and policy FFI] grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides • Request the transfer of your child to attend a instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or safe public school in the district if your child attends other provisional status for which state requirements have been school at a campus identifi ed by TEA as persistently waived; and whether the teacher is currently teaching in the dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent fi eld of discipline of his or her certifi cation. You also have the criminal offense while at school or on school grounds. right to request information about the qualifi cations of any [See policy FDE(LOCAL).] paraprofessional who may provide services to your child. • Request the transfer of your child to another district campus STUDENTS WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES OR SPECIAL or a neighboring district if your child has been the victim CIRCUMSTANCES of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether the assault occurred on or off Children of Military Families campus, and that student has been convicted of or Children of military families will be provided fl exibility placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. If regarding certain district requirements, including: the victim does not wish to transfer, the district will 9 transfer the assailant in accordance with policy FDE. school in the attendance area where the student is currently Service/Assistance Animal Use by Students residing. [See also Credit by Examination for Advancement/Acceleration A parent of a student who uses a service/assistance animal on page 19, Course Credit on page 18, and Homeless Students because of the student’s disability must submit a request in on page 29 for more information.] writing to the principal at least ten district business days before bringing the service/assistance animal on campus. Students Who Have Learning Diffi culties or Who Need Students in the Conservatorship of the State (Foster Care) Special Education Services A student who is currently in the conservatorship (custody) of If a child is experiencing learning diffi culties, the parent may the state and who enrolls in the district after the beginning contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s of the school year will be allowed creditby-examination overall general education referral or screening system for opportunities outside the district’s established testing windows, support services. This system links students to a variety of and the district will grant proportionate course credit by support options, including referral for a special education semester (partial credit) when a student does only passes one evaluation. Students having diffi culty in the regular classroom semester of a two-semester course. should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other A student who is currently in the conservatorship (custody) support services that are available to all students including of the state and who is moved outside of the district’s or a process based on Response to Intervention (RtI). The school’s attendance boundaries, or who is initially placed in implementation of RtI has the potential to have a positive the conservatorship of the state and who is moved outside impact on the ability of school districts to meet the needs of all the district’s or school’s boundaries, is entitled to continue in struggling students. enrollment at the school he or she was attending prior to the At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for placement or move until the student reaches the highest grade special education services. Within a reasonable amount of level at the particular school. In addition, if a student in grade time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If 11 or 12 transfers to another district but does not meet the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notifi ed and asked to graduation requirements of the receiving district, the student provide consent for the evaluation. The district must complete can request to receive a diploma from the previous district if he the evaluation and the report within the timeline prescribed by or she meets the criteria to graduate from the previous district. law once the district receives written consent. The district must [See also Credit by Examination For Advancement/Acceleration on give a copy of the report to the parent. page 19, Course Credit on page 18, and Students in Foster Care If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the on page 37 for more information.] district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include Students Who Are Homeless a statement that informs the parent of his or her rights if the parent Children who are homeless will be provided fl exibility disagrees with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform regarding certain district the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural provisions, including: Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities. • Proof of residency requirements; Additional information regarding the Individuals with • Immunization requirements; Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is available from the school • Educational program placement, if the student is unable district in a companion document, A Guide to the Admission, to provide previous academic records, or misses an Review, and Dismissal Process. application deadline during a period of homelessness; Both documents may also be found at http://framework.esc18. • Credit-by-examination opportunities; net/display/Webforms/LandingPage.aspx. The following websites provide information to those who are • The award of partial credit (awarding credit seeking information and resources specifi c to students with proportionately when a student passes only one semester disabilities and their families: of a two-semester course); • Texas Project First, at http://www.texasprojectfi rst.org • Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular • Partners Resource Network, at http://www.partnerstx.org activities; and The designated person to contact regarding options for a child • Graduation requirements. experiencing learning diffi culties or a referral for evaluation If a student in grade 11 or 12 is homeless and transfers for special education is the Special Education Director at to another school district but does not meet the graduation (956) 580-5218. requirements of the receiving district, the student can request Students Who Receive Special Education Services with to receive a diploma from the previous district if he or she meets the criteria to graduate from the previous district. Other School-Aged Children in the Home Federal law also allows a homeless student to remain enrolled If a student is receiving special education services at a campus in what is called the “school of origin” or to enroll in a new outside his or her attendance zone, the parent or guardian 10 may request that any other student residing in the household be ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate grade level Regular school attendance is essential for a student to make for the transferring student is offered on that campus. However, the most of his or her education—to benefi t from teacher- the district is not required to provide transportation to the led and school activities, to build each day’s learning on the other children in the household. The parent or guardian should previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. Absences from speak with the principal of the school regarding transportation class may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of needs prior to requesting a transfer for any other children in the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent the home. [See policy FDB(LOCAL).] Parents of students with should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two learning diffi culties or who may need special education services state laws—one dealing with the required presence of school- may request an evaluation for special education at any time. aged children in school, e.g., compulsory attendance, the other For more information, see Special Programs on page 35 and with how a child’s attendance affects the award of a student’s contact the Special Education Director at (956) 580-5218. fi nal grade or course credit—are of special interest to students Students who speak a Primary Language Other than and parents. They are discussed below. English Compulsory Attendance A student may be eligible to receive specialized support if Age 19 and Older his or her primary language is not English, and the student A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 19th has diffi culty performing ordinary class work in English. If birthday is required to attend each school day until the end the student qualifi es for these extra services, the Language of the school year. If a student 19 or older has more than fi ve Profi ciency Assessment Committee (LPAC) will determine the unexcused absences in a semester, the district may revoke the types of services the student needs, including accommodations student’s enrollment. The student’s presence on school property or modifi cations related to classroom instruction, local thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered assessments, and state-mandated assessments. trespassing. [See policy FEA.] Students With Physical or Mental Impairments Between Ages 6 and 19 Protected under Section 504 State law requires that a student between the ages of 6 and 19 A child determined to have a physical or mental impairment attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction that substantially limits a major life activity, as defi ned by program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless law, and who does not otherwise qualify for special education the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally services, may qualify for protections under Section 504 of exempt. the Rehabilitation Act. Section 504 is a federal law designed State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities. instruction program when kindergarten, fi rst grade, or second When an evaluation is requested, a committee will be formed grade students are assigned to such a program. Parents will to determine if the child is in need of services and supports be notifi ed in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated under Section 504 to receive a free appropriate public reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading education (FAPE), as this is defi ned in federal law. instrument. The designated person to contact regarding a referral for A student will be required to attend any assigned accelerated evaluation applicable to Section 504 is the child’s campus 504 instruction program, which may occur before or after school Coordinator. or during the summer, if the student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or her grade level SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT and/or applicable subject area. INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS Prekindergarten and Kindergarten AND PARENTS Students enrolled in prekindergarten or kindergarten are Topics in this section of the handbook contain important required to attend school and are subject to the compulsory information on academics, school activities, and school attendance requirements as long as they remain enrolled. operations and requirements. Take a moment with your child Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance to become familiar with the various issues addressed in this All Grade Levels section. It is conveniently organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick-reference when you or your child has a State law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance question about a specifi c school-related issue. Where possible, requirements for several types of absences if the student makes the topics are also organized to alert you to the applicability up all work. These include the following activities and events: of each topic based on a student’s age or grade level. Should • Religious holy days. To be considered a religious holy you be unable to fi nd the information on a particular topic, day, the day should be one generally recognized by please contact your child’s teacher or principal. the student’s religious denomination as a holy day that 11 is required to be observed by all members of that absence, the district will send the student a letter as required denomination. Church retreats, camps, mission trips and by law explaining that the district may revoke the student’s individual religious rites (baptism, christenings, bar enrollment for the remainder of the school year if the student mitzvahs, etc.) are not considered holy days. has more than fi ve unexcused absences in a semester. As an • Required court appearances; alternative to revoking a student’s enrollment, the district may • Activities related to obtaining United States citizenship; implement a behavior improvement plan. • Documented health-care appointments for the student or a Between Ages 6 and 19 child of the student, including absences for recognized When a student between ages 6 and 19 incurs unexcused services for students diagnosed with autism spectrum absences for three or more days or parts of days within a four- disorders, if the student comes to school or returns to school week period, the school will send a notice to the student’s parent, on the same day as the appointment. A note from the as required by law, to remind the parent that it is the parent’s health-care provider must be submitted upon the student’s duty to monitor his or her child’s attendance and to require the arrival or return to campus; and student to come to school. The notice will also inform the parent • For students in the conservatorship (custody) of the state, that the district will initiate truancy prevention measures and • An activity required under a court-ordered service plan; or request a conference between school administrators and the • Any other court ordered activity, provided it is not parent. These measures will include a behavior improvement practicable to schedule the student’s participation in the plan, school-based community service, or referrals to either activity outside of school hours. in-school or out-of-school counseling or other social services. As listed in Section I at Children of Military Families, absences Any other measures considered appropriate by the district will of up to fi ve days will be excused for a student to visit with a also be initiated. parent, stepparent, or legal guardian who has been called to The truancy prevention facilitator for the district is Truancy duty for, is on leave from, or immediately returned from certain Offi cer. If you have questions about your student and the deployments. Please see page 9 for that section. effect of his or her absences from school, please contact the Secondary Grade Levels facilitator or any other campus administrator. In addition, the District shall excuse a student for up to two days A court of law may also impose penalties against a student’s during the student’s junior year and up to two days during the parent if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending student’s senior year to visit an accredited institution of higher school. A complaint against the parent may be fi led in court if education. A student shall be required to submit verifi cation the student is absent without excuse from school on ten or more of such visits in accordance with administrative regulations. days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same The student receives approval from the campus administrator, school year. follows the campus procedures to verify such a visit, and makes If a student age 12 through 18 incurs unexcused absences on up any work missed as authorized by the board under policy ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period FEA(LOCAL). in the same school year, the district, in most circumstances, will Absences of up to two days in a school year will also be refer the student to truancy court. [See policy FEA(LEGAL).] considered an exemption for a student serving as an early Boundaries and Attendance Zones voting clerk, provided the district’s board of trustees has Students must live in the boundaries of the Sharyland authorized this in policy FEA(LOCAL), the student notifi es his Independent School District in order to attend one of the district or her teachers, and the student receives approval from the schools. The Board of Trustees establishes attendance zones for principal prior to the absences. each school. Each student is required to attend the school in An absence of a student in grades 6–12 for the purpose of the attendance zone in which the student’s family resides. The sounding “Taps” at a military honors funeral for a deceased district may require evidence that the student lives within the veteran will also be excused by the district. district and may withdraw any student who ceases to be a Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance resident. The district does not enroll nonresident students. “Legal Guardianship” will be approved by the superintendent All Grade Levels and will not apply if the parent lives in a neighboring district School employees must investigate and report violations of the [FD(LOCAL)]. state compulsory attendance law. A student absent without permission from school; from any class; from required special Attendance for Credit or Final Grade (Kindergarten programs, such as additional special instruction, termed Through Grade 12) “accelerated instruction” by the state; or from required tutorials To receive credit or a fi nal grade in a class, a student in will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance kindergarten-grade 12 must attend at least 90 percent of law and subject to disciplinary action. the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least Age 19 and Older 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class After a student age 19 or older incurs a third unexcused is offered may receive credit or fi nal grade for the class if 12 he or she completes a plan, approved by the principal, that Saturday School (Grades 9-12) allows the student to fulfi ll the instructional requirements for In grades nine through twelve, a student has an opportunity the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court to make up absences by attending Saturday School. The class proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case meets for fi ve hours on selected Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to will also be required before the student receives credit or fi nal 1:00 p.m. One Saturday School is equivalent to one school grade for the class. day. Students attending Saturday school must be on time, be If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class dressed according to dress code, have I.D. card, and bring is offered or has not completed a plan approved by the school work to do. Students must remain productive and on principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance task. The teacher has the right to refuse admittance or to send review committee to determine whether there are extenuating out any nonconforming student. circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain In order to meet attendance requirements for students, credit or fi nal grade lost because of absences. [See policy at Saturday School is an option for the elementary and junior FEC.] high campuses which could also include after school and/or All absences, whether excused or unexcused, must be summer school. considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. In determining whether Documentation After An Absence (All Grade Levels) there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the When a student must be absent from school, the student— attendance committee will use the following guidelines: upon arrival or return to school—must bring a note, signed • If makeup work is completed, absences for the reasons by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. A listed above at Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will be considered extenuating circumstances for purposes will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older or is an of attendance for credit or the award of a fi nal grade. emancipated minor under state law. • A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate The campus will document in its attendance records for the absences only after he or she has enrolled in the district. student whether the absence is considered by the district to be • In reaching a decision about a student’s absences, the excused or unexcused. Please note that, unless the absence is committee will attempt to ensure that it is in the best for a statutorily allowed reason under compulsory attendance interest of the student. laws, the district is not required to excuse any absence, even if • The committee will consider the acceptability and the parent provides a note explaining the absence. authenticity of documented reasons for the student’s Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness absences. (All Grade Levels) • The committee will consider whether the absences were Within 3 days of returning to school, a student absent for for reasons over which the student or the student’s parent could exercise any control. more than three consecutive days because of a personal illness • The committee will consider the extent to which the student must bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying has completed all assignments, mastered the essential the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in absence from school. Otherwise, the student’s absence may be the course or subject. considered unexcused and, if so, would be considered to be in • The student or parent will be given an opportunity to violation of compulsory attendance laws. present any information to the committee about the Should the student develop a questionable pattern of absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit absences, the principal or attendance committee may require or fi nal grade. a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to or condition that caused the student’s absence from school in the board by following policy FNG(LOCAL). order to determine whether the absence or absences will be The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in excused or unexcused. [See policy FEC(LOCAL).] order to receive credit or fi nal grade will depend on whether Leaving Campus During the School Day the class is for a full semester or for a full year. • No student may leave the campus at any time for any Offi cial Attendance-Taking Time (All Grade Levels) reason without checking out. Once a student arrives on The district must submit attendance of its students to TEA campus, he may not leave, even prior to the beginning refl ecting attendance at a specifi c time each day. of the school day. Furthermore, a student may not leave Offi cial attendance is taken every day at 10:00 a.m., which is the campus and then return to catch a bus or other ride. during the second instructional hour as required by state rule. He is to remain on campus until he’s free to leave according A student absent for any portion of the day, including at the to school policy. A student found leaving campus or being offi cial attendance taking time, should follow the procedures off campus without proper permission is guilty of truancy. below to provide documentation of the absence. 13 Students leaving school for whatever reason must be Partial Day Attendance signed out by either a parent or guardian. In order for a student to be counted present he/she must attend • A student who becomes ill at school may check out to school until 12 noon (half-day for elementary) and half class go home only after the school nurse verifi es such a need period for secondary. and the parents have been informed. Students should never call parents to pick them up until they have been Unexcused Absences cleared through the principal’s offi ce. A student who receives an unexcused absence may not make • Upon the student’s return to school after checking out for up missed work and could be subject to disciplinary action for a doctor’s or dentist’s appointment, a student must bring truancy. Some examples of unexcused absences are: an excuse from his/her parent accompanied by a note on • staying home to study or to write a report; doctor’s stationery showing the exact time of the • going shopping, looking for a prom dress, or returning a appointment. Follow-up appointments should not be tuxedo; scheduled during the same time period. • going fi shing, hunting, or skiing, • A student can leave for lunch only when his/her parent • oversleeping or missing the bus, secures permission from the building principal. Limited • skipping, or leaving early for a trip/vacation permission will be granted on special occasions. The • failing to follow your campus’ admit to class procedure. parents must personally check the student out and in. If the reason is deemed unacceptable by the administrator, • Students may not be checked out of school after 3:00 p.m. the absence will be unexcused. However, if the administrator without permission from the campus principal or designee. determines that the unexcused absence is due to extenuating Driver License Attendance Verifi cation circumstances, the administrator may allow make-up work. Parents/students have 3 school days to submit documentation (Secondary Grade Levels Only) to change an unexcused absence to an excused absence. If For a student between the ages of 16 and 18 to obtain a documentation is not submitted during the allowable time, the driver license, the Texas Department of Public Safety must absence will remain the same. be provided written parental consent to access the student’s THE FACT THAT PARENTS KNOW AND APPROVE OF records for purposes of verifying 90 percent attendance for AN ABSENCE WILL NOT ALTER THE FACT THAT IT CAN BE credit for the semester. A verifi cation of enrollment (VOE) form UNEXCUSED OR CONSIDERED TRUANCY. may be obtained from the offi ce, which the student will need to submit to DPS upon application for a driver license. Excessive Absences State law outlines the number of absences a student is Excused Absences permitted in a course in order to be promoted or to receive To receive an excused absence, resulting before or after a credit. If a student is absent from class more than the allowable holiday, due to illness, or on a suspected class “skip day”, the number of times, he will lose credit in that course. A student student must have a doctor’s note or have a parent verify the and the student’s parent or guardian shall be given written illness in person. notice prior to and at such time when a student’s attendance Policy FEA(LEGAL) Excused Absences. The following are the in any class drops below 90 percent of the days the class is only reasons allowed for an excused absence: offered. However, Sharyland I.S.D. provides a means for • illness of a student or severe/critical illness of an immediate students to regain lost credit through attendance at Saturday family member. school, summer school and an appeal process. Students with excessive tardies and students with more than fi ve unexcused • death of a member of the immediate family. absences shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action • medical or dental attention, but may not be suspended at home or expelled for this reason. • religious holy day (must be pre-approved). Unexcused absences cannot be made up in Saturday school • absences which the principal judges as an emergency and are considered truancy. Policies FEC (LOCAL). beyond the control of the student or parent. • absences described in Policy FDD(LEGAL) COURT Transfer Absences A student’s attendance record will accompany his other records PROCEEDINGS OR HUMAN SERVICE ACTIVITIES when transferring from another school district. Absences Medical Excuses (partial day) incurred at SISD will be added to the number of absences A student who is temporarily absent, resulting from a visit to acquired at other school districts. Students transferring out a health care professional, licensed to practice in the United of the district who have exceeded the number of allowable States, will be counted present if that student commences classes absences will not receive credit. They may petition for credit or returns to school on the same day as the appointment. The by mail or in person. Transcripts sent to other school districts will student will be allowed time to make up missed work according to refl ect no credit because of excessive absences. school policy. Upon returning to school, the student should present Pre-Arranged Absence an excuse on doctor’s stationery to obtain this type of excuse. The following are the requirements for requesting a 14 pre-arranged absence: district’s website at www.sharylandisd.org. Hard copies of • The student must be absent with the parent’s knowledge any reports are available upon request to the district’s and consent. administration offi ce. • Arrangements have to be made with the principal prior TEA also maintains additional accountability to the absence. and accreditation information at http://www. • This type of absence is one that does not meet the criteria texasschoolaccountabilitydashboard.org and http://www.tea. of the legally excused absence, but one the principal may texas.gov. believe to be acceptable. Some of the absences may BULLYING (All Grade Levels) qualify for extracurricular status. Bullying occurs when a student or group of students engages The method for requesting a pre-arranged absence includes in written or verbal expressions, expression through electronic the following: methods, or physical conduct against another student on school 1. Submit a written request 5 days in advance of property, at a school-sponsored or -related activity, or in a the anticipated absence to the principal for evaluation district operated vehicle, and the behavior results in harm to the to determine whether the time and reason is acceptable student or the student’s property, places a student in reasonable or not; fear of physical harm or of damage to the student’s property, 2. If the absence is acceptable, then the student is to or is so severe, persistent, and pervasive that it creates an take a note to each teacher and obtain the intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment. assignments for the particular time he will be absent. This conduct is considered bullying if it exploits an imbalance Note: Exams will not be issued prior to two days before of power between the student perpetrator(s) and the student any school holiday or the last day of the semester for any victim and if it interferes with a student’s education or grade level; substantially disrupts the operation of the school. 3. For such a request to be considered, the student must Bullying could include hazing, threats, taunting, teasing, assault, have satisfactory scholastic, attendance, and behavior demands for money, destruction of property, theft of valued records. possessions, name-calling, rumor-spreading, or ostracism. In 4. For those students in 11th & 12th grade, if such an absence is some cases, bullying can occur through electronic methods, for a college visitation cleared by a campus administrator, called “cyberbullying.” refer to Policy FEA (LOCAL). If a student believes that he or she has experienced Note: Pre-arranged absences will be limited to 2 excused bullying, it is important for the student or parent to notify absences for fall and spring. Students must complete make a teacher, counselor, principal, or another district employee up work in accordance with Grading Guidelines at www. as soon as possible to obtain assistance and intervention. sharylandisd.org under Curriculum Department/Guidelines and The administration will investigate any allegations of Policies/Sharyland Grading Guidelines for Grades PK-12. bullying and will take appropriate disciplinary action if an investigation indicates bullying or other related misconduct. ACCOUNTABILITY UNDER STATE AND FEDERAL LAW If the results of an investigation indicate that bullying has (All Grade Levels) occurred, the administration will take appropriate disciplinary Sharyland ISD and each of its campuses are held to certain action. Disciplinary or other action may be taken even if the standards of accountability under state and federal law. conduct did not rise to the level of bullying. The district will also A key component of the accountability requirements is contact the parents of the victim and of the student who was the dissemination and publication of certain reports and found to have engaged in the bullying. Available counseling information, which include: options will be provided to these individuals, as well as to any • The Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR) for the students who have been identifi ed as witnesses to the bullying. district, compiled by TEA, the state agency that oversees Any retaliation against a student who reports an incident of public education, based on academic factors and ratings; bullying is prohibited. • A School Report Card (SRC) for each campus in the district Upon the recommendation of the administration, the board compiled by TEA based on academic factors and ratings; may, in response to an identifi ed case of bullying, decide • The district’s fi nancial management report, which will to transfer a student found to have engaged in bullying to include the fi nancial accountability rating assigned to the another classroom at the campus. In consultation with the district by TEA; student’s parent, the student may also be transferred to • The performance ratings of the district’s evaluation of another campus in the district. The parent of a student who community and student engagement using the indicators has been determined by the district to be a victim of bullying required by law; and may request that his or her child be transferred to another • Information compiled by TEA for the submission of a classroom or campus within the district. [Also, see Safety federal report card that is required by federal law. Transfers/Assignmentson page 9.] • Information about all of these can be found on the A copy of the district’s policy is available in the principal’s 15 offi ce, superintendent’s offi ce, and on the district’s Web site, sexually abused. Sexual abuse in the Texas Family Code is and is included at the end of this Handbook in the form of defi ned as any sexual conduct harmful to a child’s mental, an appendix. Procedures related to reporting allegations of emotional, or physical welfare as well as a failure to make bullying may also be found on the district’s Web site. a reasonable effort to prevent sexual conduct with a child. A student or parent who is dissatisfi ed with the outcome of an A person who compels or encourages a child to engage in investigation may appeal through policy FNG(LOCAL). sexual conduct commits abuse. It is illegal to make or possess [Also see Safety Transfers/Assignments on page 9 Dating child pornography or to display such material to a child. Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on Anyone who suspects that a child has been or may be abused page 19, Safety Transfers/Assignments on page 9, Hazing or neglected has a legal responsibility, under state law, for on page 26, policy FFI, and the district improvement plan, a reporting the suspected abuse or neglect to law enforcement copy of which can be viewed in the campus offi ce.] or to Child Protective Services (CPS). Sharyland Choose to Care Program Possible physical warning signs of sexual abuse could be diffi culty sitting or walking, pain in the genital areas, and Sharyland ISD participates in the Choose To Care program, claims of stomachaches and headaches. Behavioral indicators an innovative Web-based “tip-line” program that allows may include verbal references or pretend games of sexual students, parents, employees, and other members of the school activity between adults and children, fear of being alone with community to go on-line and provide information about student adults of a particular gender, or sexually suggestive behavior. safety issues, anonymously, if they prefer. Emotional warning signs to be aware of include withdrawal, CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) depression, sleeping and eating disorders, and problems in PROGRAMS (Secondary Grade Levels Only) school. The district offers career and technical education programs. A child who has experienced sexual abuse should be For further information, please contact the Career and encouraged to seek out a trusted adult. Be aware as a parent Technology Director at 956-580-5200. or other trusted adult that disclosures of sexual abuse may These programs will be offered without regard to race, color, be more indirect than disclosures of physical abuse, and it is national origin, sex, or disability. Sharyland ISD will take important to be calm and comforting if your child, or another steps to ensure that lack of English language skills will not be child, confi des in you. Reassure the child that he or she did the a barrier to admission and participation in all educational right thing by telling you. and CTE programs. [Also see Nondiscrimination Statement As a parent, if your child is a victim of sexual abuse, the school on page 31 programs the name and contact information for counselor or principal will provide information regarding the Title IX coordinator and Section 504 coordinator, who will counseling options for you and your child available in your address certain allegations of discrimination.] area. