STUDENT HANDBOOK
652 N. Matthews Road PO Drawer 1569 Lake City, SC 29560 (843) 374-5119 Main Line (843) 374-3138 Fax Web Site: www.lchs.florence3.k12.sc.us
Lake City Early College High School Mission, Vision, and Beliefs
The mission of Lake City High School is to graduate students who are equipped with the tools necessary to achieve success.
Our vision is to create a school culture that exhibits: High expectations for all students A relevant, rigorous and an engaging curriculum Positive relationships between all stakeholders A safe, student-centered learning environment We believe that all students, staff and stakeholders should: Be dedicated to the schools mission, vision and beliefs Show respect for themselves, others and the community Never make excuses Be tolerant of others Always have a positive attitude Strive for excellence
FLORENCE SCHOOL DISTRICT THREE MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Florence School District Three: Ensuring Our Students are College and/or Career Ready It is the policy of Florence County School District 3 not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its educational programs or employment policies as required by Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Equal Pay Act of 1973, Title IX (1972 Educational Amendments), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act.
This handbook belongs to:
Name ______
This handbook must be kept with the student during the school day. The HALL PASS is included in the back of this book. No student shall be in the hall, except during class changes and lunch, without a hall pass issued by a teacher/administrator. Lost handbooks must be replaced, at the expense of the student ($5.00). Students will also sign in and out of each class in addition to using the agenda.
ALMA MATER To faithful friends we've learned to love, To Panthers brave and bold. We proudly hold our banners high, Lake City's blue, white and gold. When years have passed and high school days become but memories, Though far or near, we'll all hold dear Thy name, thy victories.
School Colors: Blue, White, and Gold School Mascot: Panther
WHERE TO GO FOR INFORMATION Announcements (morning) Main Office Announcements (afternoon) Main Office APEX Ed Brogdon Athletics Matt Apicella Attendance Kathy McKenzie CATE Leon Burgess Change of Address/Phone Number Shelia Elmore or Kathy McKenzie College Information/Dual Enrollment/Scholarships School Counselors Discipline Assistant Principals Fees/Debt Collection Main Office - Bookkeeper Food Services Cafeteria Health Issues Health Connections Building Homebound Information Kathy McKenzie Insurance or DSS Forms Main Office Lost & Found Main Office Media Materials/Services Suzanne Rybak Parking Decals Main Office Personal Issues School Counselors SC DMV Forms Main Office Schedules School Counselors Student Activities Tonia Wilson Student/Staff ID’s Tonia Wilson Transferring/Withdrawing Main Office Transportation/Bus Issues Transportation Office Transcripts/Credits School Counselors Yearbook Tonia Wilson
Student Handbook/Hall Pass This handbook must be kept with the student during the school day. The HALL PASS is included in the back of this book. No student shall be in the hall, except during class changes and lunch, without a hall pass issued by a teacher/administrator. Lost handbooks must be replaced, at the expense of the student ($5.00). Students will also sign in and out of each class in addition to using the agenda.
STUDENT ID CARDS Lake City High School Identification Cards must be worn by all students. The student photograph and information must be visible and worn at chest level. Students must wear their ID card at all times during the school day. Students that do not have their ID’s will not be allowed to enter classes, enter the Media Center, or purchase items in the cafeteria. Lost ID’s must be replaced at the expense of the student. A student can purchase a new ID for $5.00. A temporary ID can be purchased at the Main Office for $1.00. This must be done during first period. On the fifth temporary ID a new ID will be made and the student will be charged $5.00.
HIGH SCHOOLS THAT WORK Lake City Early College High School is a member of the "High Schools That Work" (HSTW) program. This program is a national effort to combine challenging academic courses and modern occupational studies to raise the achievement of career-bound high school students. Two major goals of the program are: (1) to increase the mathematics, science, and communication achievement and the application of learning for career-bound high school student, and (2) to integrate the essential content of traditional college preparatory studies-math, science and language arts-creating conditions that support school leaders, teachers and counselors in carrying out certain key practices.
Ten Key Practices: 1. High Expectations - Motivate more students to meet higher standards by integrating high expectations into classroom practices and providing frequent feedback. 2. Program of Study - Require each student to complete an upgraded academic core and a concentration. 3. Academic Studies - Teach more students the essential concepts of the college-preparatory curriculum by encouraging them to apply academic content and skills to real-world problems and projects. 4. Career/technical studies - Provide more students access to intellectually challenging career/technical studies in high-demand fields that emphasize the higher-level academic and problem-solving skills needed in the workplace and in further education. 5. Work-Based Learning - Enable students and their parents to choose from programs that integrate challenging high school studies and work-based learning and are planned by educators, employers and students. 6. Teachers Working Together - Provide cross-disciplinary teams of teachers time and support to work together to help students succeed in challenging academic and career/technical studies. 7. Students Actively Engaged - Engage students in academic and career/technical classrooms in rigorous and challenging proficient-level assignments using research-based instructional strategies and technology. 8. Guidance- Involve students and their parents in a guidance and advisement system that develops positive relationships and ensures completion of an accelerated program of study with an academic or career/technical concentration. 9. Extra Help- Provide a structured system of extra help to assist students in completing accelerated programs of study with high-level academic and technical content. 10. Culture of continuous improvement: - Use data continually to improve school culture, organization, management, curriculum and instruction to advance student learning.
EOC- End of Course Exams Students enrolled in the following classes are required to take the EOC test: Algebra I, English I, Biology I and US History. These test counts 20% of the final grade in the class.
PROMOTION Students will be promoted from grade to grade by units earned as follows: *To 10th Grade - 5 units (English I and one Math unit) *To 11th Grade - 11 units (English I, II and two Math units) *To 12th Grade - 17 units (English I, II and two Math units) and be enrolled in all courses required for graduation.
SOUTH CAROLINA REQUIREMENTS FOR A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA Unit Requirements SUBJECT COLLEGE PREP *To meet the state high school diploma requirements for students English 4 Mathematics 4 in a college preparatory program, one Science 3 unit must be earned in a foreign U. S. History 1 language (most four-year U. S. Government ½ colleges/universities require at least Economics ½ two units of the same foreign Physical Education or ROTC 1 language); and for students in a Computer Literacy (BCA) 1 technology preparation program, one Other Social Studies 1 unit must be earned in career and Foreign Lang./Occupational Specialty 1* technology education. All students Electives 7 must demonstrate computer literacy.
GUIDELINES for COURSE WORK The number of units that can count toward the graduation requirement of 24 units is limited in the following ways: --Courses must be taken in sequence. -- Courses dropped after the first 10 days of school, will result in a drop with failure. --Underclassmen may not take more than one course in English or Math during a regular school year. A Senior or 4th year student may enroll in English III and English IV and/or in two math courses. --Seniors who request early dismissal are required to enroll in five academic units. Juniors who request early dismissal are required to enroll in six academic units. --A student must receive written permission from a high school guidance counselor before enrolling in summer school courses in other schools and/or dual enrollment college courses --Schedule changes- students and their parents sign up for classes the previous year and schedule changes are not made once school starts unless approved by the principal
COURSE WEIGHTS Course Weights are listed in the back of your Course Description Guide.
EARLY DISMISSAL SCHEDULE Students must be enrolled in a minimum of five (5) Carnegie units for credit. Juniors and Seniors who have completed other course requirements for graduation may request early dismissal. A student with early dismissal has 5 minutes to leave campus.
HONOR ROLL RECOMMENDATIONS Superintendent's Honor Roll (Gold Card) = All A’s Principal's Honor Roll (Silver Card) = A’s and B’s
GRADING SCALE A 90-100 B 80-89 C 70-79 D 60-69 F 0-59 To receive credit for a course, a student must obtain a numerical average of 60 or above when the two- quarter numerical averages are averaged and meet attendance requirements. An incomplete grade of “I” not resolved by the end of the following grading period shall be assigned a numerical grade. This grade will be calculated using zeros for all missed work.
TERMS DEFINED Quarter: The first quarter begins when classes convene on the first day of school and ends 45 school days later. There are four quarters in a full school year (180 days). Term: The Fall Term begins when classes convene on the first day of school and ends on the 90th day of school. The Spring Term begins on the 91st day of school and ends on the 180th day of school.
Determining Final Course Grades: 1st Semester Average = 45% 2nd Semester Average = 45% Final Exam = 10% of Final Grade End of Course Exams = 20% of Final Grade
Guidelines for Exemption of Spring Exams Students will not be able to exempt any exams. **Students are not allowed to take exams early or make up missed exams without a medical excuse.
HOMEWORK POLICY At LCECHS we believe that homework is an integral part of our total instructional program. Homework will be used regularly to reinforce the lessons of the day. Homework should be designed to enhance learning by providing the student with the opportunity to practice the day's new learning in order that mastery is obtained.
Students are expected to complete homework daily in order to satisfy the requirements for each course. Homework is corrected and used as an integral part of the class grade. Homework may be writing, reading, review, projects, etc.
MAKE-UP WORK POLICY LCECHS’s policy for make-up work following a student’s absence is as follows: It is the sole responsibility of the student to make direct contact with the teacher to arrange to make-up any assignments missed due to an absence. This is not the responsibility of guidance. Make-up work, including any test missed, should be scheduled immediately upon returning to school. If a student misses a previously scheduled test during an absence, the student is responsible for that test immediately upon their return to school. A student has 5 days from their date of return to make up any work. Any assignments not made up within the assigned period will be assigned a grade of zero.
