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Covington County School District 2018-2019

Parent and Student Handbook

Effectively educating all students by providing high quality instruction in a safe, orderly, and caring environment.

www.cov.k12.ms.us

“Every Student Matters and Every Moment Counts”

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NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

The Covington County School District complies with all federal and state laws and regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marriage or veteran status or disability, in employment or in the delivery of educational services. This applies to all educational programs and extracurricular activities. Inquires associated with Title VI, Title IX, and/or accommodations for disabled employees, the public and accessibility of facilities and programs should be directed to Babette Duty, Deputy Superintendent at 601-765- 8247. Inquiries regarding the application of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (concerning students with disabilities who are not eligible for Special Education) / (Americans with Disability Act should be directed to Mrs. Rachel Rogers, Deputy Superintendent, at 601-765-2104. These individuals may be contacted at the district main office located at 1211 South Dogwood Avenue. The mailing address is P.O. Box 1269, Collins, MS 39428.

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th July 2018 July 4 Holiday JANUARY 2019 Dec.24 Jan. 4 Christmas Break st S M T W Th F S July 31 First Day for S M T W Th F S Jan 7-8 Prof. Dev. day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 teachers 1 2 3 4 5 21 - M.L. King Day 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Student Days - 16 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Teacher Days – 18 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31 185 day employees report th Jan.9

AUGUST 2018 6th - First Day of School for FEBRUARY 2019 February 18- President’s S M T W Th F S Students S M T W Th F S Day Holiday 30 31 1 2 3 4 Student Days - 20 1 2 Student Days - 19 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Teacher Days- 24 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Teacher Days – 19 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 July 31- August 3 Pro Dev. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Day 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28

July 31st – 185 day employees report

SEPTEMBER 2018 September 3 - Labor Day MARCH 2019 March 8 – End of 3rd nine S M T W Th F S Holiday S M T W Th F S wks 1 Student Days - 19 1 2 Mar 7=9 nine wks tests 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Teacher Days – 19 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 March 11-15 Spring Break 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 41 days in 3rd 9 wks 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Student Days - 16 30 31 Teacher Days – 16

OCTOBER 2018 October 12 – End of First 9 APRIL 2019 April 19-22 Easter Holidays S M T W Th F S Weeks S M T W Th F S Student Days – 20 1 2 3 4 5 6 October 10-11 nine wks 1 2 3 4 5 6 Teacher Days - 20 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 tests 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 October 12th Pro Dev. Day 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 October 15 & 16– Fall 28 29 30 Break 48 student days in 1st 9 wks Student Days -20 Teacher Days – 21

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NOVEMBER 2018 November 19-23 - Thanksgiving MAY 2019 22-24 nine wks tests S M T W Th F S Holidays S M T W Th F S May 24 63% day for 1 2 3 Student Days - 17 1 2 3 4 students 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Teacher Days – 17 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 17-18 Graduation Dates 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Student Days – 18 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 Teacher Days – 18

May 27 Memorial Day Holiday 48 days in 4th 9 wks

DECEMBER 2018 December 21 - 63% Day Graduation: S M T W Th F S December 21 – End of 2nd 1 9 wks SHS May 18 PM 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 December 19-21 nine wks 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 tests MOHS May 17 PM 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 December 24 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 -Jan. 4- Christmas CHS May 18 AM 30 31 Break 43 days in 2nd 9 wks BOE APPROVED MARCH Student Days - 15 8, 2018 Teacher Days - 15

Covington County School District 2018 - 2019 School Year

Period Begins Progress Reports Ends Report Cards

First Aug. 6, 2018 Sept. 6, 2018 Oct. 11, 2018 Oct. 18, 2018

Second Oct. 17, 2018 Nov. 15, 2018 Dec. 21, 2018 Jan. 11, 2019

Third Jan. 9, 2019 Jan. 31, 2019 Mar. 8, 2019 Mar. 21, 2019

Fourth Mar. 18, 2019 Apr. 11, 2019 May 24, 2019 May 24, 2019

Last Day for Students: Friday, May 24, 2019 Total Student Days: 180 Last Day for Teachers: Thursday, May 24, 2019 Total Teacher Days: 182 Graduations: Mt. Olive High School - Friday, May 17, 2019 PM Collins High School - Saturday, May 18, 2019 AM, Seminary High School – Saturday, May 18, 2019 PM December 20, 2017 and May 24, 2018 will be 60% days (students only).

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WELCOME TO SCHOOL YEAR 2018-2019 Welcome to the Covington County School District for the 2018- 2019 school year. As part of our commitment to you and your child, this handbook has been designed to answer your questions about how school works. Please read it and discuss it with your child. If at some point you have a question, please feel free to contact the Central Office for clarification at 601-765-8247.

The Covington County School District Student Handbook references the policies of the Covington County School District. These policies are available for your viewing online at www.covingtoncountyschools.org. Click on Forms/Links. Under Links, choose Board Policy. You may also access the policies in hard copy form at the Covington County School District Central Office.

COVINGTON COUNTY SCHOOLS ADMINSTRATION School Board Members Mr. Terry Bryant Mr. Sammy Herrin Mr. Charles Beasley Mrs. Rene’ Shoemaker Mr. Lynn Smith

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Administrative Staff – Central Office

Dr. Arnetta Crosby, Superintendent 601-765-8247 [email protected]

Susan Deen, Federal Programs 601-765-8247 [email protected]

Babette Duty, Curriculum Director 601-765-8247 [email protected]

Gwen Hitt, Test Coordinator 601-765-8247 [email protected]

Rachel Rogers, Special Programs 601-765-2104 [email protected]

School Contact Information

Collins Elementary 601-765-4383

Carver Middle 601-765-4908

Collins High 601-765-3203

Covington County Alternative 601-765-1465

Covington County Vo-Tech 601-765-8253

Hopewell Elementary 601-765-8568

Mt. Olive Elementary 601-797-3159

Mt. Olive High 601-797-3939

Seminary Elementary 601-722-3355

Seminary Middle 601-722-4510

Seminary High 601-722-3220

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Table of Contents

Abstinence Plus Sex Education 44 Access to inappropriate material 61 Access to school activities 45 Alternative School Placement 20,25 American Disability Act 504 Accommodation 52 Plan Arrival and Departure Times 13 Asbestos 43 Attendance – MS Compulsory School Law 12 Attendance Policy 13 Bullying/Harassment 55 Bus conduct 69 Bus Discipline Penalties 22 Bus Loading Zones 70 Bus rules and regulations 70 Cafeteria Regulations 28 Care of school property 46 Check Out Procedure 60 Check Policy 46 Cheerleader Policy 27 Cell Phone Policy 62 Child Find 51 Children’s internet protection act 63 Comparability Policy 50 Concessions 28 Corporal Punishment 17 Correspondence Courses 42 Credit Recovery 33 Cyber stalking/threatening/intimidation 56 Defacing/destroying school property 60 Delivery Procedure 46 Discipline Ladder for Dress Code Violations 24 Discipline Ladder for Conduct Violations 20 Discipline Procedures under IDEA 2004 17 District Enrollment 10 District Parent Involvement Policy 48 Dress Code 23 District Right to Recover Damages 23 Early Dismissal for bad weather 54 Early Release (Seniors) 33 Education, supervision and monitoring 62 Electronic information resources and network 67 services ELL Grading Policy 29 English Language Learners 49 Enrollment from Non-public or Home School 10

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Excused Absences 14 Expulsion 19 Extracurricular Activities 26 Field trips 45 Free college planning assistance 43 Functional behavior assessments 50 Gifted Education 53 Grades K-12 discipline ladder 20 Graduation Options(new for 9th graders 18-19) 33 Guidance 42 Harassing/bullying 55 Homeless 49 Honor roll 30 Honors graduates 38 Inappropriate network usage 62 In-school suspension 18 Interference with operation of a school bus 69 (MS Code 37-41-2) Internet acceptable use policy 61 Internet recognition of students 66 Least Restrictive Environment 52 Literacy Based Promotion Act 31 Lost and found 46 Majority to minority transfers 11 Make-up policy 14 Medication policy 44 Mississippi scholars 39 Multi-tiered support system 51 Nine weeks average 30 Notice of non-discrimination 2 Observations/screenings/assessments 50 Parent internet access user agreement 65 Parental permission for media release 65 Parental Permission for ….Directory Infor. 66 Parking vehicles on campus 11 Participation in extracurricular activities 26 Penalties for absences 15 Possession of cellular phones or other 67 electronic devices Procedures for expulsion of IDEA students 19 Procedures for processing a complaint 55 Progress reports 30 Promotion and retention 31 Publications 47 Rank in class 39 Readmission/denial of admission 26 Report Cards 30 School Calendar 3 School lice policy 44

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School lunch collection procedures 28 School violence/threats of 53 violence/intimidation Searches and questioning 59 Secret society/gang association 56 Sexual harassment 56 Social networking websites 67 Solicitations 46 Sports/extracurricular activities 26 Star student 30 State-owned textbooks 46 Student and community safety 53 Student checkout/early dismissal 60 Student conduct policy 15 Student Directory Information 12,65 Student due process rights 16,25 Student exemption policy 32 Student grievance policy 24 Student insurance program 27 Student internet access agreement 63 Student records 12 Student suspension policy 18 Takeout/delivery 28 Tardy policy 15 Teacher conference 45 Title I 47 Transportation 69 Unexcused absences 14 Uniform grading system 29 Unsafe school option 61 Use/possession of drug 58 Virtual online courses 41 Visitors on campus 60 Weapons free school and controlled substance 57 act Youth court 60

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DISTRICT ENROLLMENT Any student seeking to enroll in the Covington County School District must attend the school in the attendance zone in which the student’s residence is located. A student’s place of residence is that location where the student physically resides, full time, each weekday/night, and weekends. CCSD Policy JBC

Enrollment Procedures: 1. The parent or legal guardian shall accompany the student to the school for enrollment and make school officials aware of any physical, mental, emotional, or other condition which might influence day-to-day functions or relationships at school. 2. No student is to be enrolled until two proofs of residence and grade placement have been verified. A minimum three day (3) waiting period may be observed in order to allow for the obtainment of prior school records. The following documents will be acceptable for residency verification: filed homestead exemption application form, mortgage documents or property deeds, apartment or home lease, utility bills, driver’s license if physical address is the same as on another form of proof, voter precinct identification, automobile registration, Child Protective Services (CPS) documentation stating a person that lives in the school zone (not the parent) has custody (likely a foster parent.) PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING BEGINNING IN 2018-2019 - Documentation provided to the school by Parent/Guardian/Other Adult: (Minimum of two required for all students---cannot have P. O. Box address) Filed Homestead Exemption, Mortgage Documents Or Property Deed, Apartment or Home Lease, Utility Bill ( 2 Current bills) Acceptable: electricity, water, or gas, Affidavit and Personal Visit by a Designated School Official

A student seeking enrollment or transferring into the school zone shall be enrolled once the parent or legal guardian furnishes the principal/counselor with the following: certified copy of child’s birth certificate, Mississippi immunization certificate, completed enrollment form, two proofs of residency, social security number, and official transcript or withdrawal form from the last school attended. The Superintendent of Education my deny admission as required by Mississippi Code if the documents are not provided. ** Each student must re-enroll in the Covington County School District each year. Proof of residency is required on an annual basis. Any student who fits the definition of “Homeless” or “EL” will be enrolled immediately, thereby waiving the residency, etc. documentation.

ENROLLMENT FROM NON-PUBLIC OR HOME SCHOOL All students seeking to transfer from any school, public or private, within or outside of the boundaries of the State of Mississippi, to this school district may be required to take a test to determine the grade and class to which the pupil will be assigned at the time of pupil transfer. A Psychometrist or certified teacher shall administer the test(s) to such pupil(s) as shall apply to transfer to or enrollment in such public school. Such test or tests shall be administered within thirty (30) days after the filing of each application transfer. Notice of

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the giving of such test shall be given to the applicant not less than five (5) days prior to the date of the administration of such test. No enrollment of a pupil shall be complete until the test has been given and the pupil is assigned according to the grade and class for which the test shows he is best suited. Pending the administration of the test herein, provided for, and its grading and assignment based thereon the Superintendent of Covington County School District or his designee may assign the pupil temporarily to a grade and class comparable to that in which the pupil would have been had the pupil continued in the school from which the transfer was being made.

MAJORITY TO MINORITY TRANSFERS Pursuant to orders in its federal desegregation case, the Covington County School District allows a student, either black or white, who attends a school in which his/her race is in the majority to choose another school where his/her race is in the minority. Bus transportation will be provided. For students interested in a majority to minority transfer, contact the Covington County School District Central Office for an application. Applications must be submitted no later than June 1st of the current year. CCSD Policy JBCD

REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO AUTOMOBILES  Student parking permits must be obtained during the first week the student enrolls in school.  Cars are required to be parked upon arrival and all occupants are required to immediately leave the car upon parking on campus. Students are not permitted to return to or sit in their cars during the school day.  Use of a vehicle to attend the Career and Technical Center by students is a privilege and is only approved on an individual basis by the CTE director and school principals. Abuse of the privilege may result in revocation of privilege and/or disciplinary action taken by the Career and Tech administration. Examples of discipline include, but are not limited to: reports of improper or illegal driving between the student’s home school and the Career and Technical Center, skipping class, tardiness to Career and Tech class, etc.  The cost of the student car permit is $10.00. The administration will reserve the right to confirm ownership of the vehicle. All parking permits will be issued based upon space available. Proof of license and insurance is required for all students to drive a vehicle on campus and to be granted a parking permit.  In the event there is sufficient reason to suspect an illegal act, motor vehicles may be subject to search.  Cars must be parked in a designated area established by the school principal or director and they cannot be moved during the school day.  Cars drivers must not leave until a designated time. All passengers of the vehicle must be properly dismissed from school as well.  Permits shall be withdrawn upon the first evidence of reckless driving.  Any student who fails to abide by the above regulation will lose his/her privilege of bringing an automobile to school and may be suspended. All rules apply to motor-bikes also.  The school assumes no responsibility for any accidents or injury sustained by those providing their own transportation to and from school, for any passengers who are riding with those providing their own transportation, or for any student who leaves school without proper legal permission and authorization.

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STUDENT RECORDS Covington County School District policy states that students, parents, and legal guardians will have access to their school records. The school will notify parents and adult students annually of the following: 1. The type of records kept; 2. The procedure for inspecting and copying these records; 3. The right for interpretation: 4. The right to challenge data thought to be erroneous, the procedures for correcting or expunging erroneous data or inserting a rebuttal statement; 5. The right to lodge a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if mandates are not adequately implemented. Additionally, the district will notify parents annually of the district’s policy on the collection or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose, including arrangements to protect student privacy that are provided by the agency in the event of such collection, disclosure, or use. The educational records include all materials directly related to a student that a school maintains. Records and notes maintained by a teacher, administrator, school physician, or school psychologist for his or her own use, and which are not available to others are exempted from this definition. The school will require a prior written consent before information other than directory information, (see SB Policy JRA) may be divulged to third parties. An exception to this rule exists for school district employees who have legitimate interests in viewing the records, as well as officials in other schools in which the student seeks to enroll. CCSD Policy JR

ATTENDANCE – MS STATE LAW The Mississippi Compulsory School Attendance Law (37-13-91) defines “compulsory school age child” as a child who has attained or will attain the age of six (6) on or before September 1 of the calendar year and who has not attained the age of seventeen (17) years on or before September 1 of the calendar year; and shall include any child who has attained or will attain the age of five (5) year on or before September the 1st and has enrolled in a full-day public school kindergarten program. HB 1530 re-defines the compulsory school attendance law and requires that the Superintendent report immediately to the local school attendance officer any compulsory

school-age child who has not enrolled within 15 calendar days after the first day of the school year. In addition, the Superintendent or the designee will report any child with five (5) unexcused absences to the school attendance officer for appropriate consultation between the officer and the parent/guardian. When the child has 12 unexcused absences, the law provides that a charge of “Educational Child Neglect” may be brought against the parent/guardian. Potential punishment for this charge is a fine up to $1,000 and/or one (1) year in jail. The school attendance officer is available to assist the parent in having the child understand the importance of getting an education through our public school system. Any parent, guardian, or custodian of a school aged child subject to the provisions of this section who refuses or willfully fails to perform any of the duties imposed upon him or her under this section, shall be punished in accordance with the provisions of MS Code Section 97-5-39.

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ATTENDANCE POLICY There are two types of absences: Excused and Unexcused. When a student receives 5, 10, or 12 unexcused absences he or she will be turned into the compulsory school attendance officer. HB 1530, effective July 2013, provides that any compulsory aged child who is absent 37% of the instructional day must be considered absent for that day. An absence with a note from a parent or doctor may be excused. No more than 3 days in a row can be excused by a parent note. No more than 3 parent notes can be submitted per semester. No more than 5 total days per semester can be excused by parent note. All doctors’ excuses and parent notes must be turned in to the school office no later than the 2nd day after the student returns to school. Chronic and long-term medical problems will be addressed on an individual basis and a request for a Section 504 Accommodation plan may be made. The 504 Coordinator can be reached at 601-765-2104. Parents will need to notify the principal and counselor if a chronic or long-term medical condition occurs and provide the school with medical documentation of such condition.

