PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
Welcome to another school year at Alva Middle School. I am excited to begin this school
year with all of our parents, students, and staff, and my family and I feel privileged to be a
part of Alva Community. I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve you and your
children, and I am completely committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible educational experience for every student that enters our school doors.
I believe this year will be a pivotal year for AMS. We are in a transitional phase moving
from Priority Academic Student Skills, or PASS, to the soon to be established Oklahoma
Academic Standards. Our entire staff is committed to move forward with a positive perspective on the outcome of our transitional plan and we are all ready to work with our families and stakeholders as a unified team with a united goal.
Because AMS is an amazing school, I believe that all of us working together with a focused
plan will enable us to become one of the top schools in the state. This means that parent
participation and commitment serve as key pieces to having a successful school. We will
need parental involvement during and after the school day. We welcome you to be a part of
this growth because we realize that partnership and teamwork is absolutely necessary for
our success.
I look forward to working with everyone and celebrating every step we take as we move forward with continued success.
Respectfully,
Ron Sunderland
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School Board and Administration~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 4
Faculty and Staff~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~5
Traditions—Mission Statement~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 6
Parent Information:Student conduct and parent responsibilities~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~7
Philosophies and Creed~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~8
Goals and Lunch Prices~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~9
Principal’s Message~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~10
Daily Schedule and Contacts~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~11
Important Dates~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 12
Parent Information
STI Portal, Medical Condition~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~13
Attendance Policy~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~14
Unexcused Absences and Tardies~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 15
Academic Honesty and Accelerated Reader~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 16
Academic Program~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~17
Eligibility~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 18
Clubs and Organizations~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~19
Lunch Procedures~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~20
Discipline Policy~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~21
Student Behavior Code~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~22-23
Discipline: Suspension~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~24
Suspendable Infractions~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~25-26
Suspended Students~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 27-28
Personal Appearance Code~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~29
Electronic, Lockers~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 30
Student Safety~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 31
School Policy
Guidance, Media Center~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 32
Messages, School Hours~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~33
OCCT Tests, Promotion Policy, Change of Address~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~34
Child Nutrition Program~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~35
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Student Behavior~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~36-37
Special Education Services~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~38-39
General Information:
ELL, Grievance Procedure~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~40
Search, Theft, Printed Material~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~41
Dangerous Weapons Policy~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~42-43
Enrollment Requirements, Fundraising, Health Services~~~~~~~~~~~44
Immunizations, Medication~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~45
Lockers, Insurance~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~46
Parent/Teacher Conf., Minute of Silence, Safe Call~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~47
Visitors, Textbooks, Telephone, Withdrawal~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~48
Athletics Policy~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~49-51
FERPA~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~52-55
ADA Grievance Form~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~56-57
Acceptable Use Policy~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~59-61
Athletics Policy Signature Page~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~63
Title 1 Parent/School Compact~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~65
Student Handbook Signature Page~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~67
The purpose of the handbook is to furnish the student with the
needed information about the school in a concise and convenient form. It is designed to serve as a guide to the students of
Alva Middle School. There are certain regulations under which
you must function. It is impossible to incorporate all information into a handbook; however, you should find sufficient information in this handbook to enable you to fulfill most of your
responsibilities as a student. All the regulations in this handbook have been reviewed and approved by the Alva Board of
Education and are a part of the Board of Education policies.
