SELMA CITY SCHOOLS
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
2014 – 2015
Dr. Larry DiChiara, Acting Superintendent
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TABLE OF CONTENTS I. OVERVIEW ...... 2 II. SCHOOL LISTINGS...... 5 III. SCHOOL CALENDAR ...... 6 IV. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS OR GUARDIANS ...... 7 V. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS ...... 9 VI. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF SELMA CITY SCHOOLS ...... 10 VII. RESPONSIBILITIES OF TEACHERS, ATTENDANCE AND TRUANCY OFFICERS ... 12 VIII. CLASSIFICATION OF VIOLATIONS ...... 13 IX. FORMAL DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS AND PROCEDURES ...... 19 X. PROCEDURES FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION . 21 XI. PARENTAL NOTIFICATION OF CIVIL LIABILITIES AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES ...... 26 XII. SCHOOL ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS ...... 27 XIII. ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES ...... 30 XIV. SELMA CITY SCHOOLS EARLY WARNING TRUANCY PROGRAM ...... 33 XV. ATTENDANCE/DRIVER’S LICENSE/LEARNER’S PERMIT...... 33 XVI. SAFE SCHOOLS ENVIRONMENT CONDUCIVE TO LEARNING ...... 36 XVII. LAWS RELATE TO CIVIL LIABILITIES AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES FOR VIOLENCE OR OTHER MISBEHAVIOR BY STUDENTS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY OR AGAINST SCHOOL EMPLOYEES ...... 39 XVIII. SELMA CITY SCHOOLS POLICIES FOR SAFE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTS ...... 41 XIX. ANTI-HARASSMENT POLICY……………………………………………………………….46 XX. EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE ...... 49 XXI. THE INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY ...... …………51 XXII. UNIVERSAL DRESS CODE ...... 56 XXIII. GUIDELINES FOR RELEASE OF STUDENT EDUCATION RECORDS AND DIRECTORY INFORMATION ...... 59 I. Overview
The Selma City School System offers a public education for students in grades pre-kindergarten through twelfth with a rigorous curriculum that includes a gifted/enrichment course for elementary students and an accelerated honors program for middle and high school students.
2 Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered at Selma High through the distance-learning program. Dual enrollment is available at the local community college, Wallace Community College Selma. The system consists of eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, and one alternative program. Program enrollment is approximately 4,000. The system is accredited by the Alabama Department of Education and by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Notice of Non-discrimination
The following notice of non-discrimination meets the minimum requirements of the regulations enforced by OCR [Title IX: 34 CFR 106.9; Section 504:34 CFR 104.8; Title IX: 34 CFR 106.8; Section 504:34 CFR 104.7(a)].
Selma City Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.
Vision
The Selma City School System will be a world-class learning institution that promotes excellence in education.
Mission
The Selma City Schools System’s mission is to provide a nurturing environment which promotes academic excellence as we prepare our students to compete in a global society.
Goals
Devise and teach a challenging, diverse curriculum to enable all students to graduate from high school and achieve high educational and career goals.
Provide fair and consistent leadership that is knowledgeable, organized, and accountable and that is marked by steady discipline and clear policies and procedures.
Increase active parent support and positive community involvement.
Provide the empowerment, support, and incentives that will enable the system to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers and other personnel.
3 Provide the resources, programs, and support to develop good student health, keep students safe, and teach discipline.
4 II. School Listings
Elementary Schools Byrd First Class Pre-K 625 Lapsley Street 874-1620 Learning Center Cedar Park Elementary 1101 Woodrow Avenue 874-1625
Clark Elementary 405 Lawrence Street 874-1630
Edgewood Elementary 709 Highland Avenue 874-1640
Sophia P. Kingston Elementary 2224 Selma Avenue 874-1635
Knox Elementary 1002 Mabry Street 874-1650
Meadowview Elementary 1816 Old Orrville Road 874-1655
Payne Elementary 1529 North Franklin Street 874-1660
Middle Schools School of Discovery Genesis Center 400 Washington Street 874-1670
R.B. Hudson Middle School 1701 Summerfield Road 874-1675
Secondary School Selma High School 2180 Broad Street 874-1680
Alternative Program
Phoenix Alternative 501 Plant Street 876-4428
Acting Superintendent Dr. Larry DiChiara 2194 Broad Street 874-1600
Board of Education Meetings
Parents and interested citizens are invited to attend meetings of the Selma City Board of Education. The work sessions are scheduled the first Thursday of each month and the monthly Board meetings are scheduled on the second Tuesday of each month. Meeting locations and times are publicly announced.
5 III. School Calendar Selma City Schools
2014-2015 School Calendar
2014
July 22 ...... Tuesday………Ten/Eleven-Month Employees Return August 4-5 ...... Monday & Tuesday…….Orientation (New Employees) August 6...... Wednesday……………….Professional Development August 7……………………………………... Thursday……………………………Teacher Institute August 8 ...... Friday...... Teacher Work Day/Registration August 11 ...... Monday…………………………First Day for Students September 1 ...... Monday...... Labor Day (Schools Closed) November 11 ...... Tuesday...... Veteran's Day (Schools Closed) November 26-28 ...... Wed.-Friday.....Thanksgiving Holidays (Schools Closed) December 19 ...... Friday...... End of First Semester
2015
January 6 ...... Tuesday...... Schools Reopen January 19 ...... Monday...... Dr. M. L. King's Birthday (Schools Closed) February 16…………………………………… Monday……….President’s Day Holiday (School Closed) March 23-27…………………………………...Monday-Friday...... Spring Break (Schools Closed) May 21 ...... Thursday...... Last Day for Students May 25 ...... Monday...... Memorial Day (Schools Closed)
May 27 ...... Wednesday...... Last Day for Teachers
First Semester 90 Days Ends December 19, 2014 Second Semester 90 Days Ends May 21, 2015 Student Attendance Days 180 Days Instructional Assistant Duty Days 182 Days Teacher Duty Days 187 Days
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IV. Rights and Responsibilities of Parents or Guardians
Parents or guardians must recognize that under Alabama Law 16-28-2, discipline is primarily their responsibility and that the influence of the home will be reflected in the conduct of the student while attending school.
Rights
Parents or guardians have a right to the following: to expect quality in the instructional program to expect students to be treated with dignity as individuals to be granted an opportunity for a public education for students to participate in appropriate school programs to be granted access to and explanation/clarification of school records, as appropriate To be granted procedural due process for students. to request and be granted a conference with the teacher and/or principal within a reasonable amount of time to obtain regular official reports of students’ progress to be notified by the principal or a designee when their child has been taken from the school by the Police Department or the Department of Human Resources
Responsibilities
Parents or guardians have a responsibility to do the following: to help foster an environment in and out of school that nurtures quality in education to encourage students to respect the rights and individuality of others to ensure students’ prompt and regular compliance with attendance rules and other procedures necessary for the best possible orderly education to work with the school in the best interest of the students to comply with all provisions of the law to support the school by following the appropriate procedures to provide the school with the correct address, telephone number, and emergency contact information, especially if this information changes during the school year to ensure that the school can contact the home by removing phone blocks from school numbers to attend necessary conferences each year to attend PTO meetings regularly
7 to work with the school to see that students complete school assignments to achieve the highest possible performance rating to talk with students about school activities, plan a time and place for schoolwork assignments, and provide necessary supervision to ensure that the student leaves for school in a complete and proper uniform every day to ensure that the student has the supplies and assignments necessary for each school day to accompany the student into the school building and sign the student into school personally if the student arrives late to enter the building and sign the student out if the student must leave school early Parents/guardians/designated adults must provide a valid picture ID and be on the student’s approved checkout list in order to remove a student from the school. to have the student at school on time to send a written note to the school to verify your student’s absence from school A satisfactory note from a parent/guardian meets the following State guidelines for an excused absence: personal illness with parent/guardian excuse personal illness with a doctor’s statement death in the immediate family weather preventing attendance (would endanger student’s health) legal requirements, such as subpoena or other required court appearance prior permission by the principal at the request of parent or guardian legal quarantine The note or doctor’s excuse must be sent to school within three (3) days of the student’s return to school to be counted as an excused absence. A written note from parents or guardians, as described above, will excuse a maximum of ten (10) absences during the school year. Further absences will require a written excuse from a medical professional or court official. All excuses must be presented within three (3) days of the absence. The high school principal may deny course credit or subject credit to a student if the number of unexcused absences exceeds four (4) on an 18-week block schedule and two (2) on a nine- week block schedule. Further absences will require a written excuse from a medical professional or court official. All excuses must be presented within three (3) days of the absence.
Parents or guardians of any student having a chronic ailment that may cause the student to miss school during the year are required to provide the school with a medical professional’s statement verifying the student’s condition at the beginning of the school year. The statement shall reflect the nature of the student’s illness, and state that the student may have to miss school from time to time due to this illness. Failure of parent/guardian to provide the school with a chronic ailment statement can result in an unexcused absence accumulation, loss of course credit and a referral to Juvenile Court.
Parents or guardians should avoid interruptions of the academic day by scheduling medical appointments and vacations at times that will not require the student to miss school. Students
8 are required to remain at school for the entire school day. Excused absences for family vacations are strongly discouraged and will be permitted only if there are unusual circumstances that, within the principal’s discretion, merit an excused absence. Further, an excused absence will not be granted unless the parent obtains permission from the principal before the absence.
V. Rights and Responsibilities of Students
Students must recognize that rights bring on responsibilities. They must share an equal load in ensuring that our schools have an atmosphere for learning and achieving at the highest level.
Rights
Students have a right to the following: to an appropriate public education to due process to confidentiality of records to equal treatment regardless of race, sex, creed, color, religion, national origin, or disability to fundamental guarantees of free speech, press, and assembly as long as they do not infringe on the rights of others or interfere with the orderly operation of the school program to fair and reasonable punishment with regard to the nature and seriousness of the offense to receive all educational services provided by the system to enhance educational pursuits for which they qualify to participate in student organizations authorized and sponsored by the school provided the student meets the established criteria to privacy, subject to the right of school officials to inspect and confiscate in order to protect students and school property and to ensure the safe and orderly operation of the school to an explanation of any grades or progress reports given and to a school environment conducive to effective and meaningful learning experiences.
Responsibilities
Students have the responsibility to do the following: respect all school board employees and any other adults in authority. respect the rights, property and privileges of others. be aware of laws and local/school rules and policies regarding free speech, press, and assembly. exhibit a sense of fairness, honesty, loyalty, obedience, courtesy, pride, and trustworthiness. strive for academic excellence. be knowledgeable of and follow the Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook which will specify appropriate student behaviors.
9 dress and be well groomed according to the uniform dress code policy. be prepared and on time every school day and every class period in order to maximize educational opportunities. present a valid excuse for all absences from school or class within three (3) days of the absences and request make-up work after being absent. follow proper check-in and check-out procedures.
VI. Rights and Responsibilities of Selma City Schools
The Selma City School System exists to educate school-aged children whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) resides in the city of Selma, Alabama. Officials of the Selma City Schools are responsible for providing facilities, faculty, and programs designed to educate its students.
Rights of School Board Employees
Employees of the Selma City School System have the right to: Work and teach in a safe setting where order and discipline are maintained. Use appropriate means of discipline as prescribed by the City School Board of Selma to maintain order. Be immune from harassment as well as civil and criminal liability for actions authorized by Section 16-29-A of the Alabama Code regarding student discipline and behavior. Confiscate items banned by law or The Selma City Schools Code of Student Conduct and local school student handbook and either retain the item until retrieved by the parent/guardian or turn the item over to the police. Note: Neither the school nor school personnel accept liability for items confiscated. Act in loco parentis (in place of the parent) during the school day, or at any time when the school is responsible for the safety of students.
Responsibilities of School Board Employees
Employees of the Selma City School System have the responsibility to do the following:
Adhere to school board policies and procedures.
Should notify parents of their obligation to enroll their child in school, to compel them to attend school regularly, and to conduct himself or herself properly as a student.