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS) also manages early intervention counseling programs. CELEBRATIONS (All Grade Levels) To fi nd out what services may be available in your county, Although a parent or grandparent is not prohibited from see http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Prevention_and_Early_Intervention/ providing food for a school-designated function or for children Programs_Available_In_Your_County/default.asp. in the child’s or grandchild’s classroom for his or her birthday, The following websites might help you become more aware please be aware that children in the school may have severe of child sexual abuse: allergies to certain food products. Therefore, it is imperative to https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/whatiscan.pdf discuss this with the child’s teacher prior to bringing any food http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/child-abuse.html in this circumstance. Occasionally, the school or a class may https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/what-we-can-do-about- host certain functions or celebrations tied to the curriculum that child-abuse-1 will involve food. The school or teacher will notify students and https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/what-we-can-do-about- parents of any known food allergies when soliciting potential child-abuse-2 volunteers for bringing food products. Celebrations will only be Reports of abuse or neglect may be made to: allowed after 2:30 p.m. and all food items served to students The Child Protective Services (CPS) division of the must be store purchased. The nutritional facts and a list of Texas Department of Family and Protective Services ingredients must remain on the package label. (1-800-252-5400 or on the web at http://www.txabusehotline.org). CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND OTHER MALTREATMENT CLASS RANK / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT OF CHILDREN (All Grade Levels) [Please refer to Board Policy EIC(LOCAL).] The district has established a plan for addressing child sexual CLASS SCHEDULES (Secondary Grade Levels Only) abuse, which may be accessed at www.sharylandisd.org. All students are expected to attend school for the entire As a parent, it is important for you to be aware of warning school day and maintain a class/course schedule to fulfi ll each signs that could indicate a child may have been or is being period of the day. Exceptions may be made occasionally by 16 the campus principal for students in grades 9–12 who meet or off campus; specifi c criteria and receive parental consent to enroll in less • Enrollment in courses taught at the following institutions in than a full-day’s schedule. the district: Sharyland ISD Advanced Academic Academy, STC and UTPA; and COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS (Secondary • Certain CTE courses. Grade Levels Only) All of these methods have eligibility requirements and must For two school years following his or her graduation, a district be approved prior to enrollment in the course. Please see student who graduates in the top ten percent and, in some the school counselor for more information. Depending on the cases, the top 25 percent, of his or her class is eligible for student’s grade level and the course, a state-mandated end- automatic admission into four-year public universities and of-course assessment may be required for graduation. colleges in Texas if the student: It is important to keep in mind that not all colleges and • Completes the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement universities accept credit earned in all dual credit or AP courses Program*; or taken in high school for college credit. Students and parents • Satisfi es the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks or earns should check with the prospective college or university to at least a 1500 out of 2400 on the SAT. determine if a particular course will count toward the student’s *Beginning with ninth graders in the 2014–15 school year, desired degree plan. to be eligible for automatic admission to a Texas four-year college or university, a student must be on track to graduate COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS (All Grade Levels) with the distinguished level of achievement under the foundation Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be graduation program. This means that a student must graduate addressed informally by a phone call or a conference with the with at least one endorsement and must have taken Algebra II teacher, principal or designee. For those complaints and concerns as one of the four required math courses. that cannot be handled so easily, the board has adopted In addition, the student must submit a completed application a standard complaint policy at FNG(LOCAL) in the district’s for admission in accordance with the deadline established by policy manual. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the the college or university. The student is ultimately responsible principal’s or superintendent’s offi ce or on the district’s website at for ensuring that he or she meets the admission requirements www.sharylandisd.org. of the university or college to which the student submits an Should a parent or student feel a need to fi le a formal application. complaint, the parent or student should fi le a district complaint The University of Texas at Austin may limit the number form within the timelines established in policy FNG(LOCAL). of students automatically admitted to 75 percent of the In general, the student or parent should submit the written University’s enrollment capacity for incoming resident freshmen. complaint form to the campus principal. If the concern is not For students who are eligible to enroll in the University of Texas resolved, a request for a conference should be sent to the at Austin during the summer or fall 2017 term, the University superintendent. If still unresolved, the district provides for will be admitting the top seven percent of the high school’s the complaint to be presented to the board of trustees. [See graduating class who meet the above requirements. Additional Illustration on page 4] applicants will be considered by the University through a CONDUCT (All Grade Levels) holistic review process. Should a college or university adopt an admissions policy that Applicability of School Rules automatically accepts the top 25 percent of a graduating As required by law, the board has adopted a Student Code of class, the provisions above will also apply to a student ranked Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defi nes standards in the top 25 percent of his or her class. of acceptable behavior—both on and off campus as well as Students and parents should contact the school counselor on district vehicles—and consequences for violation of these or Career Center for further information about automatic standards. The district has disciplinary authority over a student admissions, the application process, and deadlines. in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Students and [Refer to board policy EIC (LOCAL)]. parents should be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES rules. During any periods of instruction during the summer (Secondary Grade Levels Only) months, the Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct in Students in grades 9–12 have opportunities to earn college place for the year immediately preceding the summer period credit through the following methods: shall apply, unless the district amends either or both documents • Certain courses taught at the high school campus, for the purposes of summer instruction. which may include courses termed dual credit or Campus Behavior Coordinator Advanced Placement (AP); • Enrollment in courses taught in conjunction and in Education Code 37.0012, .002(a), .009(a), (f) partnership with STC and UTPA; which may be offered on By law, each campus has a campus behavior coordinator 17 to apply discipline management techniques and administer High School Grade Levels consequences for certain student misconduct, as well as provide High School students and their parents are encouraged to talk a point of contact for student misconduct. The campus behavior with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn more coordinator at each district campus is the Assistant Principal. about course offerings, graduation requirements, and early Disruptions of School Operations graduation procedures. Each year, high school students will Disruptions of school operations are not tolerated and may be provided information on anticipated course offerings for constitute a misdemeanor offense. As identifi ed by law, the next school year and other information that will help them disruptions include the following: make the most of academic and CTE opportunities, as well as • Interference with the movement of people at an exit, information on the importance of postsecondary education. entrance, or hallway of a district building without The school counselor can also provide information about authorization from an administrator. entrance exams and application deadlines, as well as • Interference with an authorized activity by seizing control information about automatic admission, fi nancial aid, housing, of all or part of a building. and scholarships as these relate to state colleges and • Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent universities. The school counselor can also provide information participation in an authorized assembly. about workforce opportunities after graduation or technical • Use of force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during and trade school opportunities, including opportunities to earn an assembly. industry-recognized certifi cates and licenses. • Interference with the movement of people at an exit or Personal Counseling (All Grade Levels) an entrance to district property. The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide • Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, people from entering or leaving district property without family, emotional or mental health issues, or substance abuse. authorization from an administrator. A student who wishes to meet with the school counselor should • Disruption of classes or other school activities while on speak with any district “professional” employee. As a parent, district property or on public property that is within 500 if you are concerned about your child’s mental or emotional feet of district property. Class disruption includes making health, please speak with the school counselor for a list of loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to resources that may be of assistance. prevent a student from attending, a required class or [Also see Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention on activity; and entering a classroom without authorization page 37 and Suicide Awareness on page 37.] and disrupting the activity with loud or profane language or any misconduct. COURSE CREDIT (Secondary Grade Levels Only) • Interference with the transportation of students in vehicles A student in grades 9–12, or in a lower grade when a student owned or operated by the district. is enrolled in a high school credit-bearing course, will earn credit for a course only if the fi nal grade is 70 or above. For Social Events a two-semester (1 credit) course, the student’s grades from School rules apply to all school social events. Guests attending both semesters will be averaged and credit will be awarded these events are expected to observe the same rules as if the combined average is 70 or above. Should the student’s students, and a student inviting a guest will share responsibility combined average be less than 70, the student will be required for the conduct of his or her guest. to retake the semester in which he or she failed. A student attending a social event will be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the event; anyone leaving CREDIT BY EXAMINATION—If a Student Has Taken before the offi cial end of the event will not be readmitted. the Course/Subject (All Grade Levels) Please contact the campus principal if you are interested in A student who has previously taken a course or subject— serving as a chaperone for any school social events. but did not receive credit or a fi nal grade for it—may, in COUNSELING circumstances determined by the principal or attendance Academic Counseling committee, be permitted to earn credit by passing an exam approved by the district’s board of trustees on the essential Elementary and Middle/Junior High School Grade Levels knowledge and skills defi ned for that course or subject. Prior The school counselor is available to students and parents to instruction may include, for example, incomplete coursework talk about the importance of postsecondary education and due to a failed course or excessive absences, homeschooling, how best to plan for postsecondary education, including or coursework by a student transferring from a nonaccredited appropriate courses to consider and fi nancial aid availability school. The opportunity to take an examination to earn credit and requirements. for a course or to be awarded a fi nal grade in a subject after In either grade 7 or 8, each student will receive instruction the student has had prior instruction is sometimes referred to related to how the student can best prepare for high school, as “credit recovery.” college, and a career. 18 The school counselor or principal would determine if the student Students in Grades 6–12 could take an exam for this purpose. If approval is granted, A student in grade 6 or above will earn course credit with a the student must score at least 70 on the exam to receive credit passing score of at least 80 on the exam, a scaled score of 60 for the course or subject. or higher on an exam administered through the CLEP, or a score The attendance review committee may also offer a student of 3 or higher on an AP exam, as applicable. A student may with excessive absences an opportunity to earn credit for a take an exam to earn high school course credit no more than course by passing an exam. twice. If a student fails to achieve the designated score on the [For further information, see the counselor and policy applicable exam before the beginning of the school year in EHDB(LEGAL/LOCAL).] which the student would need to enroll in the course according CREDIT BY EXAM FOR ADVANCEMENT/ACCELERATION— to the school’s high school course sequence, the student must complete the course. If a Student Has Not Taken the Course/Subject A student will be permitted to take an exam to earn credit DATING VIOLENCE, DISCRIMINATION, for an academic course or subject area for which the student HARASSMENT, AND RETALIATION (All Grade Levels) has had no prior instruction, i.e., for advancement, or to The district believes that all students learn best in an environment accelerate to the next grade level. The exams offered by free from dating violence, discrimination, harassment, and the district are approved by the district’s board of trustees, retaliation and that their welfare is best served when they and state law requires the use of certain exams, such as are free from this prohibited conduct while attending school. College Board Advanced Placement (AP) and College Level Students are expected to treat other students and district Examination Program (CLEP) tests, when applicable. The dates employees with courtesy and respect, to avoid behaviors on which exams are scheduled during the 2016–17 school known to be offensive, and to stop those behaviors when year will be published in appropriate district publications and asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat on the district’s website. The only exceptions to the published students with courtesy and respect. dates will be for any exams administered by another entity The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit besides the district or if a request is made outside of these and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive time frames by a student experiencing homelessness or by a behaviors that are based on a person’s race, color, religion, student involved in the foster care system. When another entity gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited administers an exam, a student and the district must comply by law. [See policy FFH.] with the testing schedule of the other entity. During each testing window provided by the district, a student may attempt a Dating Violence specifi c exam only once. Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past dating If a student plans to take an exam, parent must register with the relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse school counselor no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control the other person in the testing date. [For further information, see policy EHDC] relationship. This type of conduct is considered harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it Kindergarten Acceleration affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefi t from A student in kindergarten will be eligible to accelerate to the an educational program or activity; creates an intimidating, next grade level. Criteria for acceleration may include: threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; 1. Scores on readiness tests or achievement tests that may be or substantially interferes with the student’s academic administered by appropriate District personnel. performance. • ITBS — Level 7 (90 percent of all core areas scored as a Examples of dating violence against a student may include, but beginning fi rst grader) are not limited to, physical or sexual assaults; name-calling; • Aprenda — Primario 1 (90 percent of all core areas put-downs; threats to hurt the student; the student’s family scored as a beginning fi rst grader) members, or members of the student’s household; destroying 2. Chronological age and observed social and emotional property belonging to the student; threats to commit suicide or development of the student to be measured through an homicide if the student ends the relationship; threats to harm a interview. student’s current dating partner; attempts to isolate the student Students in Grades 1–5 from friends and family; stalking; or encouraging others to A student in elementary school will be eligible to accelerate engage in these behaviors. to the next grade level if the student scores at least 80 on Discrimination each exam in the subject areas of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, a district administrator recommends Discrimination is defi ned as any conduct directed at a student that the student be accelerated, and the student’s parent gives on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, written approval of the grade advancement. disability, or any other basis prohibited by law, that negatively affects the student.
19 Harassment punishments, or unwarranted grade reductions. Unlawful Harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, retaliation does not include petty slights or annoyances. or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate Reporting Procedures in or benefi t from an educational program or activity; creates Any student who believes that he or she has experienced an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational dating violence, discrimination, harassment, o r retaliation environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s should immediately report the problem to a teacher, school academic performance. counselor, principal, or other district employee. The report Examples of harassment may include, but are not limited to, may be made by the student’s parent. See policy FFH(LOCAL) offensive or derogatory language directed at a person’s and (EXHIBIT) for other appropriate district offi cials to whom religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for to make a report. accommodation; threatening, intimidating, or humiliating Upon receiving a report of prohibited conduct as defi ned by conduct; offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical policy FFH, the district will determine whether the allegations, if aggression or assault; graffi ti or printed material promoting proven, would constitute prohibited conduct as defi ned by that racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or other kinds of policy. If not, the district will refer to policy FFI to determine if aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. the allegations, if proven, would constitute bullying, as defi ned In addition to dating violence as described above, two other by law and that policy. If the alleged prohibited conduct, if types of prohibited harassment are described below. proven, would constitute prohibited conduct and would also Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Harassment be considered bullying as defi ned by law and policy FFI, an Sexual harassment and gender-based harassment of a student investigation of bullying will also be conducted. by an employee, volunteer, or another student are prohibited. The district will promptly notify the parents of any student Examples of sexual harassment may include, but not be limited alleged to have experienced prohibited conduct involving to, touching private body parts or coercing physical contact an adult associated with the district. In the event alleged that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations prohibited conduct involves another student, the district will of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, notify the parents of the student alleged to have experienced communications, or contact. the prohibited conduct when the allegations, if proven, would Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer constitute a violation as defi ned by policy FFH. does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not Investigation of Report reasonably construed as sexual in nature, such as comforting a To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of child with a hug or taking the child’s hand. However, romantic the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary and other inappropriate social relationships, as well as all to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. sexual relationships, between students and district employees Allegations of prohibited conduct, which includes dating are prohibited, even if consensual. violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, will be Gender-based harassment includes harassment based on a promptly investigated. student’s gender, expression by the student of stereotypical If a law enforcement or other regulatory agency notifi es the characteristics associated with the student’s gender, or the district that it is investigating the matter and requests that student’s failure to conform to stereotypical behavior related the district delay its investigation, the district will resume the to gender. Examples of gender-based harassment directed investigation at the conclusion of the agency’s investigation. against a student, regardless of the student’s or the harasser’s During the course of an investigation and when appropriate, actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, may the district will take interim action to address the alleged include, but not be limited to, offensive jokes, name-calling, prohibited conduct. slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; threatening or If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited conduct intimidating conduct; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such occurred, appropriate disciplinary action, and in some cases, as theft or damage to property. corrective action will be taken to address the conduct. The Retaliation district may take disciplinary and corrective action even if the Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report conduct that is the subject of the complaint was not unlawful. of discrimination or harassment, including dating violence, is All involved parties will be notifi ed of the outcome of the prohibited. Retaliation against a person who is participating in district investigation within the parameters and limits allowed an investigation of alleged discrimination or harassment is also under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). prohibited. A person who makes a false claim or offers false A student or parent who is dissatisfi ed with the outcome of statements or refuses to cooperate with a district investigation, the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy however, may be subject to appropriate discipline. FNG(LOCAL). Examples of retaliation may include threats, rumor spreading, DISCRIMINATION ostracism, assault, destruction of property, unjustifi ed [See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and 20 Retaliation on page 19.] of a community group meeting held after school hours in DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE, PUBLISHED accordance with policy GKD(LOCAL) or a noncurriculum related student group meeting held in accordance with MATERIALS, OR OTHER DOCUMENTS (All Grade Levels) FNAB(LOCAL). School Materials • Distribution for electioneering purposes during the time a Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or school facility is being used as a polling place, in distributed, with the prior approval of the principal, sponsor, accordance with state law. or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, All nonschool materials distributed under these circumstances fl yers, etc. must be removed from district property immediately following All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, the event at which the materials are distributed. sponsor, and the principal. DRESS AND GROOMING (All Grade Levels) Nonschool Materials The district’s dress code is established to teach grooming and From Students hygiene, prevent disruption, and minimize safety hazards. Students must obtain prior approval from the principal before Students and parents may determine a student’s personal selling, posting, circulating, or distributing more than ten dress and grooming standards, provided that they comply with copies of written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, the Student Code of Conduct. pictures, fi lms, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials that If the principal determines that a student’s grooming or clothing were not developed under the oversight of the school. To be violates the school’s dress code, the student will be given an considered, any nonschool material must include the name of opportunity to correct the problem at school. If not corrected, the sponsoring person or organization. The decision regarding the student will be assigned to in-school suspension for the approval will be made in two school days. remainder of the day, until the problem is corrected, or until a Each principal will designate a location for approved nonschool parent or designee brings an acceptable change of clothing materials to be placed for voluntary viewing by students. [See to the school. Repeated offenses may result in more serious policy at FNAA.] disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of A student may appeal a decision in accordance with policy Conduct. FNG(LOCAL). Any student who sells, posts, circulates, or distributes nonschool material without prior approval will be ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student RESOURCES (All Grade Levels) Code of Conduct. Materials displayed without approval will Possession and Use of Personal Telecommunications be removed. Devices, Including Mobile Telephones From Others For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, personal mobile telephones; however, these devices must fi lms, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials, not sponsored by remain turned off during the instructional day, including during the district or by a district-affi liated school-support organization, all testing, unless they are being used for approved instructional will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any district purposes. A student must have approval to possess other premises by any district employee or by persons or groups not telecommunications devices such as netbooks, laptops, tablets, associated with the district, except as permitted by policies at or other portable computers. GKDA. To be considered for distribution, any nonschool material The use of mobile telephones or any device capable of must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, capturing images is strictly prohibited in locker rooms or include the name of the sponsoring person or organization, and restroom areas while at school or at a school-related or school be submitted to the principal for prior review. The principal will sponsored event. approve or reject the materials within two school days of the If a student uses a telecommunications device without authorization time the materials are received. The requestor may appeal a during the school day, the device will be confi scated. The parent rejection in accordance with the appropriate district complaint may pick up the confi scated telecommunications device from the policy. [See policies at DGBA or GF.] principal’s offi ce for a fee of $15. The principal has designated the teacher’s workroom/lounge Confi scated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved as the location for approved nonschool materials to be placed by the student’s parents will be disposed of after the notice for voluntary viewing or collection. required by law. [See policy FNCE.] Prior review will not be required for: In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a student’s • Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees personal telecommunications device may be searched by of a school-sponsored meeting intended for adults and authorized personnel. [See Searches on page 35 and policy FNF.] held after school hours. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student • Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees Code of Conduct. The district is not responsible for damaged, 21 lost, or stolen telecommunications devices and will not conduct another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition applies to searches to recover the item. conduct off school property, whether the equipment used to Possession and Use of Other Personal Electronic send such messages is district-owned or personally owned, Devices if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational Except as described below, students are not permitted to environment. possess or use personal electronic devices such as MP3 Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal images games, e-readers, or other electronic devices at school, unless or other content, commonly referred to as “sexting,” will be prior permission has been obtained. Without such permission, disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct, may be teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s required to complete an educational program related to the offi ce. The principal will determine whether to return items to dangers of this type of behavior, and, in certain circumstances, students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up may be reported to law enforcement. Because engaging in this the items. type of behavior can lead to bullying or harassment, as well as In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a student’s possibly impede future endeavors of a student, we encourage personal electronic device may be searched by authorized you to review with your child http://beforeyoutext.com, a personnel. [See Searches on page 35 and policy FNF.] state-developed program that addresses the consequences of Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student engaging in inappropriate behavior using technology. Code of Conduct. The district is not responsible for any END-OF-COURSE (EOC) ASSESSMENTS damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device and will not conduct See Graduation on page 24 and Standardized Testing on page 36. searches to recover the item. ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS (All Grade Levels) Instructional Use of Personal Telecommunications and A student who is an English language learner is entitled to Other Electronic Devices receive specialized services from the district. To determine In some cases, students may fi nd it benefi cial or might be whether the student qualifi es for services, a Language encouraged to use personal telecommunications or other Profi ciency Assessment Committee (LPAC) will be formed, personal electronic devices for instructional purposes while on which will consist of both district personnel and at least one campus. Students must obtain prior approval before using parent representative. The student’s parent must consent to any personal telecommunications or other personal electronic services recommended by the LPAC for an English language devices for instructional use. Students must also sign a user learner. However, pending the receipt of parental consent or agreement that contains applicable rules for use (separate denial of services, an eligible student will receive the services from this handbook). (Separate from this handbook - BYOD to which the student is entitled and eligible. Guidelines: http://www.sharylandisd.org/students/b_y_o_d/ In order to determine a student’s level of profi ciency in English, b_y_o_d_policy/.) When students are not using the devices for the LPAC will use information from a variety of assessments. approved instructional purposes, all devices must be turned off If the student qualifi es for services, and once a level of during the instructional day. Violations of the user agreement profi ciency has been established, the LPAC will then designate may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary instructional accommodations or additional special programs action. that the student will require to eventually become profi cient at grade level work in English. Acceptable Use of District Technology Resources Ongoing assessments will be conducted to determine a To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, student’s continued eligibility for the program. the district has made an investment in the use of district owned The LPAC will also determine whether certain accommodations technology resources for instructional purposes; specifi c are necessary for any state-mandated assessments. The resources may be issued individually to students. Use of these STAAR L, as mentioned at Standardized Testing on page technological resources, which include the district’s network 36, may be administered to an English language learner, or, systems and use of district equipment, is restricted to approved for a student up to grade 5, a Spanish version of STAAR. In purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a limited circumstances, a student’s LPAC may exempt the student user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of from an otherwise required state-mandated assessment or these district resources. Violations of the user agreement may may waive certain graduation requirements related to the result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action. English I end-of-course (EOC) assessment. The Texas English Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Language Profi ciency Assessment System (TELPAS) will also Resources be administered to English language learners who qualify for services. Students are prohibited from sending, posting, accessing, or If a student is considered an English language learner and displaying electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, receives special education services because of a qualifying sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to 22 disability, the student’s ARD committee will make instructional UIL activities or other activities approved by the board, and assessment decisions in conjunction with the LPAC. are subject to these restrictions. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND • An absence for participation in an activity that has not been approved will receive an unexcused absence. ORGANIZATIONS (All Grade Levels) Participation in school-sponsored activities is an excellent way Standards of Behavior for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups such as the and build strong friendships with other students; participation, band, choir, and drill and athletic teams may establish standards however, is a privilege, not a right. of behavior—including consequences for misbehavior—that Participation in some of these activities may result in events that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is occur off-campus. When the district arranges transportation also a violation of school rules, the consequences specifi ed by for these events, students are required to use the transportation the Student Code of Conduct or by board policy will apply in provided by the district to and from the events. Exceptions to addition to any consequences specifi ed by the organization’s this may only be made with the approval of the activity’s coach standards of behavior. or sponsor. [Also see Transportation on page 38] Offi ces and Elections Eligibility for initial and continuing participation in many of Certain clubs, organizations, and performing groups will hold these activities is governed by state law and the rules of elections for student offi cers. the University Interscholastic League (UIL)—a statewide association overseeing interdistrict competition. If a student is FEES (All Grade Levels) involved in an academic, athletic, or music activity governed Materials that are part of the basic educational program are by UIL, the student and parent are expected to know and provided with state and local funds at no charge to a student. follow all rules of the UIL organization. Students involved A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own in UIL athletic activities and their parents can access the UIL pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required Parent Information Manual at https://www.uiltexas.org/ to pay certain other fees or deposits, including: athletics/manuals; a hard copy can be provided by the coach • Costs for materials for a class project that the student will or sponsor of the activity on request. To report a complaint keep. of alleged noncompliance with required safety training or an • Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student alleged violation of safety rules required by law and the UIL, organizations and admission fees to extracurricular please contact the curriculum division of the TEA at (512) 463- activities. 