CHEATING It is the policy of Lake City Early High School that a student caught cheating on an assignment, a test or exam will have his/her paper taken up, and be given a zero on that assignment, test or exam. Cheating is a Level I offense and may also result in disciplinary action. Parents/Guardians will be notified by the teacher
VISITORS All visitors MUST present a valid ID to be granted entry into the school. All visitors must report directly to the Main Office to pick up a visitor’s pass. It is unlawful for any non-student to be on school grounds or in the building without permission from an administrator. In the case of unauthorized visitors, the police may be notified. Students who are absent, suspended or expelled are not to be on school premises. Students from neighboring schools will not be permitted to visit.
STUDENTS EXPELLED FROM OTHER SCHOOLS No student will be accepted for admission to Florence District Three Schools who has been expelled from any other school, is up for disciplinary action, or who may not return to their previous school.
ATTENDANCE
LOSS OF COURSE CREDIT: Absences from school can cause students to fail their courses, even with passing grades.
ABSENCES IN FULL UNIT BLOCK CLASSES - classes held either fall OR spring term are limited to: SIX ABSENCES WITH A DOCTOR’S EXCUSE, AND SIX ABSENCES OF ANY OTHER KIND (including absences with parent notes, out-of-school suspensions, sign-outs, and unexcused absences).
ABSENCES IN CLASSES HELD EVERY DAY for the entire school year are limited to: TEN ABSENCES WITH A DOCTOR’S EXCUSE, AND TEN ABSENCES OF ANY OTHER KIND. (Including absences with parent notes, out-of- school suspensions, sign-outs, and unexcused absences).
ABSENCES IN HALF UNIT CLASSES – nine week classes are limited to: THREE ABSENCES WITH A DOCTOR’S EXCUSE, AND THREE ABSENCES OF ANY OTHER KIND (Including absences with parent notes, out- of-school suspensions, sign-outs, and unexcused absences).
EXCUSES: Written excuses from either a parent or physician are required for ALL absences, except when parents personally sign the student in or out. WRITTEN EXCUSES SUBMITTED MORE THAN FIVE DAYS AFTER THE STUDENT’S RETURN TO SCHOOL WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
PART-DAY ABSENCES: High school attendance is taken by class. Students who sign in or out must be in class a minimum of forty minutes in daily academic classes to be counted present in that class.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: By state law, parents are responsible for ensuring that their children attend school regularly. Excessive unexcused absences can lead to proceedings in family court against the parent, the child, or both.
ABSENCES AND EXCUSES Students must bring in an excuse for all absences when they return from the absence. This note must contain a reason for the absence, a phone number for verification and be signed by a parent/guardian. The excuses will be filed in the student's cumulative folder. The attendance clerk or a school administrator will carefully verify the legitimacy of all excuses. All excuses must be turned in to the attendance office. Excuses brought in late must be approved by the principal. Excuses submitted after five days will not be accepted.
Excuses will be entered into Power School and the admission slips will be given to the student’s first period teacher for the student.
Lawful absences shall include the following: 1. Students who are ill and whose attendance in school would endanger their health or the health of others may be temporarily excused from attendance. 2. Students in whose immediate family there is a serious illness or death. 3. Students may be excused from attendance in school for recognized religious holidays of their faith.
Unlawful absences shall include: 1. Students who are willfully absent from school without the knowledge of their parents. 2. Students who are absent from school without acceptable cause, with or without parental consent.
*Excessive unlawful absences will be referred for truancy.*
EARLY DISMISSAL Students with lawful reasons for early dismissal must bring notes to the Main Office before classes start (8:20 a.m.). Students must pick up Early Dismissal Slips from the Main Office before leaving school.
Parents/guardians who need to sign out a student during school must come into the Main Office to sign the student out. We try not to interrupt classes to dismiss a student. Students should be discharged at the change of classes if possible. Exceptions will be granted by an administrator or his/her designee.
A student may be excused to leave the building during school hours if: 1. The student is so ill or hurt, that, in the judgment of the Health Connections staff, the student should go home. In such cases, the Health Connections staff will call a parent and notify the Main Office to sign the student out. 2. Representing the school in some capacity approved by the principal. 3. There is an emergency for the student Students are responsible for making up all homework, missed assignments, and tests.
STUDENTS WHO MISS SCHOOL FOR UNLAWFUL REASONS WILL BE CHARGED WITH AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE AND WILL RECEIVE A GRADE OF “0” FOR ALL MISSED WORK.
ILLNESS (JGCD) Sick students must report to the Health Connections with a pass. If the illness seems to be minor, they will be allowed to remain for no more than one period. When the student leaves Health Connections, the nurse gives him/her a note to report directly back to class. For more serious illnesses or injuries, parents will be called to pick up their child. Parents should report to the Main Office. All medicine must be brought to the school nurse and must follow Board Policy regulation JGCD-R concerning dispensation of medication on campus.
MEDICATIONS The school nurse may administer oral medicines to students during school hours at the written request of the doctor and parent/guardian. All medications must be turned in to Health Connections when the student arrives at school and must be accompanied with the correct paperwork from a doctor. Students who take medication at school must have written permission to take the medicine from a doctor. All medication must be properly labeled and in its original container. The medication will be kept in a locked case. Any other prescription or non-prescription medication found on campus will be a violation of the Safe and Drug Free Schools Act.
DAMAGED AND LOST TEXTBOOKS Strict enforcement of rules is necessary regarding the proper handling of books. Appropriate damage fees shall be collected where abuse or improper care occurs. The student is responsible for the total cost of a book(s) when not returned.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER The Media Center is open daily @ 7:45 A.M. and during lunch for studying. After first period begins and during classes every student must have an agenda signed by a teacher with the student's name and a time on it to use the Media Center. Students must have their ID's on to enter, to use the computers, and to check out books. A substitute teacher cannot send students to the Media Center. Books that are overdue are assessed at 10 cents per school day. There are no weekend or holiday charges. The district assigned email account is the only e-mail account approved for Florence 3 student use. All correspondence, student-to-student or student-to-teacher, must be through this account. File storage will be provided by the school as well. No disks, CD’s or travel drives may be used.
COMPUTER USE
Acceptable Use of Computers: Students may not access the internet without a signed permission form from a parent or guardian. Students may not use school computers for music, games, personal e-mail or “surfing” the internet. Student internet use will be monitored by teachers and the district and limited to school assignments only! Violation of this policy will be considered a Level II offense and may result in loss of computer use.
OFF-LIMITS AREAS The following areas are considered "off limits". 1) Anywhere outside the campus during the school day unless a student has officially signed out to leave campus. 2) Any classroom to which a student is not assigned unless the student has an official pass to be in that area. 3) Any area that is not in a direct path to the destination on a pass. 4) Any gym area unless you are scheduled in a gym class 5) Front entrance to the gym (lobby), and in the areas leading into the Main Office and the Career Center, as well as behind the mobiles. 6) All parking lots during the school day without specific permission. 7) Track, tennis, softball, and baseball fields and dugouts during the school day. 8) Area behind the career center and the bus parking lot during the school day. 9) Career center during the lunch period. 10) Teachers' lounges. 11) Halls where classes are in progress, during lunch. 12) Any area other than the commons and gym prior to 8:15am
DRESS CODE Code JCDB Revised 04/2012 ______Students are expected to adhere to standards of dress and appearance that are compatible with an effective learning environment. Presently a bodily appearance or wearing clothing which is disruptive, provocative, revealing, profane, vulgar, offensive or obscene, or which endangers the health and safety of students or others is prohibited. Principals shall exercise appropriate discretion in implementing this policy, including making reasonable accommodations on the basis of students’ religious beliefs or medical conditions. Individual schools are permitted to specify additional examples of dress or appearance that are prohibited at the schools under this policy. If a student’s dress or appearance is such that it constitutes a threat to the health or safety of others, distracts the attention of other students or staff from their work or otherwise violates this dress code, the principal of the principal’s designee may require the student to change his/her dress or appearance. A repeated violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action. The board directs the superintendent to develop appropriate administrative rules to put this policy in effect. School Uniforms Florence School District Three schools, for the purposes of increasing student achievement, promoting safety, improving discipline and enhancing school climate, may request to the board to implement school uniforms. Adopted 10/20/88; Revised 02/21/02; 09/19/02; 04/19/12 Florence County School District Three
STUDENT DRESS CODE Code: JCDB Administrative Rule The way a student dresses impacts on his/her overall school performance. Students in schools with identified guidelines tend to have fewer discipline referrals and better grades. An established dress code prepares students for the expected standards in their future employment. Clothing for students should consist of normal school attire. Neatness in dress and appearance does not require expensive clothing or ornaments. Any clothing that promotes negativity or is considered a disruption to the learning process will not be tolerated. All students shall observe the following guidelines:
1) No head gear or sunglasses should be worn in the building. Head gear consists of: hats, caps, hoods, bandannas, visors, hair wraps, stockings. 2) No clothing or accessories promoting the use of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or violence or attire having stated or implied profanities, obscenities, or sexual references. 3) Shorts, skirts, skorts, etc. must be long enough so that the height of a dollar bill will touch your knee-cap and fabric. Even if leggings/jeggings are worn, the dollar bill rule still applies. 4) Leggings/jeggings/ yoga pants cannot be worn alone at any time. 5) Pants are to be worn at the waistline and cannot have holes in them. 6) Clothing is to be worn appropriately. Clothes should be worn so that personal garments are not exposed. 7) Shirts are to be “tucked-in” and not worn outside pants. 8) Top, shirts, blouses, sweaters dresses must completely cover the abdomen, back, shoulders, midriffs and cleavage. Crop shirts may not be worn. 9) See-through tops, pants, fishnet tops, and tops which have arms out to the waist must have a shirt under them. 10) Tank dresses, strapless dresses, and spaghetti-strap dresses must be worn with a jacket over them or a shirt under them. 11) Students cannot wear the following types of jewelry: rings that are worn on more than one finger, any jewelry or belts with spikes and no chains hanging from belts. 12) Shoes must be worn at all times. No Bedroom Shoes or Slippers. 13) Clothing, jewelry, or the attire for dress that displays or promotes drugs, alcohol, weapons, violence, or gang activities are not to be worn at school or any school sponsored activity. 14) Clothing that, in the judgment of the principal, is distracting, unclean, unsafe, or otherwise disruptive to the educational process is not permitted. 15) Administrators and their designees have the authority to make final decisions as to the consequences of the offense.