Make available to parents techniques and suggestions which enable them to better supervise the schoolwork and educational activities of their children.
10 Refer students with academic or behavior problems to the problem solving team and make every effort to utilize the plan developed by that team for student success.
Provide the necessary qualified personnel to meet the academic, behavior and safety needs of all students.
In addition to the above responsibilities, the principal or designee has the responsibility of notifying parents/guardians when law enforcement or social service agencies have taken their child from the school. Note: At no time shall administrators or school personnel interfere with the above stated performing their duties.
11 VII. Responsibilities of Teachers, Attendance and Truancy Officer Responsibilities of Teachers
Teachers shall be responsible for checking the rolls daily in their assigned classes and properly recording the students’ attendance in STI. This duty may not be delegated to a student.
The teacher will follow the Early Warning Truancy Program Procedures (See Page 31).
Responsibilities of Attendance/Truancy Officer
No earlier than the third (3rd) unexcused absence or the fourth (4th) unexcused tardy or early checkout, the attendance officer, shall make contact with the parent/guardian by U.S. Mail or telephone. The purpose of this contact is to inform the parent/guardian of the student’s academic/attendance status and possible consequences.
Attendance/Truancy officer will make referrals each semester to the Early Warning Truancy Program no earlier than the third (3rd) unexcused absence or the fourth (4th) unexcused tardy or early checkout of a student.
Attendance officer may make referrals to Juvenile Court for prosecution in the following situations:
If the student was previously referred to the Early Warning Truancy Program, he/she may be referred to Juvenile Court for prosecution when there have been additional absences/tardies/checkouts since his/her referral to the Early Warning Truancy Program, depending on the circumstances.
If the student has seven (7) or more unexcused absences.
12 VIII. Classification of Violations
Violations of the Code of Student Conduct will follow the state code for reporting purposes and are grouped into three categories for local school purposes: Class I or minor offenses, Class II or intermediate offenses, and Class III or major offenses.
Each classification is followed by a list of offenses and appropriate disciplinary actions that are to be carried out by principals and their designees. In each class of violations, it is understood that the principal (or designee) shall hear the student’s explanation regarding the alleged violation before deciding the classification of a violation. The principal (or designee) may consult further with school personnel and others, if necessary, before deciding the classification of the violation.
The administrator or designee must provide due process. No student shall be punished for any suspected violation until the person responsible for imposing discipline has heard the student’s explanation or made reasonable efforts to provide the student with an opportunity to present his/her explanation.
Each classroom teacher is expected to correct general classroom disruptions by doing the following: developing a classroom management plan taking in-class disciplinary action making a personal call to a student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) when possible scheduling conferences with other school staff, parent(s) or guardian(s) referring student(s) experiencing behavior problems to the problem solving team documenting all offenses involving this Code of Student Conduct
Only when actions taken by the teacher have proven ineffective, or the disruption is sufficiently severe should the student be referred to the principal (or designee). For example, failure to bring notebook, pencil, books or required materials and equipment to class is not cause for disciplinary referral. When a student consistently exhibits such work habits, the teacher should notify the students’ parent(s) or guardian(s).
Under no circumstances should academic grades be used for maintaining order in a classroom, nor should student behavior be included in calculating academic grades. An academic grade should reflect the teacher’s most objective assessment of the student’s academic achievement.
Under no circumstances should attendance be used as the basis for a suspension. The student should be referred to the attendance officer for absences, tardies, or early checkouts that constitute truancy.
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CODE LOCAL VIOLATIONS/MINOR INFRACTIONS -- CLASS I Local – Excessive distraction of other students – behavior disruptive to the orderly 1.01 educational process in the classroom Local – Unauthorized organizations – Any on-campus activities of fraternities, 1.02 sororities, secret societies or non-affiliated school clubs Local – Intimidation of a student - intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do 1.03 harm to another student Local – Participation in games of chance for money and/or other things of value and/or 1.04 playing of cards Local – Excessive tardiness – to school or class 1.05 Local – Use of profane or obscene language 1.06 Local – Non-conformity to dress code 1.07 Local – Minor disruption on a school bus 1.08 Local – Inappropriate public display of affection – including embracing and kissing 1.09 Local – Unauthorized absence from class or school 1.10 Local – Intentionally providing false information to a School Board employee 1.11 Local – Continued refusal to complete class assignments 1.12 Local – Failure to follow instructions 1.13 Local – Violation of Internet Ethical Use Policy 1.16 Local – Vandalism – less than $200 in damage to public property or the real or personal 1.17 property of another Local – Tussles – includes all physical contact other than fighting or assault 1.18 Local – Plagiarism, cheating and/or dishonesty 1.19 Local – Any other violation which the principal may deem to reasonably fall within this 1.20 category after considering extenuating circumstances.
CODE DISCIPLINE CONSEQUENCES -- CLASS I
14 S99-1 Student/Teacher Conference S99-2 Student/Principal Conference S99-3 Parent Conference S99-4 Parent Notification S99-5 Detention S99-6 Suspension from Riding the School Bus S99-7 Loss of School or Classroom Privileges S99-8 Administrator’s Discretion SIR1 Out-of-School Suspension SIR2 Alternative Program/School – for use with students with disabilities only SIR7 Corporal Punishment SIR11 In-School Suspension - (ISS) CODE INTERMEDIATE VIOLATIONS – CLASS II Vandalism – last than $200 in damage to public property or the real or personal property of another Tussles – includes all physical contact other than fighting or assault Bullying – includes all physical contact or verbal communication other than harassment Plagiarism, cheating and/or dishonesty State-09 Defiance Authority – willful disobedience of a direct order of instruction from a school board employee State-10 Disobedience – reoccurring, intentional violation of the code of student conduct State-11 Disorderly Conduct – any act that substantially disrupts the orderly conduct of a school function State-12 Disruptive Demonstration – consisting of five or more participants who, in a course of a demonstration cause substantial harm or serious inconvenience State-16 Electronic Pagers, cell phones, beepers, MP3 players, iPods, etc. State-19 Gambling State-20 Harassment – intent is to harass, annoy, intimidate, or alarm another person, either socially, physically or emotionally State-22 Inciting Others – leading, encouraging, or assisting in a major disturbance State-26 Profanity or Vulgar State-31 Threats/Intimidation – intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to a school board employee State-32 Tobacco, Possession State-33 Tobacco, Sale State-34 Tobacco, Use State-35 Trespassing State-36 Truancy
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CODE DISCIPLINE CONSEQUENCES -- CLASS II S99-1 Student/Teacher Conference S99-2 Student/Principal Conference S99-3 Parent Conference S99-4 Parent Notification S99-5 Detention S99-6 Suspension from Riding the School Bus S99-7 Loss of School or Classroom Privileges S99-8 Administrator’s Discretion S99-9 Assigned Work duties or physical activity SIR1 Out-of-School Suspension SIR2 Alternative Program/School – for use with students with disabilities only SIR3 Expulsion for a limited period of time SIR4 Expulsion (Services Provided) – use only for students with disabilities SIR5 Removal by a Hearing Officer – due process officer orders the removal of a student SIR6 IAES (Interim Alternative Education Setting) - school personnel orders the removal of a student with disabilities SIR7 Corporal Punishment SIR 8 Permanent Expulsion SIR11 In-School Suspension - all Student Adjustment Programs (SAP) SIR12 Pending Due Process Hearing
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CODE MAJOR OFFENSES VIOLATIONS – CLASS III Local-3.01 Gang-related activities - participation in gang-related activities including but not limited to graffiti, colors, symbols, signs, clothes, and language State-01 Alcohol Possession State-02 Alcohol Sale State-03 Alcohol Use State-04 Arson State-05 Assault Sate-06 Bomb Threat State-07 Burglary State-08 Criminal Mischief – vandalism over $200 in damages State-13 Drugs, Possession State-14 Drugs, Sale State-15 Drugs, Use State-17 Fighting (serious offensives only) State-18 Fire Alarm State-21 Homicide State-23 Kidnapping State-24 Larceny/Theft State-25 Motor Vehicle Theft State-27 Robbery State-28 Sexual Battery State-29 Sexual Harassment State-37 Handgun, Possession State-38 Handgun, Sale State-39 Handgun, Use State-40 Rifle, Possession State-41 Rifle, Sale State-42 Rifle, Use State-43 Firearm, Possession State-44 Firearm, Sale State-45 Firearm, Use State-46 Explosive, Possession State-47 Explosive, Sale
17 State-48 Explosive, Use State-49 Weapon, Possession State-50 Weapon, Sale State-51 Weapon, Use State-52 Knife, Possession State-53 Knife, Sale State-54 Knife, Use State-55 Other, Possession State-56 Other, Sale State-57 Other, Use State-58 Other Incidents CODE DISCIPLINE CONSEQUENCES --CLASS III S99-1 Student/Teacher Conference S99-2 Student/Principal Conference S99-3 Parent Conference S99-4 Parent Notification S99-5 Detention S99-6 Suspension from Riding the School Bus S99-7 Loss of School or Classroom Privileges S99-8 Administrator’s Discretion S99-9 Assigned Work duties or physical activity SIR1 Out-of-School Suspension SIR2 Alternative Program/School – for use with students with disabilities only SIR3 Expulsion for a limited period of time SIR4 Expulsion (Services Provided) – use only for students with disabilities SIR5 Removal by a Hearing Officer – due process officer orders the removal of a student SIR6 IAES (Interim Alternative Education Setting) – school personnel orders the removal of a student with disabilities SIR7 Corporal Punishment SIR 8 Permanent Expulsion SIR11 In-School Suspension - all Student Adjustment Programs (SAP) SIR12 Pending Due Process Hearing
18 IX. Formal Disciplinary Actions and Procedures
After-School Detention Hall
The principal or his/her designee(s) has the authority to assign students to a designated room (detention hall) on campus at the end of the regular school day for a reasonable and specified period of time as a disciplinary action. The parent or guardian is responsible for providing transportation in these cases. A reasonable attempt will be made to notify the parent or guardian prior to the student serving his/her time in detention. The student will remain after school the following day.
Disciplinary Probation
Disciplinary probation is a period of time specified by the principal or his/her designee(s) during which a student must correct his/her behavior while abiding by all regulations that govern student behavior. The principal or his/her designee (s) has the authority to place a student on disciplinary probation for a reasonable and specified period of time (i.e. revoking club privileges, school clubs and athletics). The staff members involved in the actions will assist in monitoring the student's adjustment to the school environment. The principal and/or appropriate central office staff will establish probation standards that will describe the conditions under which the student will correct his/her behavior. School counseling, parental involvement, and other forms of assistance will be part of the probation agreement.
In-School Suspension Program
In-school suspension is a structured form of discipline in which a student is isolated or removed from regular classroom activities but not dismissed from the school setting. The principal or his/her designee(s) has the authority to assign students to the in-school suspension program for a reasonable and specified time. The principals and staffs should determine the scope of in-school suspension in their respective schools. Students assigned to in-school suspension (middle and high) three or more times per each nine week period will be automatically referred to the Alternative Program Committee.
Alternative Placement
The middle and high school administrators may refer a student to the Phoenix Alternative Program via the Alternative Program Committee for Class III and repeated Class II Violations for up to 45 days. The Alternative Program Committee will review all referrals for alternative placement. In addition, the committee will review individual referrals for a possible ten day placement in the Alternative Program.
Writing Assignments
Repetitive writing of sentences as a consequence for violating school rules will not be used. If writing assignments are used as a disciplinary action, they will be used as a teaching and learning
19 tool. For example, a student may be required to write an essay on discipline or appropriate behavior in the classroom, or he/she may be required to write a plan on how to correct his/her behavior.
Work Assignments
The principal or his/her designee(s) has the authority to assign supervised activities related to the upkeep and maintenance of school facilities as a disciplinary action for a reasonable and specified period of time. Work assignments are not intended to interfere with any student's regular class schedule. The parent/guardian will be notified prior to the student's placement in a work assignment.
