JAHS Student Handbook New for 2015 2016

“Responsibility, Opportunity, Accessibility, Flexibility”

Dear Students,

Jonathan Alder High School will provide all students with an “excellent” academic education and a wide array of extra-curricular opportunities. Our ideals presented in the Pioneer Pledge emphasize developing the entire individual – intellectually, socially, ethically, artistically, and physically. To make your high school years the best they can be, a handbook has been assembled to answer questions that you might have concerning the operation of the school. Student expectations, rules and regulations, bell schedules, etc., are included in the pages that follow. Your cooperation in complying with these guidelines would be greatly appreciated. Remember, it is your school and how it operates depends directly on you and your fellow students. Do your part to enable Jonathan Alder High School to be the best it can be and you will have the best four years of your life.

Sincerely,

Mike Aurin Principal

Mark Fenik Assistant Principal

Tom Vargo Athletic Director

ACTIVITIES ...... 6

ATHLETICS ...... 6

ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION/CONCUSSIONS ...... 6

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY CODE OF CONDUCT ...... 6

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ...... 7

EVENT BEHAVIOR ...... 7

RULES FOR PASSENGERS ON THE SCHOOL BUS ...... 7

VISITORS ...... 8

SCHOOL CLOSINGS ...... 8

GUIDANCE COUNSELOR INFORMATION ...... 8

LIBRARY ...... 8

STUDY HALL ...... 8

COMMUNICATIONS (PHONES) ...... 9

COMMUNICATIONS ( ELECTRONIC DEVICES) ...... 9

HALL PASSES/CLASS LOGS ...... 9

TEACHER EXPECTATIONS ...... 9

TEXTBOOKS ...... 9

LOCKERS ...... 10

LOST AND FOUND ...... 10

DISPLAY OF AFFECTION ...... 10

LUNCHROOM BEHAVIOR – “CLOSED LUNCH” ...... 10

2 ASSEMBLIES ...... 10

STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO LOITER IN THE PARKING LOT UPON ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL ...... 10

DRIVING TO SCHOOL ...... 11

PARKING VIOLATION ...... 11

DRIVING VIOLATION ...... 11

HALL/LOCKER SIGNS ...... 11

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURE ...... 11

ABSENCE FOLLOW-UP PROCEDURE ...... 12

VACATION PROCEDURES ...... 12

LOSS OF CREDIT DUE TO ABSENCE ...... 12

MAKE-UP WORK/INCOMPLETE GRADES ...... 12

TARDY TO SCHOOL ...... 13

TRUANCY ...... 13

EMERGENCY AND MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION CARDS ...... 13

INJURY OR ILLNESS AT SCHOOL ...... 13

BUILDING HOURS FOR STUDENTS ...... 13

PERMIT TO LEAVE SCHOOL ...... 13

IDEAL CHARACTERISTICS PROGRAM ...... 14

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES ...... 16

OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION ...... 17

HAZING POLICY ...... 17

HARASSMENT/ BULLYING ...... 17

3 USE OF PROFANITY ...... 17

FIGHTING ...... 18

CHEATING ...... 18

PLAGIARISM ...... 18

STEALING ...... 21

FORGING OR USING A FORGED NOTE ...... 21

COMPUTER/INTERNET RULES ...... 21

SKIPPING DETENTION ...... 21

POSSESSION OF OR UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A DRUG OR ALCOHOL ...... 21

ALCOHOL AND DRUG 10 DAY SUSPENSION REDUCTION PROCEDURES ...... 22

TOBACCO ...... 22

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY ...... 22

BUS PROBLEM ...... 22

DISRESPECT ...... 22

TARDY TO CLASS ...... 23

BOOK BAGS ...... 23

LYING TO A STAFF MEMBER ...... 23

SKIPPING CLASS ...... 23

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES ...... 23

HONOR CODE ...... 24

BELL SCHEDULE: ...... 25

STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE ...... 26

4 DRESS CODE & GROOMING ...... 27

ATTENDANCE ...... 28

FIGHT SONG ...... 30

ALMA MATER ...... 30

PARENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ...... 31

THE PIONEER PLEDGE ...... 32

5 ACTIVITIES A faculty advisor must accompany students in the building after school. The following activities are available and students are encouraged to participate.

Art Club Chorus Band National Honor Society (NHS) Student Council Majorettes Teacher/Office Aide Spanish Club Science Club Class Officers Powderhorn (Yearbook) Pioneer Press French Club Cafeteria Worker Drama Club Quick Recall

ATHLETICS Jonathan Alder High School fields teams in the following sports: (B = Boys' , G = Girls') Fall Winter Spring Football (B) Basketball (B&G) Baseball (B) Volleyball (G) Wrestling (B) Softball (G) Sideline Cheerleading (B&G) Competition Cheerleading Squad (B&G) Tennis (B) Cross Country (B&G) Sideline Cheerleading (B&G) Track (B&G) Tennis (G) Bowling (B&G) Golf (B&G) Swimming (B&G) Soccer (B&G)

ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION/CONCUSSIONS If a concussion is suspected by a physical education teacher or coach, the student will be removed from the class, practice, or game. The student will not be permitted to return to full participation until s/he is evaluated by a healthcare professional experienced in concussion management and receives written clearance for full participation from that professional. Limited physical activity in the physical education context may eventually be permitted, depending on the recommendation of the healthcare professional. Parents or guardians shall be notified about the possible concussion and given information on concussions and the need for medical attention. Students who inform coaches and physical education teachers that they are being treated by a healthcare professional for a physical injury must provide written clearance from that healthcare professional for full or limited participation in class, practice, or competition.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY CODE OF CONDUCT Participation in extracurricular activities at JAHS is a privilege extended to all students in attendance. There are expectations that those that choose to participate will abide by all school rules as well as those outlined in the following policy. The privilege to participate can be revoked when deemed appropriate due to a student’s failure to follow these guidelines. Eligibility – All athletes must maintain their eligibility as required by the Ohio High School Athletic Association, passing at least five credits towards graduation at each nine-week period. Also, students need to abide by the rules that govern the sports as outlined by OHSSA. In addition to the OHSAA rules, Alder may conduct an eligibility check twice during each athletic season An ineligible student-athlete will not participate in any athletic contests from the following Monday through Sunday. If the student-athlete becomes ineligible for a second time during the season, he or she will be ineligible for two weeks. The eligibility checks will be made half way through the nine week grading period and two weeks following the initial check. The 4th 9 week grading period will determine eligibility for the following Fall. Attendance – Students involved in extracurricular activities must attend school at least ½ of the school day to participate in any event that evening. This may be waived with special consent of a school administrator.

Refer to Board Policy

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES There may be additional expectations or requirements in individual activities that will be explained by the coach/advisor. For athletes this will be done in accordance with the Coach’s Handbook.

EVENT BEHAVIOR Students are encouraged to attend extra curricular events to cheer on their classmates but there are some expectations that come along with that privilege. All spectators should focus on cheering for the Pioneers, not against the opponent. Spectators must not, under any circumstance, engage in jeering or taunting the officials or the other team’s players, coaches, or fans. Regardless of the outcome, all players and spectators should display the Ideal Characteristics that our community has identified and values.