School Uniforms Students who attend school where school uniforms have been adopted, must wear school uniforms approved by their school. A dress code violation will result in ISS or a phone call home for a change of clothes. Repeated violations may result in suspension from school.
AUTOMOBILE USE (JGFF) Parking on school property is a privilege and courtesy extended to students and others by the Board of Trustees. The administration will establish rules and regulations for the safety of all persons using school lots and for the maximum protection of the vehicles. However, the district shall assume NO responsibility for damage to cars or for theft of cars or articles from cars. Our main campus student parking lot is located at the rear of the main building--north end. Only students who have registered their vehicle may use it. Parking registration permits may be obtained in the office or at registration. The parking permit sells for $30.00. Violations of the regulations governing automobiles may result in the loss of the privilege to park your automobile on campus. The following will govern the use of the parking lot: 1) Students are not allowed to park in faculty parking lots under any circumstances (including the Career Center parking lot) without school staff approval. 2) Vehicles must remain in the parking area during school hours and must not be removed except by the special permission of an administrator. 3) Cars should be locked for the owner's protection. 4) There is to be no loitering in the parking lot or visitation of it without permission from the office. 5) Students are not to sit in parked cars on the campus. This includes before the first bell rings in the morning. 6) Traffic regulations are to be observed at all times when entering and leaving the lot. Traffic is TWO WAY, and the speed limit is 15 mph. 7) All cars without permits and cars parked in unauthorized areas may be towed away at the owner's expense. (This includes parking inside the fence behind the Career Center and in front of the Career Center.) 8) The school has no insurance to cover damage to parked or moving vehicles. ALL PARKING WILL BE AT STUDENT'S RISK. Students cutting school/class may have their parking privilege revoked. Once he/she arrives on campus, a student must remain on campus until properly dismissed. 9) All vehicles parked on campus are subject to being searched.
SOLICITATIONS Fund raising campaigns sponsored within the schools shall be kept to a minimum so as not to impair the efficiency and effectiveness of the education program. The following restrictions shall be observed: 1. Fund-raising campaigns sponsored within the school must be in support of specific student activities or projects that will contribute to the improvement of the school's program. Each campaign shall be approved by the principal and be carried out under their supervision. 2. Students shall not be permitted to participate in fund-raising activities during the school hours except with the specific approval of the principal and the superintendent or their designee. 3. Personal contributions to meet the basic needs of the school will not be solicited by students. 4. No services, written materials or items from private sources shall be sold, distributed or advertised on school premises or in the school or school district without the express permission of the principal of the school involved and/or the superintendent. 5. Solicitation of monetary donations and contributions from students will be permitted only with the district superintendent's approval. Except when related to the instructional program or a voluntary forum or seminar held by students, political materials may not be handed out on school grounds (refer to Board Policy KIA).
CAFETERIA Students will not be allowed to leave school without permission. Students are urged to eat in the school cafeteria. Students without an I.D. will not be allowed to eat. Students will have to get temporary ID.
* The vending machines will be available to students before school, during lunch and after school. Food and drink containers are to be opened in the Commons. No food is to be eaten in classrooms, or the gym. If you use the picnic area, do not open foods or drink until you arrive at the picnic area. Water may be allowed in the classroom at the discretion of the teacher. Any other food or drink must be stored out of sight. 1) When entering and leaving the cafeteria, WALK, don't run. 2) Wait patiently in your place in line; don't crowd or push. 3) Don't attempt to go ahead of someone who has a right to be ahead of you. 4) After you have finished your lunch: a) Clean up your table b) No lunchroom food out of the Commons; including cups, fruit, etc. 5) While you are in the cafeteria, act as you would if you were dining at the home of a friend. 6) Students bringing lunch or breakfast should eat in the Commons or picnic area. LCECHS OFFICE CANNOT RECEIVE LUNCHES FROM HOME OR TAKE-OUTS THAT ARE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS.
Lake City Early College High School “Student in Good Standing” Guidelines In order to participate in extracurricular activities a student must meet the following requirements: 1. Debt free or have an approved payment plan, signed by the principal. 2. Cannot be on district level probation 3. Participate in prescribed academic programs and activities, if identified 4. Have regular attendance in every class with no more than three unexcused absences per nine weeks during participation season. 5. In addition to having an overall passing average, a participant must meet the academic eligibility requirements for athletes as defined by the South Carolina High School League. a. To be eligible in the first semester a student must pass a minimum of five Carnegie units applicable toward a high school diploma. b. If eligible in the first semester, a student must pass four subjects to be eligible second semester. c. If not eligible first semester, a student must pass five subjects to be eligible second semester. 6. A student cannot be truant as defined by the State Board of Education. 7. Students must be considered in active status at LCECHS and not receiving instruction at ACE or on homebound status. 8. The use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and tobacco products are strictly prohibited during participation in extracurricular activities.
CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
The Code of Student Conduct outlines major categories of behavior and states disciplinary actions that may occur as a result of student misconduct. When enforcing the Code of Student Conduct, students and their property may be searched if there is reasonable suspicion that a law or school rules has been or is about to be broken. School staff may question or interview minor students regarding violations of the Code of Conduct and criminal matters without the consent or presence of parents or legal guardians. Metal detector and other types of surveillance equipment may be used in the schools and at school activities for both random searches and where reasonable suspicion to search is present. Police dogs will be used on school property to detect the presence of weapons, drugs, and/or other contraband. Depending on the infraction, appropriate legal charges can be pressed against a student.
Parental Responsibility and Involvement: Each parent of a student enrolled in a Florence District Three school has a duty to assist the school in enforcing the standards of student conduct and attendance in order that education may be conducted in an atmosphere which is free of disruption and threat to persons or property.
Faculty/Staff Responsibility and Involvement: Teachers handle the major portion of student discipline through their system of classroom management. However, teachers will refer a student for misconduct when the situation warrants. Each school has in place a referral system for student discipline. The principal and his/her designees are responsible for addressing the student’s behavior after the teacher referral. Teachers are not allowed to search a student; only school administrators may search students. Administrative Hearings are conducted by the principal with the District’s Hearing Officer.
School Board Policies and Regulations can be accessed via our website at florence3.k12.sc.us.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES (JC) Students are entitled to the following rights and responsibilities, as detailed by the South Carolina Department of Education; civil rights, including the rights to educational opportunity and freedom from discrimination; the responsibility not to discriminate against others. the right to attend free public schools; the responsibility to attend school as required by law and to observe school rules and regulations essential for permitting others to learn at school. the right to due process to the law with respect to suspension, expulsion, unreasonable searches and seizures, or administrative decisions which students believe have injured their rights. the right to free inquiry and expression; the responsibility to observe reasonable rules regarding these rights and responsibilities.
STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE (JCDA): The following listing of offenses and the required or recommended dispositions are submitted for the information of students, parents, and school personnel. Rules, regulations and due process procedures are designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercise of their rights and responsibilities. These rules are effective during the following times and in the following places: on school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours. on the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group; or whenever the safety and protection of school property is involved; off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event; or whenever the conduct may involve the safety and welfare of student, staff or other school officials; en-route to and from school, on a school bus or other school vehicle, and at the location deemed to be the bus stop.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT - LEVEL I Disorderly conduct is defined as those activities engaged in by student(s), which tend to impede orderly classroom procedures or instructional activities, orderly operation of the school, or the frequency or seriousness of which disturb classroom or school.
Acts of disorderly conduct may include, but are not limited to: Classroom/School tardiness; Cheating on examinations or classroom assignments; Gambling; Student behavior that interferes with the instructional process; Kissing, petting and public display of affection 12 Abusive language between or among students; profanity; Failure to complete assignments or carry out directions; Forgery; use of forged notes or excuses; Verbal false statement to staff; lying; Acceptable Use violation Loitering in unauthorized places; Speeding or parking on school grounds; Failure to comply without disciplinary action (detention, etc); Deliberate violation of safety codes Dress Code Violation; Cutting class/school; Truancy; Littering; Other disorderly acts as determined by the Board Possible sanctions to be applied in cases of disorderly conduct may include, but are not limited to: Verbal reprimand; Conference with student and/or parents; Work detail; Withdrawal of privileges; Detention; Referral to Guidance; In-school Suspension; Out-of-school suspension; School Level probation; Other sanctions approved by the Board.