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School Board
Mr. Steve Ellis…………………...………..……………….President
Mrs. Jane McDermott………………………………Vice-President
Mrs. Lynda Martin…….…………………………………….….Clerk
Mr. Larry Parker………...………………………….....Deputy Clerk
Mrs. Tiffany Slater…………...……………………………..Member
Adminstration
Mr. Steve Parkhurst…………………………...…..Superintendent
Mr. Ron Sunderland………….…….…Principal, Alva Middle School
Mrs. Alysson Tucker…….....Principal, Washington Early Childhood
Mr. Tim Argo…………………………...Principal, Lincoln Elementary
Mr. Steve Shiever………………....Principal, Longfellow Elementary
Mr. Les Potter……………………..….Principal, Alva High School
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Mrs. Kasey Adair………………………………………………………………………………………………....…………...6th & 7th Science
Mrs. Cara Bradt…………………………………………………………………….……………...………………...…….Instrumental Music
Mr. Mike Claflin……………………………………………………………………………...Special Education, Middle School Track
Mrs. Kaden Collins……………………………………………………………………………...6th and 7th Math, 6th Girls’ Basketball
Mrs. Ramona Cummings………………………………………...………………………….…………………....Vocal Music, Show Choir
Ms. Shannon Drew…………………………………………...……………….….….6th Literature, 7th Literature, Student Council
Mrs. Chri Hurst………...………………….………………………………..…....Family and Consumer Science, FCCLA Sponsor
Mrs. Jaci Heaton……………………………………...…………………………………………………………......….6th & 7th Geography,
Mr. Cody Hooper……………………………………………………...………...…8th U.S. History, P. E., Head Football, Head
Baseball, Asst. Boys’ Basketball
Mr. Jeff Levetzow…………………………………………………………………………………………...……..….8th Science, 6th Science
Ms. Heather Lohmann……………………………………………….……………….….…….6th Math, Advanced Math, Algebra 1
Mrs. Tanya Phillips……………………………………………………….……………….…..8th Language Arts, 6th Language Arts
Mr. Mike Shklar…………………………………………………..….……………….……………………………...U. S History, 8th Math
Mrs. Krista Starbuck…………………………………………………………….…………….….Special Ed, Reading, Language Arts
Mrs. Rose Marie Stout……………………………………………………….……………………..……………………………………..Spanish
Ms. Debbis Stroud………………………………………………………………...…………………..………7th Reading, Title 1 Reading
Mr. Ron Sunderland…………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………..Principal
Ms. Sierra Walker…….……………………………………………...…………………………….…………...…...Vocational Agriculture
Mrs. Karleen White………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….Media Specialist
Mr. Ryne Wilson……...…...…………………………….……………….……………….……...6th Social Studies, 8th U. S. History
Mrs. Keli Woods………………………………………..………………………………………………...……...….Tech Ed, TSA Sponsor
Mr. Rhett Wooten……………………………………………….…………..…Computers, Keyboarding, 6th & 7th Language Arts
Ms. Baylei Zehr……………………………………………………………………...6th & 7th Language Arts, Fast Pitch Softball
Ms. Shonda Smith………………………………………………………………….……………………….……….Administrative Assistant
Mr. Mark Carroll……………………………………………………………………..………..……………...…………..Technology Director
Mrs. Verleta Eckels……………………………………………………………………….………………….………….Food Service Director
Mrs. Patricia Gluth………………………………………………………………….…………………………...……………………….Custodian
Mrs. Kim Bowling………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Paraprofessional
Mr. Jim Case……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Paraprofessional
Ms. Lillie Fink……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…..Paraprofessional
Mr. Clayton Forrest……………………………………………………………...……………………………...……………..Paraprofessional
Mrs. Margo Hamilton…………………………………………………………………………………..………………..…...Paraprofessional
Mrs. Leilani Kern……………………………………………………………………………………………………….……….Paraprofessional
Ms. Jill Trout…………………….………………………………………………………………………………….Paraprofessional
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MISSION STATEMENT OF ALVA SCHOOLS
The mission of the Alva Independent School District #001 is to
provide the best educational opportunities for all students in a
safe and orderly environment by offering the highest quality programs and services with maximum efficiency in the use of available resources acquired from the district, state and federal
sources.
MISSION OF ALVA MIDDLE SCHOOL
The mission of AMS is to provide opportunities and encouragement for academic excellence, social interaction, emotional well
-being, and physical development utilizing teaching strategies
based on specific characteristics of the transitional needs of
the middle school student.
Goldbug Colors—Black and Gold
Mascot—Goldbugs
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NONDISCRIMINATION
It is the policy of the Alva Independent School District #001 to provide equal opportunities
without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, qualified handicap, nor veteran status.
STUDENT CONDUCT
The Alva Board of Education and the superintendent of schools may establish written policies, rules and
regulations of general application governing student conduct in all buildings. In addition, each principal,
within his/her building, may establish certain written rules and regulations consistent with those established by the Board of Education and the Superintendent.