In grades 7-12, absences are documented period by period, therefore if a student misses a portion of a class period or block, an excuse will be required for that period or block that was missed. Any student that is late or tardy, must go to the office and check in. This will prevent an unexcused absence from occurring. If a student in kindergarten through eighth grade has twenty (20) unexcused absences, he/she may be subject to retention. If a student in the ninth through twelfth grade has twenty (20) unexcused absences, he/she will not earn credits for the subjects in which the absence has occurred. This policy will be enforced. If a student is passing the course, a notation of Incomplete (I) may be recorded on the report card and transcript. The parent will be notified of excessive absences and advised that continued absences may result in the student’s failure to be promoted or to receive credit for a course. Extenuating circumstances may exist and consideration for appeal will be given on a case-by-case basis; however, the facts concerning the absences must be well documented and submitted to the principal for review. Decisions for appeal will be determined by the school’s leadership team or an administrative committee. CCSD Policy JBD

Any student that has been absent for 20 or more consecutive days and for whom all efforts of the District Attendance Officer have been exhausted will be dropped from enrollment and marked as a Drop Out. CCSD Policy JBAC

It is of the utmost importance that a current address and phone number be on file for all parents/guardians. This is especially important in the light of all correspondence that is necessary once truancy becomes an issue. It is a parent/guardian’s responsibility to update that mailing address, physical address and phone number during the registration process every year.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIMES Students are not to arrive on the school campus prior to 30 minutes before the beginning of the school day, when teachers report for duty. The school will not assume responsibility for any students arriving on school grounds prior to the stated time unless they are transported by school bus. Students are to leave school campus at the end of the school day unless they are

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participating in a supervised school activity and are under the direct supervision of a teacher or other school staff.

EXCUSED ABSENCES Under Mississippi Law (37-13-91), in order for an absence to be determined to be EXCUSED, satisfactory evidence of the excuse must be provided by the student, including a note from the parent or a physician’s excuse. Please note that parental notes for excused absences are limited to three per semester. Evidence may include: 1. An absence resulting from illness or injury of the student which prevents the student from being physically able to attend school. 2. An absence resulting from the death or illness of a member of the immediate family (parent, grandparent, sibling, etc.) 3. An absence resulting from medical or dental reasons. 4. An absence resulting from a student’s attendance at the proceedings of a court or an administrative tribunal. 5. An absence due to a required religious observance or event. 6. An absence resulting from an authorized school activity. 7. An absence that requires a student to be isolated for health purposes. 8. An absence whereby the principal determines that conditions warrant that the absence be excused, which includes pre-approval of the absence by the principal. Any student that has been absent for 20 or more consecutive days and for whom all efforts of the District Attendance Officer have been exhausted, will be dropped from enrollment and marked as a Drop Out. CCSD Policy JBD

MAKE-UP POLICY Students will be allowed to make up work missed following an EXCUSED absence by contacting the teacher whose class was missed. The make-up work may be done under the following provisions: the students has no later than the second day after he/she returns to obtain the excused absence and see the teacher for make-up assignments; time permitted for work to be made up will be in direct proportion to the days missed; make-up tests will be given at the discretion of the teacher with ample time for the student to study; tests and assignments made prior to a student’s absence are due upon the student’s return to school; work missed for school- sponsored activities should be made up prior to the activity or made up in direct proportion to the days missed. All make-up work must be completed within the 9 week term that it was missed. If a student fails to appear for an appointment to make up work without being excused by the teacher, he/she may forfeit the right to make up the work. Extenuating circumstances may be appealed to the principal. NOTE: In compliance with the purpose and intent of the Compulsory Attendance Law, absences which result from an out-of-school suspension will not count toward loss of credit. CCSD Policy JBD

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES According to Mississippi State Law (37-13-91), an “unlawful” or unexcused absence is one for which the student does not have a valid excuse. Extenuating circumstances may be appealed to the principal. CCSD Policy JBD

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PENALTIES FOR ABSENCES A student will not be permitted to take part in any school-sponsored extracurricular competition, event, or practice on the same day that he/she is absent from school for more than 63% of the day. Administrative, school-sponsored, and medical absences are exceptions. Any student who exceeds the maximum number of unexcused absences may not be allowed to participate in special events including, but not limited to, awards ceremonies, class activities, graduation, etc. CCSD Policy JBD

PERFECT ATTENDANCE Any student who receives 3 unexcused tardies or early dismissals will not be eligible for Perfect Attendance recognition.

TARDY POLICY Mornings: Students arriving to school after 8:30 must enter with a doctor’s excuse. 7:45 – 8:10 student will be counted tardy, 8:11 -8:30 parent must bring student into the building, 8:31 and after a parent must present a doctor’s excuse for the student to be admitted with a tardy. After the school day has begun: Covington County School district expects students to be on time to each class; therefore, tardies are recorded for students who fail to do so. To be on time, a student must be in the classroom when the tardy bell starts to ring. In order to promote the concepts of timelines and responsibility in students, the following policy shall be followed:  Students are allowed one (1) unexcused tardy and two (2) excused tardies per semester. Tardies after that will be considered excessive and may result in either corporal punishment and/or suspension.  Students are expected to be in classes promptly. Students are not allowed to be out of class without permission. Between Classes Students shall not be tardy from one class to another without permission and a hall pass. If the student is tardy, he/she will be referred to the office before being admitted to class. He/she will be assigned detention or administered corporal punishment on each occasion. If the student continues to be tardy, it is possible he/she will be subject to further disciplinary action. CCSD Policy JBD

CHECK OUT PROCEDURE Refer to Student and Community Safety

STUDENT CONDUCT POLICY The Covington County School Board has the authority to establish reasonable and necessary rules governing the conduct of students. The school board recognizes that discipline is a primary responsibility of the teachers and that teachers should employ disciplinary methods that are appropriate and effective. Teachers and administrators will administer discipline within the guidelines established by the board and other specific procedures related to student behavior as may be adopted from time to time. Students will be under the jurisdiction of these policies and rules while going to, remaining at, and returning from school. In order for rules infractions by students to be treated equitably and consistently, the board has approved a

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disciplinary action procedure and schedule. The implementation of student discipline policy rests with all levels of the management/instruction/staff team. The students of Covington County School District shall be expected to conduct themselves so that the rights and privileges of others are not violated. Students shall respect constituted authority and conform to school rules, regulations, and provisions of law which apply to the conduct of juveniles and minors as specified by the Mississippi Code. Significant interruptions of the educational process resulting from overt disrespect shown by students to faculty members, unruly student behavior, and vulgar or otherwise discourteous actions will not be permitted. General Policies and Procedures  Administrators and teachers shall hold students accountable for their conduct in school, on the way to and from school when transported on school buses, at any school- sponsored event in or out of town, and while riding any school owned vehicle or at any school related activity or event. Also included is conduct occurring on property other than school property or other than at a school-related activity or event when such conduct by a pupil, in the determination of the school superintendent or principal, renders that pupil’s presence in the classroom a disruption to the educational environment of the school or a detriment to the best interest and welfare of the pupils and teachers of such class as a whole (MS Code 37-7-301). Any school employee may correct any type of student misconduct concerning any of the above.  The failure of any student to recognize and adhere to verbal statements of correction of school employees will be cause for discipline.  Teachers are expected to handle most of the disciplinary problems that arise. In the event, however, that a student will not adhere to the corrections and warnings of a teacher, counselor, bus driver, etc., the student may be referred to the asst. principal or principal for disciplinary action. In each instance when this is done, a written and signed referral form will be submitted by the referring teacher explaining a problem.  Each student referred to the assistant principal and/or principal for disciplinary reasons shall be given a fair and prompt hearing, when requested, before any action is taken. Any misbehavior/unsatisfactory conduct by a student not specifically stated in this handbook will be addressed by the school principal on a case-by-case basis. Punishment for misconduct may include corporal punishment, in-school suspension, after school detention, referral to the alternative school, expulsion, or other appropriate punishment as determined by the administration. The administration has the authority to impose more restrictive punishment in cases of gross disobedience, misconduct, or continued disruption of school. CCSD Policy JD

STUDENT DUE PROCESS RIGHTS School officials have reasonable flexibility in the administration of discipline in order to maintain a safe, effective learning environment. At the same time, in order to preserve a student’s rights and the protection of due process of law, any student shall be given the opportunity for a hearing before appropriate school district officials should he/she or his/her parent/guardian desire to have a hearing. Differences, disputes, and conflicts between students and staff are usually civil matters and not criminal ones. As such, constitutional provisions for the right to legal counsel, trial by jury, power to subpoena witnesses, and comparable safeguards do not necessarily apply to a given situation. Generally, due process for students involves clarifying the roles of the parties involved, giving proper notice, holding hearings (conferences or formal) within the framework of the relationship between school staff and the students, and providing adequate opportunity for the student to state his/her position.

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When a student and/or his/her parent/guardian are dissatisfied with a disciplinary decision imposed by school staff, then the student and/or his/her parent/guardian may appeal. The step-by-step procedures to be used for appealing decisions/actions are: 1. If the appeal concerns an action by a teacher, the appeal is to first be made to the teacher’s supervising administrator. 2. If the appeal concerns an action by a building level administrator, the initial appeal should be made to that administrator. 3. If, after Step 2 no consensus is reached, the appeal may be made to the principal. 4. If, after Step 3 no consensus is reached, the appeal may be made to the district discipline committee. The district discipline committee will render its decision in the matter and submit the same to the superintendent. The superintendent is authorized to accept or reject this decision. 5. If, after Step 4 no consensus is reached, the student or his/her parent/guardian may make written request for appeal to the school board. This request must be made through the use of the proper request form available in the superintendent’s office. The board, in its sole and absolute discretion, will determine whether or not the appeal has merit to be heard by the board. If the board determines that the superintendent’s decision and/or the decision of the discipline committee are final, then such appeal request will be denied and the student and/or his/her parent/guardian shall be notified in writing by the district office. CCSD Policy JCAA

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES UNDER IDEA School officials will have the authority to take disciplinary action in the same manner that they would for regular education students for a total of ten (10) school days during the school year. (These days may be consecutive or cumulative). However, at the end of the ten (10) days, the Local Education Agency is required by law to resume services. Any disciplinary action that exceeds ten (10) days, should apply the following standard to determine if a change of placement has occurred:  The removal is for more than ten (10) days; or  The child has been subjected to a series of removals that constitute a pattern – 1. Because the series of removals totals more than ten (10) days in a school year; 2. Because the child’s behavior is substantially similar to the child’s behavior in previous incidents that resulted in the series of removals; and 3. Because of such additional factors as the length of each removal, the total amount of time the child has been removed, and the proximity of the removals to one another. If a pattern of behavior is manifested the supervising principal should contact the Special Services Office and request that a Functional Behavior Assessment be conducted. Behavior logs should be started by the 5th day of suspension and a request made for an FBA. FBA requests require the signature of the supervising principal as well as parental permission. Manifestation determinations should be done for any suspension that is of a 3 or more day duration. CCSD Policy JDD, JDE

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT Covington County Schools may utilize corporal punishment as a disciplinary measure in order to preserve an effective educational environment which is free from disruption and is conducive to furthering the educational mission of the school district. Corporal punishment will be administered in a reasonable manner and applied only to the student’s buttocks in such manner

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that there will be no permanent effects. The following standards will be followed in the administration of corporal punishments:  Corporal punishment may only be administered by licensed teachers and school administrators.  Any use of corporal punishment will be limited to the administration of no more than 3 licks.  All cases of administration of corporal punishment shall be fully documented.  The principal or teacher shall provide a written explanation of the reason(s) for the corporal punishment administered in the form of a copy of the discipline slip.  Students will be advised that a refusal to take corporal punishment may result in suspension.  Corporal punishment shall not be administered to any other part of a student’s body.  Parents have the right to request that their child not receive corporal punishment, however, it shall be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to present such request, in writing, to the school principal or assistant principal prior to the second Monday of the beginning of each school year. The request will only be valid for the current school year. CCSD Policy JDB

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION At the discretion of the principal, as a last alternative to out-of-school suspension, a student may be placed in detention or in-school suspension, a program designed to keep students working quasi -productively at school while being restricted under disciplinary measures or alternative school. During the time of the in-school suspension program, a student will be totally separated from the normal school environment. Re-entry into the regular school program is based on personal performance and meeting specific requirements of the in-school suspension program. ISS may not be an option at all schools. CCSD offers a district ISS for grades 5-12. CCSD Policy JD

STUDENT SUSPENSION POLICY A suspension is the denial of the privilege of attending school in the district imposed upon any student in the district at the discretion of the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled. Students who are suspended shall not trespass upon any school campus or enter into any school building except for a pre-arranged conference with a principal. Additionally, students under suspension shall not attend any day or night functions. Students under suspension shall not ride a school bus. Students will be allowed to make up work. When unacceptable behavior cannot be corrected by the resource/staff of the school, the school board authorizes the school principal or his/her designee to suspend any student for violation of any rule, or regulation, or for any other act of misconduct or insubordination as a final effort to influence the student’s future behavior. Parents may be required to bring students to school to meet with the principal on the first morning following the suspension, prior to being allowed to re-enter classes. In accordance with MS Code 37-11-53, a school district’s discipline plan may provide that as an alternative to suspension, a student may remain in school by having the parent/guardian, with the consent of the student’s teacher(s), attend class with the student for a period of time specifically agreed upon by the reporting teacher and school principal. If the parent/guardian does not agree to attend class with the student or fails to attend class with the

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student, the student shall be suspended in accordance with the code of student conduct and discipline policies of the school district.

As provided under 37-23-133 "Educational services for children with disabilities who have been suspended or expelled from school shall be provided based on the requirements of IDEA, applicable federal regulations and state regulations." CCSD Policy JD

EXPULSION

Expulsion is defined as the denial of the right to attend school or school sponsored activities as approved by the Covington County School Board.  Any student may be expelled for committing any of the offenses described under “Student Conduct Policy”.  After being suspended three (3) times during the same school year, a student may, upon committing the fourth offense, be recommended for expulsion by his/her principal to the superintendent.  A Disciplinary Review Committee will serve as the body designated by the Covington County Board of Education to provide a due process hearing for a student recommended for expulsion. The parent/guardian and student will be informed of the expulsion procedures, including their right to waive a hearing, by the Disciplinary Hearing Officer.  Said student shall remain on suspension until such hearing is held.  Students under expulsion shall not trespass upon any school campus or enter into any other school building except for pre-arranged conferences with a principal. Additionally, students under expulsion shall not attend any day or night functions. Students under expulsion shall not ride a school bus. Provision of transportation will be determined on a case by case basis.  As provided under 37-23-133 "Educational services for children with disabilities who have been suspended or expelled from school shall be provided based on the requirements of IDEA, applicable federal regulations and state regulations." CCSD Policy JD, JDE

PROCEDURES FOR EXPULSION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS

1. A manifestation determination must be conducted to determine if the behavior is a manifestation of the child’s disability. This must be done as soon as the IEP committee can be convened. 2. If the behavior is not a manifestation of the child’s disability, then the IEP committee can recommend an alternative change of placement for the student or recommend that the process for expulsion commence. 3. At the end of each 45 day period in an alternative setting, the IEP committee must reconvene and make a recommendation to either maintain the current placement or offer an alternative to the current placement. 4. If the behavior is a manifestation of the child’s disability, then the following must take place:

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a. Conduct a Functional Behavior Assessment if it has not already been completed. b. Implement a Behavior Improvement Plan if it has not already been implemented. c. If the Behavioral Improvement Plan is in place, review and modify it as necessary to address the behavior; and d. Return the child to the placement from which the child was removed unless: 1. The offense involved drugs, weapons, or serious bodily injury; or 2. The parent and school agree to a change of placement as part of the modification of the Behavior Improvement Plan. CCSD Policy JDE

PROCEDURES FOR ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PLACEMENT 1. Prior to placement at a separate alternative setting a student must have undergone a Functional Behavior Assessment and have a Behavior Improvement Plan in place with the exception of the following conditions: a. Student offense involved drugs, alcohol, weapons, sexual indiscretions, or serious bodily injury to self or others. 2. Upon referral, the Disciplinary Review Committee must meet to recommend a change in placement. 3. The maximum duration for an alternative setting is one (1) calendar year. 4. The minimum duration for an alternative setting is forty-five (45) days. CCS Policy JCD

GRADES K –12 DISCIPLINE LADDER When a student is referred to the office, disciplinary actions will be taken according to the following discipline ladder. Depending on the seriousness of the offenses and previous disciplinary record, a student may enter the ladder at a level higher than Step 1 and/or may be referred to the appropriate Youth Services.