9581 or [email protected]. [See http://www.uiltexas. • Security deposits. org for additional information on all UIL-governed activities.] • Personal physical education and athletic equipment and Student safety in extracurricular activities is a priority of apparel. the district. The equipment used in football is no exception. • Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, As a parent, you are entitled to review the district’s records yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc. regarding the age of each football helmet used by the campus, • Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance. including when a helmet has been reconditioned. • Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when In addition, the following provisions apply to all extracurricular uniforms are provided by the district. activities: • Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that • A student who receives at the end of a grading period becomes the property of the student. a grade below 70 in any academic class-other than an • Parking fees and student identifi cation cards. Advanced Placement or course; or an honors or dual credit • Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books. course in English language arts, mathematics, science, social • Fees for driver training courses, if offered. studies, economics, or language other than English—may not • Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require participate in extracurricular activities for at least three use of facilities not available on district premises. school weeks. • Summer school for courses that are offered tuition-free • A student who receives special education services and who during the regular school year. fails to meet the standards in the individualized education • A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student program (IEP) may not participate for at least three school who lives within two miles of the school. [See Buses weeks. and Other School Vehicles on page 38.] • An ineligible student may practice or rehearse. • A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an • A student is allowed in a school year up to 10 absences educational program outside of regular school hours not related to post-district competition, a maximum of 5 for a student who has lost credit because of absences absences for post-district competition prior to state, and a and whose parent chooses the program in order for the maximum of 2 absences for state competition. All student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement. extracurricular activities and public performances, whether The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a district-provided request form. 23 • In some cases, a fee for a course taken through the Texas Requirements for a Diploma Beginning with the 2014– Virtual School Network (TxVSN). 15 School Year Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student Beginning with students who entered grade 9 in the 2014–15 and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver school year, as well as any currently enrolled high school student may be made to the Federal Programs Offi ce. [For further who decides to graduate under the new foundation graduation information, see policy at FP.] program, a student must meet the following requirements to FUNDRAISING (All Grade Levels) receive a high school diploma from the district: Student groups or classes and/or parent groups may be • Complete the required number of credits established permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school by the state and any additional credits required by the purposes. Application for permission must be made to the district; principal. [For further information, see policies FJ and GE.] • Complete any locally required courses in addition to the GANG-FREE ZONES (All Grade Levels) courses mandated by the state; Certain criminal offenses, including those involving organized • Achieve passing scores on certain end-of-course (EOC) criminal activity such as gang-related crimes, will be enhanced assessments or approved substitute assessments, unless to the next highest category of offense if they are committed in a specifi cally waived as permitted by state law; and gang-free zone. For purposes of the district, a gang-free zone • Demonstrate profi ciency, as determined by the district, includes a school bus and a location in, on, or within 1,000 feet of in the specifi c communication skills required by the State any district-owned or leased property or campus playground. Board of Education. GENDER-BASED HARASSMENT Testing Requirements for Graduation [See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Students are required, with limited exceptions and regardless Retaliation on page 19.] of graduation program, to perform satisfactorily on the following EOC assessments: English I, English II, Algebra I, GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION Biology, and United States History. A student who has not (Grades 9–12 Only) achieved suffi cient scores on the EOC assessments to graduate After the ninth grade, students are classifi ed according to the will have opportunities to retake the assessments. State law and number of years in high school and credits earned toward state rules also provide for certain scores on norm-referenced graduation. national standardized assessments or on the state-developed Credits Earned Classifi cation assessment used for entrance into Texas public universities to substitute for the requirement to meet satisfactory performance 6 Grade 10 (Sophomore) on an applicable EOC assessment should a student choose this 12 Grade 11 (Junior) option. See the school counselor for more information on the 18 Grade 12 (Senior) state testing requirements for graduation. GRADING GUIDELINES (All Grade Levels) If a student fails to perform satisfactorily on an EOC assessment, [See Grading Guidelines at www.sharylandisd.org under the district will provide remediation to the student in the content Curriculum Department/Guidelines and Policies/Sharyland area for which the performance standard was not met. This may require participation of the student before or after normal Grading Guidelines for Grades PK-12] school hours or at times of the year outside normal school GRADUATION (Secondary Grade Levels Only) operations. Requirements for a Diploma for a Student Enrolled in High In limited circumstances, a student who fails to demonstrate School Prior to the 2014–15 School Year profi ciency on two or fewer of the required assessments To receive a high school diploma from the district, a student who may still be eligible to graduate if an individual graduation was enrolled in high school prior to the 2014–15 school year must committee, formed in accordance with state law, unanimously successfully: determines that the student is eligible to graduate. • Complete the required number of credits established by the Also see Standardized Testing on page 36 for more state and any additional credits required by the district; information. • Complete any locally required courses in addition to the Minimum, Recommended, and Advanced/ courses mandated by the state; and Distinguished Achievement Graduation Programs • Achieve passing scores on certain end-of-course (EOC) For students who were enrolled in high school prior to the 2014– assessments or approved substitute assessments, unless 15 school year, the district offers the graduation programs specifi cally waived as permitted by state law. listed in this section. Students enrolled in high school prior to Also see Standardized Testing on page 36 for more information. the 2014–15 school year also have the option to pursue the foundation graduation program. Note that permission to enroll 24 in the Minimum Program will be granted only if an agreement A student enrolled in high school prior to the 2014–15 school is reached among the student, the student’s parent or person year has the option of graduating under the foundation standing in parental relation, and the counselor or appropriate graduation program rather than the programs identifi ed administrator. In order for a student to take courses under above that would otherwise be applicable to that student. See the Minimum Program, the student must be at least 16 years the school counselor for additional information. of age; have completed at least two credits each in English [See Grading Guidelines at www.sharylandisd.org under language arts, math, science, and social studies courses that Academia Page or policy EIF (LOCAL)]. are required for graduation; or have failed grade 9 one or more times. [See policy EIF (LEGAL).] Personal Graduation Plans for Students Under The All students who were enrolled in high school prior to the Foundation Graduation Program 2014–15 school year must meet the following credit and A personal graduation plan will be developed for each course requirements for graduation under the programs listed high school student who is subject to the requirements of the or may choose to pursue the foundation graduation program foundation graduation program. The district encourages all as described below. students to pursue a personal graduation plan that includes [See Grading Guidelines at www.sharylandisd.org under the completion of at least one endorsement and to graduate Academia Page or policy EIF (LOCAL)]. with the distinguished level of achievement. Attainment of the distinguished level of achievement entitles a student to Foundation Graduation Program be considered for automatic admission to a public four year Every student in a Texas public school who enters grade 9 college or university in Texas, depending on his or her rank in in the 2014–15 school year and thereafter will graduate class. The school will review personal graduation plan options under the “foundation graduation program.” Within the with each student entering grade 9 and his or her parent. foundation graduation program are “endorsements,” which Before the end of grade 9, a student and his or her parent are paths of interest that include Science, Technology, will be required to sign off on a personal graduation plan that Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); Business and Industry; includes a course of study that promotes college and workforce Public Services; Arts and Humanities; and Multidisciplinary readiness and career placement and advancement, as well Studies. Endorsements earned by a student will be noted on as facilitates the transition from secondary to postsecondary the student’s transcript. The foundation graduation program education. The student’s personal graduation plan will denote also involves the term “distinguished level of achievement,” an appropriate course sequence based on the student’s choice which refl ects the completion of at least one endorsement of endorsement. and Algebra II as one of the required advanced mathematics Please also review TEA’s Graduation Toolkit, available here: credits. A personal graduation plan will be completed for each http://tea.texas.gov/communications/brochures.aspx. high school student. State law and rules prohibit a student A student may, with parental permission, amend his or her from graduating solely under the foundation graduation personal graduation plan after the initial confi rmation. program without an endorsement unless, after the student’s Students with Disabilities sophomore year, the student and student’s parent are advised Upon the recommendation of the admission, review, and of the specifi c benefi ts of graduating with an endorsement dismissal (ARD) committee, a student with a disability who and submit written permission to the school counselor for the receives special education services may be permitted student to graduate without an endorsement. A student who to graduate under the provisions of his or her IEP and in anticipates graduating under the foundation graduation accordance with state rules. program without an endorsement and who wishes to attend a A student who receives special education services and has four-year university or college after graduation must carefully completed four years of high school, but has not met the consider whether this will satisfy the admission requirements of requirements of his or her IEP, may participate in graduation the student’s desired college or university. ceremonies and receive a certifi cate of attendance. Even if Graduating under the foundation graduation program the student participates in graduation ceremonies to receive will also provide opportunities to earn “performance the certifi cate of attendance, he or she may remain enrolled acknowledgments” that will be acknowledged on a student’s to complete the IEP and earn his or her high school diploma; transcript. Performance acknowledgments are available for however, the student will only be allowed to participate in one outstanding performance in bilingualism and biliteracy, in a graduation ceremony. [See policy FMH(LEGAL).] dual credit course, on an AP or IB exam, on certain national Please also be aware that if an ARD committee places a college preparatory and readiness or college entrance exams, student with a disability on a modifi ed curriculum in a subject or for earning a state recognized or nationally or internationally area, the student will be automatically placed in the Minimum recognized license or certifi cate. The criteria for earning these Program, if that program is applicable based on the school performance acknowledgments are prescribed by state rules, year in which the student entered high school, in accordance and the school counselor can provide more information about with state rules. these acknowledgments. 25 If a student receiving special education services is scheduled offense if a person engages in hazing; solicits, encourages, to graduate under the Minimum Program or in accordance with directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in hazing; or has the provisions of his or her IEP, the student’s ARD committee will fi rsthand knowledge of an incident of hazing being planned determine whether the general EOC assessment is an accurate or having occurred and fails to report this to the principal or measure of the student’s achievement and progress and, if so, superintendent. whether successful performance is required for graduation, or [Also see Bullying on page 15 and policies FFI and FNCC.] whether an alternative assessment is more appropriate. STAAR HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS Alternate 2 is the alternative assessment currently allowed Nurse by the state. [See Standardized Testing for additional As part of the Sharyland ISD school district team, the nurse’s information.] offi ce, often referred to as the “clinic”, is here to assist your ARD committees for students with disabilities who receive child when he/she is ill or injured. special education services and who are subject to the Other important aspects of our clinic are administering foundation graduation program will make instructional and medication and to verify that all students’ immunizations assessment decisions for these students in accordance with are current. In addition, we screen certain grades for vision, state law and rules. In order to earn an endorsement under hearing, and scoliosis problems. Nurse/Clinic Visits: A student the foundation program, a student must perform satisfactorily must obtain a PASS from his teacher to visit the nurse during the on the EOC assessments and receive no modifi ed curriculum in day. He/she must always check in with his/her teacher before the student’s chosen endorsement area. A student may still be going to the nurse, even between classes. awarded an endorsement when the student fails to perform satisfactorily on no more than two EOC assessments but meets Emergency Treatment the other requirements for graduation under state law. Emergency Treatment is provided by the District when the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency Graduation Activities treatment on the district’s form. A student with asthma or severe Students who have met coursework requirements for allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be permitted to possess graduation but have not yet demonstrated satisfactory and use prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication at performance on end-of-course assessments will be allowed to school or school-related events only if he or she has written participate in graduation activities. However, please keep in authorization from his or her parent and a physician or health- mind that participating in the activities and ceremonies is not care provider and to the school nurse the ability to use the synonymous with graduating. Ultimately, the fi nal awarding of prescribed medication, including any device required to a diploma will be contingent upon the student’s completion of administer the medication. all applicable requirements for graduation. If the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis Graduation Speakers medication for use during the school day, the student and Certain graduating students will be given an opportunity to parents should discuss this with the school nurse or principal. have speaking roles at graduation ceremonies. (See policy FFAC) A student must meet local eligibility criteria, which may include In accordance with the student’s individual health plan for requirements related to student conduct, to have a speaking management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be role. Students eligible for speaking roles will be notifi ed by permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies the principal and given an opportunity to volunteer. and equipment while at school or at the school-related activity. [For student speakers at other school events, see Student See the school nurse or principal for information (See policy Speakers on page 37.] FFAF) [See FNA(LOCAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.] Contagious Conditions: To protect other children from getting HARASSMENT sick, the district will send your child home for the following reasons: [See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and • Fever of 100°F or greater Retaliation on page 19.] • Continued vomiting/diarrhea HAZING (All Grade Levels) • Suspected contagious condition or certain rashes Hazing is defi ned as any intentional, knowing, or reckless Your child may also be sent home due to: act occurring on or off campus directed against a student • Delinquent immunizations that endangers the mental or physical health or the safety • Taking medication that, in the nurse’s opinion, would of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated to, not make it safe for the student to remain in school. affi liating with, holding offi ce in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include other students. Student Illness (All Grade Levels) Hazing will not be tolerated by the district. If an incident of When your child is ill, please contact the school to let us hazing occurs, disciplinary consequences will be handled in know he or she won’t be attending that day. It is important to accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. It is a criminal remember that schools are required to exclude students with 26 certain illnesses from school for periods of time as identifi ed has been. They are spread when people exchange saliva in state rules. For example, if your child has a fever over 100 respiratory or throat secretions (such as by kissing, degrees, he or she must stay out of school until fever free coughing, or sneezing). for 24 hours without fever-reducing medications. In addition, The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. students with diarrheal illnesses must stay home until they are Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for diarrhea free without diarrhea-suppressing medications for at days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely least 24 hours. A full list of conditions for which the school must overcome the body’s immune system and cause meningitis exclude children can be obtained from the school nurse. or another serious illness. If a student becomes ill during the school day, he or she must • How can bacterial meningitis be prevented? receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the Maintaining healthy habits, like getting plenty of rest, can school nurse. If the nurse determines that the child should go help prevent infection. Using good health practices such as home, the nurse will contact the parent. covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing The district is also required to report certain contagious and washing your hands frequently with soap and water (communicable) diseases or illnesses to the Texas Department can also help stop the spread of the bacteria. It’s a good of State Health Services (TDSHS) or our local/regional health idea not to share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or authority. The school nurse can provide information from TDSHS cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss. on these notifi able conditions. There are vaccines available to offer protection from some Contact the school nurse if you have questions or if you are of the bacteria that can cause bacterial meningitis.* concerned about whether or not your child should stay home. The vaccines are safe and effective (85–90 percent). Bacterial Meningitis They can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain State law requires the district to provide information about at the injection site lasting up to two days. bacterial meningitis: Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the • What is meningitis? vaccine is given and lasts for up to fi ve years. Meningitis is an infl ammation of the covering of the brain • What should you do if you think you or a friend might and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, parasites, have bacterial meningitis? fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is common You should seek prompt medical attention. and most people recover fully. Parasitic • Where can you get more information? and fungal meningitis are very rare. Bacterial meningitis Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your is very serious and may involve complicated medical, local or regional health department offi ce are excellent surgical, pharmaceutical, and life support management. sources for information on all communicable diseases. • What are the symptoms? You may also call your local health department or Regional Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness Department of State Health Services offi ce to ask about a may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis be found at the Web sites for the Centers for Disease Control will have the same symptoms. and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department Children (over 2 years old) and adults with bacterial of State Health Services, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/. meningitis commonly have a severe headache, high * Please note that the TDSHS requires at least one fever, and neck stiffness. Other symptoms might include meningococcal vaccination for a student ages 11 to 12 or for a nausea, vomiting, discomfort looking into bright lights, student enrolling in grades 7 through 12, and state guidelines confusion, and sleepiness. In both children and adults, recommend this vaccination be administered between age 11 there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots.These can and 12, with a booster dose at 16 years of age. Also note occur anywhere on the body. that entering college students must show, with limited exception, The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a evidence of receiving a bacterial meningitis vaccination within combination of symptoms and laboratory results. the fi ve-year period prior to enrolling in and taking courses • How serious is bacterial meningitis? at an institution of higher education. It must be administered If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the at least 10 days before the semester begins. Please see the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some school nurse for more information, as this may affect a student cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a who wishes to enroll in a dual credit course taken off campus. permanent disability. Food Allergies (All Grade Levels) • How is bacterial meningitis spread? The district requests to be notifi ed when a student has been Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis diagnosed with a food allergy, especially those allergies that are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or could result in dangerous or possibly life-threatening reactions the fl u, and they are not spread by casual contact or by either by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with the particular simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis 27 food. It is important to disclose the food to which the student is information regarding the district’s SHAC is available from allergic, as well as the nature of the allergic reaction. Please the Curriculum Department. The duties of the SHAC range contact the school nurse or campus principal if your child has a from recommending curriculum to developing strategies known food allergy or as soon as possible after any diagnosis for integrating curriculum into a coordinated school health of a food allergy. program encompassing issues such as school health services, The district has developed and annually reviews a food counseling services, a safe and healthy school environment, allergy management plan, which addresses employee training, recess recommendations, improving student fi tness, mental dealing with common food allergens, and specifi c strategies health concerns, and employee wellness. for dealing with students diagnosed with severe food allergies. Sharyland ISD will promote abstinence as our sex education When the district receives information that a student has a food curriculum for students in the district. (SB 283; TEC 28.004) allergy that puts the student at risk for anaphylaxis, individual [See policies at BDF and EHAA. See Human Sexuality care plans will be developed to assist the student in safely Instruction on page 6 for additional information.] accessing the school environment. The district’s food allergy Student Wellness Policy/Wellness Plan management plan can be accessed at www.sharylandisd.org. (All Grade Levels) Head Lice (All Grade Levels) Sharyland ISD is committed to encouraging healthy students Head lice, although not an illness or a disease, is very common and therefore has developed a board-adopted wellness among children and is spread very easily through head-to-head policy at FFA(LOCAL) and corresponding plans and procedures contact during play, sports, or nap time and when children share to implement the policy. You are encouraged to contact SHAC things like brushes, combs, hats, and headphones. If careful Coordinator with questions about the content or implementation observation indicates that a student has head lice, the school of the district’s wellness policy and plan. nurse will contact the student’s parent to determine whether the child will need to be picked up from school and to discuss a Other Health-Related Matters plan for treatment with an FDA-approved medicated shampoo Physical Fitness Assessment (Grades 3–12) or cream rinse is applied. that may be purchased from any Annually, the district will conduct a physical fi tness drug or grocery store. After the student has undergone one assessment of students in grades 3–12 who are enrolled treatment, the parent should check in with the school nurse to in a physical education class. At the end of the school discuss the treatment used. The nurse can also offer additional year, a parent may submit a written request to the campus recommendations, including subsequent treatments and how principal to obtain the results of his or her child’s physical best to get rid of lice and prevent their return. fi tness assessment conducted during the school year. More information on head lice can be obtained from the TDSHS Vending Machines (All Grade Levels) website at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/schoolhealth/lice.shtm. The district has adopted and implemented policies Physical Activity Requirements and guidelines for food service, including the In accordance with policies at EHAB, EHAC, EHBG, and FFA, the guidelines to restrict student access to vending district will ensure that students in kindergarten through grade machines. For more information regarding these 5 engage in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least policies and guidelines see policies at CO and FFA. 30 minutes per day or 135 minutes per week. Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Prohibited (All Grade The district offers [3 years to complete 4 semesters of required Levels and All Others on School Property) physical education and any other regular physical activity] to Students are prohibited from possessing or using any type students in middle or junior high school to meet district physical of tobacco product, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes education requirements for these grades. For additional products), or any other electronic vaporizing device, while information on the district’s requirements and programs on school property at any time or while attending an off regarding elementary, middle, and junior high school student campus school-related activity. physical activity requirements, please see the principal. The district and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions Physical Education Excuses: A Physical Education excuse from a against the use of all tobacco products, e-cigarettes or parent or nurse is valid for only 2 days. If more days are needed, any other electronic vaporizing device, by students and a doctor’s excuse needs to be brought to the nurse or coach. others on school property and at school-sponsored and Excessive excuses may require administrator or nurse approval. school-related activities.[See the Student Code of Conduct This may prevent your child from participating in other physical and policies at FNCD and GKA.] activities. Asbestos Management Plan (All Grade Levels) School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) The district’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to (All Grade Levels) be in compliance with state and federal regulations, During the preceding school year, the district’s School Health is available in the Business Offi ce. If you have Advisory Council (SHAC) held 7 meetings. Additional any questions, please contact the Assistant Superintendent 28 for Business and Finance. Pest Management Plan (All Grade Levels) of having received a bacterial meningitis vaccination within The district applies only pest control products that comply the fi ve years prior to enrolling in and attending classes at with state and federal guidelines. Except in an emergency, an institution of higher education. It must be administered at signs will be posted 48 hours before application. least 10 days before the semester begins. A student wanting to Parents who want to be notifi ed prior to pesticide application enroll in a dual credit course taken off campus may be subject inside their child’s school assignment area may contact the to this requirement. Director for Maintenance. [For further information, see policy FFAB(LEGAL) and the TDSHS site: HOMELESS STUDENTS (All Grade Levels) http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default.shtm.] You are encouraged to inform the district if you or your child are experiencing homelessness. District staff can share resources LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES (All Grade Levels) with you that may be able to assist you and your family. Questioning of Students For more information on services for homeless students, contact When law enforcement offi cers or other lawful authorities wish the district’s homeless education liaison, Federal Programs to question or interview a student at school, the principal will Director, at (956) 580-5200 ext. 1052. cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the ILLNESS questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation. [See Student Illness under Health-Related Matters on page 26.] In other circumstances: • The principal will verify and record the identity of the IMMUNIZATION (All Grade Levels) offi cer or other authority and ask for an explanation of A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or the need to question or interview the student at school. must present a certifi cate or statement that for medical reasons • The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to or reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the student notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the will not be immunized. For exemptions based on reasons of principal considers to be a valid objection. conscience, only offi cial forms issued by the Texas Department • The principal ordinarily will be present unless the of State Health Services (TDSHS), Immunization Branch, can be interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a honored by the district. This form may be obtained by writing valid objection. the TDSHS Immunization Branch (MC 1946), P.O. Box 149347, Students Taken Into Custody Austin, Texas 78714-9347; or online at https://corequest.dshs. State law requires the district to permit a student to be taken texas.gov/. The form must be notarized and submitted to the into legal custody: principal or school nurse within 90 days of notarization. If the • To comply with an order of the juvenile court. parent is seeking an exemption for more than one student in • To comply with the laws of arrest. the family, a separate form must be provided for each student. • By a law enforcement offi cer if there is probable cause The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of or conduct in need of supervision. illness required by the TDSHS. Proof of immunization may be • By a probation offi cer if there is probable cause to established by personal records from a licensed physician or believe the student has violated a condition of probation public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation. imposed by the juvenile court. For the protection of children throughout the community, state • By an authorized representative of Child Protective law and district policy requires that each child enrolled in Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective school provide proof of immunization against diphtheria, Services, a law enforcement offi cer, or a juvenile probation rubella, rubeola (measles), mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus offi cer, without a court order, under the conditions set out infl uenza type B, and poliomyelitis. A child or student must meet in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health all the immunization requirements specifi c to an age group or safety. upon fi rst entering the age group. Specifi c information about • To comply with a properly issued directive to take a immunization requirements may be obtained from the campus student into custody. nurse. Policies FFAB(LEGAL), FFAB(LOCAL), FFAB(EXHIBIT) Before a student is released to a law enforcement offi cer or If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the the student or parent must present a certifi cate signed by a offi cer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor’s opinion, the the offi cial’s authority to take custody of the student. immunization required poses a signifi cant risk to the health and The principal will immediately notify the superintendent and well-being of the student or member of the student’s family or will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the offi cer household. This certifi cate must be renewed yearly unless the or other authorized person raises what the principal considers physician specifi es a life-long condition. to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Because the As noted above at Bacterial Meningitis, entering college principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a students must also now, with limited exception, furnish evidence 29 student’s release to a law enforcement offi cer, any notifi cation with the necessary information. The student must sign out will most likely be after the fact. through the main offi ce and sign in upon his or her return, if the student returns the same day. If a student is 18 Notifi cation of Law Violations years of age or is an emancipated minor, the student may The district is required by state law to notify: produce a note on his or her own behalf. Documentation • All instructional and support personnel who have regarding the reason for the absence will be required. responsibility for supervising a student who has been taken • If a student becomes ill during the school day and the into custody, arrested or referred to the juvenile court for school nurse or other district personnel determines that the any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors. student should go home, the nurse will contact the student’s • All instructional and support personnel who have regular parent and document the parent’s wishes regarding contact with a student who is thought to have committed release from school. Unless directed by the parent to certain offences or who has been convicted, received release the student unaccompanied, the parent or other deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, authorized adult must follow the sign-out procedures as or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felony listed above. If a student is allowed to leave campus by offense or certain misdemeanors. himself or herself, as permitted by the student’s parent, • All appropriate district personnel in regards to a student or if the student is age 18 or is an emancipated minor, who is required to register as a sex offender. the nurse will document the time of day the student was [For further information, see policies FL(LEGAL) and GRAA (LEGAL).] released. Under no circumstances will a child in elementary LEAVING CAMPUS (All Grade Levels) or middle school be released unaccompanied by a parent Please remember that student attendance is crucial to learning. or adult authorized by the parent. We ask that appointments be scheduled outside of school hours At Any Other Time During the School Day as much as reasonably possible. Also note that picking up a Students are not authorized to leave campus during regular child early on a regular basis results in missed opportunities for school hours for any other reason, except with the permission learning. Unless the principal has granted approval because of the principal. of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be Students who leave campus in violation of these rules will be released before the end of the school day. subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student State rules require that parental consent be obtained before Code of Conduct. any student is allowed to leave campus for any part of the LOST AND FOUND (All Grade Levels) school day. The district has put the following procedures in A “lost and found” collection box is located in the campus offi ce. place in order to document parental consent: If your child has lost an item, please encourage him or her to • For students in elementary and middle school, a parent or check the lost and found box. The district discourages students otherwise authorized adult must come to the offi ce and sign from bringing to school personal items of high monetary value, the student out. Please be prepared to show identifi cation. as the district is not responsible for lost or stolen items. The Once an identity is verifi ed, a campus representative will campus will dispose of lost and found items at the end of each then call for the student or collect the student and bring semester. him or her to the offi ce. For safety purposes and stability of the learning environment, we cannot allow you to go MEDICINE AT SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) to the classroom or other area unescorted to pick up the The district will not purchase medication to give to a student. student. If the student returns to campus the same day, District employees will not give a student prescription the parent or authorized adult must sign the student medication, nonprescription medication, herbal substances, back in through the main offi ce upon the student’s return. anabolic steroids, or dietary supplements, with the following Documentation regarding the reason for the absence will exceptions: also be required. • Only authorized employees, in accordance with policy • For students in high school, the same process will be at FFAC, may administer: followed. If the student’s parent will authorize the student • Prescription medication, in the original, properly to leave campus unaccompanied, a note provided by the labeled container, provided by the parent, along with parent must be submitted to the main offi ce in advance of a written request. the absence, no later than two hours prior to the student’s • Prescription medication from a properly labeled need to leave campus. A phone call received from the unit dosage container fi lled by a registered nurse or parent may be accepted, but the school may ultimately another qualifi ed district employee from the original, require a note to be submitted for documentation purposes. properly labeled container. Once the offi ce has received information that the student’s • Nonprescription medication, in the original, properly parent consents to the student leaving campus, a pass labeled container, provided by the parent along with will be issued to the student to hand to his or her teacher a written request. 