Student Handbook and Calendar

2017-2018

Northside College Preparatory High School 5501 N. Kedzie Avenue Chicago, IL 60625 773.534.3954 (fax) 773.534.3964

www.northsideprep.org

Ms. Kelly L. Mest, Principal [email protected]

Ms. Kaitlin O’Hare, Assistant Principal [email protected]

Mr. Barry Smith, Assistant Principal [email protected]

Ms. Melissa Hendler, Resident Principal [email protected]

This student handbook and calendar belongs to:

Name: ______

Address: ______

City: ______Zip Code: ______

Phone:

Advisory Teacher: Adv. Code:

1

Table of Contents

Item Page Vision, Mission & Belief Statements 3 Curriculum Overview 4 Graduation Requirements/Promotion Policy 5 Service Learning 6 Grading & Homework Policies 6 Summer Course Credit 6 Hours of Operation 7 Lost and Found 7 Parking 7 Announcements, Fliers & Posters 7 Elevator 7 ID Cards 7 Lockers 8 Assemblies 8 Telephones/Cell Phones 8 Attendance Policies 8-9 Closed Campus 9 Smoking 9 Visitors 9 Dances and Special Events 10 Dress Code 10 Physical Examinations 10 Programming/Schedule changes 10-11 Textbook Materials & Equipment 11 Fundraising 11 Injury or Illness 11 Medication Policy 12 School Closings 12 Fire/Disaster Evacuation Plan 12 Athletics, Extracurricular, Co-curricular 12-13 Discipline/Student Reporting 14 Honesty & Integrity Policy 14-15 Library/Media Center 15 Technology 15 Student Support Services/Counseling 15-16 Expectations of All Members of the School Community 16 School Schedule 17 Northside’s Fight Song 18 Northside’s Alma Mater 18 Important Dates to Remember 19 Student Acceptable Use of the CPS Network Appendix A

2

Vision Statement We are a diverse community striving for excellence so that all may lead productive and balanced lives in a more democratic, ethical, and humane global society.

Mission Statement The Mission of Northside College Preparatory High School is:

. to create a community of learners striving to fulfill their individual and collective intellectual, emotional, social, and ethical potential; . to forge partnerships for learning among parents, students, teachers, and local community institutions; . to challenge all to assume their active roles in improving both the local and global communities; . and to create an environment in which learners construct meaning by actively participating in the learning process.

Belief Statements We Believe…

. Students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community leaders are responsible for creating and ensuring an environment in which learning is modeled and valued. . High school is not only preparation for college and life after college, but it IS life. . A meaningful education balances academic, social, and emotional needs and experiences. . Every person is a learner and a teacher. . Reflection is necessary for growth. . The world is one’s classroom. . Every person constructs meaning and understanding. . The realms of knowledge are intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual. . Balance among the realms of knowledge is the key to a satisfying, ethical life. . People share responsibility and credit for their work. . People must learn how to compete with themselves and collaborate with others. . Self-respect is built upon achievement and integrity. . Adults share in the responsibility of shaping the leaders of tomorrow. . Technology enriches traditional paths to knowledge. . Ethical behavior underlies each individual’s endeavors. . All must accept the challenge to share their gifts with others for the betterment of the world in which they live. . Democratic values and practices enrich individuals and the societies in which they live. . What one knows and how one learns are both important. . People learn as much from failure as from success. . Interdisciplinary approaches that stress the connectedness of knowledge are powerful instruments of learning. . Collaboration and teamwork enhance the learning process.

3 . Each individual has special gifts and talents.

Curriculum Overview Northside College Preparatory High Schools seeks to offer its students challenging and innovative courses in all subject areas. A fundamental belief of NCP is that all students deserve an excellent program of instruction that challenges each student at the high level required for productive citizenship and employment.

The program of study at Northside College Preparatory High School is shaped by the following statements of educational philosophy:

Content of Courses . Learning is enhanced when content is placed in meaningful context and is connected to other subject areas and when students are given multiple opportunities to apply what they are studying in meaningful ways. . A complete and coherent curriculum must focus on the development of concepts, skills, and processes that enable all students to formulate, analyze, and solve problems proficiently. . The entire curriculum focuses on the development of communication skills. . The widespread impact of technology on every aspect of our lives requires changes in the content and nature of educational programs.

Teaching and Learning . Subjects must be taught by teachers who not only have a sound knowledge of their content area, but who also possess a strong understanding of how students learn. . Learning is maximized when teachers focus on thinking and reasoning. . Teachers guide the learning process in their classrooms and manage the classroom environment through a variety of instructional approaches directly tied to content and to students’ needs. . Learning is enriched through collaborative effort. . Instructional approaches should be based on research about how students learn best. . Students use diverse strategies and different approaches to construct meaning; teachers recognize and take advantage of these alternative approaches to help students develop better understanding. . The assessment of understanding in a subject area must be aligned with the content taught and must incorporate multiple forms of assessment, including standardized tests, quizzes, research, performance tasks, investigations, and projects.

4

Graduation Requirements The column on the left represents high school graduation requirements for every Chicago Public School; the right-hand column reflects Chicago Public Schools’ recommendations for College Prep High Schools.