The administration of the Alva Independent School District is appreciative of the cooperative attitude of
their students. It is important that our school learning atmosphere includes maintenance of order which
permits cooperative students to pursue their education free from disruptions or distractions. The maintenance of order necessitates regulations relating to school discipline.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITY
The ultimate responsibility for student behavior rests with the parents. The following are among
their specific responsibilities:
1)
Support the school in requiring students to observe all school rules and regulations and accepting the responsibility for any willful misbehavior on their part. Send students to school after
giving proper attention to health, personal cleanliness and hygiene, and neatness of dress.
2)
Maintain an active interest in the student’s work. Make it pos sible for them to complete as
signed homework, particularly by providing a quiet place and conditions for study.
3)
Help the student understand it is their responsibility to complete assigned work.
4)
Comply with the school’s requests. This includes reading carefully all communications and
signing and returning them as requested.
5)
Cooperate with the school in attending conferences set up for planning for its continuous
maintenance and improvements.
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THE MIDDLE SCHOOL is an educational institution which functions as a bridge to connect the elementary school with the upper secondary; consequently, the focus and
structure are uniquely its own. An effective middle school provides for the developmental needs of the ten to fourteen year age group with a program that stresses both the
development of basic academic skills and provides an environment that assists in their
exploration of personal interests. The basic functions of middle level education are integration, exploration, guidance, differentiation, socialization, and articulation. These functions should be incorporated into a flexible program, which stresses personal development and academic achievement. The middle school focuses on the diverse social, intellectual, emotional, and physical needs by providing opportunities for competence and
achievement; self-exploration and definition; social interaction with peers and adults;
physical activity; meaningful participation in the school and community; routines, limits,
and structure; diversity; self-discipline; and responsibility.
CREED OF ALVA MIDDLE SCHOOL
I BELIEVE I am a capable and dependable student, full of possibilities and
potential. There is no limit to what I can achieve.
I BELIEVE I must start today to prepare for my future by seizing every opportunity to learn. I will work hard, use my time wisely, and practice the values of
good citizenship. I pledge to accept the challenge to become a productive citizen and a lifelong learner.
I BELIEVE this is my time and my place. I will use each day to the fullest. I
promise that each day will be gained, not lost, used, and not thrown away.
I BELIEVE the choices I make today affect what I will have, what I will be, and
what I will do in the tomorrows of my life.
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GOALS OF THE MIDDLE SCHOOL
1. To provide for a transitional period between the self-contained classroom of the elementary
school and the departmentalized and specialized instruction found in the upper secondary.
2. To permit the organization of a program with the emphasis upon a continuation and enrichment
of the basic skills introduced in the upper elementary grades.
3. To provide an educational experience that will foster a favorable attitude toward school and
learning.
4. To provide a wide range of personal choice activities in the academic and exploratory areas of
the curriculum.
5. To provide for systematic development of interpersonal and small group interaction skills.
6. To develop skills of judgment based on sound moral and ethical principles.
7. To provide a program of guidance and personal services adapted to the needs of the ten to
fourteen year age group.
8. To provide health and physical education activities unique to this period of rapid physical growth.
9. To provide an environment that will stimulate in each individual a desire to seek knowledge, to
observe, to question, and to reach logical decisions.
10. To provide an atmosphere which instills a pride in self, school, and community.
11. To promote a sense of fair play in student attitudes and develop a respect for others, regardless
of race, creed, religion, or national origin.