It may be necessary to involve the district’s Resource Officer when incidents of a more serious nature threaten the safety and well-being of students, faculty, or visitors and when they are disruptive to the school’s environment. Administrators do not have an obligation to contact the parent/guardian before discipline is administered.

Step 1 1. Student/Principal Conference 2. Parents Notified 3. No referral to office for 10 days will remove student from the discipline ladder

Step 2 1. Student/Principal Conference 2. Parents Notified 3. Loss of Privileges 4. No referral to office for 15 days will remove student from the discipline ladder

Step 3 1. Student/Principal Conference 2. Parents Notified 3. Loss of Privileges

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4. Corporal punishment, 1 day ISS, or 1 day out-of-school suspension (OSS) 5. No referral to office for 20 days will remove student from the discipline ladder

Step 4 1. Student/Principal Conference 2. Parents Notified 3. Loss of Privileges 4. Corporal punishment, ISS, or 2 days out-of-school suspension (OSS) 5. Mandatory at school conference with the principal or asst. principal, parent, and student before the child will be admitted back in school after serving OSS 6. No referral to office for 25 days will remove student from the discipline ladder

Step 5 1. Student/Principal Conference 2. Parents Notified 3. Loss of Privileges 4. 3-5 days out-of-school suspension (OSS) 5. Mandatory at school conference with the principal or asst. principal, parent, and student before the child will be admitted back in school after serving OSS 6. Principal referral to Teacher Support Team for Behavioral Intervention 7. No referral for 30 days will remove the student from the discipline ladder

Step 6 1. Student/Principal Conference 2. Parents Notified 3. Loss of Privileges 4. 3 – 9 days out-of-school suspension (OSS) 5. Mandatory at school conference with the principal or asst. principal, parent, and student before the child will be admitted back into school after serving OSS 6. Student may be recommended for expulsion/reassignment 7. No participation in any school district activity for the remainder of the school year, and no attendance at any school district activity for 9 weeks 8. No referral to office for 45 days will move student from Step 6 to Step 5 on the discipline ladder

Step 7 1. Student/Parent/Principal Conference 2. Nine (9) days out-of-school suspension 3. Recommendation for expulsion/reassignment 4. No participation in any school district activity for the remainder of the school year, and no attendance at any school district activity for 9 weeks

Steps Behavior 2-7 Continued disobedience to school personnel 2-7 Intentional disrespect to school personnel 2-7 Defiance of school personnel and/or procedure 3-7 Immoral or vicious acts *7 Use, sale, transfer, or possession of drugs or alcohol 2-6 Profanity or vulgarity, including obscene gestures 4-5 Leaving school premises without permission

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1-5 Failure to report to class 3-7 Repeated violation of school rules 3-7 Any post on social media outlet by a student during the school day 3-7 Photographing or videoing any school staff or students without permission 4-7 Possession, distribution, or sharing of obscene literature *4-7 Defacing/destroying school property (restitution required) *7 Possession, use, or attempted use of dangerous objects (pocket knives, utility tools, pepper spray, Taser etc.) This list is not an exhaustive list 2-5 Outward displays of affection (hand-holding, kissing, bodily contact, inappropriate actions, etc.) *3-7 Instigate or participate in fighting, wrestling, hitting, or kicking 1-5 Participates in a verbal confrontation with other students 2-6 Steals, appropriates, or converts to own/use the property of another (restitution required) 4-7 Possession, distribution, or use of fireworks of any kind on campus 1-5 Attempt to forge, deceive, cheat, or plagiarize. (student will be given a grade of 0) 2-5 Leaving classroom without permission 2-7 Harassing, bullying, intimidation, or threatening to another student, faculty, or staff *5-7 Physical assault on a student 3-5 Gang related symbols, clothing, etc. 1-5 Dress code violations 4-7 Use, sale, transfer, or possession of tobacco or tobacco products *5-7 Sexual harassment *5-7 Physical assault on faculty or staff 3-7 Sexual misconduct 1-5 Improper use of the internet or electronic educational tools 1-5 Possession/use of outside electronic equipment without the permission of certified staff (e.g. games, CD’s, DVD’s, cell phones, etc.) 2-6 Horseplay which involves physical contact with another student

NOTE: Habitual offenders will be dealt with individually at the principal’s discretion. Offenses marked with an * may be reported to local law enforcement and/or Youth Services agencies. CCSD Policy JD

BUS DISCIPLINE PENALTIES OFFENSE NUMBER MINIMUM PENALTY MAXIMUM PENALTY Corporal punishment and/or First Offense Warning and parent loss of bus privileges contacted Parent contact, suspension of Second Offense bus privileges (3 – 5 days) or Loss of bus privileges corporal punishment Parent contact, suspension of Third Offense bus privileges (3 – 5 days) or Loss of bus privileges corporal punishment

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Parent contact, suspension of Fourth Offense bus privileges (3 – 5 days) or Loss of bus privileges for remainder of year remainder of year K-4: corporal punishment K-6: Suspension Fights Grades 5 – 12: Grades 7 – 12: Alternative First: 3 – 5 days suspension School placement from school and 10 days suspension of bus privileges Second: loss of bus privileges Grades 7 – 12: Alternative for remainder of school year School placement and a 5 day out of school suspension

Profanity Corporal punishment or 1 – 5 Loss of bus privileges for days suspension from school remainder of year and/or Alternative School placement

Threats towards driver Loss of bus privileges for up Loss of bus privileges and to a calendar year Alternative School placement

CCSD Policy JCD, JGF, JCDAD

DISTRICT RIGHT TO RECOVER DAMAGES

The CCSD will be seeking damages from any student that defaces damages, or renders unusable any piece of property to the full extent of the law. This includes school buses. The following is an excerpt from the CCSD Policy JD Student Discipline.

“The school district shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not to exceed $20,000 plus necessary court costs from the parents of any minor under the age of 18 years and over the age of six, who maliciously and willfully damages or destroys property belonging to such school district. However, this section shall not apply to parents whose parental control has been removed by court order or decree. The action authorized in this section shall be in addition to all other actions that the school district is entitled to maintain and nothing in this section shall preclude recovery in a greater amount from the minor or from a person, including the parents, for damages to which such minor or other person would otherwise be liable.”

DRESS CODE The Covington County School District has adopted a dress code and each student who attends school within this district will be expected to follow the guidelines. The following items are NOT allowed:  Extreme make up ● Visible body piercings  Patches or emblems ● Oversize jewelry  Clothing that exposes the midriff ● Extremely tight clothing  See-through clothing ● Ripped, ragged, or torn clothing  Floor length coats (NO trench coats) ● Pajamas or gowns

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 No tank tops or camis  Mini-skirts, halter tops, or shorts that are shorter than fingertip length  Hats, caps, sweatbands, bandanas, do-rags, or skull caps. No hoods. (Head coverings worn for warmth can be worn on the bus only)  Garments which are considered underclothing, to include leggings  Clothing that is worn during exercise/activity for comfort  No gym shorts, no joggers in grades 7-12  Lack of undergarments  Oversize clothing of any type  Any item which promotes violence, gangs, racism, witchcraft, Satanism, Neo-Nazism, or paraphernalia that is deemed disruptive or inappropriate by school administration  Leggings are allowed with shirts that are fingers tip length The following types of footwear are NOT allowed:  Shower shoes, house shoes, slippers, beach shoes, rubber shoes, shoes with cleats, or shoes with wheels. The school’s administration reserves the right to make any decision necessary for the best interest of a student, student body, and/or which will protect the image of the school and community. This includes making a determination that a particular item of clothing or accessory is inappropriate for a student or students to wear based on the culture of the school. The main focus of a school administrator is to insure that learning is occurring; if a student’s attire is preventing learning, the student will be expected to not wear the item again at the request of the administrator or be subject to discipline ladder for “defiance of school personnel and/or procedure.” CCSD Policy JCDB.

DISCIPLINE LADDER FOR DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS Grades K – 12th

1st Offense Warning and written notice or verbal parent contact 2nd Offense Warning and written notice or verbal parent contact 3rd Offense Corporal Punishment and/or ISS 4th Offense ISS and/or OSS 5th Offense OSS 6th Offense Possible referral to alternative school

DUE PROCESS

STUDENT GRIEVANCE POLICY Any student of this district who believes he or she has been discriminated against, denied a benefit, or excluded from participation in any education program or activity on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, or disability may file a written complaint with Dr. Arnetta Crosby, Superintendent of Education. The Superintendent may cause a review of the written

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complaint to be conducted. The Superintendent is required to notify the Youth Court and local law enforcement agencies of any unlawful activity. CCSD Policy JCAA

When a student and/or his/her parent/guardian are dissatisfied with a disciplinary decision imposed by school staff, then the student and/or his/her parent/guardian may appeal. The step-by-step procedure to be used for appealing decisions/actions are: 1. If the appeal concerns an action by a teacher, the appeal is to first be made to the teacher’s supervising administrator. 2. If the appeal concerns an action by a building level administrator, the initial appeal should be made to that administrator. 3. If, after Step 2 no consensus is reached, the appeal may be made to the principal. 4. If, after Step 3 no consensus is reached, the appeal may be made to the district discipline committee. The district discipline committee will render its decision in the matter and submit the same to the superintendent. The superintendent is authorized to accept or reject this decision. 5. If, after Step 4 no consensus is reached, the student or his/her parent/guardian may make written request for appeal to the school board. This request must be made through the use of the proper request form available in the superintendent’s office. The board, in its sole and absolute discretion, will determine whether or not the appeal has merit to be heard by the board. If the board determines that the superintendent’s decision and/or the decision of the discipline committee are final, then such appeal request will be denied and the student and/or his/her parent/guardian shall be notified in writing by the district office. CCSD Policy JCAA

ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL PLACEMENT The Covington County School District offers an Alternative School Program in compliance with MS Code section 37-13-92. In accordance with state law, a student may be assigned to the alternative school program for a variety of reasons as set forth in said code section. Any compulsory-school-age child whose presence in the classroom, in the determination of the school superintendent or principal, is a disruption to the educational environment of the school or a detriment to the best interest and welfare of the students and teacher of such class as a whole, may be placed in the alternative school program. A student may be placed in the alternative school by mutual agreement by parents, principal, and alternative school principal through the Disciplinary Referral Process. Any student placed in the alternative school is not

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allowed to attend any school functions or athletic events. This includes all Covington County School District events at home or away. Should they violate this, they can be charged with trespassing in the appropriate court. Any senior who is assigned to the alternative school may or may not be allowed to participate in graduation ceremonies depending on the discipline committee ruling. Students in the alternative school are subject to search at any time before entering the instructional area. Provision of transportation will be decided on a case by case basis. CCSD Policy JCD

READMISSION/DENIAL OF ADMISSION A student who has been expelled from this District must apply and be approved for readmission to the regular school program. The application for readmission shall be in a form provided by the superintendent for such purpose. The application for readmission should be made at least two (2) weeks prior to the conclusion of the expulsion period. If the expulsion is for an unspecified period of time, application for readmission may be made at any time after one year from the date of expulsion. When the student is enrolled in another regular school program or participating in an alternative school or similar program during the expulsion period and at the time of application, application may be made any time after the conclusion of specified expulsion period or after one year from the date of expulsion. The procedures set forth in Policy JCAA – Due Process shall apply to requests for readmission. The Covington County School Board may grant readmission or admission upon a documented statement showing that the student has participated in successful rehabilitative efforts including but not limited to progress in an alternative school or similar program. The parents of students to whom this may apply, should contact the alternative school director. CCSD Policy JDG, JDD, JDE

STANDARDS FOR PARTICIPATION IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The participation standards required by the Mississippi High School Activities Association extracurricular activities will be for all students in grades nine through twelve. For these standards, “Extracurricular” is defined as: “Organization-sponsored student activities which require administrative provision and student involvement outside the time allocation for instruction.” This would specifically apply to organized practice or competition which requires additional input of students’ time outside the normal school day. Extracurricular activities will be those activities presently governed by the MHSAA. CCSD Policy IDFA, JCDAB, JS

ACADEMIC RULES FOR STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN ACTIVITIES The MHSAA eligibility rules require each student participating in MHSAA sanctioned competitions to make “satisfactory progress toward graduation.” According the Mississippi law, a student must maintain a grade point average of at least 2.0 or a “C” average. This will be measured at the conclusion of the first semester using the average of all the courses the student is taking. Students who do not have a 2.0 or “C” average for the first semester will be ineligible

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for the second semester. At the end of the school year, each student’s grade point average for the year will be assessed. This assessment will reflect the average for the entire year using the final grades for each course. If the student does not have a grade point average of at least 2.0 or a “C” average, he/she will become ineligible for the fall semester. Students may attend summer school, extended school year, take correspondence classes, participate in credit recovery programs and take advantage of other related options to establish a 2.0 or “C” average to remain eligible. Students may complete these programs prior to the first day of the next year or the next semester. A student athlete may become eligible for the second semester only once during his/her high school career if he/she fails the year end average the previous year, by achieving at least an overall 2.0 or “C” average at the end of the first semester. CCSD Policy IDFA, JCDAB, JS Seventh and Eighth grade participation: Students in the seventh and eighth grades participating at the high school level for fall eligibility must: be promoted; have passed the four core courses (English, math, science, and social studies); and the average of those four core courses must be a “C” or above. For spring semester eligibility, the student does have to be passing all four core courses; but the average of those four core courses must be a “C” or above. Summer school or extended school year grades will replace the grade for a failed course in the spring semester GPA.

CHEERLEADER POLICY All students who wish to try out for cheerleader must meet the following requirements: 1. Physicals – Physicals are required after Cheerleaders are selected. 2. Closed Tryouts – Tryouts will be closed except for a panel of judges and school officials. Judges are to be selected by school officials. 3. A district-wide judge’s score sheet will be used in all schools. 4. To be eligible for cheerleader, a minimum score of 96 is required. 5. Entry fee for tryouts – a minimum fee of $35.00 (non-refundable) will be paid before any candidate can attend the clinic or tryout for cheerleader. Once a student has been selected to the cheerleader squad, all funds collected for the uniform, camps, and equipment are non-refundable. 6. No student will be allowed to try-out for cheerleader, unless previous cheerleader balance has been cleared. 7. If a cheerleader is dismissed from the squad, resigns, or quits during the year, he/she will be ineligible to try-out for cheerleader the following year. 8. If a student is expelled or assigned to the Alternative School during the school year and he/she accumulates enough demerits to be dismissed from the cheer squad, he/she will not be allowed to try out for the following year. 9. If a student has been a cheerleader for three (3) consecutive years in grades nine through eleven, they will not have to try-out before the judges to be a cheerleader their senior year. However, they will have to participate in all practices and activities leading up to the try-outs. 10. Cheerleader try-outs will be filmed. CCSD Policy JHFAA

STUDENT INSURANCE PROGRAM All students participating in the band or any sports activity are required to be covered by insurance. Students participating in varsity athletics shall be required to submit a statement signed by the parent indicating that the school is not to be held responsible for injuries sustained during participation in the varsity sport. The student shall purchase accident

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insurance and shall present a statement signed by his/her parent/guardian that the family has coverage outside the school setting. Participation in extracurricular activities is voluntary. This school district does not furnish student insurance, nor does it sell insurance or act as agent for any insurance company or local insurance agency. Student shall not be allowed to participate in school sponsored activities where there is reasonable risk of injury or death without the parent/guardian furnishing a signed statement certifying that health/accident insurance coverage exists on the student. CCSD Policy EG

CAFETERIA REGULATIONS 1. The parent/guardian of any student having special dietary needs should contact the cafeteria manager for assistance. 2. Any student having a special dietary need (milk/food allergy, etc.) must have a medical statement on file in the cafeteria manager’s office. This statement must be updated annually. 3. No one other than cafeteria employees shall be allowed in the kitchen during the preparation and serving hours except persons essential to the operation of the cafeteria. Student and adult meals can be paid online at www.myschoolbucks.com. This link can also be accessed through the school website. There is a fee to use this service that is charged by myschoolbucks.com

CONCESSIONS Federal regulations prohibit the sale of certain food items one hour before lunch is served. Therefore, no concession will be sold one hour before lunch is being served. Concessions can be sold after the cafeteria stops serving students.

TAKEOUT/DELIVERY Food from vendors, (restaurants, stores, etc.) cannot be delivered to students during the school day. Students are allowed to bring their lunch from home. All food brought from home must be in appropriate containers. No packaging that represents a food vendor can be brought into the lunchroom.