Disorderly conduct (Level I) may be reclassified as disruptive conduct (Level II) if it occurs three or more times or based on the situation.
DISRUPTIVE CONDUCT - LEVEL II Disruptive conduct is defined as those activities engaged in by students(s) which are directed against persons or property, and the consequences of which tend to endanger the health or safety of oneself or others in the school. Some instances of disruptive conduct may overlap certain criminal offenses, justifying both administrative sanctions and court proceedings.
Acts of disruptive conduct may include, but are not limited to: Unprovoked attack upon another student; Fighting between students; Vandalism (minor); Stealing or possession of stolen goods; Threats against others;
13 Verbal assault; Trespassing; Use of tobacco products/ e cigarettes Profanity/Threatening language toward staff to include nonverbal gestures; Refusal to obey school personnel or agents (such as volunteer aides or chaperons) whose responsibilities include supervision of students; Disrespect to school personnel; Illegally occupying or blocking in any way school property with the intent to deprive others of its use; Unlawful assembly; Disrupting lawful assembly; Sexual harassment; Harassment or discrimination based on race, color, sex, disability, national origin ethnicity, sexual orientation or religion Bullying and cyberbullying; Fireworks; A students who is assaulted and retaliates by hitting, kicking, or any other physical means, may be disciplined for fighting. Any other acts as determined by the Board
Possible sanctions to be applied in cases of disruptive conduct may include, but are not limited to: In-school suspension; Work detail; Withdrawal of privileges; Out-of-school suspension; Referral to Guidance; Referral to Administrative Hearing; Assignment to the Alternative Center for Education (ACE); Referral to outside agency; School level probation; Restitution of property and damages, where appropriate; Expulsion Hearing Other sanctions as approved by the Board.
CRIMINAL/ SEVERE CONDUCT - LEVEL III Criminal conduct is defined as those activities engaged in by student(s) which result in violence to oneself or another's person or property or which pose a direct and serious threat to the safety of oneself or others in the school. These activities usually require administrative actions, which result in the immediate removal of the student from the school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities, and/or action by the Board.
Acts of criminal conduct may include, but are not limited to: Assault and battery; 14 Extortion; Bomb threat; Setting a false fire alarm; Possession, use, or transfer of weapons; Sexual offenses; Vandalism (major); Theft, possession, or sale of stolen property; Disturbing schools; Arson; Furnishing or selling unauthorized substances, as defined by board policy; Furnishing, selling, or possession of controlled substances (drugs, narcotics, or poisons); Threatening, intimidating, or an act of physical abuse by a student to a staff member.
Possible sanctions to be applied in cases of criminal conduct may include, but are not limited to: Out-of-school suspension; Administrative Hearing Assignment to alternative school; Expulsion; Restitution of property and damages, where appropriate; Referral to outside agency; Other sanctions as approved by the Board.
SUSPENSIONS (JDD): 1) Students may be suspended for action, which in the opinion of the principal is dangerous, disruptive or tends to interfere with the orderly conduct of the business of the school. 2) The period of the suspension shall be for ten days or less in the judgment of the principal for any one offense but not more than thirty days in any school year. 3) A student may be suspended by a principal, an assistant principal or a principal’s designee. 4) A student shall be orally advised and provided with written notification of the suspension and shall leave school premises as soon as practicable thereafter. During the period of suspension, the student shall not visit any school grounds (except to attend a conference), attend any school function or ride in any school transportation. 5) Suspensions may be appealed as follows: to the building principal, if the suspension was imposed by an assistant principal or the principal’s designee or the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee if the suspension is in excess of three days.
15 6) Students may be suspended, by the District Hearing Officer, as a result of an administrative hearing, pending documentation from a qualified physician determining whether a students is a threat to themselves or others.
STUDENT EXPULSIONS Code JDE Issued 05/2012 A student may be expelled for any reason listed in the Student Behavior Code in Policy JCDA for the commission of any crime, gross immorality, gross misbehavior, or the violation of any other written rules and regulations established by the Board or the State Board of Education, or when the presence of the student is deemed to be detrimental to the best interest of the school. Expulsion means the student cannot attend school or be on the school grounds of any school in the District, cannot attend any program at any school in the daytime or at night, and cannot ride a school bus.
Students who bring a firearm to school must be expelled for at least one calendar year. The board directs the administration to bring recommendations for expulsion consistent with this policy, except that the Superintendent may, on a case-by-case basis, modify this expulsion requirement based on a consideration of all the circumstances of the incident, including the student’s age.
The board may permanently expel any student, consistent with this policy, who is determined to be incorrigible. Incorrigible students may include, but are not limited to, those students who are found to have physically assaulted any District staff member. Students who are recommended for permanent expulsion will be granted an automatic appeal to the Board. Students who have been permanently expelled may petition the Board of Trustees for readmission for the succeeding school year.
If procedures for expulsion are initiated, the parents or legal guardian of the pupil shall be notified, in writing, of the time and place of a hearing before the District Hearing Officer or the superintendent’s designee. At the hearing, parents or legal guardians shall have the right to bring legal counsel and all other regular legal rights, including the right to present witnesses and other evidence and to question any and all witnesses presented by the administration. The right to appeal the decision to the Florence County School District Three Board of Trustees is reserved to the student and the administration.
The student may appeal the action of the board to the proper court.
Should the board reject an administrative recommendation for expulsion or should a court of final disposition reverse the expulsion action, the board will excuse all student absences resulting from said action.
The hearing shall take place within fifteen (15) days of the written notification at a time and place designated by the Hearing Officer or the superintendent’s designee 16 , and a decision shall be rendered within ten (10) days of the hearing. The student may be suspended from school and all school activities during the time the expulsion procedures, including any appeal.
Students who have been expelled from another school district may not be allowed to enroll in Florence County School District Three during the year of their expulsion. In such cases, upon request, the student will be permitted a hearing regarding the district’s denial of enrollment pursuant to the expulsion hearing procedures set forth in this policy.
Every expelled student shall have the right to petition for readmission for the succeeding school year.
Adopted 5/17/88; Revised 5/23/91, 8/19/93, 9/15/94, 02/15/96, 01/20/97, 02/20/97, 5/16/02, 5/10/12
Constitutional and Statutory Provisions A. Unites States Code: 1. 20 U.S.C. 3351 – Gun-Free Schools
DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES Disciplinary Process: Students with disabilities are not exempt from school disciplinary processes, nor are they entitled to remain in a particular educational program when their conduct substantially impairs the education of other children in the program. However, the public schools are required by federal and state law and regulations to meet the individual educational needs of students with disabilities to the extent that current educational expertise permits. Program Prescriptions: The student's IEP must be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not a particular form of discipline is to be utilized. Administrative authorities must observe any such provisions contained in a student's IEP. Suspensions: A student with a disability may be suspended. At the end of the suspension, the student should, if appropriate, be returned to the same educational placement. A student with a disability may be placed in an alternative educational environment as long as the student’s needs are met in accordance with their IEP. The district may remove immediately, for a short period of time, a disabled student who is endangering himself/herself, or others. Expulsions: Expulsion of a student with a disability is equivalent to a change in educational placement and therefore requires special procedures. Before a student may be expelled, a multi-disciplinary team must determine whether or not there is a connection or causal relationship between the reason(s) a student receives OEC services and the misconduct, then expulsion resulting in cessation of educational services for the student would be unallowable.
BULLYING AND CYBERBULLYING (JI):
17 In addition to maintaining a safe environment, free of disruptions, it is important for every student and parent to know that Florence District Three is committed to providing an educational atmosphere free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. Students who threaten to cause harm or harass others will be referred to the principal or assistant principal for appropriate disciplinary action, which may include suspension and/or recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion.
Florence County School District Three School Board Policy defines harassment, intimidation or bullying as a gesture, electronic communication(cell phones, social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc.), or written, verbal, physical or sexual act reasonably perceived to have the effect of either of the following: harming a student physically or emotionally or damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of personal harm or property damage. insulting or demeaning a student or group of students causing substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school intimidation of a weaker person; the process of intimidating or mistreating somebody weaker or in a more vulnerable situation. Bullying does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument, or peer conflict. Should a student be aware of any act of bullying committed by another student that takes place in school, on school property, at a bus stop, on a school bus, or at any school activity, he or she should immediately report this incident to the administration.
Cyberbullying is using information and communication technologies, such as cell phone text messages and pictures, internet, email, social networking websites to support deliberate, hostile behavior intended to harm others. Any authorized or unauthorized use in school or out of school of computer software, computer networks, communication technologies, information technology, and related technologies, which disrupts or interferes with the educational process in any manner is prohibited and may result in a recommendation for expulsion. Should a student be aware of any act of cyberbullying committed by another student that takes place in school or disrupts the educational process at school, he or she should immediately report this incident to the administration.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION FOR CONDUCT NOT RELATED TO SCHOOL ACTIVITES The Hearing Officer may require any student who has been: (1) charged with an offense relating to South Carolina’s laws, or with a violation of School Board policies on weapons, alcohol or drugs, or intentional injury to another person; (2) found guilty or not innocent of a crime which resulted in or could have resulted in injury to others, or of a crime for which the dispositions ordered by a court is 18 required to be disclosed to the superintendent/principal; or (3) expelled for certain drug offenses, convictions or adjudication of delinquency to attend an alternative education program, including, but not limited to: ACE, adult education or any other educational program designed to offer instruction to students for whom the regular program of instruction may be inappropriate. The Hearing Officer may impose this requirement regardless of where the crime occurred.