LUNCH PRICES
Student Lunch—————————————————-$2.10
Student Breakfast———————————————-$1.70
Lunch (Employee)————————————————$3.00
Breakfast (Employee)—————————————--$2.00
Guest Lunch——————————————————–$4.30
Guest Breakfast————————————————-$2.00
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Daily Bell Schedule
First Bell
8:05
1st Period
8:10 — 8:58
2nd Period
9:02 — 9:50
3rd Period
9:54 — 10:42
4th Period
10:46—11 :34
Lunch
11:34 —12:09
Bug Break
12:15—12:35
5th Period
12:39 — 1:25
6th Period
1:29 — 2:15
7th Period
2:19 — 3:05
First lunch bell at
11:34
Recess Bell at
11:59
4 Minute passing time between classes
Lunch Detention in designated location
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Important Numbers
Principals’ Office — 327-0608
Superintendent’s Office — 327-4823
School Calendar
TEST DATES
Fall Semester Tests: Dec. 17-18
Spring Sem. Tests: May 19-20
Aug. 17-18
Teacher In-Service
Aug. 19
First Day of classes
Sept. 7
Labor Day
Oct 12-13
Parent/Teacher Conf
Oct. 14
End of 1st Quarter
Oct. 15-16
Fall Break
Oct 19
No School PT Observed
Oct 20
Begin 2nd nine weeks
Nov. 25-27
Thanksgiving Holiday
Dec. 22
End of first semester
Dec. 23- Jan. 1 Christmas holiday
Jan. 4
Teacher In-Service
Jan. 5
Classes Resume
Jan 18
Teacher In-Service
March 4
End of third quarter
March 7-8
Parent/Teacher Conf.
March 10
End 3rd Nine Weeks
March 11
No School PT Observed
March 14—18
Spring Break
March 21
3rd Quarter Begins
March 28
No school, Snow Day
May 19
8th Grade Promotion
May 19
Last Day of School
175 days taught
ACT
TEST DATE
MAIL BY
*Sept 13
Aug 8
*Oct 25
Sept 19
*Dec 13
Nov 7
*Feb 7
Jan 9
*April 18
Mar 13
*June 13
May 8
* Test given in Alva
SEMESTER TESTS
Fall— December 21&22
Spring—May 16 & 17
Feb 26, 2014 8th Grade W riting Test
Apr 10—29 OCCT Tests for 6th, 7th, and 8th
Apr. 14—May 2 Spring EOI Tests
Jun. 2 — Aug 1 Summer EOI Tests
5 In Service Days
We would ask that you avoid
scheduling trips or activities during the semester
test dates and the OCCT test
dates.
Semester Tests
To better prepare Alva Middle School students for Oklahoma Core Curriculum Tests (OCCT), End of Instruction
(EOI), and high school, all students will be required to take
comprehensive Semester Tests in all classes.
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STI Parent Portal
STI is a Web-based home-to-school collaboration that allows you to examine up-to-date information on your child’s grades, attendance, homework assignments, and more — all through a secure, easy to use online
link to school records.
Go to www.alvaschools.net.
Choose the Information Now banner and it will take you to the sign-in
page. You may contact the attendance office for a user name and password.
MEDICAL CONDITION
If a student becomes ill while at school, he/she should report to the
office. The student will be aided in contacting a parent.
If a student needs to take medication while at school, because of a
long term condition, the medicine must be left in the principal’s office.
The parent and the attending physician will need to sign a consent
form with instructions for the medicine to be dispensed to the student.
If a student needs special care at school due to some condition such
as diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, rheumatic fever, or a heart condition,
the parent/guardian should notify the principal’s office of the need.
Information should be on file with the principal, along with all
necessary instructions.
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The state laws of Oklahoma require compulsory school
attendance for anyone who has not reached the age of
eighteen (18), graduated from high school, or furnishes
satisfactory written evidence as to why the student
should not attend school. The work offered in school is
based on the assumption that the student will be present every day. No single factor will do more to aid you
in your progress in school than regular attendance.
A student who is absent more than 10 days of the
scheduled classes during a semester shall not receive a
passing grade for that course. A student must be in
attendance at least 90% to participate in athletic contests or other school activities. Hospitalization, contagious disease , family bereavement, or court visits constitutes an exception. Should you not agree with this
policy, your parent may call the office and set up an
appointment to appeal this ruling within five (5) days of
the final notification from Alva Middle School.
A student who exceeds the 10 day absence policy before the end of the semester, and does not have doctor
excuses on file must attend all classes including the one
(s) in which they have excessive absences. Failure to
attend may result in being suspended out of school for 3
-10 days, and the District Attorney will be contacted. A
parent conference will be required for re-admittance.