Graduating Classes: 2018 and 2019 High School Graduation Recommended College Prep Program 4.0 English 4.0 English 3.0 Mathematics 4.0 Mathematics 3.0 Science 4.0 Science 3.0 Social Sciences 3.0 Social Science 2.0 World Language 4.0 World Language 2.0 Fine Arts 2.0 Fine Arts 2.0 Physical Education 2.0 Physical Education 2.0 College-Career Pathways 2.0 College-Career Pathways 3.0 Electives 2.0 Electives ------1.0 Computer Science 1 Service Learning Project + 25 1 Service Learning Project + 25 Individual Hours Individual Hours 24 Credits 28 Credits

Graduating Classes: 2020 and Beyond High School Graduation Recommended College Prep Program 4.0 English 4.0 English 3.0 Mathematics 4.0 Mathematics 3.0 Science 4.0 Science 3.0 Social Sciences (includes 1 3.0 Social Science (includes 1 semester of Civics) semester of Civics) 2.0 World Language 4.0 World Language 2.0 Fine Arts 2.0 Fine Arts 2.0 Physical Education 2.0 Physical Education 1.0 Computer Science 1.0 Computer Science 2.0 College-Career Pathways 2.0 College-Career Pathways 2.0 Electives 2.0 Electives 2 Service Learning Projects 2 Service Learning Projects 24 Credits 28 Credits

Promotion Policy The following guidelines regarding promotion apply:

Grade 9 5 units of credit Grade 10 11 units of credit Grade 11 17 units of credit Grade 12 24 units of credit

You can read the official policy at:

5 http://www.cpsboe.org/content/actions/2004_01/04-0128-PO1.pdf

Service Learning Per the Chicago Board of Education, each student is required to perform service learning before graduation. Please refer to the Northside website for specific requirements and policy.

Grading Policy A grade is a means of communicating to students, parents, the school and other institutions and agencies the student’s level of learning in a particular course. The audiences for the grade should be confident that grades are consistent within the school, the department, and different sections of the same course.

Grades earned by students reflect the following criteria: A Indicates learning at the highest level. The student not only has demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the material but also has demonstrated an ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate the material with breadth and depth of understanding. B The student not only has demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the material but also applies the material. The student will be able, on occasion, to demonstrate an ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate the material. C The student has demonstrated a basic knowledge and understanding of the material and some ability to apply it. D The student has demonstrated a limited knowledge and limited understanding of the material and is not able to apply much of it. F The student has not demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the material and, therefore, is not able to apply it.

Homework Policy The faculty and staff at Northside College Prep believe that homework is an important activity, which contributes to educational progress. Homework is designed to reinforce, apply, practice, and enrich concepts and skills introduced within the classroom; to promote independent in-depth study of a chosen topic; to prepare students for class participation; to allow students to experience the abundance of community resources available; and to provide for positive on-going parental involvement in the student’s education.

Summer Course Credit High school course credit will be issued to students who with counselor approval, take courses in CPS approved and/or recognized high school programs, taught by a certified high school teacher. Students who hope to receive credit from enrichment courses must gain the principal’s permission prior to the end of the preceding school year. Typically, students in enrichment courses will not receive high school credit but will have the course noted on their transcripts.

6 Hours of Operation Northside College Prep HS is open from 7:00 A.M. until 5:30 P.M. on school days. Students should enter the school through the center doors on 5501 N. Kedzie Avenue.

Lost and Found The Lost and Found is located on the first floor near the security desk. At the end of each month, unclaimed items are donated to charity or disposed of. All valuables can be retrieved at the main office or security desk.

Parking Our student parking lot is located across the street from the school. Student parking is available to upperclassmen. All cars in the school’s lots must have a parking permit. The main parking lot is reserved for faculty and staff members. Seniors will be given the first opportunity for parking and then juniors until all spots have been accounted for. Students must show car ownership and a valid driver’s license to purchase a parking permit. If there are more students requesting parking than spots available, the school will hold a lottery, first for seniors, then juniors. Students who disobey basic traffic laws around the school or who drive recklessly in the school parking lot or elsewhere on school grounds will have parking privileges rescinded.

Announcements, Fliers, and Posters Before being announced or posted in the school building, club announcements, fliers, and posters should be submitted to an assistant principal for approval. When submitted, students must include the name of a student who will be responsible for removing all signs within 24 hours after the event/assigned removal date. Failure to do so will result in the club losing the privilege of posting future information. We are unable to post materials sponsored by organizations that are not affiliated with Northside College Prep.

Elevator The elevator should only be used by students who are unable to use the stairs. The elevator may not be used during fire drills.

Identification Cards Every student is required to carry a school identification card at all times. All students are required to swipe in upon entry into the building each day. Additionally, the identification card is necessary to check out books in the library and to obtain textbooks and other school-issued materials (e.g., novels and team uniforms). IDs must be shown at school events and when purchasing school lunches. Students who do not bring their IDs to school may purchase a temporary ID for $1.00 from the attendance clerk. If an ID is lost, a replacement ID is available for $5.00. ID cards are the property of Northside College Prep and must be surrendered to any member of the school faculty or staff upon request. In addition, all ID cards must be returned to Northside College Prep when a student withdraws or is expelled from the school.

7 Lockers All upperclassmen will be assigned his/her own locker, if possible. Freshmen and sophomores may need to share. Students are only to keep materials in lockers assigned to them. All lockers are to be kept in order with the door closed and locked. Only locks purchased from Northside may be used. Lockers are school property; the administration or police have the right to search a locker.

Assemblies/Pep Rallies Assemblies and pep rallies are an opportunity for the school community to learn and enjoy activities in a large group setting. Behavior should be mature and appropriate. Students will sit where their classes have been assigned.