CELL PHONES/TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION DEVICES
Code: JCDAG Issued: 5/17/2018
This policy is intended to ensure that personal electronic devices on district and school property do not interfere with the learning, safety and wellbeing of students and staff.
For the purposes of this policy, a personal electronic device is any device that emits any audible signal, vibrates, displays any message or video image, or is otherwise capable of sending, receiving, emitting, photographing, recording, storing or displaying any type of audio or visual communication, files, or data. This includes, but is not limited to, cellular phones, smartphones, earphones, camera phones, smart watches, camera devices, video and audio recording devices, digital recording devices, scanning devices, personal digital assistants, MP3 players, iPods, iPads, tablets, computers radios, pagers, any device that allows the possessor to access the Internet, or any similar device or any accessories to such devices such as earphones and Bluetooth devices.
Primary/Elementary Students
Primary or elementary students may not display or use a personal electronic device while on school property or attending a school-related activity, whether on or off school property, during the school day. The student-owned device must be powered off during the school day. 19
The district will make an exception to this rule if the student needs the device for a legitimate medical reason. The principal must have written/approved evidence of the student’s medical need on file.
Middle and High School Students
Students may possess or use personal electronic devices on school property until the beginning school day bell/signal. The device will also be allowed after school denoted by the ending school day bell/signal.
All students are prohibited from using electronic and cellular devices to capture, record, or transmit the words/sounds (audio) and/or images (pictures/video) of any student, district employee, or other person in the school or while attending a school-related activity without express, prior notice and explicit consent for the capture, recording or transmission of such words or images by the student's principal, assistant principal, or district office administrator. Using a device to take or transmit audio and/or pictures/video of an individual without his/her consent is considered an invasion of privacy and is not permitted.
Students are prohibited from using devices to take pictures or record audio/pictures/video in locker rooms, bathrooms, hallways, or on school buses or other district vehicles. The use of devices to take pictures or record audio/video is also prohibited in classrooms.
Students are prohibited from using devices in any way that might reasonably create in the mind of another person an impression of being threatened, humiliated, harassed, embarrassed, or intimidated pursuant to policy JI, Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying.
Students are also prohibited from using a device to capture and/or transmit test information or any other information in a manner constituting fraud, theft, cheating, or academic dishonesty. Likewise, students are prohibited from using device to receive such information.
Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation of the device. The building administration and/or district 20 office may also refer the matter to law enforcement if the violation involves an illegal activity (e.g., child pornography.) Discipline will be imposed in a progressive manner based on the number of previous violations and/or the nature of or the circumstances surrounding a particular violation. Any device confiscated by district employees will be marked in a removable manner with the student’s name and held in a secure location at the student's school until it is retrieved by the parent/legal guardian.
Devices in the custody of the administration will not be searched or otherwise tampered with unless school/district officials reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of the law or other school rules. Any search of devices will be conducted in accordance with policy JCAB, Student Interrogations, Searches and Arrests.
Consequences:
• First offense - Student warning; parent conference with administrator; device will be confiscated and returned at conference in which parent and student signs a memorandum of understanding outlining cell phone policy.
• Second offense – Electronic device will be confiscated for a total of five days; parent conference with an administrator in which parent and student will sign a memorandum of understanding outlining cell phone policy.
• Third offense – Electronic device will be confiscated for a total of 30 days; parent conference with an administrator in which parent and student will sign a memorandum of understanding outlining cell phone policy.
• Fourth offense and beyond – Electronic device will be confiscated for the remainder of the school year.
21 Note: Although the district will take appropriate steps to safeguard all cellular telephones and electronic devices that are confiscated, the district will not be responsible for lost, stolen or damaged devices.
Adopted October/ 2004; Revised: May/2012, April 20, 2017, May 17, 2018 Legal references: S.C. Code, 1976 as amended: Section 50-63-280- Possession of paging devices by public school students; mobile telephones included; adoption of policies.
INTERROGATIONS BY SCHOOL PERSONNEL (JCAB): Students may be questioned by teachers or administrators about any matter pertaining to the operation of a school or facility and/or the enforcement of its rules. Questions must be conducted discreetly and under circumstances which will avoid unnecessarily embarrassment to the student being questioned. Any student answering falsely, evasively, or refusing to answer a proper question may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension.
If a student is suspected or accused of misconduct or infraction of the Student Code of Conduct, the principal or building administrator may interrogate the student without the presence of parent(s)/guardian(s) or legal custodians and without giving the student constitutional warnings.
INTERROGATIONS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT (JCAB): When law enforcement officers find it necessary to questions students during the school day, the principal or his/her designee shall cooperate with law enforcement and shall request to be present in order to protect the best interest of the student, as long as his/her presence does not impede the investigation. The principal or his/her designee should make a reasonable attempt to contact the student’s parents/legal guardian and request his/her presence. Should this attempt fail the
22 principal or his/her designee shall make a reasonable attempt to notify the student’s parent/guardian that law enforcement questioning took place on school grounds.
The principal or his/her designee shall contact law enforcement immediately upon notice that a person is engaging in, or has engaged in, activities on school property or school-sanctioned or sponsored activity. Those activities are ones which may result, or do in fact result, in injury or serious threat of injury to the person or another person or his/her property.
SEARCHES BY SCHOOL PERSONNEL (JCAB): Any principal, or his/her designee, having reasonable suspicion may search any student, place, or thing on school property or in actual or constructive possession of any student during organized school activity off campus, including buses, vehicles of students or visitors. Notice will be conspicuously posted on school property at all regular entrances, and any other access point on school grounds advising individuals that searches may be conducted as outlined in board policy. If a properly conducted search yields evidence that board policy, school rule, or federal or state law has been violated, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken and, in cases where the evidence suggests a violation of law, law enforcement will be notified.
Searches of a person or a person’s personal belongings: A student may be subject to a physical search or a student’s pocket/s, purse, or other container, backpack, book bag, etc. may be required to be emptied because of information received from a teacher, staff member, or other student if such action is reasonable to the principal/administrator. Procedures for searching a person or a person’s personal belongings must comply fully with the “reasonableness standard,” as adopted by the U.S. Supreme Court. It may meet as follows: A particular student has violated board policy, federal or state law; The search could be expected to yield evidence of a violation of school rules; The search may disclose a dangerous weapon or drugs; The search is in pursuit of legitimate interests of the school in maintaining order, discipline, safety, supervision, and education of students; The search shall be reasonable related to the objectives of the search and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction.
Searches of lockers, desks, technology devices, and other school property: The district provides lockers, desks, and other such school property to students for their use during the academic year. Because the district retains ownership of the aforementioned property, school officials may conduct random, unannounced 23 searches of such property. Students will be notified at the beginning of each school year that such property may be searched at any time.
Searches by Canines: The use of trained dogs to search for controlled substances, weapons, bombs in schools/facilities will be on random, unannounced basis. At the request of the principal/administrator, a trained canine with its handler may go into classes and areas to sniff lockers, desks, backpacks, and the exterior of automobiles. Trained canine will not be used to search students themselves. A qualified and authorized handler who will be responsible for the dog’s actions must accompany the canine. Should the dog alert its handler to the presence of any controlled substance, weapon, or bomb, school officials would then have a reasonable basis to conduct a search in accordance with the procedures set forth in board policy.
Contacting Law Enforcement: The principals or his/her designee will contact law enforcement immediately upon notice that a person is engaging in, or has engaged in, activities on school property or school-sanctioned or sponsored activity that may result, or do result, in injury or serious threat of injury to the person or another person or his/her property or to property belonging to the school/district.
SECRET SOCIETIES/GANG ACTIVITY (JCDAF) Issued 09/15/2016 PURPOSE: The Board of Trustees will maintain conditions on school property for all school-sponsored events in order to ensure as safe an environment as possible for students and staff in accordance with law and the standards set by the Florence County School District Three Board of Trustees. In establishing such standards, the Board prohibits the presence of secret societies and gangs, gang-like activity, and gang related apparel, on school property and at school-sponsored events, because the Board finds that gangs, gang-like activities, and gang-related apparel threaten the safety and well-being of students and employees, and are harmful to the educational purposes of the District.
DEFINITIONS: The following definitions shall be used in connection with this policy:
Gang: As used herein, the term “gang” means any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, which is not sponsored by the school, which may or may not have secret and/or excusive membership, and which has an identifiable name or identifying sign or symbol, whose members individually or collectively engage in, or have engaged in, the commission of criminal acts, the violation of school rules, the establishment of
24 territory or “turf,” or any other action which threatens the safety, welfare, or property of others.