SCHOOL LUNCH COLLECTION PROCEDURES To comply with Federal Regulations pertaining to School Lunch Collection Procedures, the Covington County School Board has adopted the following: 1. Charging of meals is discouraged: a maximum of five days’ worth of charges is allowed. 2. Personal checks will not be cashed from School Food Service funds. Federal Management Circular 796-1 (RS 2) lists bad debts as any non-allowable expenditure of Federal Funds therefore, losses on meals charged or bad checks cannot be paid from Child Nutrition funds. Board policy is “School Food Service cashiers shall accept checks only for the amount of food service purchased.” Payment for lunch should not be combined with payment for other school expenses. CCSD Policy JG, JGHR

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UNIFORM GRADING SYSTEM The following grading scales will be used by all instructional personnel of the Covington county School District. No optional graded work shall be given any student unless all students of the same class are given the same opportunity. Any student refusing to do optional work shall not be penalized. Lowering a student’s grade as a means of discipline is not acceptable. CCSD Policy IHA

Grades K – 6 Grades 7 – 12 A 93-100 A 90-100 B 85-92 B 80-89 C 75-84 C 70-79 D 70-74 D 65-69 F 0-69 F 0-64

ENGLISH LEARNERS GRADING POLICY All students indicating that a language other than English is spoken in the home on the annual Home Language Survey will be assessed using the LAS Links Placement Test. EL services will be provided for all students who qualify. Report cards for all EL students scoring Beginning, Early Intermediate, or Intermediate on the LAS Links English Language Proficiency Test will receive a hand written report card. The student software package does not support the EL grading scale. EL students scoring Proficient or Above Proficient on the LAS Links English Proficiency Test will receive a computer generated report card because they are subject to the uniform grading scale as outlined above. CCSD Policy IK

The following grading scale will be followed for all EL students:

Grades K-5 Levels 1-3 (Beginning, Early Intermediate and Intermediate) 65-100% Passing (S=Satisfactory) 46-64% Passing (N= Needs Improvement) 1-45% Unsatisfactory (Documentation Necessary)

Levels 4-5 (Proficient and Above Proficient) a. Common criteria for assigning grade according to the standard grading scale as outlined in the student handbook b. “EL” noted on the report card

Grades 6-12 Levels 1-3 (Beginning, Early Intermediate and Intermediate) 50-100% Passing (With necessary accommodations and modifications) 32-49% Passing (N= Needs Improvement)

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0-31% Unsatisfactory

Levels 4-6 (Proficient and Above Proficient) a. Common criteria for assigning grade according to the standard grading scale as outlined in the student handbook b. “EL” noted on the report card

NINE WEEKS AVERAGE Grades K – 12: ALL GRADES MUST TAKE 9 WEEKS TESTS. 1. Daily grades shall be averaged together to count ¾ of the nine weeks average. 2. Nine weeks exams count ¼ of the term grade. 3. The nine week’s average will reflect a minimum of eight (8) grades. 4. In grades 7-12 nine weeks tests will be cumulative. A project cannot be substituted for a cumulative nine weeks test.

PROGRESS REPORTS Progress reports are issued to students in the middle of the nine week term. Progress reports will reflect the average of a minimum of four (4) grades.

1st Nine weeks Progress Report September 6, 2018 2nd Nine Weeks Progress Report November 15, 2018 3rd Nine Weeks Progress Report January 31, 2019 4th Nine Weeks Progress Report April 11, 2019

REPORT CARDS 1st Nine weeks Report Card October 18, 2018 2nd Nine weeks Report Card January, 11, 2019 3rd Nine weeks Report Card March 21, 2019 4th Nine weeks Report Card May 24, 2019

HONOR ROLL Grades 1 – 12 Superintendent’s Honor Roll – Any student making all A’s Principal’s Honor Roll – Any student making all A’s and B’s

STAR STUDENT STAR Student Requirements are set by the Mississippi Economic Council and are not governed by the CCSD. To be eligible for the STAR Student Honor, a student may be a regularly enrolled senior or an approved dually enrolled student in an accredited public or private high school and or an accredited post-secondary institution. The student must be completing his/her last year of work and must be eligible to receive a diploma in the current school year. The student must have an ACT score of at least 25 and an overall average of 93 or above in selected subjects in the ninth, tenth, eleventh, and first-semester twelfth grades.

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Selection of the STAR Student 1. Determine which senior has the highest score on the ACT. The ACT must have been taken before December 31st, the year prior to the Education Celebration. *Only permanent-record-label ACT scores on file in the high school office. 2. Verify that the student with the highest ACT score meets the minimum requirements for a STAR Student – minimum ACT of 25; minimum average of 93. Grades in the ninth, tenth, eleventh, and first-semester twelfth grade are used to determine the STAR Student’s average. Only the following subject areas are to be included; English, Foreign Language, Math, Science, and Social Science. 3. If your school has more than one senior with an ACT of 35 or above and an average of 93, designate each as a STAR Student. 4. In the event of a tie on the ACT score for students scoring 34 and below, please use the following steps to break the tie: Step 1: Total ACT Test Scores (English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Reasoning) for each student involved in the tie. Select the student having the highest sum of these test scores and the minimum 93 average on designated courses. Step 2: If the tie still exists, name as STAR Student that senior with the highest overall scholastic average on selected subjects in specified years. Step 3: If the tie is unbroken, use the first-semester senior year scholastic average as the deciding factor. Step 4: Should a tie still exist, compare scholastic average for prior years until the tie is broken. Step 5: If the student who has the highest ACT score does not have an overall overage of at least 93, he or she cannot be named as STAR Student. Selection of the STAR Teacher: The STAR Student will be asked to designate his or her STAR Teacher. The STAR Teacher should be one of his or her elementary or secondary classroom teachers (active, former, or retired). The teacher selected is, in the STAR Student’s opinion, the person who has made the greatest contribution to the student’s scholastic achievement. Educational Celebration: Each STAR Student and STAR Teacher will be honored at the Mississippi Economic Council’s Education Celebration in the spring. MEC will provide certificates to all STAR Students and STAR Teachers. STAR Hall of Fame: The STAR Hall of Fame honors teachers who have been named STAR Teacher ten (10) times. Fifty-nine teachers have been inducted in the Hall of Fame since 1985.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION It is the philosophy of the Covington County School District that promotion be considered on an individual basis and decisions on promotion shall be contingent on what is best for the individual pupil and the well-being of the group. Promotion decisions will be applied to pupils on an individual basis and based primarily on the student’s performance in academic classes. Retention shall be used only when it is to the academic advantage of the student. Under no circumstances shall a pupil be retained for extra-curricular purposes. CCSD Policy IHE

LITERACY-BASED PROMOTION ACT Beginning with school year 2014-2015, Senate Bill 2347 requires that all third grade students must demonstrate “basic level” reading proficiency in order to be promoted to fourth grade. This bill also requires that written notification be provided to

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parents/guardians of students in grades kinder through third (K – 3) who have fallen behind grade level in reading skills. K – 3 students who do not demonstrate reading proficiency will be provided intensive interventions designed to help students achieve basic reading skills. A student may not be assigned a grade level based solely on age or any other factor that constitutes social promotion. CCSD Policy ICHI

PROMOTION THE PROMOTION RETENTION POLICY FOR K-2 WILL BE SENT HOME THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL YEAR 2018-2019 WITH ALL STUDENTS ALONG WITH A LETTER THAT REQUESTS A PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE STATING THAT IT HAS BEEN READ AND UNDERSTOOD.TEACHERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR KNOWING AND IMPLEMENTING THE PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY. Refer to Policy IHE in the Covington County School District Board Policies for the promotion retention policy.

Grades 3rd – 6th Mastery Level of 70%

Grade 3: In order for a student to be promoted, he/she must score a “basic level” reading proficiency on the 3rd grade reading gate assessment.

In order for a student to be promoted, he/she must be on grade level and not have an average below 70 in reading or math and not have an average below 70 in two or more other subjects (Language Arts, Science, Social Studies).

Grades 7 – 8 Mastery Level of 65%

In order for a student to be promoted in grades seven (7) and eight (8), he/she must not have a grade average below 65 in two (2) or more major subjects (math, language arts, science, social studies). If a student’s average in math is below 65, a team made up by the principal, counselor, and teachers will review the student’s grades to determine if he/she is ready for the next level of math. The team will use progress monitoring data and teacher input to make the determination.

Grade Placement in High School Grade placement in grades 9 – 12 shall be determined by the accumulation of Carnegie credits according to the following guidelines:

9th 8 credits or less 10th 9 – 15 credits 11th 16 – 21 credits 12th 22 or more credits

STUDENT EXEMPTION POLICY

All students take nine weeks exams in grades K-12. Exemptions are allowed only for 4th term nine weeks exams under the following:

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Student must have an average of 90-100 on student’s yearly average Student may have no more than 2 absences for a school year and an average of 85 or above on student’s yearly average

If a student is eligible for exemption, he/she may elect to take the exam as a means of improving his/her grade average. Please note, that in such a case, the student’s grade average will not be lowered as a result of taking the test.

CREDIT RECOVERY

To be eligible for the credit recovery program, students must meet the following criteria: Have a minimum score of 50 in the subject. To be eligible for credit recovery in Algebra I, Biology I, English II, or US History a student must have a minimum grade of 50 and have passed the subject area test in that area. All grades will be verified using the SAMS program. Students will not be allowed to enroll in a credit recovery course in a class they failed due to absences. Subjects offered will be determined by student needs. Upper classmen and in-district students will be given preference. In order to earn credit in the credit recovery program, each student must complete the required number of hours of computerized instruction, daily homework, and projects. For one year courses 40 hours are required. For one semester courses 20 hours are required. The highest grade awarded for credit recovery courses will be a 65. In order to receive the credit, the credit recovery course must be completed with 75 percent mastery. Only one Carnegie unit can be recovered during the summer. CCSD Policy IDCAB

EARLY RELEASE

Students(SENIORS) who have not met the Mississippi postsecondary ACT remediation benchmarks of 17 in English and 19 in Math or SAT equivalency or the Silver level on the ACT WorkKeys for the CTE endorsement must meet ALL 4 of the following requirements for early release • have the required 2.5 GPA • have passed or met all MAAP assessments requirements for graduation • be on track to meet diploma requirements • be concurrently enrolled in Essentials for College Math and/or Essentials for College Literacy

GRADUATION OPTIONS CHANGES

The following graduation options are required by the Mississippi Department of Education and the Covington County School District beginning with the freshman class of 2018-2019. All incoming ninth graders in 2018-2019 will select an endorsement that may be changed with parental permission.

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Mississippi Diploma Options Begins with incoming freshmen of 2018-2019 Mississippi has two diploma options: The Traditional Diploma and the Alternate Diploma. The Traditional Diploma is for all students. The Alternate Diploma is an option for students with a Significant Cognitive Disability (SCD).

TRADITIONAL DIPLOMA OPTION Carnegie Curriculum Area Required Subjects Units English 4 • English I • English II Mathematics 4 • Algebra I

Science 3 • Biology I

Social Studies 3½ • 1 World History

• 1 U.S. History • ½ U.S. Government • ½ Economics • ½ Mississippi Studies

Physical Education ½

Health ½

Arts 1

College and Career Readiness 1 • Must occur in the student’s junior or senior year, or in the student completion of a 4-year sequence.

Technology or Computer Science 1

Additional Electives ½

Total Units Required 24

Requirements Student should identify an endorsement area prior to entering 9th grade. Endorsement requirements can only be changed with parental permission. For early release, students must have met College or Career Readiness Benchmarks (ACT sub scores 17 English and 19 Math or earned a Silver level on ACT WorkKeys or SAT equivalency sub scores). Alternately, a student must meet ALL of the following: Have a 2.5 GPA Passed or met all MAAP assessments requirements for graduation On track to meet diploma requirements Concurrently enrolled in Essentials for College Math or Essentials for College Literacy

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Recommendations • For early graduation, a student should successfully complete an area of endorsement. • A student should take a math or math equivalent course the senior year.

ALTERNATE DIPLOMA OPTION

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Traditional Diploma Endorsement Options Students pursuing a Traditional Diploma should identify an endorsement prior to entering 9th grade. There are three endorsement options: Career and Technical, Academic, and Distinguished Academic Endorsement. CAREER AND TECHNICAL ENDORSEMENT

Carnegie Curriculum Area Units Required Subjects English 4 • English I • English II Mathematics 4 • Algebra I

Science 3 • Biology I Social Studies 3½ • 1 World History • ½ Economics • 1 U.S. History • ½ Mississippi Studies • ½ U.S. Government

Physical Education ½

Health ½

Arts 1

College and Career Readiness 1 • Must occur in the student’s junior or senior year, or in the student completion of a 4-year sequence.

Technology or Computer Science 1

CTE Electives 4 • Must complete a four-course sequential program of study Additional Electives 3 ½

Total Units Required 26

Additional Requirements • Earn an overall GPA of 2.5. • Earn Silver level on ACT WorkKeys. • Earn two additional Carnegie Units for a total of 26. • Must successfully complete one of the following: ∙ One CTE dual credit or earn articulated credit in the high school CTE course ∙ Work-Based Learning experience or Career Pathway Experience ∙ Earn a State Board of Education approved national credential

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DISTINGUISHED ACADEMIC ENDORSEMENT

Curriculum Area Carnegie Units Required Subjects English 4 • English I • English II Mathematics 4 • Algebra I + two (2) additional math courses above Algebra I

Science 4 • Biology I + two (2) additional science courses above Biology I Social Studies 4 • 1 World History • ½ Economics • 1 U.S. History • ½ Mississippi Studies • ½ U.S. Government Physical Education ½

Health ½

Arts 1

College and Career 1 • Must occur in the student’s junior or senior year, or in the Readiness student completion of a 4-year sequence. Technology or 1 Computer Science Additional Electives 8 • Must meet 2 advanced electives of the CPC requirements for MS IHLs Total Units 28

Required Additional Requirements • Earn an overall GPA of 3.0. • Courses must meet Mississippi IHL CPC-recommended requirements. • Earn national college readiness benchmarks on each subtest established by ACT of 18 in English and 22 in Math or SAT equivalency subscore. • Earn four additional Carnegie Units for a total of 28. • Must successfully complete one of the following: ∙ One AP course with a B or higher and take the appropriate AP exam ∙ One Diploma Program-IB course with a B or higher and take the appropriate IB exams ∙ One academic dual credit course with a B or higher in the course

March 2018

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CLASS RANKING AND VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN, SPECIAL HONORS, AND HONORS A Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be named for each graduating class. The student with the highest numerical grade average in the appropriate Carnegie unit courses in grades 8 – 12 will be selected as Valedictorian. The student with the second highest numerical grad in the appropriate Carnegie unit courses will be selected Salutatorian. The numerical averages will be calculated to two decimal places. The Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be announced at progress report time of the 4th term. Numerical Grade Point Averages (GPA) will be computed on term grades for Carnegie unit courses taken from the 8th grade through the 3nd term of the twelfth (12th) grade year. In order to qualify for Valedictorian and Salutatorian, a student must be enrolled and have received grades in a Covington County School the first nine weeks of his or her junior year and maintain continuous enrollment in that high school until graduation.

In order to qualify for Val, Sal, and Special Honors/Honors, a student must take the prescribed courses listed below and have a numerical average as indicated for Rank in Class:

Special Honors: 95 – 100 Honors: 90 – 94.99

Any Advanced Placement Course or Dual Credit and/or advanced course based on availability at each high school will be WEIGHTED AT 1.06

Please note the following:

1. All weighted courses taken prior to SY 14-15 will be weighted at the 1.02 or the 1.06 weight based on previous policy. Contact school counselor for details. 2. AP and Accelerated course offerings may vary from year to year and school to school as certified teachers are available to teach them. 3. Any of the weighted courses taken by correspondence or summer school will not be eligible for calculation toward Val/Sal, Honors or Special Honors, or rank in class. 4. Classes taken through Mississippi Virtual Public Schools are allowed as part of the Honors Curriculum. Please see the last pages of this handbook for the required courses for gaining high school diplomas in Mississippi.

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RANK IN CLASS

Rank in class is the method of comparing one student academically with all other students in the same grade level. Rank in class will be determined by the (GPA) grade point average on selected subjects. The Valedictorian and Salutatorian will automatically be ranked number one and two, respectively, in the class. Only the courses listed below in Sections I – IV will be used in computing Rank in Class.

Students must take

 English I and English II and two (2) of the following: English III, English IV, AP English, and English Comp I, English Comp. II Any additional English course higher that English II as noted in Approved Courses for Secondary Schools.  The following are required history courses: US History, US Government/Economics, Mississippi Studies and World History  One (1) of the following: Intro to World Geography AP European History, AP World History, AP World Geography, Western Civ. I Western Civ. II. Any additional history course offered and found in the Approved Courses for Secondary Schools.  Biology I, and three (3) of the following: Physics, AP Biology, Chemistry, Health Science I, Health Science II, AP Physics, Biology II, AP Chemistry, Human Anatomy and Physiology. Any additional science course higher than Biology I as noted in the Approved Courses for Secondary Schools.  Algebra I and three (3) of the following: Algebra II, Geometry, Advanced Math, AP Calculus, College Algebra, Calculus Dual Credit. Any additional math course higher than Algebra I as noted in the Approved Courses for Secondary Schools.