RULES FOR PASSENGERS ON THE SCHOOL BUS The following list of rules must be followed by all passengers and drivers to insure the safe operation of the school bus. These rules are issued in conjunction with State Law and school policy. Drivers are responsible for enforcing the rules and passengers will be held accountable for their actions. Failure to follow the rules may result in disciplinary action.

When teachers, coaches, advisors, or chaperones are on a bus, these individuals are expected to assist the driver with making sure that all passengers follow the rules of the bus. The bus driver is responsible for all aspects of the safe operation of the school bus. With safety as our goal, orderliness and cooperation are essential for the security and protection of all on board.

Teachers, coaches, advisors and chaperones will have their organizations members adhere to these rules.

1. Load and unload in an orderly manner at the designated stop. 2. Aisle must be clear at ALL TIMES. 3. Find a seat and be seated. Never change seats or move about while the bus is in motion. 4. Eating and littering are not permitted on the bus. If a stop at a restaurant is scheduled, all eating, drinking must be done on the restaurant premises. **No FOOD or DRINK will be allowed on the school bus. 5. There must be absolute quiet at railroad crossings and other places of danger as specified by the driver. 6. Noise on the bus should be kept to a minimum. The same behavior is EXPECTED on the bus as in the classroom. Pupils may talk quietly if the driver permits. Radios without earphones may not be played on the bus at any time. 7. When more than one adult supervisor rides with a group, one should position their seat at the rear of the bus, and one near the front. 8. Students should be off the bus if no adult chaperone is on with them to maintain order. 9. Only those in official capacity are entitled to ride the bus. For example: coaches, statisticians, team members and substitutes, water boys/girls. 10. It is the chaperone’s responsibility to confiscate any potential safety hazards. Examples: glass containers, fireworks, matches, noisemakers, aerosol cans, etc.

** There may be circumstances where this rule needs to be eased. Both driver and those in charge must feel the need to waive this rule. Litter must be picked up.

Bus drivers may inform the principal in writing of misbehavior. Discipline will be administered according to policies adopted by the Board of Education.

7 OPERATING PROCEDURES

VISITORS Visitors to the building must sign in at the office and receive a pass to have in their possession while in the building. In general, students from other schools will not be allowed to visit our school. Exceptions to this might be granted if a request is made to the principal in advance. No visitors will be permitted to remain in the parking lot to talk with students. Jonathan Alder graduates are welcome, as long as they are visiting a teacher and remain with that teacher.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS If weather conditions or other problems cause the closing of our schools, announcements will be made by some or all of the following radio stations: 610 AM, 920 AM, and most major FM stations. Students may also check TV stations 4, 6, 10, and 28. Families that are registered will receive notification via One Call. It will also be posted on the JA website.

GUIDANCE COUNSELOR INFORMATION

Guidance counselors help students in a wide variety of ways. Several of the primary services the guidance counselors provide include; assisting students with choosing courses of study, exploration of vocations, gathering information for military service, selecting a college, teacher relations, part time employment, social, emotional and personal issues. If you need to see a guidance counselor, please check with the school secretary to set an appointment. Individuals needing immediate attention will be helped accordingly. For information regarding: • GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS • OHIO GRADUATION TESTS (OGT) • CREDIT EARNED IN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL • MIMIMUM 4 YEAR COLLEGE ENTRANCE REQUIEMENTS • PREFERRED COLLEGE ENTRANCE RECOMMENDATIONS: • ACADEMIC HONORS DIPLOMA • CAREER-TECHNICAL DIPLOMA WITH HONORS Please see Guidance or College Center on the left-hand side of the JAHS website.

LIBRARY We strive to make our library an extension of our classrooms, a learner-oriented laboratory that will support, extend, and individualize the school’s curriculum…The media center is a vital hub in our school where research, collaboration, and expansion of our 21st century skills occur. The library serves as the center and coordinating agency for all material used in the school. The media center is open from 7:30am to 2:45pm. When signing into the media center, students need to obtain a media center pass and have the pass signed by the teacher assigning the work.

STUDY HALL Study Hall is a place to study. When the tardy bell rings students should be in their assigned seats. Permission to go to the library may be given by the teacher after attendance has been taken. Students should be quiet and working at all times during study hall.

8 COMMUNICATIONS (PHONES) Students may use the landline office telephones with permission. Students may also use cell phones between classes or during lunch. However, the use of a cell phone in a classroom or in an administrators office is prohibited unless the teacher or administrator grants permission. Additionally, if a teacher or administrator asks a student to; turn off their phone, hand over their phone or not make a call, the student must comply. Failure to comply is considered disrespect or insubordination. The classroom landline telephones are to be used by staff members with limited allowance for student use with teacher permission. However, these phones may be used by anyone in an emergency situation.

ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATIONS - The rules for electronic communications from devices of any type must adhere to the same rules as listed above. (texting, etc.)

COMMUNICATIONS (ELECTRONIC DEVICES) In the 21st century many students and adults carry electronic devices. There are many responsibilities that go along with possessing cell phones, Ipads, netbooks, tablets, cameras etc. All electronic devices are prohibited during classes unless permission is granted by the instructor. If a student is using an electronic device without permission during a class, a teacher or administrator may ask a student to turn off their device and hand over the device. The device may be held by the teacher until the end of the day or turned into the office. Failure to comply will be considered disrespect or insubordination. Additionally, a detention may be issued by the teacher or administrator for using a device in class. Severe disciplinary action may be taken if an individual case warrants such action. Repeat offenses will result in disciplinary actions and could result in the parents having to come to school to pick up the students phone. Students should keep lockers locked at all times to avoid having any valuables stolen. In addition, no student may take still or video images. This includes restrooms and/or locker rooms. Violations will result in severe disciplinary action.

HALL PASSES/CLASS LOGS Any student leaving a classroom MUST have a hall pass. Being in the hall without a pass may result in a detention. Limiting the use of hall passes is left to the discretion of the principal and faculty.

TEACHER EXPECTATIONS In addition to the general school rules that are to be observed, individual teachers may have other expectations for their classroom. These will be explained during the first week of school. As noted in the Student Behavior Code, students are expected to comply with any reasonable direction given by any school authority (i.e. faculty, cooks, custodians, staff).

TEXTBOOKS All textbooks are the property of the Board of Education and are loaned to the students free of charge. Students will be financially responsible for lost or damaged books. All books issued to students are required to be covered. Book covers are available in the office, but other covers are acceptable.

9 LOCKERS At the beginning of the school year each student will be assigned a locker. No student is to change this assignment without approval from the office. Students should keep lockers locked at all times to avoid having any valuables stolen. Students are responsible for the care of their locker and will be charged for damages. Students are not to deface or permanently attach items to their locker. As the school retains ownership and control of lockers assigned to students, school officials may open locked or unlocked student lockers for justifiable reasons.