School Bus Suspensions
The principal or his/her designee(s) has the authority to deny a student the privilege of riding a school bus based on the student's misconduct while on the school bus. This action will be for a reasonable and specified period of time.
Seclusion and Restraint of All Students
The Board of Education prohibits the use of seclusion, mechanical restraint, physical restraint, and chemical restraint as those terms are defined in State Board of Education Rule 290-3-1.02 (1)(f). See Selma City Schools’ Policy Manual for kinds of restraint definitions.
Corporal Punishment
When disciplinary actions require the use of corporal punishment as a corrective technique, the student will be informed of the reason for the punishment and will be given an opportunity to explain his/her actions prior to the administration of the corporal punishment. The student's refusal to accept corporal punishment will be deemed a Class III offense and treated accordingly.
If corporal punishment must be used, it must be administered by the principal, assistant principal or principal's designee(s) and must be reasonably administered without anger or malice and shall not be administered in the visual presence of other students. One certificated witness, preferably the same sex of the offender, should be present during the administering of corporal punishment. For each incident of corporal punishment, the principal will prepare a written report to be kept on file. Suspension
Suspension is defined as the temporary removal of a student from a school for violation of school policies, rules or regulations, or otherwise causing interference with or disruption of the orderly operations of the school. The school principal or his/her designee(s) has the authority to suspend a student from school. Suspensions will be enacted in accordance with the prescribed policy procedures. Suspensions will be viewed as serious, and the student will be removed from the school immediately. If there are extenuating circumstances that prohibit the student's immediate
20 removal from school, the principal or his/her designee(s) will assume full responsibility for the student until he/she is removed. Students violating policies concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, or physical harm to a person shall automatically be suspended. The student will also be prohibited from such policies as being readmitted to school until any criminal charges are disposed of and all other requirements for readmission established by the local school board are satisfied. Principals are required to notify law enforcement of violations.
Expulsion
Expulsion is defined as the removal of the right and obligation of a student to attend public school under conditions set by the School Board. The principal has the final authority to recommend the expulsion of a student to the superintendent's office. (Policy Manual 6.18)
X. Procedures for the Administration of Suspension and Expulsion
Students shall be treated with fairness in all discipline matters and shall be accorded procedural due process when the discipline measures of corporal punishment, short and long term suspension, or expulsion are applied. Before punishing a student for violation of a board policy or local school rule and regulation, the local school principal or designee shall insure that students are accorded appropriate due process.
Special Education Students
Prior to administering any of the discipline measures noted above to a special education student, said student’s school Individualized Education Program Team (IEP Team) determines if the behavior is connected to the disability. In the event it is determined that the student’s behavior is not related to the disability and the IEP Team determines such discipline measures as appropriate, the student shall be treated as any other student. Corporal punishment, suspension or recommendation for expulsion may be used as discipline measures. However, upon reviewing the student’s IEP, should it be determined that the student’s behavior or the IEP does not specify the discipline measures as appropriate, then such discipline measures shall not be administered to the student without convening the IEP Team to reconsider the use of one of the discipline measures noted above. In the event long term suspension (more than 10 school days) or expulsion is used as discipline measures, alternative educational opportunities shall be provided to a special education student during the terms of such suspension or expulsion.
Due Process Procedures for Suspensions
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When a student is facing possible corporal punishment or suspension, the principal or designee shall ensure that the following due process procedures are provided to the student:
The student shall be given oral or written notice of the charge(s) against him/her. The evidence supporting the charge(s) shall be explained to the student. The student shall be given an opportunity to present his/her own version of the facts concerning the charge(s).
The disciplinary authority (principal) may immediately impose an appropriate disciplinary measure, in accordance with Board guidelines, following the due process procedures stated previously.
Terms
During the suspension period, suspended students may not attend school functions or enter school property for any reason during the school day including after school activities.
When a student is suspended, his/her teacher must be notified immediately concerning the date of suspension and the number of days suspended. Teachers are required to give make-up work to students who are suspended from school. A time line of two weeks or the end of a grading period, whichever comes first, is allowed for makeup work, unless the end of the grading period coincides with the absence so closely that a hardship is created for the student.
A student who has been suspended from school is not eligible to enroll in any other school in the system until such time that he/she is reinstated at the school from which he/she was suspended. The superintendent or his/her designee(s) and the principal will discuss student transfers.
Re-admission
When a student returns to school after suspension, the readmission must be preceded by a conference with the principal, his/her designee(s), and/or the superintendent. The conference must include the parent or guardian and student unless otherwise approved by the principal.
Probation officers, social workers and other appropriate representatives must accompany an adjudicated (has been to court) or an aftercare (detention) student to the principal’s office when such a student seeks enrollment or re-enrollment in any school in the system. This process will assist school officials in student accounting as well as build support for the student. The student will be readmitted by the principal or his/her designee(s) and given a re-admission slip to return to class.
Expulsion of Students
Authority
22 The school principal is initially responsible for determining that an offense for which expulsion may be warranted has been committed. In accordance with Alabama state law regarding compulsory attendance, The Selma City School Board makes the final decision on an expulsion recommendation.
Immediately following an incident or violation of school regulations which may result in a recommendation by the principal to expel a student, the principal is authorized to suspend the student for a period not to exceed ten (10) days pending a hearing for expulsion. After a review of the principal's recommendation, the superintendent may determine that no disciplinary action is needed. Additionally, the superintendent may decide that the disciplinary action other than expulsion is warranted because of extenuating circumstances, or decide to recommend expulsion of the student (Policy Manual 6.18).
Due Process Procedures . Principal recommends student for expulsion. Principal provides file containing current suspension form and supporting documentation. The superintendent will convene an expulsion hearing with student, parent, witnesses, school officials, board members, and others who will be testifying. The superintendent will make a recommendation to the board. The board of education upholds or dismisses the expulsion.
Terms
The expulsion of a student will prohibit the student from attending any school in the Selma City School System during the period of the expulsion A student may lose his/her academic credit if he/she is expelled prior to taking grading period or semester examinations. he/she is removed from the school attendance roll through the expulsion process.
A student may not request make-up work if he/she is expelled from school. A student may not attend extra-curricular activities after school hours that are described as public activities such as football, baseball, volleyball, basketball or tennis games. Any student who is expelled may not visit or otherwise be in attendance on any school campus in the system during the school day including after school activities while he/she is expelled from the school.
Re-admission
The Board shall have no obligation to re-admit or consider for re-admission any student who has been permanently expelled from school. A student who has been expelled may submit a written request to be considered for re-admission, following the procedures outlined in Board Policy (JDEF) Request by Expelled Students for Re-admission.
23 X. (b) Gifted Students
Informing the Public
Selma City Schools has placed the following notice of Gifted Referral Procedures in both the Student Code of Conduct and the Student Handbook.
Gifted students are those who perform at or who have demonstrated the potential to perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared to others their age, experience, or environment. These students require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Students possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor.
Teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self, or any other individuals with knowledge of the student's abilities may refer a student. Additionally, all second grade students will be observed as potential gifted referrals using a gifted behavior checklist as part of Second Grade Child Find.
For each student referred, information is gathered in the areas of Aptitude, Characteristics, and Performance. The information is entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points earned determines if the student qualifies for gifted services. To make a referral, contact the Gifted Referral Screening Team or the Principal at your child's school.
CHILD FIND
The Selma City Schools would like to inform residents within its school district of the availability of identification, evaluation and Special Education Services through our system.
We provide Special Education Services for eligible individuals between the ages of birth to twenty-one years old. All referrals and eligibility determinations are subject to the same requirements. Referral can be made by phone, conference or referral form.
What is Child Find?
Child Find is a statewide effort by the State Department of Education and the Rehabilitation Services to locate, identify, and evaluate children with disabilities from birth to age 21.
24
How Does Child Find Work?
Early Intervention and Special Education Services work closely with community service agencies, parents, and local school systems to locate children with disabilities. A toll free number is provided for parents or other persons interested in information about referring a child from birth to age 21.
Why is Child Find Important?
Child Find helps the child, the family, and the provider to plan appropriate services and link families to services for students meeting eligibility requirements in the following disability areas:
1. Autism
2. Deaf-Blindness
3. Developmental Delay
4. Emotional Disability
5. Hearing Impairment
6. Intellectual Disability
7. Multiple Disabilities
8. Orthopedic Impairment
9. Other Health Impairment
10. Specific Learning Disability
11. Speech or Language impairment
12. Traumatic Brain Injury
13. Visual Impairment
For more information, please contact:
Mrs. Angernette Carter
Director of Special Education
25
XI. Parental Notification of Civil Liabilities and Criminal Penalties
The following laws relate to civil liabilities and criminal penalties for violence and other misbehavior by students on school property or against school employees:
Attendance and Conduct (Section 16-28-12)
Person in loco parentis is responsible for child's school attendance and behavior; noncompliance; local boards to promulgate written behavior policy, contents, annual distribution, receipt to be documented; school officials required to report noncompliance; failure to report suspected violation; district attorneys vigorously to enforce provisions.
(a) Each parent, guardian, or other person having control or custody of any child required to attend school or receive regular instruction by a private tutor who fails to have the child enrolled in school or who fails to send the child to school, or have him or her instructed by a private tutor during the time the child is required to attend a public school, private school, church school, denominational school, or parochial school, or be instructed by a private tutor, or fails to require the child to regularly attend the school or tutor, or fails to compel the child to properly conduct himself or herself as a pupil in any public school in accordance with the written policy on school behavior adopted by the local board of education pursuant to this section and documented by the appropriate school official which conduct may result in the suspension of the pupil, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars ($100) and may also be sentenced to hard labor for the county for not more than 90 days. The absence of a child without the consent of the principal teacher of the public school he or she attends or should attend, or of the tutor who instructs or should instruct the child, shall be prima facie evidence of the violation of this section.
(b) Each local public board of education shall adopt a written policy for its standards on school behavior. Each local public school superintendent shall provide at the commencement of each academic year a copy of the written policy on school behavior to each parent, guardian, or other person having care or control of a child who is enrolled. Included in the written policy shall be a copy of this section. The signature of the student and the parent, guardian, or other person having control or custody of the child shall document receipt of the policy.
(c) Any parent, guardian, or other person having control or custody of any child enrolled in public school who fails to require the child to regularly attend the school or tutor, or fails to compel the child to properly conduct himself or herself as a pupil in accordance with the written policy on school behavior adopted by the local board of education and documented by the appropriate school official which conduct may result in the suspension of the pupil, shall be reported by the principal to the superintendent of education of the school system in which the suspected violation occurred. The superintendent of education or his or her designee shall report suspected violations to the district attorney within 10 days. Any principal or superintendent of education or his or her designee intentionally failing to report a suspected violation shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor. The district attorney shall vigorously enforce this section to ensure proper conduct and required attendance by any child enrolled in public school.
26 XII. School Enrollment Requirements
Attendance Required Children between the ages of seven and 17 years are required to attend a public school, private school, church school, or be instructed by a competent private tutor for the entire length of the school term in every scholastic year (Policy Manual 6.1.1).
Age Requirements Minimum age requirements for school entry are established by state law. In order to be admitted to a public kindergarten in Alabama, a child must be five years of age on or before September 1. First grade students must be six years of age on or before September 1. Children participating in the Title I preschool program must be four years of age on or before September 1. (Policy Manual 6.1.1)
Admission Admission to public school shall be on an individual basis on the application of the parents, legal custodian, or guardian of the child to the local board of education at the beginning of each school year, under such rules and regulations as the board may prescribe (Policy Manual 6.1.2).
Documentation for Admission to Selma City Schools
The following documents are requested for new students who are enrolling in Selma City Schools * Valid identification (I.D.) for parent/guardian * Official birth certificate for student * Valid social security card for student * Current immunization and completed health form for student * Two proofs of residence for parent/guardian
Each child enrolled in day care, Head Start, and public or private school in Alabama must have a valid Alabama Certificate of Immunization (not a copy) on file at the facility that they attend.
* The certificate may be obtained from the physician or clinic that administers the vaccine or may be completed by a county health department in the state if the parent presents a vaccine record from the provider.
