1 Channelview Independent School District
FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION address the harassment. The district may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is subject of the complaint did The district believes that all students learn best in an not rise to the level of harassment prohibited by law or policy. environment free from harassment and that their welfare is best served when they can work free from discrimination. Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of Students are expected to treat other students and district prohibited harassment is prohibited. However, a person who employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when cooperate with a district investigation may be subject to asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat appropriate discipline. students with courtesy and respect. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit investigation may appeal in accordance with [District Policy and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors FNG]. that are based on a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, or disability. Prohibited harassment, In the efforts to promote nondiscrimination, the district makes in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive the following statements: that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; or substantially The Channelview Independent School District does not interferes with the student’s academic performance. A copy discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national of the district’s policy is available in the principal’s office and origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education on the district’s website at www.channelview.isd.esc4.net. services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act Examples of prohibited discrimination may include, but are of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments not limited to, derogatory language directed at a person’s of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for amended. accommodation; bullying, threatening or intimidating conduct; name-calling or slurs, taunting, teasing (even when presented If you feel that your child has received discriminatory as “jokes”) or rumors; aggression or assault; graffiti or printed treatment, you should first attempt to resolve the problem with material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative the teacher involved. The following staff members have been stereotypes; or aggressive conduct such as theft or damage of designated to handle specific complaints and to coordinate property. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may compliance with these requirements. include touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or Title IX Coordinator conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated Questions concerning the district's implementation of Title IX conduct, communications, or contact. should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator, Robert Worthy, (281-452-8010), CISD Administration Building, 1403 Sheldon Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer Rd. Channelview, Texas 77530. This includes complaints does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not regarding sexual harassment. reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, all romantic and inappropriate social relationships, as well as all Section 504 Coordinator sexual relationships,In case of a betweenconflict studentsbetween and Board district Policy employees or the Student CodeInformation of Conduct concerning and any the provisionsidentification of orthe services Student for Handbook, the are prohibited,provisions even of if consensual.Board Policy or the Student Code of Conductstudents that were under most Section recently 504 canadopted be obtained by the byBoard calling are or to be followed. writing the campus principal or the District 504 Coordinator, Any student (or the student’s parent) who believes that he or Gloria Roach, (281-452-8006), CISD Administration she has experienced prohibited harassment should Building, 1403 Sheldon Rd. Channelview, Texas 77530. immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or district employee. Liaison For Homeless Children and Youths If there is a need for assistance to help provide services for To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of homeless students please contact Robert Worthy, Assistant the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to Superintendent of Administration at (281-452-8010), CISD conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Administration Building, 1403 Sheldon Rd. Channelview, Allegations will be promptly investigated. The district will Texas 77530. notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited harassment by an adult associated with the district, or by another student, when the allegations, if proven, would constitute “sexual harassment” or “other prohibited harassment” as defined by district policy. If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited harassment occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to
2 EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING . All doors, windows, and classrooms are locked. INFORMATION Students and teachers remain in the classroom until the "All Clear" is given. Stations that may be contacted for Emergency closing are: . No one will be allowed to enter or leave the building. TV STATIONS: RADIO STATIONS: Parents will not be allowed to pick up children from KTRK—Channel 13 KILT 610 AM school. . The local authorities will provide assistance if KHOU—Channel 11 KLVL 1480 AM necessary. (Spanish) . Once the "All Clear" is given students and teachers KPRC--Channel 12 KLAT 1010 AM can return to their regular activities. If needed the (Spanish) parent/student "Reunification" (student pickup) FOX--Channel 26 KTRH 740 AM process will be utilized. UNIVISION--Channel 45 KRBE 104.1 FM (Spanish) SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES TELEMUNDO--Channel KTJM 98.5/103.3 FM
47 (Spanish) (Spanish) Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need KHWB—Channel 39 KKBQ 92.9 FM special education services may request an evaluation of special education at any time. EMERGENCY CRISIS MANAGEMENT INFORMATION Options and Requirements For Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or The Channelview Independent School District has developed May Need Special Education an extensive Crisis Management Plan to address prevention, intervention, and follow-up of crisis situations. The safety of If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may our children is our primary concern. The following contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s procedures will be utilized during certain crisis situations. overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of Shelter In Place support options, including referral for a special education This procedure is used in any situation other than weather that evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom may be a hazard. should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other . This means all windows and doors are locked and the academic or behavior support services that are available to all air-conditioning will be shut off. students including a process based on Response to . No one is allowed to enter or leave a building that has Intervention (RtI). The implementation of RtI has the activated shelter in place procedures. This means that potential to have a positive impact on the ability of local parents will not be able to pick up children from education agencies to meet the needs of all struggling school. It is safer to keep the students inside the students. building rather than expose them to possible harm by At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for allowing them to leave the building. special education services. Within a reasonable amount of . Once the "All Clear" is given, students and teachers time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If will return to their regular activities or a evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to parent/student "Reunification" (student pickup) provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The program may be initiated. district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 . If a school is sheltering in place, parents should also calendar days of the date the district receives the written shelter in place at home. consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the
parent. Shelter In Place, Weather Only This procedure is used when weather conditions exist that may If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the place a school or schools in immediate danger. district will provide the parent with a written notice that . Students and staff are sheltered inside the buildings explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written away from outside windows or doors. notice will include a statement that informs the parent of their . Buildings are open for entry only. rights if they disagree with the district. Additionally, the . There is no exit until the "All Clear" is given. notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the . Normal activities will resume when the "All Clear" is Notice of Procedural Safeguards- Rights of Parents of given, or a student/parent "Reunification" (student Students with Disabilities. Further explanation may be found pickup) program may be initiated. at: http:www.tea.state.tx.us/taa/stanptog042804.html.
The designated person to contact regarding options for a child Lockdown experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is: the Special Services Director at (281) This procedure is used when an intruder invades the premises 452-8006, CISD Annex, 828 Sheldon Rd. Channelview, Texas or there is an imminent danger to the campus. 77530.
3
Channelview Independent School District
ADMINISTRATION
Board of Education
Willie Hodson - President Rolando Ramirez -Vice-President J. Kyle Campbell - Parliamentarian E.B. Garcia - Secretary Steven Dennis - Member Patrick Lacy - Member Keith Liggett - Member
Superintendent
Greg Ollis (281) 452-8008
Assistant Superintendent of Administration
Robert Worthy, Ed.D. (281) 452-8010
Assistant Superintendent of Finance
Kris Lynn (281) 452-8014
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Carla Voelkel (281) 452-8017
Administrators
Nutrition Services Director David Bienvenu (281) 860-3807 Director of Human Resources Kay Kerr (281) 452-8016 Special Services Director Gloria Roach (281) 452-8006 Technology Director Kevin Rich (281) 860-1420 Athletic Director William Jennings (281) 860-3803 Fine Arts Director Kenneth Wright (281) 452-8004 Maintenance Director Mike Lyons (281) 452-8005 Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Carnathan (281) 452-8003 Bilingual/ESL Director Lupita Miles (281) 457-8723 Secondary Curriculum Coordinator Pam Latiolais (281) 860-9825 Elementary Curriculum Coordinator Heather Gilpin (281) 860-9825 Federal Programs Director Ella Moreaux (281) 452-8018 Coordinator of Security Pat Kaptchinskie (281) 452-8002 Career and Technology Director Mia Young (281) 457-7330 Testing Coordinator Shannon Kuhrt (281) 860-3790
Administration Building 1403 Sheldon Road Channelview, Texas 77530 (281) 452-8002 Web Address - http://www.channelview.isd.esc4.net
Tax Office 828 Sheldon Road Channelview, Texas 77530 (281) 457-7323
4 SCHOOL DIRECTORY
Harvey Brown Elementary School 16550 Wallisville Rd. David Walker, Principal (281) 860-1400 8:05 A.M.-3:05 P.M. LaKeisha LeBlanc, Assistant Principal Dr. David Perkins, Assistant Principal Margery Crenshaw Elementary School 16204 Wood Drive (281) 457-3080 7:45 A.M.-2:45 P.M. Audry Lane, Principal Kim Bull, Assistant Principal Mac F. McMullan Elementary School 1290 Dell Dale (281) 452-1154 8:05 A.M.-3:05 P.M. Mike Niemeyer, Principal Linda Craft, Assistant Principal H. C. Schochler Elementary School 910 Deerpass (281) 452-2880 8:05 A.M.-3:05 P.M. Ann Garza, Principal Gina Ervin, Assistant Principal Viola Cobb Elementary School 915 Dell Dale (281) 452-7788 8:45 A.M.-3:45 P.M. Blake Smith, Principal William Chalfant, Assistant Principal DeZavala Elementary School 16150 Second Street (281) 452-6008 7:45 A.M.-2:45 P.M. Manuel Escalante, Principal Stephanie Green, Assistant Principal B. H. Hamblen Elementary School 1019 Dell Dale Janice Powell, Principal (281) 457-8720 7:45 A.M.-2:45 P.M. Diorica Cavazos, Assistant Principal Constance Norfleet, Assistant Principal Alice Johnson Junior High School 15500 Proctor Jules Pichon , Principal (281) 452-8030 8:25 A.M.-3:25 P.M. Isabel Tavella, Assistant Principal Lisa Edgar, Assistant Principal David Mason, Assistant Principal Channelview High School 1100 Sheldon Road Cindi Ollis , Principal Stephen Hinze, Associate Principal Alan Smith, Assistant Principal (281) 452-1450 7: 05 A.M.-2:05 P.M. Janeth Melancon, Assistant Principal Robert Laird – Assistant Principal Cynthia Benitez – Assistant Principal SherrieTolbert,AssistantPrincipal-DeanofInstruction Pre-K Day Care Center
828 Sheldon Road 5:30 A.M.-5:30 P.M. (281) 860-3827 Judy Lee, Principal Apollo (281) 860-3800 8:00 A.M.-3:00 P.M. Endeavor (281) 860-3800 8:25 A.M.-3:30 P.M. Mark Sims, Principal Jerry Neal Health Clinic (281) 457-6350 8:00 A.M.-3:30 P.M. 828 Sheldon Road Kolarik 9th Grade Campus 1120 Sheldon Road Steve McCanless, Principal (713) 378-3400 7: 05 A.M.-2:05 P.M. Abel Narvaez, Assistant Principal Nan Meharg , Assistant Principal
5
PREFACE To Students and Parents:
Welcome to school year 2011–2012! 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 Channelview Independent School District Student Handbook is designed to provide a resource for some of the basic information that you and your child will need during the school year. In an effort to make it easier to use, the handbook is divided into two sections:
Section I—PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES—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 for quick access when searching for information on a specific issue. Please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or any other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student. Both students and parents should become familiar with the Channelview Independent School District 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 is found as an attachment to this handbook.
The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy or other rules that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters or other communications. In case of conflict between board policy (including the Student Code of Conduct) and any provisions of the Student Handbook, the current provisions of board policy and the Student Code of Conduct are to be followed.
After reading through the entire handbook with your child, keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the principal. Also, please complete and return to your child’s campus the following required forms included in this handbook or provided in the forms packet accompanying this handbook:
1. Parental Acknowledgment Form;
2. Student Directory Information and Release of Student Information Form;
Please note that references to policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current board policy. A copy of the district’s policy manual is available for review in the school office or online at www.channelview.isd.esc4.net.
SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES This section of the Channelview Independent School District Student Handbook includes information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.
PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Working Together
Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school. Your involvement in this partnership may include: ■ Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides. ■ Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn. ■ Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district.
6
■ Discussing with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child.
■ Reviewing the requirements of the graduation programs with your child once your child begins enrolling in courses that earn high school credit.
■ Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as needed.
■ Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in- person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office for an appointment. The teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or before or after school.
■ Becoming a school volunteer. For further information, see policies at GKG and contact school principal.
■ Participating in campus parent organizations.
■ Serving as a parent representative on the district-level or campus-level planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact The Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction.
■ Serving on the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), assisting the district in ensuring local community values are reflected in health education instruction. [See policies at BDF, EHAA, FFA.]
■ Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations. [See policies at BE and BED for more information.]
TITLE 1 PARENT LIAISON The Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs is Ana Salinas and may be contacted at (281) 452-8018.
PARENTAL RIGHTS Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights
Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns: ■ Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent.
■ Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.
■ Sexual behavior or attitudes.
■ Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
■ Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship.
■ Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
■ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.
■ Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.
You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For further information, see policy EF(LEGAL).]
7
“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities ■ Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law. [See policies EF and FFAA.]
Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff
You may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers, including whether a teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field of study of the certification or degree. You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide services to your child.
Reviewing Instructional Materials As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child. [Also see Removing a Student from Human Sexuality Instruction on page 8 for additional information.]
Displaying a Student’s Artwork and Projects Teachers may display students’ work in classrooms or elsewhere on campus as recognition of student achievement. However, the district will seek parental consent before displaying students’ artwork, special projects, photographs taken by students, and the like on the district’s Web site, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication.
Accessing Student Records You may review your child’s student records. These records include:
■ Attendance records,
■ Test scores,
■ Grades,
■ Disciplinary records,
■ Counseling records,
■ Psychological records,
■ Applications for admission,
■ Health and immunization information,
■ Other medical records,
■ Teacher and counselor evaluations
■ Reports of behavioral patterns, and
■ State assessment instruments that have been administered to your child.
[See Student Records on page 10 .]
Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student
8 As a parent, you may grant or deny any written request from the district to make a video or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a video or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:
■ When it is to be used for school safety;
■ When it relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or extracurricular activity; or
■ When it relates to media coverage of the school.
Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom You may remove your child temporarily from the classroom if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.
Removing a Student from Human Sexuality Instruction As a part of the district’s curriculum, students receive instruction related to human sexuality. The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) is involved with the selection of course materials for such instruction. State law requires that any instruction related to human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome must:
■ Present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred choice of behavior in relationship to all sexual activity for unmarried persons of school age;
■ Devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity than to any other behavior;
■ Emphasize that abstinence is the only method that is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity;
■ Direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases; and
■ If included in the content of the curriculum, teach contraception and condom use in terms of human use reality rates instead of theoretical laboratory rates. In accordance with state law, below is a summary of the district’s curriculum regarding human sexuality instruction:
As a parent, you are entitled to review the curriculum materials. In addition, you may remove your child from any part of this instruction with no academic, disciplinary, or other penalties. You may also choose to become more involved with the development of curriculum used for this purpose by becoming a member of the district’s SHAC. Please see the campus principal for additional information.
Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags As a parent, you may request that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. The request must be in writing. State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required minute of silence or silent activity that follows. [See Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence on page 43 and policy EC(LEGAL).]
Requesting Limited or No Contact with a Student through Electronic Media Teachers and other approved employees are permitted by the district to communicate with students through the use of electronic media within the scope of the individual’s professional responsibilities. For example, a teacher may set up a social networking page for his or her class that has information related to class work, homework, and tests. As a parent, you are welcome to join or become a member of such a page.
An employee described above may also contact a student individually through electronic media to communicate about items such as homework or upcoming tests.
9
If you prefer that your child not receive any one-to-one electronic communications from a district employee, please submit a written request to the campus principal stating this preference.
Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to his or her child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) or expulsion. [See policy FO(LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.] School Safety Transfers
As a parent, you have a right: ■ To request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been determined by the board or its designee to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus. See the superintendent or designee for information.
The parent of a student who becomes a victim of a violent criminal offense as described above or who is assigned to a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous shall be offered a transfer to a safe public or charter school within the District.
For each transfer requested, the District shall explore transfer options, as appropriate. Opions may include a transfer agreement with another school district.
[See Bullying on page 21, and policy FFI(LOCAL).]
■ To request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense while at school or on school grounds. [See policy FDE(LOCAL).]
■ To request the transfer of your child to another campus [or a neighboring district] if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether theat assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. [See policy FDE.]
Requesting Classroom Assignment for Multiple Birth Siblings As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and campus, you may request that they be placed either in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. Your written request must be submitted no later than the 14th day after the enrollment of your children. [See policy FDB(LEGAL).]
Parents of Students with Disabilities If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her attendance zone, the parent or guardian may request that any other student residing in the household be transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus.[See policy FDB(LOCAL).]
Request for the Use of a Service Animal A parent of a student who uses a service animal because of the student’s disability must submit a request in writing to the principal at least ten district business days before bringing the service animal on campus.
A parent of a student who uses a service animal because of the student’s disability must submit a request in writing to the principal at least ten district business days before bringing the service animal on campus.
Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education Services
If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are
10 available to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention. The implementation of Response to Intervention has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of school districts to meet the needs of all struggling students
At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent. If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of his or her rights if the parent disagrees with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities. The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education services is Gloria Roach at (281) 860-3806.
Parents of Students Who Speak a Primary Language Other than English A student may be eligible to receive specialized support if his or her primary language is not English, and the student has difficulty performing ordinary class work in English. If the student qualifies for these extra services, the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) will determine the types of services the student needs, including accommodations or modifications related to classroom instruction, local assessments, and state-mandated assessments.
Accommodations for Children of Military Families Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district requirements, including:
■ Immunization requirements.
■ Grade level, course, or educational program placement.
■ Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities.
■ Graduation requirements.
In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district. Additional information may be found at http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/mil/.
Student Records Both federal and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and eligible students certain rights of privacy. Before disclosing any personally identifiable information from a student’s records, the district must verify the identity of the person, including a parent or the student, requesting the information. For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education. Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records. Release is restricted to:
■ The parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless the school is given a copy of a court order terminating parental rights or the right to access a student’s education records.
Federal law requires that, as soon as a student becomes 18, is emancipated by a court, or enrolls in a postsecondary institution, control of the records goes to the student. The parents may continue to have access to the records, however, if the student is a dependent for tax purposes and under limited circumstances when there is a threat to the health and safety of the student or other individuals.
■ District school officials who have what federal law refers to as a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. School officials would include trustees and employees, such as the superintendent, administrators, and principals; teachers, counselors, diagnosticians, and support staff; a person or company with whom the district has
11 contracted or allowed to provide a particular service or function (such as an attorney, consultant, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or volunteer); a parent or student serving on a school committee; or a parent or student assisting a school official in the performance of his or her duties. “Legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records includes working with the student; considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or an individualized education program for a student with disabilities; compiling statistical data; reviewing an educational record to fulfill the official’s professional responsibility; or investigating or evaluating programs.
■ Various governmental agencies.
■ Individuals granted access in response to a subpoena or court order ■ A school or institution of postsecondary education to which a student seeks or intends to enroll or in which he or she is already enrolled.
Release to any other person or agency—such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application—will occur only with parental or student permission as appropriate. The [principal or superintendent] is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The [principal or superintendent] is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated.
Records may be inspected by a parent or eligible student during regular school hours. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.
A parent or eligible student who provides a written request and pays copying costs of ten cents per page may obtain copies. If circumstances prevent inspection during regular school hours and the student qualifies for free or reduced- price meals, the district will either provide a copy of the records requested or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review these records. The address of the superintendent’s office is 1403 Sheldon Road, Channelview, Tx 77530.
The address(es) of the principals’ offices are on page 4 of school directory.
A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. A request to correct a student’s record should be submitted to the [principal or superintendent]. The request must clearly identify the part of the record that should be corrected and include an explanation of how the information in the record is inaccurate. If the district denies the request to amend the records, the parent or eligible student has the right to request a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the parent or eligible student has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process found in policy FNG(LOCAL). A grade issued by a classroom teacher can be changed only if, as determined by the board of trustees, the grade is arbitrary, erroneous, or inconsistent with the district’s grading policy.
The district’s policy regarding student records found at FL(LEGAL) and (LOCAL) is available from the principal’s or superintendent’s office or on the district’s Web site at channelview.isd.esc4.net.
The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies of student records do not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records—such as a teacher’s personal notes about a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher—do not have to be made available to the parents or student.
Unless you object to the use of your child’s information for these limited purposes, the school will not need to ask your permission each time the district wishes to use this information for the school-sponsored purposes listed above.
Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education The district is required by federal law to comply with a request by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education for students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless parents have advised the district not to release their child’s information without prior written consent. A form has been attached for you to complete if you do not want the district to provide this information to military recruiters or institutions of higher education.
12
REQUIRED NOTICES
The following information reflects notices required by state law, federal law, or state rules that must be made to students and parents. These notices are addressed within the Channelview ISD 2011-2011 Student Handbook:
■ District efforts to involve parents in the educational system.
■ Consent for student participation in a survey, analysis, or evaluation (if funded in whole or in part with U.S. Department of Education [DOEUSDE] funds).
■ The right to opt out of surveys and data collection activities (for surveys not funded by the DOEUSDE).
■ The right to opt out of a nonemergency invasive physical exam/screening (except for screenings as permitted or required by law).
■ The right to request the professional qualifications of teachers and staff.
■ Whether the district provides human sexuality instruction and the parent’s right to remove the child from this instruction without penalty.
■ The right to request a transfer to a safe public school.
■ Assistance provided to students who have learning difficulties.
■ Student records and the right to access these records.
■ Consent to release directory information.
■ The parent’s right to restrict student information from being provided to military recruiters and institutions of higher education.
■ Warning to parents about potential results of a student’s failure to attend school.
■ Notification of the career and technical education (CTE) programs offered in the district, along with a statement of nondiscrimination in regard to eligibility for these programs.
■ Information regarding child sexual abuse and where to access the district’s plan to recognize symptoms of and prevent child sexual abuse.
■ Automatic admission guidelines to colleges and universities (“top 10 percent” rule).
■ Opportunities to earn college credit.
■ The opportunity to enroll in a course through the Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN).
13 ■ Information about gang-free zones.
■ The grading guidelines of the grade level, subject area, or campus.
■ Notification of the end-of-course assessments required for graduation.
■ Bacterial meningitis information.
■ How the district will comply with children’s physical activity requirements.
■ The number of School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) meetings held during the previous school year. ■ The parent’s right to obtain a copy of his or her child’s physical fitness assessment.
■ Notification of district guidelines regarding vending machines.
■ Notification that the district has adopted policies and has procedures regarding penalties for tobacco use by students or others.
■ Notification of compliance with state and federal guidelines related to asbestos management.
■ Notification of compliance with state and federal guidelines related to pest management.
■ Assistance for homeless students.
■ Required immunizations.
■ Nondiscrimination statement.
■ Notification of local promotion requirements.
■ Grade advancement requirements for students in grades 5 and 8.
■ School lunch/meal programs.
14
15 TABLE OF CONTENTS
FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION……………………………..…...1 PARENT INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITES, AND RIGHTS..41 EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION……………...... 2 PARENTS' "RIGHT TO KNOW"……………………………………41 EMERGENCY CRISIS MANAGEMENT INFORMATION………...... 2 PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT……………………………...42 SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES...... 2 PHYSICAL RESTRAINT…………………………………….………42 ADMINISTRATION………………………………….…..……………...... 3 PLANNING FOR DISTRICT AND CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT….42 SCHOOLDIRECTORY………………………………………………...... 4 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE…………………………………………42 PREFACE…………………………………………….…..…………….....5 PRAYER…………………………………………………….…………42 REQUIRED NOTICES…………………………………………………..12 PRE-KINDERGARTEN…………………………………….………..42 TABLE OF CONTENTS………………………………..………...... 14 PROMOTION AND RETENTION……….………………………….42 DISTRICT POLICY ON THE WEB……………………..………...... 15 PROTECTION OF STUDENT RIGHTS……………………………42 ACCELERATED CREDIT RECOVERY……...... 15 RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL……………………..43 ADMISSION……………………………………………….………….....15 REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS…………………43 ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM…………………………...... 15 GRADING SYSTEM PRE-K ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS………..43 ATTENDANCE……………………………………………………...... 16 GRADING SYSTEM-JUNIOR HIGH AND HIGH SCHOOLS……44 AWARDS, HONORS, AND SCHOLARSHIPS………………….…...18 SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS (STATE)……………………….44 BICYCLES AT SCHOOL………………………………………….…...19 SCHOLASTIC PENALTIES…………………………………………44 BOOK BAGS…………………………………………………….....…...19 SCHOOL BUSES OR OTHER VEHICLES………………………..44 BULLYING………………………………………………………...... 19 SCHOOL FACILITIES………………………..…………….………..45 CAFETERIA SERVICES………………………………………….…....19 SCHOOL RECORDS……………………………….………………..45 CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION...………………...…..19 SCHOOL SAFETY TRANSFERS………………………………….46 CELL PHONE/ ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION AND SEARCHES BY TRAINED DOGS………………………………….46 ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES………………………………………….20 SEARCHES CONDUCTED BY AUTHORITES……………..……46 CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE……………………………………………….20 SEXUAL HARASSMENT……………………………………………47 CLASS RANKING AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT.…………....21 SPECIAL PROGRAMS……………………………………..……….47 COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES…………………………………….....22 STATE MANDATES TESTS………………………………………...47 COLLECTION OF MONEY…………………….…………….……..….22 STUDENT OFFICES AND ELECTIONS…………………………..48 COMMUNICATION BETWEEN HOME AND SCHOOL…………….22 STUDENT/PARENT - SCHEDULE CHANGE/TEACHER COMPLAINTS BY STUDENTS/PARENTS…………………………..22 CHANGE REQUEST…………………………………………………48 COMPUTER RESOURCES…………………………………………….23 STUDENT/PARENT - SCHOOL TRANSFER REQUEST……….48 CONDUCT………………………………………………………………..23 SUMMER SCHOOL………………………………………….……….48 CORRESPONDENCE COURSES…………………………………….24 TARDIES………………………………………………………………48 COUNSELING………………………………………………………..….24 TELEPHONES………………………………………………………..48 COURSE CREDIT………….………………………………………..….24 TEXTBOOKS…………...…………………………………………….48 DATING VIOLENCE...... 25 TOBACCO PROHIBITED……………………………………………48 DAY CARE CENTER...... 26 TRAVEL-SCHOOL-SPONSORED…………………………………49 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE...... 26 TUTORIALS…………………………………………………………..49 DELIVERIES TO THE SCHOOL...... 26 VEHICLES ON CAMPUS……………………………………………49 DISCIPLINE SCHOOL (APOLLO)...... 26 VISITORS……………………………………………………………..49 DISCIPLINE SCHOOL DRESS CODE (APOLLO)...... 26 VENDING MACHINES………………………………………….…....49 DISTANCE LEARNING……………………………………………...…27 VIDEOTAPES/VOICE RECORDINGS…………………………...... 49 DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL...... 27 WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL………………………………….49 DRESS AND GROOMING...... 27 YMCA AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM……………………………...50 DRESS CODE...... 27 ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY………………………………………50 CHANNELVIEW HIGH SCHOOL & L.W. KOLARIK CENTER...... 27 GLOSSARY…………………………………………………………..51 K - 6TH ...... 28 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT…………………………………..53 7TH - 8TH...... 30 PURPOSE…………………………….………………………….…....54 DRILLS - FIRE, TORNADO, AND OTHER EMERGENCY DRILLS31 BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS………………………………………54 DROPOUT PREVENTION PROGRAM (ENDEAVOR)...... 31 CONSEQUENCES…………………………………………...... 54 DUAL CREDIT COURSES/COLLEGE COURSE WORK...... 31 DISCRETIONARY REMOVAL………………………………………56 EARLY ARRIVALS TO SCHOOL...... 32 FORMAL REMOVAL BY A TEACHER……………………………56 ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY……………………..32 EMERGENCY PLACEMENT OR EXPULSION…………………..57 EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT...... 32 SUSPENSION………………………………………………………...58 EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND REMOVAL TO AN ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM…58 ORGANIZATIONS…………………………………………………...... 33 EXPULSION…………………………………………………………..59 FEES…………………………………………………...... ……….....33 DISCIPLINE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS UNDER FUND RAISING…………………………………………….………...... 33 THE INDIVIDIALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT…...60 GANG-FREE ZONES…………………………………….………...... 33 LEVELS OF DISCIPLINE…………………………………………..64 GANG RELATED BEHAVIOR………………………...……………....34 APPENDIX…………………………………………………………...69 GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITES………………….……………...... 34 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORMS…………………………………..70 GRADE POINT AVERAGE……………………...... …………....35 SCHOOL-STUDENT COMPACT………………………………….72 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS…………….……...…………...... 35 ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS POLICY AND AUTOMATIC ADMISSION TO COLLEGES………………………....36 ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS……………………………….73 HAZING…………………………………………………………………..37 GLOSSARY…………………………………………………………..77 HALL PASSES………………………………...…..…..…………...... 37 HEALTH CARE………………………………...…....…………..…...... 37 SCHOOL HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCIL………………………...... 39 HEALTH RELATED MATTERS……………...…....…………..…...... 39 HOMEBOUND PROGRAM…………………………..…………...... 39 HOMEWORK……………………………………………..………...... 40 IN LOCO PARENTIS……………………………….……..…...... 40 LOCKERS…………………………………………………..…...... 40 LOST AND OVERDUE BOOKS………………….……….…...... 40 MINUTE OF SILENCE…..…………………...... ….……….....…...... 40 ON CAMPUS POLICY………………………….….……...…...... 40 PARENTING EDUCATION PROGRAM(PEP)……………………….40
16 SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT HELP PLAN FOR OUR FUTURE
INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND We have initiated an integrated planning process for district PARENTS and campus improvements. We appreciate suggestions and recommendations you are willing to share with us. You can DISTRICT POLICY ON THE WEB present them through the district web site, by calling (281) 452-8017, or in writing to the district’s curriculum office. No Each campus and the superintendent’s office have a copy of anonymous suggestions or recommendations will be accepted. "District Policy." The policies may also be accessed through The district improvement team, the superintendent, board of the Internet by using the following address: trustees, and appropriate campus planning team will review all suggestions and recommendations. http://www.channelview.isd.esc4.net ACCELERATED CREDIT RECOVERY The district provides the Student Handbook and/or Channelview High School offers students in grades 9 thru 12 the Student Code of Conduct electronically (by who have failed a core area course within the previous year, posting it on the district’s Web site), the student and may qualify for a second opportunity to earn credit. parent should have the option to receive a paper Accelerated Credit Recovery (ACR) is a program designed to copy. help students achieve mastery and regain credit. Students must apply through their counselor. Each student is given individualized instruction designed to help him or her master the required course objectives. After mastering the core
PLEASE NOTE objectives, students will take a criterion-referenced final exam to regain credit for the course. Once the student successfully passes the final exam, a grade of 70 will be posted on his/her transcript. For more information call (281) 457-7305.