Students not meeting requirements for Special Honors or Honors will not be ranked higher than those who do meet the requirements. (For example, if 22 students meet the requirements for Special Honors/Honors, the rank for the students not completing the course requirements for Special Honors or Honors would begin at 23.) All course work taken by each student will be computed for the final Quality Point Average (QPA), which will be used for college admission, scholarship qualifications, and all other purposes other than Rank in Class. Students enrolled in non-diploma special education programs are not included in the Rank in Class computation. Please see the last pages of this handbook for the required courses for gaining high school diplomas in Mississippi. CCSD Policy IHEA

MISSISSIPPI SCHOLARS The Need for Rigorous Coursework The State Scholars Initiative is based on research showing a strong link between the academic rigor of students’ high school course of study and post-secondary degree completion. For example, 40 percent of students who took Algebra II in high school earned a bachelor’s degree, compared with 23 percent of those who stopped with geometry. Mississippi Scholars is designed to help students succeed, not just those who want a bachelor’s degree. Today, those who plan to enter career pathway programs at two-year colleges and technical institutes are

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finding they have to complete rigorous requirements for entry into high demand programs like nursing, dental hygiene, computer science, and engineering technologies.

Benefits to Students The State Scholars Initiative represents an important step to ensure all students’ access to a quality education. With information and encouragement from business leaders and community volunteers, middle and high school students are encouraged to choose the Scholars course of study. As a result of graduating as a Mississippi Scholar, students are more likely to be:  Ready for post-secondary education without the need for remediation  Academically prepared for high tech, military, job training, and apprenticeship programs  Provided with meaningful school and community recognition. Course of study for seniors of school year 2015 and later: (entering ninth graders in 2006-2007 and thereafter; to meet new requirements for IHL Admissions Policy). One credit = (1) one-half credit = (1/2) Four English Language Arts credits to include: English I, II, III, and IV  Four Mathematics credits to include: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and one Carnegie Unit of comparable rigor and content from following list: Advanced Algebra; AP Calculus; Discrete Mathematics; Pre-Calculus; Probability and Statistics; AP Statistics; Trigonometry  Four Science credits to include: Biology I; Chemistry I; and any two Carnegie units of comparable rigor and content from the following list: Aerospace Studies; Astronomy; Biology II; Advanced Biology; Biomedical Research; Botany; Chemistry II; AP Chemistry; Organic Chemistry; Genetics; Geology; Human A and P; Marine and Aquatic Science; Microbiology; Molecular Biology; Physics I or II; AP Physics; Physical Science; Zoology; 1 unit for Intro. to Agri-science; 1 unit for Concepts of Agri-science; 1 unit of Science of Agricultural Animals; 1 unit of Agricultural Plants; 1 unit of Science of Agricultural Environment; 2 units for the completion of the 2 course sequence Agri- science I and II; 2 units for the completion of the 2 course sequence Allied Health I and II; 2 units for the completion of the 2 course sequence of Aquaculture I and II; 2 units for the completion of the 2 course sequence of Forestry I and II; 2 units for the completion of the 2 course sequence Horticulture I and II; 2 units for the completion of the 2 course sequence Plastics and Polymer Science I and II.  Four Social Studies credits to include: World Geography/Mississippi Studies; World History; US History; Government/ Economics.  One Art credit.  Two Advanced Elective credits to include: Foreign Language I and II or a 5th math or 5ht science of higher rigor  Additional Expectations – 40 hours of Community or Volunteer Service during 4 years of high school; 16 ACT Composite score (Overall Score); 2.5 cumulative high school GPA; 95% school attendance during 4 years of high school (excused/unexcused absences); 3 letters of recommendation (one from each of the following – principal, guidance counselor, and business/community leader for students with more than 4 in-school suspension(s); and no out of school suspensions.

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MISSISSIPPI TECH MASTER PURPOSE Develop a program under the Mississippi Scholars umbrella to encourage students to pursue and perform well in a tech-prep course of study, recognizing their achievements at graduation, as the Mississippi Scholars program currently recognizes those who pursue a college-bound course of study, with a particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). IMPLEMENTATION Use the Mississippi Scholars distribution channel and network to quickly ramp up the Mississippi Scholars Tech Master program. Curriculum - The Mississippi Department of Education Basic 21 Carnegie Unit Career Pathway Curriculum using 4 electives was used as the foundation for the curriculum along with feedback from the Tech Master Council to develop the requirements. MISSISSIPPI SCHOLARS TECH MASTER CURRICULUM Mississippi Tech Master Students are preparing for their future careers. Employers are concerned with ensuring that both potential and incumbent employees have the skills necessary to thrive in today’s workplace. Current MDE Career Pathway Track - Academic Course of Study: (4 Credits) English *(3 Credits) Math - Algebra I - Math above Algebra I (Course has to be related to program of study) **Geometry Mandatory (3 Credits) Science – Biology I and 2 courses above Biology I (3 Credits) Social Studies - American History, Government/MS Studies are required (1 Credit) Computer (½ Credit) Health or PE *(2.5) Electives of your program of study *4 CTE Credits in the same area of study – Must take 4 CTE credits - Non-negotiable Must have 21 minimum credits - Students can go the 21 or 24 credit route allowing time for internship.

Additional Requirements for Recognition of Mississippi Scholars Tech Master Listed Below: 40 hours of community or volunteer service during high school pilot year Minimum of 18 ACT composite score (overall score) or Minimum 36 ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test) 2.5 high school GPA 95% school attendance during high school years No out-of-school suspension

Must attain a passing score, as established by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), on the Mississippi Career Planning and Assessment System (CPAS2) or a passing score on an MDE approved industry certification assessment. Mississippi Scholars Tech Master must complete any remaining State-Mandated high school graduation requirements. Dual credit courses are acceptable.

VIRTUAL ONLINE COURSES Mississippi Department of Education sponsors online courses for high school students. Covington County Schools will accept credits towards graduation that are earned by the MDE sponsored online courses. Students must get the principal’s approval prior to registering for the

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class. Please see the last pages of this handbook for the required courses for gaining high school diplomas in Mississippi.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES Students should expend every effort to pass all courses during the regular school term. Should a student fail to earn a credit for a course during the regular term, the work should be made up immediately. Students will be allowed to earn only one unit through correspondence for the following reasons: 1. A student has failed that course. 2. A senior needs one more credit to graduate. 3. A student has transferred in and is lacking one or two required units. 4. A student with extenuating circumstances.

Summer School is not offered in the Covington School District. Students that attend a summer program provided by another school district must have that attendance approved by the Superintendent of the Covington County School District prior to enrolling in the program. If approval is given, only one unit may be earned during a single summer school session. No more than four (4) units earned in summer school programs may be counted toward graduation. Covington County Schools strictly adhere to the state guidelines for summer school and correspondence guidelines, “the commission looks with disfavor upon accelerating pupils for the purpose of early graduation.” Please see the last pages of this handbook for the required courses for gaining high school diplomas in Mississippi.

GUIDANCE Guidance services shall be available for every student in the district. These shall be supervised at all grade levels by a staff member designated by the superintendent and shall include school psychological services, guidance services, testing services and in-service programs in guidance and psychological areas. Guidance shall include aiding the student in discovering and measuring his/her capabilities; abilities and real interests; in helping him/her obtain adequate and accurate information about schools, courses, occupations and careers, and in helping him/her solve personal and academic problems. Students and parents will be encouraged to avail themselves of the help of guidance personnel.

SENATE BILL 2423 EFFECTIVE July 1, 2014 School guidance counselors; qualifications; define comprehensive counseling services; code of ethics. (1) Beginning with the 2014-2015 school year, the assignment of K-12 Professional School Counselors to particular schools within the district shall be at the discretion of the local school board with the following restrictions: (a) No individual shall be employed as a Professional School Counselor without a minimum of a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling, or in an emergency situation, an appropriate certification as determined by the Commission on Teacher and Administrator Education, Certification and Licensure and Development; and (b) Professional School Counselors shall provide the following comprehensive counseling services: (i) Academic and personal/social counseling;

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(ii) Use multiple student data sources to help students make informed academic and career choices; (iii) Career and educational counseling; (iv) Individual and group counseling (large/small); (v) Crisis intervention and preventive counseling; (vi) Referrals to community agencies; (vii) Educational consultations and collaboration with teachers, administrators, parents, and community leaders; (viii) Educational and career placement services; (ix) Follow-up counseling services; (x) Conflict resolution; and (xi) Professional School counselors must spend a minimum of eighty (80%) percent of their contractual time to the delivery of services to students as outlined by the American School Counselor Association. Delivery of services is the direct service provided to students, parents, school staff, and the community which are interaction between Professional School Counselors and students. These direct services may include: 1. School counseling core curriculum to help students attain the desired competencies and to provide all students with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills appropriate for their developmental level. 2. Individual student planning. 3. Responsive services designed to meet student’s immediate needs and concerns in regard to social/personal issues. May include counseling in individual, small-group setting, or crisis responses. 4. Indirect student services including referrals for additional assistance, consultation and collaboration with parents, teachers, other educators, and community organizations. (2) Professional School Counselors shall abide by the American School Counselor Association Code of Ethics. (3) The State Department of Education may adopt regulations regarding the activities of the Professional School Counselor as are not inconsistent with this section.

FREE COLLEGE PLANNING ASSISTANCE

www.gettocollege.org

Federal Student Aid www.fafsa.ed.gov

Fastweb Scholarship Search www.fastweb.com

IHL Scholarship Database www.mississippiuniversities.com

ASBESTOS The Covington County School Board has adopted an asbestos management plan. This plan has been submitted to the Mississippi State Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency. By following the plan, the school district intends to maintain an asbestos free environment for anyone using school buildings in the district. Anyone have any questions

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regarding asbestos may contact the school’s principal. The Central Office maintains a copy of the management plan that is available to the public for inspections during school hours.

SCHOOL LICE POLICY House Bill 154

An act to provide that the county health department shall be notified if a student has had head lice on three consecutive occasions while attending school; to provide that the department shall instruct the child’s parents or guardians on how to treat and prevent the recurrence of head lice; to provide that the department shall charge the child’s parents a fee to recover its costs; to provide that the child may not attend schools until the local health officer certifies that the child is free of head lice; and for related purposes. The “No Nit Policy” letter will be sent to parents. The principal or his/her designee shall notify the county health department of the recurring problems of head lice. After treatment, the principal or his/her designee must check the student before he/she will be allowed to attend class. CCSD Policy JGCA

MEDICATION POLICY School personnel may not exceed the practice of first aid in dealing with pupil injuries and sickness, and only qualified personnel shall administer first aid to pupils. Medication shall be provided to a student by school personnel ONLY with the written request and consent of the student’s parent/legal guardian, and by following CCSD Policy JGCD and JGCDA.

ABSTINENCE PLUS SEX EDUCATION Adopted May 14, 2012

The Covington County School District believes that every student has the right to accurate information concerning the prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The School Board is committed to fostering community partnerships that educate both students and parents about this important topic. The Covington County School District seeks to affirm its commitment to creating healthy and responsible teens in the Covington County School District by fully complying with the MS Code 37-13-71 and by adopting educational programs designed to help students and parents take action to reduce rates of births and sexually transmitted infections and integrating such programs into already established classes, as well establishing principles, guidelines, and strategies for implementing effective sex education programs, referred to in state law as “Abstinence-Plus” education programs. Abstinence-Plus Education is a grade and age appropriate school curriculum that includes every component of the following, plus any other programmatic or instructional components approved by MDE:  Social, psychological, and health gains to be realized by abstaining from sexual activity, and the likely negative psychological and physical effects of not abstaining;  Harmful consequences to the child, the child’s parents and society that bearing children out of wedlock is likely to produce, including the health, educational, financial, and other difficulties the child and his/her parents are likely to face, as well as the inappropriateness of the social and economic burden placed on others;  Unwanted sexual advances are irresponsible and teaches how to reject sexual advances and how alcohol and drug use increases vulnerability to sexual advances;

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 Abstinence from sexual activity before marriage, and fidelity within marriage, is the only certain way to avoid out-of-wedlock pregnancy, sexually-transmitted diseases and related health problems;  Current state law related to sexual conduct, including forcible rape, statutory rape, paternity establishment, child support, and homosexual activity; and  A mutually faithful, monogamous relationship in the context of marriage is the only appropriate setting for sexual intercourse;  Any other age and grade appropriate material such as contraceptives (excluding instruction and demonstration on the application and use of condoms), the nature, cause and effects of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS, along with a factual presentation of the risks and failure rates. Each school providing instruction or any other presentation on human sexuality in the classroom, assembly or other official setting shall be required to provide no less than one (1) week’s written notice thereof the parents of children in such programs of instruction. The written notice must inform the parents of their right to request the inclusion of their child for such instruction or presentation. The notice must also inform the parents of the right, and the appropriate process, to review the curriculum and all materials to be used in the lesson or presentation. Upon the request of any parent, the school shall excuse the parent’s child from such instruction or presentation, without detriment to the student. CCSD Policy ICG

NCLB Requirement: NCLB prohibits the use of funds authorized under this Act to be used to: develop or distribute material, or operate programs or courses of instruction directed at youth, that are designed to promote or encourage sexual activity, whether homosexual or heterosexual; provide sex education or HIV-prevention education in schools unless that instruction is age appropriate and includes the health benefits of abstinence, and; operation of program of contraceptive distribution in schools. (MS Code 37-13-171; 37-13-173; 37-13-175)

TEACHER CONFERENCE Teachers are available for a conference during their preparation time. Please call the office to set up a conference with the teacher. Expect a teacher to contact a student’s family each 9 weeks to build a relationship based on communication.

FIELD TRIPS As part of the educational service of the school, students may be taken on field trips. Students will not be allowed to participate in a field trip without a signed permission slip. All field trips must be approved by the school administration and must be supervised by regular classroom teachers. All out of state field trips must be approved by the Covington County School Board. Before any adult that is not a school employee may serve as a chaperone he/she must have a background check and finger printing process conducted by CCSD School Resource Officer at own expense. CCSD Policy IFCB

ACCESS TO SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Teachers and coaches must have appropriate liberty to conduct their classes and practice sessions without hindrance or impairment from non-school personnel and parents of their students. For this reason, parents should recognize that any number of school activities require a closed environment; thus making it necessary to exclude parents at particular times from

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being in the presence of their children and teacher during such activities (e.g. academic tests, certain athletic tryouts, or practice sessions.)

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY If any pupil shall willfully destroy, cut, deface, or injure any school building, equipment or other property or the property of other persons, he/she may be suspended or expelled and his parents/guardians will be liable for all damages. MS Code 37-11-19. The school officials are authorized to sign a criminal complaint and to press charges against perpetrators of vandalism against school property, and are further authorized to delegate, as they see fit, authority to sign such complaints and to press charges. CCSD Policy JD

STATE-OWNED TEXTBOOKS Textbooks for pupils are furnished by the state and are issued at the beginning of the school year on a loan basis. Parents are required to sign a book card, assuming full responsibility for the books and their proper care until they have been returned to the school. Pupils should see that their books are not abused, as a fine will be charged for any state-owned book that shows unnecessary wear. In case of a lost book, the list price of the book must be paid before another book will be issued. Textbook fees must be paid before final grades are issued.

LOST AND FOUND Personal articles, as well as textbooks, are often lost at school. When such things are found, they should be turned into the principal’s office, where they are kept until the rightful owner identifies and claims them. Items left unclaimed will be disposed of by the principal.

PERSONAL CHECK PROCEDURE 1. Schools shall not accept any check for cash from students or staff. 2. Schools shall not accept personal checks for fund-raising products or events sponsored by clubs or schools, nor for school related items such as pictures, club dues, lab fees, , etc.

DELIVERY PROCEDURE Due to disruption in classrooms and interruption in the educational process caused by items being delivered to students, deliveries for students ARE NOT accepted at Covington County Schools. This rule applies to all deliveries from florists, gift shops, etc. This also includes food deliveries.

SOLICITATIONS The solicitations for donations and contributions from students shall be restricted to drives approved by the Board and sponsored by the school. Any outside organizations wishing to distribute flyers or other materials to students may do only with the approval of the principal. Before any club, class, or organization undertakes a fund-raising project, approval must be secured from the principal. CCSD Policy JK

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PUBLICATIONS All school publications and news articles released to the media and the public are to have the approval of the principal before their release and/or publication. The distribution of any publications within the school, developed by the school’s students and/or staff shall have the approval of the principal prior to their distribution. As far as possible, the school paper and yearbook shall be self-supporting and advertising may be used in support of them.