Once a student is absent for 10 or more days in a semester he/she must provide appropriate documentation
i.e. medical notes, court documents, etc in order for the
absence to be excused. If a student is absent from
school, parents should call the school at 327-0608 between 7:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. (preferably before 10:00)
on the day of the absence. From past experience, there
appears to be a better coordination between the home
and the school when a timely phone call is made. The
school will authorize absences due to illness, injury, or
family emergency that cannot be foreseen or prearranged prior to the day of the absence. Activities of an
educational nature which cannot be foreseen or prearranged prior to the day of the absence may be authorized at the discretion of the principal.
PREARRANGED ABSENCES:
If a parent knows in advance that the student will be absent for
more than one day in the near future, they can prearrange the
absence under the following conditions.
1. A notice of 3-5 days should be provided in writing from the
parent or guardian. Notice of less than 3 days will be considered
on an individual basis.
2. A prearranged absence form is obtained from the attendance office.
3. The student must return the completed prearranged form,
including parent or guardian signature, to the attendance office
MAKE-UP WORK
A student will be permitted to make up work missed during the day of an excused absence with the exception of
work which required his/her physical presence in the
class to complete (for example, certain drama and choir
experiences). No student shall have his/her grade lowered due to an absence which has been excused. Students who miss school because of excused absences or
for a scheduled activity shall have one (1) day for each
day missed to make up the missed school work. If a
student is in class when an assignment is made, or is in
attendance in the class prior to the due date, it is the student’s responsibility to have the assignment to the teacher on the due date. No make up will be allowed for an
unexcused absence and a 0 will be issued for the assignment that day.
CHECKING A STUDENT OUT DURING THE SCHOOL
DAY:
If it is necessary for the student to leave campus during
the school day (doctor’s appointment or funeral), the
parent/guardian will be required to personally check the
student out from the office. If you become ill during the
school day, go to the attendance office and your parents/guardian will be contacted. Do not stay in the
restroom. The student will not be allowed to leave campus if the parent cannot be contacted (the principal may
make exceptions in cases of emergency). The student’s
parent must sign-out in the office when leaving and signin upon returning to school.
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Absences for reasons other than those designated as authorized absences will be considered unexcused (truant). Assigned areas for students during the school day are established by the schedule and other directives of the principal or teacher. Failure to report to the assigned area or being located out of it constitutes truancy. Once an absence has been determined to be unexcused, only the principal involved may reverse
that decision. A student who is truant may make up the missed work at 75% credit by
voluntarily attending After School Detention or Tutoring with principal‘s approval.
TARDIES
Each teacher sets the definition for tardy
in his/her class. (If the student is more
than 10 minutes late, it is counted as an
absence.) Teachers handle the first
three (3) tardies in any one class per
semester. Teachers may use any combination of discipline measures: parent
contact, detention, etc.. A parent may
excuse one (1) of the first three (3) tardies their child has received if it is a bonafide excuse why the student could not
get to class on time. Any tardy after the
3rd may only be excused by a doctor’s
note. Any tardy after the 3rd will be referred to the office for the following discipline assignments:
4th tardy - 1 week supervised lunch
5th tardy - 2 days After School Detention
6th tardy - 2 days in-school detention
7th tardy - 5-8 days in-school detention
8 or more — possible Out-of–School
Suspension
The following discipline may be assigned
for unexcused absences per semester:
1st incident - 2 After School Detentions
2nd incident - 3 weeks lunch detention
3rd incident - 5 days ISD
Parent conference and D.A. will be contacted.
4th incident - 3 days Out-of-School
Suspension and D.A. will be contacted.
5th incident - 8-10 days Out-of-School
Suspension D.A. will be contacted. At the
option of the principal, this suspension may be
extended to include the succeeding semester.*
Note: Any unexcused absence may result in a truancy report being filled with the D.A or Police Dep.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE
A student may not be ABSENT for any day, or part of a
day, or TARDY for any day or class period , for the school
year to be recognized for perfect attendance. Absences for
school activities are exempt.