Gang-like activities: As used herein, the phrase “gang-like activity” shall mean any conduct engaged in by a student 1) on behalf of any gang, 2) to perpetuate the existence of any gang, 3) to effect the common purpose and design of any gang, and 4) or to represent a gang affiliation, loyalty or membership in anyway while on school grounds or while attending a school function. For purposes of this policy, “gang-like activity” may include, but is not limited to, the following activities occurring on school property or at a school sponsored activity:
Wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying, or selling any gang- related apparel, i.e., any clothing, jewelry, apparel, emblem, badge or accessory that denotes membership in, or affiliation with, a gang:
Committing any act or omission, or using any speech or expression, either verbal or nonverbal, including hand signals and gestures, that denotes membership in, or affiliation with, any gang;
Hazing, initiating, soliciting or recruiting others for membership in a gang;
Requesting any person to pay for “protection,” claiming “turf” or territory, or intimidating, bullying, retaliating against, threatening, or harassing any person;
Encouraging, inciting, or coercing another person to act, commit acts of omissions against his/her will in furtherance of the common purpose and design of any gang; Committing any illegal act, including but not limited to, assault, battery, hazing, extortion, causing a riot or disrupting the orderly operation of school, and vandalism, such as defacing school property with gang graffiti or messages;
Possessing, selling, or facilitating the possession or sale of a weapon, controlled substance, drug paraphernalia, or other prohibited contraband.
Gang-related apparel: As used herein, the term “gang-related apparel” means any clothing, jewelry, emblem, accessory, or badge that denotes membership in, affiliation with, support for, or loyalty to, a gang, as that term is defined herein. Recognizing that gang styles and clothing continually evolve and change, that no list could comprehensively define all clothing affiliated with gangs, and that the wearing of an item that is typically associated with gangs may not actually connote actual membership in a gang, the Board provides the following representative list of clothing items as guidance to students and parents, that they might be informed of those items that, according to District administrators and Florence County detectives, often denote gang membership or affiliation. Baseball hat or other cap with gang symbols, moniker, or insignia on it, particularly on inside of brim; Bandannas, or “rags,” worn on a person or displayed; 25 Shirts, jackets, or apparel with gang symbols, monikers, insignia, clothing, or other gang identifiers; Clothing or apparel displaying Old English style or “graffiti” style writing; Any apparel or style of wearing clothing that school officials, in light of the totality of the circumstances, and after consultation with law enforcement authorities, view as denoting gang membership or affiliation.
RULES OF CONDUCT FOR BUS RIDERS:
Waiting for the School Bus 1. All bus drivers are expected to arrive at each designated stop within the same ten minutes of the set hour each day, unless there are uncontrollable factors (mechanical problems, inclement weather, driver absent or student misbehavior). 2. Because school buses operate on a very tight schedule, students should arrive at the bus stop fifteen minutes ahead of the bus. Each student should be on time-bus drivers will not wait for those who are late unless it’s during inclement weather. 3. Students may ride only the bus they are regularly assigned. 4. Students are prohibited from bringing the following items on the bus: animals; food/drinks; glass containers; weapons; balloons; oversized items-including band instruments-which obstruct the driver’s view, block the aisle or exits, or displace a student from a seat; and any other item or object which will interfere with the safe operation of a school bus. Radios/compact disc players/MP-3/Ipod’s players, cell phones, or similar devices and handheld electronic games are not permitted. If a bus driver should discover a student using one of these devices, they are required to submit a disciplinary referral to the appropriate school official. (The US Department of Transportation, National Highways Traffic Safety Administration, Standard 17, Pupil Safety: …baggage and other items transported in the passenger compartment should be stored so that the aisles are kept clear and the doors and emergency exits of school vehicles remain unobstructed at all times //South Carolina Department of Education: Band instruments, or other items, carried on a school bus must be of such size that they can be transported in the student’s lap. This is necessary to insure that all items are kept under the control of the student at all times in case of accident or an emergency. School district compliance with this standard is mandatory. No student carry-on items can obstruct the orderly emergency or non-emergency exiting of the bus. Securement of carry-on items prohibits them from becoming flying objects in the event of an accident. Items on the seats, floor, or obstructing the aisles endanger all students on the bus. 5. Passengers are to be seated immediately and remain seated while the bus is in motion. 26
Riding and Leaving the School Bus 1. The driver of a school bus is in complete charge of the passengers while they are aboard the bus and should be given the same respect as a classroom teacher. Complaints against a driver should be directed to the transportation office. 2. Students should conduct themselves in an acceptable manner at all times. Profanity, obscene gestures, horseplay, throwing objects, fighting, and boisterous or other improper behavior will not be tolerated. Outside of ordinary conversation, classroom behavior will be observed. 3. Students will occupy the seat assigned to them by the driver. All students will have assigned seats and will be required to furnish information for a bus roster. Once seats are assigned, students may be held accountable for damage. 4. The aisle of the bus must remain free of books and other objects. 5. Passengers should keep their arms, head, or others parts of the body inside the bus at all times. 6. Passengers should not tamper with the emergency door, fire extinguisher, or other safety equipment on the bus- including cameras. 7. Students should assist the driver in keeping the bus clean by discarding trash in an appropriate trash receptacle. 8. Students should remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. Upon arrival at school, students in the front seats will leave the bus first and all will exit in an orderly fashion. 9. Passengers are allowed to leave the bus only at regular designated stops.
General Bus Information
1. Student can only switch from their assigned bus with a written request from a parent/guardian. The school principal and the transportation director will evaluate each request. If the parents request a drop off other than the normal stop, they must make this request in writing and have it notarized. The new stop location must be within the child’s assigned school zone and be on a space available basis. 2. Complaints or safety concerns regarding a bus or bus driver should be made to the Transportation Office. 3. All bus students are expected to obey the principals and teacher at each school their bus serves. The students’ school principal will discipline students who disobey any school official on school grounds-including school buses. 4. Most school buses are equipped with a video cameras and audio recording device which can be used to monitor passenger and bus activity. Student behavior on the bus and the driver’s management of the behavior are key elements for a safe bus ride. Requests to view a video can be made through the administrator at the child’s school. Requests are 27 granted when there is ‘just cause’ and with the intent of observing and resolving a particular problem or situation. Viewings will be conducted only within the presence of the school administrator. 5. The regulations are established for the protection of students, school officials, school property and the motoring public. Students who fail to follow these rules could lose privilege to ride any Florence District Three bus. When, in the judgment of school district officials, any bus student’s behavior endangers the lives of other bus students and the motoring public, then that student can be immediately removed from the bus. Bus privileged will remain suspended until the student has had a conference with school principal. 6. Bus drivers cannot suspend a student from riding the bus. Only the principal or principal’s designee of the school the student attends can make this decision. 7. All students are subject to transportation laws, rules, and regulations from the time they board a school bus until the bus route is completed or until the student arrive at their normal destinations, either home or school. 8. Should a bus arrive at an assigned bus stop for a two week period, and no students board the bus, the bus stop will be deactivated. Should the parents wish to reactivate the bus stop, they will need to contact the Transportation Office and it make take up to four business days to complete the process.
Request of Parents and Guardians Parents or guardians are responsible for the safety, conduct, and timely arrival of their children to, from, and at the designated school bus stop before the arrival of the school bus for pick and transport to school and the timely departure of the child after the school bus leaves the designated school bus top after transporting the children from school. (SC-59-67-415) Revised – 5-29-15
COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES (JCE) Grievance Procedures for Students In all cases of legitimate dissatisfaction on the part of a student, the guidance counselor of the school must first be appealed to and if his/her decision or advice is unsatisfactory, the assistant principal shall be appealed to. If the decision of the assistant principal proves unsatisfactory, the matter shall then be referred to the principal. If dissatisfaction prevails, the matter shall be brought to the attention of the superintendent. If the decision of the superintendent is unsatisfactory, the matter shall be referred to the Board of Trustees. The channel of redress for students in matters of dispute with school authorities consists of the following successive conferences: 1) Student and/or parent, teacher; 2) Student and/or parent, teacher, principal, or assistant principal; 3) Student and/or parent, teacher, principal, superintendent.
28 TITLE IX COMPLAINTS Students who believe that they have been discriminated against on the basis of their sex have the right to appeal to the principal. If they are not satisfied with the decision of the principal, they may then appeal to the District Title IX Coordinator, Ms. Yvonne Scott, and, if not satisfied with the decision of the Title IX Coordinator, they may appeal to the Superintendent and then to the Board. Appeal to the Board will be scheduled through the superintendent's office.
SECTION 504 POLICY STATEMENT ON NONDISCRIMINATION Florence County School District Three does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin or disability in admission to or access to education or other programs, services, and activities; in employment practices; or in any aspect of its operations. Questions, complaints, or requests for information may be directed to the school-based Section 504 Contact Person: Scott H. Lamparski, Assistant Principal PO Drawer 1569, Lake City, SC 29560 (843) 374-5119 Ext. 2902 Regular Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The deaf or hard of hearing may use: TTY 1-800-735-8583 or Voice 1-800-735-2905 SECTION 504 COMPLAINTS Students who believe that they have been discriminated against on the basis of their handicapping condition have the right to appeal to the principal. If they are not satisfied with the decision of the principal, they may then appeal to the District Section 504 Coordinator, Mrs. Kasey Feagin, and, if not satisfied with the decision of the Section 504 Coordinator, they may appeal to the Superintendent and then to the Board. Appeals to the Board will be scheduled through the superintendent's office.
HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY The Florence County School District Three Board of Trustees is committed to safeguarding the rights of all students, employees and third parties within the school system, on school campuses, at school events, and on school buses to learn and work in an environment that is free from all forms of harassment and/or sexual harassment.
It is the policy of the Florence County School District Three Board of Trustees to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment of any type. The Board prohibits any form of sexual harassment or harassment based upon age, religion, disability, color, sexual orientation, and/or race/national origin. All persons are required to make a conscientious effort to fully consider and understand the nature and basis of a harassment or sexual harassment complaint.