TITLE I The goal of the Title I program is to help every child attain a high-quality education. This help is provided through additional teachers and assistant teachers, more training for school staff, extra instructional time in key subject areas, and a variety of teaching methods and materials. Each year the federal government sends each state a basic grant for its Title I program. The state then sends Title I money to the school districts based on their number of low-income families. The local school district develops programs that supplement the regular classroom instruction and works to involve parents in all aspects of the program. For more information, contact the Title I Director at 601-765-8247. DI Title I Parent Engagement Procedures DISTRICT: Covington County School District SECTION: L - Organizational Relations POLICY CODE: LA - Parental Engagement

PARENTAL ENGAGEMENT POLICY

It shall be the policy of the Board of Education to ensure that parents are involved in the planning, design, and implementation of the Title I Program in the district and shall provide such reasonable support for parental engagement activities as parent may request in accordance with current federal regulations (Section 118 or Improving America’s Schools Act of 1994 H.R. 6). This school board reaffirms the school district’s strong commitment to the role of parents in their children’s education and to effective, comprehensive parental engagement. This policy it is intended to include parents, guardians, and other family members involved in supervising the child’s schooling. Parental/family engagement in a child’s learning is a critical link to achieve academic success and to promote a safe and disciplined learning environment.

Schools and families will work together to ensure that the educational process includes quality learning at home, in school, and in the community.

The following steps will be taken to achieve this goal:

1. The superintendent or designee will assess the status of parental engagement, review existing policies and procedures, and develop necessary regulations and procedures to support this policy, including a review of staff and budget support.

2. The Board of Education will support parental engagement by seeking parental input on school system policies, including curriculum, facilities, and funding issues.

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DISTRICT PARENT ENGAGEMENT PROCEDURES It is our belief that parental engagement, interest and guidance are major factors in successful schooling. As such, the Title I Program shall:

1. Confirm that parents are notified in a timely manner that their child is participating in a school wide Title I school. This notification will be done within the first month of the school year. This notification will extend to any incoming transfer student’s parent that their child is enrolling in a school wide Title I school and their opportunities to participate in planning and policy revisions. 2. Confirm that schools keep parents informed of Title I school wide activities through newsletters and Title I parent committees. 3. Convene an annual meeting to discuss with parents the programs and activities provided with Title I funds. The discussion will include informing parents of their right to consult in the planning, design, implementation, and improvement of the Title I school wide site. Further, it will solicit parents’ input and will provide parents an opportunity to establish ongoing communications among parents, teachers, and Title I officials. 4. Conduct parent/teacher conferences with parents to discuss methods of instruction that parents can use to strengthen their child’s skills while emphasizing shared responsibility among parents, students, and school. 5. Arrange meetings at a variety of times to maximize opportunities for parents to participate in school-related activities. 6. Provide parents with progress reports and report cards reporting their child’s/children’s progress on a consistent on-going basis. 7. Notify parents that they may request to see the professional qualifications of their children’s classroom teachers and, if applicable, paraprofessionals qualifications at any time. 8. Inform parents if their child’s teacher is out for four or more consecutive weeks and if their child has been assigned to and taught by a teacher who is not highly qualified. 9. Work with Parent Teacher Organization leadership to ensure parental input. 10. Work with businesses, organizations, and other government agencies which, by their policies and activities, can provide support and assistance for parental engagement efforts. 11. Inform parents of available activities and/or training that will offer materials and suggestions for helping children with their homework and will include opportunities for learning about various topics at parents’ request. 12. Identify and publicize programs related to parental engagement 13. Inform parents of GED programs that exist for adult learners. 14. Provide compacts at each school that will require a commitment from the teacher, parent, and student defining their personal responsibilities for student learning. 15. Develop methods to accommodate and support parental engagement for all parents with special needs including those with limited English proficiency and individuals with disabilities. 16. Ensure, to the greatest extent possible, that all information sent home is in a language and form that parents can understand and that an interpreter is provided when printed documents are not available in the parent’s language. 17. Develop a needs assessment for local schools to use in order to assess the effectiveness of their parental engagement efforts. 18. Provide parents with an opportunity to submit dissenting views to the LEA if a school site’s school wide program is not acceptable to them. LEGAL REF.: P.L. 103-382 (Improving America’s Schools Act)

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ENGLISH LEARNERS

The Covington County School District will provide a program of language instruction to students who have limited English proficiency. Students who meet one or more of the following criteria shall be identified as being limited in English proficiency: 1) Was not born in the United States or whose native language is a language other than English; 2) Comes from a home in which a language other than English is used most for communication; 3) Is a Native American of Alaska or who is a native resident of the outlying areas and comes from an environment where a language other than English has had a significant impact on individual’s level of English language proficiency; 4) Is migratory and whose first native language is other than English and comes from an environment where a language other than English is dominant; or 5) Has sufficient difficulty speaking, reading, writing, or understanding the English language to deny him/her the opportunity to learn successfully in classrooms where the language of instruction is English or to participate fully in our society.  Each registration packet for every school will contain a Home Language Survey.  Upon receiving a completed Language Survey, the registrar will verify if any language other than English is spoken in a student’s home.  The registrar will forward copies of all language surveys for those identified students to the EL coordinator the same week that students are enrolled.  The Home Language Survey will then be placed in the student’s cumulative folder.  The contact information for the Covington County Schools EL Coordinator: Susan Deen, Covington County Schools, P O Box 1269, Collins, MS 39428.  The EL Coordinator will inform the EL instructor and schedule language screening for the student.  The screening will identify the student’s level of English proficiency and a schedule for services will be designed based on that level.  If a student is shown to be proficient and require no services based on the screener, none will be provided.  Parents may opt out of services if they choose.  All documents that contain information for parents will be provided whenever possible in their native language or will be interpreted during a parent conference.  Registrars should contact the EL coordinator to arrange for an interpreter to be present during registration process.  Enrollment in school should not be delayed for any EL students based on lack of documentation (birth certificate, social security cards, etc.)  All Covington County Schools students will be given access to all programs including gifted programs, special education, and extracurricular activities. CCSD Policy IK

“How to Identify Homeless Children and Youth” (722 (g) (1) (B) of the McKinney-Vento Act) The definition of homelessness will be included in all student handbooks beginning in school year 2009-2010 for access by all employees and parents. The Federal Programs Director will conduct an informational meeting with faculty at each school at the beginning of every school year beginning on 09-10. This meeting will include all staff that comes into contact with students. The information provided will include the definition of homelessness, Enrollment Basics, Academic Placement and Support, Supporting Mental Health and Academic Success, and Resources from the National Center for Homeless Education. The Federal Programs Director will place flyers and posters in all local laundry mats and doctors’

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office waiting rooms each year. The posters will provide the definition of homelessness and the contact numbers needed to access help. Beginning in February 2009, a reporting form will be included in the current Title Reporting Packet for counselors to complete at the end of each 9 weeks. The Federal Programs Director will annually report to MSIS all students who are identified as homeless. CCSD Policy JQN

SCHOOL LEVEL REPORTING CHAIN  Counselors will be reminded each nine weeks by the Federal Programs Director via email to report all homeless possibilities to the Federal Programs Director. The definition will be shared in the email.  The counselor will report to the principal any identified students.  The counselors will inform the Federal Programs Director using the Homeless report.  Any student new to a school will be allowed to register without delay even if documents are not available such as: birth certificate, Social Security Card, Immunization record, and proof of residency.

COMPARABILITY POLICY To meet the comparability requirements contained in Title I Assurances, it shall be the policy of the Covington County School District to adhere to the following: 1. Maintain equivalency among schools in the allocation of teachers, administrators, and auxiliary personnel. 2. Maintain equivalency among schools in the provision of curriculum materials and instructional supplies. 3. Maintain a district-wide salary schedule. 4. Allocate all resources to schools on an equitable basis based upon the projected student enrollment for the ensuing school year, the grade level of the school, the unique needs of the specific school community and the instructional program to be served. The superintendent or the designee shall develop procedures for compliance with this policy and shall maintain records that are updated bi-annually documenting the district’s compliance with this policy. CCSD Policy GABE

OBSERVATIONS/SCREENINGS/ASSESSMENTS District personnel may conduct the following observations/screenings/assessments without obtaining written parental consent when a student is not being successful in the regular education program: 1. Speech/Language Screening 4. Behavioral Observation/Checklists 2. Hearing and/or Vision Screening 5. Functional Behavior Assessments 3. ADD or ADHD checklists 6. Universal Screening If an outside individual or entity contracts with a local educational agency for the purpose of performing an observation in order to make recommendations of possible changes in a child’s IEP, a report of the observation/recommendations shall be submitted to the local educational agency. The local educational agency shall notify the parent upon receipt of this report.

FUNCTIONAL BEHAVIOR ASSESSMENTS The 1997 IDEA requires behavioral assessments in circumstances where an individual’s behavior impedes his/her learning or the learning of others. Covington County Schools employs behavioral specialists. These individuals have a background in psychology and counseling and

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are trained in behavior assessments. The behavior specialists serve grades K – 12 and do not need special permission to enter schools or classrooms for observations. Assessments may be requested by parents, teachers, or administrators. Requests should be made to the Special Education Director at the Special Programs Office in the Covington County Education Center.

MULTI-TIERED SUPPORT SYSTEM Pursuant to meeting the requirement of SB Policy 4300, the following policy has been put into place by Covington County Schools. All schools within Covington County School District will require the following model of three tiers of instruction. Tier 1: Quality classroom instruction based on MS College and Career Readiness Standards Tier 2: Focused supplemental instruction Tier 3: Intensive interventions specifically designed to meet the needs of individual students All teachers within the Covington County School District will use information from progress monitoring to (a) determine if adequate progress is being made by students; (b) identify students as soon as they begin to fall behind; and (c) modify instruction to ensure that students gain essential skills. Progress monitoring will be an ongoing process. If Tier 1 and Tier 2 strategies are unsuccessful, students will be referred to the school level Teacher Support Team (TST). Any student meeting the following criteria may also be referred to TST: Grades K – 3: a student fails one (1) grade; Grades 4 – 12: a student fails two (2) grades; a student failed either the preceding two grades and has been suspended or expelled for more than twenty (20) days in the current school year; or a student scores at the minimal level on any state level curriculum exam. All Tier 3 interventions will be done with integrity; designed to address all deficit areas, be evidence based; implemented as designed by the TST; and supported by data regarding the effectiveness of the intervention. CCSD Policy IDB

CHILD FIND The Covington County School District will provide a free appropriate public education to children ages three (3) through twenty-one (21), with a disability who, by reason thereof, need special education and, as appropriate, related services as defined under Part B of the current Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Mississippi statutes, and State Board of Education policies. A free appropriate public education will be provided to students with disabilities residing within the jurisdiction of the district and who are enrolled in the Covington County School District. These services will be provided at no cost to the parent, meet the standards of the State Board of Education as set forth in State policies and procedures, and in conformity with a student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Preschool students who have been determined to have a disability under IDEA shall be provided a free appropriate public education no later than his/her third birthday. If the student’s birth date occurs during summer months, the child’s IEP Committee shall determine the date when services under the IEP will begin. This date will be no later than the beginning of the next school year.

In accordance with Part B of IDEA regulations, students with disabilities who have graduated from high school with a standard high school diploma are not entitled to a free appropriate public education following receipt of their diploma. Provision of a free appropriate public education will continue for a student with a disability up to the day of the student’s twenty-

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second (22nd) birthday if the student is enrolled in the district and if the IEP Committee deems it appropriate. FAPE will also be available for students who are suspended or expelled from school.

Either the parent of a child, a public agency, or TST team may initiate a request, in writing, for an initial evaluation to determine if a child has a disability. The Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team will meet within ten (10) school days to consider the request. If a disability is suspected, Written Prior Notice for Initial Evaluation will be given to parents with five (5) days; and the initial evaluation will be conducted within sixty (60) days of receipt of parental consent.

All assessment instruments will be tailored to assess specific areas of educational need as well as all areas related to the suspected disability to include, if appropriate, health, vision, hearing, social and emotional status, general intelligence, academic performance, communicative status, and motor skills. Rachel Rogers, Director of Special Services, Covington County Schools, and P O Box 1269, Collins, MS 39428.

LEAST RESTRICTIVE ENVIRONMENT The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) established the provision for educating children with disabilities in their Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). All children with disabilities ages three (3) through twenty-one (21) years are to be educated with age- appropriate, nondisabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate, including children who are placed in public or private institutions and other care facilities. Covington County School District will offer an array of services and a continuum of educational settings to meet the individual LRE needs of each child. Children with disabilities will be afforded an equal opportunity to participate in nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities.

Each child’s educational placement, including preschool children, is determined at least once a year; this placement will be based on the IEP of the child and determined by the IEP Committee. Federal law requires students with disabilities to be educated “to the maximum extent appropriate in the regular education classroom.” While education in a regular classroom may not meet the needs of all students with disabilities, there is a strong preference in favor of educating students with disabilities in regular classrooms. As placement decisions are made, the following general principles will be considered: 1. The child’s placement is as close to his home as possible. 2. The child attends the school he would attend if he did not have a disability, unless the IEP stipulates some other arrangement. 3. The placement shall not produce harm to the child that cannot be addressed through supplementary aids and services. 4. The child is not removed from education in age appropriate regular classrooms solely because of needed modifications in the general curriculum or the failure to provide supplementary aids and services.

AMERICAN DISABILITY ACT 504 ACCOMMODATION PLAN Once a parent requests a 504 Plan, the child is placed in the Multi-Tiered Support System process. The child will be referred to the TST committee for a decision for placement on a tier, based on the recommendation of the 504 coordinator. Once the tier process is completed, the

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child will receive a full comprehensive assessment per MDE Special Education guidelines for determination of a possible disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. If the child is not found eligible for IDEA special education services, then the need for a 504 plan will be evaluated. Please note that the District 504 Team is the only entity that can waive the MTSS process and this only applies when a short-term disability exists and the length of the plan will be determined at the discretion of the District 504 Team. CCSD Policy IDDHB

GIFTED EDUCATION The gifted program in Covington County School District is entitled ALPHA (Advanced Learning Program for Higher Aptitudes) and has been established to meet the individual needs of gifted children. The ALPHA program will be in addition to and different from the regular program of instruction provided by the district. Children in Grades 2 through 6 who meet the Mississippi Department of Education Regulations are served through this program. Eligibility determination for the gifted program is made in accordance with the Mississippi Department of Education

STUDENT AND COMMUNITY SAFETY The safety of each child is a primary concern for the Covington County School District. Our school district has spent considerable time and effort planning and practicing safety and security measures appropriate for dealing with major critical incidents. Every school has a safety crisis plan. Teachers, staff, and students participate in appropriate trainings covering a variety of potential crises. The School Resource Officer works closely with city and county law enforcement, and Emergency Management, and other public safety departments.

We ask our families to assist in our safety plans. At the beginning of the school year, review the handbook with your children. Make sure that they know the expectations the school has for their social and academic behavior. During the school year, you may hear your children talk about various drills that will occur on campus. We regularly participate in fire and weather drills, as well as lockdown drills and evacuation drills. Students are expected to learn the evacuation procedures in case of an actual event or emergency. It is very important that you provide the school with up to date phone numbers, names of responsible parties and addresses as well as vital medical information. Parents must notify the school when there is a change of address, phone number, or any other vital student information.

In the event of a crisis, please be aware of the following procedures:  AIM Parent notification will be used.  Tune into the following media to be notified of school closings and possible evacuation sites: WDAM-TV, WBBN-FM 95.9, WNSL-FM 100.3, WUSW-FM 103.7, WXXR-FM 104.5, WJKX-FM 102.5, WZLD-FM 106.3 and WHLH-FM 95.5  Please do not call the school. Lines need to be held open for possible emergency responders.  If the school is in LOCKDOWN, students will stay on campus in a secure classroom. Teachers and school personnel have received training in lockdown procedures. No one will be allowed to enter during a lockdown.  If school must be evacuated, students will be evacuated to an alternate location, which will be released through media resources.  No student shall be released until an authorized parent or guardian signs him or her out.

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It is important that you trust and work with your school and emergency personnel in the event of a crisis so that these individuals can accurately implement the procedures that they have been trained on throughout the year. CCSD Policy AFC

EARLY DISMISSAL FOR BAD WEATHER In case of an early dismissal due to impending bad weather, notification will be made through local television and radio as well as the AIM school messenger system and Covington County School District FACEBOOK page. Students will not be counted absent if they are checked out of school after the official early announcement has been made through the media. Any check-out prior to the official announcement will be treated as normal checkout and will be counted as an absence. If you choose to check your child out during a tornado warning, you will do so at your own risk. The Covington County School District recommends not checking a student out during a tornado warning .CCSD Policy AFC

SCHOOL VIOLENCE/THREATS OF VIOLENCE/INTIMIDATION Violence, threats of violence, or any other activity that disrupts the educational process and/or threatens the health or general safety of other students or staff WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. The administration and school staff will take threats of violence very seriously and violators will be dealt with swiftly. Violent acts (including fighting) or threats of violent acts will not be viewed as pranks or “playing around” activities by students or others. Any violent act or threat of violent act can result in law enforcement action and filing of appropriate criminal charges.