ADMISSION
School organizations, student clubs, performing groups such In general, the student, parent, or person standing in parental as the band, choir, drill, JROTC, LOTC, and athletic teams relation, must reside within the district to be eligible to be may establish stricter codes of conduct and have eligibility enrolled and maintain enrollment. The district has established rules. Any such code of conduct and/or rules should be in procedures to accept nonresident students of full-time district writing, on file in the principal’s office, and approved by the employees. The district has established procedures to accept superintendent and/or board of trustees. nonresident students other than an employee’s child based on
tuition. District alternative schools may have different rules, requirements, and procedures than those outlined in this The superintendent has the authority to revoke the transfer of a handbook. transfer student for violating the District's Student Code of Conduct. In case of a conflict between Board Policy (including Student Code of Conduct) and any provisions of the Resident students who become nonresidents during the course Student Handbook, the provisions of Board Policy or the of a semester may be permitted to continue attendance for the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted remainder of the semester. Seniors may be allowed to by the Board are to be followed. complete their senior year.
A person who knowingly falsifies information regarding IMPORTANT FORMS residency shall be liable for the maximum tuition fee the (Located in the "Appendix" Section of the Handbook) district may charge. The district may withdraw students who do not meet residency requirements. [District Policy FD] Please complete and return the following forms to your child's school. ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM
1. Student Records The district offers the College Board’s Advanced Placement 2. Waiver for Corporal Punishment *(Not a requirement (AP) Program for dedicated high school students who are to return this form. Return only if applicable.) seeking to complete college-level studies while they are still in 3. Student and Parent Acknowledgement high school and to obtain college placement or credit on the 4. School-Student Compact basis of their performance on rigorous AP Examinations. 5. Publicity Release
6. Student Agreement for Acceptable Use of the The district has the belief that all students who are motivated Electronic Communications System should have the opportunity to empower themselves to pursue academic excellence. AP course standards are prepared by
17 College Board Development Committees. The AP Program is approved by the principal, that allows the student to fulfill nationally recognized for educational excellence. Taking an the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved AP Examination offers students the challenge of competing in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the with one’s peers on national and international levels. judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student Follow-up studies show that students with AP experience are receives credit for the class. more likely than their non-AP peers to persist in college, If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or graduate with a double major, and go on to graduate school. has not completed a plan approved by the principal, then the student Students enrolled in AP courses at CHS are encouraged to will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine take the AP examination. For more information contact any whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how high school counselor. the student can regain credit, if appropriate. [See policies at FEC.]
ATTENDANCE Driver License Attendance Verification For a student between the ages of 16 and 18 to obtain a driver license, the Texas Department of Public Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make Safety must be provided written parental consent to access the student’s records for purposes of the most of his or her education, to benefit from teacher-led verifying 90 percent attendance for credit for the semester. and school activities, to build each day’s learning on the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. [District Policies Parent Contributing to Non Attendance FEA, FEB, EHBC, and EIE]
A parent, including a person standing in parental relation, fails Parent Notification of Student Absences to require the child to attend school as required by law If possible, each day a student is absent from school the parent commits an offense of contributing to non attendance in accordance with [Education Code 25.093, 25.094] if: or legal guardian will be notified by a telephone call. 1. After being warned that the child's attendance at
school is immediately required, with criminal Compulsory Attendance negligence fails to require the child to attend school State law requires that a student between the ages of 6 and 18 as required by law; or, attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction 2. The child has unexcused voluntary absences for (i) 10 or more days or parts of days within a 6 month programs, extended year programs, or tutorial sessions, unless period, or (ii) 3 or more days or parts of days within a the student is otherwise legally exempt or excused. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her eighteenth 4 week period. birthday is required to attend each school day. If a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, Present for Attendance Purposes the District may revoke the student's enrollment. The student's [Education Code 25.087] and 19TAC allow a district, if there presence on school property thereafter is then unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. School employees must is parental consent, to count as present for ADA purposes investigate and report violations of the state compulsory students who are absent for any of the following attendance law. A student absent without permission from circumstances: school, from any class, from required special programs, such 1. Participation in a Board-approved and appropriately as additional special accelerated instruction and from required supervised extracurricular activity or performance; tutorials, will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to disciplinary action. Violating [FEB (Legal)] compulsory attendance law may also result in an assessment 2. Participation in an approved mentorship fulfilling the of penalty by a court of law against the student and his or her student's Distinguished Achievement Program; parents. 3. Screening, diagnosis, or treatment of a Medicaid- eligible student (if the student is absent no more than
a day at a time for this purpose); If kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program under 4. Religious holy days (including one day of travel to state law, compulsory attendance applies to attendance in the and one day from an observation site); and reading program. Parents will be notified in writing if their 5. An appointment with a health care professional (if child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program the student misses only a portion of the school day and the professional provides written confirmation of as a result of the reading diagnosis test. [District Policy EHBC (LEGAL)] the appointment).
Excused Absences Attendance Policy
Attendance for Credit The district accepts the following as extenuating circumstances for the purpose of granting credit for a class To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 [FEB (Legal) Sec. 25.087]: percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is 1) A person required to attend school, including a person offered may receive credit for the class if he or she completes a plan, required to attend school under Section 25.085(e), may be
18 excused for temporary absence resulting from any cause day of excused travel for traveling to the site acceptable to the principal, or superintendent (his/her where the student will take part in the ceremony designee) of the school in which the person is enrolled. and up to one day of excused travel for traveling from that site. 2) A school district shall excuse a student from attending ix) The student is visiting an institution of higher school for the following purposes, including travel for education accredited by a generally recognized those purposes: accrediting organization and visit is approved by the High School principal prior to the visit. A i) The student is participating in an activity that is district may not excuse for this purpose more than approved by the local board of school trustees and 2 days during a student’s junior year and 2 days is under the direction of a member of the during a student’s senior year. professional staff of the school district, or an x) The student is any Grades 6-12 and is sounding adjunct staff member who: “Taps” at a military honors funeral held in Texas for a deceased veteran. Limited to 2 visits during (A) Has a minimum of a bachelor’s degree; and junior year and 2 visits during senior year. (B) Is eligible for participation in the Teacher xi) Documented health care appointment including Retirement System of Texas. absences for students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. ii) The student is participating in a mentorship approved by district personnel to serve as one or Or more of the advanced measures needed to complete the Distinguished Achievement Program xii) A temporary absence resulting from health care outlined in Chapter 74 of this title (relating to professionals if that student commences classes Curriculum Requirements). or returns to school on the same day of the iii) The student is a Medicaid-eligible child appointment participating in the Early and Periodic Screening. Diagnosis, and Treatment Program implemented A temporary absence resulting from health care by the Texas Health and Human Service professionals if that student commences classes or returns Commission. Such students may be excused for to school on the same day of the appointment up to one day at any time without loss of ADA. iv) The student is observing holy days as provided in Unexcused Absences the Texas Education Code (TEC), 25.087. A student who is observing holy days is allowed up The district will consider the following reasons to be to day of excused travel for traveling to the site unexcused absences, but not limited to: where the student will observe the holy days and up to one day of excused travel for traveling from . Truancy or cutting a class that site. . Working v) The student is attending a required court . Missing the school bus appearance . A student who is attending a required . Shopping court appearance is allowed up to day of excused . Oversleeping travel for traveling to the site where the student . Car trouble will attend the required court appearance and up . Vacation to one day of excused travel for traveling from . Personal business that site. vi) The student is serving as an election clerk. A A student absent from school for any reason, other than those student who is serving as an election clerk is listed under "present for attendance purposes", will not be allowed up to day of excused travel for traveling allowed to participate in school related activities on that day or to the site where the student will serve as an evening unless a waiver is granted by the campus principal. election clerk and up to one day of excused travel This also applies to participating on Saturday when the for traveling from that site. absence occurs on Friday. vii) The student is appearing at a governmental office to complete paperwork required in connection In those rare circumstances when a student must be absent with the student’s application for United States from school, the student, within three days of returning to citizenship. A student who is appearing at a school, must bring a note, signed by the parent, that describes governmental office to complete such paperwork the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even is allowed up to day of excused travel for with parent’s permission, will not be accepted. *FERPA – traveling to the site where the student will Family Education Right to Privacy Act. complete the paperwork and up to one day of excused travel for traveling from that site. Failure to provide written documentation within three days of viii) The student is taking part in a United States absence shall result in an unexcused absence. naturalization oath ceremony. A student who is taking part in such a ceremony is allowed up to
19 Once a student’s absences per semester exceed 10% of the discipline option is considered an unexcused absence and will time that a class is offered, additional documentation will be be subject to a grade penalty. required with any parent note in order for the absence to be considered an excused/extenuating circumstance absence. The grade for make-up work after an unexcused absence shall be no higher than 70. Attendance Committees Withdrawal For Nonattendance Only documentation provided by a professional health care provider, or in court related matters by legal authorities, will The district may initiate withdrawal of a student for be accepted for absenteeism. A review by the attendance nonattendance under the following conditions: committee will be required if a student's absences exceed 10% 1. The student has been absent ten consecutive school of the semester. The committee will meet twice a month, or as days; needed, at a set time and place according to a regular schedule. 2. Repeated efforts by attendance officer and/or principal Parents and students MUST attend the attendance committee to locate the student have been unsuccessful. meeting. Documentation for any absence to be excused may TRUANCY CHARGES (BY COURT RULING) be submitted. The committee may assign one or more of the following as a condition to regaining credit: Truancy reporting is a federally mandated requirement under NCLB. Filing charges with the court does not constitute 1. Complete additional assignments, as specified by the truancy in and of itself. committee A 425 record on truancy can only be generated after the court 2. Satisfy time-on-task requirements before and/or after has made a finding (disposition/order) of truancy. school 3. Attend tutorial sessions as scheduled 42 Parent Contributing to Truancy (failure to attend 4. Attend Saturday school school) – TEC 25.093 (a) 5. Maintain the attendance standards for the rest of the year 43 Student With at Least 3 Unexcused Absences 6. Community or campus service (failure to attend school) – TEC 25.094 44 Student with 10 Unexcused Absences (failure to In all cases, the student must also earn a passing grade in order attend school) – TEC 25.094 to receive credit. 45 Student Failure to Enroll in School (failure to If, during a school year, the attendance review committee is attend school) – TEC 25.085 petitioned to develop a second plan, the only condition that will be authorized is a “time requirement” either after school AWARDS (Yearly) or on Saturday. 1. Perfect Attendance = No absences, no tardies. The Appeals front office will be responsible for making changes to reflect any absences recorded after May 24th. The decision of the campus attendance committee to deny credit may be appealed to a three member District Appeals 2. Superintendent’s Honor Roll = All A’s for each six Committee. [District Policy FNG and FEC (Local)] weeks. No grade lower than A on the report card. No N’s or U’s in, PE, Art, or Music. Make Up Work for Absences 3. Principal’s Honor Roll = Final grade is an A average. No grade lower than a B on the report card. No N’s or It is the student’s responsibility to request missing U’s in, PE, Art, or Music. assignments. It is the student’s responsibility to go to the 4. Conduct is not considered in determining honor roll teacher after being absent and find out what has been missed awards. and to make the effort to catch up on material missed.
Perfect Attendance Awards: Parents may request assignments for a student who will be absent more than three days for personal illness by calling the . The official district daily attendance roll is taken at school office 24 hours in advance. 9:30 A.M. each day.
Students will be allowed one day for each day absent to make . Students absent at the time the attendance roll is up work. Work that is assigned when the student is present taken are counted absent. Students present at the must be turned in on the first day a student returns from being time the attendance is taken are counted present. absent. All tests assigned while the student is present must be taken on the first day back. Distinguished Honor Roll: An annual award given to each student who has all A’s or E’s in academic If a student is suspended, the student’s absence shall be courses. considered to be an excused absence. The district shall not Honor Roll: An award given each grading period to impose a grade penalty for make-up work after an absence each student who has an A or E average in all because of suspension. A suspension selected by a parent as a academic courses.
20 Please Note: Each campus shall have on available in English and Spanish to students at every campus file the eligibility criteria for honor roll, office, cafeteria or the nutrition department. A new National Honor Society, etc. application must be filled out each new school year. Only one form should be turned in for the entire household. If Scholarships: Channelview High School has the household income falls within the income guidelines as set counselors to help students with scholarships. by USDA each year, then you will be notified through a letter mailed to the address listed on the application. BICYCLES AT SCHOOL All students have a personal meal account and prepayment is Students may ride bicycles to school. Bicycles must be walked accepted for breakfast, lunch and snacks. Prepayments may on and off the school grounds. Bicycle serial numbers should be made by cash or check at each campus cafeteria. Checks be recorded in a safe place at home. The district is not should be made payable to your school cafeteria and should responsible for loss or damage to bicycles. Bicycles must be include the student’s name and I.D. number. Prepayments parked correctly and left only in specified parking areas. Each may also be made on-line at: www.channelview.isd.esc4.net student must provide his or her own chain and lock for the click on Cafeteria Menus, click on pay cafeteria meals online, bicycle. Students are asked NOT to bring skates, skateboards, enter your child’s last name and Student ID#, click on History and tennis shoes with wheels to school. to view account history or click on PrePay. Credit Card or Debit Card may be used for a $2.00 convenience fee. BOOK BAGS Students who wish to receive a refund of $20 or more from Only clear or mesh book bags will be allowed on school their meal account must bring a signed note from a parent or property or at school sponsored events. No book bags are guardian to the cafeteria manager. Please let the cafeteria allowed at Apollo. manager know ahead of time so the funds will be available.
BULLYING Parents who want to limit their child’s spending must send a letter to their cafeteria manager with their child’s name and Bullying occurs when a student or group of students directs I.D. number and the amount of their limit per day. written or verbal expressions or physical conduct against another student and the behavior results in harm to the student Neither the district, TEA nor USDA will allow us to serve or the student’s property, places a student in fear of physical meals without payment. Our district will offer a peanut butter harm or of damage to the student’s property, or is so severe, and jelly sandwich with a carton of milk to any student persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, without lunch money. Should the student require a sandwich threatening, or abusive educational environment. three times in a row, we will refer the student’s lack of a meal to a campus principal. You may contact the nutrition Bullying could include hazing, threats, taunting, teasing, assault, department for any additional assistance in regards to students demands for money, confinement, destruction of property, theft of without lunch money. valued possessions, name-calling, rumor-spreading, and ostracism. In some cases, bullying can occur through electronic methods, School Meal Prices called “cyberbullying.” Breakfast Price Lunch Price
No Charge $1.60 If a student believes that he or she has experienced bullying, it is th Grades PK-5 important for the student or parent to notify a teacher, counselor, th th Grades 6 -12 No Charge $1.85 principal, or another district employee. The administration will investigate any allegations of bullying and will take appropriate Reduced Price No Charge $ .40 disciplinary action if an investigation indicates that bullying has occurred. Adults & Visitors $1.50 $2.75 [See Legal and FFI (LOCAL) and policy FDE (LOCAL).] Drinking water will be available at all campuses during each CAFETERIA SERVICES meal service. Please contact your campus principal for details.
Channelview I.S.D. Nutrition Services is operated in For further information please call the Nutrition Service accordance with USDA’s National School Lunch & Breakfast Department at (281)-860-3807. Program and the Summer Feeding Program guidelines. Our cafeterias must serve meals according to USDA guidelines in order to receive federal reimbursements. Channelview School CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION district also participates in a “Universal School Breakfast Program” on all campuses. All CISD students are offered a The district offers career and technology programs in complimentary breakfast at no charge every school day. Industrial Education, Home Economics, Office Education, Marketing and Distribution, and Vocational Agriculture. Free and Reduced Lunch Applications are sent home to all Admission to these programs is based on career intent, students at the beginning of each school year. To qualify for attendance habits, and the attitude of the student. The district the Free or Reduced-price meal benefits, a student’s parent or will take steps to ensure that a lack of English language skills guardian must fill out an application. The application is will not be a barrier to admission or participation in any
21 educational and career and technology programs. disciplinary action as outlined in the Student [Channelview ISD] will take steps to ensure that lack of Handbook may be taken. English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and CTE programs. • Third and Subsequent Offenses—District personnel [Also see Nondiscrimination Statement on page 1 for shall confiscate the cell phone/device and turn it in to additional information regarding the district’s efforts the appropriate administrator and released to the regarding participation in these programs.] For further parent/guardian at the end of one week (five school information call the CTE Director at (281) 457-7330. days) after an administrative conference, and payment of an administrative fee of $15 cash, as CELL PHONE/ ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION authorized by the Texas Education Code [TEC— AND ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES (ECED) 37.082] and School Board Policy. In addition, if a student is disrespectful or refuses to release the cell During the instructional school day, students are prohibited phone a Level II or higher disciplinary action as from using all telecommunication and entertainment devices outlined in the Student Handbook may be taken. such as, but not limited to, cellular phones, camera/video phones, pagers/beepers, PDA’s, handheld games, mp3 players, Students who need to use a telephone during the school day camcorders, and DVD players. Such devices must not be may use one of the school phones, which are available for visible and must remain turned off during the instructional day student use, upon request, and based on need. (each campus will list their instructional day—1st period tardy bell and afternoon dismissal bell). Cell phones should not be CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE visible. Placing the cell phone into silent/vibrate mode and text messaging is not considered “turned off” and is The district has established a plan for addressing child sexual prohibited. Students may NOT use cell phones, PDA’s, etc. to abuse, which may be accessed at each campus. As a parent, it check the time. The use of cell phones in locker rooms or is important for you to be aware of warning signs that could restroom areas, at any time during the instructional day, is indicate a child may have been or is being sexually abused. strictly prohibited. Sexual abuse in the Texas Family Code is defined as any sexual conduct harmful to a child’s mental, emotional, or Using any device that permits recording the voice or image of physical welfare as well as a failure to a make a reasonable another in any way that either disrupts the educational effort to prevent sexual conduct with a child. Anyone who environment, invades the privacy of others, or is made without suspects that a child has been or may be abused or neglected the prior consent of the individuals being recorded is has a legal responsibility, under state law, for reporting the prohibited. Electronic equipment is subject to search in the suspected abuse or neglect to law enforcement or to Child event school administrators believe reasonable suspicion Protective Services. exists to support the search. Possible physical warning signs of sexual abuse could be The instructional day begins when the 1st period tardy bell difficulty sitting or walking, pain in the genital areas, and rings and ends when the afternoon dismissal bell rings. The claims of stomachaches and headaches. Behavioral indicators instructional day will extend through detention hall and may include verbal references or pretend games of sexual tutorials, when appropriate. activity between adults and children, fear of being alone with adults of a particular gender, or sexually suggestive behavior. • First Offense – District personnel shall confiscate the Emotional warning signs to be aware of include withdrawal, cell phone/device and turn it in to the appropriate depression, sleeping and eating disorders, and problems in administrator. The device may be released to the school. parent/guardian after a 24-hour waiting period, an administrative conference, and payment of an A child who has experienced sexual abuse should be administrative fee of $15 cash, as authorized by the encouraged to seek out a trusted adult. Be aware as a parent or Texas Education Code [TEC-37.082 and School other trusted adult that disclosures of sexual abuse may be Board Policy]. In addition, if a student is more indirect than disclosures of physical abuse, and it is disrespectful or refuses to release the cell phone a important to be calm and comforting if your child, or another Level II or higher disciplinary action as outlined in child, confides in you. Reassure the child that he or she did the the Student Handbook may be taken. right thing by telling you.
• Second Offense – District personnel shall confiscate As a parent, if your child is a victim of sexual abuse, the the cell phone/device and turn it in to the appropriate campus counselor or principal will provide information administrator and released to the parent/guardian regarding counseling options for you and your child available after a 48-hour waiting period, an administrative in your area. conference, and payment of an administrative fee of $15 cash, as authorized by the Texas Education Code The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services [TEC—37.082] and School Board Policy. In (TDFPS) also manages early intervention counseling addition, if a student is disrespectful or refuses to programs. To find out what services may be available in your release the cell phone a Level II or higher county, see
22 http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Prevention_and_Early_Interventio college or university to report grades and credit in a timely n/Programs_Available_In_Your_County/default.asp. manner for rank-in-class or graduation.