Telephones/Cell Phones Students may bring cell/smart phones to school ONLY if they have a signed waiver form on file for the current school year. Cell phones must be POWERED OFF during classes, not on silence or vibrate. A student may use a cell phone ONLY during his/her lunch period or during passing periods. Cell phones and other electronic devices may not be used during class time unless specified by the teacher as part of lesson or activity. Failure to abide by these guidelines will result in the confiscation of the cell phone and disciplinary action in line with the CPS Student Code of Conduct 1-3.

Attendance Policy Students are expected to be on time and in class every day, prepared for the day’s activities. Absences are excused for illness, death in the family, court appearances, and religious holidays. An excused absence allows one to make up work, quizzes, and tests. An unexcused absence disallows students from making up work, quizzes, and tests.

When a student arrives after 8:50AM, that student will receive credit for a ½ day’s attendance. Similarly, if a student cuts a class, s/he is credited with ½ day’s attendance. This is used in determining the number of unexcused absences from school. Additional cuts will be handled in a progressively appropriate manner in accordance with the CPS Student Code of Conduct.

Note: If a student has an early dismissal before 2:15PM, that student will receive credit for a ½ day’s attendance.

Students with five consecutive days of absence or more should produce a note from a medical professional stating the reason for the student’s absence unless the principal or principal’s designee determines such a document is unnecessary.

CPS policy states that students, who have 20% unexcused absences in a class, may result in a failing grade in the class.

8 Excused Absences On the day that the student returns from an excused absence, s/he must present the attendance clerk with a note signed by a parent or guardian within 7 days in order to make up missed assignments and/or assessments. Absences are not excused until the attendance office receives the letter. A sample absence letter is available on the NCP website under Parents/Attendance.

Tardy Policy Students’ prompt attendance at school is an expectation; students have consequences for their inability to be on time. Students receive eight minutes to get from one class to another and they are expected to do so. Tardies will be handled in a progressively appropriate manner in accordance with the CPS Student Code of Conduct 1-6. Because tardiness indicates loss of instructional time, all tardies may affect students’ grades.

Early Dismissals Students may receive early dismissals for illness, medical appointments, or a death in the family. Regardless of students’ age, all students who receive an early dismissal must be picked up from school by a parent or guardian. This policy cannot be waived with a note, phone call, or any other means. 1. Students requiring an early dismissal from school due to illness or extreme emergency, you should report to the main office. 2. Students cannot be given an early dismissal unless a parent or guardian can be reached. 3. Any adult picking up a student for early dismissal must be listed on the student’s emergency form.

Vacations Parents are provided Northside/Chicago Public School calendars and are strongly discouraged from planning vacations on school days. Absences for vacations are considered unexcused absences from school. Teachers are not required to issue make-up work or tests.

Closed Campus Northside College Prep operates on a closed campus policy whereby students are not allowed to leave campus during the school day. Note that the east side of campus ends at the stairs to the River Walk, which is the property of the Chicago Park District.

Smoking Northside College Prep is a smoke-free environment. Smoking is not allowed in any area of the building or on school grounds and is in violation of the Chicago Public Schools’ Student Code of Conduct.

Visitors All visitors must check in at the Main Office. Classroom visitors are allowed only with the prior written permission of an assistant principal and the teachers whose classes would be visited.

9 Dances and Special Events Northside College Prep has adopted the following policies in order to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment at student activities: 1. Students must be in attendance a full day in order to attend a school dance or special event. This also includes weekend events. 2. Students must be in good standing to attend dances and special events. Students whose misconduct is in violation of group 4, 5, or 6 in the Student Code of Conduct or have outstanding detentions will forfeit their rights to attend dances/proms and special events during the school year. 3. Students must purchase tickets prior to the dance or special event. 4. Each Northside student may invite one outside high school guest. 5. The name and school of each guest must be given to the appropriate person at least three days (unless otherwise notified) prior to a dance or special event. 6. Outside guests will only be admitted if they have been approved by their home school and bring a valid student ID from that school. 7. All students attending a dance or special event are subject to a school search. 8. Inappropriate or dangerous dancing and/or behavior will not be permitted.

Dress Code Students should be dressed in a manner that is conducive to and appropriate for a scholastic environment. An individual’s dress, appearance, cleanliness, and behavior demonstrate sensitivity to and respect for others. Per Board of Education Policy, the wearing of hats, caps, or clothing with obscene or suggestive lettering or pictures is prohibited.

The following are examples that are prohibited: . Shirts or tops that bare the midsection or that do not cover the shoulders . See-through or low cut tops/shirts . Excessively short skirts/dresses and shorts . Any attire that exposes undergarments/underclothing Disciplinary action will be in line with the CPS Student Code of Conduct.

Physical Examinations A current certification of Child Health Examinations must be presented upon entrance to the ninth grade. Every student must be in compliance with the State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Public Health regulations in order to remain in school. Any student not in compliance with the regulations necessarily will be excluded from school until those requirements have been met.

Programming Students select courses with their advisory teacher during February. The student’s counselor will then approve their subject selection.

If the student discovers an error in the program distributed at the beginning of the school year, the counselor should be contacted promptly.

10

Schedule Changes Students may make program changes within the first week of a school year if the student and teacher believe success in the course is not within reach or the student has already earned credit in the course. Changes can also be made “to protect the health and well- being” of a student in consultation with a medical professional.

Seniors’ schedules can be changed at the semester if they are in need of a credit for graduation that could not be fulfilled with the student’s first semester schedule of courses. No other course changes will be granted.

Class Drops Students may drop classes if the student’s Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) calls for a reduction in class load. This is the only option for dropping a class.