Students are not permitted to make threats against other students or school personnel, whether overt or implied. Students are not allowed to extort money, favors, or anything of value from other students or staff, regardless of the amount of value, in return for protection or in connection with a threat to inflict harm or to intimidate. Such behavior is a violation of school policy and students in violation are subject to disciplinary action. This statement will apply on school grounds, before, during, and after school, or any time the school is being used by a school group. It is also applicable off school grounds at school sponsored events or when the prohibited behavior causes a disruption of the educational environment.

Furthermore, students and staff have a duty to report to school authorities, any knowledge they may have regarding the threat of a violent act. This includes, but is not limited to, reporting knowledge of verbal or written comments by an individual or group of individuals stating their intent to commit a violent act or knowledge that an individual is in possession of an item that is considered or could be considered a weapon. Failure to report such knowledge to school authorities is a violation of school policy. All threats of violence or violent acts will be documented by school officials.

The Covington County School District will not tolerate anyone verbally abusing or threatening to harm any staff member. Persons who do so will be subject to prosecution in the appropriate judicial system. Any student that is in violation of this policy will be subject to administrative discipline and subject to a youth court referral. See Senate Bill 2015 MS Code 37-11-21 CCSD Policy JDDA

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HARASSING/BULLYING Students of the Covington County School District shall not bully, harass, or intimidate others including through electronic means such as, but not limited to FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, SNAPCHAT, TWITTER, the internet, text messages or related means.

Students in the Covington County School District are protected from bullying or harassing behavior by other students. It is the intent of the Board and the administration to maintain an environment free from bullying and harassing behavior. This complaint procedure provides a process for filing, processing and documenting the actions taken to address the complaint. Adherence to these procedures is mandatory. The failure of any person to follow these procedures will constitute a waiver of the right to pursue a complaint at any level, including review by the Board.

Bullying or harassing behavior is defined as any pattern of gestures, written communication, electronic communication, verbal communication, or any act reasonably perceived as being motivated by an actual or perceived differentiating characteristic that (a) places a student in actual and reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property, or (b) creates or is certain to create a hostile environment by substantially interfering with or impairing a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits. CCSD Policy JDDA

PROCEDURES FOR PROCESSING A COMPLAINT Any student who feels he/she has been a victim of bullying or harassing behavior, or has witnessed or who has reliable information that a student has been subject to bullying or harassing behavior shall report such conduct to the principal, counselor, or other school official. The report shall be made promptly, but no later than five (5) working days after the alleged act or acts have occurred. The school official shall complete a Bullying/Harassment Behavior Complaint form which shall include the name of the reporting person, the specific nature and date of the misconduct, the names of the victim of the misconduct, the names of any witnesses and any other information that would assist in the investigation of the complaint. The report shall be given promptly to the principal who shall institute an immediate investigation. Complaints against the superintendent shall be made to the Board.

The complaint shall be investigated promptly. Parents will be notified of the nature of any complaint involving their student. The district official will arrange such meetings as may be necessary with all concerned parties within five (5) working school days after initial receipt of the complaint by the district. The parties will have an opportunity to submit evidence and a list of witnesses. All findings related to the complaint will be provided in writing. The district official conducting the investigation shall notify the victim and parents as appropriate when the investigation is completed and a decision regarding disciplinary action, as warranted, is determined.

If the victim is not satisfied with the decision of the district official, he/she may submit a written appeal to the superintendent or his designee. Such appeal shall be filed within ten (10) working days after receipt of the results of the initial decision. The superintendent or his designee will arrange such meetings with the victim and other affected parties as deemed necessary to discuss the appeal. The superintendent or his designee shall provide a written decision to the victim’s appeal within ten (10) working school days.

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If the victim is not satisfied with the decision of the superintendent or the designee, a written appeal may be filed with the Board of Education. Such appeal shall be filed within ten (10) working days after receipt of the decision of the Superintendent or the designee. The Board shall, within thirty (30) working days, allow the victim and parents as appropriate to appear before the Board to present reasons for dissatisfaction with the decision of the Superintendent or the designee. The Board shall provide a written decision within ten (10) working days following the victims appeal before the board.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT As provided under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, no person in the U.S. shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Students in the Covington County School District are protected from sexual discrimination, including sexual harassment, by Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972 to the Civil Rights Act. It is the intent of the Board to maintain an environment free from sexual harassment of any kind. Therefore, unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature amounting to or constituting harassment are prohibited. Complaints of sexual discrimination/harassment shall be handled in accordance with Policy JB-P C Students Complaints of Sexual Discrimination/Harassment -- Title IX Procedures. CCSD Policy JB (see exhibit JB-P)

SECRET SOCIETY/GANG ASSOCIATION It shall be unlawful for any pupil attending the public schools of this state to become a member of or to belong to or participate in the activities of any high school fraternity, sorority, or secret society as defined in Section 37-11-37. The Covington County School Board prohibits fraternities, sororities, or secret societies in all high schools under its jurisdiction. It shall be the duty of said school board to suspend or expel from high schools under its control, any pupil or pupils who shall be or remain a member of or shall join or promise to join, or be pledged to become a member of, any public high school fraternity, sorority or secret society, as defined in section 37-11-37. It shall be unlawful for any person not enrolled in high school to solicit any pupil enrolled in high school, to join or pledge himself or herself to become a member of any high school fraternity, sorority, or secret society, or to solicit any pupil to attend a meeting thereof or any meeting where the joining of any such high school fraternity, sorority, or secret organization shall be encouraged. Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be fined not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than one hundred dollars ($100.00) for each and every offense. Student behavior that harasses or threatens other students or school personnel will not be tolerated. This district shall treat hazing, as defined in MS Code 97-3-105 and stalking, and as defined in MS Code 97-3-107, as serious offenses subject to criminal prosecution CCSD Policy JHCAA

CYBERSTALKING/THREATENING/INTIMIDATION Students of the Covington County School District shall not bully, harass, or intimidate others including by electronic means such as, but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat Twitter, the internet, text messages, mobile phone applications such as YikYak, or any related means. It is the intent of the Board and the administration to maintain an environment that is free from bullying and harassing behavior. See SB Policy for complaint procedure. Adherence

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to the complaint procedures is mandatory and the failure of any person to follow these procedures will constitute a waiver of the right to pursue a complaint at any level, including review by the Board. Bullying or harassing behavior is any pattern of gestures, written, electronic, or verbal communication; or any physical act or any threatening communication; or any act reasonably perceived as being motivated by any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic that (a) places a student in actual and reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property, or (b) creates or is certain to create a hostile environment by substantially interfering with or impairing a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits. CCSD Policy JDDA

WEAPONS FREE SCHOOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ACT SECTION 37-11-18, MS CODE OF 1972, as AMENDED A knife, gun, or firearm, or any other instrument considered to be dangerous and capable of causing bodily harm or who commits a violent act on educational property as defined in Section 97-37-17, MS Code of 1872, shall be subject to automatic expulsion for a calendar year by recommendation of the students principal to the superintendent provided, however, that the superintendent may recommend to modify the period of time for such expulsion on a case by case basis. Such expulsion shall take effect immediately subject to the constitutional rights of due process, which shall include the student’s right to appeal to the school board.

Section 97-37-17 – Possession of Weapons by Students: It shall be a felony for anyone to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, or pistol or any other firearm of any kind, or any dynamite, cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine or powerful explosive on school property. Anyone violating this subsection shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) or committed to the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections for not more than three (3) years or both.

It shall be a misdemeanor for any person to possess or carry, whether open or concealed any BB gun, air rifle, air pistol, Bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slingshot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, razors, or razor blades. Any person violating this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not more than $1,000.00, or could be imprisoned not exceeding six (6) months, or both.

Student safely must be and shall be a foremost consideration within the schools. Any student who is in possession of a knife, handgun, other firearm or any other instrument considered to be a weapon or considered to be dangerous and capable of causing bodily harm, shall be subject to automatic expulsion for a calendar year pursuant to Section 37-11-18 of the MS Code of 1972. The principal, who shall make a recommendation in regard to expulsion to the Superintendent and Board of Education, may immediately suspend any student who possesses any such device on school grounds or on a school bus. Furthermore, any student that uses an object that could be classified as a weapon in any fight with another student or with any school staff member shall be immediately suspended and a recommendation of expulsion shall be made to the Board of Education, who shall have sole and absolute discretion to act thereon. Any use of a weapon in a fight or other altercation or any other incident shall be immediately reported by school officials to law enforcement as a criminal act. CCSD Policy JCBH, JCDAE, and JCDAE-2

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USE/POSSESSION OF DRUGS – CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES OR MEDICATIONS (PRESCRIBED OR OVER THE COUNTER) No student attending school or any school-sponsored activity shall be permitted to carry on his/her person or any other manner have in his/her possession, in any way, or be under the influence of alcoholic beverages; morphine, marijuana, cocaine, opium, heroin or other derivatives or compounds, drugs commonly called LSD, “pep” pills, designer drugs (ecstasy and spice), tranquilizers, uppers/downers, medications (prescribed or over the counter) or any compound that is taken orally, intravenously, inhaled or in any other manner that may cause the person to be under the influence thereof, and no student shall use any of the same at any school in the district. This includes any type of drug paraphernalia (pipes, rolling papers, etc.) or “look alike” drugs. The provisions of this policy shall not apply to any student that is under the care of a licensed physician and who is taking medication which is under the supervision and direction of such physician and for which the student possesses a legal prescription. CCSD Policy JCDAC

The principal may use observation, i.e. smell, symptoms, etc., to determine whether a student is under the influence. The principal may ask for assistance from a School Resource Officer to help determine if a student is under the influence. If a student is suspected of being under the influence, the principal will immediately call the student’s parents to come pick the student up from school. Having the student removed from school grounds is for the safety of the student as well as the safety of other students and staff members. The student will then enter the district’s discipline ladder and the information will be forwarded to Youth Court.

Any student violating the provisions of the district drug policy shall be considered to have committed a major offense and shall be subject to major disciplinary action, which may include long term suspension, alternative school placement, and/or expulsion by the Board of Education. Pursuant to state law, any person who possesses any controlled substance in violation of the Uniformed Controlled Substances Law shall be subject to automatic expulsion. The principal shall suspend the student and a recommendation will be made to the Superintendent and Board of Education to expel the student.

This policy is for the sole and exclusive protection of the students of this school district and their general welfare and nothing shall be construed to avoid any prosecution under applicable criminal laws. The principal shall report any violation of this policy to the Superintendent and also to proper law enforcement officials. CCSD Policy JCDAC

TOBACCO USE ON SCHOOL PROPERTY In adherence with MS Code Sections 97-32-25, 97-32-27, and 97-32-29 the Covington County School Board has adopted the following policy: The use of tobacco products by any adult or minor person, on any educational property, is strictly prohibited. Educational property is defined as any public school building or bus, public school campus, grounds recreational area, athletic field or other property used, or operated by any local school board, school, or directors of any public educational institution during a school related activity. Tobacco products which are prohibited include any substance that contains tobacco, including, but not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, pipes, snuff, smoking tobacco, smokeless tobacco, or electronic cigarettes. CCSD Policy JCDAC

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SEARCHES AND QUESTIONING The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article, 3 §23 of the Mississippi Constitution provide all people with the right to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches. However, circumstances will arise where searches of students’ persons, possessions, locker, desks, and vehicles will be necessary. Administrators have the authority and obligation to exercise discretion in the implementation of this policy, balancing the district’s responsibility to maintain discipline, order, and a safe environment conducive to education with the student’s expectation of privacy.

All searches must be pre-approved by the Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, principal, assistant principal, or acting principal. No other district employee may authorize a search except when an emergency situation exists.

At least two (2) district employees must be present while a search is being conducted.

No student other than the student who is the subject of the search may be present during the search. All searches must be reasonable in scope. Searches are permitted as follows: 1. Person or Possessions (book bags, purses, etc.) – Searches of a student’s person, possessions or lockers may be conducted if a district employee has prior individualized reasonable suspicion that the student has violated or is violating a district policy, school rules or regulations, or the law and that the search will result in discovery of evidence of such violation. 2. Desks or Other School Property – Searches of desks and other school property (except lockers) may be conducted at any time, with or without reasonable suspicion of a violation. 3. Vehicles – Searches of vehicles driven to school by or for students may be searched by visual inspection with or without reasonable suspicion of a violation. If a visual search results in individualized reasonable suspicion of a violation, a more intrusive search of the vehicle may be conducted at the direction of the principal or other administrator present. 4. Strip Searches – No student shall be subject to a strip search except where an emergency exists and with pre-approval from the Superintendent. No student shall be asked to remove any article of clothing in the presence of a member of the opposite sex or any other student. 5. Metal Detectors – Use of metal detectors to minimize risk of weapons on campus is determined to be a desirable technique for campus security operations. Metal detectors may be used at random without cause at times which shall be determined by school administration. Anyone purposely avoiding a metal detection device shall be determined just cause and will be subject to a search. 6. Canine Search – The Covington County School District may, at any time, utilize specially trained canines to search vehicles, desks, lockers, any school property, and possession not on the student’s person, with or without reasonable suspicion of violation. A canine response indicating the presence of contraband constitutes reasonable suspicion and a more intrusive search may be conducted. This may include a search of the student’s person, possessions, or vehicle at the discretion and direction of the principal. No canines will be used in the schools without prior approval from the Superintendent. All safety procedures in dealing with a canine will be of the utmost importance. CCSD Policy JCDA

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VISITORS ON CAMPUS Visitors/ Parents are welcome at all Covington County School District campuses. In order to maintain safety and guard instructional time at schools, we ask that all visitors adhere to the following: - Visitors must report to the main office, sign in on the visitor’s log, and receive a visitor’s pass - Before visitors leave, they will be required to sign out in the main office and return the visitor’s pass - Visitors who fail to check in at the main office may be referred to the District Resource Officer

STUDENT CHECKOUT/EARLY DISMISSAL In order to maintain the safety of all the students in the Covington County School District, no student will be allowed to check out unless the adult comes to the office, personally signs the student out and waits for the student to come to the office. Parents/Guardians are required to fill out and return a “Permission to Check Out” form which will list what adults are allowed to check out the student. Persons not on the checkout form will not be allowed to check students out of school. Persons checking out students may be required to show photo identification in order to check out the student. Every effort will be made to insure that students obtain parent/guardian permission for early dismissal/checkout; however, the school district cannot be responsible for misrepresentation of others assuming the role of parents/guardians. Reasonable caution will be assumed by school authorities in the dismissal of students.

DEFACING/DESTROYING SCHOOL PROPERTY Equipment, facilities, buses, books and fixtures that make up the school campus are paid for by taxpayers. Willful damage or destruction of school property shall not be tolerated. State law provides in MS Code 37-11-19/1953 Ex. Section., 26 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 that: “if any pupil willfully destroys, cuts, defaces, damage, or injures any school building, equipment or other school property he/she shall be liable to suspension, or expulsion and his/her parents or persons in loco parentis (in the place of parents) shall be liable for all damages.” The punishment for such destruction of school property may include replacement of the property by the parent/guardian, renovation and/or repair of the property destroyed or damaged, and/or suspensions/expulsion of the student from school.

YOUTH COURT Criminal behavior, if committed by a student, may result in referral to Covington County Youth Court or the appropriate Judiciary. The following list of offenses that shall be reported: Possession of Weapons Threatening and Intimidation Possession of Drugs Public Intoxication Possession of Alcohol Defacing/Destroying School Property Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Malicious Mischief Simple Assault (to include fighting) Cyberstalking Disorderly Conduct Gambling Abuse of a teacher/principal, bus driver Trespassing Rape Bomb Threats Sexual Battery Gang Activity Larceny Gang Material

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And any other criminal offenses defined in the MS Code of 1972. In addition to the above listed offenses, unexcused absences will also be reported to the School Attendance Officer. In some cases, the School Attendance Officer shall report unexcused absences to Youth Court.

UNSAFE SCHOOL OPTION If the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) informs the Covington County School District that a school within the district has been identified as a persistently dangerous school according to MDE guidelines, the Covington County School District will implement the following actions. 1) Within ten (10) calendar days, notify the parents of each student attending the school that MDE has identified as persistently dangerous. 2) Offer the students the opportunity to transfer to a safe public school within the Covington County School District fourteen (14) days prior to the opening of school. 3) Those students who accept the transfer offer must complete the transfer within twenty (20) calendar days. 4) Develop a corrective action plan within twenty (20) calendar days of notifications and implement the plan in a timely manner. 5) If a student becomes the victim of a violent criminal offense (as defined by MDE) while in school or on school grounds that student attends, the Covington County School District will offer to transfer the student to a safe school as outlined in section 2 within fourteen (14) days. CCSD Policy JGFA

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY It is the policy of Covington County School District to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)]. Students should understand that the school district must be in compliance with CIPA (Children’s Internet Protection Act). Students must accept responsibility to abide by the Covington County School District's Internet Network Access Policy and procedures that prohibit all illegal activity. The use of the Internet and access to the network is a privilege not a right to use the Internet network for appropriate educational purposes and research. Cooperation with this policy means students will:  Not attempt, through “hacking” or other means, to enter unauthorized, illegal, or inappropriate Internet sites.  Use the Internet network only with the permission of designated school staff.  Be considerate of others on the network and use appropriate language for school situations.  Not intentionally degrade or disrupt Internet network services or equipment. This includes tampering with computer hardware and software, vandalizing data, invoking computer viruses, attempting to gain access to restricted services or violating copyright laws.  Comply with all the rules included in the Student Handbook.  Not divulge or disseminate personal information such as addresses and telephone numbers over the Internet.