The following Web sites might help you become more aware Ranking in class for graduates shall be determined after the of child sexual abuse: completion of the first semester of their senior year. The total class size shall be the number of classified seniors plus the http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index.aspx?id=2820 number of declared early high school graduates on the first http://sapn.nonprofitoffice.com/ instructional day of the second semester. A declared early http://www.taasa.org/member/materials2.php high school graduate is defined as a student who has on file in http://www.oag.state.tx.us.AG_Publications/txts/childabuse1.s the counseling office, no later than the last day of the first six html weeks of the school year in which he/she plans to graduate, http://www.oag.state.tx.us/AG_Publications/txts/childabuse2.s his/her intent to graduate early. Foreign exchange students html shall not be ranked with graduating seniors nor declared early graduates. Reports may be made to: AUTOMATIC ADMISSION TO COLLEGES AND The Child Protective Service (CPS) division of the Texas UNIVERSITIES Department of Family and Protective Services (1-800-252- 5400 or on the Web at http://www.txabusehotline.org). Students who are in the top 10 percent of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission to any public university in CLASS RANKING AND ACADEMIC Texas*. ACHIEVEMENT To be eligible for automatic admission, a student must: Unofficial class ranking shall occur at the end of the first semester of the freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior years. • Graduate in the top 10 percent of his or her class at a The weighted grade point scale shall be used to compute class public or private high school in Texas, or rank. • Graduate in the top 10 percent of his or her class from Students who are ranked in the top ten percent of their a high school operated by U.S. Department of graduating class are eligible for a period of two school years Defense and be a Texas resident or eligible to pay following their graduation for automatic admission into Texas resident tuition; general academic universities and colleges. Beginning with • Enroll in college no more than two-years after the 2011-2012 academic year, The University of Texas at graduating from high school; and Austin may cap the number of students it admits under SB 175 • Submit an application to a Texas public university for to 75 percent of the enrollment for incoming resident admission before the institution’s application deadline undergraduate students. (check with the university regarding specific deadlines). Ranking in class shall be computed by totaling the weighted • Students admitted through this route may still be grade points attained for approved courses and dividing by the required to provide SAT or ACT scores, although number of attempted credits taken in grades 9-12. Approved these scores are not used for admissions purposes. courses are defined as those courses meeting the requirements Students must also take the THEA test, unless of the Recommended High School Diploma and/or the exempted from the test requirements. Check with the Distinguished Achievement Diploma. Any letter grade shall admissions office regarding THEA, SAT, and ACT be equated to the mid point scale for that class. Courses taken requirements…) in summer or evening school, as well as correspondence courses, shall not count towards rank in class. Courses taken After a student is admitted, the university may review the for concurrent college credit, in lieu of a class during the student’s high school records to determine if the student is regular school day, shall count toward rank in class. Credit prepared for college-level work. A student who needs will be awarded for high school graduation upon receipt of an additional preparation may be required to take a official college transcript showing the grade and credit earned developmental, enrichment, or orientation course during the in the approved course. Three hours of college credit shall semester prior to the first semester of college. equal one-half unit of high school credit. Honors level grade points will be awarded for credit earned under this policy only Admission to a university does not guarantee acceptance into a if the same course is offered in the high school. [District particular college of study or department. Policy EHDD (Local)] Students must have the principal’s approval both for the course to be taken and the college or Regardless of class ranking, all students are encouraged to university offering the credit prior to enrolling. Any course apple to the college of their choice. taken for credit recovery on campus or through an approved institution shall not be used to compute class rank in class. *SB 175, passed by the 81st Legislature, modifies the top 10 Neither Channelview High School nor the District is percent admissions program for The University of Texas at responsible for securing records from the college or university. Austin. Beginning with college admissions for the 2011 Neither assumes liability resulting from the failure of the summer/fall class, the University of Texas at Austin will
23 automatically admit all eligible applicants who rank within the COMPLAINTS BY STUDENTS / PARENTS top 8% of their high school class, with remaining spaces to be filled through holistic review. Usually, student and parent complaints or concerns can be addressed simply by a phone call or conference with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be so COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES easily handled, the district has adopted a standard complaint policy at [District Policy FNG (LOCAL)] in the District’s Students in grades 9–12 have opportunities to earn college policy manual. A copy of this policy is contained on the credit through the following methods: District’s Web site at www.channelview.isd.esc4.net ■ Certain courses taught at the high school campus, which may include courses termed dual credit, Advanced Placement . In general, a parent or student should first raise the (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB); complaint with the campus principal within 15 calendar ■ Enrollment in an AP or dual credit course through the Texas days of the event(s) causing the complaint. Virtual School Network; ■ Enrollment in courses taught in conjunction and in . If unresolved, a written complaint and request for a partnership with San Jacinto Junior College; conference should be sent to Robert Worthy, Assistant ■ Enrollment in courses taught at the following institutions in Superintendent of Administration at 281-452-8010. Prior the district: [list entities/institutions in the district at which a to or at this conference, the parent or student shall submit student can earn college credit]; and a written complaint that includes a statement of the ■ Certain CTE courses. complaint and any evidence in its support, the solution sought, the parent and/or student’s signature, and the date All of these methods have eligibility requirements and must be of the conference with the principal. approved prior to enrollment in the course. Please see the counselor for more information. . If still unresolved, the district provides for complaints to be presented to the Board of Trustees, members of the COLLECTION OF MONEY community elected to set policy and priorities for the district. [District Policy FNG] No person or group will be permitted to collect money for any purpose within the school or on school property without Please Note: Some complaints require different written permission from the principal. procedures. Any campus office or the superintendent’s office can provide information COMMUNICATION BETWEEN HOME AND regarding specific complaints for the following: SCHOOL . Discrimination on the basis of gender. [District Policy Good communication between home and school regarding a FB] child’s education is more than a “plus.” It is essential for the student to make the most of the opportunities provided. . Sexual abuse or sexual harassment of a student. [District School communication starts with information documents Policy FFH] such as this handbook, progress reports and report cards, student work for parents to review and sign, and continuous . Loss of credit on the basis of attendance. [District Policy interaction: messages and phone calls for teachers, and school FEC] open houses or back-to-school nights, for instance. Communication might also include request for conferences, . Teacher removal of a student for disciplinary reasons. initiated by the school or the parent, to discuss student [District Policy FOA] progress, to find out more about the curriculum and how the parent can support learning, to head off or resolve problems, . Removal of a student to a disciplinary alternative etc. A parent who wants to schedule a phone or in-person educational program. [District Policy FOC] conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal should call the school office at the campus for an appointment. Parents . Expulsion of a student. [District Policy FOD] must sign up for Home Access to be able to view their child’s grades, discipline and attendance through their child’s campus. . Identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a [See campus administrator] student with a disability. [District Policy EHBA,FOF]
Generally, the staff will be able to meet with parents or return . Instructional materials. [District Policy EFA] calls within 24 hours. If a campus is not responsive to a request for a conference, please contact the superintendent’s . On-campus distribution of non-school materials to office for assistance at (281) 452-8008. students. [District Policy FNAA]
. Complaints against district peace officers. [District Policy CKE]
24 COMPUTER RESOURCES answers-as one’s own. Plagiarism is the use of another person’s original ideas or writing without giving credit to the District resources have been invested in computer technology true author. A student found to have engaged in academic to broaden instruction and to prepare students for an dishonesty will be given a zero for the work in question and increasingly computerized society. Use of these resources is subject to other disciplinary penalties in accordance with the restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision Student Code of Conduct. Academic dishonesty includes and for approved instructional purposes only. cheating or copying the work of another student, plagiarism, and unauthorized communication between students during an Access to the District's electronic communications system examination. The determination that a student has engaged in including the Internet, shall be made available to students and academic dishonesty shall be based on the judgment of the employees primarily for instructional and administrative classroom teacher or another supervising professional purposes and in accordance with administrative regulations. employee, taking into consideration written materials, Access to the District's electronic communications system is a observation, or information from students. [District Policy privilege, not a right. All users shall be required to EIA (Local)] acknowledge receipt and understanding of administrative regulations governing use of the system and shall agree in Corporal Punishment writing to allow monitoring of their use and compliance with such regulations and guidelines. Noncompliance may result in Corporal punishment-spanking or paddling the student-may be suspension of access or termination of privileges and other used as a discipline management technique in accordance with disciplinary action consistent with District policies. [See DH, the Student Code of Conduct. Corporal punishment will be FN series, FO series, and the Student Code of Conduct] governed by the following conditions: Electronic mail transmissions and other use of the electronic communications system by students and employees are not . Parents have the responsibility to notify the principal if private and may be monitored at any time by designated they object to the use of corporal punishment. Objections District staff to ensure appropriate use. shall be signed by the parent and submitted in writing each year. CONDUCT . The student will be told the reason for the corporal Students are expected to behave in a responsible manner, punishment. demonstrating courtesy and respect for the rights of other students and district staff. Student cooperation and respect for . The punishment may be administered only by the the property of others, including district property and principal or another professional employee. facilities, is essential to the maintenance of facilities, safety, order, and discipline. Attending all classes regularly and on . The punishment will be administered in the presence of time, being prepared for each class, and taking appropriate one other district professional employee and out of view materials and assignments to class is expected of all students. of other students. Students are to be well groomed and dressed appropriately each day. . The principal or a designee may choose not to use corporal punishment even if the parent has requested it. As required by law, the district has developed a Student Code of Conduct that establishes behavior standards, both on and . A record will be maintained of each instance of corporal off campus, and consequences for failure to abide by the punishment via a Student Code of Conduct violation standards. Students need to be familiar with the standards set referral. This record shall be sent home within 24 hours. out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules, in order to avoid violation and the subsequent . Paddles used for administering corporal punishment shall consequences. not be generally displayed and shall be under the control of the principal. The district has jurisdiction over the students during the school day and while going to and from school on district . Corporal punishment shall be limited to spanking and transportation. The district’s jurisdiction includes any activity shall consist of no more than three swats. during the school day on school grounds (or within 500 feet of school property), attendance at any school-related activity, . Before corporal punishment is used, the campus will give regardless of time or location, and any school-related students a choice between other disciplinary measures. misconduct, regardless of time or location. Additionally, according to state law, discipline may be imposed for certain Detention off campus behavior(s) listed in this code of conduct. Students may be detained outside of school hours on one or Academic Dishonesty / Cheating / Plagiarism more days if a student violates the school’s rules. The detention may begin the day after assignment; parents shall be Academic dishonesty, as in cheating or plagiarism, is not notified by either the school or the student. Transportation acceptable. Cheating includes the copying of another arrangements should be made by parents on the day(s) of student’s work-such as homework, class work, or test
25 detention. Parents may choose Saturday school instead of by many colleges and universities, as well as information detention. about financial aid and housing.
Parties and Social Events Please Note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test or treatment without The rules of good conduct and grooming will be observed at first obtaining the parent’s written consent. Parental school events held outside the regular school day. Guests are consent is not necessary when a psychological expected to observe the same rules as students attending the examination, test, or treatment is required by state or event, and the person inviting the guest will share federal law for special education purposes or by the responsibility for the conduct of the guest. A student Texas Education Agency for child abuse attending a party or social event may be asked to sign out investigations and reports. when leaving before the end of the party; anyone leaving before the official end of the party will not be readmitted. COURSE CREDIT
Violation of Law- Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco, and A student in grades 9–12 will earn credit for a course only if Weapons the final grade is 70 or above. For a two-semester (1 credit) Under state and federal law, a student is not allowed to course, the student’s grades from both semesters will be possess, sell, give away, or use alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco averaged and credit will be awarded if the combined average products, guns, or other weapons on school property or at a is 70 or above. Should the student’s combined average be less school-related or school-sanctioned activity, on or off school than 70, the student will be required to retake the semester in property. Having one of these in a privately owned vehicle which he or she failed. that the student may have driven to school on district property is also prohibited. (See the Student Code of Conduct for information regarding disciplinary consequences.) CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
With Prior Instruction
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES / CONDITIONS
A student who has received prior instruction in a course or To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students subject but failed the course or subject may be permitted to infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school earn credit by passing an examination on the essential while contagious. If a parent suspects that his or her child has a knowledge and skills defined for the course or subject. To contagious disease, the parent should contact the school nurse or receive credit, students must score a grade of 70 or above on principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the examination. [District Policy EEJA] the disease can be alerted. The school nurse or the principal’s office can provide information from the Department of State Without Prior Instruction Health Services regarding these diseases.
A student will be permitted to take an examination to advance CORRESPONDENCE COURSES to a higher grade level (at the elementary level) or earn credit for an academic course (at the secondary level) for which the The district permits high school students to take student has no prior instruction. [District Policy EEJB] The correspondence courses by mail or via the internet-for credit. District shall accelerate a student in grades 1-5 one grade level Students in grades 9-12 may earn credits toward high school if the student meets the following requirements: graduation by these means. Students may earn a maximum of two state-required credits through approved correspondence • A student scores 90 percent or above on a criterion- courses. [District Policy EEJC] referenced test for the grade level to be skipped in each of the following areas: language arts, mathematics, science, COUNSELING and social studies. • A District representative recommends that the student be A counselor is available to help each student in his or her accelerated: and social, educational, vocational and personal development. • The student’s parent or guardian gives written approval of Counselors assist students in recommending procedures for the acceleration. improvement of study habits, in planning schedules, in making realistic curriculum selections and appropriate future plans, and in providing help with adjustment problems. A crisis counselor is available to assist students in an emergency situation. A student who wishes to talk with a counselor should call (281) 457-7389 [District Policies EIF and FFE]. Students who are interested in attending a college, university, or training school or pursuing some other advanced education should work closely with their counselor so that they take the high school courses that best prepare them. The counselor can also provide information about entrance examinations required
26 environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance.
Examples of dating violence against a student may include, The District shall give a student in grades 6-12 credit for an but are not limited to, physical or sexual assaults, name- academic subject in which the student has received no prior calling, put-downs, threats to hurt the student or the student’s instruction if the student scores 90 percent or above on a family members or members of student’s household, criterion- referenced examination for acceleration for the destroying property belonging to the student, threats to applicable course. If such credit is given, the District shall commit suicide or homicide if the student ends the enter the examination score on the student’s transcript. relationship, attempts to isolate the student from friends and The dates on which examinations are scheduled during the family, stalking, or encouraging others to engage in these 2011-2012 school year include: behaviors.
Date Scheduled Grade Level or Course Discrimination November 14-18, 2011 Discrimination is defined as any conduct directed at a student November 14 Math and Electives on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, November 15 English/Language Arts disability, or any other basis prohibited by the law, that November 16 Social Studies negatively affects the student. November 17 Science November 18 Make-up/ Test Return Harassment June 18-21, 2012 Harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, June 18 Math Electives or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; creates an June 19 English/Language Arts intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational June 20 Social Studies environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s June 21 Science academic performance. A copy of the district’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the superintendent’s A student planning to take an examination for acceleration (or office or on the district website. the student’s parent) must register with the campus counselor no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date. The Sexual Harassment district will honor a request by a parent to administer, on some Sexual harassment of a student by an employee, volunteer, or other date, a test purchased by the parent from a State Board- another student is prohibited. approved university. [District Policy EEJB] Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer DATING VIOLENCE, DISCRIMINATION, does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not HARASSMENT, AND RETALIATION reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, romantic and other inappropriate social relationships, as well as all The district believes that all students learn best in an sexual relationships, between students and district employees environment free from dating violence, discrimination, are prohibited, even if consensual. harassment, and retaliation and that their welfare is best served when they are free from this prohibited conduct while Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include, but attending school. Students are expected to treat other students not be limited to, touching private body parts or coercing and district employees with courtesy and respect, to avoid physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; behaviors known to be offensive, and to stop those behaviors jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to motivated conduct, communications, or contact. treat students with courtesy and respect. Retaliation The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors discrimination or harassment, including dating violence, is that are based on a person’s race, color, religion, gender, prohibited. Retaliation against a person who is participating in national origin, disability, or any basis prohibited by law. [See an investigation of alleged discrimination or harassment is policy FFH] also prohibited. A person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a district Dating Violence investigation, however, may be subject to appropriate Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past discipline. dating relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control the other person Retaliation against a student might occur when a student in the relationship. This type of conduct is considered receives threats from another student or an employee or when harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive an employee imposes an unjustified punishment or that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit unwarranted grade reduction. Retaliation does not include from an educational program or activity; creates an petty slights and annoyances from other students or negative intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational
27 comments from a teacher that are justified by a student’s poor Deliveries of flowers, balloons, gifts, and other items not academic performance in the classroom. necessary for the student’s class work will not be made. The school office will not accept delivery of flowers, gifts, etc. Food/Drinks from parents not eating with their child must be taken to the main office of your child’s campus. Reporting Procedures Any students who believe that he or she has experienced DISCIPLINE SCHOOL (APOLLO) dating violence, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, State law requires the district to offer an alternative learning principal, or other district employee. The report may be made environment for those students who have persistent and/or by the student’s parent. See policy FFH (LOCAL) for the serious discipline problems. The school is called Apollo. appropriate district officials to whom to make a report. Each campus principal has authority to place students in Apollo. A student younger than six may not be removed from Investigation Report class and placed in an alternative education program. Reasons To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of for placement, due process rights, and appeal procedures can the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to be found within the Student Code of Conduct. conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations of prohibited conduct, which includes dating Students who are placed at Apollo will serve no more than 45 violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, will be school days. The minimum amount of school days a student promptly investigated. The district will notify the parents of must serve will be determined by the student’s home campus. any student alleged to have experienced prohibited conduct involving an adult associated with the district. A student removed to a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) during the school year must be provided an In the event prohibited conduct involves another student, the opportunity to complete coursework needed to fulfill the district will notify the parents of the student alleged to have student’s high school graduation requirements before the experienced the prohibited conduct when the allegations, if beginning of the next school year. proven, would constitute a violation as defined by policy. If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited conduct DISCIPLINE SCHOOL DRESS CODE (APOLLO) occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the conduct. The district may take In addition to the Channelview Independent School District disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the dress code, the students attending the District Discipline complaint was not unlawful. School (Apollo) will be required to adhere to a specific, standardized, campus dress code for all students. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy [FNG . All students must wear a plain, white shirt/blouse. (LOCAL)]. The shirt/blouse must have a collar and not contain any logos, pictures, or markings. Colored garments DAY CARE CENTER other than white should not be visible under the shirt/blouse. All shirts shall have sleeves. The district offers a childcare program for employees and . All students must wear khaki, navy blue, or black students with preschool children. For registration and fee pants, skirts or slacks. information call the following number, (281) 860-3810 for . The students shall wear all pants at the appropriate assistance. height on the abdomen (navel), to prevent sagging. . The students must wear a belt to provide support for DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE all pants worn. . Pants that are sagging, baggy, or contain stripes, State law requires students in Social Studies classes in grades floral print, or designs will not be permitted. . 3-12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Jeans, wind-pants, and pajama-pants will not be Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week. Celebrate permitted. . Freedom Week is scheduled by law for the week in which Garments containing heavy metal buckles or chains November 11 falls, although the local board has the authority will not be permitted. . to designate another week. A student’s parent may provide a Shirttails must be tucked in tightly, and buttoned or written statement requesting that their child be excused. A zipped to within one button from the collar, on all student may also be excused if: the district determines the shirts and blouses. . child has a conscientious objection to the recitation or: if the Skirts must be worn no shorter than two inches above student is a representative of a foreign government that the the knee. . United States government extends diplomatic immunity. All students must wear socks or hosiery with all [District Policy EHBK] shoes. Sandals, house shoes, shower shoes, or colored tennis shoes are not permitted. Shoestrings (laces) must match the color of the shoes, or either be DELIVERIES TO THE SCHOOL white or black. All footwear must be tied or buckled.
28 . Back packs, satchels, book bags, or binders are not DRESS AND GROOMING acceptable. . Students are expected to be well groomed every day. The district’s dress code is established to teach hygiene, instill Boys’ hair shall be cut to prevent it from extending discipline, prevent disruption, and minimize safety hazards. below the eyebrows in front, below the bottom of the Students and parents may determine a student’s personal dress ear on the sides and shall not extend below the collar and grooming standards, provided that they comply with the in the back. Side burns shall be trimmed and no following guidelines: lower than the middle of the ear and shall not be extreme.. Students shall come to school looking clean and neat and . Jackets, sweaters, or sweatshirts with hoods are not wearing clothing and exhibiting grooming that will not be a permitted. health or safety hazard to the student or others. The district . Students are not permitted to wear jewelry. This prohibits pictures, emblems, or writings on clothing that are includes watches and decorative dental covers lewd, offensive, violent in nature, vulgar/obscene, or that (grills). All jewelry will be taken from the student advertise or depict tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and returned at the end of the day. drugs, or any other substance prohibited under [District Policy FNCF (LOCAL)], and prohibits any clothing or grooming that Unless otherwise noted above, Apollo Students are also in the principal’s judgment may reasonably be expected to expected to adhere to the acceptable and unacceptable Dress cause disruption of or interference with normal school and Grooming section of this handbook. operations.
DISTANCE LEARNING Administrators have the responsibility and right to determine appropriateness of attire and grooming for the school setting. Distance learning and correspondence courses include courses that The school has the right to ask students to change their attire if encompass the state-required essential knowledge and skills but it is of such nature that it provokes unfavorable comment. are taught through multiple technologies and alternative Students who disregard the dress code and grooming policy methodologies such as mail, satellite, Internet, video-conferencing, will be subject to disciplinary action. The principal may allow and instructional television. exceptions to this written policy for school spirit days or The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) has been established special campus approved activities. All campus dress code as one method of distance learning. A student has the option, with policies will be enforced at co-curricular and extracurricular certain limitations, to enroll in a course offered through the activities TxVSN to earn course credit for graduation. In limited circumstances, a student in grade 8 may also be eligible to enroll in Because of the nature of extracurricular activities, the a course through the TxVSN. Depending on the TxVSN course in principal may approve exceptions to the traditional dress code which a student enrolls, the course may be subject to the “no pass, for students during participation in an extracurricular activity no play” rules. Students within the Channelview Independent School If you have questions or wish to make a request that your child be District will adhere to a traditional dress code policy for enrolled in a TxVSN course, please contact the counselor. the following campuses;
If a student wishes to enroll in a correspondence course or a Pre-Kindergarten, distance learning course that is not provided through the TxVSN Channelview High School. in order to earn credit in a course or subject, the student must L.W. Kolarik Center receive permission from the principal prior to enrolling in the Endeavor High School course or subject. If the student does not receive prior approval, the district will not recognize and apply the course or subject The Campus Education Improvement Committee (CEIC) of toward graduation requirements or subject mastery. each campus has the option to recommend a standardized dress code that includes the traditional dress code for DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIAL enforcement if approved by the superintendent.
School publications distributed to students may include DRESS CODE newspapers and yearbooks. All school publications are under the supervision of the teacher, sponsor, and principal. CHANNELVIEW HIGH SCHOOL and L.W. KOLARIK CENTER Written materials, handbills, photographs, petitions, films, (PRE-KINDERGARTEN WHEN APPLICABLE) tapes, posters or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school may not be Shirts posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any campus by a student or a non-student without the prior approval of the . Shirts may be untucked and must be appropriately principal. Disapprovals may be appealed. Any student who buttoned at all times (Kolarik Center and Channelview posts materials without prior approval will be subject to High School) disciplinary action. [District Policy FMA and GKA]
29 . Sleeveless shirts are allowed if the shoulder strap is two- inches or more in width-no unhemmed or low-cut shirts . Large or oversized purses or handbags are not permitted allowed. This includes sundresses. . Caps, hats, or other head coverings will not be worn . No spaghetti strap tops or camisoles allowed, this anywhere on campus during the school day without includes strapless tops and sundresses even if covered by approval from the building principal another garment. . Earrings on boys . No tight fitting knit tops . Bandanas . No midriff tops, shimmer /shear shirts, cut off shirts, or . Pierced ring in lip, nose, eyebrow, tongue, or other body other tops that expose the midriff area during normal parts, (except female ears) activity . Hair rollers/ long combs . Shall be appropriately sized, not oversized, or baggy, . Sunglasses while in the building . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, . Rings that join two or more fingers, resulting in a brass conceals contraband, creates a distraction, signifies death, knuckle type of weapon suicide, Satanism, and the occult. This includes but is not . Pet collars or heavy chains limited to concert shirts, patches, and insignias depicting . Large oversized belt buckles any of the above . Visible under garments or under garments worn . Shall not have written reference to alcohol, tobacco inappropriately products, sex, vulgar language, weapons, symbols that . Decorative teeth accessories can be considered racial, or detract from a conducive . Inappropriate contact lenses learning environment . No duster coats or trench coats . May not be ripped, torn, or have holes . May not be worn off the shoulder Unacceptable Hair and Grooming
Pants, Skirts, Dresses . No facial hair allowed. Students will be required to shave immediately if facial hair is noticeable. . Shall be appropriately sized, not tight fitting, baggy, or . No gang-related, profane, vulgar or otherwise distracting oversized hairstyle, or design cut into the hair . Pants must fit at the waist, not worn below the waist, and . Any tattoo cut into skin shall be covered at all times be properly hemmed or cuffed, not ripped, with holes . Inappropriate hair color that is a distraction to the learning . Belts are required if pants are not appropriately sized. environment e.g. orange, green, etc. . Shall not have written reference to alcohol, tobacco . Hair must be neat and clean products, sex, vulgar language, weapons, symbols that can be considered racial, or detract from a conducive In addition to the Channelview Independent School learning environment District’s traditional dress code, the students . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, conceals contraband, creates a distraction, signifies death, attending the campuses listed below will be suicide, Satanism, and the occult. This includes but is not required to adhere to a specific, standardized, limited to concert shirts, patches, and insignias depicting campus dress code for all students. The following any of the above dress code will be enforced at these Schools. . Dresses ,skirts, and pants must have hemlines no shorter Crenshaw Elementary than four inches above the knee DeZavala Elementary . Leggings are allowed if the dress, shirt, skirt and/or shorts Hamblen Elementary worn over the leggings are no shorter than four inches Harvey Brown Elementary above the knee. McMullan Elementary . No sleepwear, pajamas, or lounging pants Schochler Elementary . No athletic shorts. Matching nylon warm-up suits are Viola Cobb Elementary allowed with coordinating tops or bottoms. No writing on Alice Johnson Junior High the back of the pants is allowed. These suits must meet Apollo administrator’s approval. All clothing may be purchased at the store of your choice Shoes/Footwear including area Wal-Mart and Academy Stores. If you have any questions regarding the standardized dress code policy . Backless flats may be worn at school, provided they cover please call the Elementary School where your child will be the toes. attending or Alice Johnson Junior High if your student is in . Footwear traditionally worn around the home (i.e., house the 7th or 8th grade. shoes, slippers, etc.) or to the beach (i.e., water shoes, athletic sandals, plastic/ foam/ rubber flip flops, etc.) are K – 6TH not permitted
Miscellaneous CAPRI PANTS, SLACKS, SHORTS, SKORTS, SKIRTS, DRESSES OR JUMPERS The following items shall and will be considered unacceptable . Shall be solid color khaki, black, or navy.