Promptly report any problem you have with your locker to the office. Please do this in writing, including your name, locker number, and the nature of the problem. Students are asked not to decorate their lockers with any items that may mar the finish of the locker on the inside or the outside. Only magnets should be used to hang mirrors and other items. Items with self-adhesives should not be used.

LOST AND FOUND The Office will serve as a clearinghouse for lost and found articles. Please report items stolen or lost to the office. Students should keep lockers locked at all times to avoid having any valuables stolen. Do not share your locker combination with anyone. It is not recommended that students bring large sums of cash or other valuable items to school. In the event you must bring something valuable (or a large amount of money) to school, please have it stored in the office for security.

DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Since the school is a public building, this is not the proper place to display excessive affection. Therefore, kissing, sitting on laps, etc. is not appropriate and will not be permitted.

LUNCHROOM BEHAVIOR – “CLOSED LUNCH” Students are required to remain at school for lunch. Student need to plan accordingly to eat during their assigned lunch period only. Students are expected to be courteous and considerate at all times, and help keep the auditeria clean. Going to the front of the serving line, in front of others or “ditching,” is not permitted. Eating is permitted only in the auditeria for underclassmen and in the auditeria or courtyard for seniors. Please do not loiter in the halls. Only students who have a signed pass will be permitted to leave the auditeria. Students are not permitted to leave the building, other than the courtyard for seniors. Failure to clean up after your self in the auditeria, throwing food, or other misbehavior will result in disciplinary action.

ASSEMBLIES At all times the student’s behavior should be refined and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of a school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, uncalled for clapping, boisterousness, “booing”, and talking during a program. Misbehavior during an event may result in a student being asked to leave the area with possible disciplinary action taken.

STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO LOITER IN THE PARKING LOT UPON ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL Any student arriving after the tardy bell must sign in at the office. If the student is being dropped off, they should be dropped off at the main entrance. Students who drive should park in their designated parking lot and come in the main entrance. All students must leave the building by 3:00PM unless they are participating in a supervised extracurricular activity.

10 DRIVING TO SCHOOL Students are permitted to drive to school. Anyone planning to do so must register his/her vehicle(s) in the office. There is a $40 fee per year to park at school (Permits may be pro-rated for new drivers. The fee will be $10.00 per nine weeks that remain in the school year). Senior permits are pro-rated $20.00 for students with a weighted GPA of 3.75 or above and $35.00 for seniors who have a 3.0 or above. As with any privilege, there are certain responsibilities. It is expected that all students display good judgment when driving to and from school. Reckless behavior will not be tolerated. Students are to park only in the student lot designated for them. Students are to leave their vehicles immediately after parking. There is to be NO loitering in the parking lot. REMINDER – Students leaving school at the end of the day must yield to school buses. Any student parking in the school lot must display a parking permit.

PARKING VIOLATION 1st offense, 2nd offense, loss of driving privileges for 2 weeks Additional offenses could result in losing privileges completely.

DRIVING VIOLATION 1st offense, may result in loss of driving privilege for 2 weeks Additional offenses could result in losing privileges completely. Failure to yield for buses is considered a driving violation.

HALL/LOCKER SIGNS Students are not permitted to display signs, banners, etc. without authorization from an advisor or the principal. Nothing should be put on the inside or outside of lockers.

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURE When a student is absent from school the parent is asked to call the school by 7:45AM. If this is done then it will NOT be necessary to send a note the next day. If no telephone call is received, the school will attempt to contact the parent at home or work. For convenience we will have an answering machine on until 7:30AM to receive calls so that you can call as soon as you know your child is going to be absent. If a call is not received, the student will then be expected to bring a note signed by the parent indicating the reason for the absence the next day. The absence will then be determined to be excused or unexcused based on Section 3321.04 of the Ohio Revised Code. They are as follows:

1. Personal Illness. The approving authority may require the certificate of a physician if he deems it advisable. 2. Illness in the family. The absence under this condition shall not apply to children under fourteen years of age. 3. Quarantine of the home. The absence of a child from school under this condition is limited to the length of quarantine as fixed by the proper health officials. 4. Death of a relative. The absence arising from this condition is limited to a period of three days unless a reasonable cause may be shown by the applicant child for a longer absence. 5. Home work due to absence of parents or guardians. Any absence arising because of this condition shall not extend for a period longer than that for which the parents or guardians were absent. 6. Observance of religious holidays. Any child of any religious faith shall be excused if his absence was for the purpose of observing a religious holiday consistent with his creed or belief. 7. Emergency or set of circumstances which in the judgment of the superintendent of schools constitutes a good and sufficient cause for absence from school.

ABSENCE FOLLOW-UP PROCEDURE The following policy has been established in an effort to prevent excessive absences and encourage students to develop good attendance habits. Our main purpose is to make every effort to encourage student and parent responsibility in proper student attendance. 1. The student will be permitted and encouraged to complete all schoolwork missed unless the absence is unexcused. 2. Parents will be informed in writing when their child accumulates more than eight (8) absences in a semester. 3. When a student misses more than eight (8) days in a semester the following steps may be taken: - inform the parent in writing of all absences and the potential loss of credit. - have a conference with the student and/or parent - Put the student on “Attendance Probation” whereby future absences will require a doctor’s note to be considered EXCUSED ABSENCES. 4. Students with unexcused absences will not receive credit for make up work.

VACATION PROCEDURES A student that misses school due to a family vacation must get permission to do so from the principal BEFORE leaving on the trip. Failure to do so will result in receiving unexcused absences for the days missed. Requests will be considered based on the student’s attendance record and academic performance. Absences due to vacation count toward the number of days permitted to be missed without losing credit for a course. (Refer to “Loss of Credit Due to Absence)

LOSS OF CREDIT DUE TO ABSENCE All courses offered at Jonathan Alder High School have as a prerequisite, an expectation of attending class regularly. For credit purposes, attendance in each class will be considered individually. If a student accumulates more than 8 absences (UNEXCUSED OR EXCUSED) in a semester course or more than 16 absences in a full year course, he or she will receive No credit for the course on the grade card. It is the responsibility of the students and their parents to keep track of the number of absences and not to exceed this limit. It is important to realize that providing a doctor’s note for an absence DOES NOT mean that a student can exceed this limit. Exceptions to this limit may be granted in case of extenuating circumstances such as extended illness, chronic illness, and hospital stays. If a student exceeds the limit and still earns a passing grade, the student must pay a tutor to be instructed for class time missed prior to receiving any credit. (See Appendix.)

MAKE-UP WORK/INCOMPLETE GRADES It is the responsibility of the student to ask for make-up work from each of the teachers. A student is entitled to the same number of days to make up any work as was missed plus 2 days, unless extenuating circumstances prevail. Incomplete grades will not be issued without permission from the office. If an incomplete grade is issued all work must be made up within two weeks after the end of the grading period. Failure to do so will result in the student receiving an F for the nine weeks in the subject unless prior administrative approval has been given.