30 • Herbal or dietary supplements provided by the health staff. All medications will be kept locked up in the parent only if required by the student’s individualized Nurse’s Offi ce/Clinic and given out only by our health education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan for a staff or other designated personnel. Students who are student with disabilities. allowed to carry inhalers are advised not to let other Students whose schedules provide for regular time spent students use them. outdoors, including for recess and physical education classes, 2. To give medications at school, we must have a signed form should apply sunscreen before coming to school. available at the nurse`s offi ce/clinic dated by the student’s For students at the elementary level, the student’s teacher parent or legal guardian. Prescription medications must or other district personnel will apply sunscreen to a student’s be in the original container with the pharmacy label. We exposed skin if the student brings the sunscreen to school are not allowed to give medications with one student’s and requests assistance with the application of the sunscreen. name to any other student, even a brother or sister. Nothing prohibits a student at this level from applying his or 3. Nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications must be her own sunscreen if the student is capable of doing so. brought to school in the original containers(or blister For students at the secondary level, a student may possess packs) labeled with student’s name. and apply sunscreen when necessary. If the student will need 4. The following will not be given at school: assistance with this application, please address the need for • No sample medications, (unless your health care provider assistance with the school nurse. sends written instructions) Whether a student is at the elementary or secondary level, if • No herbal products or dietary supplements sunscreen needs to be administered to treat any type of medical • No naturopathic products condition, this should be handled through communication with • No medications from another country (including Mexico) the school nurse so that the district is made aware of any 5. We encourage you to contact the nurse if your child is safety and medical issues. taking medication with side effects that affect him in the *Note: Written authorization from parent is needed. See classroom. your school nurse to fi ll out the appropriate form. No spray Psychotropic Drugs sunscreen will be allowed. A psychotropic drug is a substance used in the diagnosis, A student with asthma or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma or a medication. It is intended to have an altering effect on anaphylaxis medication at school or school-related events perception, emotion, or behavior and is commonly described as only if he or she has written authorization from his or her a mood- or behavior-altering substance. If possible medication parent and a physician or other licensed health-care provider. should be given at home. The student must also demonstrate to his or her physician or Teachers and other district employees may discuss a student’s health-care provider and to the school nurse the ability to use academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or the prescribed medication, including any device required to another employee as appropriate; however, they are not administer the medication. permitted to recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A district If the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis employee, who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse medication for use during the school day, the student and practitioner, a physician, or a certifi ed or credentialed mental parents should discuss this with the school nurse or principal. health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate. [For management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be further information, see policy at FFAC.] permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT See the school nurse or principal for information. [See policy In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination and as required by FFAF(LEGAL).] law, Sharyland ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, REGULATIONS FOR GIVING MEDICATIONS AT religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, disability, age, or any other basis proibited by law, in providing education SCHOOL services, activities, and programs, including CTE programs, and Medications that your child needs during the school year can provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated usually be given at home. Most medications are prescribed one, youth groups. two, or three times a day. These can be given before school, The following district representatives have been designated to after school, and/or at bedtime. Sometimes medication must coordinate compliance with these legal requirements: be given during the school day and we will gladly administer • Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the medication. the basis of sex, including sexual harassment or gender-based Here are a few medication guidelines to follow: harassment: [Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources]. 1. Students may not have ANY medications with them during • ADA/Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding school hours unless they have written permission from our discrimination on the basis of disability: [Special Education 31 Director]. prevention efforts. • All other concerns regarding discrimination: See the • Contacting school offi cials if you are concerned with your superintendent. child’s emotional or mental well-being. [See policies FB, and FFH, and GKD.] • Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations. [See policies at BE and BED for more information.] PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS / HEALTH SCREENINGS (All Grade Levels) Athletics’ Participation (Secondary Grade Levels Only) Working Together A student who wishes to participate in, or continue participation Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education in, the district’s athletics program governed by the UIL must succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong submit certifi cation from a health-care provider authorized partnership between home and school. Your involvement and under UIL rules that the student has been examined and is engagement in this partnership may include: physically able to participate in the athletic program. • Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and This examination is required to be submitted annually to the working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of district. Students are required to undergo a risk assessment for the educational opportunities the school provides. type 2 diabetes at the same time the district screens students • Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments for hearing and vision issues, or for abnormal spinal curvatures. and special projects and comes to school each day prepared, Also see policy FFAA for Tuberculosis testing. rested, and ready to learn. PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF • Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, SILENCE (All Grade Levels) offered in the district. Each school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance • Discussing with the school counselor or principal any questions to the United States fl ag and the Pledge of Allegiance you may have about the options and opportunities available to the Texas fl ag. Parents may submit a written request to to your child. the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge. • Reviewing the requirements and options for graduation with [See Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags on your child in middle school and again while your child is page 7.] enrolled in high school. State law requires that one minute of silence follow recitation of • Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting the pledges. Each student may choose to refl ect, pray, meditate, teachers as needed. [See Academic Counseling on page 18] or engage in any other silent activity during that minute so long • Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others. In conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person addition, state law requires that each campus provide for the conference with a teacher, school counselor, or principal, observance of one minute of silence at the beginning of the fi rst please call the school offi ce for an appointment. The teacher class period when September 11 falls on a regular school day will usually return your call or meet with you during his or in remembrance of those who lost their lives on September 11, her conference period or before or after school. [See Report 2001. [See policy EC for more information.] Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences on page 33.] PRAYER (All Grade Levels) • Becoming a school volunteer. [For further information, see Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently policy GKG and Volunteers on page 39.] pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt • Participating in campus parent organizations. instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not • Serving as a parent representative on the district-level encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain or campus-level planning committees, assisting in the from such prayer or meditation during any school activity. development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. [For further information, see policies at PROMOTION AND RETENTION BQA and BQB.] A student will be promoted only on the basis of academic • Serving on the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), assisting achievement or demonstrated profi ciency in the subject matter the district in ensuring local community values are refl ected of the course or grade level. In addition, at certain grade in health education instruction and other wellness issues. [See levels a student—with limited exceptions—will be required to policies at BDF, EHAA, FFA, and information in this handbook pass the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness at School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) on page 28.] (STAAR), if the student is enrolled in a public Texas school • Serving on a committee to determine criteria to be used to on any day between January 1 and the date of the fi rst evaluate the overall performance of the district and each administration of the STAAR. campus in community and student engagement. For further Elementary and Middle/Junior High Grade Levels information, please contact the campus principal. In grades 1-8, promotion to the next grade level shall be based • Being aware of the school’s ongoing bullying and harassment on an overall average of 70 on a scale of 100 based on 32 course-level, grade-level standards for all subject areas and result in violations of required school attendance as well as the grade of 70 or above in three of the following areas: reading student not being promoted to the next grade level. (grades 1-6), language arts (grades 7-8), mathematics, A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any science, and social studies. student at the middle school or junior high level who did not In addition, in grades 9-12 a student—with limited exceptions— perform satisfactorily on a state-mandated assessment or is will be required to pass the State of Texas Assessments of determined by the district as not likely to earn a high school Academic Readiness (STAAR), if the student is enrolled in a diploma before the fi fth school year following enrollment in public Texas school on any day between January 1 and the grade 9. The PGP will be designed and implemented by date of the fi rst administration of the STAAR.* school counselor, teacher, or other staff member designated • In order to be promoted to grade 6, students enrolled in by the principal. The plan will, among other items, identify the grade 5 must perform satisfactorily on the mathematics student’s educational goals, address the parent’s educational and reading sections of the grade 5 assessment in English expectations for the student, and outline an intensive instruction or Spanish. program for the student. [For additional information, see the • Beginning with the 2008–2009 school year, in order to be promoted to grade 9, students enrolled in grade 8 must [school counselor or principal] and policy EIF(LEGAL).] For perform satisfactorily on the mathematics and reading a student receiving special education services, the student’s sections of the grade 8 assessment in English. IEP may serve as the student’s PGP and would therefore be If a student in grade 5 or 8 is enrolled in a course that earns developed by the student’s ARD committee. high school credit and for which an end-of-course (EOC) For information related to the development of personal assessment will be administered, the student will not be subject graduation plans for high school students, see Personal to the promotion requirements described above for the relevant Graduation Plans for Students Under the Foundation grade 5 or 8 assessment. The student will instead take the Graduation Program on page 25. corresponding EOC assessment. High School Grade Levels If a student in grades 3–8 is enrolled in a class or course intended To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of for students above his or her current grade level in which the at least 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards. student will be administered a state mandated assessment, the A student in grades 9–12 will be advanced a grade level student will be required to take an applicable state mandated based on the number of course credits earned. [Also see assessment only for the course in which he or she is enrolled, Grade Level Classifi cation on page 24.] unless otherwise required to do so by federal law. Students will also have multiple opportunities to retake EOC [See Standardized Testing on page 36.] assessments. [See Graduation on page 24 and Standardized A student in grade 5 or 8 will have two additional opportunities Testing on page 36 for more information about EOC to take the state test. If a student fails a second time, a grade assessments.] placement committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the teacher, and the student’s parent, will determine the additional RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL special instruction the student will receive. After a third failed [See Leaving Campus on page 30.] attempt, the student will be retained; however, the parent can REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS AND appeal this decision to the committee. In order for the student to be promoted, based on standards previously established by CONFERENCES (All Grade Levels) the district, the decision of the committee must be unanimous Report cards with each student’s grades or performance and and the student must complete additional special instruction absences in each class or subject are issued at least once every before beginning the next grade level. Whether the student is six weeks for elementary school children and during the fourth retained or promoted, an educational plan for the student will week of a nine-week grading period for secondary students. be designed to enable the student to perform at grade level by At the end of the fi rst three weeks of a grading period [or during the end of the next school year. [See Policy EIE.] the fourth week of a nine-week grading period], parents will Certain students—some with disabilities and some classifi ed as receive a progress report if their child’s performance [in any English language learners——may be eligible for exemptions, course/subject area OR in English language arts, mathematics, accommodations, or deferred testing. For more information, science, or social studies] is near or below 70, or is below the see the principal, school counselor, or special education director. expected level of performance. If the student receives a grade Parents of a student at or above grade level 3 who does not lower than 70 in any class or subject at the end of a grading perform satisfactorily on his or her state-mandated exams period, the parent will be requested to schedule a conference will be notifi ed that their child will participate in special with the teacher of that class or subject. [See Working Together instructional programs designed to improve performance. on page 32 for how to schedule a conference.] The student may be required to participate in this instruction Teachers follow grading guidelines that have been approved before or after normal school hours or outside of the normal by the [principal or superintendent] pursuant to the board school year. Failure of a student to attend these programs may adopted policy and are designed to refl ect each student’s relative mastery of each assignment for the grading period, 33 semester, or course. State law provides that a test or course is sounded, students need to follow the direction of teachers grade issued by a teacher cannot be changed unless the board or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. determines that the grade was arbitrary or contains an error, [For further information, contact the campus principal]. or that the teacher did not follow the district’s grading policy. Emergency Medical Treatment and Information [See policy EIA(LOCAL) and Grading Guidelines on page 24.] If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school Questions about grade calculation should fi rst be discussed related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school with the teacher; if the question is not resolved, the student may have to rely on previously provided written parental consent or parent may request a conference with the principal in to obtain emergency medical treatment, and information about accordance with FNG(LOCAL). allergies to medications, foods, insect bites, etc. Therefore, The report card or unsatisfactory progress report will state parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care whether tutorials are required for a student who receives a consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information grade lower than 70 in a class or subject. up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, Report cards and unsatisfactory progress reports must be allergies, etc.). Please contact the school nurse to update any signed by the parent and returned to the school. The district information that the nurse or the teacher needs to know. may use an electronic program to communicate academic information about your child, including for report card and Emergency School-Closing Information progress reporting purposes. An electronic signature of the Each year, parents are asked to complete an emergency parent will be accepted by the district, but you are entitled release form to provide contact information in the event that to request the option to provide a handwritten signature of school is dismissed early or opening is delayed because of acknowledgment instead. severe weather or another emergency, or if the campus must RETALIATION restrict access due to a security threat. [See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and The district will rely on contact information on fi le with the district to communicate with parents in an emergency situation, Retaliation on page 19.] which may include realtime or automated messages. It is crucial SAFETY (All Grade Levels) to notify your child’s school when a phone number previously Student safety on campus, at school-related events, and on provided to the district has changed. district vehicles is a high priority of the district. Although the If the campus must close, delay opening, or restrict access to district has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation the building because of an emergency, the district will also of students is essential to ensuring school safety. A student is alert the community in the following ways: expected to: The district may close schools because of bad weather • Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or others at or emergency conditions. When such conditions exist, the risk. superintendent will make the offi cial decision concerning the • Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and closing of the district’s facilities. When it becomes necessary the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional to open late or to release students early, or to cancel school, rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, campus district offi cials will post a notice on the district’s website, behavior coordinator, teachers, or bus drivers. Twitter (SISD emergency), Skylert (voice, email, and text) and • Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the notify the following radio and television stations: principal any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus KGBT TELEVISION-NEWS CHANNEL 4 or threats made by any person toward a student or staff 9201 West Expressway 83 member. Harlingen, Texas 78552 • Know emergency evacuation routes and signals. Phone:(956)-366-4444 • Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus KRGV TELEVISION-NEWSCHANNEL 5 drivers, and other district employees who are overseeing the welfare of students. P.O. BOX 5 Weslaco, Texas 78599-005 Accident Insurance Phone: (956)-631-5555 Soon after the school year begins, parents will have the KGBT-Am Fm Radio, Business Offi ce opportunity to purchase low-cost accident insurance that would 200 South 10th Street Offi ce help meet medical expenses in the event of injury to their child. McAllen, TX 78501-4884 Preparedness Drills: Evacuation, Severe Weather, and Phone: (956) 631-5499 Other Emergencies Business Types: Radio Broadcasting Companies & Stations From time to time, students, teachers, and other district KIWW-Fm 96.1 the One, Business Offi ce employees will participate in preparedness drills of 200 South 10th Street Offi ce emergency procedures. When the command is given or alarm McAllen, TX 78501-4884 34 Phone: (956) 631-5499 cash into your account. Credit card payments are accepted on Business Types: Radio Broadcasting Companies & Stations line. Information can be obtained from the cafeteria manager SAT, ACT, AND OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTS or at the Child Nutrition Program offi ce. Free and reduced-price meals are available based on See Standardized Testing on page 36. fi nancial need or household situation. Information about a SCHOOL FACILITIES student’s participation is confi dential; however, disclosure Use By Students Before and After School (All Grade Levels) of a student’s eligibility may be made without prior notice or consent to programs, activities, and individuals that are Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students specifi cally authorized access under the National School Lunch before and after school for specifi c purposes. Students are Act (NSLA), which is the law that sets forth the disclosure limits required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled for the district’s child nutrition programs. A student’s name, to take place. eligibility status, and other information may be disclosed to Unless the teacher or sponsor overseeing an activity gives certain agencies as authorized under the NSLA to facilitate permission, a student will not be permitted to go to another the enrollment of eligible children in Medicaid or the state area of the building or campus. children’s health insurance program (CHIP) unless the student’s After dismissal of school in the afternoon, unless a student is parent notifi es the district that a student’s information should involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher or not be disclosed. A parent’s decision will not affect the child’s other authorized employee or adult, or unless students are eligibility for free and reduced price meals or free milk. granted permission to remain on campus in accordance with policy FNAB, students must leave campus immediately. Library (All Grade Levels) Conduct Before and After School (All Grade Levels) The library is a learning laboratory with books, computers, magazines, and other materials available for classroom Teachers and administrators have full authority over student assignments, projects, and reading or listening pleasure. conduct at before- or after -school activities on district premises and at school-sponsored events off district premises, such as, but Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups (Secondary not limited to play rehearsals, club meetings, athletic practices, Grade Levels Only) prom, and special study groups or tutorials. Students are subject Student-organized, student-led noncurriculum-related groups to the same rules of conduct that apply during the instructional are permitted to meet during the hours designated by the day and will be subject to consequences established by the principal before and after school. These groups must comply Student Code of Conduct or any stricter standards of behavior with the requirements of policy FNAB (LOCAL). established by the sponsor for extracurricular participants. A list of these groups is available in the principal’s offi ce. Use of Hallways During Class Time (All Grade Levels) SEARCHES (All Grade Levels) Loitering or standing in the halls during class is not permitted. In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to During class time, a student must have a hall pass to be outside ensure that schools are safe and drug free, district offi cials the classroom for any purpose. Failure to obtain a pass will may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law. of Conduct. Students’ Desks and Lockers (All Grade Levels) Cafeteria Services Students’ desks and lockers are school property and remain Children need healthy meals to learn. Sharyland Child under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when Nutrition offers healthy meals every school day. Our Child assigned to an individual student. Nutrition program participates in the National School Lunch Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of Program. Breakfast costs $1.25 at secondary and $1.00 at their assigned desks and lockers. Students must be certain elementary. Lunch costs $3.00 at secondary and $2.50 at that their lockers are locked, and that the combinations are not elementary. Your children may qualify for free or reduced- available to others. priced meals. Reduced price is .30 cents for breakfast and Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time .40 cents for lunch. there is reasonable suspicion to believe that they contain All parents/guardians are encouraged to fi ll out one application articles or materials prohibited by policy, whether or not a for all students in your household. Lunch applications are student is present. available on line, at the campus or the Child Nutrition Program The parent will be notifi ed if any prohibited items are found in offi ce. Students that do not qualify for free or reduced meals the student’s desk or locker. are not able to charge meals. Students with a negative meal account will receive 2 courtesy meals. Therefore, it will be Telecommunications and Other Electronic Devices the parents responsibility to provide lunch from home to the (All Grade Levels) student until the account is no longer negative. Meals may be Use of district-owned equipment and its network systems is not prepaid; contact your cafeteria manager to deposit checks or private and will be monitored by the district. [See policy CQ 35 for more information.] to disciplinary action as described in the code of conduct. Any searches of personal telecommunications or other personal Any student who fails a fi eld sobriety test and denies the use of electronic devices will be conducted in accordance with law, drugs or alcohol will be offered a drug test. Refusal to submit and the device may be confi scated in order to perform to an alcohol or drug test is interpreted as a positive test and a lawful search. A confi scated device may be turned over will be subject to disciplinary action as described in the code to law enforcement to determine whether a crime has been of conduct. Providing an adulterated, diluted or substituted committed. [See policy FNF(LEGAL) for more information.] specimen will be considered a “failed” drug test. Vehicles on Campus [For further information, see policy FNF(LOCAL). Also see Steroids on page 37.] (Secondary Grade Levels Only) A student has full responsibility for the security and content of SEXUAL HARASSMENT his or her vehicle parked on district property and must make [See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to Retaliation on page 19.] others. [See also the Student Code of Conduct.] SPECIAL PROGRAMS (All Grade Levels) Vehicles parked on school district property are under the The district provides special programs for gifted and talented jurisdiction of the school district. School offi cials may search students, homeless students, bilingual students, migrant students, any vehicle any time there is reasonable suspicion to do so, English language learners, students diagnosed with dyslexia, with or without the permission of the student. If a vehicle and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each subject to search is locked, the student will be asked to unlock program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, the vehicle. If the student refuses, the student’s parent will be as well as programs and services offered in the district or by contacted. If a search is also refused by the student’s parent, other organizations. A student or parent with questions about the district will turn the matter over to law enforcement. The these programs should contact the Assistant Superintendent for district may, in certain circumstances, contact law enforcement Curriculum and Instruction at (956) 580-5200 ext. 1072. even if permission to search is granted. STANDARDIZED TESTING Trained Dogs (All Grade Levels) The district will use trained dogs to alert school offi cials to the Secondary Grade Levels presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and SAT/ACT (Scholastic Aptitude Test and American alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used around lockers College Test) and the areas around vehicles parked on school property. Many colleges require either the American College Test (ACT) Searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for admission. Students may also be conducted by trained dogs when students are not are encouraged to talk with the school counselor early during present. An item in a classroom, a locker, or a vehicle to which their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; a trained dog alerts may be searched by school offi cials. these exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year. Metal Detectors (All Grade Levels) Preliminary SAT (PSAT) and ACT-Aspire are the corresponding [For further information, see policy FNF(LOCAL).] preparatory and readiness assessments for the SAT and ACT. Beginning in April 2014, the ACT-Plan has been replaced by Drug-Testing (Secondary Grade Levels Only) the ACT-Aspire, and more information can be obtained on A student may be required by the principal or designee these assessments from the school counselor. to submit to a drug use or alcohol test at any time upon Note that participation in these assessments may qualify reasonable suspicion by any school offi cial that the student is a student to receive a performance acknowledgment on his under the infl uence of a drug or alcohol while at school or a or her transcript under the foundation graduation program school-related activity. Reasonable suspicion must be based and may qualify as a substitute for an end-of-course testing on specifi c personal observation concerning the appearance, requirement in certain circumstances. speech, or behavior of the student that indicate the effects A student’s performance at a certain level on the SAT or ACT of drug or alcohol use. Information provided by a reliable also makes the student eligible for automatic admission to a source, if based on personal knowledge, may also constitute Texas public institution of higher education. reasonable suspicion. TSI (Texas Success Initiative) Assessment The District may use an outside consultant/contractor to Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, secure the testing services needed for the administration for a most students must take a standardized test called the Texas student drug and alcohol drug test. Testing procedures shall Success Initiative (TSI) assessment. The purpose of the TSI be minimally intrusive and will be tailored to test only for assessment is to assess the reading, mathematics, and writing substances the student is suspected of using, and limiting the skills that entering freshmen-level students should have if they disclosure of the information it reveals. are to perform effectively in undergraduate certifi cate or Any student found to be under the infl uence of any illegal drug degree programs in Texas public colleges and universities. This or alcohol while at or a school-related activity will be subject assessment may be required before a student enrolls in a dual- 36 credit course offered through the district as well. Achieving STAAR-A will be available for an eligible student with a certain benchmark scores on this assessment for college Section 504 accommodation plan who has been identifi ed readiness may also waive certain end-of-course assessment with dyslexia or a related disorder, as well as for a student requirements in limited circumstances. receiving special education services, if the student meets state- established criteria and requires certain instructional and STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic assessment accommodations on a routine basis. Readiness) STAAR Alternate 2, for students receiving special education Grades 3–8 services who meet certain criteria established by the state, In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, will be available for eligible students, as determined by the students at certain grade levels are required to take the state student’s ARD committee. assessment, called STAAR, in the following subjects: A student’s ARD committee for students receiving special • Mathematics, annually in grades 3–8 education services will determine whether successful • Reading, annually in grades 3–8 performance on the EOC assessments will be required for • Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 and 7 graduation within the parameters identifi ed in state rules and • Science in grades 5 and 8 the student’s personal graduation plan. • Social Studies in grade 8 STAAR-L, which is a linguistically accommodated assessment, Successful performance on the reading and math assessments will be available for English language learners and who in grades 5 and 8 is required by law, unless the student is require this type of testing accommodation. enrolled in a reading or math course intended for students Also see Graduation on page 24 for additional information. above the student’s current grade level, and in grade 3 locally STEROIDS (Secondary Grade Levels Only) in order for the student to be promoted to the next grade level. State law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, See Promotion and Retention on page 32 for additional delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid. Anabolic information. steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can STAAR-A will be available for an eligible student with a prescribe use. Section 504 accommodation plan who has been identifi ed Body building, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle with dyslexia or a related disorder, as well as for a student bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid or human receiving special education services, if the student meets state- growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use established criteria and requires certain instructional and and is a criminal offense. assessment accommodations on a routine basis. STAAR Alternate 2, for students receiving special education STUDENTS IN FOSTER CARE (All Grade Levels) services who meet certain state-established criteria, will be In an effort to provide educational stability, the district strives available for eligible students, as determined by the student’s to assist any student who is currently placed or newly placed ARD committee. in foster care (temporary or permanent custody of the state, STAAR-L is a linguistically accommodated assessment that is sometimes referred to as substitute care)) with the enrollment available for certain limited English profi cient (LEP) students, as and registration process, as well as other educational services determined by the student’s Language Profi ciency Assessment throughout the student’s enrollment in the district. Committee (LPAC). A Spanish version of STAAR is also available Please contact the Federal Programs Director, who has been to students through grade 5 who need this accommodation. designated as the district’s foster care liaison, at (956) 580- 5200 with any questions. High School Courses—End-of-Course (EOC) [See also Students in the Conservatorship of the State on Assessments page 10 for more information.] STAAR end-of-course (EOC) assessments are administered for the following courses: STUDENT SPEAKERS (All Grade Levels) • Algebra I The district provides students the opportunity to introduce the • English I and English II following school events: high school football games, high school • Biology and junior high pep rallies, banquets, awards assemblies, • United States History special programs, announcements, sporting events, and any Satisfactory performance on the applicable assessments other events as designated by campus administration. will be required for graduation, unless otherwise waived or If a student meets the eligibility criteria and wishes to introduce substituted as allowed by state law and rules. one of the school events listed above, the student should There are three testing windows during the year in which a submit his or her name in accordance with policy FNA(LOCAL). student may take an EOC assessment, which will occur during Students are not eligible to volunteer if they are in a the fall, spring, and summer months. If a student does not meet disciplinary placement during any part of the fi rst full week of satisfactory performance, the student will have additional instruction. If there are no student volunteers, the District shall opportunities to retake the assessment. seek volunteers again at the beginning of the next semester. 