* For students who are moving to Alabama, out-of-state vaccine records must be transferred to the Alabama Certificate of Immunization prior to day care, Head Start, or school entry. Immunizations will be maintained and monitored annually.
27 * Effective Fall of 2010, all students entering sixth grade will need a booster dose of tetanus and diphtheria toxoids and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap). The vaccine must be given at age 11 or 12. Please see insert for Immunization Schedule. *The State of Alabama does not recognize philosophical, moral, or ethical exemption from vaccination. A medical exemption may be issued by a physician or an Alabama Certificate of Religious Exemption may be obtained from the local county health department.
Students transferring from another school system must also provide the following documents: * recent report card and withdrawal from the last school attended * discipline and attendance report
Students are temporarily placed (not officially enrolled) contingent upon receipt of all documents.
Accepted parent/guardian photo and non-photo I.D. includes current and valid:
* Government-issued photo identifications * Employee identification with photo of employee produced by the employer * Photo identification card issued by an Alabama college or university * Photo identification issued from Alabama technical or professional school * Valid U.S. passport * Valid pilot's license issued by the FAA or other authorized agency of the federal government * Valid U.S. military identification * Birth certificate (certified copy) * Valid Social Security card * Naturalization document (certified copy) * Court record of adoption (certified copy) * Court record of name change (certified copy) * Valid Medicaid card * Valid Medicare card * Valid electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card * Government document that shows the name and address
Legal Guardianship
If a child resides with a guardian other than the parent, he or she must provide legal proof of custody before registration can occur.
Residence and Zoning
The Selma City Board of Education defines resident students as students whose parents or legal guardians live within the jurisdiction of the school system. All resident students of the school system shall be entitled to be admitted, subject to policy limitations and judicial constraints, to
28 the school serving their attendance zone. Nondiscriminatory Admittance Policy
Children who are zoned to attend the Selma City School System and who are homeless, migrant, non-English speaking, immigrant, or disabled will have access to a free appropriate public education. Students will not be prohibited from school attendance due to barriers such as:
Residency requirements Lack of social security card or number Lack of birth certificate Lack of immunizations Legal custody requirements Transportation Language barriers Disabilities
29 XIII. Attendance Procedures
Operation Hours and Terms
All Selma City Schools terms consist of 180 full instructional school days. All students are required to attend school for a full instructional day, which equates to 51 percent of the school day. Each school day begins at 8:00 A.M. and students are dismissed from school at 3:00 P.M. Times may vary due to inclement weather. Selma High School will dismiss at 3:15 P.M.
Parents/guardians are expected to take responsibility for seeing that their child (ren) arrive(s) before the opening of school and are picked up after the closing of school within time frames noted above. If, for any reason, parents/guardians are not able to comply with the times noted, a conference should be scheduled with the principal to discuss the matter.
Absences
Every parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of any child required to attend public school, private school, or church school, shall as soon as practical explain the cause of any absence of the child under his control or charge which was without permission of the teacher.
Failure to furnish such explanation shall be admissible as evidence of such child being a truant with the consent and support of the person in control or charge of the child, unless such person can show to the reasonable satisfaction of the court that he had no knowledge of such absence and that he had been diligent in his efforts to secure the attendance of such child.
Excused Absences
Parent(s)/guardian(s) must provide a written explanation of the reason(s) for each absence within three school days after each absence (or consecutive absences). If the written explanation is not provided within the three day period, the absences will be coded unexcused. A student must be in attendance 51 percent each day (after 11:30 a.m.) to be counted present.
Absences will be excused for the following reason:
Personal illness with parent/guardian excuse Personal illness with a doctor’s statement Death in the immediate family Weather preventing attendance (would endanger student’s health) Legal requirements, such as subpoena or other required court appearance Prior permission by the principal at the request of parent or guardian Legal quarantine
A student may have a total of 10 excused absences written by the parent/guardian. After an accumulation of 10 excused absences the student will receive unexcused absences unless absences are documented by the appropriate agency. High school students and parents should refer to the special note on page 31 and to their school handbook.
30
Unexcused Absences
Any absence(s) not classified as excused absence(s) will be coded unexcused. Days absent due to suspension are classified as excused. All suspended students will be allowed to make up homework, tests, or classroom activities missed due to suspension. An absence is unexcused when the parent/guardian does not send a written note explaining the absence within three (3) days following the absence or when the nature of the absence is for reasons other than those defined above. Students are referred to the Selma City Schools Early Warning Program when they have accumulated five or more unexcused absences.
Absences Due to School Related Activities
Students who participate in school sponsored, school related, or authorized activities and are thereby absent from school or class will not be counted absent from school. Students are expected to make up work missed while attending the activities, and should be given the same opportunities as those afforded students with excused absences. Students who attend but do not participate in school sponsored or school authorized activities will be counted ‘absent’ and the absence will be considered unexcused unless otherwise excused by the principal.
Absences Due to Religious Purposes
Absences for religious purposes are excused only if the parent/guardian submits a written request. Such requests must clearly specify the denomination and the particular religious observance for which the excused absence is requested. Requests for excused religious absences exceeding three days per student, per year, must be approved in writing by the principal.
Student Tardies
A tardy, for attendance register marking purposes, is defined as a student's arrival or early dismissal after or before the official time set for the beginning or ending of the respective school's regular activities. All tardies shall be recorded.
Tardies will be considered excused for the following reasons: medical, legal, inclement weather or emergency conditions as determined by the principal or designee. All other tardies will be considered unexcused.
A student who receives more than four (4) unexcused tardies per semester will be referred to the Attendance Officer for a conference. The parent/guardian in attendance at this conference will be given a warning by the Attendance Officer in regards to Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
If a student receives five (5) unexcused tardies per semester he/she is to meet with the Truant Officer. The parent/guardian in attendance at this conference will be given a warning by the Truant Officer in regards to Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
31 If a student receives six (6) or more) unexcused tardies per semester, a warrant of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor will be signed on the parent or guardian with the Juvenile Court system. A meeting is required with the Truant Officer before the filing of the above warrant.
A parent can request a conference with the principal.
Student Check-In/Out Procedures
Parents/guardians or other authorized personnel may check students in/out of school by going directly to the school office and following the school's check-in/out procedures. Persons are not to go directly to classrooms for this purpose. All check- ins/outs shall be recorded. A Check-in shall be defined as arriving at school after the school’s regular daily activities have begun. A check-out shall be defined as leaving school prior to the end of school’s regular daily activities. Check-outs shall be considered unexcused/excused absences if the student is not present for 51 percent of the school day. Likewise, check-in/outs convert to unexcused/excused tardies.
Truancy
Truancy is habitual and unlawful absence from school. In accordance with The Code of Alabama, the parent or guardian is responsible for requiring any student under his or her control or charge and under seventeen (17) years of age to attend school. (Policy Manual 6.1.5 and State Code Section 16-28-12, 1975)
A parent, guardian, or other person having charge of any child officially enrolled in Alabama public schools (K-12) shall explain in writing the cause of any and every absence of the child no later than three (3) school days following return to school. A failure to furnish such explanation shall be evidence of the child being truant each day he is absent. The child shall also be deemed truant for any absence determined by the principal to be unexcused based upon the State Department of Education’s current School Attendance Manual. Seven unexcused absences within a school year constitute a student being truant for the purpose of filing a petition with the Court.
High School Student and Parents
Special Note: Excessive absences and tardies to school and per class will affect student academic credit.
Attendance Requirements for High School Credit The high school may deny course or subject credit to a student if the number of unexcused class absences exceeds the following: Four (4) unexcused class absences of a student on a traditional block semester (18 weeks) schedule, Two (2) class absences of a student on a traditional block nine (9) weeks schedule.
High school students and parents should see principal for additional information.
32 XIV. Selma City Schools Early Warning Truancy Program
The Early Warning Truancy Program is a joint effort between the Selma City Board of Education and the District Attorney’s Office. It is designed to reduce truancy, the number of student dropouts, and to provide an intervention program for student behavior at school. The format of the program consists of group sessions held throughout the year in the courtroom of the Dallas County Courthouse. The purpose of the Early Warning sessions is to share information concerning compulsory school attendance law legal requirements and the school board policies pertaining to truancy, attendance, and behavior, thus constituting an Early Warning.
Students and parents required to attend Early Warning sessions are students who have been referred for one of the following reasons or combination of reasons:
Parents will be notified in writing if their child has received three (3) unexcused absences.
Upon a student receiving the fourth (4) unexcused absence, the parent/guardian will be required to attend a conference with the principal or a principal’s designee.
Upon a student receiving the fifth (5) unexcused absence, the student is reported to the truant officer, who will require another parent/guardian conference.
Upon receiving the sixth (6) unexcused absence, the truant officer will require the student and parent to attend Teen Court.
Once a student receives the seventh (7) unexcused absence, the truant officer must file a petition in Juvenile Court.
XV. Attendance/Driver’s License/Learner’s Permit
A. Denial of Driver’s License or Learner’s License 1. The Department of Public Safety shall deny a driver’s license or a learner’s license for the operation of a motor vehicle to any person under the age of 19 who does not, at the time of application, present a diploma or other certificate of graduation issued to the person from a secondary high school of this state or any other state, or documentation that the person: a. Is enrolled and making satisfactory progress in a course leading to a General Educational Development (GED) certificate from a state-approved institution or organization, or has obtained the certificate; b. Is enrolled in a secondary school of this state or any other state; c. Is participating in a job-training program approved by the State Superintendent of Education; d. Is gainfully and substantially employed; e. Is a parent with the care and custody of a minor or unborn child; f. Has a physician certify that the parents of the person depend on him/her as their sole source of transportation; or
33 g. Is exempted from this requirement due to circumstances beyond his or her control. Authority: Code of Alabama (1975) §16-28-40
B. Selma City Schools Responsibilities 1. The school system shall provide adequate information to each student concerning the rights, penalties, and guidelines provided in this legislation. 2. The superintendent or his designee shall, upon request of the student, provide and complete Part I of the Student Enrollment/Exclusion Status form to indicate enrollment status for any student 15 to 19 years of age. Enrollment status means the student is: a. enrolled in a public school; b. enrolled in a General Educational Development (GED) program; c. enrolled in a job-training program approved by the State Superintendent of Education; or d. exempted for circumstances beyond the control of the applicant as defined by the State Department of Education guidelines. 3. The superintendent or his designee shall use the Student Enrollment/Exclusion Status form to notify the Department of Public Safety of: a. Students who have requested enrollment status and are not enrolled. b. Students who are 17 to 19 years of age with more than 10 consecutive or 15 cumulative days of unexcused absences during a single semester. c. The superintendent or his designee shall advise a student of any report sent to the Department of Public Safety related to the student. d. The local school board shall write and approve a policy related to this act that is consistent with the State Department of Education guidelines. e. The school system shall implement an appeals policy which: (1) Provides for the student to appeal within 15 days of the issuance of enrollment status. (2) The appeal shall: a) Be written. b) Include a statement of reasons for the appeal. c) Be sent to the appropriate school principal. (3) Shall follow the adopted procedures for long-term suspension or expulsion. Code of Alabama (1975) §16-28-40 Alabama Administrative Code 290-3-1-.02(7) (b) (1)
4. Circumstances beyond the control of the student include the following: a. Students who are mentally or physically unable to attend school. b. Students who are regularly and legally employed under the provision of the Child Labor Law. c. Students who, because of the distance they reside from school and the lack of public transportation, are compelled to walk more than two miles to attend a public school. Authority: Code of Alabama (1975) §16-28-6
34 `d. Does not include suspension or expulsion from school or imprisonment as an exemption. e. The school system superintendent or designee is the sole judge of whether or not the evidence presented meets the legal requirements of “circumstances that are beyond the control” of the student. Authority: Code of Alabama (1975) §16-28-40
C. Possession of Pistol/Learner’s Permit/Driver’s License 1. Any person over the age of 14 who is convicted of the crime of possession of a pistol on the premises of a public school, or a public school bus, or both, shall be denied issuance of a driver’s permit or license for the operation of a motor vehicle for 180 days from the date a person is eligible and applies for a permit or license for the operation of a motor vehicle. The court shall notify the Department of Public Safety. Authority: Code of Alabama (1975) §16-28-40
2. Any student determined to have brought to school or have in his/her possession a firearm in a school, on school grounds, on school buses, or at other school-sponsored functions, shall be expelled for a period of one year. Notwithstanding the foregoing, city and county boards of education and local superintendent of education of each board may modify the expulsion requirement for a student on a case-by-case basis. Students who are expelled for violation of this section shall not be allowed to attend regular school classes in any public school in the state during the expulsion period. Authority: Code of Alabama (1975) §16-1-24.3
35 XVI. Safe Schools Environment Conducive to Learning
Report Cards All schools will use the nine-week grading period. Letter grades are derived from the following numerical equivalents:
A=90-100 B=80-89 C=70-79 D=60-69 F = 59 and below
Note: Selma High School students are eligible to apply for credit recovery with an average of 40 and above.