12 TARDY TO SCHOOL Students who are repeatedly late to school will be assigned detentions. The policy is as follows: During each grading period a student is permitted to be tardy to school twice without receiving punishment. On the third time and each time thereafter, a detention will be given. The only way to be excused for tardiness is a morning doctor appointment. The student must bring a note from the doctor’s office. Detention for tardiness will be served after school. After the sixth tardy in a grading period, Thursday Schools will be assigned.

TRUANCY Any student whose absence remains unexcused after three days will be designated as a truant. Students will receive a Thursday School for each occurrence of truancy. Repeated truancy (five or more) may result in charges filed in Juvenile Court. Students with unexcused absences will not receive credit for work missed.

Refer to Board Policy

EMERGENCY AND MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION CARDS In the event that it should be necessary to contact parents or guardians of students who become ill or injured while at school, the Emergency Information Card must be filled out and kept on file in the office. This card also gives authorization to school authorities to provide emergency treatment when parents or guardians cannot be reached. This is an extremely important piece of information, and every student enrolled must have a card on file. Students should keep this information current.

INJURY OR ILLNESS AT SCHOOL If a student is injured or becomes ill during school, they must report to a teacher who will give the student a pass to the office. Students may then be directed to the clinic and cannot leave the clinic without permission.

BUILDING HOURS FOR STUDENTS Students should plan to arrive at school approximately fifteen minutes before class begins. Any student arriving before must go directly to the lobby and remain there until the first bell. Students are not permitted to loiter in the student parking lot upon arrival at school. Any student arriving after the tardy bell must enter through the main entrance and sign in at the office. Tardy students who drive should park in their designated parking lot. Students are to leave the building by three o’clock unless participating in a supervised after school activity. The academic wing will be locked at three o’clock and students will not have access to lockers after this time.

PERMIT TO LEAVE SCHOOL Any student must secure written permission to leave the school grounds during school hours. Permission will not be granted without a note from a parent and must be presented before first period starts. Any student who leaves school before the hour of dismissal without the consent of the principal may be suspended. Anyone leaving the building must sign out. Students are not permitted to leave the building to go to the parking lot without permission from the office.

13 JONATHAN ALDER HIGH SCHOOL IDEAL CHARACTERISTICS PROGRAM

At Jonathan Alder High School we believe there are widely shared core ethical values that form the basis of good character. We have identified these core values as clearly observable behaviors in the school setting and seek to model them throughout the school community. Periodically, we evaluate our students and the development of these characteristics while helping students reflect upon their own growth. We believe that the development of these characteristics will serve the welfare of the individual, school, and community.

The Characteristics: Always display a positive attitude Lead by example Dependable Ethical Respectful of others *A descriptive list of these characteristics can be found on the next page of this handbook.

14 15

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

School discipline is the system of rules, punishments, and behavioral strategies appropriate to the regulation of students and the maintenance of order and safety at school. The goal is to positively influence student actions and behavior for the betterment of the school and the educational community.

If an individual follows the Ideal Characteristics and adheres to the school policies, they will be in compliance with the school rules and codes of conduct. These rules may, for example, define the expected standards of clothing, timekeeping, social conduct, and work ethic. The term discipline is also applied to the punishment that is the consequence of breaking the rules. The aim of discipline is to set limits restricting certain behaviors or attitudes that are seen as harmful or going against school policies, educational norms, school traditions, et cetera.

Discipline as a punishment: If an individual breaks the rules or policies set forth in the student handbook or as established by Board of Education, disciplinary action will be issued. It is the intention of the administration to apply standard consequences for first time offenders. To clarify, the consequence listed will only apply to the first incident. Second offenses and further infractions or misbehavior will be dealt with at the discretion of the principal. The discipline used by Jonathan Alder High School is of a progressive nature. Progressive discipline is defined as the more frequent the instances of misbehavior, the more severe the punishment. When students disobey the Student Behavior Code, they are subject to the consequences. Usually this means serving after school detentions, Thursday School or suspension. Frequent offenses or serious offenses may warrant expulsion from school. Detentions are served for 25 minutes immediately after school, and students are responsible for their own transportation. During detention, students must work on homework or read appropriate material. As stated above, our discipline is progressive. If three or more detentions accumulate a Thursday school will be issued. If a second Thursday school is issued before the first one is served an out of school suspension will be given.

Refer to Board Policy

THURSDAY SCHOOL RULES 1. All students assigned to THURSDAY SCHOOL must attend for 3 hours. Thursday School begins 15 minutes after the school day ends. 2. If a student arrives late he or she will be sent home and will not be permitted to serve their THURSDAY SCHOOL. 3. All students must leave the building 15 minutes after Thursday School. Students must make transportation arrangements. 4. Any students involved in extra-curricular activities will be prohibited from participation during Thursday School. This includes those who skip the Thursday School. 5. Students will not be allowed to talk, eat, sleep, leave their seat without permission, or spend time on anything except schoolwork during Thursday School. 6. There will be a supervised restroom break. This is the only time students will be permitted to use the restroom without a doctor’s note. 7. All school rules are to be observed while students are on school grounds. 8. Students MUST arrive with the necessary school supplies, i.e., textbooks, notebooks, pens, etc. 9. Any student not serving the Thursday School, or who is sent home for any reason could be suspended from school. 10. If school is closed for any reason on Thursday, the Thursday School is cancelled for that day and will be rescheduled. 11. Thursday School may only be rescheduled if a parent or guardian makes a request to a school administrator prior to the scheduled Thursday School and the request is granted. 16

OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION Students who are suspended out of school will be counted as absent. It is the student’s responsibility to make up any missed assignments. Students who are suspended are not permitted on campus for any reason during their suspension days. (This includes extracurricular events)

HAZING POLICY Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with educational process and are prohibited at all times. No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school district shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate any hazing activities. No student, including leaders of student organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in any hazing. Hazing is defined as doing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation unto any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person. Permission, consent, or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing does not lessen the prohibition contained in this policy.

HARASSMENT/ BULLYING No student may harass any student, staff or faculty member on the basis of handicap, sex, race, age, religion, national origin, or difference of ideology. This applies to harassment in any form (i.e., physical, verbal, written) and violators will be subject to disciplinary action. Harassment and bullying are issues the district considers serious. Thus, administrators need to be informed of possible incidents and situations in order to properly document and address the situation. Please contact an administrator when concerns or incidents occur.

Refer to Board Policy

USE OF PROFANITY Depending on the severity and extent of the language used, disciplinary action may range from a detention to a "Thursday School" to an "Out-of-School Suspension." The student may also be assigned a writing assignment in which they must explain the choice of words used and appropriate alternative choices which could have been used. This assignment may be sent to the students parents/guardians with the requirement that the parent/guardian sign the assignment and return it to the school. Using obscene gestures is considered profane.

OFFENSIVE MATERIALS Students may not carry, exhibit, wear, or posses materials deemed to be offensive or agitating in nature. This includes hanging items in or on your locker, posting signs in the classrooms or the halls, having drawings, pictures or other graphics materials which depict scenes, emblems, or causes designated to promote or incite reactionary behaviors. Examples of several unacceptable items includes pornography, sexually graphic language or images, Confederate flags, Nazi emblems, etc. Possession and/or transmission of pornographic materials is prohibited. Displays of any explicit or suggestive graphics, drawings, photographs, etc. is not permitted. The final decision as to whether an item is offensive or not will be made by a school administrator.