30 . Jeans may be worn on Friday with “Spirit” or . Full length jackets/coats such as those commonly referred “Organizational” shirt as approved by the Principal. to as “trench” coats or “dusters” are not permitted. Only . Shall be appropriately sized ¾ length (or less) jackets/coats are acceptable . Pants must fit at the waist and be properly hemmed or . Outside jackets and coats are considered to be cold cuffed at or below ankle, but not dragging the ground weather apparel only ("slicing" or "ragging" not allowed). . Belts are recommended kindergarten – 1st grade. . Belts are required 2nd – 6th grade. Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters . Belt buckles may not be larger than the student’s fist. . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, . May be worn in the building throughout the day conceals contraband, or creates a distraction ("sagging" . May be worn only over the standard school shirt not allowed). . May be any type of material and may be lined . No stretch slacks, sweatpants, jogging pants, wind suits, . Shall be plain with no logos warm-ups, overalls or coveralls allowed. . Shall be solid color only . No leather, suede, corduroy or vinyl fabric . Shall be appropriately sized in the shoulders, sleeves and . Length of shorts, skorts, skirts, dresses or jumpers must length; no hoods be no more than four [4] inches above the knee . Sweatshirts with hoods must be appropriately tucked so . No outside (sewn on) oversized expandable pockets on that the hood is not over the head slacks, jeans, shorts, such as those commonly referred to . Full length jackets/coats such as those commonly referred as "cargo" pockets or "safari" pockets are allowed. to as “trench” coats or “dusters” are not permitted. ¾ . Top and bottom colors of standardized dress items shall length (or less) jackets/coats are acceptable be in contrasting colors. (e.g. no black & black; khaki & . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, khaki; navy & navy) conceals contraband or creates a distraction
Shirts Shoes
. Shall be any solid color (no multicolor) No glitter, . Students must wear shoes appropriate for school (no shimmer, or other color distraction is permitted. backless shoes such as: house shoes, slippers, or flip . A single logo allowed. Size of logo to be no larger than a flops) US quarter coin. . Shall be appropriately fastened at all times . Must have a standard collar . Wheels, glitter, noise-makers, or lights are not permitted . Must be a polo, golf style or button-down dress style shirt on footwear. . May be a “Spirit” or “Organizational” shirt on Friday or as approved by the Principal. Miscellaneous . May not be leather, suede, or vinyl . May not be sleeveless, unhemmed, or low-cut . New students enrolling in Channelview ISD for the first . May not be spaghetti strap, even if covered by another time will be provided a grace period of no more than ten garment (10) school days to comply with the dress code. . Shall be appropriately sized . Revealing or tight garments considered inappropriately . No tight fitting knit tops sized are prohibited. . No midriff tops, shimmel/shear shirts, cut off shirts or . Accessories with inappropriate decorations or other tops that expose the midriff area during normal advertisements are prohibited. This includes but is not activity limited to, any item that depicts the occult, gang . Kindergarten – 1st grade: recommended tucked in membership, death, suicide, violence, drugs, alcohol, . 2nd – 6th grade: Must be completely and properly tucked tobacco, weapons, sex, ethnic bias, or vulgar language. in at all times . Must be appropriately buttoned at all times The following items may not be worn: . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, . Sunglasses, hairnets, and bandanas (this also refers to the conceals contraband, or creates a distraction style of dress known as “Do-rags”) . If a t-shirt or turtleneck shirt is worn underneath the shirt, . Garments that have holes worn or torn in them it shall be solid color . Heavy chains, spike necklaces, heavy chain necklaces, pet . Top and bottom colors of standardized dress items shall collars or other inappropriate types of jewelry signifying be in contrasting colors (e.g. no black & black; khaki & death, suicide, Satanism and the occult. This includes but khaki; navy & navy) (Cobb only) is not limited to concert shirts, patches, and insignias depicting any of the above Outside Jackets and Coats . Glitter, tattoos, cuts into the skin and writing/drawing on the face or skin any tattoos (including temporary) must be . Must be removed upon entering the building covered at all times (at school or while representing the . All fabrics acceptable school) . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, . Girls, no more than two earrings may be worn in each ear conceals contraband or creates a distraction lobe, no nose rings, lip rings, tongue piercings, or any other body piercings are permitted
31 . No large or oversized purses / handbags . Must have a standard collar and no more than 3 buttons . Caps, hats, or other head coverings will not be worn . Must be a polo, golf style anywhere on campus during the school day without . May be a “Spirit” or “Organizational” shirt on Friday or approval from the building principal as approved by the Principal. . Earrings on boys . May not be leather, suede, or vinyl . Hair rollers / long combs . May not be sleeveless, unhemmed, or low-cut . Sleepwear, pajamas, or lounging pants . May not be spaghetti strap, even if covered by another . Sweat suits / athletic shorts garment . Revealing garments; includes sheer or see through . Shall be appropriately sized blouses . No tight fitting knit tops . Rings that join two or more fingers, resulting in a brass . No midriff tops, shear shirts, cut off shirts or other tops knuckle type weapon that expose the midriff area during normal activity . Large oversized belt buckles . Must be completely and properly tucked in and . Decorative teeth accessories, “grills” appropriately buttoned at all times . Inappropriate contact lenses . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, . Inappropriate hair color, e.g., orange, green, blue, red, conceals contraband, or creates a distraction purple etc. . If a t-shirt or turtleneck shirt is worn underneath the shirt, . Hair must be neatly groomed and clean it shall be solid white. . Facial hair (beards, mustaches) . Top and bottom colors of standardized dress items shall . No gang-related, profane, vulgar or otherwise distracting be in contrasting colors design cut into the hair (i.e. Mohawks) Sweatshirts/Jackets/Sweaters 7TH – 8TH . Shall be solid color hunter green, navy blue, maroon, or CAPRI PANTS, SLACKS, SHORTS, SKORTS, SKIRTS, white only . DRESSES OR JUMPERS Shall be plain with approved logos . May be worn in the building throughout the day . . Shall be solid-color, polo-style khaki, black, or navy. No May be worn only over the standard school shirt . glitter, shimmer, or other color distraction is permitted; May be any type of material and may be lined . this shall include, but not be limited to stripes and Shall be appropriately sized in the shoulders, sleeves and embroidery that is a distraction. length; no hoods . . Jeans may be worn for special occasions with Principal Sweatshirts with hoods must be appropriately tucked so approval. that the hood is not over the head . . Shall be appropriately sized: not tight fitting, not loose Full length jackets/coats such as those commonly referred fitting to as “trench” coats or “dusters” are not permitted. ¾ . Pants must fit at the waist and be properly hemmed or length (or less) jackets/coats are acceptable . cuffed at or below ankle, but not dragging the ground May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, ("slicing" or "ragging" not allowed). conceals contraband or creates a distraction . Belts are required. . Belt buckles may not be larger than the student’s fist. Shoes . May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, . conceals contraband, or creates a distraction ("sagging" Students must wear shoes appropriate for school (no not allowed). house slippers, or flip flops). All shoes must include a . No stretch slacks, sweatpants, jogging pants, wind suits, back strap over the heel with toes covered. . warm-ups, overalls or coveralls allowed. Wheels, glitter, noise-makers, or lights are not permitted . No leather, suede, corduroy or vinyl fabric on footwear. . Length of shorts, skorts, skirts, dresses or jumpers must be no more than two [2] inches above the knee Miscellaneous . No stripes or embroidery allowed . . No outside (sewn on) oversized expandable pockets on New students enrolling in Channelview ISD for the first slacks, jeans, shorts, such as those commonly referred to time will be provided a grace period of no more than ten as "cargo" pockets or "safari" pockets are allowed. (10) school days to comply with the dress code. . . Top and bottom colors of standardized dress items shall Revealing or tight garments considered inappropriately be in contrasting colors sized are prohibited. . Accessories with inappropriate decorations or Shirts advertisements are prohibited. This includes but is not limited to, any item that depicts the occult, gang . Shall be solid color hunter green, navy blue, maroon, or membership, death, suicide, violence, drugs, alcohol, white (no multicolor) No glitter, shimmer, or other color tobacco, sex, ethnic bias, or vulgar language. distraction is permitted. . A single logo allowed. Size of logo to be no larger than a The following items may not be worn: US quarter coin.
32 . Sunglasses, hairnets, and bandanas (this also refers to the abnormality for which compliance to the rules would be style of dress known as “Do-rags”) detrimental to the physical health of the student. . Garments that have holes worn or torn in them The CEIC of a campus may recommend exceptions . Heavy chains, spike necklaces, heavy chain necklaces, pet to the traditional code for approval by the principal collars or other inappropriate types of jewelry signifying and superintendent. death, suicide, Satanism and the occult. This includes but is not limited to concert shirts, patches, and insignias depicting any of the above DRILLS- FIRE, TORNADO, AND OTHER . Glitter, tattoos, cuts into the skin and writing/drawing on EMERGENCY DRILLS the face or skin any tattoos (including temporary) must be covered at all times (at school or while representing the Students, teachers, and other district employees shall school) participate in frequent drills of emergency procedures. When . Girls, no more than two earrings may be worn in each ear the alarm is sounded, students must follow the directions of lobe, no nose rings, lip rings, tongue piercings, or any teachers or school personnel quickly and in an orderly manner. other body piercings are permitted For more information each campus office has a Crisis . No large or oversized purses / handbags Management Plan on file. . Caps, hats, or other head coverings will not be worn anywhere on campus during the school day without approval from the building principal DROPOUT PREVENTION PROGRAM . Earrings on boys (ENDEAVOR) . Hair rollers / long combs . Sleepwear, pajamas, or lounging pants The district offers students that are considered at-risk to enroll . Sweat suits / athletic shorts at Endeavor to expedite progress toward performing at grade . Revealing garments; includes sheer or see through level and high school completion. Students must be at least 16 blouses years of age at the beginning of the semester and there is . Rings that join two or more fingers, resulting in a brass reasonable expectation that the student will not graduate on knuckle type weapon schedule. Endeavor offers a non- traditional setting and . Large oversized belt buckles methods of instructional delivery designed to meet the needs . Decorative teeth accessories, “grills” of students. . Inappropriate contact lenses . Inappropriate hair color that is a distraction to the learning Applications are available in the high school counselor’s environment office or in the Endeavor office. For more information, call . Hair must be neatly groomed and clean 281-860-3800. . Facial hair . No gang-related, profane, vulgar or otherwise distracting DUAL CREDIT COURSES/COLLEGE COURSE design cut into the hair WORK
ADMINISTRATORS HAVE THE Channelview ISD has entered into agreements with San RESPONSIBILITY AND RIGHT TO DETERMINE Jacinto College and stateu allowing students who meet APPROPRIATENESS OF ATTIRE AND specified criteria to earn both high school credit and college GROOMING FOR THE SCHOOL SETTING credit for approved courses. The following Dual Credit options are available to Channelview ISD students: Please Note: The principal of the school shall have • Lamar University and the University of Texas at the discretion to determine if a student’s hair, dress, Arlington (stateu.com) offer online dual credit and/or grooming are acceptable, within appropriate courses to qualifying students. stateu is a 100% health and safety standards, and are not disrupting online program available at no cost. Participating or distracting to the normal operation of the campus students can earn enough credits during their junior or any extra-curricular / co-curricular activity. and senior years in high school to begin college EXCEPTIONS TO THE DRESS CODE POLICY classified as a sophomore. Students can take classes online anytime, anywhere over a secure internet Voluntary organizations may establish limitations more connection. stringent than those named in these policies with approval of • San Jacinto College – Concurrent enrollment is the superintendent, assistant superintendent, and principal. available that allows students to take certain courses
If a medical condition requires an exception to the dress code, at San Jacinto North that earn both college and high then certification of the need by the student’s medical doctor school credit. Students who take two courses in the must be presented each semester for approval by the fall semester and two more in the spring have the superintendent, assistant superintendent, or principal. School possibility of graduating from high school with up to officials reserve the right to require a second opinion from the 24 hours of college credit. school’s medical doctor to certify a physical deformity or
33 • San Jacinto College MECA (Modified Early permission has been obtained. Without such permission, College Academy) – MECA is a full-time, dual credit teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s college enrollment program offered at San Jacinto office. The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the North for students beginning their junior year and items. continuing into their senior year. If a student earns additional credit hours during the summer, he/she has In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree by high student’s personal electronic device may be searched by school graduation. Channelview ISD students are authorized personnel. [See Searches on page 49 and encouraged to take dual credit courses. Contact the policy FNF.] high school office at 281/452-1450 for more Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the information about each option. [District Policy Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be EHDD] responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device. EARLY ARRIVALS TO SCHOOL Instructional Use of Personal Campuses will not be open for students prior to the serving of Telecommunications and Other breakfast unless the student has an authorized pass. Parents should not drop off students prior to the campus opening. For Electronic Devices further information contact the school office. In some cases, students may find it beneficial or might be encouraged to use personal telecommunications or other personal electronic devices for instructional purposes while ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY on campus. Students must obtain prior approval before using RESOURCES personal telecommunications or other personal electronic devices for instructional use. Students must also sign a user Possession and Use of Personal Telecommunications agreement that contains applicable rules for use (separate Devices, Including Mobile Telephones from this handbook). When students are not using the devices For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess for approved instructional purposes, all devices must be personal mobile telephones; however, these devices must remain turned off during the instructional day. Violations of the user turned off during the instructional day, including during all agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other testing. Unless they are being used for approved instructional disciplinary action. purposes. A student must have approval to possess other telecommunications devices such as netbooks, laptops, tablets, or Acceptable Use of District other portable computers. Technology Resources To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, The use of mobile telephones or any device capable of capturing the district has made an investment in the use of images is strictly prohibited in locker rooms or restroom areas district-owned technology resources for instructional while at school or at a school-related or school-sponsored event. purposes; specific resources may be issued individually to students. Use of these technological resources, which include If a student uses a telecommunications device without the district’s network systems and use of district equipment, is authorization during the school day, the device will be confiscated. restricted to approved purposes only. Students and parents The [student/parent] may pick up the confiscated will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this telecommunications device from the principal’s office for a fee of handbook) regarding use of these district resources.Violations $15. Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved of the user agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges by the student or the student’s parents will be disposed of after the and other disciplinary action. notice required by law. [See policy FNCE.] Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a student’s Technology Resources personal telecommunications device may be searched by Students are prohibited from sending, posting, accessing, or authorized personnel. displaying electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition applies to Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for conduct off school property, whether the equipment used damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunications devices.
Possession and Use of Other Personal Electronic Devices Except as described below, students are not permitted to possess or use personal electronic devices such as MP3 players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, games, e-readers, or other electronic devices at school, unless prior
34 to send such messages is district-owned or personally owned, if it three-week evaluation, the suspension continues until the next results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment. three-week period, at which time the preceding rules apply. Any person taking, disseminating, transferring,or sharing An INC (incomplete) is considered as a failure until it is obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or assigned a passing grade. other content, commonly referred to as “sexting,” will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct and may, 3. A student suspended under this section may practice or in certain circumstances, be reported to law enforcement. rehearse with other students for an extracurricular activity but may not participate in a competition or other public
performance.
4. At the end of any grading period in which a student has attained a cumulative course grade average of 70 or more in all courses taken, any suspension under this section shall be
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT removed.
Parents shall complete an emergency card each year that All UIL activities and other activities approved by the Board includes a place for parental consent for school officials to are subject to these restrictions. A student who misses class request medical treatment for the student, as provided by law. because of participation in a non-approved activity will Parents shall also be asked to supply other information that receive an unexcused absence. could be required in case of an emergency. Parents should update this information as often as necessary. Please Note: Student clubs and performing groups
such as band, choir, drill and athletic teams may The cost of services provided by ambulance, private establish codes of conduct and consequences for physician, clinic, hospital, or dentist remains the responsibility misbehavior that are stricter than those for students of the parent or guardian and shall not be assumed by the in general. If a violation is also a violation of superintendent, the designee, or the Channelview Independent school rules, the consequences specified by the School District. [District Policy FFAC] Student Code of Conduct will apply in addition to
any consequences specified by the organization. The district does make available, however, an optional, low- Such codes are to be in writing and approved by the cost student accident insurance program to assist parents in principal and superintendent. meeting medical expenses. A parent who desires coverage for his or her child will be responsible for paying insurance Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse premiums and for submitting claims.
If a student intends to participate in Division I or II athletics as EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND a freshman, he/she must register and be certified by the NCAA ORGANIZATIONS Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. Check with your counselor at (281) 452-1450 or the athletic director at (281) 860-3802 to Participation in school-related activities is an excellent way determine the standards that apply. Information is also for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, available on the web at www.act.org/ncaa and forge strong friendships with other students. Participation is a privilege. While many of the activities are governed by Irreconcilable Conflicts the University Interscholastic League (UIL)-a statewide association of participating districts-eligibility for many of If scheduling conflicts should exist among school activities, these activities are governed by state law as well as UIL rules. the parent should choose in which activity the student will participate. The student shall not be penalized due to school Eligibility for Extracurricular activities scheduling conflicts. 1. In order to be eligible to participate in an extracurricular activity for a grading period following the initial grading FEES period of a school year, a student must not have a recorded cumulative grade average lower than 70 on a scale of 0 to 100 Materials that are part of the basic educational program are in any course, excluding those identified as Advanced provided with state and local funds and are at no cost to a Placement, Pre-Advanced Placement, and Dual Credit, student. A student is expected to provide his or her own through the end of the preceding grading period. pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits. Any required fee or deposit 2. A student whose recorded cumulative grade average in any may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. course is lower than 70 at the end of a grading period shall be Application for such a wavier may be made to the campus suspended from participation in any extracurricular activity. principal. [District Policy FP] The suspension period begins 7 calendar days after the close of the grading period and continues for a minimum of three FUND RAISING weeks. At the end of the three-week grading period, if a student is passing all courses, the suspension is removed 7 Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent calendar days later. If a student is not passing all courses at the groups may occasionally be permitted to conduct fund-raising
35 drives for approved school purposes. Fund-raising activities If the resolution of the complaint is not satisfactory, the shall be allowed with prior principal approval and under the student or parent may, within ten days, request a conference supervision of the project sponsor. with the superintendent or designee. Prior to or at this Students who do not wish to participate in fund-raising conference, the student and/or parent must submit the activities shall not be penalized. Funds raised shall be complaint in writing and must include (1) a complete received, deposited, and disbursed in accordance with [District statement of the complaint, (2) any evidence supporting the Policy CFD]. No outside organizations of any sort may solicit complaint, (3) a statement about how the matter should be contributions of any type from students within the schools, resolved, (4) the student’s and/or parent’s signature, and the without prior approval of the assistant superintendent. date of the conference with the principal, the principal’s designee, or the district assistant superintendent. If the GANG-FREE ZONES resolution by the superintendent or designee is not satisfactory, the student and/or parent may present the Certain criminal offenses, including those involving organized complaint to the board at the next regular meeting. criminal activity such as gang-related crimes, will be enhanced Information on the procedure for addressing the board can be to the next highest category of offense if they are committed in obtained from any campus office or the superintendent’s office. a gang-free zone. For purposes of the district, a gang-free zone includes a school bus and a location in, on, or within 1,000 feet of any district-owned or leased property or campus playground.
GANG RELATED MISBEHAVIOR GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITIES The district has adopted a ZERO TOLERANCE of any type of When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities gang related misbehavior on any campus. A “gang” is a group wish to question or interview a student at school: of individuals that associate on a continuous basis and is . The principal will verify and record the identity of involved in delinquent or criminal activity. Students and/or the officer or other authority and ask for an parents are encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns explanation of the need to question or interview the about expectations in this area with a teacher, counselor, student. principal, or assistant superintendent, who serves as the . The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts district discipline coordinator for students. to notify parents unless the interviewer raises what
the principal considers to be a valid objection. Students are prohibited from any behaviors that are associated . The principal ordinarily will be present unless the with gang-related affiliation including, but not limited to, interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a violation of established dress code, possession of valid objection. paraphernalia, intimidation of students or staff members, graffiti or symbols, tattoos, and identifying language or hand signals. The principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of
the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child A substantiated complaint against a student for “gang-related abuse investigation. misbehavior” will result in the student being removed from his or her home campus. Students Taken into Custody
The district will notify the parents of all students involved in State law requires the district to permit a student to be taken gang-related misbehavior by student(s). To the greatest extent into legal custody: possible, complaints will be treated confidentially. Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough . To comply with an order of the juvenile court investigation. . To comply with the laws of arrest
. By a law enforcement officer if there is probable A complaint alleging gang-related misbehavior by another cause to believe the student has violated a condition student may be presented by a student and/or parent in a of probation imposed by the juvenile court conference with the principal or designee or with the district . To comply with a properly issued directive to take a assistant superintendent. The parent or other advisor may student into custody accompany their student throughout the complaint process. . By an authorized representative of Child Protective The conference will be scheduled and held as soon as possible, Services, Texas Department of Protective and but no later than five days after the request. The principal or Regulatory Services, a law enforcement officer, or a district assistant superintendent will conduct an appropriate juvenile probation officer, without a court order, investigation, which ordinarily will be completed within ten under the conditions set out in the Family Code days. The student and/or parent will be informed of relating to the student's physical health and safety extenuating circumstances that delay completion of the investigation. Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or
other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will
36 verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student. Channelview ISD grading guidelines are being The principal will immediately notify the superintendent and reviewed, and they will be updated to meet legislative will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or requirements. An addendum to this handbook will be other authorized person raises what the principal considers to provided to students and parents following Board be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Since the approval of the updated grading guidelines. principal does not have the authority to block a custody action, notification will most likely be after the fact. After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward The district is also required by state law to notify: graduation. . All instructional and support personnel who have (9th grade responsibility for supervising a student who has been 05-06, 06-07) arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any Grade Credits (9th grade 07-08) felony offense or certain misdemeanors. Placement Earned Credits Earned . All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been 10 6 6 convicted or adjudicated of delinquent conduct for 11 11 12 any felony offense or certain misdemeanors. 12 18 (and have 19 (and have completed completed three years three years of of high school) high school) GPA SCALE GRADE POINT AVERAGE Numeric grade averages are given to students after each six Advanced week’s grading period. The three six weeks grade averages Placement/ and semester exams are averaged to determine the semester Numerical Honors/ Dual average/grades. Based on a seven-point weighted scale, grade Grade Regular Pre-AP Credit points are assigned to each semester grade and are recorded on 100 5.0 6.0 7.0 the student's permanent record (Academic Achievement 99 4.9 5.9 6.9 Record). Grade points are assigned using the following scale: 98 4.8 5.8 6.8 97 4.7 5.7 6.7 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS 96 4.6 5.6 6.6 95 4.5 5.5 6.5 To receive a high school diploma from the district, a student 94 4.4 5.4 6.4 must successfully complete the required number of credits and 93 4.3 5.3 6.3 pass a statewide grade 11 examination. A student who does 92 4.2 5.2 6.2 not pass the exit-level assessment will have additional 91 4.1 5.1 6.1 opportunities to take the test. [District Policy EIF and EKB] 90 4.0 5.0 6.0 89 3.9 4.9 5.9 A senior who graduates after the first semester should turn in his or her name, address, and phone number to the principal’s 88 3.8 4.8 5.8 secretary in order to be kept advised concerning senior 87 3.7 4.7 5.7 activities. 86 3.6 4.6 5.6 All entering 9th grade high school students will be placed in 85 3.5 4.5 5.5 the Recommended Program. 84 3.4 4.4 5.4 83 3.3 4.3 5.3 Students who entered grade 9 in the 2007-2008 school year 82 3.2 4.2 5.2 and thereafter shall enroll in the courses necessary to complete 81 3.1 4.1 5.1 the curriculum requirements for the state’s Recommended 80 3.0 4.0 5.0 High School Program or the state’s Distinguished 79 2.9 3.9 4.9 Achievement High School Program, per the Section Course 78 2.8 3.8 4.8 Guide. 77 2.7 3.7 4.7 76 2.6 3.6 4.6 Permission to graduate under the minimum high school 75 2.5 3.5 4.5 program must be agreed to in writing and signed by the 74 2.4 3.4 4.4 student, student’s parent (or other person standing in parental 73 2.3 3.3 4.3 relation to the student), and a school counselor or school 72 2.2 3.2 4.2 administrator. 71 2.1 3.1 4.1 70 2.0 3.0 4.0 Under HB 3, to graduate under the minimum high school program, students must: GRADE GUIDELINES • be at least 16 years of age; HB3 requires changes to the local grading policy for students taking End-of-Course exams. The current
37 • have completed 2 credits required for graduation in Students who enter school 2008-2009 (and beyond) are each subject of the foundation curriculum; or required to have an additional credit of science of the minimum plan. • have failed to be promoted to the 10th grade one or more times as determined by the school district. Minimum High School Program – 23 credits Recommended High School Program – 26 credits Distinguished High School Program – 26 credits Student Success Initiative In addition to the high school promotion requirements placed AUTOMATIC ADMISSION TO COLLEGES AND on grades 10-12, students in grade 8 must also meet the UNIVERSITIES additional standards established by the State’s Students Success Initiative. Students who are in the top 10 percent of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission to any public The Student Success Initiative was created by the Texas university in Texas*. Legislature to ensure that all students receive the instruction and support they need to be successful in reading and To be eligible for automatic admission, a student must: mathematics. Under the Student Success Initiative grade advancement requirements, students are required to meet the • Graduate in the top 10 percent of his or her class at a passing standard on the Grade 5TAKS reading and public or private high school in Texas, or mathematics tests to be promoted to sixth grade.
• Graduate in the top 10 percent of his or her class Beginning in 2007 -2008, the grade advancement from a high school operated by U.S. Department of requirements apply to students who take the Grade 8 Defense and be a Texas resident or eligible to pay reading and mathematics TAKS, TAKS Accommodated, resident tuition; TAKS Modified, and TAKS Alternative tests. Students • Enroll in college no more than two-years after have three opportunities to meet their testing requirements for graduating from high school; and their grade level and receive additional instruction after each • testing opportunity for which they do not meet the standard. Submit an application to a Texas public university for A grade placement committee, consisting of the principal, admission before the institution’s application teacher, and parent or guardian, meets when a student has not deadline (check with the university regarding specific met the passing standard after two testing opportunities and deadlines). decides the most effective way to support a student’s academic • Students admitted through this route may still be success. A student who does not meet the passing standard required to provide SAT or ACT scores, although after three testing opportunities is automatically retained; these scores are not used for admissions purposes. however, if the parents appeal the retention, the grade Students must also take the THEA test, unless placement committee may choose to promote the student if all exempted from the test requirements. Check with the the members agree that the student is likely to perform on admissions office regarding THEA, SAT, and ACT grade level with additional instruction. requirements…)
In addition, the EXIT level graduation requirement currently After a student is admitted, the university may review the states that students must pass the EXIT level TAKS tests in all student’s high school records to determine if the student is core subject areas in order to graduate. These tests are prepared for college-level work. A student who needs administered in the 11th grade. Students have additional additional preparation may be required to take a opportunities to meet the passing standard on each of the tests developmental, enrichment, or orientation course during the and receive additional instructions after each testing semester prior to the first semester of college. opportunity for which they do not meet the standard. Admission to a university does not guarantee acceptance into a Students already in the minimum high school program do not particular college of study or department. have to meet the HB 3 requirements to enter the program, but must be given the choice of opting back into the recommended Regardless of class ranking, all students are encouraged to high school program. apple to the college of their choice.
*SB 175, passed by the 81st Legislature, modifies the top 10 Graduation requirements are: percent admissions program for The University of Texas at • Minimum High School Program - 23 credits Austin. Beginning with college admissions for the 2011 summer/fall class, the University of Texas at Austin will • Recommended High School Program - 26 credits automatically admit all eligible applicants who rank within the top 8% of their high school class, with remaining spaces to be • Distinguished High School Program - 26 credits filled through holistic review.
Specific course selection requirements for each plan will be Exit Level Test Requirements made available by the campus counselors.
38 Students who enter 9th grade 2010-2011 or before must pass [Also see Bullying on page 21 and policies FFI and FNCC.] the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test. This test requires mastery of a written composition section, as well as reading, mathematics, science, and social studies. The first opportunity to take the Exit-Level TAKS is during the eleventh grade, and retest opportunities are available during the twelfth grade, as well as during the summer. Students are urged to prepare diligently and master the Exit Test the first HALL PASSES time it is administered so that their attention can be fully directed toward career/college preparations during their A student is never to leave a classroom without the teacher’s remaining high school years. permission. To be in the hall at any time during a class period, a student must have an authorized hall pass. A student th Students beginning 9 grade in 2011 – 2012 and thereafter shall be subject to disciplinary action for violation of this rule. will take the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR). These assessments will replace the HEALTH CARE Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS). The STAAR assessments will be administered in English I, Channelview Independent School District School nurses English II, English III, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, follow the Texas Guide to School Health Programs, which Biology, Chemistry, Physics, World Geography, World includes, but is not limited to, the following policies. History, and U.S. History. Students take the assessments when they complete the course. The student’s score on the STAAR If a student's activities need to be restricted for medical assessments shall be worth 15% of the student’s grade for that reasons, the parent should provide the school with written course, as determined by the Texas Education Agency information from the doctor about the nature of the problem (www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/staar). In order to and the extent of the restriction. graduate, a student must achieve a cumulative score in each of the four core content areas that indicates satisfactory Students with a temperature of 100.4° will be sent home. If a performance, as well as a scale score that meets minimum student has a temperature of 101° or above, it is required that standards on each STAAR assessment. Students on the he or she remains home until free of fever for 24 hours Recommended High School Program must also perform without the aid of fever reducing medication. satisfactorily on the Algebra II and English III STAAR assessments. Student on the Distinguished Achievement Medication for the purpose of controlling fever will not be Program must perform satisfactory on the College-Readiness given during school hours except upon written request from a component of the English III and Algebra II STAAR physician or dentist. assessments. Health Screenings CISD Board Policy FMH (LOCAL) Students of certain grade levels will receive a non-invasive Commencement Exercises: vision, hearing, Acanthosis Nigricans (AN), scoliosis, body Students who have satisfactorily completed all coursework mass index calculations, height and weight measurements and requirements for graduation but have failed to meet applicable blood pressure checks. Other students may receive these same exit-level testing requirements shall be allowed to participate screenings at the request of a parent or teacher. Some students in commencement activities and ceremonies [See EI, EIF] may receive a non-invasive dental screening. Board Member Presentations: Only current members of the Board shall present diplomas to With parental permission, a health and hygiene lesson will be graduating students at any District graduation ceremony. taught to all fourth graders. For additional information on any of these screenings, please contact the school nurse assigned HAZING to your child’s campus.
Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act Communicable Diseases occurring on or off campus directed against a student that endangers the mental or physical health or the safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated to, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership Students with suspected communicable diseases are not in any organization whose members are or include other allowed to attend school. Parents of a student with a students. Hazing will not be tolerated by the district. If an communicable or contagious disease should phone the school incident of hazing occurs, disciplinary consequences will be nurse or principal so that other students who have been handled in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. It is exposed to the disease can be alerted. The district’s list of a criminal offense if a person engages in hazing; solicits, excludable diseases may be found within [District Policy encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in hazing; FFAD (EXHIBIT)]. or has firsthand knowledge of an incident of hazing being planned or having occurred and fails to report this to the Bacterial Meningitis principal or superintendent.