Textbooks, Materials, and Equipment Students are issued textbooks for each class; additionally, some classes may issue equipment and other materials. Upon receipt of these items, students are responsible for maintaining the quality of the textbooks, equipment, and/or materials. If an item is lost or stolen, the student must pay for a replacement. If an item is returned and found to be damaged, the student also will be expected to pay for a new replacement.

Fundraising Friends of Northside is our official fundraising group. However, student clubs may wish to periodically conduct fundraisers that support other Northside initiatives. Any fundraising activities by clubs, teams, or classes must receive the permission of an assistant principal and have all necessary paperwork completed at least three weeks before the proposed start date of the fundraiser. Students are not allowed to raise funds for groups that are not part of the Northside College Prep community and individual student fundraisers will not be approved.

Illness or Injury in School Any illness or injury should immediately be reported to the teacher or coach in charge. Students should request help from the nearest teacher if the injury or illness occurs outside of a classroom or physical education area. Those witnessing an illness or injury, should not attempt to move the student; but rather, notify the nearest teacher.

If a student is too ill or injured to remain in school, the Attendance Office will issue him/her an early dismissal. The Attendance Office will notify the student’s parent or guardian, who must then pick up the student at school. Under no circumstances may school personnel allow a student to leave the school without being picked up by a parent or an adult who acts as the parent’s proxy. Any adult picking up a student for early dismissal must be listed on the student’s emergency form.

11 Medication Policy CPS policy states that students may not bring medication, including over-the-counter medications, to school without a signed physician and parent consent form. If the physician and parent sign the required form, the medication must be kept locked with the nurse or principal’s designee. Required forms are available in the main office. Emergency medication including inhalers, epi-pens, and other medication, determined on a case by case basis by the nurse, may be carried by the student.

School Closings The Board of Education of the Chicago Public Schools has established a procedure for emergency closings of schools. Once a decision has been made to close Chicago Public Schools for reasons related to weather, disaster, or some other type of emergency, CPS headquarters relays the information to the Emergency Closing Center (ECC), a news media network. The ECC then directs specific information to WMAQ (670 AM), WGN (720AM), WBBM (780 AM), WUSN (99.5 FM), WBBM (96.3 FM), and Fox Television-Channel 32. Parents and students may tune into any of these stations for updated information. Information can also be found on the CPS website.

Fire/Disaster Evacuation Plan for the School Escape routes for fire and other emergencies are posted within each classroom.

Athletics Northside College Prep HS Athletic Department sponsors teams in most sports offered by the Chicago Public School’s Athletic Association. The following are those sports teams sponsored by Northside College Prep HS:

Fall Winter Spring Cheerleading (Co-Ed) Basketball (Boys) Badminton (Girls) Cross Country (Boys) Basketball (Girls) Baseball (Boys) Cross Country (Girls) Bowling (Boys) Lacrosse (Boys & Girls) Golf (Boys) Bowling (Girls) Soccer (Girls) Golf (Girls) Cheerleading (Co-Ed) Softball (Girls) Pom-Pon (Co-Ed) Chess (Co-Ed) Tennis (Boys) Soccer (Boys) Pom-Pon (Co-Ed) Track: Outdoor (Boys) Swimming (Girls) Swimming (Boys) Track: Outdoor (Girls) Tennis (Girls) Track: Indoor (Boys) Volleyball (Boys) Volleyball (Girls) Track: Indoor (Girls) Water Polo (Boys) Wrestling (Co-Ed)

Co-curricular & Athletic Eligibility NCPHS is a member of the Illinois High School Athletic Association. Students must meet the eligibility rules of the IHSA. Club members follow the same policies. All athletes must turn in a current IHSA sports physical, player record card, drug testing waiver form, and NCP athletic contract.

All student-athletes must earn semester eligibility in accordance with current CPS Board Policy.

12 . Semester eligibility constitutes as earning passing grades in at least twenty credit hours of high school work for the previous semester and/or summer school, if applicable. . Students must maintain a cumulative unweighted grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. . A freshman who has never attended any other secondary school is considered eligible upon enrollment; this automatic semester eligibility will continue until student completes his/her first semester. . Failure to earn semester eligibility automatically renders the students ineligible for twenty weeks.

In conjunction with semester eligibility, student athletes’ grades are check on a weekly basis; . A student-athlete who is failing one or more courses at the end of a week during the season shall be ineligible for the next week of competition . A student-athlete who is receiving three or more “D’s” at the end of any week during the season shall be ineligible for the next week of competition.

School Day Attendance/Participation: If an athlete is too ill to come to school, then it is not appropriate for him/her to be a participant at practices or competitions unless they are in school by the end of the first class and stay for the remainder of the school day (unless s/he is attending a school sponsored activity).

Co-curricular and Extra-curricular Activities Northside College Preparatory High School, given student interest, provides for the following co-curricular and extra-curricular activities including but not limited to:

Acafellas Indo-Pak (Desi) Club Pokémon and Nintendo Kin Academic Decathlon Jama’ah Club Polish Club Anime Club Japanese Honor Society Poongmul Art Club Jewish Student Union Quest Bridge Club Asian Club Junior Statesman of America Radio Club Black Student Union Key Club Recycling Club Chinese Dance Knitting Club Red Cross Club Chinese Honor Society Korean Culture Club Rocketry Club Debate Club Latin Club Sabor Latino DSW Latino Club Ski and Snowboard Club FBLA Linguistics Club Spanish Honor Society Forensic (Speech) Team Martial Arts Show Team Stage Crew Francophiles-French Club Maroon Madness (Pep Club) Student Council Gay –Straight Alliance Microfinance Club Tech 2 (Computer Club) Generation Y MIKVA Challenge Ultimate Frisbee Global Initiative Model UN Viet Mua Habitat for Humanity Mustang Motion Pictures Yearbook Horti (Culture) Club Northside Med League Yoga Club Hypnotik Ping Pong Club YSOT (Young Scientist of Iksang Hakbang Poetry Slam Tomorrow)

Students interested in forming new clubs or activities should see the Assistant Principal for details. Every club or activity must have a staff sponsor.