FIGHTING

In our continuing efforts to make the school environment free of violence, fighting in school or on school grounds will not be tolerated. If a student is involved in a fight, he/she will be removed from classes and, if possible, sent home for the day. This will be followed by three days of out-of-school suspension for the first offense. Additional infractions will result in longer suspensions ranging from 5 to 10 days. In severe and/or recurring offenses expulsion may be recommended. Generally speaking BOTH parties involved in a fight will be punished. However, if one student is obviously the aggressor and the other has done everything possible to avoid the situation, only one student might be punished. This could happen if the other student is defending him/herself and doing nothing to continue the fight. Furthermore, if a student is involved in an assault of another student the consequence is considerably greater. (ASSAULT is defined as one student hitting another without any retaliation.) Assault of a student will result in removal from classes and, if possible, sent home for the day. This will be followed by a 5-day out-of-school suspension for the first offense AND a report will be filed with the proper authorities. Additional infractions will result in a longer suspension and possible recommendation for expulsion. CAUTION – Horseplay could result in a fight that would warrant disciplinary action.

CHEATING

A zero (0) will be given on the assignment in addition to disciplinary action. Using cheat sheet for test – Thursday School; passing off others work as your own – Thursday School. The student’s teacher will contact the parent to explain the situation. More severe actions may be taken depending on the situation. Stealing tests, taking pictures of material to be tested or quizzed, or additional forms of cheating will be dealt with accordingly.

Refer to the Jonathan Alder Honor Code

Refer to definitions and elaboration on each below.

PLAGIARISM

Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to: • Taking someone else’s assignment or portion of an assignment and submitting it as your own • Submitting material written by someone else or rephrasing the ideas of another without giving the author’s name or source • Presenting the work of tutors, parents, siblings, or friends as your own • Submitting purchased papers as your own • Submitting papers, or portions of papers, from the Internet written by someone else as your own • Supporting plagiarism by providing your work to others, whether you believe it will be copied or not

CHEATING

Cheating includes, but is not limited to the following: • Copying, text messaging, faxing, emailing, or in any way duplicating assignments that are turned in, wholly or in part, as original work • Exchanging assignments with other students, either handwritten or computer generated, whether you believe they will be copied or not • Using any form of memory aid during tests or quizzes without the expressed permission of the instructor • Using a computer or other means to translate an assignment from one language into another language and submitting it as an original work • Giving or receiving answers during tests or quizzes • Taking credit for group work when you have not contributed an equal or appropriate share toward the result • Accessing a test or quiz for determining the questions in advance of its administration • Using summaries/commentaries (Cliff Notes, Spark Notes, etc.) in lieu of reading the assigned materials

Students are expected to produce their own work except on projects designated by the teacher as cooperative efforts. Teachers will indicate which assignments are to be cooperative efforts and will establish guidelines for the use of such aids as calculators, computers, word processors and published study guides.

If a student is in doubt about the ethical standards applicable to a particular situation, the student is responsible for clarifying the matter with the teacher.

Each student is responsible for securing his/her own work.

Consequences Any student who is caught cheating will receive a grade of "zero" for the assignment, test, or quiz involved, and the teacher will contact the parent(s) of the student(s). An administrator will also assign a Thursday School for the first offense. Additional offenses could result in more severe punishment. When work is copied from another student, both students may be penalized with a grade of “zero” unless the student whose work is copied had no knowledge of the situation.

Any student who plagiarizes will be expected to redo the assignment and may receive a grade reduction for the assignment and the teacher will contact the parent. Progressive discipline will be administered for additional violations.

Alternatives to Cheating and Plagiarism Students do not need to cheat or plagiarize. There are numerous support services for students to help them achieve success honorably. These support services include, but are not limited to, the following: tutoring/intervention assistance, opportunities to redo assignments, before and after school help sessions, and peer tutors. Talk with your teacher or see one of the guidance counselors to arrange this. Students who seek appropriate help when they need it will be more successful and will feel more satisfied with their accomplishments.

The following behaviors promote true student achievement: • Be prepared. Try to keep to a realistic schedule balancing academic obligations and your social and personal life. • Make certain that you understand your assignments and the grading assessment that will be used. If you have questions about an assignment or an assessment, talk to your instructor. Do not rely solely upon a classmate for clarification. • Be cautious when reading or scanning someone else’s paper before writing your own. Some of the ideas in the other person’s paper may be ideas that you would have used, but you will now need to credit the person whose paper you read for those ideas. • Use all avenues of support available to you. • Assignments should be considered individual unless the instructor states otherwise. • Be organized. Having class notes in an orderly, easily accessible format will save time and anxiety when studying for a test or writing a paper. • Keep current with assignments. • If, for whatever reason, you choose to use another’s ideas or solutions, cite that person as a source on your paper or project.

Parental Support Parental support of academic achievement and ethical development is fundamental to students’ long-term success. The following behaviors will assist parents in promoting true student achievement: * Teachers are available for extra help before and after school. In addition, peer tutors are available during the school day. Encourage your child to take advantage of the extra one-on-one time. • Assess your child’s abilities realistically. Help her/him to choose courses in which she/he will be successful and challenged without undue stress. Consult your child’s guidance counselor with additional questions. • Don’t push children beyond their limits with your expectations or aspirations. Many times students make bad decisions because the pressure to excel is greater than their ability to meet the expectations. • If you suspect your child is experiencing difficulty in a class, please contact the teacher. The sooner the problem is identified; the sooner steps can be taken to alleviate it. • If your child is caught cheating and you are called, please remember that this is a learning experience. Help your child to accept the consequences for his/her inappropriate actions.

Excellent written expression of well-formulated ideas is a fundamental skill for academic and career success. Plagiarism interferes with the assessment and feedback process that is necessary in order to promote academic growth. Plagiarism defrauds the instructor with a false view of a student’s strengths and weaknesses. It may prevent further instruction in addressing areas of weakness and delay the student in reaching his or her potential.

Education is based on learning specific skills, forming lifelong work habits, and developing mature coping skills according to each student’s unique abilities. Stress sometimes propels students to make unethical choices. When students choose to cheat, it may be a symptom of more serious problems such as inappropriate class placement, over-commitment to extra-curricular activities, and/or academic desperation. The compromise of their values through cheating may lead to loss of self-esteem, as the students are often painfully aware of their shortcomings and fight a tiring battle to preserve their images at the cost of their ethics. True self-esteem is based on competence. Cheating robs students of their opportunity to become competent.

STEALING Financial reimbursement will be made as deemed fair by the principal and a suspension of up to 3 days may be given. Repeat offenses will involve harsher punishments. A longer suspension if the theft involves valuable items. The authorities may be contacted.

FORGING OR USING A FORGED NOTE Thursday School will be assigned.