39 . WHAT IS MENINGITIS? pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within 7 to 10 days after the vaccine is given and Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and lasts for up to 5 years. spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is most common and the least . WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IF YOU THINK YOU serious. Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of OR A FRIEND MIGHT HAVE BACTERIAL serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long- MENINGITIS? term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage Seek prompt medical attention. or death. . FOR MORE INFORMATION . WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness regional health department office are excellent sources for may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly information on all communicable diseases. You may also call progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis your local health department or Regional Texas Department of will have the same symptoms. Children (over 1 year old) and Health office to ask about meningococcal vaccine. adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck Additional information may also be found at these web sites: stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple . Texas Department of Health: www.tdh.state.tx.us spots. These can occur anywhere on the body. The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms Immunizations and laboratory results. A student may be provisionally admitted to the district schools . HOW SERIOUS IS BACTERIAL MENINGITIS? if the person has begun the required immunizations and continues to receive the necessary immunizations as rapidly as If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of is medically feasible. The district shall adhere to all rules and people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal regulations prescribed by the Texas Department of Health. or a person may be left with a permanent disability. [District Policy FFAB]
. HOW IS BACTERIAL MENINGITIS SPREAD? Medication Policy
Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as Whenever possible, medications should be given before and contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and after school hours. However, if the student needs to take they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing medication during school hours, the rules listed below shall be the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs followed. Please note the different requirements for live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do prescription medication, non-prescription medication, and not live for long outside the body. They are spread when medicine prescribed for pain. people exchange saliva (such as by kissing; sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes). 1. All medication must appear to be in the original The germ does not cause meningitis in most container, properly labeled (name of student, name of people. Instead, most people become carriers of medicine, and dosage), and must be kept in the clinic the germ for days, weeks or even months. The to be administered by a designated person. bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune 2. A written request to administer medication is system and causes meningitis or another serious required from the parent, legal guardian, or other illness. person having legal control of the student. This written request must include: . HOW CAN BACTERIAL MENINGITIS BE PREVENTED? a) The complete name of the child. b) The name of the medication. Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or c) The reason for administering the medication. cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss. d) The amount of medication to be administered: (must not exceed recommended dose) While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial e) The time the medication is to be administered. meningitis, they are used only in special circumstances. These f) Any known drug allergies. include when there is a disease outbreak in a community or for people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of 3. Properly labeled medicine provided by a physician or getting the disease. Also, a vaccine is recommended by some dentist requires a written physician's statement if the groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in student must take the medicine during school hours. dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective Sample medication provided by a physician or dentist (85-90%). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and
40 requires a written physician's statement if a student the medicine. All medication must be taken to the must take the medication during school hours. clinic upon the arrival of the student at school. 4. A student with asthma may possess and self- 12. All medication in the school clinic must be picked up administer prescription asthma medicine with a by an adult on the last day of school for students in written statement from parent/guardian and grades Pre K through 6. Medications left in the clinic physician. The physician's statement must include: after the last day of school will be discarded unless other arrangements have been made with the school a) The student is capable of self-administering the nurse. prescription asthma medicine; b) Name and purpose of the medicine; School-Based Clinic c) The dosage of the medicine; d) Time the medicine is needed or circumstances The district in conjunction with the Harris County Hospital under which the medicine may be administered; District has developed a School-Based Health Center (Jerry and Neal Health Clinic). Services offered are for children and e) The period of time for which the medicine is adolescents who reside within the North Channel area. prescribed. Immunizations are available for children and adolescents who are eligible for the Vaccine for Children Program. Contact a 5. A student with diabetes may possess and self- school nurse or the clinic (281) 457-6350 for more administer prescription insulin and test for capillary information and eligibility issues. While the services are not blood sugar levels with a written Diabetes free, financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Management and Treatment Plan (DMTP) developed We do accept Medicaid, CHIPS, and Harris County Hospital and approved by the physician and parent. The District "Gold" cards. Services provided are: DMTP must include the following statements/information: . Immunizations in compliance with Vaccine for Children Program. (Call for information to see if your a) The student is capable of self testing and child qualifies) self-administering the insulin. . Vision and hearing screenings b) The dosage of insulin to be administered. . Well-child and adolescent checkups, including c) The circumstances which testing or Medicaid Texas Health Steps examinations medication administration is to take place. . Sports physicals d) The period of time the request is valid. . Medical treatment for acute illnesses and chronic conditions, such as asthma 6. If medication is to be administered longer than ten . Health education calendar days or as needed throughout the school . Referral for mental health services year, the school must receive written permission from . Harris County Hospital District "Gold" card both the parent and physician. eligibility 7. Pain medicine (any narcotic) will not be administered during school hours. Narcotic pain medications Steroids usually cause dizziness, sedation, and unsteadiness, which is unsafe for the student in the school Parents and students should be aware that state law prohibits environment. Exceptions to this policy can be made students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or for a student with chronic/long term pain problems if administering an anabolic steroid. Body building, muscle specified in writing by the student’s physician. enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength 8. Non-prescriptive medication will be given only when through the use of an anabolic steroid or human growth prior arrangements have been made with the school hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is nurse or designated person administering a criminal offense (TEC 38.008) medications. 9. Herbal and dietary supplements will only be given if School Health Advisory Council accompanied by a physician's written order, a parent The board shall establish a local school health advisory or legal guardian's written permission and if the council to assist the District in ensuring that local community school nurse is knowledgeable about the herbal or values and health issues are reflected in the District’s health dietary supplement and has a supporting body of education instruction. The Board shall appoint members to the research literature. council, a majority of which must be parents of students 10. An adult must transport all medication of students in enrolled in the District and who are not employed by the Pre-Kindergarten through sixth grades. No students District. The Board may also appoint one or more public will be allowed to transport any controlled school teachers, public school administrators, District medication (medication for ADHD, anti-anxiety students, health-care professionals, members of the business medications, pain medications or narcotics). community, law enforcement representatives, senior citizens, 11. A student in grades 7-12, may transport his or her clergy, representatives of nonprofit health organizations, or medicine if parents/legal guardians accept the representatives of another group. responsibility of the student’s capability of handling HEALTH RELATED MATTERS
41 Physical Activity for Students in Elementary personnel the authority of a parent supervising students at and Middle School school.
In accordance with policies EHAB,EHAC, and FFA, the LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENT STUDENTS district will ensure that students in kindergarten through grade 5 engage in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least A student with limited English proficiency (LEP) is entitled to 30 minutes per day or 135 minutes per week. receive specialized services from the district. To determine whether the student qualifies for services, a Language Proficiency Students in middle school or junior high school shall engage Assessment Committee (LPAC) will be formed, which will in 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per consist of both district personnel and at least one parent day for at least four semesters OR at least 225 minutes of representative. The student’s parent must consent to any services moderate or vigorous physical activity within a two-week recommended by the LPAC for a LEP student. In order to period for at least four semesters. determine a student’s level of proficiency in English, the LPAC will use information from a variety of assessments. If the student HOMEBOUND PROGRAM qualifies for services and once a level of proficiency has been established, the LPAC will then designate instructional The Homebound/Hospital (H/H) program is a program accommodations or additional special programs the student will designated to serve students who, for physical or emotional require to eventually become proficient at grade level work in reasons, are unable to attend regular school classes for four English. Ongoing assessments will be conducted to determine a weeks or more as specified in writing by a licensed physician student’s continued eligibility for the program. The LPAC will may be eligible for general education homebound services. also determine whether certain accommodations are necessary for Students remain on their school rolls. Attendance is sent in any state-mandated assessments. weekly by the H/H teacher who also contacts the school The STAAR-L, as mentioned at Standardized Testing, below, may teachers, through the counselor, for suggestions of work or be administered to a LEP student. The Texas English Language assignments the student is to complete. The H/H teacher gives Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS) will also be grades and reports progress to the student’s school. For more administered to LEP students who qualify for services. If a student information contact the student’s home campus. [District is considered LEP and receives special education services because Policy EEH (Local)] of a qualifying disability, the student’s ARD committee will make
these decisions.
HOMELESS LOCKERS
For more information on services for homeless students, contact the district’s Liaison for Homeless Children and Lockers are school property and remain under the control and Youths, Robert Worthy, at 281-452-8010. jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student. The student is responsible for making certain that the locker is locked and that the combination is not available to HOMEWORK others. The school reserves the right to inspect all lockers. Searches of lockers may be conducted at any time there is Homework shall be used to support, enrich, or reinforce topics reasonable cause to do so, whether or not a student is present covered in class. A consistent plan for homework assignments [District Policy FNF (LOCAL)]. Lockers are assigned to shall be developed on each campus. The teacher shall be students for the protection of their property. Students must responsible for assigning effective, well-planned homework use only the locker assigned to him or her. Students should assignments. Homework shall not be assigned as punishment. not leave valuables in their lockers.
The student is responsible for completing assignments on time and scheduling after-school activities so that they do not LOST AND OVERDUE BOOKS interfere with completion of assignments. The student assumes the responsibility for making up work when absent Students are expected to clear their record of fines before the from class. end of the school year. Students shall be subject to disciplinary action for failure to clear their records. Students Long periods of drill on school subjects after the child reaches who withdraw from school should clear their record prior to home is not recommended. It can be a valuable experience if withdrawal. discussed briefly. Please have your child complete the assignments and return them promptly. All library books checked out to a student and lost or damaged shall be paid for on the basis of replacement cost or fine as If your child continues to bring numerous incomplete determined by the campus principal. assignments, please get in touch with your child’s teacher. All books sold to students or parents, and all books lost or not accounted for by students, shall be paid for on the basis of the IN LOCO PARENTIS net contract price.
In loco parentis describes the relationship of school personnel to students. Meaning “in place of a parent” it gives school MINUTE OF SILENCE
42 (1) Attendance records A minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. Each (2) Test scores student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any (3) Grades other silent activity so long as the silent activity does not (4) Discipline records interfere with or distract others. [District Policy EC] (5) Counseling records (6) Psychological counselor evaluations ON CAMPUS POLICY (7) Applications for admission No student will be allowed to leave the school campus during (8) Health and immunization information the school day. When students are delivered to the school (9) Other medical records they are to remain on the grounds for the whole day. (10) Teacher and counselor evaluations (11) Reports of behavioral patterns, and When students receive permission to leave the campus (12) State assessment instruments that have been because of illness, suspension, or like cause, they must report administered to his or her child. to the office, where the parent will be notified. . Grant or deny any written request from the District to PARENTING EDUCATION PROGRAM (PEP) make a videotape or voice recording of a child. State law, however, permits the school to make a videotape or voice The district offers enrollment into the Endeavor Learning recording without parental permission for the following Center for any student that is expectant or has a child. For circumstances: more information contact the Channelview Annex at (281) 860-3827. (1) When it is to be used for school safety; (2) When it relates to classroom instruction or a co- curricular or extracurricular activity; or
(3) When it relates to media coverage of the school.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITIES, . If an instructional activity in which the child is scheduled AND RIGHTS to participate in conflicts with the parent’s religious or moral beliefs, the parent may temporarily remove the A child's education succeeds best when there is a strong child from the classroom. The removal cannot be for the partnership between home and school, a partnership that purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an thrives on communication, and that includes parents, teachers, entire semester. Further, the child must satisfy grade- administrators, and the Board of Trustees. Every parent is level and graduation requirements as determined by the urged to: school and by the Texas Education Agency (TEA.)
. Encourage his or her child to put a high priority on . Become a school volunteer. For further information education and commit to making the most of the contact the campus office. educational opportunities the school provides. Ensure that their child completes all homework assignments and . Participate in campus parent organizations. The activities special projects. are varied-ranging from band boosters to district and campus planning committees formulating plans to . Review the information in the student handbook with his improve student achievement. or her child and sign and return the acknowledgment form(s) and the Directory Information notice. A parent . Attend board meetings to learn more about the district with questions is encouraged to contact the principal or operations, including the procedure for addressing the superintendent. board when appropriate. Regular board meetings begin at 7:00 P.M. on the third Tuesday of each month at the . Become familiar with all of the child’s school activities administration building. For more information, call the and with the academic programs, including special superintendent at (281) 452-8008. [District Policy BE and programs, offered in the district. Discuss with the BED] counselor or principal, questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the . The district can not and will not become involved in options available to the child. If the child is entering disputes involving custody or conservator ship of ninth grade, review the requirements of the graduation students. Matters affecting the parent/child relationship programs with him/her. Monitor the child’s academic are matters of law and are not matters over which the progress and contact teachers as needed. district has any lawful control. The school cannot follow . Exercise the right to review teaching materials, textbooks, instructions from one parent about what to do if the other and other aids, and to examine tests that have been parent “appears” at school. The school can cooperate administered to his or her child. with the parent who enrolls the child by attempting to notify the parent who enrolled the child that the other . Review the child’s student records when needed. A parent is present and demanding to take the child from parent may review: school.
43 PARENTS’ “RIGHT TO KNOW” A part of this process is to solicit input from all available resources. Suggestions and recommendations can be Under federal legislation No Child Left Behind, all parents submitted through the district website, by calling (281) 452- may request information on the professional qualifications of 8017, or submitting them in writing to the Curriculum their child’s teacher(s). Information that may be requested Department at 1403 Sheldon Road, Channelview, Texas includes: 77530.
. Whether the teacher meets the state qualifications and PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE licensing criteria for the grades and subjects he or she teaches. Each school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance . Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or to the United States Flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the provisional status because of special circumstances. Texas Flag. A student’s parent or guardian can request in . The teacher’s college major, whether the teacher has any writing to the principal, that the child be excused from reciting advanced degrees, and the field of discipline of the one or both pledges. certification or degree. . Whether paraprofessionals provide services to your child PRAYER and, if so, their qualifications. Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and Parents seeking this information should make their written silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not requests to Kay Kerr, Director of Human Resources, 1403 disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The Sheldon Road, Channelview, Texas 77530. school will not, encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.
PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT PRE-KINDERGARTEN
Annually the district will conduct a physical fitness As required by state law the district offers a pre-kindergarten assessment of students in grades 3-12. At the end of the for eligible four-year-olds. The district has a 22:1 student school year, a parent may request from the teacher to obtain teacher ratio per class. Eligible students will be placed on a the results of his or her child’s physical fitness assessment waiting list if more students seek enrollment than spaces conducted during the year according to TEC. available. A pre-kindergarten student with more than five unexcused absences may be dropped from the program if other PHYSICAL RESTRAINT eligible children are on the waiting list for enrollment.
Any district employee may within the scope of the employee’s PROMOTION AND RETENTION duties, use and apply restraint to a student that the employee reasonably believes is necessary in order to: A student may be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter 1. Protect from physical injury; of the course or grade level. To earn credit in a course, a 2. Obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous student must receive a grade of 70 based on course-level or objects; grade-level standards. 3. Remove from a specific location on school property a student refusing a lawful command of a school employee Please be aware that, a student's satisfactory performance on in order to restore order or impose disciplinary measures; TAKS examinations will be required for promotion in the or following grade levels. 4. Restrain an irrational student. . In order to be promoted to grade six, students must have PLANNING FOR DISTRICT AND CAMPUS performed satisfactorily on TAKS (Math and Reading) IMPROVEMENT English or Spanish in grade five. . In order to be promoted to grade nine, students enrolled in Integrated planning and decision making is a process for grade eight in 2007-2008 must perform satisfactorily on the decentralizing decisions to improve the educational outcomes eighth grade TAKS (Math and Reading) sections in English. at every school campus through a collaborative effort. Through this integrated process, school trustees, the Students who do not perform satisfactorily will have superintendent, district staff, principals, teachers, campus opportunities to participate in special instructional programs staff, parents, students, community and business designed to help them improve their performance. These representatives assess the educational outcomes of all students will have two additional opportunities to take the test. students, determine performance objectives and strategies, and If a student fails a second time a grade placement committee ensure that strategies are implemented. will determine additional special instruction the student will
44 receive. If a student fails a third time he/she will be retained. Each parent also has a right to review all instructional (District Policies EHBC, EI, and EIE) materials used in his or her child’s classroom and to review each test that has been administered to his or her child. In addition to course-level standards, students in grades 3, 4, 6, and 7 shall meet the passing standard established for the RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL grade-level state-mandated assessment. If a student does not meet either the coursework requirements or the passing A student will not be released from school at times other than standard established on the state-mandated assessment, the regular dismissal hours except with principal’s permission or student shall be referred to the grade placement committee according to the campus sign-out procedures. If a student (GPC). becomes ill during the school day the nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any the student’s parents. [District Policy FEF (LOCAL)] student in grades 6 and beyond who did not perform satisfactorily on a state mandated assessment test or is Under no circumstances should a child be taken from school determined by the district as not likely to earn a high school by a parent without following the campus sign-out procedures. diploma before the fifth school year following enrollment in The district utilizes the “Raptor” Identification system to grade nine. For additional information a student or parent screen all visitors arriving on school campuses. should see a school counselor. REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS PROTECTION OF STUDENT RIGHTS Progress reports shall be issued for all students after the third No student will be required to participate without parental week of each grading period. Supplemental progress reports consent in a survey, analysis, or evaluation - funded in whole may be issued at the teacher’s discretion. Parents will be or in part by the U.S. Department of Education- that concerns: given a written progress report if their child’s performance in any course is below 70, or below the expected level of . Political affiliations performance. [District Policy EIA, and Education Code . Mental and psychological problems potentially 28.022] embarrassing to the student or family . Sex behavior and attitudes . A grade is a reflection of a student’s performance . Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, and demeaning demonstrating the degree of mastery of learning behavior objectives. . Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom . Grading practices are to be clearly stated, meaningful, and students or the student’s family has close family communicated in writing to students and parents. Each relationship campus grouping shall determine the minimum number of . Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships grades (primary, elementary, middle school, junior high, with lawyers, physicians, and ministers high school). . Income, except when the information will be used to . Measures used for grading are to be valid and reliable, determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a and the grades themselves should be objective. special program or to receive financial assistance under . Grades are to be based on clearly defined learning such a program objectives that are directly related to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Students’ grades should Parents shall be able to inspect any teaching materials used in be based on the degree of mastery for the grade level, connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. As a subject, or course. Mastery level is to be the major factor parent, you also have a right to receive notice and opt/deny in determining a student’s final grade. permission for your child’s participation in: . Grades are to measure individual student performance to clearly defined learning objectives, not to a group . Surveys concerning the private information listed above performance standard. regardless of funding. . Parents, teachers, and students should have high . School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or expectations for learning success. use of personal information from your child for the . The district shall maintain a 70 percent passing standard. purpose of marketing or selling information. The highest grade a student can earn for make-up work . Any Non-emergency, invasive physical examination or that has been suspended is a 70. screening required as a condition of attendance, . All teachers in all courses shall give semester exams in administered and scheduled by the school in advance and grades 9-12 at Channelview High School. Semester not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety exams shall equal 15% of the semester grade. of the student. Exceptions are: hearing, vision, or . Credit shall be given to an eligible student in grades 6-12 scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening who scores at least 90 percent on a subject area criterion permitted or required under state law. (District Policies referenced test. Eligible students in earlier grades may EF and FFAA) advance a grade level by scoring at least 90 percent in the areas of language arts, math, science, and social studies. . After failing a course or grade level, excluding a district benchmark, credit will be given if the student receives a
45 grade of 70 on a course-level test, grade-level test of the schools, as well as to private institutions. For further essential knowledge and skills curriculum. information contact the school counselor. . After failing a “major” unit test, a student shall have the opportunity for effective remediation and to demonstrate SCHOLASTIC PENALTIES mastery by passing a second test over the unit studied. The highest grade that can be recorded on a retake test is Teachers may not impose scholastic penalties for disciplinary 70. infractions other than academic dishonesty nor shall teachers . A conduct grade of N shall not be given without prior, use scholastic activities as a disciplinary option for infractions. written parental notification. A conduct grade of U shall not be given prior to the issuance of a disciplinary SCHOOL BUSES OR OTHER VEHICLES referral.
The district makes school bus transportation available to all Grading System Pre-K Elementary Schools students. This service is provided at no cost to students. Riding the bus is a privilege. Video cameras may be used in PRE-KINDERGARTEN AND KINDERGARTEN district vehicles to promote compliance with the rules of conduct. Videotapes are protected student records. [District Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten report cards will show Policy FL] Bus routes and subsequent changes are available which specific skills the students’ master. at the school. Further information may be obtained by calling the transportation department at, (281) 452-8020. E = Excellent S = Satisfactory Students are expected to assist the district in ensuring that N = Needs Improvement buses remain in good condition and that transportation is U = Unsatisfactory provided safely. When riding school buses, students must:
GRADES K-6 . Follow the driver’s directions at all times . Be seated as quickly as possible and remain seated. Numerical grades will be recorded on the report card for all Trouble can be avoided if the student will not try to subjects. Grades of E, S, N, or U will be recorded for the “save a seat” for their friends subjects of art, music, and physical education for grades 1- 6. . Board and leave the bus in an orderly manner at the designated bus stop nearest home A = 90 - 100 INC = Incomplete . Not throw waste paper or other trash on the floor of B = 80 – 89 E = Excellent the bus or out the window C = 75 – 79 S = Satisfactory . Not use tobacco in any form D = 70 - 74 N = Needs Improvement . Not eat or drink on the bus F = 69 – Below U = Unsatisfactory . Not extend their arms, feet, or head out the bus window Grading System - Junior High and High Schools . Remain in their seats while the bus is in motion . Engage in ordinary conversation not shouting or The grading system for the district consists of a numerical disturbing noises scale from 70 to 100. Grades, which are temporarily . Be on time to catch a bus. The bus cannot wait for incomplete, will be indicated by the mark “I”. The following students who are tardy. numerical values are assigned to each respectively: . Stand at a safe distance from the pavement or roadway so that a bus can pull off the road shoulder A 90-100 Excellent . Damage should be reported promptly to the driver B 80-89 Good and/or the director of transportation C 75-79 Fair . Students going to and from a bus stop should walk D 70-74 Poor facing oncoming traffic. They should stay several F 69 or below Failing feet off the street or roadway. I Incomplete FOR VIOLATION OF BUS RULES OR OTHER Students enrolled in courses for dual high school and college STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT RULES THE credit will be subject to the grading system used by the college FOLLOWING STEPS WILL BE USED: system offering the course. (Any discipline action will be in accordance with the Student SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS (STATE) Code of Conduct.)
Students who have a financial need according to federal FIRST OFFENSE: criteria and who complete the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program may be The driver will give the student adequate warning, but not eligible under the Texas Grant program for tuition and fees to keep repeating this warning without meaning. Inform the Texas public universities, community colleges, and technical parents in writing that their child is not cooperating (bus conduct referral: discipline code 601).
46
SECOND OFFENSE: The Channelview Independent School District has facilities that contain asbestos building materials. An Asbestos The driver will assign the student a front seat to allow closer Management Plan is located in the office of each facility. This supervision. Inform the parent in writing that their child is not plan gives detailed information concerning building asbestos cooperating (bus conduct referral: discipline code 602). found in the 1988/89 ISD statute of Environmental Assessment Inspection and is available in the principal’s THIRD OFFENSE: office. If you have any questions, please contact Mike Lyons, the district’s maintenance director at (281) 452-8005. [District Principal will issue a one-day suspension from riding the bus Policy CKA and DI] or conduct a parent conference. If such a suspension occurs, the parent (s) or guardian shall be notified prior to the Pesticide Management Plan effective time of the suspension. Inform the parent in writing that their child is not cooperating (bus conduct referral: The school periodically applies pesticides as part of an discipline code 603). integrated pest management program. All persons applying pesticides at the school are required to receive special training in pesticide application and pest control. In addition, the FOURTH OFFENSE: school has a policy that requires use of non-chemical pest control tactics whenever it is possible that pesticides may Principal will issue a five to seven day suspension from riding periodically be applied. Except in an emergency, signs will be the bus and inform the parent in writing that their child is not posted 48 hours before application. Parents who want to be cooperating (bus conduct referral: discipline code 604). notified prior to the application inside their child’s school may contact the principal [Sec. 595.8 (c) of Title 22, Texas Adm. FIFTH OFFENSE: Code]
Exclusion from riding the bus for the remainder of the year. If Recycling misconduct occurs within the last six weeks, suspension will carry over for the first semester of the next year. Inform the Channelview Independent School District encourages parent in writing that their child is not cooperating (bus environmental awareness and recycling in its schools. conduct referral: discipline code 605). Information about the recycling program of individual campuses is available from the principal. The school bus driver is to be responsible to the principal as well as the transportation department. The driver is to report SCHOOL RECORDS all discipline problems immediately in writing to the principal. A student’s school records are private and are protected from Principals are held responsible for enforcing all rules and unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is regulations pertaining to bus transportation approved by the maintained for each student from the time the student enters district. the district until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school. In the case of serious misconduct that endangers the safety of By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, other passengers or the driver, the driver shall stop the bus and have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a call the transportation department for assistance. dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the Principals may use stronger disciplinary options if severe school is given a copy of the court order terminating these misbehavior occurs (bus conduct referral: discipline code rights. 606). Disciplinary sanctions and changes in transportation for a The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled handicapped student shall be made in accordance with students at the assigned school. The superintendent is the provisions in the student’s Individual Education Plan. custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school SCHOOL FACILITIES hours upon written request. The record custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and The taxpayers of the community have made a financial interpretation of the records. If circumstances prevent a parent commitment for the construction and upkeep of school or eligible student from inspecting the records, the district will facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for either provide a copy of the requested records, or make other whom they are intended-both this year and in the coming arrangements for the parent or student to review the requested years-littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not records. tolerated. Students will be required to make restitution for damages they cause and shall be subject to disciplinary Parents of a minor or a student who is a dependent for tax consequences. purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have Asbestos Management Plan general access to a student’s records. “School officials with
47 legitimate educational interests” include any employees, hearing, the requester has 30 school days to exercise the right agents, or Trustees of the district, cooperatives, or contractual to place a statement commenting on the information in the placement facilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants student’s records. Although improperly recorded grades may who are: be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process found in . Working with the student; [District Policy FNG]. Parents or students have the right to file . Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they student’s case, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for believe the district is not in compliance with the law regarding a student with disabilities under IDEA, or an student records. individually designed program for a student with Copies of student records are available at a cost of 55 cents for disabilities under Section 504; the first page plus 15 cents for each additional page, payable . Compiling statistical data; or in advance. Parents may be denied copies of a student’s . Investigating or evaluating programs. records
The parent’s or student’s right of access to, and copies of, (1) After the student reaches age 18 and is no longer student records. dependent for tax purposes; (2) When the student is attending an institution of post- Parents may review their child’s records. These records secondary education; include: (3) If the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge; or; . Attendance records (4) When the district is given a copy of a court order . Test Scores terminating the parental rights. If the student . Grades qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches and the . Disciplinary records parents are unable to view the records during the . Counseling records regular school hours, upon written request of the . Psychological records parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no . Applications for admission charge. . Health and immunization information . Other medical records Certain information about district students is considered . Teacher and counselor evaluations directory information and will be released to anyone who . Reports of behavioral patterns follows the proper procedure for requesting it, unless the . State assessment instruments that have been parent objects to the release of any or all directory information administered to their child about the child. The opportunity to exercise such an objection was provided on the form signed by the parent to acknowledge Materials that are not considered educational records, such as receipt of this handbook. Should circumstances change; the teachers’ personal notes on a student that are shared only with parent can contact the principal to indicate his or her desire to a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students after change the original request. Directory information includes: a they are no longer students in the district, and records student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes birth, participation in officially recognized activities and other than school discipline do not have to be made available sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, to the parents or student. photographs, dates of attendance, awards received in school, and most recent previous school attended. Certain other officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records. The district forwards a Parents of a student with disabilities who have been provided student’s records on request and without prior parental consent special education services by the district will be notified when to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. information that specifically identifies the student is no longer Records are also released in accordance with court order or needed. If the parent requests destruction of the information lawfully issued subpoena. Unless the subpoena is issued for and the time established by law for retention has expired, the law enforcement purposes and the subpoena orders that its records will be destroyed. If the retention period established contents, existence or the information sought not be disclosed, by law has not expired, the material will be deleted from the the district will make a reasonable effort to notify the parent or records but the records will be maintained until the time has eligible student in advance of compliance. Parental consent is expired. [District Policy FL] required to release the records to anyone else. When the student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right SCHOOL SAFETY TRANSFERS to consent to the release of records. The parent of a student who becomes a victim of a Students over 18 and parents of minor students may inspect violent criminal offense as described above or who is the student’s records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the assigned to a campus identified by TEA as persistently student’s privacy or other rights. If the district refuses the dangerous shall be offered a transfer to a safe public or request to amend the records, the requester has the right to a charter school within the District. hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the
48 For each transfer requested, the District shall explore courtesy and respect, to avoid behaviors known to be transfer options, as appropriate. Options may include a offensive, and to stop those when asked or told to stop. transfer agreement with another school district. A substantiated complaint against a student will result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the nature of the SEARCHES BY TRAINED DOGS offense and the Student Code of Conduct.