It shall be a violation of this policy for any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel or the Florence County School District Three Schools to harass 29 or sexually harass a student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel through conduct of communication of any form as defined by this policy. The school system will act to promptly investigate all complaints and to promptly and appropriately discipline any student or school personnel who is found to have violated this policy, and /or take other appropriate action reasonably calculated to end the harassment or sexual harassment.
For the purpose of this policy, school personnel include school board members, employees of the Florence County School District Three Schools, agents, volunteers, contractors, or persons subject to the supervision and control of the Florence County School District Three Schools.
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and section 504 of the Rehabilitation act of 1973 require school districts to have officially adopted policy statements of nondiscrimination on the basis of sex, disability, sexual orientation, national origin and race.
HARASSMENT DEFINED AND PROHIBITED IT IS THE POLICY OF THE FLORENCE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT THREE BOARD OF TRUSTEES NOT TO DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF SEX, RACE, NATIONAL ORIGIN, COLOR, CREED, RELIGION, AGE, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, MARITAL STATUS, OR DISABILITY IN ITS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES, OR EMPLOYMENT POLICIES AS REQUIRED BY THE REFERENCED FEDERAL AND STATE STATUTES. ANY STUDENT OR SCHOOL PERSONNEL SHALL BE PUNISHED FOR INFRACTIONS OF THE POLICY WHEN: The harassing conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that affects the ability of the student or school personnel to participate in or benefit from the educational program or activity of the work environment and/or creates an intimating, threatening or abusive environment. The harassing conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance. Harassment may include, but is not limited to: Graffiti, notes, or cartoons containing discriminatory language; Name calling, jokes, or rumors; Negative stereotypes and hostile acts which are based upon a person’s sex, race, national original, color, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability; Written or graphic material containing discriminatory comments or stereotypes that is posted or circulated and which is aimed at degrading individuals or members of protected classes; Threatening or intimidating conduct directed at another because of the other’s race, national origin, color, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability; A physical act of aggression or assault, or other acts of aggressive conduct, upon another because of, or in a manner reasonably related to, an individual’s race, nation origin, color, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability.
30 SEXUAL HARASSMENT DEFINED AND PROHIBITED Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature when: Submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining or retaining employment or of obtaining an education; or submission to or rejection of the conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that individual’s employment or education; or that conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s employment or education, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive employment or education environment. Any sexual harassment as defined when perpetrated on any student or employee will be treated as sexual harassment under this policy. Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to: Sexual advances; verbal harassment or abuse; subtle pressure for sexual activity; touching of a sexual nature, including inappropriate patting or pinching; Intentional brushing against a student or employee’s body; demanding sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning an individual’s employment or educational status; demanding sexual favors, especially when accompanied by implied or overt promises of preferential treatment with regard to an individual’s employment or educational status; graffiti of a sexual nature; displaying or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures or other written materials, including making and playing sexually explicit audio/video tapes; sexual gestures, including touching oneself sexually or talking about one’s sexual activities in front of others; sexual or “dirty” jokes; or spreading rumors about or rating other students as to sexual activity or performance.
REPORTING PROCEDURES Any person who believes he/she has been the victim of harassment or sexual harassment as defined in Section II and III of this policy by a student or school personnel, or any third person with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute harassment or sexual harassment should report the alleged act(s) immediately to the appropriate school system official as designed by this policy. The Board encourages the reporting party or complainant to use the report form available from the principal of each school or available from the school system office. In Each School – The school principal is the person responsible for receiving oral or written reports or harassment or sexual harassment at the school level. Upon receipt of a report, the principal must notify the Superintendent/Designee (as appointed by the Superintendent) immediately. A written report will be forwarded to Superintendent/Designee. Failure to forward any harassment or sexual harassment report or complaint as provided herein will result in disciplinary action. If the complaint involves the school principal, the complaint shall be filed directly with the Superintendent/Designee.
31 INVESTIGATION AND RECOMMENDATION By Board authority the Superintendent/Designee, upon receipt of a report or complaint alleging harassment or sexual harassment, shall immediately authorize an investigation. This investigation shall be conducted by the school system official and/or by a third party designated by the Superintendent. The party making the investigation shall provide a written report of the status of the investigation as soon as possible to the Superintendent and the Superintendent/Designee.
In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes harassment or sexual harassment, the surrounding circumstances, the nature of the sexual advances is sexual harassment is alleged relationships between parties involved and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred should be considered.
The investigation shall consist of, but not be limited to, personal interviews with the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation shall also consist of any other methods and documents deemed pertinent by the investigator.
In addition, the Superintendent shall take immediate steps to protect the complainant, students and employees pending completion of an investigation of alleged harassment or sexual harassment.
REPRISAL The Superintendent shall discipline any individual who retaliates against any person who reports alleged incidents of harassment or sexual harassment (as defined in Section II and III of this policy) or who retaliates against any person who testifies, assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding or hearing relating to a harassment or sexual harassment complaint. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment, which creates a hostile environment.
RIGHT TO ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURES These procedures do not deny the right of any individuals to pursue other avenues of recourse that may be available under state and/or federal law. False accusations of harassment or sexual harassment (as defined in Sections II and II of this policy) can have a serious detrimental effect on innocent parties. Any person, who knowingly and intentionally makes false accusations for any reason that would be contrary to the spirit and intent of this policy, shall be subject to immediate and appropriate disciplinary action.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT AS SEXUAL ABUSE Under certain circumstances, sexual harassment may constitute sexual abuse as defined under South Carolina Law. In such situations, the school system shall
32 comply with South Carolina Law regarding the reporting of suspected abuse to appropriate authorities.
DISCIPLINE Any action taken pursuant to this policy will be consistent with requirements of federal law, South Carolina statutes, and school system policies. The Superintendent will take disciplinary action deemed necessary and appropriate.
NEGATIVE MEDIA RELEASE During the school year, articles and news release are written about and for the school system and may appear in the local, state or national news media or on the district’s website. Often these are accompanied by photographs of students. Parents who do not want to have their children’s picture taken or have their children interviewed for articles and news releases should send the school a written note to that fact, with the child’s name, grade (teacher’s name) and a parent’s signature. The school principal will notify the appropriate people and will keep the record at the school.
33 TO: Patrons of Florence County School District Three
FROM: Laura Hickson, Superintendent Florence County School District Three
SUBJECT: Inclement Weather/Media Announcement
In case or severe weather and the possibility of school closing, Florence County School District Three reminds administrators, faculty, staff, students and parents of the following procedures:
1. Announcements will be made to television stations – WPDE TV-15, WBTW-TV13 and WMBF TV-10 – and radio stations – WMXT 102.1 FM, WHLZ 100.5 FM, WYNN 106.3 FM, WCMG 94.3 FM, WBZF 98.5 FM and WPDT 105.1 FM.
Announcements of any closing will also be made on school websites: . Lake City Early Childhood Center – http://lcps.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . Main Street Elementary – http://mses.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . J.C. Lynch Elementary – http://jcles.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . Olanta Elementary – http://oes.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . Scranton Elementary – http://ses.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . Ronald E. McNair Jr. High– http://remms.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . J. Paul Truluck Intermediate – http://jptms.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . Lake City Early College High – http://lchs.florence3.k12.sc.us/home.aspx . District – http://www.florence3.k12.sc.us
2. Decisions about school openings will be made after District officials receive information from the Sheriff’s office, weather station and District personnel who inspect road conditions.
3. Announcements to the public will be made no later than 7:00 a.m.
4. A siege of telephone calls presents a real problem to school officials; therefore, students and parents are strongly urged not to telephone, but to stay tuned to their radios and/or televisions or check school websites for the official information.
5. Days lost because of emergency closing of schools for any reason must be made up at times designated by the district
34 TO: Patrons of Florence County School District Three
FROM: Laura Hickson, Superintendent Florence County School District Three
SUBJECT: Bus Routes and Rules
Listed below are some important state guidelines with which you need to be familiar regarding bus transportation in Florence County School District Three:
. Buses shall be routed in the most direct way over publicly maintained highways and streets to provide service within three-tenths (0.3) mile of each child in grades K-12 who qualifies for transportation.
. School bus stops on each route shall not be closer than two-tenths (0.2) mile apart at safe points.
. It is the policy of the State of South Carolina not to assume the responsibility of transporting any students living within one and one-half (1 ½) miles of the school they attend; such distance is to be determined by the most direct route over publicly maintained roads or streets.
. State law prohibits anyone other than students, school officials or law enforcement officers to board a school bus.
. In consideration of the tight schedule under which the school buses operate, students must be at the bus stop at the designated time and be ready to board the bus with the least possible delay. Buses will not wait for those who are late.
. Students may ride only the bus to which they are regularly assigned. They may not ride any other bus home with friends for any reason unless a note from home is sent to the principal and he/she in turn clears it with the transportation office.
. Students may not bring animals, food, drinks, weapons, explosives or other dangerous materials on the bus.
For more details or other information about the school buses and transportation, contact Mrs. Sharon McClam, transportation supervisor, at -843374-8652.
35 TO: Patrons of Florence County School District Three
FROM: Laura Hickson, Superintendent Florence County School District Three
SUBJECT: Discipline
The School Discipline Code for Florence County School District Three is based on School Laws for South Carolina.