COMPUTER/INTERNET RULES The School District provides access to students, staff and users to electronic network systems. Access to the electronic network includes access to inter-connected computer systems in the building, district or inter- connected computer systems on a world-wide basis and may include services such as e-mail, forums, bulletin boards and web-sites which are available to the electronic network. Access is provided solely for the purposes of education and educational research. The school district will exercise reasonable effort to limit student access to inappropriate materials, but cannot provide assurance that all materials are appropriate. The ultimate responsibility for appropriate electronic network usage is that of the student. The district further provides no assurance that any specific information, service or system presently available on the electronic network will continue to be available. Access to the electronic network is a privilege, which will be lost in the event of failure to comply with any of the terms of the Jonathan Alder Local School’s Network Usage Policy.

If students violate any of the Board Adopted Policies or high school rules regarding the Internet or computer network rules discipline ranging from detention to suspension will be administered. Students may also be banned from future computer use. Please refer to the Network Usage Policy in this handbook.

Refer to Board Policy

SKIPPING DETENTION If a student cannot attend an assigned detention for any reason, he/she must notify the assistant principal prior to the detention. It is at the discretion of the assistance principal to reassign the detention. If a student skips detention and does not notify the office as to the reason for doing so ahead of time, a Thursday School will be assigned.

POSSESSION OF OR UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF A DRUG OR ALCOHOL Ten (10) days suspension from school (out-of-school). Charges may be filed with the local authorities. (Refer to Board policy for consequences regarding extracurricular activities.) A. Parent will be notified as soon as possible and student may be removed from school for the remainder of the day. B. The police may be notified of the incident and they, at their discretion, may conduct an investigation. C. Consultation set up with parent and student about the suspension procedure and the possibility of a reduced suspension if there is cooperation in dealing with the problem through an alcohol/drug use evaluation and/or assessment from a school approved individual or agency. D. Penalty: 1st Offense: 10 days out-of-school suspension with possible reduction 2nd Offense: 10 days out-of-school suspension, no reduction, possible expulsion 3rd Offense: Expulsion Possession for sale or transmission: 1st offense – Expulsion. The principal may modify a 10-day suspension for the first offense (except for sale and/or transmission of drugs) if the student and parent agree to participate in an activity designed to modify alcohol and drug related behavior. The 10-day suspension may be reduced by a maximum of 5 days for participation in the designated activities.

ALCOHOL AND DRUG 10 DAY SUSPENSION REDUCTION PROCEDURES If a student is suspended for a first violation of the Board of Education’s Alcohol and Drug policy (except for sales and/or transmission), the parent may request a reduction of up to five days of the suspension in the following manner:

1. The parents will be advised of the reduction possibility by the administrator who notifies them of the suspension. 2. A combination of the following alternatives may be required by the administrator to effect reduction of the suspension: a. parents take student to a school-approved person or agency for a dependency assessment and authorize the release of the results of same to school. b. student will attend support group meetings at school upon return from out-of-school suspension. c. failure of the student or parent to complete the activities assigned by the administrator will result in the days of reduction being reinstated

TOBACCO There will be no tobacco permitted at school or school sponsored events. First offense will be a Thursday School. Second offense will be a 2-day suspension. Additional offenses will result in progressively more severe punishments. Student athletes will have additional consequences according to Board of Education Policy.

Refer to Board Policy

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY (i.e. writing on walls, desks, lockers, or damage to any individual or school property.) Damage will be paid for by the student or his/her parent/guardian at a price deemed fair by the principal. In addition to financial reimbursement, either a suspension will be assigned or work must be done for the school, the length of which will be set by the principal. Charges may be filed with local authorities.

BUS PROBLEM The District procedure will be followed which will be distributed on the first day of school and signed by each parent. (See Rules For Passengers On The School Bus)

DISRESPECT Any type of disrespect will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action. The discipline taken could be either Thursday school or out of school suspension, depending on severity of the incident.

TARDY TO CLASS A tardy will result in a detention. Also see Tardy to School.

BOOK BAGS Book bags are permitted only in the hallways in the morning before school or after school. Book bags, duffle bags, tote bags must be stored in a locked locker.

LYING TO A STAFF MEMBER Will result in a Thursday School.

SKIPPING CLASS A student will receive a Thursday school for skipping a class. Future skipping will result in stronger disciplinary procedures.

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES There are several policies adopted by the Board of Education that pertain to student behavior and other topics that deal with the operation of the high school. Examples of these include: • Student Behavior code • Tobacco & Alcohol Use/Drug Abuse by Students • Acceptable Use of School Computers • Student Rights • Student Hazing • Dangerous Weapons • Suspension and Expulsion (including the appeal process) • Search and Seizure • Student use of medicines • Student Network and Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy

To read these policies in their entirety and any other Board Policies refer to the Policy Manual that is available at the high school, superintendent’s office and/or on the Districts website.

Refer to Board Policy

JONATHAN ALDER HONOR CODE DEFINITIONS

Cheating - Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, notes, study aids or other cheating devices, or obtaining unauthorized assistance from any source of work submitted as one’s own individual efforts in any class, assignment, or examination.

Plagiarism – Representing orally or in writing, in any academic assignment or exercise, the words, ideas, or works of another as one’s own without customary or proper acknowledgement of the source.

Examples: Examples of plagiarism include, but are not limited to, the following actions: • Submitting material or work for evaluation, in whole or in part, which has been prepared by another individual(s) or commercial service. • Directly quoting from a source without the customary or proper citation. • Paraphrasing or summarizing another’s work without acknowledging the source.

Facilitating Academic Dishonesty

Definition: Helping or attempting to help another person commit an act of academic dishonesty.

Examples: Examples of facilitating academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, the following actions: • Providing assistance to another during an exam or other assignment in an unauthorized manner. • Providing specific information about a recently given or future test, exam, or other assignment to another student who thereby gains an unfair advantage in an academic evaluation. • Permitting one’s academic work to be represented as the work of another. • Preparing for sale, barter, or loan to another such items as unauthorized papers, notes, or summaries of reading.

On my honor, I affirm that I have neither given nor received any unauthorized assistance on this assignment.