37 [See FNA(LOCAL) regarding other speaking opportunities and the parent; however, the student will be provided the necessary Graduation on page 23 for information related to student instructional resources and equipment for use at school during speakers at graduation ceremonies.] the school day. SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION AND TRANSFERS (All Grade Levels) INTERVENTION (All Grade Levels) The principal is authorized to transfer a student from one If you are worried that your child may be using or is in danger classroom to another. Refer to Policies FDA LOCAL and FDB of experimenting, using, or abusing illegal drugs or other LOCAL for more information regarding intradistrict and prohibited substances, please contact the school counselor. interdistrict transfers. The school counselor can provide you with a list of community [See Safety Transfers/ Assignments, on page 8, Bullying, on page 14 and Students Who Have Learning Diffi culties or resources that may be of assistance to you. The TDSHS Who Need Special Education Services, on page 8, for other maintains information regarding children’s mental health transfer options.] and substance abuse intervention services on its Web site: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/mhsa-child-adolescent-services/. Changing Schools Within the District If a family moves from one attendance zone to another within SUICIDE AWARENESS (All Grade Levels) the district, the child(ren) may complete the grading period The district is committed to partnering with parents to support at the school in the former zone. They must transfer to the the healthy mental, emotional, and behavioral development new school at the beginning of the next grading period. of its students. If you are concerned about your child, please The principal is authorized to transfer a student from one access http://www.texassuicideprevention.org or contact classroom to another. the school counselor for more information related to suicide TRANSPORTATION (All Grade Levels) prevention services available in your area. School-Sponsored Trips SUMMER SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are Students who do not meet the criteria for promotion to the next required to use transportation provided by the school to and grade level may attend summer school program(s) provided from the event. As approved by the principal, a coach or by the District. A student who attends at least 90 percent of sponsor of an extracurricular activity may establish procedures the summer school program in the applicable content areas) related to making an exception to this requirement when a parent requests that the student be released to the parent or shall be promoted to the next grade level at the beginning of to another adult designated by the parent. the school year, but only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated profi ciency of the subject matter of the course Buses and Other School Vehicles or grade level. The district makes school bus transportation available to all students living two or more miles from school. This service is TARDIES (All Grade Levels) provided at no cost to students. Bus routes and stops will be At both the elementary and secondary level, after the third designated annually, and any subsequent changes will be tardy, a student may be assigned to detention hall. Repeated posted at the school. For the safety of the operator of the instances of tardiness will result in more severe disciplinary vehicle and all passengers, students must board buses or other action, in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. In vehicles only at authorized stops, and drivers must unload addition, campus administration may fi le truancy charges on passengers only at authorized stops. students who are persistently tardy. A parent may also designate a child-care facility or TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS, grandparent’s residence as the regular pickup and drop- off location for his or her child. The designated facility or TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT, AND OTHER residence must be on an approved stop on an approved route. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS (All Grade Levels) For information on bus routes and stops or to designate an Textbooks and other district-approved instructional materials alternate pickup or drop-off location, you may contact the are provided to students free of charge for each subject or Transportation Director at (956) 580-5240. class. Any books must be covered by the student, as directed See the Student Code of Conduct for provisions regarding by the teacher, and treated with care. Electronic textbooks transportation to the Disciplinary Alternative Education and technological equipment may also be provided to students, Program (DAEP). depending on the course and course objectives. A student who Students are expected to assist district staff in ensuring that is issued a damaged item should report the damage to the buses and other district vehicles remain in good condition and teacher. Any student failing to return an item in acceptable that transportation is provided safely. When riding in district condition loses the right to free textbooks and technological vehicles, including buses, students are held to behavioral equipment until the item is returned or the damage paid for by 38 standards established in this handbook and the Student Code VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) of Conduct. Students must: • Follow the driver’s directions at all times. General Visitors • Enter and leave the vehicle in an orderly manner at the Parents and others are welcome to visit district schools. For designated stop nearest home. the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption • Keep feet, books, instrument cases, and other objects out of instructional time, all visitors must fi rst report to the main of the aisle. offi ce and must comply with all applicable district policies and • Not deface the vehicle or its equipment. procedures. When arriving on campus, all parents and other • Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold visitors should be prepared to show identifi cation. any object out of the window, or throw objects within or Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are out of the vehicle. permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and • Not possess or use any form of tobacco or e-cigarettes in only so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere any district vehicle. with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school • Observe all usual classroom rules. environment. Even if the visit is approved prior to the visitor’s • Be seated while the vehicle is moving. arrival, the individual must check in at the main offi ce fi rst. • Wait for the driver’s signal upon leaving the vehicle and All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards before crossing in front of the vehicle. of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be • Follow any other rules established by the operator of the permitted. vehicle. Visitors Participating in Special Programs for Students When students ride in a district passenger suv, seat belts must On High School Career Day the district invites representatives be fastened at all times. from colleges and universities and other higher education Misconduct will be punished in accordance with the Student institutions, prospective employers, and military Code of Conduct; the privilege to ride in a district vehicle, recruiters to present information to interested students. including a school bus, may be suspended or revoked. VOLUNTEERS (All Grade Levels) VANDALISM (All Grade Levels) We appreciate so much the efforts of parent and grandparent The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained volunteers that are willing to serve our district and students. If fi nancial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school you are interested in volunteering, please contact the campus facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for secretary for more information and to complete an application. whom they are intended—both this year and for years to come—littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not VOTER REGISTRATION (Secondary Grade Levels Only) tolerated. Students will be required to pay for damages they A student who is eligible to vote in any local, state, or federal cause and will be subject to criminal proceedings as well as election may obtain a voter registration application at the disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code main campus offi ce. of Conduct. WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL (All Grade Levels) VIDEO CAMERAS (All Grade Levels) A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by For safety purposes, video and audio recording equipment is a parent. The school requests notice from the parent at least used to monitor student behavior on buses, disciplinary areas three days in advance so that records and documents may be (i.e. ISS, DAEP) and in common areas on campus. Students will prepared. The parent may obtain a withdrawal form from the not be told when the equipment is being used. principal’s offi ce. The principal will review the video and audio recordings On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be routinely and document student misconduct. Discipline will be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. book clearance; to the librarian to ensure a clear library Upon request of a parent of a student who receives special record; to the clinic for health records; to the school counselor education services, a staff member, or a board member, state for the last report card and course clearance; and fi nally, to law requires the district to place video and audio recording the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given equipment in a classroom in which the student spends at least to the student, and a copy will be placed in the student’s 50 percent of his or her instructional day, referred to in the law permanent record. as a selfcontained classroom. The majority of students in this A student who is 18 or older, who is married, or who has type of classroom must also be students who receive special been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor, may education services. Before the district places a video camera in withdraw without parental signature. a classroom or other setting in which your child receives special SECTION III: STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT education services, the district will provide notice to you. Please Sharyland I.S.D. takes great pride in its students and their speak directly with the principal for further information or to accomplishments. Furthermore, we are especially proud of request the installation and operation of this equipment. 39 the way our students respect themselves and their schools. It classes and school-sponsored activities. is a long-standing tradition that Sharyland students conduct The district has disciplinary authority over a student: themselves with style and character. • During the regular school day and while the student is Purpose going to and from school or a school-sponsored or school related activity on district transportation; The Student Code of Conduct is the district’s response to the • During lunch periods in which a student is allowed to leave requirements of Chapter 37 of the Texas Education Code. campus; The Code provides methods and options for managing students • While the student is in attendance at any school-related in the classroom and on school grounds, disciplining students, and activity, regardless of time or location; preventing and intervening in student discipline problems. • For any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or The law requires the district to defi ne misconduct that may—or location; must—result in a range of specifi c disciplinary consequences • When retaliation against a school employee, board including removal from a regular classroom or campus, member, or volunteer occurs or is threatened, regardless suspension, placement in a disciplinary alternative education of time or location; program (DAEP), placement in a juvenile justice alternative • When criminal mischief is committed on or off school education program (JJAEP), or expulsion from school. property or at a school-related event; This Student Code of Conduct has been adopted by the • For certain offenses committed within 300 feet of school Sharyland I.S.D. Board of Trustees and developed with the property as measured from any point on the school’s real advice of the district-level committee. This Code provides property boundary line; information to parents and students regarding standards of • For certain offenses committed while on school property conduct, consequences of misconduct, and procedures for or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related administering discipline. It remains in effect during summer activity of another district in Texas; school and at all school-related events and activities outside When the student commits a felony, as provided by Education of the school year until an updated version adopted by the Code 37.006 or 37.0081; and When the student is required board becomes effective for the next school year. to register as a sex offender. In accordance with state law, the Code shall be posted at The district has the right to search a vehicle driven to school each school campus or shall be available for review at the by a student and parked on school property whenever there offi ce of the campus principal. Additionally, the Code shall is reasonable cause to believe it contains articles or materials be available at the offi ce of the campus behavior coordinator prohibited by the district. and posted on the district’s website. Parents shall be notifi ed The district has the right to search a student’s locker or desk of any conduct violation that may result in a student being when there is reasonable cause to believe it contains articles or suspended, placed in a DAEP or JJAEP, expelled, or taken into materials prohibited by the district. custody by a law enforcement offi cer under Chapter 37 of the Education Code. Reporting Crimes Because the Student Code of Conduct is adopted by the The principal or campus behavior coordinator and other district’s board of trustees, it has the force of policy; therefore, school administrators as appropriate shall report crimes as in case of confl ict between the Code and the student handbook, required by law and shall call local law enforcement when the Code shall prevail. an administrator suspects that a crime has been committed on Please Note: The discipline of students with disabilities who campus. are eligible for services under federal law (Individuals with Required Notifi cation to Parent or Guardian. The principal or Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation other administrator shall, within a reasonable amount of time Act of 1973) is subject to the provisions of those laws. after receipt of a report from a teacher, send a copy of the SCHOOL DISTRICT AUTHORITY AND report to the student’s parents or guardian. Required Notifi cation to Principal. A teacher with knowledge JURISDICTION that a student has violated the student code of conduct shall fi le Campus Behavior Coordinator with the school principal or the other appropriate administrator As required by law, a person at each campus must be a written report, not to exceed one page, documenting the designated to serve as the campus behavior coordinator. violation. The designated person may be the principal of the campus ‘Parent’ Defi ned or any other campus administrator selected by the principal. Throughout the Code of Conduct and related discipline policies, The campus behavior coordinator is primarily responsible for the term “parent” includes a parent, legal guardian, or other maintaining student discipline. person having lawful control of the child. School rules and the authority of the district to administer discipline apply whenever the interest of the district is involved, Participating in Graduation Activities on or off school grounds, in conjunction with or independent of The district has the right to limit a student’s participation in 40 graduation activities for violating the district’s Code. • Students should give their undivided attention to the Participation might include a speaking role, as established by program. Talking is not permitted. district policy and procedures. • Applause should never be so extreme that it becomes Students eligible to give the opening and closing remarks disturbing; applauding in unison, whistling, booing, at graduation shall be notifi ed by the campus principal. shouting, or any distracting action is not permitted. Notwithstanding any other eligibility requirements, in order • Throwing of any objects is not permitted. to be considered as an eligible student to give the opening • At the high school, an approved class yell may be given or closing remarks, a student shall not have engaged in any only by the senior class at the proper time. misconduct in violation of the district’s Code resulting in an out- • Upperclassmen will be dismissed fi rst, followed by each of-school suspension, removal to a DAEP, or expulsion during lower class level in descending order. the semester immediately preceding graduation. Education Resource Offi cers on Campuses The valedictorian and salutatorian may also have speaking At the secondary level, Sharyland I.S.D. employs the services roles at graduation. No student shall be eligible to have such of Mission police offi cers or deputies from the Hidalgo County a speaking role if he or she engaged in any misconduct in Sheriff’s Offi ce who are on campus full-time throughout the violation of the district’s Code resulting in an out-of-school day. These offi cers are considered staff members but have suspension, removal to a DAEP, or expulsion during the semester the same authority as any police offi cer or deputy within their immediately preceding graduation. legal jurisdiction. See DAEP—Restrictions during Placement on page 56, for information regarding a student assigned to DAEP at the time Identifi cation Cards of graduation. At the secondary level, students must have their I.D. cards readily available while on school premises or any school STANDARDS FOR STUDENT CONDUCT sponsored event. I.D. cards are not to be defaced. A student Each student is expected to: who is not carrying his/her I.D. may be issued a detention. • Demonstrate courtesy, even when others do not. If a student is persistently in violation of I.D. policy, ISS may • Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising result. A student may obtain a temporary I.D. before 8:00 a.m. self-discipline. without a penalty; however, this may occur only three times • Attend all classes, regularly and on time. during the fall term and three times during the spring term. The • Prepare for each class; take appropriate materials and school provides the original I.D. card and clip. An additional assignments to class. I.D. card costs $5.00 and a replacement clip costs fi fty cents. • Meet district and campus standards of grooming and Visitors dress. No students may bring visitors to school. All others with business • Obey all campus and classroom rules. at Sharyland schools must check in at the offi ce. Parents are • Respect the rights and privileges of students, teachers, always welcome, but they may not expect a teacher to leave and other district staff and volunteers. class to see them. However, they may set up an appointment • Respect the property of others, including district property with the school offi ce staff to see a teacher during the teacher’s and facilities. conference period. • Cooperate with and assist the school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline. General Guidelines When Imposing Discipline • Adhere to the requirements of the Student Code of Conduct. The district’s objective is to educate students. • Discipline shall be administered only when necessary to Assemblies (Pep Rallies) protect students, school employees or property, or to Assemblies and pep rallies are events in which the students as maintain essential order and discipline. a whole show their spirit and support of the school. At all times • Disciplinary action should not be “punitive”, but should student behavior should be refi ned and courteous; a student’s be designed to correct the misconduct of the individual conduct in assemblies must meet the same standard as in the student and to promote compliance of all students with classroom. An indication of the cultural level of a school is the district rules and regulations. conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are • Students shall be treated fairly and equitably. present or not, each student is personally responsible for the • Discipline shall be based upon a careful assessment of impression made by the school as a whole. Students and faculty the circumstances of each case, i.e., the seriousness of the members are required to attend all scheduled assemblies and offense, the student’s age, and the frequency of misconduct. pep rallies unless they have made previous arrangements with It is impossible for the trustees and administrators of Sharyland the principal. Students will be in assigned sections. I.S.D. to anticipate and address every possible violation of There is certain conventional behavior which is expected in good conduct in which a student may engage. Therefore, an public gatherings that exhibits style and pride in our student administrator may use his/her judgment in certain situations populations. which are not specifi cally addressed in policy, but, nevertheless, 41 constitute a breach of good behavior, and assign reasonable • Leave school grounds or school-sponsored events without consequences for such conduct. permission. Gangs, Gang Activity, Cults, Secret Societies • Disobey rules for conduct on district vehicles. • Refuse to accept discipline management techniques as Students shall not become members or promise to become signed by a teacher or principal. members of any organization composed wholly or in part of students of public school below the rank of college or Mistreatment of Others junior college which seeks to perpetuate itself by taking in Students shall not: additional members from the students enrolled in such school • Use profanity or vulgar language or make obscene gestures. on the basis of the decision of its members, rather than upon • Fight or scuffl e. (For assault see DAEP Placement and the free choice of any student in the school to fi ll the special Expulsion) aims of the organization. Subchapter E, Penal Provisions, Fighting, inciting others to fi ght, committing physical abuse, Section 37.121 Gangs, cults, or secret societies which initiate, or threatening physical abuse is strictly forbidden. advocate, or promote activities to which threaten the safety or All participants in a fi ght will receive similar consequences well being of persons or property on school grounds or which depending upon the number of incidents in which a disrupt the school environment are harmful to the educational participant has been involved. Participants in a fi ght may program. The use of hand signals, graffi ti, or the presence of be arrested or have charges fi led as well as receive any apparel, jewelry, accessory, or manner of grooming or a school consequence. A second fi ght may result in an dress which by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark, alternative school placement. symbol, or any other attribute which indicates or implies • Threaten a district student, employee, or volunteer, membership or affi liation with such a group, presents a clear including off school property if the conduct causes a and present danger. This is contrary to the school environment substantial disruption to the educational environment. and educational objectives and creates an atmosphere in • Engage in any form of bullying, nor shall any student which unlawful acts or violations of school relations may occur. encourage or assist any other person in bullying, harassment, Incidents involving initiations, hazing, intimidations, and/or or making hit lists. Acts of bullying, harassment, or making related activities of such group affi liation which are likely to a hit list and failure to report known or planned bullying, cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation harassment or hit lists can result in criminal penalties as or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to students are well as school discipline. (See glossary for all three terms) prohibited. • Engage in conduct that constitutes sexual or gender-based Furthermore, students are prohibited from: harassment or sexual abuse, whether by word, gesture, • wearing, carrying, or displaying gang, cult, or secret or any other conduct, directed toward another person, society paraphernalia; including a district student, employee, board member, or • exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang cult, volunteer. or secret society membership; The district encourages parental and student support in • causing and/or participating in activities which threaten its efforts to address and prevent sexual harassment and the safety or well-being of persons or property on school sexual abuse in the public schools. grounds, causing and/or participating in activities which Students and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their disrupt the school environment; or questions or concerns about the expectations in this area • causing and/or participating in activities which intimidate with a teacher, counselor, principal, or the designee, who or affect the attendance of another student. serves as the district’s Title IX coordinator for students. Students must not engage in unwanted or unwelcome verbal GENERAL CONDUCT VIOLATIONS or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward The categories of conduct below are prohibited at school, another student or a district employee. This prohibition in vehicles owned or operated by the district, and at all applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any school-related activities, but the list does not include the most other sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors. severe offenses. In the subsequent sections on Out-of-School Sexual harassment may be student to student, student to Suspension, DAEP Placement, Placement and/or Expulsion for adult, or adult to student. All students are expected to Certain Offenses, and Expulsion, certain offenses that require treat other students and district employees with courtesy or permit specifi c consequences are listed. Any offense, and respect, to avoid any behaviors known to be however, may be severe enough to result in Removal from the offensive, and to stop these behaviors when asked or told Regular Educational Setting as detailed in that section. to stop. A substantiated complaint against a student will Disregard for Authority result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the nature of the offense and the Student Code of Conduct. Students shall not: The district will notify parents of all students involved • Fail to comply with directives given by school personnel in sexual harassment by student(s) when the allegations (insubordination). 