Grading Criteria
Grading Criteria for Grade Pre-K G = Good Progress W = Working To Improve
Grading Criteria for Grade Kindergarten M = Mastery S = Satisfactory N = Needs Improvement
Grading Criteria for Grades 1-12 Tests…………………………………………………………….45% Class work………………………………………………………30% Quizzes…………………………………………………………..5% Projects/Portfolio/Notebook…………………………………….15% Homework……………………………………………………….5% TOTAL…………………………………………………………..100%
Elementary & Secondary Grading Periods:
Grading Period Dates Report Card Date
1st 9 Weeks August 11 – October 16 October 20, 2014 2nd 9 Weeks October17-December19 January 12, 2015 3rd 9 Weeks January-6-March 11 March 18, 2015 4th 9 Weeks March-12-May 21 May 21, 2015
36 When students transfer from other school systems, grades are accepted at face value. Parents or guardians are encouraged to communicate with teachers concerning student performance.
Textbooks
Textbooks are furnished free of charge to all students and are the property of the Selma City School Board. A textbook receipt shall be signed by both the pupil and the parent/guardian upon textbook issuance by school officials.
RESPONSIBILITY
Parents/guardians of any student to whom free textbooks or other materials are issued shall be held liable for any loss, abuse or damage in excess of that which would result from normal use of such textbooks and materials. Students who lose or damage any textbook must pay lost or damage fees within 30 days. By Alabama law, no other textbook can be issued until lost or damaged fees are paid.
SCHEDULE OF PAYMENT
The amount of payment for lost or damaged textbooks will be determined by the following schedule:
1st year ...... Original cost 2nd year.………………………………………...... 75% of original cost 3rd year and over……………………………………50% of original cost
Where unusual or excessive damage to a textbook is evident, charges may be assessed up to but not to exceed the original cost.
Child Nutrition Program
All schools participate in the Child Nutrition Program. Each school offers a well-balanced breakfast and lunch. Limited `a la carte items are available at the middle schools and the high school.
Free or reduced price meals are available to students whose family income meets the criteria established by the federal government. All new students to the system will be required to pay full price (non-refundable) for all meals, pending approval. Parent/Guardian should complete only
37 one application per family. All children who live in the household should be listed on the application. This will ensure that all children who attend Selma City Schools will have access to free or reduced meals if criteria are met.
Breakfast Prices Lunch Prices Visitors Regular $0.75 Regular $1.50 Children & Adult Breakfast….$2.75 Reduced $0.30 Reduced $0.40 Children & Adult Lunch..……$3.75
Emergency School Closings
In the event of a school closing for inclement weather or any other reason, the superintendent's office will notify the media to broadcast or televise details of the situation. Please do not call the superintendent's office, individual schools, or radio or television stations. Necessary details will be broadcast or televised as information is available. A school cast call will be made by the central office to all current emergency phone numbers provided by the parent/guardian. Safety procedures will be in place for parents checking out students during inclement weather and emergency school closings. office, individual schools, or radio or television stations. Necessary details will be broadcast or televised as information is available. Safety procedures will be in place for parents checking out students during inclement weather and emergency school closings.
Fire Drills
Fire drills are held in each school at least once a month during the school year. Fire exit plans shall be posted in each school in all rooms occupied at any time by students.
Severe Weather Drills
Severe weather drills are conducted on a semester basis. All drills shall be conducted in accordance with local Civil Defense guidelines.
Tornado Watch
In the event a tornado watch is issued, the principal or his/her designees shall take all actions as specified in the approved Civil Defense Plan. When a tornado watch is in effect at the conclusion of the normal school day, students will be released via regular dismissal and transportation plans.
Tornado Warning
In the event a tornado warning is issued, the principal or his designees shall take all actions as specified in the approved Civil Defense Plan. If under a tornado warning at the end of the school day, students will not be released unless a parent/guardian comes to the school and personally assumes custody of his/her children.
38 Lockdown Procedure
Lockdown drills are conducted routinely at each school. In the event of a lockdown at any school, parents/guardians will not be allowed in the schools until the event has been deemed safe by emergency personnel and/or the superintendent of schools.
XVII. Laws Relate to Civil Liabilities and Criminal Penalties for Violence or Other Misbehavior by Students on School Property or Against School Employees
Attendance and Conduct (Act 94-782) Each parent/guardian or other person having control or custody of a child required to attend school who fails to require the child to enroll, to regularly attend school, or to compel the child to properly conduct himself/herself as a pupil in accordance with the written policy on school behavior adopted by the local board of education shall be guilty of a misdemeanor (may be fined up to $100 and may be sentenced to hard labor for up to 90 days).
Teacher Assault (Act 94-794) A person commits the crime of assault in the second degree if the person assaults with intent to cause serious physical injury to an employee of a public educational institution during or as a result of the performance of his or her duty.
Drug Dealing (Act 94-783) A person who unlawfully sells, furnishes, or gives a controlled substance to a minor may be liable for injury or damage or both suffered by a third person caused by or resulting from the use of the controlled substance by the minor, if the sale, furnishing, or giving of the controlled substance is the proximate cause of the injury or damage.
Drugs, Alcohol, Weapons, Physical Harm, or Threatened Physical Harm (Act 94-784) The school principal shall notify appropriate law enforcement officials when a person violates local board of education policies concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person or threatened physical harm to a person. If any criminal charge is warranted, the principal is authorized to sign the appropriate warrant. If that person is a student, the local school system shall immediately suspend that person from attending regular classes and schedule a hearing within 5 school days.
If a person is found to have violated a local board of education policy concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person or threatened physical harm to a person, the person may not be readmitted to the public schools until criminal charges, if any, have been disposed of by appropriate authorities and the person has satisfied all other requirements imposed by the local board of education as a condition for readmission.
Pistol Possession/Driver’s License (Act 94-820)
39 Any person over the age of 14 who is convicted of the crime of possession of a pistol on the premises of a public school, or a public school bus, shall be denied issuance of a driver’s permit or license to operate a motor vehicle for 180 days from the date the person is eligible and applies for a permit or license. If the person over age 14 possesses a driver’s license on the date of conviction; the driver’s license will be suspended for 180 days.
Drop-Out/Driver’s License (Act 94-820 which amended Act 93-368) The Department of Public Safety shall deny a driver’s license or learner’s permit to any person under 19 who is not enrolled or has not received a diploma or certificate of graduation. Exceptions are students who: are enrolled in a GED program, are enrolled in a secondary school, are participating in an approved job training program, are gainfully employed, are a parent of a minor or unborn child, or are the sole source of transportation for the parent
Weapons In Schools (Act 94-817) No person shall knowingly with intent to do bodily harm carry or possess a deadly weapon on the premises of a public school. Possession of a deadly weapon with intent to do bodily harm on the premises of a public school or school bus is a Class C felony. Deadly weapons include but are not limited to hand grenades, explosive or incendiary devices, pistols, rifles, or shotguns or switchblade knives, gravity knives, stilettos, swords, or daggers; or any clubs, batons, billy black-jacks, bludgeon, or metal knuckles.)
Vandalism (Act 94-819) The parents, guardian, or other person having control of any minor under the age of 18 with whom the minor is living and who have custody of the minor shall be liable for the actual damages sustained to school property, plus the court costs, caused by intentional, willful or malicious act of the minor.
No Pass No Play Please refer to your middle school or high school student handbook for specific eligibility requirements for extra-curricular activities.
Bomb/Terrorist Threats (Act 2000, No. 807, § 1) (a) A person commits the crime of making a terrorist threat when he or she threatens by any means to commit any crime of violence or to damage any property by doing any of the following: (1) intentionally or recklessly a. terrorizing another person b. causing the disruption of school activities c. causing the evacuation of a building, place of assembly, or facility of public transportation, or other serous public inconvenience (2) with the intent to retaliate against any person who a. attends a judicial or administrative proceeding as a witness or party or produces records, documents, or other objects in a judicial proceeding b. provides to a law enforcement officer, adult or juvenile probation officer, prosecuting attorney, or judge any information relating to the commission of
40 possible commission of an offense under the laws of this state, of the United States, or a violation of conditions of bail, pretrial release, probation, or parole.
(b) The crime of making a terrorist threat is a Class C felony.
XVIII. Selma City Schools Policies for Safe School Environments
Student Alcohol and Drug Use Substance Abuse
The unauthorized possession, transfer, use, or sale of drugs, drug paraphernalia, or alcoholic beverages is prohibited within School Board jurisdiction. It shall be the policy of the Selma City School Board that school principals or authorized officials shall automatically suspend for ten (10) days, and may recommend expulsion of, any student found in possession of, or in the act of using, the following substances (listed in paragraph 2). The distribution and sale of the following substances are grounds for expulsion:
Alcohol, marijuana, controlled substances (stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, opiates, narcotics, or inhalants) or any other substance which may alter behavior. (Refer to Health Procedures and Guidelines.)
The above statements apply when acts take place at school, on school grounds or within a one- mile radius, on school buses and/or any school-sponsored event, during or after regular school hours.
Principals shall immediately notify the parent or guardian of the student's action by telephone. If parent or guardian cannot be reached by phone, principals shall then notify them of the action by sending a letter within 24 hours. Care shall be given to afford due process to all students.
School principals shall immediately notify the police if a student is found in the possession of, or in the act of using, distributing, or selling drugs. Principals may conduct a search of a student's locker and/or personal belonging if they have reasonable grounds for suspecting that the student is violating either the law or school policy. All school authorities and personnel shall cooperate fully with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in the detection, prevention, and prosecution of any and all possible violations of the law.
Students suspended for the first time for drug-related violations must fulfill the following requirements before returning to school:
The student must, with his parents, meet with the school principal or the superintendent. All violations of this policy shall be reported to the Selma City Police.
"No Fight" Policy
41 The Selma City Board of Education is obligated to provide a safe and orderly environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. Therefore, it is the policy of this school system that fighting in school buildings, on school grounds, at any school-sponsored event or on a school- owned/maintained vehicle will not be tolerated. A fight is defined as any conduct or physical action which causes physical injury or creates a substantial risk of physical injury to another person.
The superintendent, principals, and their designee(s) shall work cooperatively to enforce this "no fight" policy within the system.
Fighting in a school building, on school grounds, at any school-sponsored event, or on a school owned/maintained vehicle shall be classified as a major violation of the Code of Student Conduct. All repeat offenders will receive more severe penalties.
Gang-Related Activities
The Selma City School Board of Education has zero tolerance for gang-related activities. Gang- related graffiti, colors, symbols, signs, and language will not be tolerated in school buildings, on school grounds, at any school-sponsored event, or on a school owned/maintained vehicle. Participation in gang-related activities will result in automatic suspension; the principal can recommend expulsion. Gun-Free Schools
The Selma City School Board recognizes the importance of providing a safe environment that promotes learning. Therefore, measures will be taken to insure that students and personnel have no fear for their safety.