To help provide a safe learning environment the district will The district will notify the parents of all students involved in contract with an agency to have lockers, campus facilities, and sexual harassment by student(s) when the allegations are not cars searched by trained dogs. [District Policy FNF] minor; and will notify parents of incidents of sexual
harassment or sexual abuse by an employee. To the greatest SEARCHES CONDUCTED BY AUTHORITIES extent possible, complaints will be treated confidentially. Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough 1. Students shall be free from unreasonable search and investigation. seizure by school officials. School officials may search a student or a student’s property with the student’s consent A complaint alleging sexual harassment by another student or or with reasonable or probable cause. sexual harassment or sexual abuse by a staff member may be 2. Searches of the student’s outer clothing, pockets and/or presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the property may be conducted if reasonable cause exists. The principal or designee or with the Title IX coordinator. The official may ask the student to remove objects being parent or other advisor may accompany their student stored or hidden in clothing. An adult witness must be throughout the complaint process. The first conference with present for all searches. the student ordinarily will be held by a person who is the same gender as the student. The conference will be scheduled and 3. Searches of the student’s person shall be conducted only held as soon as possible, but no later than five days after the if probable cause exists to believe that the student request. The principal or Title IX coordinator will conduct an possesses contraband (weapons, drugs, etc.). The search appropriate investigation, which ordinarily will be completed must be conducted by an adult of the same sex. Strip within ten days. The student and/or parent will be informed of searches are prohibited. Prior to conducting a personal extenuating circumstances that delay completion of the search, a reasonable effort will be made to inform the investigation. student’s parent or guardian and, when possible, to give The student will not be required to present a complaint to a the parent or guardian the opportunity to be present person who is the subject of the complaint. during the search. 4. If law enforcement authorities are involved in a search, If the resolution of the complaint is not satisfactory to the the search shall be conducted under criminal law student or parent, they may within ten days, request a standards rather than provisions of this policy. conference with the superintendent or designee. Prior to or at 5. School personnel are not to use physical restraint to this conference, the student and/or parent must submit the conduct searches unless immediate danger is present. If complaint in writing and must include: the student refuses to cooperate the student becomes subject to disciplinary action for “gross/willful (1) A complete statement of the complaint, insubordination”. (2) Any evidence supporting the complaint, (3) A statement about how the matter should be resolved, 6. If a student leaves the scene of a search without (4) The student and/or parent’s signature, and the date of permission, this action may be considered an admission of the conference with the principal, the principal’s guilt. The student will become subject to disciplinary designee, or the Title IX coordinator. action for “gross/willful insubordination”. If the resolution by the superintendent or designee is not SEXUAL HARASSMENT satisfactory, the student and/or parent may present the complaint to the board at the next regular meeting. The district encourages parental and student support in its Information on the procedure for addressing the board can be efforts to address and prevent sexual harassment and sexual obtained from any campus office or the superintendent’s abuse in the public schools. Students and/or parents are office. encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns about expectations in this area with a teacher, counselor, principal, or assistant superintendent, who serves as the District Title IX SPECIAL PROGRAMS coordinator for students. The district provides many special programs. A student or Students must not engage in unwanted and unwelcome verbal parent with questions about these programs can review the or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward another district policy on the program or contact the campus student or a district employee. This prohibition applies principal or the superintendent’s office. whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any other sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors. All students are expected to treat other students and district employees with
49 must Program District Policy be Gifted and talented students Policy EHBB submi Bilingual students Policy EHBE tted no Dyslexic students Policy EHB later
Students with disabilities Policy EHBA than the At-risk students Policy EHBC 14th day Tutorial, remedial, and Policy EHBD after compensatory students the enroll Alternative school students Policy EHBG ment of your children. [District Policy FDD LEGAL] STATE MANDATED TESTS STUDENT/PARENT- SCHOOL TRANSFER In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, REQUEST students at certain grade levels will take state mandated tests such as; TAKS: (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills), Students shall be assigned to schools in the attendance areas in TAKS M, TAKS A, TAKS ALT, TELPAS which they reside and may transfer to a school in another attendance zone with a timely completion of a transfer Objectives tested at each grade and each subject are available application approved by the assistant superintendent. The upon request from the principal. Students who fail to master assistant superintendent will review the application and make any section of TAKS shall receive appropriate remediation in a decision, based in part, on the following criteria. that subject area and may be required to attend summer . Projected class size school. To receive a high school diploma, students must . Campus enrollment successfully pass exit-level tests. [District Policy EIF and . Student attendance EKB] . Academic performance . Discipline Tests results will be reported to students and parents. Parents . Special Programs may review an assessment test that has been given to their . Application deadline child. . Drop off and pick up times . Previous transfers or requests Certain students, such as students with disabilities and . Falsification of information students with limited English proficiency are eligible for . Impact on campus programs and staff exemptions, accommodations, or a deferment. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director. As a parent, you have the right:
STUDENT OFFICES AND ELECTIONS . To request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been Each campus shall have on file written information such as determined by the board or it’s designee to have been becoming a candidate, campaigning, filling vacancies, special a victim of bullying as the term is defined by academic requirement or standards of conduct for leadership, Education Code 25.0341. Transportation is not and social positions that have been approved by the principal provided for a transfer to another campus and superintendent. . To request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district if your child attends STUDENT/PARENT- SCHEDULE CHANGE/ school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently TEACHER CHANGE REQUEST dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense while at school or on school Within the first three days of each semester a parent may grounds [District Policy FDD LOCAL] request a change of schedule, or teacher for any reason. The request shall be honored if possible. Schedule and teacher . To request the transfer of your child to another changes after the first three days shall be made only as campus or a neighboring district if your child has authorized by the principal. been a victim of a sexual assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and campus, [District Policy FDD LOCAL] you may request that they be placed either in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. Your written request SUMMER SCHOOL
50
The district will offer a variety of special summer school Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction programs. Contact the school office for details. of the school. The school may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the TARDIES presence of the student. A student is fully responsible for the security of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is Tardy slips will be issued per campus procedures. Students locked and that keys are not given to others. The privilege of shall be tardy to school if they are not in their classroom when bringing a vehicle to campus may be revoked for violation of the tardy bell rings to start the school day or any of the class safety rules. Through all hours of the day and night, the periods. When a student is detained at the end of a class maximum speed limit on all streets is 15 miles per hour and 10 period by a teacher, a signed statement from that teacher shall miles per hour on parking lots; pedestrians shall, at all times, be provided for the student’s next teacher. Students shall be have the right of way. Students are to observe all traffic signs. subject to disciplinary action for being tardy to school or class. The district assumes no responsibility for the care and/or If a student misses more than 50% of a class, he or she shall be protection of any vehicle or its contents while the vehicle is counted absent instead of tardy. operated or parked on campus; however, every effort will be made by the patrol officers to protect all vehicles and property. TELEPHONES The school reserves the right to impound, or have impounded, any vehicle, which is, parked in a manner dangerous to Students will not be called to the telephone during classes vehicular or pedestrian traffic or otherwise in violation of unless it is for the purpose of receiving an emergency message school traffic regulations. The vehicle owner is responsible from the parent or legal guardian. Students will not be for the cost involved in removing, impounding, and storing permitted to leave class to make phone calls. Students may such a vehicle. Students are to leave their vehicles as soon as use part of their lunchtime to make telephone calls. they have been parked correctly. No student is to return to his or her vehicle during the day unless he or she has proper clearance through an assistant principal’s office. A parking TEXTBOOKS sticker may be required of students.
State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as VENDING MACHINES directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student issued a damaged book should report it to the teacher. Any The district has adopted policies and implemented procedures student failing to return a book issued by the school loses the to comply with the state and federal food service guidelines right to free textbooks until the book is returned or paid for by for restricting student access to vending machines. For more the parent. A student will be provided textbooks for use at information regarding these policies and guidelines see the school during the school day and if requested by parent campus administrator. textbooks may be checked out for home. [District Policy CMD] VISITORS
TOBACCO PROHIBITED Parents and other visitors are welcome to visit district schools. For the safety of the school and those within it, all visitors The Channelview Independent School district and staff must first report to the school office. Visits to individual enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with students and others on school property or at school- sponsored approval of the principal and teacher if the duration or or school-related activities. [District Policy BDF and EHAA] frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. [District Policy GKC and GKA] TRAVEL-SCHOOL-SPONSORED
Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are VIDEOTAPES/VOICE RECORDINGS required to use transportation provided by the school to and Parents may grant or deny any written request from the district from the event. The principal or sponsor, however, may make to make a videotape or voice recording of their child. There is an exception if the parent personally requests that the student a Publicity Release Form located in the Appendix Section of be permitted to ride with the parent, or the parent presents-no the handbook. Parents are asked to complete the form and later than the day before the scheduled trip-a written request return it to their child's school. that the student be permitted to ride with an adult designated by the parent. Please Note: It is important to return the completed form to the school, regardless if the selection is to grant or deny. TUTORIALS The schools need this information for their records. State law, Each school will provide tutorial services. For schedule however, permits the school to make a videotape or voice information, please contact the school office. recording without parental permission for the following circumstances: VEHICLES ON CAMPUS
51 . When it is used for safety purposes to monitor . Cobb student behavior on buses and in common areas on . Harvey Brown selected campuses. It is not necessary for students to be told when the equipment is being used. Call the W.D. Ley Family YMCA at (281) 458-7777 for . When it relates to classroom instruction or a co- registration, fee information, etc. curricular or extracurricular activity. . When it relates to media coverage of the school. ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
The principal will review the tapes routinely and document The district has a commitment to parents and students in student misconduct. Discipline will be in accordance with the maintaining a safe and secure learning environment. In Student Code of Conduct. striving to do so, the district takes a “ZERO TOLERANCE” position against weapons, illegal drugs, gang activity, and A parent, who wants to view a videotape following discipline violent or abusive behavior in any school environment. By of that parent's child, may request access in accordance with ZERO TOLERANCE the district means to be as strict as [District Policy FL] in the District's policy manual. school board policy and state and federal laws allow. Any student violating this policy will be subject to district WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL disciplinary action and/or legal action including possible citations and/or arrest by local law enforcement agencies. A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by the parent or guardian. The parent or guardian should be prepared to present a picture ID to school officials when withdrawing the student. In the event there are legal documents affecting custody of the student, a copy must be provided to the campus prior to withdrawal and may affect a parent’s or legal guardian’s ability to withdraw a student. The parent or legal guardian withdrawing the student should notify the school in writing or by phone at least 24 hours in advance in order to provide time for the school to complete the withdrawal procedures. A withdrawal form will be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book and equipment clearance; to the librarian to ensure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and finally, to the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student/parent/guardian, and a copy will be placed in the student’s permanent record.
Notwithstanding the above, a student who fails to attend school without parent contact or other notification to the District regarding the student’s absence for ten (10) consecutive days may be administratively withdrawn by the school district.
YMCA AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
In the YMCA After School Program, children participate in a balanced program of open play and structured activities while being supervised by a well-trained and caring staff. In addition to a variety of learning centers, the program also provides homework assistance, nutritional snacks, recreation, and youth fitness. Many of the sites also offer the opportunities to participate in Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts. School-age childcare is available during holiday and summer vacation breaks as well as school in-service days.
YMCA staff is on duty at school dismissal time and the program runs until 6:00 P.M. each day, Monday through Friday.
Locations include: . Hamblen
52
Glossary
Accelerated instruction is an intensive supplemental program designed to address the needs of an individual student in acquiring the knowledge and skills required at his or her grade level and/or as a result of a student not meeting the passing standard on a state-mandated assessment. ACT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams: the American College Test. The test may be a requirement for admission to certain colleges or universities.
ARD is the admission, review, and dismissal committee convened for each student who is identified as needing a full and individual evaluation for special education services. The eligible student and his or her parents are members of the committee.
Attendance review committee is sometimes responsible for reviewing a student’s absences when the student’s attendance drops below 90 percent of the days the class is offered. Under guidelines adopted by the board, the committee will determine whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences and whether the student needs to complete certain conditions to master the course and regain credit lost because of absences.
DAEP stands for disciplinary alternative education program, a placement for students who have violated certain provisions of the Student Code of Conduct.
EOC assessments are end-of-course tests, which are state-mandated, and are part of the STAAR program. Successful performance on EOC assessments will be required for graduation beginning with students in grade 9 during the 2011–2012 school year. These exams will be given in English I, English II, English III, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, World Geography, World History, and United States History.
FERPA refers to the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act that grants specific privacy protections to student records. The law contains certain exceptions, such as for directory information, unless a student’s parent or a student 18 or older directs the school not to release directory information.
IEP is the written record of the individualized education program prepared by the ARD committee for a student with disabilities who is eligible for special education services. The IEP contains several parts, such as a statement of the student’s present educational performance; a statement of measurable annual goals, with short-term objectives; the special education and related services and supplemental aids and services to be provided, and program modifications or support by school personnel; a statement regarding how the student’s progress will be measured and how the parents will be kept informed; accommodations for state or district wide tests; whether successful completion of state-mandated assessments is required for graduation, etc.
ISS refers to in-school suspension, a disciplinary technique for misconduct found in the Student Code of Conduct. Although different from out-of-school suspension and placement in a DAEP, ISS removes the student from the regular classroom.
LAT stands for linguistically accommodated testing, which is an assessment process for recent immigrant English language learners who are required to be assessed in certain grades and subjects under the NCLB Act.
53 NCLB Act is the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.
PGP stands for Personal Graduation Plan, which is recommended for all students entering grade 9 and is required by state law for any student in middle school or higher who fails a section on a state-mandated test or is identified by the district as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year after he or she begins grade 9.
SAT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams: the Scholastic Aptitude Test. The test may be a requirement for admissions to certain colleges or universities.
SHAC stands for School Health Advisory Council, a group of at least five members, a majority of whom must be parents, appointed by the school board to assist the district in ensuring that local community values and health issues are reflected in the district’s health education instruction.
Section 504 is the federal law that prohibits discrimination against a student with a disability, requiring schools to provide opportunities for equal services, programs, and participation in activities. Unless the student is determined to be eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), general education with appropriate instructional accommodations will be provided.
STAAR is the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, the state’s system of standardized academic achievement assessments, effective beginning with certain students for the 2011–2012 school year.
STAAR Alternate is an alternative state-mandated assessment designed for students with severe cognitive disabilities receiving special education services who meet the participation requirements, as determined by the student’s ARD committee.
STAAR Modified is an alternative state-mandated assessment based on modified achievement standards that is administered to eligible students receiving special education services, as determined by the student’s ARD committee.
STAAR Linguistically Accommodated (STAAR L) is an alternative state-mandated assessment with linguistic accommodations designed for certain recent immigrant English language learners.
State-mandated assessments are required of students at certain grade levels and in specified subjects. Successful performance sometimes is a condition of promotion, and passing the grade 11 exit-level test or end-of-course assessments, when applicable, is a condition of graduation. Students have multiple opportunities to take the tests if necessary for promotion or graduation.
Student Code of Conduct is developed with the advice of the district-level committee and adopted by the board and identifies the circumstances, consistent with law, when a student may be removed from the classroom or campus. It also sets out the conditions that authorize or require the principal or another administrator to place the student in a DAEP. It outlines conditions for out-of-school suspension and for expulsion. The Student Code of Conduct also addresses notice to the parent regarding a student’s violation of one of its provisions.
TAKS is the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, the state’s standardized achievement test currently given to students in certain subjects in grades 10 and 11 and is required for graduation for students at these grade levels.
TELPAS stands for the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System, which assesses the progress that English language learners make in learning the English language, and is administered for those who meet the participation requirements in Kindergarten–grade 12.
TxVSN is the Texas Virtual School Network, which provides online courses for Texas students to supplement the instructional programs of public school districts. Courses are taught by qualified instructors, and courses are equivalent in rigor and scope to a course taught in a traditional classroom setting.
UIL refers to the University Interscholastic League, the statewide voluntary nonprofit organization that oversees educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contests.
54
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
55
PURPOSE
This Student Code of Conduct has been adopted by the Channelview ISD Board of Trustees and developed with the advice of the district-level committee. This Code provides information to parents and students regarding standards of conduct, consequences of misconduct, and procedures for administering discipline.
In accordance with state law, the Code will be posted at each school campus or will be available for review at the office of the campus principal. Additionally, the Code will be posted on the district’s web site along with the Student Handbook. Parent will be notified of any conduct violation that may result in a student being suspended, placed in a DAEP, or expelled.
Education in this community represents a significant commitment of financial and human resources. The benefits a student derives from this investment depend very much on the student’s attitude toward learning and the student’s adherence to high standards of behavior.
The Student Code of Conduct that follows is the district’s specific response to requirements of Chapter 37 of the Texas Education Code. This law requires the district to define misconduct that may or must result in a range of specific disciplinary consequences. This Code is an outgrowth of collaboration among district and campus staff, parents, and other community members. This Code, adopted by the Board of Trustees, provides information and direction to students and parents regarding standards of behavior as well as consequences of misconduct.
BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
Each student is expected to:
. Demonstrate courtesy and respect for others;
. Behave in a responsible manner;
. Attend all classes, regularly and on time;
. Prepare for each class; take appropriate materials, do assignments while in class, and bring homework assignments to class; . Be well-groomed and dress appropriately;
. Respect the rights and privileges of other students and of teachers and district staff;
. Respect the property of others, including district property and facilities;
. Cooperate with or assist the school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline;
. Avoid violations of the Student Code of Conduct; and
. Obey all campus and classroom rules
CONSEQUENCES
A student whose behavior shows disrespect for others, including interference with their access to a public education and a safe environment, will be subject to disciplinary action.
School rules and the authority of the district to administer discipline apply whenever the interest of the school is involved on or off school grounds in conjunction with or independent of classes and school-sponsored activities.
The district has disciplinary authority over a student:
. During the regular school day and while the student is going to and from school on district transportation;
. During lunch periods in which a student is allowed to leave campus
56 . While the student is participating in any activity during the school days on school grounds or within 300 feet of the school's real property boundary line;
. While the student is in attendance at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location;
. For any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location;
. When retaliation against a school employee occurs or is threatened, regardless of time or location;
. When the student commits a felony as provided by Texas Education Code 37.006; and
. When criminal mischief is committed on or off school property or at a school-related event.
. When the student is required to register as a sex offender
. To search a vehicle driven to school by a student and parked on school property whenever there is reasonable cause to believe it contains articles or materials prohibited by the district.
. To search a student’s locker or desk when there is reasonable cause to believe it contains articles or materials prohibited by the district.
In general, discipline will be designed to correct misconduct and to encourage adherence by all students to their responsibilities as citizens of the school community. Discipline action will draw on the professional judgment of teachers and administrators and on a range of discipline management techniques. Discipline action will be correlated to the seriousness of the offense, the student’s age, grade level, the frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude, the effect of the misconduct on the school environment, and statutory requirements. Because of these factors, discipline for a particular offense (unless otherwise specified by law) may bring into consideration varying techniques and responses.
The district may impose campus or classroom rules in addition to those found in the Student Code of Conduct. These rules may be posted in classrooms/hallways and may or may not constitute violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
The following discipline management techniques may be used alone or in combination for Student Code of Conduct and non- Student Code of Conduct violations:
. Oral correction
. Cooling-off time or “time-out”
. Seating changes in the classroom
. Counseling by teachers, counselors, or administrative personnel
. Parent-teacher conferences
. Temporary confiscation of items that disrupt the educational process
. Grade reduction as permitted by policy
. Rewards or demerits
. Behavioral contracts
. Detention as permitted by [District Policy FOC (LOCAL)]
. Assigned school duties other than class tasks
. Withdrawal of privileges, such as participation in extracurricular activities and eligibility for seeking and holding honorary offices
. Techniques or penalties identified in individual student organizations’ code of conduct
. Withdrawing or restricting bus privileges
57
. School-assessed and school-administered probation
. Corporal punishment as permitted by ]District Policy FOB (LOCAL)]
. Referral to outside and/or legal authority for criminal prosecution in addition to disciplinary measures imposed by the district
. In-school suspension
. Other strategies and consequences as specified by the Student Code of Conduct.
Parental questions or complaints regarding disciplinary measures taken should be addressed to the teacher or campus administration as appropriate and in accordance with [District Policy FNG]. A copy of this policy may be obtained from the principal's office or the central administration office. Consequences will not be deferred pending the outcome of a grievance.
The district has the right to search a student’s locker or desk when there is reasonable cause to believe it contains articles or materials prohibited by the district. OR
District administrators conduct routine blanket inspections and searches of lockers and desks.
School administrators will report crimes as required by law and will call local law enforcement when an administrator suspects that a crime has been committed on campus.
The district has the right to revoke the transfer of a nonresident student for violating the district’s Code.
DISCRETIONARY REMOVAL
General misconduct violations will not necessarily result in the formal removal of the student from class or another placement, but may result in a routine removal, formal removal or the use of any other discipline management techniques.
FORMAL REMOVAL BY A TEACHER
Formal removal may result if the student’s behavior has been documented by the teacher as repeatedly interfering with the teacher’s ability to teach his or her class or the behavior is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that the teacher cannot teach and the students in the classroom cannot learn.
Any removal of a student by a teacher requires that a Student Code of Conduct violation report be made by the teacher if the student’s conduct is a violation of this Code. The principal or appropriate administrator must send a copy of the report to the student’s parent or guardian within 24 hours of receiving the teacher’s report.
A teacher or administrator must remove a student from class if the student engages in behavior for which the Education Code requires disciplinary Alternative Education Program and/or suspension. A teacher or administrator may also remove a student from class for an offense for which a student may be suspended and/or placed in a disciplinary alternative educational program.
If the violation results in formal removal, the principal will schedule a conference within three school days with the student’s parent, the teacher, and the student. At the conference, the principal or appropriate administrator will inform the student of the misconduct for which he or she is charged and allow the student to explain his or her version of the incident. The principal or appropriate administrator will notify the student of the consequences of the Student Code of Conduct violation. The conference shall be held regardless of parental attendance.
When a student has been formally removed from class, the principal may not return the student to the teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent unless the placement review committee determines that the teacher’s class is the best or only alternative available.
ADMINISTRATIVE OPTIONS FOR FORMAL REMOVAL BY A TEACHER
If the student is removed by the teacher under these circumstances and the teacher has appropriately documented the reasons for the removal, the student may not be returned to the teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent. The options available to the principal include:
58
. Placement in another appropriate classroom . Placement in in-school suspension . Placement in an alternative education program
REVIEW FOR STUDENTS REMOVED BY TEACHER
1. Not later than the third class day after the day on which a student is removed, the school principal shall schedule a meeting among the principal or designee, a parent or guardian of the student, the teacher removing the student from the class, and the student.
2. The student may not be returned to the removing teacher’s classroom over the teacher’s objection. Pending the meeting, the principal may place the student into in-school suspension, in another class, or suspend from school if the student has engaged in misconduct for which placement in an AEP is permitted.
3. At the meeting, the principal shall afford all parties an opportunity to be heard; however, the conduct and control of the hearing shall be within the absolute discretion of the principal.
4. Following the meeting and whether or not each requested person is in attendance after valid attempts to require the person’s attendance, the principal may return the student to the class of the teacher who removed the student unless the teacher objects to the student’s return. If the teacher objects, the principal shall order the placement of the student to another class, into an alternative education program, or may refer the student to the Campus Placement Review Committee for determination as to placement. The teacher may not be coerced to accept the student without a determination by the Campus Placement Review Committee.
5. The Placement Review Committee will make the determination as to whether the student may be returned to the removing teacher’s class. The student may not be returned to the teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent unless the committee determines that such placement is the best or only alternative available.
6. If the decision is to place the student in an AEP, the campus will follow the procedures that are provided in this document for removal to an AEP.
PLACEMENT REVIEW COMMITTEE FOR TEACHER REMOVAL OF STUDENTS
Each campus shall have a placement review committee composed of three members. The committee will determine placement of a student when a teacher has removed the student and refuses to allow the return of the student to the teacher’s class. The committee will make a final determination of the student’s placement at the campus level.
. The campus faculty shall choose two teachers to serve as members and one teacher to serve as an alternate member. . The principal shall choose one member from the professional staff of the campus. . The teacher refusing to readmit the student may not serve on the committee.
EMERGENCY PLACEMENT OR EXPULSION
State law allows the principal or designee to order immediate placement of a student in an AEP or emergency expulsion if the student’s behavior is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that it interferes with:
. The teacher’s ability to communicate effectively . The student’s classmates’ ability to learn . The operation of the school or school-sponsored activity
State law allows that the principal or designee may order the immediate expulsion of a student when people or property is in imminent harm. (Discipline code 701)
At the time of emergency placement or emergency expulsion, the student will be given oral notice for the reason of the action. Within a reasonable time after the action, written notice shall be provided to the student’s parent or guardian concerning the student’s rights and entitlement to due process as described in the sections on alternative education programs or expulsion. If emergency placement involves a student with disabilities who receives education services, the term of the student's emergency removal is subject to the requirements of federal law.
59
SUSPENSION
Students with disabilities are subject to applicable state and federal law in addition to the Student Code of Conduct. To the extent any conflict exists, state and/or federal law will prevail. State law allows a student to be suspended for up to three school days per offense, with no limit on the number of times a student may be suspended in a semester or school year.