13

Discipline Code “Chicago Public Schools is committed to an instructive, corrective, and restorative approach to behavior” (Chicago Public Schools’ Student Code of Conduct). Like all Chicago public high schools, Northside College Prep High School abides by the Student Code of Conduct. Northside College Prep will provide each student with a print copy of the CPS Student Code of Conduct at the beginning of the school year. The Student Code of Conduct is also available online at cps.edu. Students are expected to abide by this Code. The administration has the right to deny a student access to and/or participate in any school sponsored activities or events based upon a misconduct. Student disciplinary measures are kept in student files.

Student Reporting In a school community where members respect one another and have respect for others’ property, students are expected to report any violation of school rules that may impact the learning or safety of others. Information from students or parents is kept confidential.

Honesty & Integrity The Northside College Prep community expects academic honesty and integrity of all students. The educational program at Northside College Prep stresses more than simply the acquisition of skills and knowledge. Students explore ethical and moral implications of many issues, yet no issue is more important than the student’s own honesty and integrity. It is responsibility of the faculty and parents/guardians to call students to ethical and moral behavior, to honesty and integrity.

The members of the Northside College Prep community, expect that students assume responsibility for their own learning and demonstrate the breadth and depth of that learning honestly. A student’s work; homework, quizzes, tests, essays creative and research papers, and lab reports, should be a product entirely of his/her own efforts. To offer someone else’s work as if it were one’s own is dishonest. Copying homework, taking information from another student during a quiz or test, using unauthorized translation programs, downloading a paper from the internet and presenting it as one’s own, and plagiarism are all examples of serious breaches of the “Honesty and Integrity Policy.”

Assisting a person to be dishonest is also a serious breach in judgment. To supply another with one’s homework to be copied, to supply information to another during a quiz or test, and/or to write a paper for another are examples of this type of transgression.

Any student offering someone else’s work as one’s own will receive a zero for that assignment. Any student assisting another student to be dishonest will receive a zero. The teacher will notify the assistant principal of this offense. For a first offense, the assistant principal will notify the student’s counselor and the student’s parent, speak to the student to explain the seriousness of the transgression and the consequences for a reoccurrence, and apply CPS Student Code of Conduct. For a second offense, the assistant principal will have a conference with the parents, counselor, and student, and place the student on probation; the student will receive a harsher consequence via the Student Code of Conduct. In addition, the student will receive a grade lower in the class for that semester. The third

14 offense is an automatic failure of a class; the Student Code of Conduct consequence will be applied, with a review of a student’s placement at Northside College Prep HS. The principal, assistant principal, and counselor will meet with the student and his/her parents to discuss the student’s transfer from Northside College Prep.

Library/Media Center The NCPHS library is available for individual and group study on school days, from 7:00AM to 5:00 PM. The library collection contains approximately 17,000 books, over 40 magazine subscriptions, and three daily newspapers. Thirty seven computers are available for student use on a first come, first served basis, providing access to the online library catalog, and a variety of databases which support the curriculum; passwords for remote access are available through the library. Books circulate for two weeks, and may be renewed twice. A fee of 10 cents per day is charged for books that are returned late. The loan period for video equipment is one day. A $5.00 per day late fee is charged for any video equipment that is not returned on time. All fines must be paid and books returned by the end of the school year. Food and drinks are not allowed in the library. Cell phones may not be used in the library. As per the CPS Acceptable Use Policy, gaming is not allowed in the library.

Technology The school computers, peripheral devices and network are offered to students for school work. Personal computers are not to be used on the school network without permission from the Technology Department. Students are each given a CPS e-mail account and are expected to check it daily for school communication. Students are responsible for following the CPS & NCPHS Technology policies and practices as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct, the CPS Acceptable Use Policy (Appendix A) and on the NCPHS Tech Website (http://www.northsideprep.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=237843&type=d&termR EC_ID=&pREC_ID=460203)

Printing/Copying Printers/copiers are available in the library, the 3rd floor atrium, and cafeteria. Each student is credited $15.00 to his/her account per semester. The cost of b/w prints is $.10, and the cost of color prints is $.50. Students may add funds to their accounts at the library’s main desk.

Counseling The counseling department is located on the first floor. Trained staff is available to assist students with personal, academic, college, and career counseling needs. Students are assigned a counselor for their four years at Northside and are strongly encouraged to visit their counselor during lunch or other non-class time.

Support Services A school nurse, psychologist, and social worker are assigned to our school and are available to all students. Referrals for the school psychologist and social worker are made by counselors or classroom teachers.

15 College and Career Resource Center The center is housed in the counseling department and contains the latest resources to aid students with career exploration and the college admission and financial aid process. Resources include related online services, software programs, and print and audio-visual materials.

Diverse Learners Students with disabilities are provided special education services in accordance with their Individualized Education Plans. Programmatic supports allowing students with disabilities to participate in academic and extracurricular activities are overseen by the Special Education Coordinator.

Expectations of Administration, Faculty, and Staff As administrators, teachers, counselors, and other staff members, we commit to making the Northside experience one that will make a positive difference in the lives of our students. We will devote all of our energies to serving the needs of each and every student at Northside College Prep HS.