The most common reasons for being
assigned an unexcused absence include:
1. absent from school without parent’s
permission
2. leaving class without teacher’s
permission
3. leaving campus (building) without
principal’s permission
4. failure to sign out when leaving
5. failure to report to class within first
10 minutes of class
EXCUSED ABSENCE
An absence due to personal illness, death in the immediate
family, family crisis situation, court, doctor or dental appointments, or religious holidays may be considered excused. The school reserves the right to request written documentation to verify any absence.
CALL 327-0608 ON THE DAY THAT THE STUDENT IS ABSENT
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ACADEMIC HONESTY It is our goal that each Alva Middle School student model academic
honesty. Academic honesty reflects the ethical behavior of a student toward school curriculum, department institutions, and a student’s responsibility to achieve without any unfair or dishonest advantage. Academic honesty is an attitude that values honesty above grades, friendship, social acceptance, and peer pressure. Academic honesty is doing the right thing, even when no one else is
looking. Academic dishonesty is the attempt to obtain information, knowledge, or material from any
other source and submit it as one’s own work. This can be done either by giving or receiving information for homework, classroom assignments, or tests. Academic dishonesty in any form is not in
keeping with the expected ethical values of the Alva Independent School District and our community.
Any student who violates or aids/assists in the violation of academic honesty on any assignment, test
or project will receive the following consequences. In all cases, parents will be notified.
1st time-receive a “0” and after school detention
2nd time-receive a “0” and In School Detention (ISD)
3RD time-receive a “0” and 3 days In School Detention
4th time-receive a “0” and Out of School Suspension (OSS)
ACCELERATED READER POINTS
The Accelerated Reader is a computerized reading management program. It combines great children’s literature with a computer. It is an
individualized reading program that motivates students to read more
and better books.
Students at Alva Middle School are required to earn up to 25 AR points
each nine weeks, based on their STAR reading tests scores, as part of
their reading and language curriculum. Points earned, as well as averages on AR tests, count toward the students’ nine weeks grade.
Rewards are given to those students who reach their AR goals. Those
rewards can include: pizza party, swimming party, bowling party, special
picnic, etc.
Students who reach their AR goals all four nine weeks are eligible for a
special trip at the end of the school year. In the past, these trips have
included Frontier City and the Science Museum of Oklahoma.
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Honor Roll Criteria
Superintendent’s Honor Roll—All A’s
Principal’s Honor Roll—All A’s and B’s
Honors Program
ALVA MIDDLE SCHOOL OFFERS AN HONORS PROGRAM THAT IS
RECOMMENDED FOR HIGH EXCELLING, STUDENTS WHO WILL BE
PARTICIPATING IN COLLEGE BOUND AND HONORS CLASSES AT
THE HIGH SCHOOL. FOR 8TH GRADE STUDENTS, THE CURRICULUM CONSISTS OF CLASSES OFFERED AT THE MIDDLE SCHOOL
THAT WILL COUNT FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT. THOSE CLASSES
INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: ALGEBRA 1 AND SPANISH 1,
WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF MORE BEING ADDED IN SUBSEQUENT
YEARS. ADVANCED MATH IS OFFERED FOR HIGH ACHIEVING 6TH
AND 7TH GRADE STUDENTS. TO BE ELIGIBLE, A STUDENT MUST
SCORE PROFICIENT ON THE OCCT TEST, ACHIEVE A GRADE OF A
IN THE REGULAR SUBJECT CLASS, AND HAVE TEACHER RECOMMENDATION. THE STUDENT MUST ALSO MUST MAINTAIN A 3.0
GPA (B) IN THE ADVANCED CLASS TO REMAIN IN THE PROGRAM.
100-90
89-80
79-70
69-65
64-0
A
B
C
D
F
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements will be made each day at the beginning of the second class period. Announcements must be turned in to the office by 2:00 the
preceding day.
ASSIGNMENTS FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE ABSENT
Teachers will make assignment sheets for each student who is absent. The office will
pick up student’s work if requested by the parent. Otherwise, the student will pick up
work from the teachers when they return to school. DCA students will pick up assignments BEFORE they leave on an approved school activity.