Student’s signature ______Student’s Printed Name ______

Taken from: http://www.students.vcu.edu/rg/policies/rg7honor.html

24 BELL SCHEDULE:

BELL SCHEDULE 2015-2016

Regular Bell Schedule One Hour Delay

1st 7:30 - 8:24 54 min 1st 8:30 - 9:14 44 min 2nd 8:28 - 9:18 50 min 2nd 9:18 - 9:58 40 min 3rd 9:22 -10:12 50 min 3rd 10:02 - 10:42 40 min 4th 10:16 - 11:06 50 min 5th 10:46 - 11:16 30 min 5th 11:10 - 11:40 30 min 6th 11:19 - 11:49 30 min 6th 11:43 - 12:13 30 min 7th 11:52 - 12:22 30 min 7th 12:16 - 12:46 30 min 4th 12:26 - 1:06 40 min 8th 12:50 - 1:40 50 min 8th 1:10 - 1:50 40 min 9th 1:44 - 2:34 50 min 9th 1:54 - 2:34 40 min

Pep Rally Bell Schedule/Class meetings Two Hour Delay

1st 7:30 - 8:19 49 min 1st 9:30 - 10:04 34 min 2nd 8:23 -9:08 45 min 2nd 10:08 - 10:38 30 min 3rd 9:12 -9:57 45 min 3rd 10:42 - 11:12 30 min 4th 10:01 - 10:46 45 min 5th 11:16 - 11:46 30 min 5th 10:50 - 11:20 30 min 6th 11:49 - 12:19 30 min 6th 11:23 - 11:53 30 min 7th 12:22 - 12:52 30 min 7th 11:56 - 12:26 30 min 4th 12:56 - 1:26 30 min 8th 12:30 - 1:15 45 min 8th 1:30 - 2:00 30 min 9th 1:19 - 2:04 45 min 9th 2:04 - 2:34 30 min report to gym 2:04 - 2:14 report to gym Pep Rally 2:14 -2:34 20 min

Early Release Schedule Teacher Day 7:15-2:45

1st 7:30 - 8:02 32 min 2nd 8:06 - 8:33 27 min Faculty Meeting/ 3rd 8:37 - 9:03 26 min Professional Development Wed. 4th 9:07 - 9:33 26 min (every other week) 8th 9:37 - 10:03 26 min 2:45 - 3:25 9th 10:07 - 10:33 26 min 5th 10:37 - 11:07 30 min 6th 11:11 - 11:41 30 min 7th 11:45 - 12:15 30 min

Policy Board of Education STUDENTS JONATHAN ALDER LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE

The following types of conduct may lead to the suspension, expulsion, and/or removal of any student who, while on school grounds or during a school activity:

A. causes disruptive behavior or interference with curricular or extra-curricular activities

B. causes or attempts to cause substantial damage to school property or steals or attempts to steal school property

C. causes or attempts to cause substantial damage to private property or steals or attempts to steal private property

D. assaults a school employee, student, or other person on the school premises, while in the custody and control of the school, or in the course of a school related activity

E. possesses or transmits any firearms, knife, explosive or other dangerous objects (i.e. mace, pepper spray, etc.)

F. possesses, uses, transmits, or is under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, alcoholic beverages or intoxicant of any kind

G. uses or copies the academic work of another and presents it as his/her own without proper attribution

H. defies the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, or administrators, or disregards the reasonable directions or commands of school authorities

I. defies the rules of conduct for school buses

J. possesses or uses cigarettes, cigars, pipes or other such tobacco or tobacco-like items including vapor devices

K. indecently exposes his/her body or participates in indecent acts with other persons

L. performs any harassment, vandalism, physical abuse, or other disruptive behavior towards school personnel during non-school time or for any conduct away from school which has a detrimental effect on school discipline or authority

M. is absent from school without being excused, fails to report to school, or is absent from class without permission

N. fails to appear for assigned detention, Thursday School or in-school or out-of-school suspension

O. participates in any gang or gang related activity, dress, writes or possesses and/or distributes any gang symbols, writing or displays any other behavior deemed gang related

P. threatens another student or school employee, while on school property, or in the course of a school-related activity.

Q. demonstrates any form of disrespect to/about employees of the school district

Refer to Board Policy

Policy Board of Education JONATHAN ALDER LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENTS

DRESS CODE & GROOMING As society's norms for dress and grooming change, it is helpful for students and parents to have some guidelines concerning school policy on controversial questions relating to student dress and grooming. It is impossible to list all of the styles, which might be considered appropriate for school. Likewise, it is impossible to anticipate questions involving dress and grooming which may arise in the future. These guidelines are given to Jonathan Alder Local students to assist them in selecting clothing and grooming practices, which will serve as an indication of their pride in themselves and in their school. The following statements are intended to provide minimal guidelines for a standard of student dress. The major responsibility for meeting these standards may be established by the home. Failure to comply with these standards may result in the student being sent home from school.

A. School clothing should be neat, clean, properly fitted in styles appropriate for school and community. Attempts by students to call undue attention to themselves by unusual, bizarre, or revealing dress as mentioned above will not be permitted. B. Clothing with profane, suggestive, or questionable pictures and/or lettering is prohibited. C. Clothing, such as shirts and blouses, should be worn as designed & should not display cleavage. "Low cut" tops that expose any part of the breast are not permitted. D. While on field trips, the teacher/s in charge will determine the mode of dress. E. Shorts are permitted as long as they are of reasonable length and appearance. Skirts, dresses, and shorts need to be of a length no more than four inches above the top of the kneecap. Please note: This is the standard for skirt length regardless of whether shorts are worn underneath. Skirts and shorts need to be properly hemmed. F. Students in grades 7-12 will not be permitted to wear clothes worn for physical education class throughout the rest of the school day. G. Hair should be clean and well groomed at all times and extreme styles will not be allowed where it is a health or safety hazard. Coaches may set more stringent regulations for hair. H. Beards, goatees, and mustaches must be neatly trimmed. I. Appropriate clothing is an expectation for each student. Clothing is deemed appropriate for both boys and girls using the standard that if a piece of clothing is inappropriate for either sex, it is also inappropriate for the other sex to wear. Following are examples of clothing that would be considered inappropriate: *Short shorts *See-through blouses *Tops that expose the stomach or back*Halter tops*Any garment that could result in indecent exposure including exposed cleavage*Any piece of clothing where stomachs or under garments are exposed, including pants not pulled up. *Tops, dresses, etc. with thin straps or without backs. *Pants with holes above the knees, unless fully patched with permanent patch material. J. Shoes or sandals must be worn at all times. K. Students should make every attempt to be clean and well groomed at all times. Attempts by students to call undue attention to themselves by unusual, bizarre or revealing dress as mentioned above will not be permitted. (For example: Pants with holes above the knees, T-shirts worn inside out or gym clothes worn in the halls or in areas other than the Physical Education Department.) L. No gang related dress (i.e. bandanas, colors, hair styles, etc.) M. Hats (hoods) are not allowed to be worn in the school building except on special days approved by the building principal. N. Items such as dog chokers, dangling chains, jewelry with sharp points (i.e. studded collars and bracelets) are prohibited. O. Exposed body piercing other than earrings and nose piercing will not be permitted. This would include tongue piercings or any other piercings visible to others. P. Wearing of coats is not permitted unless approved by the building principal due to temperature problems in the building. A coat is anything considered outerwear. If questions arise, the building principal will make the final determination about what is or isn't a coat. Q. Book bags, tote bags, and duffel bags are only to be carried to and from school. They are not permitted to be taken to class or library. Students who violate the above guidelines will not be admitted to class. They will be sent to the office and given a detention. The student will have to change clothes or will be sent home. Additional violations could result other discipline, including suspension from school. The building principal shall serve as the arbiter of student dress and grooming in his/her building.

Refer to Board Policy

Policy Jonathan Alder Local School District STUDENTS Board of Education

ATTENDANCE

The Board of Education as an agency of the State is required to enforce regular attendance of students. The Board recognizes that regular attendance and promptness are marks of a good student and a good citizen. In school, as in other facets of life, punctuality and regular attendance are necessary for success.