Expectations of Parents/Guardians We expect parents/guardians to support and encourage our joint effort. We expect parents/guardians to have their student in school every day, on time; to monitor their progress; and to inform us if concerns arise. If concerns arise, or if there is something that we should know that might be helpful, parents/guardians should not hesitate to call a teacher or counselor, a department chair, an assistant principal, or the principal.

If a student is experiencing difficulties, parents are encouraged to be patient and present.

We appreciate parent support and participation in the Northside Parent Network and at school athletic and co-/extra-curricular activities.

Expectations of Students We expect students to check their CPS email on a daily basis. Important information regarding events, opportunities, college and scholarship information, etc. will be distributed electronically.

We expect students to be in class every day, on time, prepared for the day’s activities. We expect that students will study an average of three hours a day preparing for classes: reading materials, writing essays, and completing assignments and projects. We expect students to dive into the Northside experience with enthusiasm, energy, and commitment. Northside is a college preparatory high school. We prepare for the future, college, and life after college; however, we suggest that Northside is more than preparation. It is life. Individually, students create a rich Northside experience for themselves and others.

Revisions and Updates Northside College Prep reserves the right to update the student handbook as needed to reflect the needs of the students and/or learning community.

16

17 Northside's Fight Song - Go, Go Mighty Mustangs Go, Go, Mighty Mustangs, The true Maroon Stampede! Go, Go Mighty Mustangs, Unbridled and free. With Mustang muscle, spirit and pride We stand for victory.

Hi Ho, Silver! Go, Maroon! Da-da-da-da (a la William Tell) Da-da-da-da Da-da-da-da-da

Go, Go Mighty Mustangs, Run on, Maroon Stampede! Unleash your strength against their best and ours is victory!

Written by Chris Pellikan

Alma Mater, Northside High

In the greater years to follow. We’ll remember Mustang Pride And our lamp unto the darkness, Alma Mater, Northside High.

Lead us on, oh Northside Prep On the road to excellence To the world in which we’ll serve Hands and hearts at very best.

Through scholarship and fellowship Our futures we have planned. Through diversity and community Our lives forever changed. And our lives forever changed.

In the greater times to follow We’ll remember Mustang Pride, Hail, our lamp unto the darkness, Alma Mater, Northside High.

Written by Chris Pellikan

18

2017-2018 School Year Important Dates to Remember

September 5 First Day of School September 12 Back-to-School Night October 9 Columbus Day October 27 Halloween Dance November 2 End of Quarter 1 November 3 School Improvement Day – No School for Students November 5 Open House November 16 Parent Teacher Conference Day November 17 - 19 NCP Fall Play November 22 - 24 Thanksgiving Holiday December 25- January 5 Winter Break January 8 School Resumes January 15 Martin Luther King Day January 18 Homecoming Dance January 29 –31 Final Exam Schedule February 1 End of Quarter 2 / Semester 1 February 2 School Improvement Day – No School for Students February 16-19 Musical February 19 Presidents’ Day March 26-30 Spring Break April 2 School Resumes April 12 End of Quarter 3 April 13 School Improvement Day – No School for Students April 19 Parent Teacher Conference Day May 28 Memorial Day June 4-5 Senior Finals June 6 Senior Luncheon June 11 Graduation June 12-14 Tentative Final Exam Schedule June 18 End Semester 2 / Last Day of School

19 APPENDIX A Chicago Public Schools Policy Manual Title: STUDENT ACCEPTABLE USE OF THE CPS NETWORK Section: 604.2 Board Report: 03-0326-PO03 Date Adopted: March 26, 2003 Policy: I. PURPOSE This policy, also referred to as the “Student Acceptable Use for Electronic Network Related Technologies and Access Policy” (“AUP”) sets forth the standards governing Chicago Public Schools (“CPS”) students’ use of the CPS Electronic Network Related Technologies and Access (“CPS Network”) system. This policy also sets forth the rules under which student authorized users may continue their access to and use of these resources. This policy promotes the ethical, legal, and school-related use of the CPS Network and ensures CPS compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Personal electronic devices will be governed under this policy when such devices are attached to the CPS network.

Authorized student use of information resources must be consistent with the educational purposes for which these resources have been provided. Use of the CPS Network is a privilege that is provided to help student authorized users complete and deliver educational obligations. The CPS Network provides student authorized users with the means for communicating effectively with schools, teachers, administrators, the public, other government entities, and educational experts. These resources should be used in a manner that both enhances students’ educational experiences and complies with this policy and regulations established from time to time by the Chicago Board of Education (“Board”). CPS students, through their use of the CPS Network, will gain skills and expertise that prepare them for an increasingly technology-oriented society.

II. DEFINITIONS A. Chicago Public Schools’ Electronic Network Related Technologies and Access (“CPS Network”) is the system of computers, terminals, servers, databases, routers, hubs, switches and distance learning equipment connected to the CPS Network. These components may function in conjunction with established hardwire or wireless LAN running over outside lines, such as T-1, BRI, PRI, VPN, Dialup, Distance Learning Equipment, owned or leased by CPS.

B. Distance Learning Equipment is a means for providing meetings, educational or professional courseware and workshops utilizing video and/or audio conferencing equipment, and/or media management systems to distribute video to individual classrooms and offices in schools.

C. Electronic Mail (e-mail) consists of all electronically transmitted information including any combinations of text, graphics, audio, pictorial, or other information created on or received by a computer application system and includes the transmission data, message text, and all attachments.