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Eligibility requirements for the intra-school correspond with those set by the OSSAA. These apply to all
Alva School activities, including student elections. The principal has charge of all athletic contests and
determines the eligibility of the participants.
A student who has not attended classes 90% of the time on a weekly basis becomes ineligible. Students are allowed 3 absences at the beginning of each semester with the 4th absence
the 90% rule becomes effective.
Exception may be made by the principal due to illness, injury, death in the immediate family, or valid
reasons for late enrollment.
This eligibility policy is applicable for noncompetitive as well as competitive activities provided that one
of the following 3 criteria applies:
1. The event is sponsored by the OSSAA.
2. The event is considered inter-scholastic competition.
3. The event requires any loss of class time, including travel time.
1. A student must have received passing grades in any 5 subjects counted for graduation that he/she
was enrolled in during the last semester he/she attended fifteen or more days.
2. If a student does not meet the minimum scholastic standard, he/she will not be eligible to
participate during the first six weeks of the next semester he/she attends
3. A student who does not meet the above minimum scholastic standards may regain his/her eligibility
by achieving passing grades in all subjects he/she is enrolled in at the end of the six week period.
1. Scholastic eligibility for students will be checked at the end of the third week of the semester and each succeeding
week thereafter.
2. A student must be passing all subjects he/she is enrolled in during a semester. If a student is not passing all
subjects enrolled in at the end of a week, he/she will be placed on probation for the next one-week period. If a
student is still failing one or more classes at the end of his/her probationary period, he/she will be ineligible to
participate during the next one-week period. The ineligibility period begins on Monday and ends on Sunday.
3. A student who has lost eligibility under the above provision must regain passing grades in all of his/her classes
in order to regain eligibility. A student regains eligibility with the first class of the one-week period.
4. The weekly grade check is for the cumulative grade a student has earned for the current semester.
5. A teacher who has turned in a student ineligible on Wednesday may remove that student’s name no later than
Thursday (next day) by 3:30 p.m.
A student must maintain academic eligibility to participate in any authorized school activity. For academic eligibility purposes
authorized school activities include, but are not limited to, competitive events against other schools, field trips, student activities outside the normal school day, and non-classroom activities, school dances, field trips etc.
Any student who will be participating in an activity, must be present at school at least 50%
(3 1/2 classes) on the day of the activity or the day prior to the activity if the activity begins
before the start of the school day. Exception: If a doctor’s note is on file or funeral
arrangements were made for the previous day.
As required by the state department of education, all students are allowed 10 activity absences per class
period each academic school year. Excluded from this number are state and national levels of schoolsponsored contests. Once a Alva Public Schools student reaches seven (7) activity absences in any one
class period for the current school year, he or she must begin the application process for an extension
beyond 10 days. To be eligible for an absence extension you must be currently passing all of your classes. Any student who exceeds the approved activity absences in any one class period must apply for an
additional extensions. Students will not be allowed to exceed 15 activity absences for one school year,
pursuant to the rules adopted by the State Board of Education of February 28, 2008.
18
ACTIVITIES
Athletics and Physical Education
Physical education is provided to 6th grade
students. Competitive athletics and physical
education are offered to 6th, 7th and 8th
grade students. OSSAA approved physicals
are required for competitive athletics and
these must be on file before the child can
participate and before the first day of prac
tice.
Cheerleading
Cheerleaders are selected each year. They
should exemplify school spirit and pride at
all times. Cheerleaders are selected at the
end of each year. A cheerleader is expected to be a role model and follow all designated rules. Cheerleaders must follow
OSSAA guidelines for eligibility. Physicals
are required for cheerleading.
Student Council
Student council is a governing body consisting of members from all three grades. Their
objectives are to provide activities which
help build school spirit and pride. Members
of the council must maintain a grade average no lower than a C, or 2.0. The student
body chooses officers and representatives
in the fall.
Organizations
Student Council
Technology Student Association
FCCLA
Academic Team
The purpose of club activities is to give all students
an opportunity to join a group and to pursue certain
interests in an informal setting. Worthy use of
leisure time during adult life, as well as during high
school days, may result from participation in club
activities. Other clubs may be organized if students
indicate an interest in them and proper recognition
procedures are followed. Teachers appointed by the
principal sponsor all activities planned by individual
groups. It should be the rule that only members of
the organization should attend these activities. All
sponsors must be present at every activity planned
by the group.