The principal is empowered to take appropriate action against non-students who invade the building, grounds or other school property. Such action will include the right to call in the police authorities and swear out warrants. The authority for such is Article 7, 16-17-420 of the South Carolina Code of Laws: “Disturbing schools -- It shall be unlawful: (1) For any person willfully or unnecessarily (a) to interfere with or to disturb in any way or in any place the students or teachers of any school or college in this State, (b) to loiter about such school or college premises or (c) to act in an obnoxious manner thereon; or (2) For any person to (a) enter upon any such school or college premises or (b) loiter around the premises, except on business, without the permission of the principal or president in charge. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction thereof, shall pay a fine of not less than one hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars or be imprisoned in the county jail for not less than thirty days nor more than ninety days.”
The following offenses may lead to suspension or expulsion: theft; the use of obscene or profane language or gestures; the deliberate refusal to obey school personnel when ordered to leave a room or report to the office; an unauthorized walk-out by a student or students from a classroom, school building or campus; physical abuse of a student or a member of the staff of a school; blackmailing, threatening, intimidating, or bullying other students or school staff; possessing any type of weapon such as gun, knife, blackjack or other deadly weapon; distribution on school property of materials unauthorized by the principal; possession, sale or use of drugs or alcoholic beverages; deliberate failure to attend classes after reporting to school; the willful destruction of school property or property on school grounds; any act of disorder which disrupts the conduct of the classroom or obstructs the carrying out of normal school activities within the school building or on school grounds; or smoking.
Possession of a weapon on school premises and possession, use or distribution of controlled substances are considered serious offenses and will usually result on the recommendation of expulsion.
36 In cases such as theft, physical abuse, possession of a weapon, possession, distribution of use of alcohol or destruction of property, a student will also be subject to other laws and penalties. In these cases, the principal first will attempt to contact the student’s parents/guardians to inform them of the offenses and that law enforcement will be notified. The principal then notifies law enforcement and the district superintendent.
Students between the ages of seven (7) and sixteen (16), inclusive, are required to attend school. Failure to comply with this law can result in a fine of $50 per day or imprisonment for up to thirty (30) days.
Prior to suspending a student for a violation of laws or school policies, the principal is required to give oral notice of the charge against the student and the opportunity for the student to present his/her version. If the student is suspended, the principal will notify his/her parents or guardians in writing, citing the reason for the suspension and establishing a time and place for a conference within three (3) days. ______
37 TO: Patrons of Florence County School District Three
FROM: Laura Hickson, Superintendent Florence County School District Three
SUBJECT: Student Dress Code
Students are expected to adhere to standards of dress and appearance that are compatible with an effective learning environment. Presently, a bodily appearance or wearing clothing which is disruptive, provocative, revealing, profane, vulgar, offensive or obscene, or which endangers the health and safety of students or others is prohibited.
Principals shall exercise appropriate discretion in implementing this policy, including making reasonable accommodations on the basis of students’ religious beliefs or medical conditions. Individual schools are permitted to specify additional examples of dress or appearance that are prohibited at the schools under this policy.
The following are examples of dress or appearances that are prohibited. The list is not all-inclusive.
1. Exposed undergarments 2. Sagging pants 3. Excessively short or tight garments 4. Bare midriff shirts 5. Strapless shirts 6. Attire with messages or illustrations that are lewd, indecent or vulgar 7. Attire that advertises any product or services not permitted by law to minors 8. Head gear of any kind 9. See-through clothing 10. Attire that exposes cleavage 11. Any adornments such as chains or spikes that reasonably could be perceived as or used as a weapon
38 12. Any symbols, styles or attire frequently associated with intimidation, weapon or violent groups about which students of a particular school have been notified
If a student’s dress or appearance is such that it constitutes a threat to the health or safety or others, districts attention of other students or staff from their work or otherwise violates this dress code, the principal or the principal’s designee may require the student to change his/her dress or appearance. A second or repeated violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action.
39 TO: Patrons of Florence County School District Three
FROM: Laura Hickson, Superintendent Florence County School District Three
SUBJECT: Federal Program Complaint Resolution Procedures
The South Carolina Department of Education (SDE) has the authority to hear complaints and appeals regarding federal programs.
Organizations or individuals may file a complaint alleging the state, school district or consortium of districts is violating a federal statute or regulation that applies to any of the following programs:
1. Part A of Title I (Improving Basic Programs Operated by Local Education Agencies) 2. Part B of Title I (Even Start Family Literacy Programs) 3. Part C of Title I (Migrant Education) 4. Part D of Title I (Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At-Risk of Dropping Out) 5. Part E of Title I (Comprehensive School Reform Demonstration Program) 6. Title II (Eisenhower Professional Development Program) 7. Subpart 2 of Part A of Title III (State and Local Programs for School Technology Resources) 8. Part A of Title IV (Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities) 9. Title VI (Innovative Education Program Strategies) 10. Part B, Subpart 4 of Title III (Emergency Immigrant Education)
Organizations or individuals may appeal a decision by a LEA or consortium of districts regarding an alleged violation of a federal statute or regulation that applies to the above listed programs within thirty days of receiving the decision by the LEA or consortium.
Complaints and appeals must be in writing containing the following information: 40
1. A statement that the state or sub grantee has violated a requirement of a federal statute or regulation that concerns a covered program; 2. The facts on which the statement is based; and 3. The specific requirement of law or regulation allegedly violated.
Complaints and appeals must be filed with the State Superintendent of Education at the South Carolina Department of Education, 1429 Senate Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201.
Upon receiving the complaint, the SDE will conduct an investigation to determine the merits of the complaint. That investigation may include on- site investigation, as determined by the SDE.
The SDE will send a letter confirming receipt of the complaint within ten (10) business days of receiving the complaint. This notification may also include a request for additional information from the complainant.
The SDE will make a final decision regarding the complaint within sixty (60) days, except under exceptional circumstances that warrant an extension. In such cases, the SDE will notify the complainant that an extension of time has been issued. The State Superintendent of Education will make this determination.
The Deputy Superintendent, of the division as appropriate for the federal program in question, will issue a final decision on the matter within the timeframe set forth. The final decision will include a summary of findings and the nature of corrective action, if any, to be taken including applicable timelines.
LEAs are required to disseminate, free of charge, adequate information about this complaint procedure to parents and appropriate private school officials or representatives.
______41 TO: Patrons of Florence County School District Three
FROM: Laura Hickson, Superintendent Florence County School District Three
SUBJECT: The Family Educational Rights Privacy Act (FERPA)
This is to advise you that pursuant to the Federal "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974" (FERPA), and its implementing regulations, as well as District policy and regulation parents/guardians or students under 18 years of age and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") are entitled to certain rights with respect to a student's education records. These rights are set forth below:
1. Parents/Guardians and eligible students have a right to inspect and review the student's education records defined by law to include those records, files, documents, and other materials which contain information directly related to the student and are maintained by the District or by a person acting for the District. A parent/guardian or an eligible student shall make a request for access to that student's education records, in writing to the Building Principal of the school at which the student is, or was last, in attendance. Upon receipt of such request, arrangements shall be made to provide access to such records within a reasonable period of time, but in any case, not more than forty-five (45) days after the request has been received.
2. Parent(s)/guardian(s) and eligible students are also entitled to challenge the contents of such records, to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, and to ask for the correction or deletion of any such inaccurate misleading, or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein. Parents/guardians and eligible students are also entitled to notice of any decision by the District not to amend a student's education records as requested by the parent/guardian or eligible student, and of their right to a hearing regarding the District's denial of a request for such an amendment. Any questions concerning the procedure to be followed in making a 42 challenge and/or requesting a hearing should be directed to the Superintendent.
3. Parents/guardians and eligible students have a right that student education records, and any material contained therein which is personally identifiable, are confidential and may not be released or made available to persons other than parents/guardians or eligible students without the prior written consent of such parents/ guardians or eligible students except: a. as directory information unless the parent/guardian or eligible student objects by October 1 of each school year. District student directory information includes name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height (if members of athletic teams), degrees and awards received, and the name of the educational agency or institution previously attended by the student. Parents/Guardians and eligible students may refuse to let the District designate any or all of the above information about the student as directory information. Any parent or eligible student who objects to the release of any or all of this information without consent must notify, in writing, the principal of the school where the records are kept by September 12, 2009. The objection must state what information the parent or student does not want to be classified as directory information. In no objection is received by September 12, 2009, the information will be classified as directory information until the beginning of the next school year; b. to another school district in which a student seeks to enroll or intends to enroll, upon request by such district; c. to individuals employed by the District either as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel, school board members when acting as a corporate entity in the discharge of statutory duties and responsibilities, and individuals with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task. (i.e., the school attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist) who have a legitimate educational need for access to such records. A legitimate educational need for any of these individuals to access a 43 student's records without prior written consent of a parent/guardian or eligible student will be deemed to exist only when it can be shown that such access and disclosure is necessary for any such individual to fulfill his/her professional responsibilities, or d. as otherwise expressly permitted by law. e. Parents/guardians and eligible students have a right to obtain a copy of the district's policy and accompanying- regulation pertaining to the confidentiality of student education records. A copy of said policy and regulation may be obtained from the Building Principal of the school at which the student is, or was last, in attendance.
If you feel that your rights under the "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974" have been abridged as a result of alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA, you may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Family Policy Compliance Office, 600 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.
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