D. Internet is a worldwide telecommunications system that provides connectivity for thousands of other smaller networks.

E. Other Electronic Devices include, but are not limited to, cellular

20 telecommunication devices such as cellular phones, pagers, text communication pagers, two-way text pagers, and personal digital assistants that may or may not be physically connected to the network infrastructure.

F. Password is a secret word or series of letters and numbers that must be used to gain access to an online service or the Internet or to modify certain software (such as parental controls).

G. Student Authorized Users are any students enrolled in any classes offered by CPS in a traditional classroom or virtual classroom setting.

H. Website is a collection of "pages" or files on the Internet that are linked together and managed by a company, institution or individual.

III. GENERAL PROVISIONS

A. STUDENT AUTHORIZED USERS All student authorized users shall adhere to the provisions of this policy as a condition for continued use of the CPS Network. It is a general policy of CPS to promote the use of computers in a manner that is responsible, legal and appropriate. This policy is enacted anytime there is a connection to the Board’s hardwired or wireless network via outside lines such as T-1, BRI, PRI, VPN, Dialup, DSL, Distance Learning Equipment, Personal Digital Assistants, and other personal electronic devices.

B. DISCLAIMER Pursuant to the Children’s Internet Protection Act, CPS uses filtering software to screen Internet sites for offensive material. The Internet is a collection of thousands of worldwide networks and organizations that contain millions of pages of information. Users are cautioned that many of these pages contain offensive, sexually explicit, and inappropriate material, including, but not limited to the following categories: Adult Content; Nudity; Sex; Gambling; Violence; Weapons; Hacking; Personals/Dating; Lingerie/Swimsuit; Racism/Hate; Tasteless; and Illegal/Questionable. In general it is difficult to avoid at least some contact with this material while using the Internet. Even innocuous search requests may lead to sites with highly offensive content. Additionally, having an e-mail address on the Internet may lead to receipt of unsolicited e-mail containing offensive content. Student authorized users accessing the Internet do so at their own risk. No filtering software is one hundred percent effective and it is possible that the software could fail. In the event that the filtering software is unsuccessful and children and staff gain access to inappropriate and/or harmful material, the Board will not be liable. To minimize these risks, student use of the CPS Network is governed by this policy.

IV. TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR STUDENT USE OF THE CPS NETWORK

A. ACCEPTABLE USES CPS students may use the various resources provided by the CPS Network to pursue educationally-related activities. Teachers and other staff should help guide students in their use of the CPS Network so that students will learn how Internet resources such as discussion boards, instant messaging and chat rooms can provide

21 valuable educational information from classrooms, schools, and other national and international sources. In addition to using the CPS Network strictly for educational pursuits, students will be expected to follow generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Be polite. Do not become abusive in your messages to others.

2. Use appropriate language. Do not swear or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.

3. Keep personal information, including the logins, passwords, addresses, and telephone numbers of students or colleagues confidential.

4. Use these resources so as not to disrupt service to other student authorized users.

5. Do not upload, post, e-mail, transmit, or otherwise make available any content that is unlawful, dangerous or may cause a security risk.

B. UNACCEPTABLE USES

Improper use of the CPS Network is prohibited. Actions that constitute unacceptable uses of the CPS Network and are not specifically addressed elsewhere in this policy include, but are not limited to:

1. Use of the CPS Network for, or in support of, any illegal purposes.

2. Use of the CPS Network for, or in support of, any obscene or pornographic purposes including, but not limited to, the retrieving or viewing of any sexually explicit material. If a student authorized user inadvertently accesses such information, he or she should immediately disclose the inadvertent access to a teacher or to the school principal. This will protect the user against allegations of intentionally violating this policy.

3. Use of the CPS Network for soliciting or distributing information with the intent to incite violence, cause personal harm or bodily injury, or to harass or “stalk” another individual.

4. Non-educational uses of the CPS Network including, but not limited to games, wagering, gambling, junk mail, chain letters, jokes, private business activities, raffles, fundraisers, religious activities or political lobbying.

5. Making a statement of policy, either expressly or by implication, except for messages that quote policies, Board Rules, procedures, documents published by CPS, or other official sources.

6. Using Internet tools such as discussion boards, chat rooms, and instant messaging for personal rather than educational purposes.

22 7. Using profanity, obscenity or language that is generally considered offensive or threatening to persons of a particular race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or to persons with disabilities.

8. Plagiarizing any information gained on or through use of the CPS Network or any other network access provider.

9. Using copyrighted materials, including commercial software, without permission of the copyright holder, and in violation of state, federal or international copyright laws. (If students are unsure whether or not they are using materials in violation of copyright provisions, they should ask their teachers or a school technology coordinator for assistance. School based personnel are encouraged to contact the Office of Technology Services if they have questions regarding use of copyright materials found through the CPS Network.)

10. Violating of any provision of the Illinois School Student Records Act (105 ILCS 10/1et seq.), which governs students' rights to privacy and the confidential maintenance of certain information including, but not limited to, a student's grades and test scores is prohibited.

11. Using the CPS Network for financial gain or for the transaction of any business or commercial activities.

C. SECURITY

All student authorized users are to report promptly any breaches of security violations of acceptable use and the transmission of web addresses or e-mail information containing inappropriate material (as outlined in Section III B of this policy) to their teacher or the school principal. Authorized personnel will report such breaches to the Area Instructional Officer or designee or the Chief Technology Officer or designee of the Chicago Public Schools. Failure to report any incident promptly may subject the student authorized user to corrective action consistent with the Uniform Discipline Code (“UDC”), Board’s rules, and policies.