42 are not minor and will notify parents of any incident of the mental health: or sexual harassment or sexual abuse by an employee. To • any activity that induces, causes, or requires a student to the greatest extent possible, complaints will be treated perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the as confi dential. Limited disclosure may be necessary to penal code. No student shall engage in any form of complete a thorough investigation. A complaint alleging hazing, nor shall any student encourage or assist any other sexual harassment by another student or sexual harassment person in hazing. Acts of hazing and failure to report or sexual abuse by a staff member may be presented by known or planned hazing can result in criminal penalties a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal as well as school discipline. or designee or with the Title IX coordinator. The parent • Cause an individual to act through the use of or threat of or other advisor may accompany the student throughout force (coercion). the complaint process. The fi rst conference with the student • Commit extortion or blackmail (obtaining money or an ordinarily will be held by a person who is not the same object of value from an unwilling person). gender as the student. The conference will be scheduled • Engage in inappropriate verbal, physical, or sexual and held as soon as possible, but no later than fi ve days conduct directed toward another person, including a after the request. The principal or Title IX coordinator will district student, employee, or volunteer. conduct an appropriate investigation which ordinarily • Record the voice or image of another without the prior will be completed within ten days. The student and/ consent of the individuals being recorded or in any way or parent will be informed if extenuating circumstances that disrupts the educational environment or invades the delay completion of the investigation. The student will not privacy of others. be required to present a complaint to a person who is the subject of complaint. Property Offenses If the resolution of the complaint is not satisfactory to the Students shall not: student or parent, the student or parent may within ten days • Damage or vandalize property owned by others. (For request a conference with the superintendent or designee. felony criminal mischief see DAEP Placement or Expulsion. • Deface or damage school property—including textbooks, Prior to or at this conference, the student and/or parent technology and electronic resources, lockers, furniture, and must submit the complaint in writing and must include: other equipment—with graffi ti or by other means. • a complete statement of the complaint, Students shall not vandalize or otherwise damage or deface • any evidence supporting the complaint, and any property, including furniture and other equipment or • a statement about how the matter should be resolved. materials belonging to or used by the school. Parents or • Engage in conduct that constitutes dating violence. (See guardians of students guilty of damaging school property glossary.) shall be liable for damages in accordance with the law • Engage in inappropriate or indecent exposure of private and Board-adopted policy. Students will be subject to body parts. criminal charges. • Participate in hazing. • Steal from students, staff, or the school. Hazing means any intentional knowing, or reckless act • Commit or assist in a robbery or theft even if it does not directed against a student, by one person or acting with constitute a felony according to the Texas Penal Code. others, that endangers the mental or physical health or (For felony robbery, aggravated robbery, and theft see safety of a student for the purpose of being initiated DAEP Placement and Expulsion) into, affi liating with, holding offi ce in, or maintaining Possession of Prohibited Items membership in any organization whose members are or Students shall not possess or use: include other students. The term includes but is not limited to the following: • fi reworks of any kind, smoke or stink bombs, or any other • any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, pyrotechnic device; beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing • a razor, box cutter, chain, or any other object used in of a harmful substance on the body. Or similar activity; a way that threatens or infl icts bodily injury to another • any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, person; exposure to the elements, confi nement, calisthenics, • a “look-alike” weapon; or other activity that subjects the student to an • an air gun or BB gun; unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects • ammunition; the mental or physical health or the safety of a student, • a stun gun; • any activity involving consumption of food, liquid, • a pocketknife or any other small knife; alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance • mace or pepper spray; that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk or • pornographic material; harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical • tobacco products; e-cigarettes, e-cigarettes products; health or the safety of a student. and any component, part, or accessory for an e-cigarette • any activity that intimidates or threatens a student with device; ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental • matches or a lighter; stress, shame, or humiliation. or that adversely affects 43 • a laser pointer for other than an approved use; or • Be under the infl uence of prescription or over-the-counter • any articles not generally considered to be weapons, drugs that cause impairment of the physical or mental including school supplies, when the principal or designee faculties. (See glossary for “under the infl uence”) determines that a danger exists. (For weapons and • Have or take prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs fi rearms see DAEP Placement and Expulsion) at school other than as provided by district policy. Possession of Telecommunications Devices Furthermore, the use of illicit drugs and unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful. No student shall possess, Students shall not display, turn on, or use an unauthorized use, transmit, or attempt to possess, use, transmit, or be under the telecommunication device including such items as pagers, infl uence of any of the following substances on school grounds or mobile phone, palm pilots, IPOD’s, portable game device’s, at a school- related activity, function, or event: MP3’s, CD Players, or any other media storage devices or • any controlled substance or dangerous drug as players between the 1st bell and closing bell of any school day. defi ned by state and federal law, without regard to Personal laptops are not allowed on campus unless approved amount, including but not limited to marijuana, any by the campus principal and Technology director. Cell phones narcotic drug, hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant, and pagers that are used, seen, or heard during classes amphetamine, or barbiturate. (including locker room areas, cafeteria, and noninstructional • alcohol or alcoholic beverage; support and outdoor areas) or during the defi ned instructional • any abusable glue, aerosol paint, or any volatile day will be confi scated and given to the appropriate school chemical substance for inhalation; or administrator. Administrators may search pictures, text or • any other intoxicant or mood-changing, mind altering, or other content of confi scated phones if inappropriate content is behavior-altering drugs, including caffeine (excluding suspected. Police offi cers may only go through phone contents coffee, tea, and soft drinks), pills, and other over-the- immediately after an arrest. Otherwise, a search warrant is counter stimulants or sedatives. The transmittal, sale, required. Students may be subjected to disciplinary action in or attempted sale of what is represented to be any these cases. Board Policy FNCE (LOCAL). Each campus has of the above listed substances is Policy FNCF(LOCAL). designated the following time frames for device pick-up: 3:30 “Use” means a student has smoked, ingested, injected, imbibed, – 4:30 p.m. Confi scated devices may only be returned to a inhaled, drunk, or otherwise taken internally a prohibited parent or guardian. The District shall not be responsible for substance recently enough that it is detectable by the student’s the loss of prohibited items being held. (Telecommunication physical appearance, actions, breath, or speech. “Under the Devices are only permissible under BYOD guidelines with Infl uence” means a student’s faculties are noticeably impaired, but teacher instruction and supervision.) the student need not be legally intoxicated. A student who uses a 1st Offense: A mandatory 24 hour waiting period and a fee drug authorized by a licensed physician through a prescription for of $15 shall be assessed to the student or parent for the return that student’s use and does not exceed the prescribed dosage shall of the device. not be considered to have violated this rule. 2nd Offense: A mandatory 48 hour waiting period and a fee of $15 shall be assessed to the student or parent for the Misuse of Technology Resources and the Internet return of the device. Students shall not: 3rd Offense AND SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES: Remaining • Violate policies, rules, or agreements signed by the student confi scated devices will be disposed of after a period of thirty or the student’s parent regarding the use of technology (30) days from the end of the school year. resourses. • Attempt to access or circumvent passwords or other Illegal, Prescription, and Over-the-Counter Drugs security-related information of the district, students, or Students shall not: employees or upload or create computer viruses, including • Possess, use, abuse, or sell seeds or pieces of marijuana in off school property if the conduct causes a substantial less than a usable amount. (For illegal drugs, alcohol, and disruption to the educational environment. inhalants see DAEP Placement and Expulsion) • Attempt to alter, destroy, or disable district technology • Possess, use, give, or sell paraphernalia related to any resources including but not limited to computers and prohibited substance. (See glossary for “paraphernalia”) • related equipment, district data, the data of others, or • Possess or sell look-alike drugs or attempt to pass items other networks connected to the district’s system, including off as drugs or contraband. • off school property if the conduct causes a substantial • Abuse the student’s own prescription drug, give a disruption to the educational environment. prescription drug to another student, or possess or be • Use the Internet or other electronic communications to under the infl uence of another person’s prescription drug threaten district students, employees, board members, or on school property or at a school-related event. (See volunteers, including off school property if the conduct glossary for “abuse”) causes a substantial disruption to the educational • Abuse over-the-counter drugs. (See glossary for “abuse”) environment. 44 • Send, post, or possess electronic messages that are abusive, • Cyber Bullying via email, Internet based web sites, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, or text messages, instant messages, or any form of illegal, including cyberbullying and “sexting,” either on electronic communication otherwise known as cyber or off school property if the conduct causes a substantial bullying is not allowed. disruption to the educational environment. • Use e-mail or websites to engage in or encourage illegal Uploading of Images Into Public Domain Internet Sites, behavior or threaten school safety including off school Internet Forums & Photography of Pupils and School property if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to Photography the educational environment. This policy is applicable to all pupils, staff, parents, visitors • Furthermore, Sharyland ISD users are expected to and any individual with access to the School, its pupils, staff, abide by the generally accepted rules of network activities and facilities. etiquette. These include, but are not limited to: For the purpose of this policy web sites should be considered • Be polite. Do not be abusive in your messages to to be in the public domain and are a publication medium. others. This includes, but is not limited to sites such as: Blogs, Wikis, • Do not swear, use vulgarities or other inappropriate MySpace and U Tube. language in your messages. Illegal activities are The up-loading of images and footage to public web forums, strictly forbidden. especially when the material can be misconstrued or considered • Do not reveal your personal address or phone inappropriate or offensive by viewers of that material may number, or those of your colleagues in Internet be in violation of State and Federal Law. Up-loading of exchanges. such material to sites and commentary made by individuals • Electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private. in forums or “chat rooms” constitutes the publication of that • System administrators have access to all mail. material and those comments become public comments which, Messages relating to, or in support of illegal if inappropriate or offensive, can lead to defamation action activities will be reported to authorities. through the courts if the conduct causes a substantial disruption Encrypted messages will not be allowed. to the educational environment. • Do not use the network in such a way that you Images of young people and inappropriate or offensive would disrupt the use of the network by others. comments on forums or on web sites may also breach State • All communications and information accessible via Child Protection laws which become a Police matter and are the Internet should be assumed to be private property. subject to severe penalties if the conduct causes a substantial • Do not send or display distasteful messages, disruption to the educational environment. pictures, and videos using vulgarities or other The publication of inappropriate or offensive remarks or inappropriate language. images and footage has lead to accusations of bullying and • Do not damage or inject viruses into computers, harassment. Cyber-bullying will be dealt with as a case of computer systems, or computer networks. “bullying” and is subject to the School’s Anti-Bullying Policy. • Do not violate copyright laws, including illegal Students shall not send or post electronic messages that are installation of copyrighted software for use on abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, district computers. damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal, including off • Using another person’s password without authorized school property if the conduct causes a substantial disruption to permission or impersonating another user on a the educational environment. computer is prohibited. All photos taken and videos made during school times or on • Do not delete, examine, copy, or modify fi les, data, school-approved activities must be sanctioned/approved by email or work belonging to others without their the most appropriate head of school or faculty coordinator. prior consent. No image (still or moving) that is, of or is representative of or • Intentionally wasting limited resources, including the purports to be of the School, its pupils and/or staff is to be use of “chain letters” and messages broadcast to uploaded to a web site or similar public domain media without mailing lists or individuals is not allowed. the express permission of the Principal or his/her designee. • Do not use district resources (computers, servers, Approval is given for staff, parents, and pupils to take photos/ network, and internet) for commercial purposes or videos during all school events unless photography is specifi cally private business. prohibited. All photographers however, are warned that taking • Revealing the personal address, Social Security inappropriate or offensive images is strictly prohibited. number, account number(s), or phone number Safety Transgressions of yourself or any other person without written Students shall not: permission from faculty or staff is prohibited. • Possess published or electronic material that is designed • Probing and scanning of network resources in an to promote or encourage illegal behavior or that could attempt to gain unauthorized access is not allowed. 45 threaten school safety. affect a student’s standing in the National Honor Society. • Engage in verbal (oral or written) exchanges that threaten • Gamble. the safety of another student, a school employee, • Falsify records, passes, or other school-related documents. or school property. • Engage in actions or demonstrations that substantially • Make false accusations or perpetrate hoaxes regarding disrupt or materially interfere with school activities. school safety. • Repeatedly violate other communicated campus or • Engage in any conduct that school offi cials might classroom standards of conduct. reasonably believe will substantially disrupt the school The district may impose campus or classroom rules in addition program or incite violence. to those found in the Code. These rules may be posted in • Throw objects that can cause bodily injury or property classrooms or given to the student and may or may not constitute damage. violations of the Code. • Discharge a fi re extinguisher without valid cause. STUDENT DRESS CODE AND GROOMING School-Sponsored Publications Determination of dress code violation is at the discretion of The district’s professional employees shall exercise editorial the administration. Furthermore, administrators may conduct control over style and content of student speech in school inspections for compliance to dress code. Sharyland ISD’ s sponsored expressive activities so long as their actions are dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, instill reasonably related to legitimate instructional concerns. discipline and pride, prevent disruption, avoid safety hazards, The district may refuse to disseminate or sponsor student and teach respect for authority and self. Students should be publications that: dressed and groomed in a manner that is clean and neat, that • might reasonably be perceived to advocate drug or does not distract, and that will not be a health and safety alcohol use, inappropriate and irresponsible sexual hazard to themselves or others. The dress code prohibits any behavior, or conduct otherwise inconsistent with the shared clothing or grooming that in the administration’s judgment may values of a civilized social order; reasonably be expected to cause disruption of or interference • are inappropriate for the level of maturity of the readers; with normal school operations. The district forbids pictures, • do not meet the standards of the professional employees emblems, or writings that are lewd, offensive, vulgar, obscene who supervise the production of the publication; and or that depict a negative connotation; that advocate violence • can be reasonably interpreted to associate the school with or gang activity; or that promote tobacco products, alcoholic any position other than neutrality. beverages, drugs, or any other prohibited substance. The Non School-Sponsored Publications student and parent may determine the student’s personal dress This district’s campuses shall not be used for distribution of any and grooming standards provided that they comply with these materials over which the district or campus principal’s do not general guidelines and the district’s dress code for students exercise control. Distribution of written materials over which the specifi ed below. Policy FNCA(LOCAL) district does not exercise control may be restricted. If the administration concludes that a student’s grooming, manner of dress, or accessories violate the dress code, the Prior Review of Non-School Materials. All written material student will be given the opportunity to correct the problem at over which the school does not exercise control that is intended school. If the problem cannot be corrected, the student will be for distribution to students must be submitted for prior review assigned to in-school suspension for the remainder of the day to the building principal. or until a parent or designee brings an acceptable change Miscellaneous Offenses of clothing to school. Repeated offenses may result in more Students shall not: serious disciplinary action. Appropriate discipline procedures • Violate dress and grooming standards as communicated will be following in all cases. Styles and fads come and go. in the student handbook. It would be impossible to anticipate all changes before they • Cheat or copy the work of another. appear in students’ dress and grooming and to incorporate Plagiarism, the use of another person’s original ideas them in the dress code. It is, therefore, at the discretion of the or writings as one’s own without giving credit to the true administration to adapt the dress code at any time to these author, will be considered cheating, and the student will changes. The administration, in cooperation with a sponsor be subject to academic discipline that may include loss of or other person in charge of an extracurricular activity, may credit for the work in question. Teachers having reason regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate to believe a student has engaged in cheating or other in the activity. Students who violate these standards may be academic dishonesty will determine the academic penalty removed or excluded from the activity for a period of time to be assessed. The use of academic penalties is not determined by the principal or sponsor and may be subject to governed by the policies pertaining to student discipline, other disciplinary actions. Dress code rules are in effect any but students and parents may appeal the teacher’s time a student is on school property or at a school function and decision, using the student complaint policy. Dishonesty will come under Level II discipline unless violations are persistent. 46 Boys 21. No military style clothing is allowed. 1. Hair length must pass a three way test. The test involves 22. Trench coats, dusters, and overcoats are not allowed. the length of hair not extending below the eyebrows 23. Outlandish or distracting jewelry or accessories are not when lightly pulled down, below the earlobes and must allowed. not extend below the top of a buttoned down dress shirt 24. Proper undergarments must be worn. No pajama type collar. clothing is allowed. 2. Sideburns must be kept trimmed and should not extend 25. Pants or other garments of any type with words or letters below the earlobe. Sideburns should not exceed 1/2 inch written across the seat are not permitted. in width. Girls 3. Mustaches and beards are not permitted. 1. The length of any skirt or dress cannot be more than two 4. Extreme, outlandish, or distracting hairstyles or coloration inches above the top of the kneecap, nor may slits in clothing is not permitted. Some examples of such styles are extend two inches above the knee. Mohawks, spikes, tails, razor lines, white walls with long 2. Skorts are not permitted in grades 7-12. hair in back, or completely shaven head. When in question, 3. Leggings, jeggings and form-fi tting athletic wear are not determination of hair-style violations is at the discretion of allowed in grades 3-6 unless worn with a top, blouse, skirt, the campus administrators. It is obvious that hair cannot or dress that extends to the tips of their fi ngertips. grow overnight; therefore, if the hair style is not acceptable 4. Leggings, jeggings and form-fi tting athletic wear are not at the secondary level, the student will be placed in ISS until allowed in grades 7-12. the hair grows to an adequate length or until the hair style 5. Sleeveless blouses or tee-shirts are permitted as long as is made acceptable. entire shoulder is covered and undergarments are not 5. Sleeveless shirts are not permitted. visible. Halter tops, tank tops, or revealing or form-fi tting 6. No earrings, nose studs, or body parts piercing are to be tops are not allowed. worn or displayed on school premises or at school-sponsored 6. No bare midriffs are allowed (whether student is in sitting events. This includes string, plastic studs, etc. which are used or standing position or with raised arm) even if covered by to keep the pierced hole open. another piece of clothing such as a sweater or a jacket. 7. Chains attached to the waistline are not permitted. 7. Backless dresses, halter tops, tank tops, revealing or 8. All shirts must be fully tucked in. formfi tting tops, or dresses with spaghetti straps are not 9. Shoes which are noisy or present a safety concern are not allowed. allowed. Steel-toed footwear and shoes with wheels are 8. Proper undergarments must be worn. No pajama type not allowed. clothing is allowed. 10. Hats, caps, hoods, sweatbands, headbands, or bandannas 9. Chains attached to the waistline are not permitted. are not permitted. 10. All shirt tails (even on shirts [such as fl annel shirts with or 11. Sunglasses are not permitted in buildings. without lining] worn over other shirts) will be fully tucked in. 12. No student shall wear any garment or piece of clothing which Only blouses that complement skirt or pants may be worn advertises, promotes, or depicts the following: alcoholic untucked. Oversized, ill-fi tting, or revealing shirts/tops are beverages, tobacco products, illegal drugs, obscenities or not permitted. anything of a sexual nature, violence, heavy metal groups, 11. Shoes which are noisy or present a safety concern are not cults, gangs, or anything which may be found objectionable permitted. Steel-toed footwear and shoes with wheels are in character or depicts a negative connotation. not allowed. 13. No shorts of any type are allowed in grades 7-12. PK-6 12. Hats, caps, hoods, sweat bands, or bandannas are not may wear walking shorts and sport shorts, length must be permitted. no shorter than two inches above the knee. However, no 13. Sunglasses are not permitted in buildings. boxers, or short-shorts are allowed. 14. No students shall wear any garment or piece of clothing 14. Torn or tattered clothing or torn or tattered jeans that show which advertises, promotes, or depicts the following: skin or undergarments are not allowed. alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, illegal drugs, 15. Straps on overalls must be properly fastened. obsceni- ties or anything of a sexual nature, violence, heavy 16. No visible tattoos or make-up is allowed. metal groups, cults, gangs, or anything which may be found 17. Pants must be worn at the waistline. No skin or undergarments objectionable in character. should be visible. 15. No shorts of any type are allowed in grades 7-12. PK-6 18. Warm-up pants with fasteners down the legs are not may wear walking shorts or sport shorts, length must be permitted. no shorter than two inches above the knee. However, no 19. All clothing must be worn in a proper, customary manner. boxers, or short-shorts are allowed. 20. Oversized, ill-fi tting pants and other similar articles of 16. Torn or tattered clothing or torn or tattered jeans that show clothing are not allowed. skin or undergarments are not permitted. 47 17. Straps on overalls must be properly fastened. applicable state and federal law in addition to the Student 18. No visible tattoos are allowed. Code of Conduct. To the extent any confl ict exists, state and/ 19. Pants must be worn at the waistline, so that no skin or or federal law shall prevail. undergarments are exposed. In accordance with the Education Code, a student who receives 20. Warm-up pants with fasteners down the sides are not in a special education services may not be disciplined for permitted. conduct meeting the defi nition of bullying, harassment, or 21. All clothing must be worn in a proper, customary manner. making hit lists (see glossary) until an ARD committee meeting 22. Oversized, ill-fi tting pants and other similar articles of clothing are not permitted. has been held to review the conduct. 23. No military style of clothing is allowed. In deciding whether to order suspension, DAEP placement, 24. Trench coats, dusters, and overcoats not allowed. or expulsion, regardless of whether the action is mandatory 25. Outlandish or distracting jewelry or accessories are not or discretionary, the district shall take into consideration a allowed. disability that substantially impairs the student’s capacity to 26. At the secondary level, make-up (including nail polish) appreciate the wrongfulness of the student’s conduct. shall not be outlandish, distracting, or gang or cult related. Techniques At the elementary level, neither make-up (including The following discipline management techniques may be outlandish nail polish) is allowed. used—alone, in combination , or as part of progressive 27. At the elementary level artifi cial nails (i.e. acrylic, interventions—for behavior prohibited by the Student Code of sculptured, silk, linen and fi ber wraps, or gel nails) are Conduct or by campus or classroom rules: not allowed. • Verbal correction, oral or written. 28. No body piercing, except for ears (must not be distracting), • Cooling-off time or “time-out.” is permitted. • Seating changes within the classroom or vehicles owned or 29. Extreme, outlandish, or distracting styles or hair coloration operated by the district. is not permitted. Some examples of such styles are • Temporary confi scation of items that disrupt the Mohawks, spikes, tails, razor lines, white walls with long educational process. hair in back. When in question, determination of hair-style • Rewards or demerits. violations is at the discretion of the campus administrators. • Behavioral contracts. 30. Pants or other garments of any type with words, letters or • Counseling by teachers, school counselors, or administrative symbols written across the seat are not permitted. personnel. 31. Pants in grades 7-12 must extend to mid-calf or below. No • Parent-teacher conferences. shorts of any type are allowed in grades 7-12. • Grade reductions for cheating, plagiarism, and as It is obvious that hair cannot grow overnight; therefore, if the otherwise permitted by policy. hair style is not acceptable, at the secondary level, the student • Detention, including outside regular school hours. For will be placed in ISS until the hair grows to an adequate length minor infractions of the Code of Conduct, teachers or or until the hair style is made acceptable. administrators may require students to attend detention Policy FNCA(LOCAL) either in a common detention hall or in a teacher’s DISCIPLINE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES classroom. Before assigning a student to detention, Discipline shall be designed to improve conduct and to the teacher shall inform the student of the conduct that encourage students to adhere to their responsibilities as allegedly constitutes the violation and give the student members of the school community. Disciplinary action shall draw the opportunity to explain his version (not at the time the on the professional judgment of teachers and administrators detention is issued by the teacher). When detention is and on a range of discipline management techniques, including used, suffi cient time is allowed for students and parents to restorative discipline practices. Discipline shall be correlated arrange transportation, if necessary. It is the responsibility to the seriousness of the offense, the student’s age and grade of the student to conduct himself according to school rules, level, the frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude, and he must therefore accept consequences despite missing the effect of the misconduct on the school environment, and regular transportation home or previous commitments. statutory requirements. Students who miss detention without an excuse are assigned Because of these factors, discipline for a particular offense, ISS. including misconduct in a district vehicle owned or operated by • Sending the student to the offi ce or other assigned area, the district, (unless otherwise specifi ed by law) may bring into or to in-school suspension. In-School Suspension (ISS) is a consideration varying techniques and responses. disciplinary technique permitted for misconduct found in the Students with Disabilities Student Code of Conduct. Although different from out-of- The discipline of students with disabilities is subject to school suspension and placement in a DAEP, ISS removes the student from the regular classroom. The student will be 48 marked present while attending ISS. Video cameras have 7. Eating or drinking in an undesignated area (sec.) been installed in the ISS room to ensure student safety and 8. Chewing gum or consuming food/candy proper behavior throughout the day. 9. Throwing objects or passing unauthorized notes • Assignment of school duties such as cleaning or picking up 10. Possessing uncovered textbooks litter. 11. Talking back/arguing or name calling 12. Violating the telecommunication device guidelines (fi rst • Withdrawal of privileges, such as participation in and second minor offense) extracurricular activities, eligibility for seeking and holding 13. Horseplaying/scuffl ing (not fi ghting) honorary offi ces, or membership in school-sponsored clubs 14. Spitting (without bodily contact) (elem./jr. high) and organizations. 15. Violating bus conduct/safety rules not covered elsewhere • Penalties identifi ed in individual student organizations’ extracurricular standards of behavior. Level II: • Restriction or revocation of district transportation 1. Persistent offenses from Level I (minor acts of misconduct, privileges. including repeated bus infractions) • School-assessed and school-administered probation. 2. Inappropriate use of food • Out-of-school suspension, as specifi ed in the Out-of-School 3. Inappropriate language (verbal or written) Suspension section of this Code. 4. Noncompliance with the directives; disrespectful • Placement in a DAEP, as specifi ed in the DAEP section of 5. Truancy, skipping class, leaving school/class w/o this Code. permission • Placement and/or expulsion in an alternative educational 6. Repeated tardies setting, as specifi ed in the Placement and/or Expulsion for 7. Physically contacting student creating a disruptive environment Certain Serious Offenses section of this Code. 8. Encouraging or promoting a fi ght • Expulsion, as specifi ed in the Expulsion section of this Code. 9. Violating dress code (sec.); repeated violations (elem.) • Referral to an outside agency or legal authority for 10. Creating/participating in disturbance/inappropriate criminal prosecution in addition to disciplinary measures activity imposed by the district. 11. Failing to serve detention • Other strategies and consequences as determined by 12. Abusing the use of a hall pass school offi cials. 13. Possessing lighters, matches, tobacco-less cigarettes, or tobacco-related paraphernalia DISCIPLINE MANAGEMENT PLAN 14. Possessing a laser pointer Infractions and Consequences 15. Possessing a current prescription (student’s own Infractions of Sharyland I.S.D.’s Code of Conduct are grouped medication); or possessing or using one’s own into four levels, depending upon the seriousness or persistence nonprescription drug, natural and/or homeopathic-like of offenses. substances, dietary supplements, or energy pills • Level I infractions are those which are normally handled 16. Possessing toys/nuisance items, including paintballs by the classroom teacher using the Level I Discipline 17. Violating the guidelines for telecommunication devices Management Report as a form of documentation and (third and subsequent minor offenses) that does not necessarily refl ect the student’s permanent 18. Possessing a look-alike weapon folder; 19. Violating the Responsible Use Guidelines • Level II, infractions are handled by a teacher (if 20. Telling a falsehood to an adult (not associated with an appropriate) or by an administrator; investigation) • Level III, more serious offenses taken care of by an 21. Forging or altering school records, parent notes, forms, or administrator; and other school/home communications (elem.) • Level IV, very serious offenses, often leading to alternative 22. Defacing or damaging library or classroom materials or placement or expulsion. textbooks, including removal of bar codes; defacing/ Consequences for each level include but are not necessarily damaging another’s property limited to those listed. Consequences may be applied alone 23. Possessing or using a skateboard, roller blades, shoes or in combination, depending upon the circumstances and with wheels, or other similar devices the judgment of the administrator. 24. Using or possessing visible personal entertainment devices during instructional day (high school) Level I: 25. Possessing or using a camera, video/cassette recorder, 1. Being tardy to class etc. (high school) 2. Running or making noise 26. Possessing or using a camera, radio, CD player, MP3 3. Neglecting to bring materials or work to class player, video/cassette recorder, GameBoy, or other 4. Failing to follow classroom/cafeteria rules 5. Failing to participate in classroom activities unauthorized electronic device (elem./jr. high) 6. Violating the dress code (elem.) 27. Being present in area without authorization 49 28. Cheating or copying the work of another 27. Sexual harassment (verbal or written), including stalking 29. Engaging in an act of familiarity with another and/or 28. Hazing; harassing or stalking (non sexual); bullying; inappropriate public display of affection cyberbullying 30. Loitering on school campus before or after school 29. Creating a potential health or safety hazard or a 31. Selling or soliciting for sale unauthorized merchandise situation that may result in possible injury 30. Engaging in inappropriate behavior on overnight trips 32. Posting or distributing unauthorized publications not addressed elsewhere 33. Violating parking rules/procedures (high school) 31. Gambling Level III: 32. Hacking (illegal or unauthorized entry or attempted 1. Persistent offenses from Level II, including bus infractions entry into computer system) 2. Disrupting the school environment or educational process 33. Interfering with school activities, including trespassing, 3. Using profane, vulgar, obscene, or threatening language, boycotting, and group demonstrations, falsifying a including hit lists (written or verbal); or obscene gestures “safety net” report; or making a 9-1-1 call that does not 4. Intentionally or knowingly making libelous or slanderous constitute a mandatory removable offense remarks (verbal or written) about others 34. Participating in an unauthorized organization, secret 5. Using ethnic, racial or gender-related slurs (verbal or society, or gang activity written) or inappropriate acts toward others 35. Committing extortion, coercion, or blackmail 6. Fighting 36. Tampering with a fi re extinguisher, an automated 7. Using lighters or matches external defi brillator (AED), or their storage cabinet 8. Possessing or using tobacco, e-cigarette or e-cigarette Level IV: Removals to DAEP: products, vapes 9. Using a laser pointer Mandatory Placements 10. Possessing, distributing, or using fi reworks, stink bombs, 1. False alarm/report; terroristic threat smoke bombs, other noxious chemicals, or“shock” pens 2. Conduct punishable as a felony 11. Violating the guidelines for telecommunication devices 3. Assault with bodily injury (such as taking photos/videos, uploading, cheating, etc.) 4. Marihuana or controlled substances (non-felony) 12. Possessing drug paraphernalia, aerosol paint, or fi xative 5. Dangerous drugs (non-felony) spray 6. Alcohol (non-felony) 13. Possessing ammunition 7. Abusable volatile chemicals 14. Possessing, distributing, or creating pornographic or 8. Public lewdness/indecent exposure sexually-oriented material or material that promotes 9. Retaliation against any school employee (regardless of violence or other illegal activities, including sexting 15. Possessing, distributing, or concealing a weapon not location) included as a removable or expellable offense 16. 10. Public intoxication other than alcohol, marihuana, 16. Selling, giving, or delivering to another person a non- controlled substance or dangerous drugs prescription drug; possessing or using a nonprescription 11. Possession of a device designed to propel a projectile drug other than one’s own; or possessing, transmitting, (BB-guns, pellet guns, air soft guns, slingshots, etc.) selling, attempting to sell, or exhibiting what is 12. Title V felonies or aggravated robbery (off-campus) represented to be a prohibited substance 13. Gang activity 17. Attempting to sell/purchase a prohibited substance 14. Fraternity, sorority, or secret society activity through verbal or written communication without being 15. Expellable offenses occurring on another district’s in possession property in Texas 18. Stealing or unauthorized possession of another person’s property, theft; committing burglary 16. #5, #7, or #9 (below) against a student (regardless of 19. Exhibiting, delivering, using, or selling look-alike weapons location) 20. Forging or altering school records, parent notes, forms, or 17. Breach of computer security other school/home communications (sec.) 18. Registered sex offenders under court supervision 21. Assault of another student or an adult that is not a Permissive Placements removable or expellable offense 1. Persistent misbehavior at Level III 22. Vandalizing, defacing or damaging school property, 2. Felonies other than Title V felonies or aggravated robbery including non-felony graffi ti (off-campus) 23. Engaging in behavior that is illegal that does not constitute 3. Registered sex offenders not under court supervision a removable or expellable offense 24. Failing to disclose information, hiding/covering up info/ Level V: Expulsions to JJAEP evidence for self or others, committing perjury, or lying Mandatory as a witness 1. Firearm 25. Making sexual comments or engaging in sexual conduct 2. Illegal knife 26. Mooning; streaking; other forms of nudity; exposing or 3. Club attempting to expose one’s undergarments or those of 4. Prohibited weapon another (“pantsing”) 5. Aggravated assault, sexual assault, or aggravated 50 sexual assault Disruptions 6. Arson Conduct by students either in or out of class which for any 7. Murder, capital murder, or criminal attempted murder or reason - whether because of time, place, or manner of behavior capital murder - materially disrupts class work, or involves substantial disorder 8. Indecency with a child or invasion of the rights of others is prohibited. Student 9. Aggravated kidnapping demonstrations and similar activities will be prohibited when 10. Aggravated robbery 11. Manslaughter there is evidence which may reasonably lead school authorities 12. Criminally negligent homicide to forecast substantial disruption of, or material interference 13. Continuous sexual abuse of young child or children with, normal school operations or approved school activities. 