A student who is to be suspended will be given an informal conference by the principal or appropriate administrator advising the student in writing of the Student Code of Conduct violation with which he or she is charged and giving the student the opportunity to explain his or her version of the incident.
The duration of a student’s suspension, which cannot exceed three school days, will be determined by the principal or other appropriate administrator.
A suspended student shall not participate in school-sponsored or school-related extracurricular and non-curricular activities, unless a waiver is granted by the Superintendent of Schools.
No student under the age of 18 shall be allowed to leave a campus for an out of school suspension without prior parental notification.
REMOVAL TO AN ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM (APOLLO)
Students with disabilities are subject to applicable state and federal law in addition to the Student Code of Conduct. To the extent any conflict exists, state and/or federal law will prevail.
Pursuant to state law and Board of Education policy, a student must be placed in a disciplinary alternative school for any of the 400 series offenses (contained in the Code of Conduct) if the student commits these offenses on school property or within 500 feet of school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property.
Within three school days of receiving the Student Code of Conduct violation report for which a student may be placed in Apollo, the principal will schedule a conference with the student and parent or guardian. At the conference, the student is entitled to written or oral notice of the reasons for the removal, an explanation of the basis for the removal, and an opportunity to respond to the reasons for removal. The student may not be returned to the regular class pending the conference. The principal or appropriate administrator will notify the student of the consequences of the Student Code of Conduct violation and the student's length of placement in Apollo and information as required by Section 52.04 of the Family Code. The conference shall be held regardless of parental attendance.
Following the conference, after valid attempts to require the requested person’s attendance, the principal shall order the placement of the student for a period consistent with the Student Code of Conduct. (District Policies FOC LEGAL, and FO LEGAL)
A student placed in Apollo shall not seek nor hold any honorary positions and/or memberships in school-sponsored clubs or organizations of the regular campus.
The board delegates to the superintendent the authority to establish time frames for placement in the DAEP. Students placed in the disciplinary alternative education program will not be permitted to participate in any school-sponsored or school-related extracurricular and non-curricular activities. Students are not to go to any other campus for any reason without the campus principal's permission. The district will provide transportation.
While in Apollo any Level III or greater Student Code of Conduct violation may lead to expulsion and referral for placement within the Harris County juvenile justice alternative education programs (JJAEP) or in a setting provided by the District, or through a private provider.
A student placed in a disciplinary alternative education program will be provided a review of the student's placement, including academic status, by the principal at intervals not to exceed 120 days. In the case of high school students, the student's progress toward graduation and the student's graduation plan will also be reviewed. At the review, the student or the student's parent or guardian will be given the opportunity to present arguments for the student’s return to the regular classroom or campus.
For placement in a disciplinary alternative education program to extend beyond the end of the school year, the principal must determine that:
60 . The student's presence in the regular classroom or on the regular campus presents a danger of physical harm to students or other individuals.
. The student has engaged in serious or persistent misbehavior that violates the Student Code of Conduct.
Students under the age of six will not be removed from class or placed in a disciplinary alternative education program.
For seniors who are eligible to graduate and are placed in Apollo, the student will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony and related graduation activities, unless a wavier is granted by the superintendent.
The juvenile court will notify the District of:
. Prosecution if the student's case was refused for lack of prosecutorial merit or insufficient evidence and no formal proceedings, deferred adjudication, or deferred prosecution will be initiated; or
. The court or jury found the student not guilty or made a finding the child did not engage in delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision and the case was dismissed with prejudice.
On receipt of the notice mentioned above from the juvenile court, the superintendent or his designee will review the student's placement in the disciplinary alternative education program. The student may not be returned to the regular classroom pending the review. The superintendent or designee will schedule a review of the student's placement with the student's parent or guardian not later than the third day after the superintendent or designee receives notice from the juvenile court.
After reviewing the notice and receiving information from the student's parents or guardian, the superintendent or designee may continue the student's placement in the disciplinary alternative education program if there is reason to believe that the presence of the student in regular classroom threatens the safety of other students or teachers. The student or the student's parent or guardian may appeal the superintendent's decision to the Board. The student may not be returned to the regular classroom pending the appeal.
This appeal process does not apply to placements resulting from offense for which the state requires mandatory disciplinary alternative education program placement.
The Board will, at the next scheduled meeting, review the notice from the juvenile court and receive information from the student, the student's parent or guardian, and the Superintendent or designee, and confirm or reverse the decision of the superintendent or designee. The Board will make a record of the proceedings.
If the Board confirms the decision of the superintendent or designee, the Board shall inform the student and the student's parent or guardian of the right to appeal to the Commissioner of Education. The student may not be returned to the regular classroom pending the appeal.
EXPULSION
Students with disabilities are subject to applicable state and federal law in addition to the Student Code of Conduct. To the extent any conflict exists, state and/or federal law will prevail.
Pursuant to state law and Board of Education policy, a student must be expelled for any of the 500 series offenses (contained in the Code of Conduct) if the student commits these offenses on school property or within 300 feet of school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property.
State and federal law require a student to be expelled from the regular classroom for a period of at least one calendar year for bringing a firearm, as defined by federal law, to school. However, the superintendent or other appropriate administrator may modify the length of expulsion on a case-by-case basis and/or the district may provide educational services to the expelled student in a disciplinary alternative education program.
When a student under the age of ten engages in behavior that is an expellable behavior, the student will not be expelled, but will be placed in a disciplinary alternative education program.
The board delegates to the campus principal, assistant superintendent, and/or the superintendent the authority to expel students.
61 The principal or appropriate administrator will schedule a conference within a reasonable time with the student’s parents/guardian, the teacher, and the student. The student’s parent or guardian will be invited in writing to attend the conference.
Until a conference can be held, the principal may place the student in:
. Another appropriate classroom . In-school suspension . Out-of-school suspension
A student facing expulsion will be given appropriate due process as required by the federal constitution. The student is entitled to:
1. Conference within seven (7) school days of the date that the “expellable” offense occurred, unless an extension is mutually agreed upon or unless there are extenuating circumstances; 2. Prior notice of the charges and the proposed sanctions so as to afford a reasonable opportunity for preparation
3. A full and fair conference before a competent forum;
4. An adult representation, which is not a district employee, or legal counsel who can provide guidance to the student;
5. An opportunity to testify and to present evidence and witnesses in the student’s defense;
6. An opportunity to examine evidence presented and to question the district’s witnesses; and
7. Courtroom rules of evidence will not apply, but all evidence and testimony must be relevant to the proceeding. A record of the hearing will be made by tape recorder.
Not later than the second business day after the conference, the board’s designee will deliver to the juvenile court a copy of the order expelling the student and information required by Section 52.04 of the Family Code. A student may appeal the decision to the Board in accordance with policy.
The duration of a student’s expulsion is determined by the superintendent.
Expelled students are prohibited from being on school grounds or attending school-sponsored or school-related activities during the period of expulsion.
No District academic credit will be earned for work missed during the period of expulsion, unless the student is enrolled in a JJAEP program or other District-approved program.
The District will not accept any student expelled from another district during the period of the expulsion order.
DISCIPLINE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS UNDER THE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES UNDER SECTION 504
A student with a disability under Section 504 [see FB (LEGAL)] shall not be removed from school for more than ten consecutive school days unless the District first determines that the misbehavior is not a manifestation of the student's disability. That determination may be made by the same group of people who make placement decisions [see FB (LOCAL)]. The group must have available to it evaluation data that is recent enough to afford an understanding of the student's current behavior. At a minimum, the group shall include persons knowledgeable about the student and the meaning of the evaluation data. If it is determined that the misconduct is not caused by the student's disability, the student may be excluded from school in the same manner as similarly situated non-disabled students. If it is determined that the misconduct is caused by the student's disability, the District must determine whether the student's current educational placement is appropriate. [34 CFR 104.35; 17 IDELR 609; 16 IDELR 491]
The provisions below apply only to students eligible for special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS
62
The placement of a student with disability who receives special education services may be made only by a duly constituted admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) committee. A student with a disability who receives special education services may not be placed in an alternative education program solely for educational purposes if the student does not meet the statutory criteria for alternative placement. (Education Code 37.004)
CHANGE IN PLACEMENT
The District shall conduct a manifestation determination, as described below at MANIFESTATION DETERMINATION, if a disciplinary action contemplated for a student with a disability involves a change in placement:
(1) For not more than ten days [see SHORT-TERM]; (2) For not more than 45 days, if the student commits an offense involving weapons or drugs [see WEAPONS/DRUG OFFENSES]; (3) When ordered by a hearing officer [see ORDERED BY HEARING OFFICER]; (4) For more than ten days.
If the District is taking action described in #1 or #2 above, it shall follow the procedure described in BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION Plan, below. [20 U.S.C. & 14 15(k) (1), (k) (4)]
SHORT-TERM
School personnel may order a change in placement of a student with a disability to an appropriate interim alternative educational setting, another setting, or suspension, for not more than ten school days (to the extent such alternatives would be applied to students without disabilities).
WEAPONS/DRUG OFFENSES
School personnel may order a change in the placement of a student with a disability to an appropriate interim alternative educational setting, which must be determined by the ARD committee, for the same amount of time a student without a disability would be subject to discipline, but for not more than 45 days if:
(1) The student carries a weapon to school or to a school function under the jurisdiction of a state or a school district; or (2) The student knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school or a school function under the jurisdiction of a state or a school district. 20U.S.C. & 1415(k)(1)(ii)
BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION PLAN
If the District did not conduct a functional behavioral assessment and implement a behavioral intervention plan for the student before the behavior that resulted in the suspension described above at SHORT-TERM CHANGE IN PLACEMENT or at WEAPONS/DRUG OFFENSES, the District shall convene an ARD committee meeting to develop an assessment plan to address that behavior. This meeting shall be convened either before or not later than ten days after taking the disciplinary action that changes the student's placement.
If the student already has a behavior intervention plan, the ARD committee shall review the plan and modify it, as necessary, to address the behavior. 20 U.S.C. & 1415(k) (l) (B)
ORDERED BY HEARING OFFICER
A hearing officer may order a change in placement of a student with a disability to an appropriate interim alternative educational setting for not more than 45 days.
CRITERIA FOR THE ALTERNATIVE SETTING
Any interim alternative educational setting in which a student with a disability is placed shall be determined by the ARD committee. The setting shall be selected so as to enable the child to continue to participate in the general curriculum, although in another setting, and to continue to receive those services and modifications, including those described in the student's current IEP, that enable the student to meet the goals set out in that IEP. The setting shall also include services and modifications designed to address the behavior that caused the student to be placed in the alternative setting so that the behavior does not recur. 20 U.S.C. & 1415(k) (3)
63
MANIFESTATION DETERMINATION
If a disciplinary action involving a change of placement for any amount of time is contemplated for a student with a disability who has engaged in other behavior that violated any rule or code of conduct of the District that applies to all children, the District shall:
(1) Not later than the date on which the decision to take the disciplinary action is made, notify the student's parents of the decision and of all procedural safeguards [see EHBAD(LEGAL)]; and
(2) Immediately, if possible, but in no case later than ten school days after the date on which the decision to take that action is made, conduct a review of the relationship between the student's disability and the behavior subject to disciplinary action.
REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS
The review shall be conducted by the ARD committee and other qualified personnel. In carrying out the review, the ARD committee may determine that the student's behavior was not a manifestation of the student disability only if the ARD committee:
. First considers, in terms of the behavior subject to disciplinary action, all relevant information including:
(1) Evaluation and diagnostic results, including such results or other relevant information supplied by the parents;
(2) Observations of the student; and (3) The student's IEP and placement; and
. Then determines that:
(1) In relationship to the behavior subject to disciplinary action, the student's IEP and placement were appropriate, and the special education services, supplementary aids and services, and behavior intervention strategies were provided consistent with the student's IEP and placement; (2) The student’s disability did not impair the ability of the student to understand the impact and consequences of the behavior subject to the disciplinary action; and (3) The student's disability did not impair the ability of the student to control the behavior subject to disciplinary action. 20 U.S.C. & 1415 Sec. 615 (k)(4)
CONDUCT NOT RELATED TO DISABILITY
If the result of the manifestation determination (described above) is that the student's behavior was not a manifestation of the student's disability, the disciplinary procedures applicable to students without disabilities may be applied to the student in the same manner in which they would be applied to students without disabilities. 20 U.S.C. & 1415(k) (5) (A)
CONTINUED SERVICES
If the student is suspended or expelled, the District shall continue to provide the student a free appropriate public education. 20 U.S.C. & 1412(a) (1)
If the District initiates disciplinary procedures applicable to all students, the District shall ensure that the student's special education and disciplinary records are transmitted for consideration by the person or persons making the final determination regarding the disciplinary action.
PARENTAL APPEAL
A parent may request a hearing if the parent disagrees with: (1) The determination that student's behavior was not a manifestation of the student's disability; or (2) Any decision regarding placement.
The District shall arrange for an expedited hearing in such a case.
CHALLENGE TO MANIFESTATION DETERMINATION
64
In reviewing a decision with respect to manifestation determination, the hearing officer shall determine whether the District has demonstrated that the student's behavior was not a manifestation of the student disability consistent with the requirements described above at REQUIRED CONSIDERATIONS.
CHALLENGE TO ALTERNATIVE PLACEMENT When a parent requests a hearing to challenge a student's placement in an interim alternative educational setting, the hearing officer shall apply the standards set out above at CHANGE IN PLACEMENT ORDERED BY HEARING OFFICER.
PLACEMENT DURING APPEALS
A parent may request a hearing to challenge:
. A student's placement in an interim alternative educational setting for weapons or drugs;
. A placement that was orders by a hearing officer;
. The manifestation determination.
When such a request is made, the student shall remain in the alternative educational setting pending the decision of the hearing officer or until the time period for which the student assigned to the alternative setting has expired, whichever occurs first, unless the parent and the District agree otherwise.
PROPOSED CHANGE AFTER INTERIM PLACEMENT
If a student is placed in interim alternative educational setting for weapons or drugs or because the placement was ordered by a hearing officer, and school personnel propose to change the student's placement after expiration of the interim alternative placement, during the pendency of any proceeding to challenge the proposed placement, the student shall remain in the current placement (the student's placement prior to the interim alternative educational settling) unless the District requests an expedited hearing.
EXPEDITED HEARING
If school personnel maintain that it is dangerous for a student to be in the current placement (placement prior to removal to the interim alternative educational setting), during the pendency of the due process proceedings, the District may request an expedited hearing.
STUDENTS NOT YET IDENTIFIED
A student who has not been determined to be eligible for special education and related services and who has engaged in behavior that violated any rule or code of conduct of the District may assert any protections provided for in the Individuals and Disabilities act (IDEA) if the district had knowledge that the student was a student with a disability before the behavior that precipitated that disciplinary action occurred.
The District will be deemed to have knowledge that a student is a student with a disability if:
(1) The parent of the student has expressed concern in writing (unless the parent is illiterate or has a disability that prevents compliance with these requirements) to personnel of the appropriate educational agency that the student is in need of special education and related services; (2) The behavior or performance of the student demonstrates the need for such services; (3) The parent of the student has requested an evaluation; (4) The student's teacher, or other district personnel, has expressed concern about the behavior or performance of the student to the special education director or to other personnel.
If the District has no knowledge, prior to taking disciplinary measures, that a student has a disability, the student may be subjected to the same disciplinary measures as are applied to students without disabilities who engaged in comparable behaviors. However, if a request is made for an evaluation during the time period in which the student is subjected to disciplinary measures, the evaluation shall be conducted in an expedited manner. Pending the results of the evaluation, the student may remain in the educational placement determined by school authorities.
65
If the student is determined to be a student with a disability, taking into consideration information from the evaluation and information provided by the parents, the District shall provide special education and related services as required by federal law. 20 U.S.C. & 1415(k) (8)
LEVELS OF DISCIPLINE
. Level I Misconduct: Minor . Level II Misconduct: Serious . Level III Misconduct: Persistent Serious Misconduct, Mandatory Teacher Removal or Severe Misconduct . Level IV Misconduct: Misconduct that leads to mandatory placement within the Discipline School . Level V Misconduct: Misconduct that leads to expulsion
Level I Misconduct: Minor
Definition: Level I refers to minor acts of misconduct. Discipline for Level I offenses is most often managed by the classroom teacher. A formal Student Code of Conduct violation report is not required for Level I violations. Examples of Minor Misbehavior are:
101 Violation of written classroom guidelines, regulations, and expectations 102 Minor bus misconduct 103 Violation of written non-classroom guidelines, regulations, and expectations
Right of Appeal: Any student and/or parent may appeal the decision of the teacher to the campus principal within 72 hours of the time the parent becomes aware of the discipline. The appeal decision of the campus principal is final.
Level II Misconduct: Serious
Definition: Level II refers to a major act of misconduct that does not require immediate placement in the Discipline School or expulsion, but does require a Student Code of Conduct violation report.
Students may be suspended for any behavior listed in the Code as a general conduct violation, DAEP offense, or expellable offense.
In deciding whether to order out-of-school suspension, the district will take into consideration: 1. Self-defense (see glossary) 2. Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged in the conduct, and 3. The student’s disciplinary history.
Examples of Serious Misbehavior:
201 Persisting in Level I misconduct (Definition: The student continues to engage in violation of a written rule, regulation, or guideline after the teacher has completed the disciplinary techniques reflected in his or her plan of discipline.) 202 Failing to cooperate with the classroom teacher’s discipline options. (Definition: The student is cited for violation of a written classroom rule, regulation, or guideline and thereafter fails to complete the approved disciplinary techniques as reflected in the teacher’s plan of discipline.) 203 Gambling 204 Stealing from students, staff, or the school 205 Cutting class, including leaving campus or school-sponsored events without permission or not being in assigned location, and excessive tardies 206 Harassing, which includes using abusive, indecent, or profane language either spoken or written and/or offensive body gestures toward a student 207 Speaking, directing, or writing language that is abusive, indecent, or profane toward an adult. 208 Fighting- elementary students (In grades K-5) after a finding of fact a Student Code of Conduct violation report may be processed with a three day suspension, a citation, and the consequences of a Student Code of Conduct violation report.)
A student has the right of self-defense. The district expects a student to prevent a fight by walking away, seeking adult help, not to engage in verbal altercations or incitement, and to report that trouble is coming if possible.
209 Possessing, purchasing, using or accepting a cigarette or tobacco product. (Health & Safety Code Sec. 3.01 Ch. 161.252) 210 Violating safety rules (including bicycle and traffic)
66
211 Possessing unacceptable items (paging devices, beepers, radios, writing markers, dice, tape players, glass bottles, etc.) 212 Misusing food in the cafeteria and/or violating cafeteria rules 213 Violating required school attendance laws (TEC 25.094) 214 Attempting physical contact with another student with the implied intent to intimidate or cause harm (including throwing objects that can cause bodily injury or property damage) 215 Engaging in acts of public displays of affection with another 216 Selling or soliciting for sale unauthorized merchandise 217 Directing abusive, indecent, profane, or vulgar language toward a student. 218 Engaging in any misbehavior that gives school officials reasonable cause to believe that such conduct will substantially disrupt the school program or incite violence 219 Failing to comply with directives given by school personnel 220 Forging or writing parents or staff’s name (examples: notes, hall passes, school documents, etc.) 221 Giving false information to a staff member 222 Giving another student any type of non-prescription medication or unauthorized substance 223 Violating dress code, repeatedly (after first time). Students in violation of the dress code will be required to remain within in-school suspension until violation is corrected. Student will not be sent home without prior parental permission 224 Academic dishonesty, cheating, or plagiarism 225 Failure to properly display ID, defacing ID, wearing another student's ID, failure to wear ID while on campus, arriving on campus without a proper student ID, after receiving a written warning (AJJH and CHS students). 226 Violating any other written Code of Conduct as determined by the principal, approved by the superintendent, and communicated in writing to the students (such as being posted) 227 Damage or destruction of property that is not considered a Penal code (28.03) offense.
The options indicated each time a Student Code of Conduct violation report is sent home are equal in nature and the assistant principal should work with the parent and/or student as to which option should be used. Saturday school and evening detention hall shall be four hours for high school students and two hours for students below high school. Special mitigating circumstances may allow for discipline options other than those listed below.
Prior to disciplinary action, an administrator shall conduct a conference with the student at which:
(1) The student is advised of the misconduct; and
(2) The student is given an opportunity to explain his or her version of the incident
First Referral-Appropriate discipline action may include: . One day Saturday school; . Evening detention hall or; . One-day suspension.
Second Referral-Appropriate disciplinary action may include: . Two days of Saturday school; . Two Evening detention halls; . Two-day Suspension.
Third Referral-Appropriate disciplinary action may include: . Three days of Saturday school; . Three Evening detention halls; . Three-day suspension.
Fourth Referral-If not from the same teacher, administrator shall use appropriate discipline. In general, a student shall not be allowed to stay in any teacher’s classroom in which the teacher has written four (4) Student Code of Conduct violation reports.
Right of Appeal: Any student and/or parent may appeal the decision of the assistant principal to the campus principal. All appeals should be addressed through the Channelview Independent School District Complaint/Grievance procedures that are contained in school district policies, FNG LOCAL, and FNG LEGAL.
Level III Misconduct: Persistent Serious Misconduct, Mandatory Teacher Removal, Severe Misconduct
Definition: Level III Misconduct is defined as persistent Level II misbehavior, or a formal removal by a classroom teacher under Sec. 37.002 (b) of the TEC or after a finding of fact indicates that the student engaged in severe misconduct. Examples of severe misconduct are:
67
301 Unauthorized actions (refusal of a student who is engaging in misbehavior or does not have legitimate business to obey a reasonable order in regards to the entry, ejection from school property, or fails to give identification of name when asked (TEC 37.105) 302 Trespassing on school grounds (TEC 37.107) 303 Loitering (any student who remains on school property after being advised by the person in charge to leave) 304 Disrupting activities (TEC 37.123) 305 Disrupting classes (TEC 37.124) 306 Disrupting transportation (TEC 37.126) 307 Personal hazing (TEC 37.152) and/or organization hazing (TEC 37.153) 308 Criminal mischief (Penal Code 28.03) i.e. - vandalism and marking on property 309 Reckless damage or destruction (Penal Code 28.04) 310 Offensive gesture towards an employee [Penal Code 42.01 (2)] 311 Physical contact with an employee with the implied intent to intimidate or cause harm 312 Incitement (abusive, indecent, profane, or vulgar language which implies intent to harm) [Penal Code 42.01 (1)] 313 Gross/willful insubordination as determined by the principal (Definition: Student willfully or intentionally disregards reasonable instructions) 314 Abusive, indecent, profane, or vulgar language directed towards an employee [Penal Code 42.01(1)] 315 Possession or distribution of pornographic materials. 316 Possession or use of fireworks, stink bomb, smoke bomb, or other noxious chemical [Penal Code 42.01 (3)] 317 Burglary of district facility 318 Sending or posting messages, physical contact, or verbal or written messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another's reputation, or illegal 319 Gang-related behavior, including pledging to become a member, solicits another student to join, clothing, signs, which includes “GANKING”, etc. [Definition: Gang related term used to intimidate non-gang members; use of fist/hand in a striking motion to the body (TEC 37.121)] 320 Fighting (In grades 6-12), after a finding of fact a Student Code of Conduct violation report may be processed with a three day suspension, a citation, and placement in the discipline school. 321 Disruption of a lawful assembly 322 Disorderly conduct (Penal Code 42.01) 323 Vandalism, robbery or serious theft 324 Extortion, coercion, or blackmail 325 Possession and/or concealment of a weapon not included under expellable offenses (This includes possessing or selling "Look-alike" weapons) 326 Perjury or lying as a witness during a school investigation 327 Hacking (illegal or unauthorized entry or attempted entry into computer files or unauthorized websites) 328 Mooning or other reckless type displays [Penal Code 42.01 (12)] 329 Engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct 330 Behavior that is illegal that does not constitute an expellable offense 331 Possessing or selling look-alike drugs, drug paraphernalia, or items attempted to be passed off as drugs and contraband 332 Engaging in verbal or written exchanges (may be via Internet, sending or posting messages or verbal or written exchanges) that threaten the safety of another student, school employee, or school property 333 Possession of published or electronic material that is designed to promote or encourage illegal behaviors and could threaten school safety 334 Refusal to accept discipline management techniques assigned by the teacher or principal 335 Possession of or conspiring to possess any explosive or explosive device 336 Persisting in Level II misbehavior (Definition: A student who has been correctly placed academically is issued a 4th discipline referral by the same teacher) 337 Used, exhibited or possessed a non-illegal knife as defined by the student code of conduct and as allowed under [TEC 37.007] (Knife blade equal to or less than 5.5 inches)
The principal or designee may process a Student Code of Conduct violation report for severe misconduct. The principal or designee has authority to place students in the discipline school for any Level III offense.
Right of Appeal: Any student and/or parent may appeal the decision of the principal or designee to place the student in the Discipline School. All appeals should be addressed through the Channelview Independent School District Complaint/Grievance procedures that are contained in school district policies, FNG LOCAL, and FNG LEGAL.
The student shall be removed from the regular program until the appeal process has been completed.
Level IV Misconduct: Misconduct that leads to mandatory placement within the Discipline School.
68
Definition: Mandatory Placement in a Discipline School is defined as those offenses that require placement by state law and those offenses designated by the Board of Education as to require mandatory placement.
401 Engaging in conduct punishable as a felony on or within 300 feet of school property or while attending a school sponsored activity 402 Sells, gives, delivers to another person or possession of drugs that is not a felony (Chapter 481, Health and Safety Code or by 21 U.S.C. Section 801) or is under the influence of an illegal drug 403 Sells, gives, delivers to another person or possession of alcohol that is not a felony (Section 1.04, Alcoholic Beverage Code) or is under the influence of alcohol [TEC 37.007 (a) (3) or (b)] 404 Offense relating to abusable glue or aerosol paint (Chapter 485.031-485-035 of Health & Safety Code) 405 Offense of public lewdness or indecent exposure (Penal Code 21.07/Penal Code 21.08) 406 Retaliation against school employee [TEC 37.006(b) and 37.007(d)] 407 Off campus conduct in which the student received deferred prosecution for conduct defined as a felony offense in (Family Code 53.03) (Title 5, Penal Code), engaged in delinquent misconduct defined in (Family Code 54.03) (Title 5, Penal Code),or the superintendent has a reasonable belief that the student has engaged in a felony offense 408 Terroristic threat [TEC 37.006(a) (2)] 409 Assault against a school district employee or volunteer [Penal Code 22.01(a) (1), 22.07] 410 Assault under penal Code Section 22.01 (a) against someone other than a school district employee or volunteer 411 Disruptive behavior (TEC37.002) 412 Off campus conduct by the student if the superintendent has a reasonable belief that the student has engaged in a felony offense and continued presence of the student in the regular classroom threatens the safety of other students or teachers or will be detrimental to the educational process 413 Violation of student code of conduct not included under TEC 37.006 or 37.007 414 Emergency Placement (TEC37.019) 415 School-related gang violence - Action by three or more persons having a common identifying sign or symbol or an identifiable sign or symbol or indefinable leadership who associate in the commission of criminal activities 416 False alarm, bomb threat, bomb hoax, or any other hoax regarding verbal or written threats 417 Student is required to register as a sex offender under Chapter 62 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and is under court supervision – TEC 37.304. The offense(s) for which the student is required to register as a sex offender must have occurred on or after September 1, 2007. 418 Student is required to register as a sex offender under Chapter 62 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and is not under court supervision – TEC 37.305. The offense(s) for which the student is required to register as a sex offender must have occurred on or after September 1, 2007.