In order to maintain the security of the CPS System, students are prohibited from engaging in the following actions:

1. Connecting to a modem to dial into any online service provider, or Internet Service Provider (“ISP”) or connect through a Digital Subscriber Line (“DSL”) while physically being connected to the CPS Network where a T-1 line is functioning.

2. Intentionally disrupting the use of the CPS Network for other users, including, but not limited to, disruptive use of any processes or programs, sharing logins and passwords or utilizing tools for ascertaining passwords, or engaging in “hacking” of any kind, which is an illegal or unlawful entry into an electronic system to gain secret unauthorized information.

23 3. Intentionally spreading computer viruses or programs that loop repeatedly, or for the purpose of infiltrating a computer system without authorization or for damaging or altering without authorization the software components of a computer or computer system.

4. Disclosing the contents or existence of CPS computer files, confidential documents, e-mail correspondence, or other information to anyone other than authorized recipients. Student authorized users must not share logins or password(s) and unauthorized information regarding other users' passwords or security systems.

5. Downloading unauthorized games, programs, files, electronic media, and/or stand-alone applications from the Internet that may cause a threat to the CPS Network.

V. STUDENT WEBSITES

1. Educational Purposes

Student authorized users may create webpages as a part of a class activity. Material presented on a student’s class activity website must meet the educational objectives of the class activity. CPS has the right to exercise control over the content and/or style of the student webpages.

Only those students whose parent(s) or guardian(s) have completed the attached Consent Form and Release (Attachment A) may post their work or picture on student or school websites. Students whose work, likeness (as captured by photograph, video or other media) or voices are presented on a student website shall be identified by first name only for confidentiality and safety purposes.

2. Website Development

Students designing websites should go to www.schoolhosting.cps.k12.il.us for the directions and procedures they need to follow in developing their websites.

VI. MONITORING

The CPS Network is routinely monitored to maintain the efficiency of the system. Student authorized users should be aware that use of the CPS Network, including their use of e-mail, is subject to reasonable and appropriate monitoring by OTS that abides by the requirements of all applicable state and federal laws. Any activities related to or in support of violations of this policy and/or the UDC may be reported and will subject the user to sanctions specified either in the UDC or in this policy.

VII. ASSUMPTION OF RISK

CPS will make a good faith effort to keep the CPS Network system and its available information accurate. However, student authorized users acknowledge that there is no

24 warranty of any kind, either express or implied, regarding the accuracy, quality, or validity of any of the data or information available. For example, and without limitation, CPS does not warrant that the CPS Network will be error free or free of computer viruses. In making use of these resources, student authorized users agree to release the Board from all claims of any kind, including claims for direct or indirect, incidental, or consequential damages of any nature, arising from any use or inability to use the network, and from any claim for negligence in connection with the operation of the CPS Network. Student authorized users further acknowledge that the information available through interconnecting networks may be inaccurate. CPS has no ability to maintain such information and has no authority over these materials. CPS makes no warranty of any kind, either express or implied, regarding the accuracy, quality, or validity of the data and/or information residing on or passing through the CPS Network from outside networks. Use of the CPS Network is at the risk of the student authorized user.

VIII. INDEMNIFICATION

The student authorized user indemnifies and holds the Board harmless from any claims, including attorney's fees, resulting from the user's activities while utilizing the CPS Network that cause direct or indirect damage to the user, CPS, or third parties.

IX. SANCTIONS

Failure to abide by this policy may subject the student authorized user to corrective action ranging from suspension of some or all access privileges up to and including expulsion and prosecutions according to the UDC. A violator must understand that if his or her privileges to use the CPS Network are revoked by a school faculty member that he or she has the right to appeal the revocation within thirty (30) days, in writing, to the principal of the school. The school principal's decision shall be FINAL.

If a student authorized user’s access to the CPS Network is suspended by CPS Network administrators as a result of violations of this policy, the student may appeal the suspension to the Chief Education Officer or designee.

A violator must understand that if he or she is removed from the CPS Network, there shall be no obligation to provide a subsequent opportunity to access the CPS Network.

25 ATTACHMENT A CONSENT FORM AND RELEASE School ______Date ______Board of Education City of Chicago

I hereby consent to have ______(full name and relation) photographed, videotaped, audio taped and/or interviewed by the Board of Education of the City of Chicago (the "Board") or the news media on the school premises when school is in session or when my child is under the supervision of the Board. Additionally, I hereby give the Board consent to use creative work(s) generated and/or authored by my child on the Internet, or on an educational CD, or any other electronic/digital media. I understand that my child will be identified by first name only, for confidentiality purposes, as the author of said work.

I also consent to the Board’s use of my child's photograph or likeness or voice on the Internet or on an Educational CD or any other electronic/digital media. As the child's parent or legal guardian, I agree to release and hold harmless the Board, its members, trustees, agents, officers, contractors, volunteers and employees from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, complaints, suits or other forms of liability that shall arise out of or by reason of, or be caused by the use of my child's creative work(s), photograph, likeness or voice on television, radio or motion pictures, or in the print medium, or on the Internet or any other electronic/digital medium.

It is further understood and I do agree that no monies or other consideration in any form, including reimbursement for any expenses incurred by me or my child, will become due to me, my child, our heirs, agents, or assigns at any time because of my child's participation in any of the above activities or the above-described use of my child's creative work(s), photograph, likeness or voice.

Child's Name ______Address ______

______Signature of Parent or Guardian ______Principal's Signature

Amends/Rescinds: Rescinds 02-0626-PO04 and 97-0325-PO2 Cross References: Legal References: 105 ILCS 10/1 et seq. (Illinois Student Records Act); Pub. L. No. 106-554 (Children’s Internet Protection Act).

26