The Selma City School Board shall abide by state and federal legislation which prohibits possession of a firearm/weapon in a school. The Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994 stipulates that a student who is determined to have brought a firearm/weapon to school be expelled for a period of not less than one year, and be referred to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. The chief administering officer of the agency may modify such expulsion requirement for a student on a case-by-case basis.
In addition, the Selma City Schools system shall report to the State such information as is required by the Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994 regarding expulsion for violation of the said Act.
Metal Detectors
The Selma City Board of Education may employ the use of metal detectors when, at its discretion, it deems the same necessary to provide and maintain a safe and secure environment for the students, staff and authorized visitors.
42 Stationary, mobile and/or hand held metal detectors may be used. Training shall be provided for authorized persons on the use, maintenance and storage of said equipment, and on laws and procedures for conducting searches.
All metal detector searches shall be conducted by School Board employees or by law enforcement personnel with permission of School Board employees. Any information pertaining to the use of metal detectors shall be used only for school disciplinary and/or law enforcement purposes.
Search and Seizure
The Selma City School Board recognizes the importance of providing a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and authorized visitors. Therefore, the school system will cooperate with law enforcement agencies to make periodic, unannounced visits to any school for the purpose of detecting the presence of illegal drugs and weapons; i.e., unannounced to anyone except the local superintendent and building principal.
Sexual Harassment
Students receive orientation on sexual harassment at least twice per year.
Prohibited Conduct Students shall not engage in conduct constituting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment, whether between students or between a student and an employee will not be tolerated. All allegations of sexual harassment will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken against students who engage in sexual harassment. Sanctions against students for violation of this policy may include verbal or written warning, suspension, or expulsion.
Definition Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when the advances, requests, or conduct have the effect of interfering with performance of duties or creating an intimidating, hostile, or otherwise offensive environment in or about the school or school facility.
Complaint Procedure A student who believes he or she has been or is being subjected to any form of sexual harassment shall immediately report the matter to the teacher, school counselor, principal or the superintendent. Any student who becomes aware of or suspects that a student is being sexually harassed shall immediately report the information to the teacher, school counselor, principal or superintendent. A student’s request to make his or her report of sexual harassment to someone of the same sex as the student shall be granted. No student alleging
43 sexual harassment shall be required to present the matter to the person who is the subject of the complaint.
The principal shall start an immediate investigation into the matter. The custodial parent (s) of the student will be informed of the complaint. The completed investigation shall be reviewed by the superintendent or his designee and legal counsel for prompt and appropriate action, if warranted.
Protection of Complainant No student shall be subjected to adverse action in retaliation for any good faith report of sexual harassment under this policy. To the fullest extent practical, all reports of sexual harassment will be kept confidential.
Requests by Expelled Students for Re-admission
The Board shall have no obligation to readmit or consider for readmission any student who has been expelled from school.
A student who has been expelled may submit to the Board a written request to be considered for readmission. Such written request shall be accompanied or supported by evidence that the student has corrected inappropriate behaviors, established acceptable patterns of conduct and is capable and willing to abide by school rules. The Board will not consider and shall deny all requests for re-admissions made within twelve (12) months of the decision to expel. The Board will not consider and shall deny all requests for readmission by students who were expelled for, withdrew pending an expulsion hearing for, have been charged with or convicted of any of the following, to-wit: possession or use of a weapon at school, on school property or at any school function or activity; the sale, possession, or use of any illegal drug or substance at school on school property or at any school function or activity; any conduct that could constitute or be classified as a felony under Alabama criminal laws; and any conduct which the Board deems in its sole discretion, to have caused, was intended to cause or created a substantial risk to the safety and welfare of another student, teacher or person.
Upon receipt of a written request for readmission by an expelled student, the Board may summarily deny the request without a hearing or may grant a hearing before the Board on said request. If the Board fails to act and/or schedule a hearing on a request within thirty (30) days after receipt of said request, the request for readmission shall be deemed to have been denied by the Board.
If the Board grants a hearing on a request for readmission, the student and the student's parent(s) or guardian(s) shall be notified of the date, time and place of the hearing. The student and the student's parent(s) may, but shall not be required to, be represented by legal counsel at the
44 hearing. The hearing before the Board shall be closed to the public. Failure of the student and the student's parent or guardian to appear at the hearing shall result in the request being denied.
The procedure outlined herein shall be followed at the hearing before the Board on a request for readmission. The student, the student's parent(s) or representative will be afforded fifteen (15) minutes to present arguments or evidence which they deem demonstrate or support the following to-wit:
that the student's conduct and behavior upon readmission would be such that same would not be an endangerment or threat of endangerment to any student, teacher or other person;
that the student's conduct and behavior upon readmission would be such that same would not hinder, disrupt or otherwise interfere with the right, duties and opportunities of school employees and/or the students, including but not limited to the teaching duties of school employees and the opportunity of other students to learn;
that the student understands and is capable and willing to abide by school rules.
The student and/or the student's parents shall bear the burden of proof on all issues at said hearing. A retrial or rehearing on the facts of the offense resulting in the student's expulsion shall not be permitted. At the conclusion of the student's presentation, the Superintendent shall have fifteen (15) minutes to present any argument, evidence or recommendation that he/she desires to make.
At the conclusion of the presentations, the Board shall deliberate in private and shall render a decision within ten (10) days. In addition to the presentation at the hearing, the Board may review any tapes of, transcripts of or evidence presented at the expulsion hearing, the student's prior academic record, and the student's prior disciplinary record in reaching its decision. Upon reaching a decision, the Board, through the Superintendent, shall notify the student, the student's parent and/or representative in writing of the Board's decision. The Board shall have the right to grant readmission solely on a probationary basis and to place such conditions, restrictions and requirements as they deem necessary for the best interests of the readmitted student, school employees and/or other students.
6.19 Electronic Communication Devices The use of personal, wireless communication devices by students is prohibited during school hours or while students are being transported on a school bus, except as provided for herein. Personal, wireless communication devices include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones, pocket pagers, email devices, “walkie talkies,” or any other electronic communication device. During school hours, students are required to keep personal wireless devices in lockers, the school office, or other secure locations approved by the principal or his designee. The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, or damage to any personal/wireless communication device. The principal or his designee may approve the use of such devices during medical emergencies, natural disasters, after
45 regular school hours, at events or under circumstances in which the use of the devices serves safety and convenience without disrupting academic or school operations. Principals or their designees will also have the authority to restrict or deny the use of personal/wireless communication devices by any student due to misuse, abuse, or failure to abide by school rules regarding the use of such devices. School officials may read, examine, or inspect the contents of any such device upon reasonable suspicion that the device contains evidence of a violation of Board policy, the Code of Student Conduct, or other school rules. [Reference: ALA. CODE §16-1-27 (1975)]
Alabama State Department of Education Policy
Use of Digital Devices During the Administration of a Secure Test
Student Policy
The possession of a digital device (including but not limited to cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, or other telecommunication devices capable of capturing or relaying information) is strictly prohibited during the administration of a secure test. If a student is observed in possession of a digital device during the administration of a secure test, the device will be confiscated.
If a student is observed using a digital device during the administration of a secure test, testing for the student will cease, the device will be confiscated and is subject to search, the student will be dismissed from testing, and the student’s test will be invalidated.
Local education agency (LEA) personnel will make all students, parents, and /or guardians aware of this prohibition through inclusion of this policy in the Student Code of Conduct Handbook and other regularly used modes of communication.
Smoking/Tobacco Policy
In an effort to ensure that tobacco products are not used on school property, and in accordance with State Board requirements, the Selma City School Board has instituted the following Smoking/Tobacco Policy. All persons are prohibited from using tobacco products on school property. Students who violate this policy shall be suspended as prescribed in the Code of Student Conduct.
XIX. Anti-Harassment/Bullying Policy
Prohibited Conduct No student shall engage in or be subjected to harassment/bullying, violence, threats of violence, or intimidation by any other student that is based on any of the specific characteristics that have been identified by the Selma City School Board in this policy. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary sanctions.
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Definitions The term “harassment’ as used in this policy means a continuous pattern of intentional behavior that takes place on school property, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored- function including, but not limited to, written, electronic, verbal, or physical acts that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any characteristic of a student, or by the association of a student with an individual who has a particular characteristic, if the characteristic falls into one of the categories of personal characteristics set forth below. To constitute harassment/bullying, a pattern of behavior may do any of the following:
Place a student in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property.
Have the effect of substantially interfering with the educational performance, opportunities, or benefits of a student.
Have the effect of substantially disrupting or interfering with the orderly operation of the school.
Have the effect of creating a hostile environment in the school, on school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function.
Have the effect of being sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, threatening, or abusive environment for a student.
The term “violence” as used in this policy means the infliction of physical force by a student with the intent to cause injury to another student or damage to the property of another student.
The term “threat of violence” as used in this policy means an expression of intention to inflict injury or damage that is made by a student and directed to another student.
The term “intimidation” as used in this policy means a threat or other action that is intended to cause fear or apprehension in a student, especially for the purpose of coercing or deterring the student from participating in or taking advantage of any school program, benefit, activity or opportunity for which the student is or would be eligible.
The term “student” as used in this policy means a student who is enrolled in the Selma City School System.
47 Behavior Expected of Students Students are expected to treat other students with courtesy, respect, and dignity and comply with the Code of Student Conduct. Students are expected and required (1) to comply with the requirements of law, policy, regulation, and rules prohibiting harassment, violence, or intimidation; (2) to refrain from inflicting or threatening to inflict violence, injury, or damage to the person or property of another student; and (3) to refrain from placing another student in fear of being subjected to violence, injury, or damage when such actions or threats are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any personal characteristic of the student that is identified in this policy.
Violence, threats of violence, harassment, and intimidation are prohibited and will be subject to disciplinary consequences and sanctions if the perpetrator of such action is found to have based the prohibited action on one or more of the following personal characteristics of the victim of such conduct:
the student’s race
the student’s sex
the student’s religion
the student’s national origin
the student’s disability or
the student’s sexual orientation.
Consequences for Violations A series of graduated consequences for any violation of this policy will be those outlined in the Code of Student Conduct or any rule or standard adopted under authority of this policy.
Reporting, Investigation, and Complaint Resolution Procedures Complaints alleging violations of this policy must be made on Board approved complaint forms available at the principal and/or counselor’s office. The complaint must be signed by the student alleging the violation or by the student’s parent or legal guardian and delivered to the principal or the principal’s designee either by mail or personal delivery. At the request of the complaining student or the student’s parent or legal guardian, incidental, or minor violations of the policy may be presented and resolved informally.
Upon receipt of the complaint, the principal or the principal’s designee will, in their sole discretion, determine if the complaint alleges a serious violation of this policy. If the principal or the principal’s designee determines that the complaint alleges a serious violation, the principal or the principal’s designee will undertake an investigation of the complaint. The investigation will entail the gathering of relevant facts and evidence and will be conducted in a reasonably prompt time period taking into account the
48 circumstances of the complaint. If the investigation establishes a violation, appropriate disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on the offending student(s). Other measures that are reasonably calculated to prevent a recurrence of the violation(s) may also be imposed by the principal or the school system.
Acts of reprisal or retaliation against any student who has reported a violation of this policy or sought relief provided by this policy are prohibited, and are themselves a violation of this policy. Any confirmed acts of reprisal or retaliation will be subject to disciplinary sanctions that may include any sanction, penalty, or consequence that is available to school officials under the Code of Student Conduct. A student who deliberately, recklessly, and falsely accuses another student of a violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary sanctions as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.
The complaint form developed to report violations of this policy will include a provision for reporting a threat of suicide by a student. If a threat of suicide is reported, the principal or the principal’s designee will inform the student’s parent or guardian of the report. Promulgation of Policy and Related Procedures, Rules, and Forms
This policy and any procedures, rules, and forms developed and approved to implement the policy will be published, disseminated, and made available to students, parents and legal guardians and employees by such means and methods as are customarily used for such purposes, including publication on the Selma City Schools’ web site, www.selmacityschools.org.