The student shall be removed from the regular program until the appeal process has been completed.
Level V Misconduct: Misconduct that leads to mandatory expulsion.
Definition: Mandatory Expulsion is removal from all education services for the remainder of the school year, unless the misconduct occurred in the last six weeks, in which case placement shall continue until the end of the following semester. Mandatory Expulsion is defined as those offenses that require expulsion by state law and those offenses designated by the Board of Education as to require mandatory expulsion. If a student under ten engages in expellable conduct, the student must be placed in a Discipline School.
501 Drug offenses when punishable as felonies [TEC 37.006 (a) 3 and 37.007(b) or 37.007(a) (3)] 502 Sells, gives, delivers to another person or possession of alcohol that is a felony [TEC 37.006(a) 4 and 37.007 (b) or 37.007(a) (3)] 503 Student commits retaliation against a school employee [TEC 37.006(b) and 37.007 (d)] 504 Uses, possesses, or exhibits a firearm [TEC 37.007(a) (1) (A) and 37.007(e)] 505 Uses, possesses, or exhibits illegal knife [TEC 37.007 (a) (1) (B)] 506 Uses, possesses, or exhibits a club [TEC 37.007(a) (1) (C)] 507 Uses, possesses, or exhibits a prohibited weapon [TEC 37.007 (a) (1) (D)] 508 Arson [TEC 37.007 (a) (2) (B)] 509 Murder, capital murder, criminal attempt to murder, or capital murder [TEC 37.007 (a) (2) (C)] 510 Indecency with a child [TEC 37.007(a) (2) (D)] 511 Aggravated kidnapping [TEC 37.007(a) (2) (E 512 Aggravated assault against an employee or volunteer [TEC 37.007 (d)] 513 Aggravated assault against of a non-employee [TEC 37.007(a) (2) (A)] 514 Sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault against an employee or volunteer [TEC 37.007(d)] 515 Sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault against a non-employee [TEC 37.007(a) (2) (A)]
69
516 Engaging in criminal mischief [TEC 37.007(f)] 517 Any Level IV Student Code of Conduct violation report after being placed in the Discipline School shall lead to expulsion [TEC 37.007 (c)]. 518 Any Level III Student Code of Conduct violation report after being placed in the Discipline School may lead to expulsion [TEC 37.007 (c)]. 519 Emergency Placement [TEC 37.019] 520 Aggravated Robbery [TEC 37.007] 521 Manslaughter [TEC 37.007 (a)(2)(G)] 522 Criminally Negligent Homicide [TEC 37.007 (a)(2)(h)] 523 Engages in Deadly Conduct [TEC 37.007(a)(2)(f) Right of Appeal: Any student and/or parent may appeal the mandatory decision of the principal or designee to expel a student. All appeals should be addressed through the Channelview Independent School District Complaint/Grievance procedures that are contained in school district policies, FNG LOCAL, and FNG LEGAL. 524 Continuous sexual abuse of young child or children under Penal Code 21.02, occurring on school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property – TEC 37.007 (a)(2)(l).
The student shall be removed from the regular program until the appeal process has been completed. .
70
APPENDIX
71
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM
Please read both sides, sign where appropriate, and return to appropriate school personnel within five days.
My child and I have received a copy of the Channelview Independent School District Student / Parent Handbook and the Student Code of Conduct for 2010-2011. I understand that the Handbook and Code of Conduct contain 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.
PRINT NAME OF STUDENT: Last ______First ______Middle______
CAMPUS: ______GRADE LEVEL: ______
SIGNATURE OF STUDENT: ______DATE:______
PRINT NAME OF PARENT: ______
SIGNATURE OF PARENT: ______DATE: ______
PLEASE REVIEW THE INFORMATION BELOW AND COMPLETE AS APPROPRIATE:
CONSENT TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT - The Channelview Independent School District has my consent to secure and authorize emergency medical treatment or hospitalization in the event of an accident or illness involving my child while under its supervision that, in the judgment of the District, is necessary and in the best interest of my child. This authorization is granted only after a reasonable effort has been made to contact me. I understand that this written consent is given in advance of any specific diagnosis or hospital care. I agree to assume and pay for the fees for the emergency medical treatment as authorized in this statement. I ALSO AGREE TO HOLD HARMLESS THE CHANNELVIEW ISD (INCLUDING ITS BOARD OF TRUSTEES, AGENTS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, CONTRACTORS, ATTORNEYS, AND OTHERS REPRESENTING THE DISTRICT) AND THE EMERGENCY HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS FROM ANY CLAIMS OR CAUSES OF ACTION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY RELATED TO THE PROVIDING OF ANY IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT. Please check ONE of the two options below regarding your consent to emergency medical treatment for your child: ____ I consent to my child receiving emergency medical treatment as outlined above. ____ I do not consent to my child receiving emergency medical treatment as outlined above.
SIGNATURE OF PARENT: ______DATE: ______
RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION - Regarding student records, I understand that the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state law require that "directory information" on my child be released by the District to anyone who requests it unless I object in writing to the release of any or all of this information. I also understand that to be in compliance with the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, the District will release to military recruiters and institutions of higher education, upon request, the first and last name, home or physical address, including street name and city, telephone number, or Social Security identification number of my child, unless I direct the District not to release this information without prior written consent, as indicated below. This objection must be filed with the principal within ten days of my child's first day of instruction for this school year. • By checking the statement below, you will prevent the school from releasing this information on your child to those who request such information. By checking the statement below, you will not prevent your child from being honored for his/her hard work and achievements at school. We will continue to include your child's name in homeroom lists for parent-teacher group use only, honor rolls, lists of awards/honors recipients and contest winners, parent-teacher group newsletters, programs for school performances, and extracurricular events. Your child's name and/or photo may appear in the school yearbook, school and district publications, the newspaper, and television features.
72
INTERNET ACCESS RELEASE - I have read the district’s electronic communications system policy and administrative regulations (see Student Handbook) and agree to abide by their provisions. I understand that violation of these provisions may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct or suspension of computer access. Internet access will be provided to all students, unless the parent objects. Information accessible via the Internet may contain material that is illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, or controversial. Though safeguards are in place, a risk exists that students may access material that may not be of educational value in the school setting. Channelview ISD firmly believes that the valuable information and interaction available on the Internet outweigh the negatives that are not consistent with the educational goals of the district. By checking the statement below, you will prevent the school from providing your child access to the Internet.
PHOTO/VIDEO/AUDIO RELEASE - The Channelview Independent School District has my consent to make (or authorize the making of) a photograph or videotape of my child or his/her work for any lawful purpose without further notice to me (§ 26.009 of the Texas Education Code). I also give the District my consent to record (or authorize the recording of) my child’s voice without further notice to me.
I understand that such photographs, videotapes, or audiotapes of my child, which may not be accompanied by his/her name, could appear on the District’s Website on the Internet with or without my knowledge. I further understand that my child’s work, which may be accompanied by his/her name, may be electronically displayed and produced.
I ALSO AGREE TO HOLD HARMLESS THE CHANNELVIEW ISD (INCLUDING ITS BOARD OF TRUSTEES, AGENTS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, CONTRACTORS, ATTORNEYS, AND OTHERS REPRESENTING THE DISTRICT) FROM ANY CLAIMS OR CAUSES OF ACTION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY RELATED TO THE PHOTOGRAPHING, VIDEOTAPING, AUDIO TAPING, OR ON-LINE PUBLISHING OF MY CHILD AND/OR WORK PRODUCED BY HIM/HER.
I do hereby waive all residual rights of claims, monetary or otherwise, that might arise as a result of any lawful use of the above-described material and do hereby grant permission for the use of such material for any lawful purpose.
By checking the statement below, you will prevent the release of any photographs, videotapes, or audiotapes of your child or his/her work.
As the parent or guardian, please check below if you object to any of the following: ____ I object to the release of directory information on my student. ____ I object to my child accessing Internet. ____ I object to the release of any photographs, videotapes, or audiotapes of my child or his/her work. _____ I have read the information in this handbook on the use of corporal punishment in CISD. ____ I object to the use of corporal punishment as a disciplinary consequence for my child.
ONLY SIGN BELOW IF YOU HAVE CHECKED ANY OF THE OBJECTIONS LISTED ABOVE
SIGNATURE OF PARENTAL OBJECTION: ______DATE: ______
73 SCHOOL-STUDENT COMPACT All Campuses Pre-Kindergarten-Grade 12
The mission of the Channelview Independent School District is to provide an educational program which will develop and enhance our students’ intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth in order to encourage them to become creative, responsible, patriotic, contributing members of society. Inherent within this mission is the belief that all students can learn and that school can make a difference in the lives of the students.
To accomplish this, parents and teachers need to work together. We ask that you promise to do this by completing and signing the part of the agreement that belongs to you. Signing and returning this compact is encouraged, but it is your option.
PARENT/SIGNIFICANT ADULT CHECKLIST INCLUDES:
I will do my personal best to: □ Attend at least one (1) parent/teacher conference, if needed or requested, for each of my children. □ Supervise the completion of student homework. □ Seeing that my child is punctual and attends school regularly. □ Provide a caring environment, including adequate food, and rest, so my child is ready to learn.
I will do my best to (Choose at least three (3) of the following): □ Supervise my child's television viewing. □ Become actively involved in the decision making process as appropriate. □ Attend at least two (2) school functions/assemblies. (Examples are: discipline assemblies, Black History program, Hispanic programs, music programs, Awards Day, and Contests.) □ Volunteer as a classroom helper. (We suggest 30 minutes per semester.) □ Help with other activities. (Examples are: Health screening, Book Fair, and other special events.) □ Eat lunch at school with my child at least two (2) times per year. □ Be a Spanish or foreign language translator. □ Visit the school and meet the principal, teachers, and staff.
Write your own suggestion. (What special skill or activity can you share?)
______
______
Print name of student: ______
Campus: ______Grade: ______
Print Name of Teacher______
Parent/guardian signature: ______Date: ______
TEACHER CHECKLIST INCLUDES:
I will do my personal best to: □ Provide you with frequent reports of your child's progress. □ Schedule parent/teacher conferences to accommodate parent's schedule. □ Provide a safe and caring learning environment where your child will begin to be responsible for his/her own behavior and learning. □ Take into account individual strengths in children. □ Help your child follow the school and classroom rules. □ Attend school functions. □ Help with how you can help your child at home. □ Teach in all areas of intelligence.
Teacher's Signature ______Date ______
74
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS POLICY AND ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS
The Superintendent or designee will oversee the District's electronic communications system.
The District will provide training in proper use of the system and will provide all users with copies of acceptable use guidelines. All training in the use of the District's system will emphasize the ethical and safe use of this resource.
CONSENT REQUIREMENTS
Copyrighted software or data may not be placed on any system connected to the District's system without permission from the holder of the copyright. Only the copyright owner, or an individual the owner specifically authorizes, may upload copyrighted material to the system.
No original work created by any District student or employee will be posted on a Web page under the District's control unless the District has received written consent from the student (and the student's parent if the student is a minor) or employee who created the work.
No personally identifiable information about a District student will be posted on a Web page under the District's control unless the District has received written consent from the student's parent. An exception may be made for "directory information" as allowed by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and District policy.
FILTERING
The Superintendent will appoint a committee (or designee), to be chaired by the technology coordinator, to select, implement, and maintain appropriate technology for filtering Internet sites containing material considered inappropriate or harmful to minors. All Internet access will be filtered for minors and adults on computers with Internet access provided by the school.
The categories of material considered inappropriate and to which access will be blocked will include, but not be limited to: nudity/pornography; images or descriptions of sexual acts; promotion of violence, illegal use of weapons, drug use, discrimination, or participation in hate groups; instructions for performing criminal acts (e.g., bomb making); and on-line gambling.
REQUESTS TO DISABLE FILTER
The committee (or designee) will consider requests from users who wish to use a blocked site for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. The committee (or designee) will make recommendation to the Superintendent regarding approval or disapproval of disabling the filter for the requested use.
SYSTEM ACCESS Access to the District's electronic communications system will be governed as follows:
1. Students will be granted access to the District's system as appropriate. No student will be assigned an individual account or password. 2. As appropriate and with the written approval of the immediate supervisor, District employees will be granted access to the District's system. 3. A teacher may apply for a class account and in doing so will be ultimately responsible for use of the account. 4. The District will require that all passwords be changed as needed. 5. Any system user identified as a security risk or as having violated District and/or campus computer use guidelines may be denied access to the District's system. 6. All users will be required to sign a user agreement annually for issuance or renewal of an account.
TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
The technology coordinator for the District's electronic communications system (or campus designee) will:
1. Be responsible for disseminating and enforcing applicable District policies and acceptable use guidelines for the District's system. 2. Ensure that all users of the District's system complete and sign annually an agreement to abide by District policies and administrative regulations regarding such use. All such agreements will be maintained on file in the principal's or supervisor's office.
75 3. Ensure that employees supervising students who use the District's system provide training emphasizing the appropriate use of this resource. 4. Ensure that all software loaded on computers in the District is consistent with District standards and is properly licensed. 5. Be authorized to monitor or examine all system activities, including electronic mail transmissions, as deemed appropriate to ensure student safety on-line and proper use of the system. 6. Be authorized to disable a filtering device on the system for bona fide research or another lawful purpose, with approval from the Superintendent. 7. Be authorized to establish a retention schedule for messages on any electronic bulletin board and to remove messages posted locally that are deemed to be inappropriate. 8. Set limits for data storage within the District's system, as needed.
INDIVIDUAL USER RESPONSIBILITIES
The following standards will apply to all users of the District's electronic information/communications systems:
. ON-LINE CONDUCT
1. The individual in whose name a system account is issued will be responsible at all times for its proper use. 2. The system may not be used for illegal purposes, in support of illegal activities, or for any other activity prohibited by District policy or guidelines. 3. System users may not disable, or attempt to disable, a filtering device on the District's electronic communications system. 4. Communications may not be encrypted so as to avoid security review by system administrators. 5. System users may not use another person's system account without written permission from the campus administrator or District coordinator, as appropriate. 6. Students may not distribute personal information about themselves or others by means of the electronic communications system; this includes, but is not limited to, personal addresses and telephone numbers. 7. Students should never make appointments to meet people whom they meet on-line and should report to a teacher or administrator if they receive any request for such a meeting. 8. System users must purge electronic mail in accordance with established retention guidelines. 9. System users may not redistribute copyrighted programs or data except with the written permission of the copyright holder or designee. Such permission must be specified in the document or must be obtained directly from the copyright holder or designee in accordance with applicable copyright laws, District policy, and administrative regulations. 10. System users should avoid actions that are likely to increase the risk of introducing viruses to the system, such as opening e-mail messages from unknown senders and loading data from unprotected computers. 11. System users may not send or post messages that are abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another's reputation, or illegal. 12. System users may not purposefully access materials that are abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another's reputation, or illegal. 13. System users should be mindful that use of school-related electronic mail addresses might cause some recipients or other readers of that mail to assume they represent the District or school, whether or not that was the user's intention. 14. System users may not waste District resources related to the electronic communications system. 15. System users may not gain unauthorized access to resources or information.
VANDALISM PROHIBITED
Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy District equipment or data or the data of another user of the District's system or of any of the agencies or other networks that are connected to the Internet is prohibited. Deliberate attempts to degrade or disrupt system performance are violations of District policy and administrative regulations and may constitute criminal activity under applicable state and federal laws. Such prohibited activity includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creating of computer viruses.
Vandalism as defined above will result in the cancellation of system use privileges and will require restitution for costs associated with system restoration, as well as other appropriate consequences. [See DH, FN series, FO series, and the Student Code of Conduct]
FORGERY PROHIBITED
Forgery or attempted forgery of electronic mail messages is prohibited. Attempts to read, delete, copy, or modify the electronic mail of other system users, deliberate interference with the ability of other system users to send/receive electronic mail, or the use of another person's user ID and/or password is prohibited.
76 INFORMATION CONTENT / THIRD-PARTY SUPPLIED INFORMATION
System users and parents of students with access to the District's system should be aware that, despite the District's use of technology protection measures as required by law, use of the system may provide access to other electronic communications systems in the global electronic network that may contain inaccurate and/or objectionable material.
A student who gains access to such material is expected to discontinue the access as quickly as possible and to report the incident to the supervising teacher.
A student knowingly bringing prohibited materials into the school's electronic environment will be subject to suspension of access and/or revocation of privileges on the District's system and will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
An employee knowingly bringing prohibited materials into the school's electronic environment will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with District policies. [See DH]
PARTICIPATION IN CHAT ROOMS (AND NEWSGROUPS)
No participation in any chat room (or newsgroup) accessed on the Internet is permissible for students or employees.
DISTRICT WEB SITE
The District will maintain a District Web site for the purpose of informing employees, students, parents, and members of the community of District programs, policies, and practices. Requests for publication of information on the District Web site must be directed to the designated Webmaster. The technology coordinator (and the District Webmaster) will establish guidelines for the development and format of Web pages controlled by the District.
No personally identifiable information regarding a student will be published on a Web site controlled by the District without written permission from the student's parent.
No commercial advertising will be permitted on a Web site controlled by the District.
SCHOOL OR CLASS WEB PAGES
Schools or classes may publish and link to the District's site Web pages that present information about the school or class activities, subject to approval from the Webmaster. The campus principal will designate the staff member responsible for managing the campus's Web page under the supervision of the District's Webmaster. Teachers will be responsible for compliance with District rules in maintaining their class Web pages. Any links from a school or class Web page to sites outside the District's computer system must receive approval from the District Webmaster.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ORGANIZATION WEB PAGES
With the approval of the District Webmaster, extracurricular organizations may establish Web pages linked to a campus or District Web site; however, all material presented on the Web page must relate specifically to organization activities and include only student-produced material. The sponsor of the organization will be responsible for compliance with District rules for maintaining the Web page. Web pages of extracurricular organizations must include the following notice: "This is a student extracurricular organization Web page. Opinions expressed on this page shall not be attributed to the District." Any links from the Web page of an extracurricular organization to sites outside the District's computer system must receive approval from the District Webmaster.
PERSONAL WEB PAGES
District employees, Trustees, and members of the public will not be permitted to publish personal Web pages using District resources.
NETWORK ETIQUETTE
System users are expected to observe the following network etiquette: . Be polite; messages typed in capital letters are the computer equivalent of shouting and are considered rude. . Use appropriate language; swearing, vulgarity, ethnic or racial slurs, and any other inflammatory language are prohibited. . Pretending to be someone else when sending/receiving messages is considered inappropriate. . Transmitting obscene messages or pictures is prohibited.
77 . Be considerate when sending attachments with e-mail by considering whether a file may be too large to be accommodated by the recipient's system or may be in a format unreadable by the recipient. . Using the network in such a way that would disrupt the use of the network by other users is prohibited.
TERMINATION / REVOCATION OF SYSTEM USER ACCOUNT
Termination of an employee's or a student's access for violation of District policies or regulations will be effective on the date the principal or District coordinator receives notice of student withdrawal or of revocation of system privileges, or on a future date if so specified in the notice.
DISCLAIMER
The District's system is provided on an "as is, as available" basis. The District does not make any warranties, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose with respect to any services provided by the system and any information or software contained therein. The District does not warrant that the functions or services performed by, or that the information or software contained on the system will meet the system user's requirements, or that the system will be uninterrupted or error free, or that defects will be corrected.
Opinions, advice, services, and all other information expressed by system users, information providers, service providers, or other third-party individuals in the system are those of the providers and not the District.
The District will cooperate fully with local, state, or federal officials in any investigation concerning or relating to misuse of the District's electronic communications system.
78 Glossary
The glossary provides legal definitions and locally established definitions and is intended to assist in understand terms related to the Student Code of Conduct.
Abuse is improper or excessive use.
Armor-piercing ammunition is handgun ammunition used in pistols and revolvers and designed primarily for the purpose of penetrating metal or body armor.
Arson is:
1. A crime that involves starting a fire or causing an explosion with intent to destroy or damage:
a. Any vegetation, fence, or structure on open-space land; or b. Any building, habitation, or vehicle: 1. Knowing that it is within the limits of an incorporated city or town, 2. Knowing that it is insured against damage or destruction, 3. Knowing that it is subject to a mortgage or other security interest, 4. Knowing that it is located on property belonging to another, 5. Knowing that it has located within it property belonging to another, or 6. When the person starting the fire is reckless about whether the burning or explosion will endanger the life of some individual or the safety of the property of another.
2.A crime that involves recklessly starting a fire or causing an explosion while manufacturing or attempting to manufacture a controlled substance and the fire or explosion damages any building, habitation, or vehicle; or
3. A crime that involves intentionally starting a fire or causing an explosion and in so doing: a. Recklessly damages or destroys a building belonging to another, or b. Recklessly causes another person to suffer bodily injury or death.
Assault is defined in part by Texas Penal Code 22.01(a)(1) as intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another.
Bullying is written or oral expression or physical conduct that a school district’s board of trustees or the board’s designee determines:
1. To have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student’s property; or
2. To be sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive to create an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student.
Chemical dispensing device is a device designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of causing an adverse psychological or physiological effect on a human being. A small chemical dispenser sold commercially for personal protection is not in this category.
Club is an instrument specially designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death. A blackjack, mace, and tomahawk are in the same category.
Criminal street gang is three or more persons having a common identifying sign or symbol or an identifiable leadership who continuously or regularly associate in the commission of criminal activities.
Dating violence is the intentional use of physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse by a person to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control another person with whom the student has or has had a dating relationship, as defined by Section 71.0021 of the Family Code.
Deadly conduct occurs when a person recklessly engages in conduct that places another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury, such as knowing discharging a firearm in the direction of an individual, habitation, building, or vehicle.
79 Deferred adjudication is an alternative to seeking a conviction in court that may be offered to a juvenile for delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision.
Deferred prosecution may be offered to a juvenile as an alternative to seeking a conviction in court for delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision.
Delinquent conduct is conduct that violates either state or federal law and is punishable by imprisonment or confinement in jail. It includes conduct that violates certain juvenile court orders, including probation orders, but does not include violations of traffic laws.
Discretionary means that something is left to or regulated by a local decision maker.
Explosive weapon is any explosive or incendiary bomb, grenade, rocket, or mine and its delivery mechanism that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury, death, or substantial property damage, or for the principal purpose of causing such a loud report as to cause undue public alarm or terror.
False Alarm or Report occurs when a person knowingly initiates, communicates, or circulates a report of a present, past, or future bombing, fire, offense, or other emergency that he or she knows is false or baseless and that would ordinarily:
1. Cause action by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies; 2. Place a person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; or 3. Prevent or interrupt the occupation of a building, room, or place of assembly.
Firearm silencer means any device designed, made, or adapted to muffle the report of a firearm.
Graffiti are markings with paint, an indelible pen or marker, or an etching or engraving device on tangible property without the effective consent of the owner. The markings may include inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings.
Harassment is: 1.Conduct that meets the definition established in district policies DIA (LOCAL) and FFH (LOCAL); or 2. Conduct that threatens to cause harm or bodily injury to another student, is sexually intimidating, causes physical damage to the property of another student, subjects another student to physical confinement or restraint, or maliciously and substantially harms another student’s physical or emotional health or safety.
Hazing is an intentional or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or acting with others, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization.
Hit list is a list of people targeted to be harmed, using a firearm, a knife, or any other object to be used with intent to cause bodily harm.
Knuckles are any instrument consisting of finger rings or guards made of hard substance and designed or adapted for inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with a fist enclosed in the knuckles.
Machine guns is any firearm that is capable of shooting more than two shots automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.
Mandatory means that something is obligatory or required because of an authority.
Paraphernalia are devices that can be used for inhaling, ingesting, injecting, or otherwise introducing a controlled substance into a human body.
Persistent misbehavior is two or more violations of the Code in general or repeated occurrences of the same violation.
Possession means to have an item on one’s person or in one’s personal property, including but not limited to clothing, purse, or backpack; a private vehicle used for transportation to or from school or school-related activities, including but not limited to an automobile, truck, motorcycle, or bicycle; or any other school property used by the student, including but not limited to a locker or desk.
Public school fraternity, sorority, secret society, or gang means an organization composed wholly or in part of students that seeks to perpetuate itself by taking additional members from the student enrolled in school based on a decision of its membership rather than on the free choice of a qualified student. Educational organizations listed in Section 37.121(d) of the Education Code are excepted from this definition.
80
Reasonable belief is a determination made by the superintendent or designee using all available information, including the information furnished under Article 15.27 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Self-defense is the use of force against another to the degree a person reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to protect himself or herself.
Serious offenses include but are not limited to: . Murder . Vandalism . Robbery or theft . Extortion, coercion, or blackmail . Actions or demonstrations that substantially disrupt or materially interfere with school activities . Hazing . Insubordination . Profanity, vulgar language, or obscene gestures . Fighting, committing physical abuse, or threatening physical abuse . Possession or distribution of pornographic materials . Leaving school grounds without permission . Sexual harassment of a student or district employee . Possession of or conspiracy to possess any explosive or explosive device . Falsification of records, passes, or other school- related documents . Refusal to accept discipline assigned by the teacher or principal
Short-barrel firearm is a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or a shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, or any weapon made from a rifle or shotgun that, as altered, has an overall length of less than 26 inches.
Switchblade is any knife with a blade that folds, close, or retracts into the handle or sheath and that opens automatically by pressing button or by force of gravity or centrifugal force. The term does not include a knife that has a spring, detent, or other mechanism designed to create a bias toward closure and that requires exertion applied to the blade by hand, wrist, or arm to overcome the bias toward closure and open the knife.
Terroristic threat is a threat of violence to any person or property with intent to:
1. Cause a reaction of any type by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies;
2. Place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury;
3. Prevent or interrupt the occupation or use of a building; room, place of assemble or place to which the public has success; place of employment or occupation; aircraft, automobile, or other form of conveyance; or other public place;
4. Cause impairment or interruption of public communications, public transportation, public water, gas, or power supple or other public service;
5. Place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury; or
6. Influence the conduct or activities of a branch or agency of the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state (including the district).
Title 5 offenses are those that involve injury to a person and include murder; kidnapping; assault; aggravated assault; sexual assault; aggravated sexual assault; unlawful restraint; indecency with a child; injury to a child, an elderly person, or a disabled person; abandoning or endangering a child; deadly conduct; terroristic threat; aiding a person to commit suicide; and tampering with a consumer product. [See FOC (EXHIBIT)]
Under the influence means lacking the normal use of mental or physical faculties. Impairment of a person’s physical or mental faculties may be evidenced be a pattern of abnormal or erratic behavior, the presence of physical symptoms of drug or alcohol use, or by admission. A student “under the influence” need not be legally intoxicated to trigger disciplinary action.
Zip gun is a device or combination of devices, not originally a firearm, but adapted to expel a projectile through a smooth-bore or rifled-bore barrel by using the energy generated by an explosive or burning substance.
81
82
83