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 Immediately report any security problems or breeches of the above responsibilities to the responsible systems and/or staff administrator.

ACCESS TO INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

INAPPROPRIATE NETWORK USAGE To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Covington County School District online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.

EDUCATION, SUPERVISION AND MONITORING It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Covington County School District’s staff to educate, supervise and monitor appropriate usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy, the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of The Technology Director or designated representatives. The Covington County School District or designated representatives will provide age- appropriate training for students who use the Covington County School District Internet facilities. The training provided will be designed to promote the Covington County School District’s commitment to: I. The standards and acceptable use of Internet services as set forth in the Covington County School District’s Internet Acceptable Use Policy; II. Student safety with regard to: a. safety on the Internet; b. appropriate behavior while on online, on social networking Web sites, and in chat rooms; and c. Cyberbullying awareness and response. III. Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”). Following receipt of this training, the student will acknowledge that he/she received the training, understood it, and will follow the provisions of the District's acceptable use policies

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CHILDREN’S INTERNET PROTECTION ACT The Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) is a federal law enacted by Congress to address concerns about access to offensive content over the Internet on school and library computers. CIPA imposes certain types of requirements on any school or library that receives funding for Internet access or internal connections from the E-rate program – a program that makes certain communications technology more affordable for eligible schools and libraries. In early 2001, the FCC issued rules implementing CIPA. CIPA Requires:  Schools and libraries subject to CIPA may not receive the discounts offered by the E-rate program unless they certify that they have an Internet safety policy that includes technology protection measures. The protection measures must block or filter Internet access to pictures that are: (a) obscene; (b) child pornography; or (c) harmful to minors (for computers that are accessed by minors). Before adopting this internet safety policy, schools and libraries must provide reasonable notice and hold at least one public hearing or meeting to address the proposal.  Schools subject to CIPA are required to adopt and enforce a policy to monitor online activities of minors.  Schools and libraries subject to CIPA are required to adopt and implement an Internet safety policy addressing: (a) access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet; (b) the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communications; (c) unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking,” and other unlawful activities by minors online; (d) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors; and (e) measures restricting minors’ access to materials harmful to them. Schools and libraries are required to certify that they have their safety policies and technology in place before receiving E-rate funding.  CIPA does not affect E-rate funding for schools and libraries receiving discounts only for telecommunications, such as telephone service.  An authorized person may disable the blocking or filtering measure during use by an adult to enable access for bona fide research or other lawful purposes. CCSD Policy IJ

STUDENT INTERNET ACCESS AGREEMENT It is a student’s responsibility to abide by the Covington County School District's Internet Network Access policy and procedures  The use of the Internet and access to the network is a privilege not a right  Students are allowed the use of the internet network for appropriate educational purposes and research. Student are allowed to use the Internet network only with the permission of designated school staff.  Students should be at all times considerate of others on the network and use appropriate language for school situations. Comply with all the rules included in the Student Handbook. Immediately report any security problems or breaches of the above responsible systems and/or staff administrator. PROHIBITED ACTIONS:  Installing software without the approval of the school Information Technology Specialist and school principal.  Downloading any computer software application, utility, plug-in, or other such operations (re)configurators without Information Technology Specialist and principal approval.  Creating, downloading, storing, sending, or displaying offensive messages or pictures including, but not limited to pornographic or other sexually explicit material.

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 Inserting, using, or attaching non-approved disks, CD-ROMs, or other media storage devices into or with computers.  Assisting in the election or promotion of any person to any office, the opposition to any person for the same, or for any political issue that may arise.  Using obscene, profane, or vulgar language.  Engaging in any practice(s) that threaten the network and other technological tools and equipment.  Violating copyright laws.  Using the password of others to access the network or any other electronic information or telecommunications services.  Accessing the documents, files, folders, or directories of others.  Using the network and telecommunications services for commercial promotion, product endorsement, or advertisement.  Using the network, electronic information, computer-driven software, and telecommunications services for personal use, gain, or convenience.  Misusing the resources of the district’s network, electronic information, computer-driven software, or telecommunications service equipment or supplies.  Conducting business other than that deemed academic in nature over the network.  Promoting causes that are religious in nature, with no apparent educational or instructional value.  Divulging personal information such as addresses and telephone numbers over the Internet.  Intentionally degrade or disrupt Internet network services or equipment. This includes tampering with computer hardware and software, vandalizing data, invoking computer viruses, attempting to gain access to restricted services.  Attempting to bypass network controls and filters. (I.e. filter bypass websites)  Using Internet games, MUDS (Multi User Dungeons), and IRCs (Internet Relay Chats) Accessing of social networking and blogging websites.  Accessing peer-to-peer site. (E.g. LimeWire),Streaming music or videos,  Printing documents or websites without permission of designated school staff. Electronically mail or electronically communicate to another repeatedly, whether or not conversation ensues, for the purpose of threatening, terrifying, intimidating, or harassing any person. Using electronic mail or electronic communication to send or to post any words or language threatening to inflict bodily harm to any person or that person’s child, sibling, spouse, or dependent or physical injury to the property of any person, or for the purpose of extorting money or other things of value from any person. Using electronic mail or electronically communicating to another and knowingly making any false statement concerning death, injury, illness, disfigurement, indecent conduct or criminal conduct of the person electronically mailed or of any member of person’s family or household with the intent to threaten, terrify, or harass. Electronically mailing, electronically communicating, to send or to post any material that may in any way disrupt the educational environment of the Covington County School District. The above listing is not all inclusive. It is merely a guide that lists the types of behaviors that are not acceptable for network use. The list will be amended from time to time. It should be understood that students have no right to privacy when using the school Internet network and that staff may monitor all communication. Any violations of these responsibilities may result in termination of network access and disciplinary action set forth by the district’s administration.

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PARENT INTERNET ACCESS USER AGREEMENT It is not practical or possible for Covington County School District to enforce user rules at all times. Parents and students will have to make independent decisions and use good judgment in their use of the Internet. Parents must participate in the decision whether to allow their children access to the Internet and must communicate their own expectations to their children regarding its use. As part of the registration packet, the following statements will be provided in a document that must be signed by the parent/guardian. As a parent/guardian of this student, I have read the student responsibilities regarding appropriate use of the Internet and the following agreement: It is impossible for the Covington County School District to restrict access to all objectionable material and I will not hold the school responsible for materials acquired or contact made on the network. I understand that inappropriate materials are available over the Internet and that it is possible for undesirable individuals to communicate with my child over the Internet. I authorize the staff to monitor any communications to or from my child on the Internet and recognize that it is not possible for the school to monitor all such communications. I have determined that the benefits of my child having access to the Internet outweigh potential risks I understand that any contact by my child that is in conflict with these responsibilities may result in termination of access and disciplinary action. I have reviewed these responsibilities with my child and grant permission to the school to provide Internet access. I agree to compensate the school for any expenses or costs it incurs as a result of my child's violation of the Internet policy or administrative procedure.

PARENTAL PERMISSION FOR MEDIA RELEASE While the Covington County School District is selective in granting media access on school campuses, the opportunity to share positive information concerning the educational experiences of students is often requested by outside agencies such as local radio, local television, newspapers and community or state agencies. This often involves videotaping or photographing of students in the classroom setting and/or asking students their opinions regarding their educational experience. Any parent/guardian not granting permission for their child to participate in media events and/or educational surveys must notify the school principal in writing of their request. A lack of response will indicate that such permission has been granted. CCSD Policy IJ

STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION This serves as a notice from the Covington County School District of the categories of information which it considers directory information regarding students in the district. Parents should respond in writing within (10) ten days of this notification to inform the superintendent of specific directory information pertaining to such student that should not be released without prior written consent of the parents. If the parent/guardian provides no such objections within ten (10) days of the official notification, the information will be classified as directory information until the beginning of the next school year. The directory information data types may be found in the Covington County School Board Policy manual, section JRA at www.covingtoncountyschools.org under Links. Any directory information considered by the district to be detrimental will not be released and information regarding

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students will not be given over the telephone with the exception of health and/or safety emergencies. CCSD Policy JRA

PARENTAL PERMISSION FOR RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION Dear Parent, Federal law required each Local Educational Agency (LEA), upon request of a military recruiter or an institution of higher education, access to names, addresses, and telephone numbers of high school students. A parent may submit a request in writing to the LEA that such student information not be released without prior written consent of the parent.

If you wish to provide written consent prior to the release of this information you may use the below example and return it to your child’s school counselor. However, please be aware that if you choose not to return the form at this time, you may do so at any time during your child’s school career. The request will be honored and it will be saved as a student record.

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PARENTAL REQUEST FOR PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT You may complete the following if you do not consent to the release of your child’s information – name, address, and telephone number – without first providing written permission to military recruiters and institutions of higher education that request this information. You must do so in writing.

Student’s Last Name: ______Student’s First Name: ______Student’s Office Class: ______Name of School: ______

I am requesting that my child’s name, address, and telephone number NOT be shared with the below without my express written consent: ______Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Learning

Parent/Guardian: ______Print Name Signature

______Date

INTERNET RECOGNITION OF STUDENTS The Covington County School District will recognize students’ achievements in the areas of academics and extracurricular activities on the Covington County Schools web page. www.cov.k12.ms.us. These posted recognitions could include photographs, news stories,

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creative writings, projects, or video clips which may contain audio. In addition, teachers may use voice-enhanced digital tools to allow students to safely share their work and ideas with other students, as well as with the school community through media such as You-Tube, Teacher-Tube, etc.

ELECTRONIC INFORMATION RESOURCES AND NETWORK SERVICES The Covington County School District’s telecommunications equipment, electronic information resources and network services are to be used to support curriculum, instruction and learning opportunities for both students and staff. All electronic information resources and network services must be consistent with district-adopted guidelines for the selection of educational materials. These resources must be used to enhance and enrich curriculum while providing for varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities and developmental levels of students. Faculty and students are responsible for good behavior when using these resources and services. Any action that is determined to be inappropriate may result in termination of privilege and may initiate other action in compliance with district policy. Student access to these resources and services will be provided in supervised environments. CCSD does not condone the issuance or usage of materials that contain defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually offensive, threatening, racially offensive, or illegal materials.

SOCIAL NETWORKING WEBSITES Fraternization via social networking websites such as Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, MySpace and Twitter, between school employees and students is prohibited. The accessing of social networking websites for individual use by employees or students during school hours is prohibited. Violation of any this policy will result in disciplinary action. This policy does not prohibit the use of educational websites that are used solely for educational purposes. Any post made during the school day to any social media site by a student may be subject to discipline action if deemed inappropriate by an administrator. CCSD Policy GABBA

POSSESSION OF CELLULAR PHONES OR OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Covington County School District Policy JE – Electronic Devises/Cell Phones STUDENT EXPECTATIONS Students shall not use electronic devices in a manner that poses a threat to academic integrity, disrupts the learning environment, or violates the privacy of others.

Academic integrity is the moral code of ethics of being a student. This means not cheating, being honest about your work, not plagiarizing the work of others, and maintaining high academic standards.

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Students may not possess a cell phone or any electronic device during testing, even if the device is turned off or the student is not using it. Violation of this rule may result in the student's score being invalidated. Learning environment is the classroom, media center, laboratory, gym, etc. where the teacher provides instruction and where students are actively engaged in learning. The learning environment is disrupted when distractions and off-task activities take place. In the learning environment, phones must be put away for the entire period, unless the teacher allows them to be used as part of the lesson. If your phone is not put away, if you are looking at your phone, or using your phone, it is considered an offense. Cell phones, iPods and devices for playing music are not allowed during instructional time without teacher permission. Earbuds or headphones are not allowed in the halls. Privacy of others - On order for all students to feel "valued and safe" at school, certain limits will be enforced to protect student and teacher privacy. Taking photos or videos on school campus or on the bus is not allowed. Posting photos or videos that were taken at school or on the bus to social media will result in disciplinary consequences. Sending, sharing, viewing, or possessing text messages, emails, or other material depicting sexually explicit or offensive content in electronic form on a cell phone or other electronic device while on the campus, or on the bus is against the law and is prohibited. In addition to disciplinary consequences including possible loss of phone privilege for the remainder of the year, you may face criminal charges as well.

ALLOWABLE USE OF CELL PHONES Personal use of cell phones for texting, listening to music, etc. is permitted only in the commons areas before/after school and lunch. NO EARBUDS OR HEADPHONES IN THE HALLWAYS. No phone conversations on personal phones during school hours. Taking picture or videos on cell phones is prohibited at all times.

Violation of the cell phone/electronic device policy will be referred to the office and the student will face the following consequences:

1st offense - Teacher will take up the cell phone/electronic device and turn it in to the office. The phone will be returned at the end of the school day. 2nd offense - The device will be turned in to the office. Student will be placed on the discipline ladder and the parent/guardian must pick up the device in the office. *If a student refuses to give their device to school personnel the result could be further disciplinary action which may include suspension. *A student that does not follow the electronic device/cell phone guidelines will be prohibited the use of personal electronic devices based upon the student discipline ladder. In all instances, the administrator reserves the right to determine the length of time a student will be prohibited the used of personal electronic devices.

Parents, if you have an emergency and need to contact your child, please call the office and we will contact your son/daughter. Please do not try to contact them by cell

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phone. The Covington County School District, its faculty, and staff are NOT responsible for any damaged, missing or stolen cell phones. If a student has a cell phone and it is damaged or stolen, schools WILL NOT utilize administrative time to investigate the incident nor will the district or schools take any financial responsibility for the cell phone or cell phones charges. All electronic items not collected by the end of the school year will be donated to charity.

Any student caught using or in possession of an electronic device (i.e cell phone) during State Testing could have their test invalidated. In the case of high stakes testing means they fail the test.

TRANSPORTATION Covington County School District provides transportation for students to appropriate classes and facilities. The school district assumes no responsibility for any damages incurred when a student is transported by private vehicle. Student conduct/behavior may be monitored by video/audio equipment. Appropriate disciplinary action may be taken after viewing video. All students are to follow the rules of the bus driver. CCSD Policy JCDAD (To access the policy JCDAD. Go to www.covingtoncountyschools.org Click Forms/Links; choose Board Policy under links.)

INTERFERENCE WITH OPERATION OF A SCHOOL BUS (MS CODE 37-41-2) Only authorized students and school district personnel may ride or enter a school bus. It is unlawful for a person to abuse or interfere with any bus driver, the operation of the bus, or any district employee in the performance of their duties. Violation of these state laws is a misdemeanor offense and is subject to punishment of up to six (6) months in prison and/or a fine of up to $500. CCSD Policy JCDAD and EDA

BUS CONDUCT Bus transportation is a privilege. Thus, for the sake of safety, the need for proper behavior is essential. Students who do not conduct themselves properly will not be allowed to ride the bus. Student misconduct on the bus may also lead to suspension and/or other disciplinary actions. The bus driver is responsible to the school district to maintain order and to ensure maximum safety at all times. The driver is authorized to instruct and otherwise control students as to proper conduct and safety while they are on the bus. The school principal will be responsible for disciplining students reported to him/her by the driver. Questions and inquiring regarding discipline should be directed to the school principal. Students are not allowed to get off the bus at locations other than their school or their residence. CCSD Policy JCDAD and EDA

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BUS RULES AND REGULATIONS In accordance with HB 893, the Pupil Transportation Guide from the Mississippi Department of Education, the following rules and regulations must be observed by students on school buses at all times:  Be ready in the morning at the scheduled time and place for the bus to arrive.  Wait for a signal from the driver and pass in front of the bus, if necessary to cross the road or highway, to load or unload.  Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to load or unload.  Be quiet when the bus nears or crosses a railroad or highway. The following behaviors may result in disciplinary action being taken:  Being in the road while waiting for the bus.  Putting head, hands or other objects outside the window.  Ride on the exterior of the bus.  Mark or deface the bus.  Smoke or use intoxicants.  Fight or tussle.  Strike or threaten the bus driver.  Use profanity or make vulgar gestures.  Carry weapons.  Make excessive noise.  Throw objects inside the bus or out the windows.  Commit any other act of improper conduct and/or violate any other provisions of student conduct contained in this handbook. CCSD Policy JCDAD and EDA

BUS LOADING ZONES Students who do not ride the bus should not be dropped off or picked up in the bus loading zone. Each school in the Covington County School District provides a designated area for parents to let their children out in the mornings and/or pick them up in the afternoons. CCSD Policy JCDAD and EDA