Construction of Policy
This policy is supplemental to other Board policies and procedures and does not repeal, replace, or supersede any other prohibition on harassment/bullying, violence, threats of violence or intimidation found elsewhere in Board policy or procedure, including the Code of Student Conduct. This policy shall not be construed to allow harassment, violence, threats of violence or intimidation for any reason not specifically listed in this policy or to prohibit the Board from disciplining students for acts of harassment, violence, threats of violence or intimidation not specifically listed herein. Students who engage in harassment/bullying, violence, threats of violence or intimidation not specifically covered by this policy may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.
XX. Equal Education Opportunity Statement and Grievance Procedure
The Selma City School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, disability, national origin, age or sex. Inquiries or complaints regarding compliance with Title IX, Section 504 or any other federal requirements may be directed to:
Office for Civil Rights United States Department of Education
49 Region IV 101 Marietta Tower Atlanta, Georgia 30323
OR Section 504 Title IX, Section VI P.L. 94-142, P.L. -457 Arthur L. Capers 874-1600 The following procedure has been established for use by students or their Parents/guardians who wish to file complaints regarding alleged discrimination based on the grounds of race, color, disability, sex, religion, creed, national origin, or age. A "grievance" is another name for a complaint.
The student or parent/guardian shall, within five days of when the grievance is first known, request a conference with the employee(s) against whom the grievance is brought. This conference shall be scheduled by the employee(s) within five (5) days of receipt of the request. If the grievance is resolved at this conference by mutual agreement, there shall be no further action.
Both parties shall state in writing that they are in agreement with the proposed resolution. If the grievance is not resolved at the first level conference, the student or parent/guardian shall file, within five (5) days, a written description of the grievance with the principal.
Upon receipt of the grievance, the principal and the employee(s) involved shall schedule a conference with the student or parent/guardian to be held within five (5) days of the receipt of the grievance. This conference shall be for the purpose of resolving the filed grievance.
Following the conference, the principal shall respond in writing within five (5) days to the student or parent/guardian as to his or her decision regarding the disposition of the grievance. If after this the problem has not been resolved, the student or parent/guardian shall file, within five (5) days, a written description of the grievance with the Title IX/Section 504/ADA Coordinator(s). Upon receipt of the grievance, the Title IX/Section 504/ADA Coordinator(s) shall schedule a conference with the student or parent/guardian to be held within five (5) days of the receipt of the grievance. The superintendent shall also attend this conference. Those involved will try to find a satisfactory solution on the basis of the evidence presented. The superintendent will inform the student or parent/guardian in writing of his/her decision within five (5) days of this meeting.
Should the grievance not be resolved, the student or parent/guardian may request to be heard by the Selma City School Board of Education by submitting the request in writing within fifteen (15) days of the superintendent's decision. The Board will consider the complaint at the earliest appropriate meeting and shall review the original grievance.
50 The Board of Education will either uphold the recommendation of the superintendent or require the system to take some other action in response to the grievance. The Board shall inform the student or parent/guardian and the superintendent in writing of its decision within fifteen (15) days after the meeting. The Board shall be the final reviewing authority within the system. If the student or parent/guardian believes the grievance remains unresolved, they may contact the:
Office for Civil Rights Region IV P.O. Box 2048 Atlanta, GA 30301
XXI. The Internet Acceptable Use Policy
The use of Internet and other instructional technology programs is part of the information and research services offered to students who attend the Selma City Schools. This service is designed to provide access to Internet servers, instructional web sites, electronic mail, and other technological software designed for instructional purposes.
Internet services provide access to a global network allowing students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, museums, and other educational resources. Through the use of electronic mail, students can communicate with other users around the world. However, with this access to computers and people around the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered of educational value in the context of the school setting. While the Selma City School System has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials, it is impossible to control all materials which might be found either intentionally or unintentionally.
Therefore, all students, grades 3-12, will be required to sign an Internet Ethical Use Agreement. This agreement must be co-signed by parents/guardians. In addition, the agreement must be signed by parents/guardians for students in grades Pre K-2.
The Selma City School System is pleased to make available to students access to interconnected computer systems within the system and to the Internet, the world-wide network that provides various means of accessing significant educational materials and opportunities.
In order for the School System to be able to continue to make its computer network and Internet access available, all students must take responsibility for appropriate and lawful use of this access. Students must understand that one student’s misuse of the network and Internet access may jeopardize the ability of all students to enjoy such access. While the school’s teachers and other staff will make reasonable efforts to supervise student use of network and Internet access, they must have student cooperation in exercising and promoting responsible use of this access.
Below is the Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy (“Policy”) of the Selma City School System and the Data Acquisition Site that provides Internet access to the Selma City School System. Upon reviewing, signing, and returning this Policy as the students have been directed,
51 each student will be given the opportunity to enjoy Internet access at school and is agreeing to follow the Policy. If a student is under 18 years of age, he or she must have his or her parents or guardians read and sign the Policy. The Selma City School System cannot provide access to any student who, if 18 or older, fails to sign and submit the Policy to the school as directed or, if under 18 does not return the Policy as directed with the signatures of the student and his/her parents or guardians.
Listed below are the provisions of your agreement regarding computer network and Internet use. If you have any questions about these provisions, you should contact your school principal. If any user violates this Policy, the student’s access will be denied, if not already provided, or withdrawn and he or she may be subject to additional disciplinary action.
Personal Responsibility
By signing this policy, you are agreeing not only to follow the rules in this policy, but are agreeing to report any misuse of the network to your school that is not included in the policy, but has the effect of harming another or his or her property.
Term of the Permitted Uses
A student who submits to the school, as directed a properly signed policy and follows the policy to which she or he has agreed will have computer network and Internet access during the course of the school year only. Students will be asked to sign a new policy each year during which they are students in the Selma City Schools before they are given an access account.
Acceptable Uses
Educational Purposes Only The Selma City School System is providing access to its computer network and the Internet for only educational purposes. If you have any doubt about whether a contemplated activity is educational, you may consult with your school principal to help you decide if a use is appropriate.
Unacceptable Uses of Network Among the uses that are considered unacceptable and which constitute a violation of this Policy are the following:
Uses that violate the law or encourage others to violate the law. Do not transmit offensive or harassing messages; offer for sale or use any substance, the possession, or use of which is prohibited by the Selma City School’s Code of Conduct; view, transmit or download pornographic materials or materials that encourage others to violate the law; intrude into the networks or computers of others; and download or transmit confidential, trade secret information, or copyrighted materials. Even if materials on the networks are not marked with the copyright symbol, you should assume that all materials are protected unless there is explicit permission on the materials to use them.
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Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. For example, don’t engage in defamation (harming another’s reputation by lies); employ another’s password or some other user identifier that misleads message recipients into believing that someone other than you is communicating or otherwise using his/her access to the network or the Internet; upload a worm, virus, “trojan horse,” “time bomb” or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; participate in “hacking” activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems.
Uses that jeopardize the security of student access and of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. For example, don’t disclose or share your password with others; don’t impersonate another user. Uses that are commercial transactions. Students and other users may not sell or buy anything over the Internet. You should not give others private information about you or others, including credit card numbers and social security numbers.
Netiquette
Be polite. Use appropriate language. (No swearing, vulgarities or suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or threatening language).
Avoid language and uses which may be offensive to other users. Don’t use access to make or distribute jokes, stories, or other materials which is based upon slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, or sexual orientation.
Don’t assume that a sender of an e-mail is giving his or her permission for you to forward, to redistribute the message to third parties or to give his/her e-mail address to third parties. This should only be done with permission or when you know that the individual would have no objection.
Sending attachments with e-mail (see the above Netiquette statement).
Internet Safety
General Warning: Individual Responsibility of Parents and Users All users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school-aged pupils. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use of the computer network and Internet and stay away from these sites. Parents of minors are the best guide to materials to shun. If a student finds that other users are visiting offensive or harmful sites, he or she should report such use to the school principal.
Personal Safety Be safe. In using the computer network and Internet, do not reveal personal information such as your home address or telephone number. Do not use your real last name or any
53 other information which might allow a person to locate you without first obtaining the permission of a supervising teacher. Do not arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone you “meet” on the computer network or Internet without your parents’ permission (if you are under 18). Regardless of your age, you should never agree to meet a person you have only communicated with on the Internet in a secluded place or in a private setting.
“Hacking” and Other Illegal Activities It is a violation of this Policy to use the School’s computer network or the Internet to gain unauthorized access to other computers or computer systems, or to attempt to gain such unauthorized access. Any use which violates state or federal law or relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, which violates any other applicable law or municipal ordinance, is strictly prohibited.
Confidentiality of Student Information Personally identifiable information concerning students may not be disclosed or used in any way on the Internet without the permission of a parent or guardian or, if the student is 18 or over, the permission of the student himself/herself. Users should never give out private or confidential information about themselves or others on the Internet, particularly credit card numbers and Social Security numbers. The school principal or administrator may authorize the release of directory information, as defined by Alabama law, for internal administrative purposes or approved educational projects and activities.
Active Restriction Measures The School, either by itself or in combination with the Data Acquisition Site providing Internet access, will utilize filtering software or other technologies to prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to minors. The School will also monitor the online activities of students, through direct observation and/or technological means, to ensure that students are not accessing such depictions or other material which is inappropriate for minors.
Internet filtering software or other technology-based protection systems may be disabled by a school administrator, as necessary, for purposes of bona fide research or other educational projects being conducted by students age 17 and older. The term “harmful to minors” is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 (47 USC Section 25 (h) (7), as meaning any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that taken as a whole with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex or excretion; depicts, describes, or represents, in patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; taken as a whole, lacks serious literacy, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.
Privacy
54 Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for your education. The Selma City School System reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connections with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of the Selma City School System and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials. Failure To Follow Policy
The user’s use of the computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. A user who violates this Policy, shall at a minimum, have his or her access to the computer network and Internet terminated, which the Selma City School System may refuse to reinstate for the remainder of the student’s enrollment in the School System. A user violates this Policy by his or her own action or by failing to report any violations by other users that come to the attention of the user. Further, a user violates this policy if he or she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and Internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. The School System may also take other disciplinary action in such circumstances. Violations of this system policy are major offenses - Class III as defined in the Code of Student Conduct.
Warranties/Indemnification
The Selma City School System make no warranties of any kind, either express or implied, in connection with its provision of access to and use of its computer networks and the Internet provided under this policy. It shall not be responsible for any claims, losses, damages or costs (including attorney’s fees) of any kind suffered, directly or indirectly, by any user or his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) arising out of the user’s use of its computer networks or the Internet under this policy. By signing this policy, users are taking full responsibility for his or her use, and the user who is 18 or older, or in the case of a user under 18, the parent(s) or guardian(s) are agreeing to indemnify and hold the School, the School System, the Data Acquisition Site that provides the computer and Internet access opportunity to the School System and all of their administrators, teachers, and staff harmless from any and all loss, costs, claims or damages resulting from the user’s access to its computer network and the Internet, including but not limited to any fees or charges incurred through purchases of goods or services by the user. The user or, if the user is a minor, the user’s parent(s) or guardian(s) agree to cooperate with the School in the event of the School’s initiating an investigation of a user’s use of his or her access to its computer network and the Internet, whether that use is on a school computer or on another computer outside the School System’s network.
Updates
Users, and if appropriate, the user’s parents/guardians, may be asked from time to time to provide new or additional registration and account information or to sign a new policy, for example, to reflect developments in the law or technology. Such information must be provided by the user (or his/her parents or guardians) or such new policy must be signed if the user wishes to continue to receive service. If after you have provided your account information, some or all of the information changes, you must notify your school principal.
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XXII. Universal Dress Code
Research indicates that schools with a standard dress code have fewer discipline problems and higher academic performance. Student self-esteem is also higher in such schools. A standard dress code allows students to focus on academic competition rather than on peer pressure, related to fads and/or costly attire. Therefore, the Selma School Board of Selma requires that students abide by a standard dress code.