14. Marihuana or controlled substances (felony) The evidence must support a “reasonable forecast of 15. Dangerous drugs (felony) substantial disruption” of school operations; “undifferentiated 16. Alcohol (felony) fear” or mere apprehension of disturbance are not suffi cient 17. Retaliation against an employee or volunteer (regardless to justify restrictions on students’ otherwise legitimate right to of location involving #1-15 above) freedom of expression. Permissive Notifi cation 1. Serious misbehavior while placed in a DAEP (by statute) The campus behavior coordinator shall promptly notify a 2. Assault against an employee or a volunteer (on campus student’s parent by phone or in person of any violation that or within 300’) 3. Deadly conduct (on campus or within 300’) may result in in-school or out-of-school suspension, placement 4. Retaliation against an employee or volunteer (regardless in a DAEP, placement in a JJAEP or expulsion. The campus of location) behavior coordinator shall also notify a student’s parent if the 5. Criminal mischief (felony) student is taken into custody by a law enforcement offi cer under 6. #5, #7, or #9 (above) against a student (off-campus) the discipli-nary provisions of the Education Code. A good 7. Expellable offenses occurring on another district’s faith effort shall be made on the day the action was taken property in Texas to provide to the student for delivery to the student’s parent 8. Title V felonies or aggravated robbery under 37.0081 written notifi cation of the disciplinary action. If the parent has Consequences for Level I, II, and III not been reached by telephone or in person by 5:00 p.m. of 1. Fine assessed the fi rst business day after the day the disciplinary action was 2. Verbal reprimand taken, the campus behavior coordinator shall send written 3. “Timeout” in the classroom notifi cation by U.S. Mail. If the campus behavior co-ordinator 4. Confi scation of item is not able to provide notice to the parent, the principal or 5. Behavioral contracts designee shall provide the notice. 6. Loss of privilege(s) Before the principal or appropriate administrator assigns a 7. Telephone call/note to parent or conference student under 18 to detention outside regular school hours, 8. Change of seat assignment notice shall be given to the student’s parent to inform him or 9. Grade penalty for copying or cheating (zero) her of the reason for the detention and permit arrangements 10. Correct dress code violation for necessary transportation. 11. Restitution of damages/restoring to order Appeals 12. Exclusion from extracurricular activities Questions from parents regarding disciplinary measures should 13. Withdrawal or restriction of bus privileges; bus probation be addressed to the teacher or campus administration, or 14. Detention, including Saturday detention campus behavior coordinator, as appropriate. Appeals or 15. Temporary removal from class complaints regarding the use of specifi c discipline management 16. Overnight suspension techniques should be addressed in accordance with policy 17. In-school suspension FNG(LOCAL). A copy of the policy may be obtained from the 18. Out-of-school suspension principal’s offi ce, the campus behavior coordinator’s offi ce, or the central administration offi ce or through Policy On Line at Consequence at all Levels the following address: htpp://www.sharylandisd.org School offi cials shall notify local law enforcement authorities any Consequences shall not be deferred pending the outcome of time it is suspected that a criminal act occurred on school or District a grievance. property or at a schoolsponsored or school-related event. These individuals also have the authority to involve law enforcement in any discipline or campus situation where it is deemed necessary. 51 52 Removal from the School Bus if the student engages in be-havior that under the Education A bus driver may refer a student to the principal’s offi ce or Code requires or permits the student to be placed in a DAEP the campus behavior coordinator’s offi ce to maintain effective or expelled. When removing for those reasons, the procedures discipline on the bus. The principal or campus behavior in the subsequent sec-tions on DAEP or expulsion shall be coordinator must employ additional discipline management followed. techniques, as appropriate, which can include restricting or Returning Student to Classroom revoking a student’s bus riding privileges. When a student has been formally removed from class by a Since the district’s primary responsibility in transporting teacher for conduct against the teacher containing the elements students in district vehicles is to do so as safely as possible, the of assault, aggravated assault, sexual assault, aggravated operator of the vehicle must focus on driving and not have his sexual assault, murder, capital murder, or criminal attempt or her attention distracted by student misbehavior. Therefore, to commit murder or capital murder, the student may not be when appropriate disciplinary management techniques fail to returned to the teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent. improve student behavior or when specifi c misconduct warrants When a student has been formally removed by a teacher for immediate removal, the principal or the campus behavior any other conduct, the student may be returned to the teacher’s coordinator may restrict or revoke a student’s transportation class without the teacher’s consent, if the placement review privileges, in accordance with law. committee determines that the teacher’s class is the best or REMOVAL FROM THE REGULAR EDUCATIONAL SETTING only alternative available. In addition to other discipline management techniques, OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION misconduct may result in removal from the regular educational setting in the form of a routine referral or a formal removal. Misconduct Routine Referral Students may be suspended for any behavior listed in the Code as a general conduct violation, DAEP offense, or expellable offense. A routine referral occurs when a teacher sends a student Process to the campus behavior coordinator’s offi ce as a discipline State law allows a student to be suspended for no more than management technique. The campus behavior coordinator three school days per behavior violation, with no limit on the shall employ alternative discipline management techniques, number of times a student may be suspended in a semester or including progressive interventions. A teacher or administrator school year. may remove a student from class for a behavior that violates Before being suspended a student shall have an informal this Code to maintain effective discipline in the classroom. conference with the campus behavior coordinator or Formal Removal appropriate administrator, who shall advise the student of A teacher may also initiate a formal removal from class if: the conduct of which he or she is accused. The student shall 1. The student’s behavior has been documented by the be given the opportunity to explain his or her version of the teacher as repeatedly interfering with the teacher’s ability incident before the administrator’s decision is made. to teach his or her class or with the student’s classmates’ The number of days of a student’s suspension shall be ability to learn; or determined by the campus behavior coordinator, but shall not 2. The behavior is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that the exceed three school days. teacher cannot teach, and the students in the classroom In deciding whether to order out-of-school suspension, the cannot learn. campus behavior coordinator shall take into consideration: Within three school days of the formal removal, the campus 1. Self-defense (see glossary), behavior coordinator or appropriate administrator shall schedule 2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged in a conference with the student’s parent; the student; the teacher, in the conduct, the case of removal by a teacher; and any other administrator. 3. The student’s disciplinary history, or At the conference, the campus behavior coordinator or 4. A disability that substantially impairs the student’s capacity appropriate administrator shall inform the student of the to appreciate the wrongfulness of the student’s conduct. misconduct for which he or she is charged and the consequences. The appropriate administrator shall determine any restrictions The student shall have an opportunity to give his or her version on participation in school-sponsored or school-related of the incident. extracurricular and cocurricular activities. When a student is removed from the regular classroom by a DISCIPLINARY ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION teacher and a conference is pending, the campus behavior coordinator or other administrator may place the student in: PROGRAM (DAEP) PLACEMENT • Another appropriate classroom The DAEP shall be provided in a setting other than the student’s • In-school suspension regular classroom. An elementary school student may not be • Out-of-school suspension placed in a DAEP with a student who is not an elementary • DAEP school student. • SAPS Program For purposes of DAEP, elementary classifi cation shall be A teacher or administrator must remove a student from class kindergarten–grade 6 and secondary classifi cation shall be 53 grades 7–12. secret society, including participating as a member or Summer programs provided by the district shall serve students pledge, or soliciting another person to become a pledge assigned to a DAEP separately from those students who are or member of a public school fraternity, sorority, secret not assigned to the program. society, or gang. (See glossary) A student who is expelled for an offense that otherwise would • involvement in criminal street gang activity. (See glossary) have resulted in a DAEP placement does not have to be placed • any criminal mischief, including a felony. in DAEP in addition to the expulsion. • Assault (no bodily injury) with threat of imminent In deciding whether to order placement in a DAEP, regardless bodily injury. of whether the action is mandatory or discretionary, the • Assault by offensive or provocative physical contact. campus behavior coordinator shall take into consideration: • six or more referrals to the offi ce for Level Two or higher 1. Self-defense (see glossary), offenses of school policy; 2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged • continued serious infractions (Level Three or Four) after having in the conduct, returned from an alternative education program placement; 3. The student’s disciplinary history, or • serious interruption of class(es) or school activity; 4. A disability that substantially impairs the student’s • very offensive language against staff; capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness of the student’s • vicious fi ghting; assault, or second fi ght; conduct. • posing a serious threat of harm or injury to others; The district shall provide an alternative education program that: • using, exhibiting, or possessing a weapon not addressed 1. is provided in a setting other than a student’s regular under mandatory expulsion; classroom; • destruction or serious vandalism of school property or the 2. is located on or off of a regular school campus; property of others; 3. provides for the students who are assigned to the • theft of school property or the property of others; alternative education program to be separated from three or more complaints (per school year) regarding students who are not assigned to the program; misconduct or lack of cooperation while assigned to 4. focuses on English language arts, mathematics, science, inschool suspension; history, and self-discipline; • refusal to attend in-school suspension program or 5. provides for students’ educational and behavioral needs; unauthorized leaving of in-school suspension room; and • possession of drug paraphernalia; 6. provides supervision and counseling. • abuse of any inhalable substance; or SAPS (Substance Abuse Prevention Services) Program • acts of lewdness or indecency; In addition, the SAPS Program is a 40-school day (8-week) • other actions or offenses which are of such a serious intervention program for students in grades 8-12 who have nature as to warrant placement in the alternative committed a drug or alcohol offense while on campus or at an education program. event of Sharyland ISD. Students are identifi ed as candidates Note: The offenses listed in the above section are considered based on a review of past discipline infractions as well as so serious as to warrant placement in AEP under local rules. fi rst time offenders. Once a student has been selected for The legislature did not limit a district’s right to adopt its own the program, the student and parent must agree to program discretionary reasons for AEP placement. (Education Code expectations. Placement into the SAPS Program is at is at the 37.001[a][2]) discretion of the DAEP administrator. A student removed to an alternative education program shall Note: Students with Disabilities be prohibited from attending or participating in a school- Notwithstanding any of the above provisions on REMOVAL sponsored or school-related activity. FOR CERTAIN CONDUCT, the placement of a student with a A transferring student’s AEP placement may be continued if a disability who receives special education services may be made student placed in an alternative education program in a sending only by a duly constituted Admission, Review, and Dismissal school district enrolls in the district before the expiration of the committee. “Placement” in this code refers to any change in period of placement, the district may continue the alternative a student’s IEP lasting more than ten consecutive school days. education program placement under the terms of the order or may allow the student to attend regular classes without Discretionary Placement: Misconduct That May completing the period of placement. Result in DAEP Placement In accordance with state law, a student may be placed in a A student may be placed in a DAEP for behaviors prohibited in DAEP if the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee has the General Conduct Violations section of this Code. reasonable belief (see glossary) that the student has engaged Misconduct Identifi ed in State Law in conduct punishable as a felony, other than aggravated In accordance with state law, a student may be placed in a robbery or those listed as offenses involving injury to a person DAEP for any one of the following offenses: in Title 5 (see glossary) of the Texas Penal Code, that occurs • involvement in a public school fraternity, sorority, or off school property and not at a school-sponsored or school- 54 related event, if the student’s presence in the regular classroom or a felony listed under Title 5 (see glossary) of the Texas threatens the safety of other students or teachers or will be Penal Code when the conduct occurs off school property detrimental to the educational process. and not at a school-sponsored or school-related The campus behavior coordinator may, but is not required to, event and: place a student in a DAEP for off-campus conduct for which 1. The student receives deferred prosecution (see glossary), DAEP placement is required by state law if the administrator 2. A court or jury fi nds that the student has engaged does not have knowledge of the conduct before the fi rst in delinquent conduct (see glossary), or anniversary of the date the conduct occurred. 3. The superintendent or designee has a reasonable belief Mandatory Placement: Misconduct That Requires (see glossary) that the student engaged in the conduct. DAEP Placement Sexual Assault and Campus Assignments A student must be placed in a DAEP if the student: If a student has been convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a • Engages in conduct relating to a false alarm or report young child or children or convicted of or placed on deferred (including a bomb threat) or a terroristic threat involving adjudication for sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault a public school. (See glossary) against another student on the same campus, and if the victim’s • Commits the following offenses on school property or parent or another person with the authority to act on behalf of within 300 feet of school property as measured from any the victim requests that the board transfer the offending student point on the school’s real property boundary line, or while to another campus, the offending student shall be transferred attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on to another campus in the district. If there is no other campus in or off school property: the district serving the grade level of the offending student, the 1. Engages in conduct punishable as a felony. offending student shall be transferred to a DAEP. 2. Commits an assault (see glossary) under Texas Penal Emergencies Code 22.01(a)(1). In an emergency, the principal or the principal’s designee may 3. Sells, gives, or delivers to another person, or possesses, order the immediate placement of a student in a DAEP for uses, or is under the infl uence of marijuana, a controlled any reason for which placement in a DAEP may be made on a substance, or a dangerous drug (Including synthetic nonemergency basis. cannabinoids or any other type of synthetic drugs) in an amount not constituting a felony offense. A student with Process a valid prescription for low-THC cannabis as authorized Removals to a DAEP shall be made by the campus behavior by Chapter 487 of the Health and Safety Code does coordinator. not violate this provision. (School-related felony drug Conference offenses are addressed in the Expulsion section.) (See When a student is removed from class for a DAEP glossary for “under the infl uence”) offense, the campus behavior coordinator or appropriate Note: First time drug and alcohol offenders may be administrator shall schedule a conference within three eligible for placement in the SAPS Program in lieu of a school days with the student’s parent, the student, and the removal to an off-campus DAEP. teacher, in the case of a teacher removal. 4. Sells, gives, or delivers to another person an alcoholic At the conference, the the campus behavior coordinator or beverage; commits a serious act or offense while under appropriate administrator shall inform the student, orally the infl uence of alcohol; or possesses, uses, or is under or in writing, of the reasons for the removal and shall give the infl uence of alcohol, if the conduct is not punishable the student an explanation of the basis for the removal and as a felony offense. (School-related felony alcohol an opportunity to respond to the reasons for the removal. offenses are addressed in the Expulsion section.) Following valid attempts to require attendance, the district 5. Behaves in a manner that contains the elements of an may hold the conference and make a placement decision offense relating to abusable volatile chemicals. regardless of whether the student or the student’s parents 6. Behaves in a manner that contains the elements of the attend the conference. offense of public lewdness or indecent exposure. • Engages in expellable conduct and is between six and Consideration of Mitigating Factors nine years of age. In deciding whether to place a student in a DAEP, regardless • Commits a federal fi rearms violation and is younger of whether the action is manda-tory or discretionary, the than six years of age. campus behavior coordinator shall take into consideration: • Engages in conduct that contains the elements of the offense 1. Self-defense (see glossary), of retaliation against any school employee or volunteer 2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged on or off school property. (Committing retaliation in the conduct, in combination with another expellable offense is 3. The student’s disciplinary history, or addressed in the Expulsion section of this Code.) 4. A disability that substantially impairs the student’s capacity • Engages in conduct punishable as aggravated robbery to appreciate the wrongfulness of the student’s conduct. 55 Placement Order campus presents a danger of physical harm to the After the conference, if the student is placed in the DAEP, student or others, or the campus behavior coordinator shall write a placement 2. The student has engaged in serious or persistent order. A copy of the DAEP placement order shall be sent to misbehavior (see glossary) that violates the district’s the student and the student’s parent. Code. Not later than the second business day after the conference, Exceeds 60 Days the board’s designee shall deliver to the juvenile court a For placement in a DAEP to extend beyond 60 days or copy of the placement order and all information required the end of the next grading period, whichever is sooner, a by Section 52.04 of the Family Code. student’s parent shall be given notice and the opportunity If the student is placed in the DAEP and the length of to participate in a proceeding before the board or the placement is inconsistent with the guidelines included in board’s designee. this Code, the placement order shall give notice of the inconsistency. Appeals Questions from parents regarding disciplinary measures should Coursework Notice be addressed to the campus administration. Student or parent The parent or guardian of a student placed in DAEP shall appeals regarding student’s placement in a DAEP should be be given written notice of the student’s opportunity to addressed in accordance with FNG(LOCAL). A copy of this complete a foundation curriculum course in which the student policy may be obtained from the principal’s offi ce, the campus was enrolled at the time of removal and which is required behavior coordinator’s offi ce, the central administration offi ce for graduation, at no cost to the student. The notice shall or through Policy On Line at the following address: http: www. include information regarding all methods available for sharylandisd.org. completing the coursework. Appeals shall begin at Level One with the principal. Length of Placement Appeals shall begin at Level Three with the board. The duration of a student’s placement in a DAEP shall be Disciplinary consequences shall not be deferred pending the determined by the campus behavior coordinator. outcome of an appeal. The decision to place a student in a The duration of a student’s placement shall be determined on DAEP cannot be appealed beyond the board. a case-by-case basis. DAEP placement shall be correlated to Restrictions during Placement the seriousness of the offense, the student’s age and grade State law prohibits a student placed in a DAEP for reasons level, the frequency of misconduct, the student’s attitude, and specifi ed in state law from attending or participating in school- statutory requirements. sponsored or school-related extracurricular activities. The maximum period of DAEP placement shall be one calendar The district shall provide transportation to students in a DAEP. year except as provided below. For seniors who are eligible to graduate and are assigned to The district shall administer the required pre- and post- a DAEP at the time of graduation, the last day of placement assessments for students assigned to DAEP for a period of in the program shall be the last instructional day. However, 90 days or longer in accordance with established district a student must complete at least half of his/her placement in administrative procedures for administering other diagnostic DAEP to be eligible to participate in graduation ceremony or or benchmark assessments. related activities. Exceeds One Year Seniors who have completed the suspension period (as Placement in a DAEP may exceed one year when a review described above) and are reinstated to “good standing” by by the district determines that the student is a threat to the the DAEP administrator shall be allowed to participate in the safety of other students or to district employees. graduation ceremony and related graduation activities unless The statutory limitations on the length of a DAEP placement otherwise specifi ed in the DAEP placement order. do not apply to a placement resulting from the board’s Placement Review decision to place a student who engaged in the sexual A student placed in a DAEP shall be provided a review of assault of another student so that the students are not his or her status, including academic status, by the campus assigned to the same campus. behavior coordinator or the board’s designee at intervals not Exceeds School Year to exceed 120 days. In the case of a high school student, Students who commit offenses requiring placement in a the student’s progress toward graduation and the student’s DAEP at the end of one school year may be required to graduation plan shall also be reviewed. At the review, the continue that placement at the start of the next school year student or the student’s parent shall be given the opportunity to complete the assigned term of placement. to present arguments for the student’s return to the regular For placement in a DAEP to extend beyond the end of classroom or campus. The student may not be returned to the the school year, the campus behavior coordinator or the classroom of a teacher who removed the student without that board’s designee must determine that: teacher’s consent. 1. The student’s presence in the regular classroom or 56 Additional Misconduct designee, the student and the student’s parent may appeal If during the term of placement in a DAEP the student engages to the Commissioner of Education. The student may not be in additional conduct for which placement in a DAEP or returned to the regular classroom pending the appeal. expulsion is required or permitted, additional proceedings Withdrawal during Process may be conducted, and the campus behavior coordinator When a student violates the district’s Code in a way that may enter an additional disciplinary order as a result of those requires or permits the student to be placed in a DAEP and proceedings. the student withdraws from the campus behavior coordinator Notice of Criminal Proceedings before a placement order is completed, the district may The offi ce of the prosecuting attorney shall notify the district complete the proceedings and issue a placement order. If if a student was placed in JJAEP for certain offenses including the student then reenrolls in the district during the same or any felony, unlawful restraint, indecent exposure, assault, a subsequent school year, the district may enforce the order deadly conduct, terroristic threats, organized crime, certain at that time, less any period of the placement that has been drug offenses, or possession of a weapon, and: served by the student during enrollment in another district. If 1. Prosecution of a student’s case was refused for lack of the campus behavior coordinator or the board fails to issue a prosecutorial merit or insuffi cient evidence and no formal placement order after the student withdraws, the next district proceedings, deferred adjudication (see glossary), or in which the student enrolls may complete the proceedings and deferred prosecution will be initiated; or issue a placement order. 2. The court or jury found a student not guilty, or made a * Note: This appeals process does not apply to placements fi nding that the student did not engage in delinquent from offenses for which the state requires conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision, and placement of the student in a Disciplinary Alternative the case was dismissed with prejudice. Education Program. If a student was placed in JJAEP for such conduct, on receiving Newly Enrolled Students the notice from the prosecutor, the superintendent or designee The district shall continue the DAEP placement of a student who shall review the student’s placement and schedule a review enrolls in the district and was assigned to DAEP in an open with the student’s parent not later than the third day after the enrollment charter school or another district. superintendent or designee receives notice from the prosecutor. A newly enrolled student with a DAEP placement from a district The student may not be returned to the regular classroom in another state shall be placed as any other newly enrolled pending the review. student if the behavior committed is a reason for DAEP After reviewing the notice and receiving information from the placement in the receiving district. student’s parent, the superintendent or designee may continue If the student was placed in a DAEP by a school district in the student’s placement if there is reason to believe that the another state for a period that exceeds one year, this district, presence of the student in the regular classroom threatens the by state law, shall reduce the period of the placement so that safety of other students or teachers. the total placement does not exceed one year. After a review, If a student was placed in JJAEP for such conduct, on receiving however, the placement may be extended beyond a year if the notice from the prosecutor, the superintendent or designee the district determines that the student is a threat to the safety will review the student’s placement and schedule a review of other students or employees or the extended placement is in with the student’s parent not later than the third day after the the best interest of the student. superintendent or designee receives notice from the prosecutor. The student may not be returned to the regular classroom Emergency Placement Procedure pending the review. When an emergency placement occurs, the student shall be After reviewing the notice and receiving information from the given oral notice of the reason for the action. Not later than student’s parent, the superintendent or designee may continue the tenth day after the date of the placement, the student shall the student’s placement if there is reason to believe that the be given the appropriate conference required for assignment presence of the student in the regular classroom threatens the to a DAEP. safety of other students or teachers. PLACEMENT AND/OR EXPULSION FOR CERTAIN The student or the student’s parent may appeal the superintendent’s decision to the board. The student may not OFFENSES be returned to the regular classroom pending the appeal. In This section includes two categories of offenses for which the case of an appeal, the board shall, at the next scheduled the Education Code provides unique procedures and specifi c meeting, review the notice from the prosecutor and receive consequences. information from the student, the student’s parent, and the Registered Sex Offenders superintendent or designee, and confi rm or reverse the decision of the superintendent or designee. The board shall make a Upon receiving notifi cation in accordance with state law that record of the proceedings. a student is currently required to register as a sex offender, If the board confi rms the decision of the superintendent or the administration must remove the student from the regular 57 classroom and determine appropriate placement unless the delinquent conduct for conduct defi ned as aggravated court orders JJAEP placement. robbery or a Title 5 felony offense; If the student is under any form of court supervision, including • Have been charged with engaging in conduct defi ned as probation, community supervision, or parole, the placement aggravated robbery or a Title 5 felony offense; shall be in either DAEP or JJAEP for at least one semester. • Have been referred to a juvenile court for allegedly If the student is not under any form of court supervision, the engaging in delinquent conduct for conduct defi ned as placement may be in DAEP or JJAEP for one semester or the aggravated robbery or a Title 5 felony offense; or placement may be in a regular classroom. The placement may • Have received probation or deferred adjudication or not be in the regular classroom if the board or its designee have been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of determines that the student’s presence: aggravated robbery or a Title 5 felony offense. 1. Threatens the safety of other students or teachers, The district may expel the student and order placement under 2. Will be detrimental to the educational process, or these circumstances regardless of: 3. Is not in the best interests of the district’s students. 1. The date on which the student’s conduct occurred, Review Committee 2. The location at which the conduct occurred, 3. Whether the conduct occurred while the student was At the end of the fi rst semester of a student’s placement in enrolled in the district, or an alternative educational setting and before the beginning 4. Whether the student has successfully completed any court of each school year for which the student remains in an disposition requirements imposed in connection with the alternative placement, the district shall convene a committee, conduct. in accordance with state law, to review the student’s placement. The committee shall recommend whether the Hearing and Required Findings student should return to the regular classroom or remain The student must fi rst have a hearing before the board in the placement. Absent a special fi nding, the board or or its designee, who must determine that in addition to its designee must follow the committee’s recommendation. the circumstances above that allow for the expulsion, the The placement review of a student with a disability who student’s presence in the regular classroom: receives special education services must be made by the 1. Threatens the safety of other students or teachers, ARD committee. 2. Will be detrimental to the educational process, or Newly Enrolled Student 3. Is not in the best interest of the district’s students. Any decision of the board or the board’s designee under If a student enrolls in the district during a mandatory this section is fi nal and may not be appealed. placement as a registered sex offender, the district may count any time already spent by the student in a placement Length of Placement or may require an additional semester in an alternative The student is subject to the placement until: placement without conducting a review of the placement. 1. The student graduates from high school, Appeal 2. The charges are dismissed or reduced to a misdemeanor offense, or A student or the student’s parent may appeal the 3. The student completes the term of the placement or placement by requesting a conference between the board is assigned to another program. or its designee, the student, and the student’s parent. The conference is limited to the factual question of whether Newly Enrolled Students the student is required to register as a sex offender. Any A student who enrolls in the district before completing a decision of the board or its designee under this section is placement under this section from another school district fi nal and may not be appealed. must complete the term of the placement. Certain Felonies EXPULSION Regardless of whether placement or expulsion is required In deciding whether to order expulsion, regardless of whether or permitted by one of the reasons in the DAEP Placement the action is mandatory or discretionary, the campus behavior or Expulsion sections, in accordance with Education Code coordinator shall take into consideration: 37.0081, a student may be expelled and placed in either 1. Self-defense (see glossary), DAEP or JJAEP if the board or campus behavior coordinator 2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged in makes certain fi ndings and the following circumstances exist in the conduct, relation to aggravated robbery or a felony offense under Title 3. The student’s disciplinary history, or 5 (see glossary) of the Texas Penal Code. The student must: 4. A disability that substantially impairs the student’s capacity • Have received deferred prosecution for conduct defi ned to appreciate the wrongfulness of the student’s conduct. as aggravated robbery or a Title 5 felony offense; • Have been found by a court or jury to have engaged in Discretionary Expulsion: Misconduct That May Result in Expulsion 58 Any Location • Aggravated assault, sexual assault, or aggravated A student may be expelled for: sexual assault. Engaging in the following, no matter where it takes place: • Arson. (See glossary.) • Conduct that contains the elements of assault • Murder, capital murder, or criminal attempt to under Penal Code 22.01(a)(1) in retaliation commit murder or capital murder. against a school employee or volunteer. • Indecency with a child, aggravated kidnapping, • Criminal mischief, if punishable as a felony. manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, or Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of one of aggravated robbery. the following offenses against another student, without • Continuous sexual abuse of a young child or regard to where the conduct occurs: children. • Aggravated assault. • Felony drug- or alcohol-related offense. • Sexual assault. • Carrying on or about the student’s person a • Aggravated sexual assault. handgun, an illegal knife, or a club, as these terms • Murder. are defi ned by state law. (See glossary.) • Capital murder. • Possessing, manufacturing, transporting, repairing, • Criminal attempt to commit murder or capital selling a prohibited weapon, as defi ned by state murder. law. (See glossary.) • Aggravated robbery. • Possession of a fi rearm, (as defi ned by federal • Breach of computer security. law). (See glossary.) Engaging in conduct relating to a false alarm or report Property of Another District (including a bomb threat) or a terroristic threat involving a A student may be expelled for committing any public school. offense that is a state-mandated expellable At School, Within 300 Feet, or at School Event offense if the offense is committed on the property A student may be expelled for committing any of the of another district in Texas or while the student is following offenses on or within 300 feet of school property, attending a school-sponsored or school-related as measured from any point on the school’s real property activity of a school in another district in Texas. boundary line, or while attending a school-sponsored or While in DAEP school-related activity on or off school property: A student may be expelled for engaging in • Selling, giving, or delivering to another person, documented serious misbehavior that violates the or possessing, using, or being under the infl uence of district’s Code, despite documented behavioral marijuana, a controlled substance, or a dangerous interventions while placed in a DAEP. For purposes drug, if the conduct is not punishable as a felony. of discretionary expulsion from a DAEP, serious A student with a valid prescription for low-THC misbehavior means: cannabis as authorized by Chapter 487 of the 1. Deliberate violent behavior that poses a Health and Safety Code does not violate this direct threat to the health or safety of others; provision. (See glossary for “under the infl uence.”) 