Ohio law requires all children between the ages of six (6) and eighteen (18) to attend school (RC 3321.01). The parent (defined in RC 3313.64) or other person having care of a child of compulsory school age is responsible for that child's school attendance. This responsibility is satisfied by attendance at either a school or a special education program, which meets the minimum standards prescribed by the State Board of Education. (RC 3321.03) School attendance must begin within the first week of the school term. Children moving into the school district must begin school attendance within one (1) week after they begin to reside in the district. (RC 3321.04)

Absence from school is legal for the following reasons under Section 3301-15-13 of the Ohio Administrative Code: A. Personal Illness B. Illness in the family C. Death of a relative D. Emergency work for parents E. Observation of a religious holiday F. Unusual situations approved by the principal

Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the schools during the days and hours that the school is in session or during the attendance sessions to which s/he has been assigned unless it is shown to the satisfaction of the Superintendent that the mental condition of the student is such that s/he cannot benefit from instruction or that the bodily condition of the student is such as to prevent attendance at school or that s/he is receiving instruction at home from a person qualified to teach the branches of education in which instruction is required.

In accordance with statute, the principal may require from the parent of each student or from an adult student who has been absent from school or from class for any reason a written statement of the cause for such absence. The Board reserves the right to verify such statements and to investigate the cause of each.

1. The first time a student is suspended during the year for an incident that results in a suspension of three (3) days or less, the student will be allowed to make up work and receive full credit. 2. Students may make up work and receive 80% credit for any subsequent/additional suspensions.

Absences are of two kinds, excused and unexcused. In the event of any absence students will be allowed time to make up missed schoolwork. The student may receive a grade of zero (0) for work missed that is not made up. Out of school suspensions are not counted as truancies. Students who are suspended are expected to make up the work but will receive a 2% reduction for each day of their suspension. Unexcused absences will be dealt with based on frequency.

Students who have accumulated seven (7) days of absence (except for days missed with written doctors excuses or out of school suspension will be placed on "Attendance Probation." Any further absences incurred after a student attains Attendance Probation status will require a medical excuse or approval from the Principal or his/her designee. Anytime a medical excuse is available it should be filed with the school. If no medical excuse is provided, a referral will be made to the truant officer.

The Board may report to appropriate authorities student attendance infractions of the law and Board policy. These infractions may result in the suspension or expulsion of the offending student from the regular school program.

Continued

Policy Jonathan Alder Local School District STUDENTS Board of Education

ATTENDANCE – Continued

In the event that a student or parent or guardian of a student feels that there are extenuating circumstances, which are not within the power of the schools to, judge but which should be considered in regard to whether a student must be in school, appeals may be made through the County Juvenile Courts. (Such an appeal initiated by the parent or guardian of a student will not result in a negative court record for the parties involved.)

Attendance need not always be within the school facilities, but a student will be considered to be in attendance if present at any place where school is in session by authority of the Board. The Board shall consider each student assigned to a program of other guided learning experiences to be in regular attendance for the program, provided that s/he is under the guidance of a staff member so assigned, reports to such staff member the place in which s/he is conducting study, and regularly demonstrates progress toward the objectives of the course of study.

It shall be the policy of the Board to consider the effectiveness and appropriateness to the student’s need of the educational program that is offered students who are habitually absent. The building principal will establish procedures and time lines for making up work.

Loss of Credit Due to Absence If a student accumulates more than 8 absences (unexcused or excused) in a semester course or 16 absences in a full year course, he or she will receive no academic credit for the course on their grade card. It is the responsibility of the student/s and their parents to keep track of the number of absences and not to exceed this limit. The building principal or his/her designee in case of extenuating circumstances such as extended illness and hospital stays may grant exceptions to this limit. If a student exceeds the limit and still earns a passing grade, the student/s must pay to be tutored for class time missed before receiving any credit. This may cause students in grades K-8 to be retained.

The Board authorizes the Superintendent to suspend/expel a student from a particular class or from school if sincere efforts by the staff and parents cannot rectify the pattern of absence.

The principal may excuse a student over fourteen (14) years of age from attendance at school for a future limited period in accordance with A.C.3301-51-13 for the purpose of performing essential work directly or exclusively for his/her parents or guardians. Such excuse should not exceed five (5) days and 6may be renewed twice if necessary in any one school year.

The Superintendent shall develop procedures for the attendance of students which: A. insure a school session, which is in conformity with requirements of the rules of the State Board B. govern the keeping attendance records in accordance with rules of the State Board C. impose on truant students such incremental disciplinary measures as behavior, and consider modification of his/her educational program to meet particular needs and interest D. insure that students absent for any excusable reason have an opportunity to make up work they missed.

FIGHT SONG We’ve got the team Alder’s got the team Fight on for victory Rah! Rah! Rah! Fight on for Alder High

When the Scarlet and the Black proudly waves against the sky The colors of the Pioneers will always wave on high.

Cause we’ve got the team. Alder’s got the team. Fight on for victory. Rah! Rah! Rah! Fight on for Alder High.

ALMA MATER

Oh, Alder shall our songs forever Be raised in joyous praise to thee. And though far from thee we may wander Our thoughts shall ever be of thee. Through all life’s happiness and sorrow Our hearts with love shall never lack. Devoted to the Alma Mater And to The Scarlet and The Black. -Judy Woods Walker (Class of 1956)

PARENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Please sign and return to school

For Parents to be “Partners in Education”, the following is encouraged:

1. Be familiar with the student handbook and school policies.

2. Keep informed about your child’s homework and other assignments.

3. Use e-mail or the web page to check assignments my child misses when absent from school.

4. Call the high school in the morning when your son/daughter is going to be absent from school.

5. Keep the school informed of situations that may be beneficial to the safety and development of your son/daughter.

6. Be familiar with the Jonathan Alder Honor Code and understand the difference between “helping” with an assignment and “completing” an assignment.

7. Do not hesitate to call the school in search of accurate information or “the rest of the story”.

8. Go over academic grades and conduct grades with my child at the end of every grading period.

I have read the Jonathan Alder Handbook (Written, Online), Jonathan Alder Honor Code and the Partners in Education. I understand the information presented. It is my responsibility to make certain my child is aware of these rules and expectations.

Signed ______Date:______(Parent/Guardian’s Name)

Parent’s E-mail address______

Student’s Name ______Grade:______(Please Print)

THE PIONEER PLEDGE We have the most important job in the world, educating children.

That means you have entrusted us with the care and nurturing of your loved ones. In preparation for their future lives, we will be responsible for educating and guiding the young people who enter this building. With this enormous task at hand we promise the following...

• We will always keep the best interest of your child at heart. * We will maintain high but reasonable expectations. * We will keep you informed about your child. * We will be firm but fair with all discipline. * We will never lose sight of the fact that children make mistakes and this is a natural part of the learning process.

In order to ensure the best education possible for your child, parents, and the school need to become partners. We will gladly accept our share of the responsibility of the education of your children. We need your support and cooperation as we attempt to make our school district the best it can be.