The Selma City Board of Education has the responsibility to maintain an appropriate atmosphere conducive to learning. Therefore, any student-worn article of clothing or manner of hair style or make-up determined by the teachers and principals to be disruptive of the learning environment or hazardous to the health and safety of the child and/or teacher shall not be permitted.
The primary guide in determining what is not appropriate is the extent to which such dress and grooming attract undue attention in the classroom or school. Refer to school handbook for special circumstances.
Short/Slacks Shorts/Slacks/Skirts Only khaki or navy slacks/shorts/skirts/jumpers are permitted. Shorts and skirts must not be shorter than 2 inches above the knee in length. Note: No baggies, No sagging, No khaki colored jeans, No leggings, No Jeggings, & NO COVERALLS!!!
Shirts Only in white or school colors knit golf shirt with or without school’s logo. Knit golf shirts in school’s color with and without school’s logo White long or short sleeve dress shirt Students may wear t-shirts on designated days; however, they MUST have the school logo. Shirts MUST be tucked in at all times. NOTE: All undershirts or turtleneck etc. must be white ONLY.
Sweaters/ White sweaters or sweaters in school colors may be worn in the classroom. Sweatshirts/Ties Ties may be worn with white long or short sleeve dress shirts. Jackets Only windbreaker jackets in school colors with the school logo are accepted in the classroom. Large over- coats must be put away when entering the building.
Shoes/Boots Shoes must fully cover the feet (No open-heels or open-toes will be worn). Shoes with wheels and lights shall not be permitted.
Socks/Tights Solid colors of black, navy, white, khaki, or school colors MUST be worn at ALL times.
Belts Brown or black belts are to be worn at all times with items of clothing that have belt loops. The belt must have a small buckle.
Jewelry The ONLY jewelry that will be permitted is one short necklace worn INSIDE the shirt and/or only small stud earrings may be worn.
P.E. Uniform School P.E. uniforms are only allowed at The School of Discovery, R.B. Hudson Middle School, and Selma High School.
Book bags Book bags are required to be clear or see-through type .
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School Colors Byrd Elementary Navy Cedar Park Elementary Royal Blue Clark Elementary Purple & Black S. P. Kingston Elementary Sky Blue & Navy Edgewood Elementary Hunter Green & Yellow Knox Elementary Burgundy Meadowview Elementary Holiday Red Payne Elementary Navy and Carolina Blue School of Discovery Hunter Green R.B. Hudson Middle School Burgundy Selma High Blue, Gold, and White Phoenix Colors of enrolled school
Additional Dress Code Regulations for All Schools
NO designs cut in hair. NO teeth plates (gold or platinum) are permitted. NO sagging pants. NO oversized or hanging pants, shirts, or coats permitted. NO hoods are allowed to be worn in the buildings. NO sleeveless tops. NO under garment should be exposed. NO open/visible/midriffs. NO slits allowed in shorts. NO thongs, flip-flops, or house shoes permitted. NO pajamas or house/shower robes permitted. NO excessive jewelry allowed or jewelry indicating drugs, gang, or cult affiliation. NO body piercing, including eyebrows, nose, lips, tongue, etc… NO commercial design or logos on pants, Capri’s, shorts, skirts, skorts, jackets, blazers, sweaters, shirts, or shoes. ONLY the school logo is permitted. NO hats, caps, hoods, do-rags, or scarves of any kind are permitted inside the building.
Failure to Dress in Uniform Will Result in Disciplinary Action: The uniform apparel must be clean, properly fitted, and in good repair. All uniform apparel should be marked with your child’s name. All hats, excessive jewelry, or sunglasses worn inside will be confiscated and held in the office where a parent must see an administrator in order to have them returned. If the principal determines that the student's dress or grooming is unacceptable, a letter shall be sent home to the parent detailing the violation of the uniform dress code (Violation 1.07). Any subsequent violations may result in after school detention, in school suspension, or out of school
57 suspension (Defiance of School Board Employee’s Authority--Violation 2.01).
Selma City Schools Selma, Alabama
NOTICE OF UNIFORM DRESS CODE VIOLATION Office of the Principal Date:______
Dear Parents:
______is in violation of the UNIFORM DRESS CODE OF THE SELMA CITY SCHOOLS. This violation is listed below. Please do your part in helping the school maintain proper discipline by insisting that your child follow the uniform dress code for this school and the school system.
_____Shirt: Incorrect type or color _____Pants, Shorts, Skirt: Incorrect type _____Jewelry: Inappropriate or excessive _____Belt: Required with clothing that has belt loops _____Other:______
______
The above reflects a system-wide policy. Students who are not in school uniform daily will be responded to in the following ways:
*First Offense: Warning letter to parents, listing the specific violation(s). *Second Offense: Conference with parents, principal, and student; or in-school suspension for the day *Third Offense: Suspension for blatant disrespect of uniform policy
Your signature will indicate that you have received this notice and that your child will be in compliance with the Selma City Schools’ uniform policy upon returning to school.
______Student’s Signature Date
______Parent’s Signature Date
Sincerely,
______(Principal)
HR TEACHER AND OFFICE USE ONLY:
_____First Offense _____Second Offense _____Third Offense
_____Warning Letter _____Parental Conference _____Suspension
58 XXIII. Guidelines for Release of Student Education Records and Directory Information
The Selma City School System provides for the creation and maintenance of education records necessary for the education of students. Education records are those records, files, documents, and other materials that contain information directly related to a student and as further defined by the Family Educational Privacy Act. Education records are confidential and access to them is protected by federal law.
The following guidelines apply to the release of student education records: Parents or guardians shall be provided on request with a list of the types of records directly related to students that are maintained by the school system. Parents or guardians have the right to view and to receive copies of any records or reports which are part of their child’s education record. The school system will provide copies within a reasonable time not to exceed 15 working days of the request. Fees may be charged to cover the cost of providing such copies. If any material or document in the education record of a student includes information on more than one student, the parents or guardians of one of such students shall have the right to inspect and review only such part of such material or document as relates to such student or to be informed of the specific information contained in such part of such material. Parents or guardians have the right to challenge the content of educational records pertaining to their children and to request correction of any alleged inaccurate information contained in the records. Any such challenge may be dismissed if not made within a reasonable time.
Student Directory Information Federal law allows the school system to release directory information on all students. Directory information includes a student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. Parents or guardians have the right to request that such directory information on their children not be released. Any request that student directory information not be released must be made in writing to the building principal of your child’s school. All such requests must be received within 30 days of the beginning of school or within 30 days of a student’s admission if the student is admitted after the beginning of the school year. The school system is not required to release student directory information to the public. The decision to authorize release of student directory information shall be discretionary with the superintendent or his designee. Any release of student directory information shall exclude information that has been requested by parents or guardians not to be released, provided the request has been made above. All of the rights listed above may be subject to certain restrictions or constraints. Such rights are transferred from parent or guardian to the student once the student has attained the age of eighteen or is attending an institution of postsecondary education.
59 SELMA CITY SCHOOLS 2014 - 2015
PARENT/GUARDIAN/STUDENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORMS
INSERT SECTION
Student:______School:______
PARENTS PLEASE SIGN EACH FORM AND HAVE THE STUDENT RETURN THE FORMS TO THE HOMEROOM TEACHER. THIS WILL BECOME A PART OF THE STUDENT’S CUMULATIVE FILE.
60 ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I,______enrolled in ______School Student Name of school verify that I have received a copy of the Code of Student Conduct and realize that it is my responsibility to review the contents of this document with my parent(s)/guardian.
Signed______
I,______enrolled in______Name of student Name of school
Verify that I and my parent(s)/guardian hereby acknowledge by our signatures that we have received and read, or had read to us, the foregoing Code of Student Conduct.
(Signed)______Student
(Signed)______Parent(s)
(Signed)______Guardian
Date______
NOTE: Please have the student return this page to the homeroom teacher. The Acknowledgment will become a part of the student's cumulative file.
61 SELMA CITY SCHOOL SYSTEM
Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy
Student’s Agreement
Every student, regardless of age, must read and sign below:
I have read, I understand and agree to abide by the terms of the foregoing Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy. Should I commit any violation or in any way misuse my access to the Selma City School System’s computer network and the Internet, I understand and agree that my access privilege may be revoked and School disciplinary action may be taken against me.
PRINT CLEARLY:
Student Name:______Home Phone: ______
Address: ______
Student Signature: ______Date: ______
User (place and “X” in the correct blank):
I am 18 or older: ______I am under 18______
If I am signing this policy when I am under 18, I understand that when I turn 18, this policy will continue to be in full force and effect and agree to abide by this policy.
62 SELMA CITY SCHOOL SYSTEM
Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy
Parent’s or Guardian’s Agreement
(Student’s Name)
To be read and signed by parents or guardians of students who are under 18 years of age:
As the parent or legal guardian of the above student, I have read, I understand and agree that may child or ward shall comply with the terms of the Selma City School System’s Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy for the student’s access to the School System’s computer network and the Internet. I understand that access is being provided to the students for educational purposes only. However, I understand that it is impossible for the School to restrict access to all offensive and controversial materials and understand my child’s or ward’s responsibility for abiding by the Policy. I am therefore signing this Policy and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the School, the School System and the Data Acquisition Site that provides the opportunity to the School System for computer network and Internet access against all claims, damages, losses and costs, of whatever kind, that may result from child’s or ward’s use of his or her access to such networks or his or her access to such networks or his or her violation of the foregoing Policy. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision of my child’s or ward’s use of his or her access account if and when such access is not in the School setting. I hereby give permission for my child or ward to use the building-approved account to access the Selma City School System’s computer network and the Internet.
Parent or Guardian name(s) (PRINT CLEARLY)______
Home Phone:______Date:______
Parent or Guardian signature(s)______
Address:______
ADOPTED: REVISED: Children’s Internet Production Act of 2000 (H.R. 4577, P.L. 106-554) Communications Act of 1934, as amended (47 U.S.C. 254 (h), (I) Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended (20 U.S.C. 6801 et seq., Part F)
63 SELMA CITY SCHOOL SYSTEM
Use of Electronic Communication Devices Policy (6.19) and Alabama State Department of Education Policy on Use of Digital Device During the Administration of a Secure Test
Parent’s or Guardian’s and Student’s Agreement
(Student’s Name)
Parent/Guardian and Student: Please read, discuss, sign, and return this policy agreement to your child’s homeroom teacher.
6.19 Electronic Communication Devices (see stipulation for use on pp. 45-46) The use of personal, wireless communication devices by students is prohibited during school hours or while students are being transported on a school bus, except as provided for herein. Personal, wireless communication devices include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones, pocket pagers, email devices, "walkie talkies," or any other electronic communication device. During school hours, students are required to keep personal wireless devices in lockers, the school office, or other secure locations approved by the principal or his designee. The Board assumes no responsibility for theft, loss, or damage to any personal/wireless communication device. The principal or his designee may approve the use of such devices during medical emergencies, natural disasters, after regular school hours, at events or under circumstances in which the use of the devices serves safety and convenience without disrupting academic or school operations. Principals or their designees will also have the authority to restrict or deny the use of personal/wireless communication devices by any student due to misuse, abuse, or failure to abide by school rules regarding the use of such devices. School officials may read, examine, or inspect the contents of any such device upon reasonable suspicion that the device contains evidence of a violation of Board policy, the Code of Student Conduct, or other school rules.
[Reference: ALA. CODE § 16-1-27 (1975)]
Use of Digital Device During the Administration of a Secure Test The possession of a digital device (including but not limited to cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, or other telecommunication devices capable of capturing or relaying information) is strictly prohibited during the administration of a secure test. If a student is observed in possession of a digital device during the administration of a secure test, the device will be confiscated.
Over
64 If a student is observed using a digital device during the administration of a secure test, testing for the student will cease, the device will be confiscated and is subject to search, the student will be dismissed from testing, and the student’s test will be invaluable.
Student’s name (PRINT CLEARLY)______
Student’s signature______
Parent or Guardian name (s) (PRINT CLEARLY)______
Home Phone:______Date:______
Parent or Guardian signature (s)______Address:______
65