2. Extortion, meaning the gaining of money or • Selling, giving, or delivering to another person, other property by force or threat; or possessing, using, or being under the infl uence 3. Conduct that constitutes coercion, as defi ned of alcohol; or committing a serious act or offense by Section 1.07, Penal Code; or while under the infl uence of alcohol, if the conduct 4. Conduct that constitutes the offense of: is not punishable as a felony. a. Public lewdness under Section 21.07, • Engaging in conduct that contains the elements Penal Code; of an offense relating to abusable volatile b. Indecent exposure under Section 21.08; chemicals. Penal Code; • Engaging in conduct that contains the elements c. Criminal mischief under Section 28.03, of assault under Section 22.01(a)(1) against an Penal Code; employee or a volunteer. d. Personal hazing under Section 37.152; • Engaging in deadly conduct. (See glossary) or Within 300 Feet of School e. Harassment under Section 42.07(a)(1), A student may be expelled for engaging in the following Penal Code, of a student or district employee. conduct while within 300 feet of school property, as Mandatory Expulsion: Misconduct That Requires measured from any point on the school’s real property Expulsion boundary line: A student must be expelled for any of the following offenses that 59 occur on school property or while attending a school sponsored • Behaving in a manner that contains elements of the or school-related activity on or off school property: following offenses under the Texas Penal Code: Under Federal Law • Aggravated assault, sexual assault, or aggravated Bringing to school or possessing at school, including any sexual assault. setting that is under the district’s control or supervision for • Arson. (See glossary) the purpose of a school activity, a fi rearm, as defi ned by • Murder, capital murder, or criminal attempt to commit federal law. (See glossary.) murder or capital murder. Note: Mandatory expulsion under the federal Gun Free • Indecency with a child. Schools Act does not apply to a fi rearm that is lawfully • Aggravated kidnapping. stored inside a locked vehicle, or to fi rearms used in activities • Aggravated robbery. approved and authorized by the district when the district has • Manslaughter. adopted appropriate safeguards to ensure student safety. • Criminally negligent homicide. Mandatory Federal Requirements for Student • Continuous sexual abuse of a young child or children. • Behavior punishable as a felony that involves selling, Expulsion for Firearms giving, or delivering to another person, or possessing, In accordance with federal law, a local education agency, using, or being under the infl uence of marijuana, a including a school district, home-rule school, or open- controlled substance, a dangerous drug, or alcohol; enrollment charter school, shall expel a student who brings or committing a serious act or offense while under the a fi rearm, as defi ned by 18 U.S.C. Section 921, to school. infl uence of alcohol. The student must be expelled from the student’s regular • Engaging in retaliation against a school employee or campus for a period of at least one year, except that: volunteer combined with one of the above-listed • the superintendent or other chief administrative mandatory expulsion offenses. offi cer of the school district or of the other local educational agency, as defi ned by 20 U.S.C. Under Age Ten Section 2891, may modify the length of the When a student under the age of ten engages in behavior expulsion in the case of an individual student; and that is expellable behavior, the student shall not be expelled, • the district or other local educational agency may but shall be placed in a DAEP. A student under age six shall provide educational services to the expelled not be placed in a DAEP unless the student commits a federal student in an alternative education program as fi rearm offense. provided by Section 37.008. Emergency • The district shall report to the Texas Education In an emergency, the principal or the principal’s designee may Agency the number of students expelled under order the immediate expulsion of a student for any reason for this federal provision each year, the names of the which expulsion may be made on a nonemergency basis. schools from which the students are expelled, and the types of weapons involved. Process Under the Texas Penal Code If a student is believed to have committed an expellable offense, the campus behavior coordinator or other appropriate • Carrying on or about the student’s person the following, as administrator shall schedule a hearing within a reasonable defi ned by the Texas Penal Code: time. The student’s parent shall be invited in writing to attend • A handgun, defi ned by state law as any fi rearm the hearing. designed, made, or adapted to be used with one Until a hearing can be held, the campus behavior coordinator hand. (See glossary.) Note: A student may not be or other administrator may place the student in: expelled solely on the basis of the student’s use, • Another appropriate classroom exhibition, or possession of a fi rearm that occurs at an • In-school suspension approved target range facility that is not located on a • Out-of-school suspension school campus, while participating in or preparing for • DAEP a school-sponsored, shooting sports competition or a shooting sports educational activity that is sponsored Hearing or supported by the Parks and Wildlife Department, A student facing expulsion shall be given a hearing with or a shooting sports sanctioning organization working appropriate due process. The student is entitled to: with the department. [See policy FNCG(LEGAL).] 1. Representation by the student’s parent or another • An illegal knife, as defi ned by state law. (See adult who can provide guidance to the student and glossary.) who is not an employee of the district, • A club, as defi ned in state law. (See glossary 2. An opportunity to testify and to present evidence • Possessing, manufacturing, transporting, repairing, or and witnesses in the student’s defense, and selling a prohibited weapon, as defi ned in state law. 3. An opportunity to question the witnesses (See glossary.) 60 called by the district at the hearing. After providing notice to the student and parent of the teacher may not be coerced to consent. hearing, the district may hold the hearing regardless of Expulsion Orders Provided to Receiving School Districts whether the student or the student’s parent attends. If the district has expelled a student, and the expelled The board of trustees delegates to the Principal or the student enrolls in another school district, the district shall appropriate administrator authority to conduct hearings provide to the other school district in which the student and expel students. enrolls, at the same time other records of the student are Board Review of Expulsion provided, a copy of the expulsion order and the referral After the due process hearing, the expelled student may to the authorized offi cer of the juvenile court. request that the board review the expulsion decisions. Court-Related Children and Liaison Offi cers The student or parent must submit a written request to the superintendent within seven days after receipt of the The district shall appoint at least one educator to act as written decision. The superintendent must provide the liaison offi cer for court-related children who are enrolled student or parent written notice of the date, time, and in the district. The liaison offi cer shall provide counseling place of the meeting at which the board will review the and services for each court-related child and the child’s decision. parents to establish or reestablish normal attendance and The board shall review the record of the expulsion hearing progress of the child in the school. in a closed meeting unless the parent requests in writing Reports to Local Law Enforcement that the matter be held in an open meeting. The board Notifi cation to Law Enforcement Authorities may also hear a statement from the student or parent and The district’s principal, or a person designated by from the board’s designee. the principal, shall notify any school district police The board shall hear statements made by the parties at department and the police department of the the review and will base its decision on evidence refl ected municipality in which the school is located or, if the in the record and any statements made by the parties school is not in a municipality, the sheriff of the at the review. The board shall make and communicate county in which the school is located if the principal its decision orally at the conclusion of the presentation. has reasonable grounds to believe that any of the Consequences shall not be deferred pending the outcome following activities occur in school, on school property, of the hearing. or at a schoolsponsored or school-related activity on Court Involvement or off school property, whether or not the activity is Notice to Juvenile Court of Expulsion and Certain Types of investigated by school security offi cers: AEP Hearings. Not later than the second business day after • conduct that may constitute an offense listed under the date of hearing is held under the above “HEARINGS” Section 8(c), Article 42.18, Code of Criminal section, the district’s board of trustees, or its designee, Procedure, shall deliver a copy of the order placing a student in an • deadly conduct under Section 22.05, Penal Code; alternative education program or expelling a student and • a terroristic threat under Section 22.07, Penal any information required under Section 52.04, Family Code; Code, to the authorized offi cer of the juvenile court in the • the use, sale, or possession of a controlled county in which the student resides, for appropriate review substance, drug paraphernalia, or marihuana or juvenile court action as authorized by law. under Chapter 48.1, Health and Safety Code; Placement of Student Pending Court Disposition • the possession of any of the weapons or devices If a student is expelled, on the recommendation of the listed under Sections 46.01(1)-(14) or Section campus Placement Review Committee or on the district’s 46.01(16), Penal Code; or own initiative, the district may readmit the student • conduct that may constitute a criminal offense while the student is completing any court disposition under Section 71.02, Penal Code. requirements the court imposes. After the student has Form of Notice Required successfully completed any court disposition requirements The district’s principal or designee who makes a notifi cation the court imposes, if the student meets the requirements under this section shall include the name and address of for admission into the public schools established by law, each student the person believes may have participated in the district may not refuse to admit the student, but the the activity. The notifi cation is not required if the district’s district may place the student in the alternative education principal or designee reasonably believes that the activity program. Not withstanding any provision to the contrary does not constitute a criminal offense. The principal may relating to Placement Review Committee decision-making designate a school employee who is under the supervision authority, in this instance the student may not be returned of the principal to make the reports. to the classroom of the teacher under whose supervision Additional Notice to Employees the offense occurred without that teacher’s consent. The 61 The person who makes the notifi cation required under Subsection (a) shall also notify each instructional or requires or permits expulsion from the district and the student support employee of the school who has regular contact withdraws from the district before the expulsion hearing takes with a student whose conduct is the subject of the notice. place, the district may conduct the hearing after sending Destruction of Certain Records from Law written notice to the parent and student. Enforcement Offi cers If the student then reenrolls in the district during the same or subsequent school year, the district may enforce the expulsion Information received by the district from law enforcement order at that time, less any expulsion period that has been authorities under Article 15.27, Code of Criminal served by the student during enrollment in another district. Procedure, may not be attached to the permanent If the campus behavior coordinator or the board fails to issue academic fi le of the student who is the subject of the an expulsion order after the student withdraws, the next district report. The district shall destroy the information at the end in which the student enrolls may complete the proceedings. of the school year in which the report was fi led. Additional Misconduct Expulsion Order If during the expulsion, the student engages in additional Before ordering the expulsion, the board or campus conduct for which placement in a DAEP or expulsion is required behavior coordinator shall take into consideration: or permitted, additional proceedings may be conducted, and 1. Self-defense (see glossary), the campus behavior coordinator or the board may issue an 2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged additional disciplinary order as a result of those proceedings. in the conduct, 3. The student’s disciplinary history, or Restrictions during Expulsion 4. A disability that substantially impairs the student’s Expelled students are prohibited from being on school grounds capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness or attending school-sponsored or school-related activities of the student’s conduct. If the student is expelled, the during the period of expulsion. board or its designee shall deliver to the student and the No district academic credit shall be earned for work missed student’s parent a copy of the order expelling the student. during the period of expulsion unless the student is enrolled in Not later than the second business day after the hearing, a JJAEP or another district-approved program. the Alternative Education administrator shall deliver to Newly Enrolled Students the juvenile court a copy of the expulsion order and the The district shall continue the expulsion of any newly enrolled information required by Section 52.04 of the Family Code. If the length of the expulsion is inconsistent with the student expelled from another district or an open-enrollment guidelines included in the Student Code of Conduct, the charter school until the period of the expulsion is completed. expulsion order shall give notice of the inconsistency. If a student expelled in another state enrolls in the district, the district may continue the expulsion under the terms of Length of Expulsion the expulsion order, may place the student in a DAEP for the The length of an expulsion shall be correlated to the seriousness period specifi ed in the order, or may allow the student to of the offense, the student’s age and grade level, the attend regular classes if: frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude, and statutory 1. The out-of-state district provides the district with a copy requirements. of the expulsion order, and The duration of a student’s expulsion shall be determined on a 2. The offense resulting in the expulsion is also an expellable case-by-case basis. The maximum period of expulsion is one offense in the district in which the student is enrolling. calendar year except as provided below. If a student is expelled by a district in another state for a An expulsion may not exceed one year unless, after review, the period that exceeds one year and the district continues the district determines that: expulsion or places the student in a DAEP, the district shall 1. The student is a threat to the safety of other students or reduce the period of the expulsion or DAEP placement so that to district employees; or the entire period does not exceed one year, unless after a 2. Extended expulsion is in the best interest of the student. review it is determined that: State and federal law require a student to be expelled from 1. The student is a threat to the safety of other students or the regular classroom for a period of at least one calendar district employees, or year for bringing a fi rearm, as defi ned by federal law, to 2. Extended placement is in the best interest of the student. school. However, the superintendent may modify the length of the expulsion on a case-by-case basis. Emergency Expulsion Procedures Students who commit offenses that require expulsion at the end When an emergency expulsion occurs, the student shall be of one school year may be expelled into the next school year given verbal notice of the reason for the action. Within ten to complete the term of expulsion. days after the date of the emergency expulsion, the student will be given appropriate due process required for a student Withdrawal during Process facing expulsion. When a student has violated the district’s code in a way that 62 DAEP Placement of Expelled Students the term of any probation ordered by the juvenile court. A The district may provide educational services to any expelled juvenile board in a county with a population greater than student in a DAEP; however, educational services in the DAEP 125,000 shall establish a juvenile justice alternative education must be provided if the student is less than ten years of age. program not later than September 1, 1996. A student who engages in conduct described by Section 37.007 before the Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program date on which a juvenile justice alternative education program (High Population Counties) for the county in which the student resides begins operation Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program for Counties shall be expelled for a period not to exceed one year. with Populations Greater than 125,000. The juvenile board of a county with a population greater than Funding of Juvenile Justice Alternative Education 125,000 shall develop a juvenile justice alternative education Programs program, subject to the approval of the Texas Juvenile Transfer of Funds Probation Commission. If a student is found to have engaged in The school district in which a student is enrolled on the date conduct described by Section 37.007 and the student is found a juvenile court orders the student to attend a juvenile justice by a juvenile court to have engaged in delinquent conduct alternative education program shall transfer to the juvenile under Title 3, Family Code, the juvenile court shall: board in charge of the juvenile justice alternative education • require the juvenile justice alternative education program for the portion of the school year for which the program in the county in which the conduct occurred to juvenile justice alternative education program provides provide educational services to the student; and educational services funds equal to the district’s average per • order the student to any the program from the date student expenditure in alternative education programs. of adjudication. A juvenile justice alternative education Designated Expenditures program shall adopt a student code of conduct in Funds received under this section must be expended on juvenile accordance with Section 37.001. justice alternative education programs. A juvenile justice alternative education program must focus on Assistance in Identifying Funds English language arts, mathematics, science, history, and self- The Offi ce of State Federal Relations shall assist a local discipline. Each program will administer assessment instruments juvenile probation department in identifying additional state under Subchapter B, Chapter 39, and shall offer a high school or federal funds to assist local juvenile probation departments equivalency program. conducting educational or job training programs within juvenile A juvenile justice alternative program may be provided in justice alternative education programs. a facility owned by a school district. A school district may provide personnel and services for a juvenile justice alternative Coordination between School Districts and Juvenile education program under a contract with the juvenile board. Boards A juvenile justice alternative education program must operate The district’s board of trustees, or its designee shall at the call at least: of the president of the board of trustees regularly meet with • seven hours per day; and the juvenile board for the county in which the district’s central • 180 days per year. A juvenile justice alternative administrative offi ce is located or the juvenile board’s designee education program shall be subject to a written concerning supervision and rehabilitative services appropriate operating policy developed by the local juvenile for expelled students and students assigned to alternative justice board and submitted to the Texas Juvenile education programs. Matters for discussion shall include service Probation Commission for review and comment. A by probation offi cers at the alternative education program juvenile justice alternative program is not subject site, recruitment of volunteers to serve as mentors and provide to a requirement imposed by this title, other than a tutoring services, and coordination with other social service reporting requirement or a requirement imposed by agencies. this chapter or by Chapter 39. For purposes of accountability under Chapter 39 and the SECTION IV: EXTRACURRICULAR CODE Foundation School Program, a student enrolled in a juvenile justice alternative education program is reported as if the OF CONDUCT student were enrolled at the student’s assigned campus in the EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES student’s regularly assigned education program, including a The term “extracurricular activities” means, without limitation, special education program. A student transferred to a juvenile all interscholastic athletics, cheerleading, drill team, academic justice alternative education program must participate in the clubs, special interest clubs, musical performances, dramatic program for the full period ordered by the juvenile court unless productions, student government, and any other activity or group the student’s school district agrees to accept the student before that participates in contests, competitions, or community service the date ordered by the juvenile court. The juvenile court may projects on behalf of or as a representative of the District. not order a period of transfer under this section that exceeds The term includes any non-curricular event and membership or 63 participation in groups, clubs, and organizations recognized expectations for acceptable conduct. Students engaging in and approved by the Board of Trustees and the school district extracurricular activities represent not only themselves, but and sponsored by the district or a campus. All extracurricular also other students and the school district when performing, activity participants, including elected and appointed offi cers competing, or participating in extracurricular activities and of all campus organizations, are subject to the provisions of this while wearing uniforms or other clothing that identifi es the Extracurricular Code of Conduct. student to the community or public in any setting as Sharyland Participation in school-related activities is an excellent way for ISD students. For this reason, their behavior must be exemplary a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and refl ect the fi nest attributes of the total Sharyland ISD and build strong friendships with other students; participation, student body at all times and places. however, is a privilege, not a right. Eligibility for participation Important goals of the extracurricular program are to give in many of these activities is governed by state law and the students direction in developing self-discipline, responsibility, rules of the University Interscholastic League (UIL)—a statewide pride, loyalty, leadership, teamwork, respect for authority, and association overseeing inter-district competition. The following healthy living habits. requirements apply to all extracurricular activities governed Because participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege by state law and the rules of the UIL: and not a right, Sharyland ISD is authorized to set higher • A student who receives at the end of a grading period standards for participants of extracurricular activities than it a grade below 70 in any academic class may not would for those students who choose not to participate in these participate in extracurricular activities for at least three activities. Therefore, this Extracurricular Code of Conduct school weeks. extends beyond the Sharyland ISD Student Code of Conduct not • A high school student enrolled in an advanced only in types of behavior prohibited, but also in corresponding placement, or dual credit course in English language consequences and jurisdiction for imposing discipline. This arts, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, or Extracurricular Code of Conduct will be enforced with all a foreign language may be eligible for a UIL academic students grades 7-12 participating in extracurricular activities: eligibility waiver. (See Grading Guidelines under • regardless of whether school is in session; www.sharylandisd.org.) • regardless of whether the offense occurs on or off school • Junior high students are not eligible for a UIL academic property or at a school-related event; eligibility waiver. • regardless of whether the student is directly involved • A student with disabilities who fails to meet the with the extracurricular activity at the time the prohibited standards in the individualized education program (IEP) conduct occurs; may not participate for at least three school weeks. • regardless of whether the extracurricular activity is in- • An ineligible student may practice or rehearse with season; and other students for an extracurricular activity but • regardless of where or when the conduct occurs. may not participate in a competition or other public It is possible that a student who violates the Sharyland ISD performance. Student Code of Conduct will incur consequences from both the Extracurricular Absences appropriate school administrator and from his or her coach or A student is allowed in a school year up to 10 absences sponsor for the same particular violation. It is also possible that not related to post-district competition, a maximum of 5 a student participating in extracurricular activities could violate absences for post-district competition prior to state, and the Extracurricular Code of Conduct and be subject to discipline a maximum of 2 absences for state competition. All by a coach or sponsor without having violated the Sharyland extracurricular activities and public performances, whether ISD Student Code of Conduct. Certain performing groups or UIL activities or other activities approved by the board, are organizations such as band, cheerleading, and athletic teams subject to these restrictions. 4-H activities are considered may establish a code of conduct and consequences for behavior extracurricular only if there is a letter on fi le from a 4-H that are stricter than those described in the Extracurricular county offi cial. Code of Conduct. Refer to the constitution/bylaws/handbook An absence for participation in an activity that has not for the specifi c extracurricular activity. been approved will receive an unexcused absence. Conduct Expectations * The number of absences may be increased at the The following conduct is expected of all participants. Failure discretion of principal or designee. to meet these expectations can result in disciplinary action by JURISDICTION the coach or sponsor: Student participation in extracurricular activities is encouraged. • Student commitment to a team or organization is for Sharyland ISD makes extracurricular activities available the entire season or activity. Students are encouraged as an extension of the regular school program, with this to participate in more than one extracurricular activity; important difference: participation in the regular curriculum is however, participants will not be allowed to quit one activity a right afforded to each student, while participation in the during active season in order to participate in another activity extracurricular program is a privilege that carries additional unless both sponsors are in agreement. Final decisions will be 64 approved by the appropriate administrator/director. arrest and/or citations from law enforcement offi cers; • Students who participate in extracurricular activities • inappropriate touching including “public display of that involve competition among schools and school districts affection” will conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner at all • sexual gestures, or exposing parts of the body that are times. This includes behavior toward visiting teams or ordinarily covered up in public; hosting teams as well as the opponent’s fans. Sharyland • inappropriate behavior in public places. ISD participants will be noted for clean, tough, competitive play. Praise your opponents and play beyond your ability. Procedures Exemplify “Rattler Pride”! The principal/designee will determine whether an • Students should arrive to practices (including workouts), Extracurricular Code of Conduct violation has occurred. meetings, and events on time and prepared. Upon determination of an Extracurricular Code of Conduct • Students who cannot be present for a practice (including violation, the following individuals as appropriate will be notifi ed: workouts), meeting, or event should call the coach, sponsor, • the principal or designee; team captain, or club president as soon as they are aware • the student and the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s); that they will be absent. Missed practices, meetings, or • the appropriate school counselor to provide counseling, workouts will be made-up; however, disciplinary action support, and guidance in dealing with issues associated may still be taken. with alcohol, drugs, mood-altering chemicals, and other • Injured or ill students who are unable to participate, but prohibited activities. are able to attend a practice (including workouts), meeting Nothing in this Extracurricular Code of Conduct limits the or event are required to dress appropriately and sit or authority of a coach or sponsor to impose reasonable stand with the rest of the group. sanctions, including extra workouts, for students who breach • Students are required to show respect at all times to all team or organization conduct expectations but do not engage school personnel, teammates, opponents, offi cials and fans. in prohibited conduct. Students should follow the rules promulgated in the Sharyland Disciplinary Action ISD Student Code of Conduct. Failure to do so may result Principal/designee will review all the facts and circumstances in additional disciplinary measures related to the student’s surrounding a particular violation and impose appropriate participation in extracurricular activities as determined by the disciplinary action. Staff will strive for consistency in meeting coach or sponsor. out punishment for Extracurricular Code of Conduct violations, Prohibited Conduct but will also exercise sound professional discretion. Violation Sharyland ISD students who participate in extracurricular of any of the above-mentioned rules by a student participating activities are prohibited at all times from: in extracurricular activities will be subject to the following • possessing, smoking, selling, or using tobacco products; disciplinary action: • possessing or using drug paraphernalia; • suspension from participation in all extracurricular • possessing, selling, or delivering to another person activities for up to 18 weeks. look-alike drugs or items represented to be drugs or • removal from participation in all extracurricular activities. contraband of any kind; • removal from offi ce in the case of a student offi ce holder • possessing, selling, giving, delivering to another person, who commits an offense using, or being under the infl uence of marijuana, alcohol, At the high school level, the principal will not ordinarily interfere a controlled substance, or any dangerous drug; in a coach or sponsor’s judgment regarding appropriate • engaging in conduct that contains the elements of an discipline but has the authority to increase or decrease the offense relating to glue, aerosol paint, or volatile, punishment based on his or her assessment of the situation. At mood-altering chemicals; the junior high level, the consequence will be determined by • engaging in persistent or serious misbehavior, as defi ned the principal or designee. in the Sharyland ISD Student Code of Conduct; Insurance for Students in Extracurricular Activities • stealing; Sharyland ISD is not responsible for injuries of its students • intentional conduct that causes injury or harm to persons who are participating in extracurricular activities. However, or property; Sharyland ISD will carry insurance covering participation in • using profanity, lewd or vulgar language, or obscene extracurricular activities. The coverage for each injury will gestures; vary according to the accident. More detailed information • scuffl ing or fi ghting; can be obtained by calling the Sharyland ISD. We will answer • cheating or plagiarizing; any questions you have concerning our athletic program of • cheating on high level exams; insurance and injuries. • participating in inappropriate behavior recorded or transmitted on any electronic media or the internet; the effective consent of the owner. The markings may include • any conduct resulting in the district being notifi ed of an inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings. 65 ADOPTED: January 19, 2016 UIL Approved: 2016-2017 SHARYLAND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT CALENDAR 1ST Semester ( 81 Days) 2nd Semester ( 91 Days) August 2016 February 2017 M TU W TH F REPORTING PERIODS DAYS M TU W TH F 1ST Progress Report (09/09/16) 12345Reporting Period 1 (09/30/16) 29 123 8 9 10 11 12 2ND Progress Report (10/21/16) 678910 Reporting Period 2 (11/04/16) 24 15 16 17 18 19 3RD Progress Report (12/02/16) 13 14 15 16 17 22 23 24 25 26 Reporting Period 3 (12/21/16) 28 20 21 22 23 24 Semester 1 81 29 30 31 27 28 4TH Progress Report (01/27/17) Reporting Period 4 (02/17/17) 30 September 2016 5TH Progress Report (03/10/17) March 2017 M TU W TH F Reporting Period 5 (04/07/17) 29 M TU W TH F 6TH Progress Report (05/01/17) 12Reporting Period 6 (05/25/17) 32 123 56789 Semester 2 91 678910 12 13 14 15 16 Total School Days 172 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 Preparation/In-service Days 15 20 21 22 23 24 Total Days 187 26 27 28 29 30 STUDENT HOLIDAYS DATES 27 28 29 30 31 Labor Day 9/5 October 2016 Thanksgiving 11/21-11/25 April 2017 M TU W TH F Winter Break 12/22-1/6 M TU W TH F Spring Break 3/13 – 3/17 34567Easter 4/14 – 4/17 34567 10 11 12 13 14 Bad Weather Days 10/10, 2/20 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 In-service Days 8/11 - 8/18, 1/6, 4/17 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 Planning/Prep Days8/10,8/19,9/5,1/5,5/26 24 25 26 27 28 31 Equivalency Days 11/21, 11/22 State Testing Days in green End of Grace Period Highlighted in blue November 2016 ______May 2017 M TU W TH F CODES M TU W TH F 1234 New Staff Inservice 12345 7891011 Student Holiday 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 Reporting Period Begins 15 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 24 25 Reporting Period Ends 22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 Staff In-service Days 29 30 31 Staff Planning/Prep Days December 2016 Bad Weather Days June 2017 M TU W TH F Early Release Days M TU W TH F 12 Equivalency Days 12 56789 56789 12 13 14 15 16 HB 2610 – Reporting of Minutes 12 13 14 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 TERM JHS/HS ELEM 19 20 21 22 23 Reporting Pd 1 13,920 13,050 26 27 28 29 30 Reporting Pd 2 11,520 10,800 26 27 28 29 30 Reporting Pd 3 13,200 12,390 January 2017 Reporting Pd 4 14,400 13,500 July 2017 M TU W TH F Reporting Pd 5 13,920 13,050 M TU W TH F 23456Reporting Pd 6 15,120 14,190 34567 TOTAL 82,080 76,980 910111213 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 JHS/HS – 8am – 4pm = 480 mins per day 17 18 19 20 21 23 24 25 26 27 Elem – 8am – 3:30pm = 450 mins per day 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 Half Days = 240 mins 31