There should be no recognized
meeting of a class or club unless the sponsor is
present. Alva students have done a wonderful job
of representing Alva Middle School and the Alva
community in other cities in which they have
participated in contests and activities. This is a
tradition that we hope will continue; therefore, the
sponsor of the activity may prohibit any student
from participation in any activity at any time.
Sponsors of a given activity may stipulate dress
code and appearance of its membership to conform
with participation of the specific group. Sponsors
may
establish
additional
requirements
and
regulations which they feel are necessary and
appropriate for their particular sport or activity. A
list of all students involved should be given to the
principal’s office two days before any trip. When
transportation is arranged for a group, every
member of the group is expected to go and return
with the group, unless another plan is cleared with
the faculty sponsor before the trip. Each vehicle
used must have an approved adult sponsor.
A student must meet eligibility requirements
if a club activity involves inter-school
competition or removes the student from
regularly scheduled classes.
19
.Alva
CLOSED CAMPUS
Middle School is a closed campus. Students may bring lunches to school or
eat in the school cafeteria. Students will be allowed to leave with their parents,
guardians or other adults after parent/guardian has followed check out procedures at the school office. Students will not be allowed to be checked out to or
leave with high school age students. Students are not allow ed to order
lunch from outside vendors to be delivered to the school.
AFTER LUNCH PROCEDURE
Plan 1 - Outside: Food and drinks are not allowed on the playground. All outside recreation
is geared toward student safety. Students are required to stay in the assigned areas and
away from the street.
Sixth and seventh grade student recess will be held on the west side of the building. Eighth
grade student recess will be on the east side of the building.
Students are allowed to play the following games during the noon break:
Football- Students may play flag football. No tackling will be permitted. Flag football
will be played on the northwest corner of the 6th & 7th grade playground and on
the south end of the 8th grade playground.
Wall Ball- Students may play wall ball on the north side of the gym on the 6th and 7th
grade playground and on the south side of the band room on the 8th grade playground.
Catch- Students who want to play catch with footballs may line up on the north edge
of the 6th and 7th grade playground with lines running east and west.
Plan 2 - Gym: Students will go to the gym at noon if the weather is bad. Students will stay
in the lunch area until they are directed by a duty teacher to relocate to the gym.
20
Discipline
Alva Public Schools School Board Policy—Regulation JK
AMS expects every student to be able to learn to control his/her own behavior and to take responsibility for his/her actions. There is a balance between meeting the needs of the group by maintaining
social order and meeting the unique needs of each student. Few choices work for all students and
teachers. The internal control means the students perceive the cause and their own outcomes. Students will find there are consequences of misbehavior.
The necessary rules are REPECT PEOPLE and RESPECT PROPERTY!!
Each student will be treated in a fair and equitable manner. The severity of any disciplinary
action will be based on a careful assessment of the circumstances surrounding each infraction. The
Board of Education will rely upon the judgment and discretion of the teacher and/or administrator to
determine the appropriate remedial or corrective action. Adults, students, teachers, and administrators establish the learning environment. Supervision is also the responsibility of every teacher or
adult in charge. The teachers must advise the administrator and the parents concerning the problems that arise. When reported problems arise, the teacher must decide the plan of action to pursue.
Options available are:
1. Teacher-student conference
2. Teacher-student-parent conference
3. Phone calls to parents
4. Detention
5. Corporal Punishment (administrator to be present)
These options are the choice of the teacher. Any of the options may be used at any time. Once the
teacher has tried option without success, the student will be referred to the administrator.
The administrator will have additional options that can be used to correct the student’s
problems, including:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Detention before or after school
In School detention (ISD
Out of School Suspension
Expulsion from school
Corporal punishment (certified teacher must be present
Saturday School
Repayment of damage
Involvement of law enforcement
Restriction of privileges
21
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT Corporal punishment may only be given to a student who has a “Parental Consent
to Administer Corporal Punishment” form signed by the student’s parent/guardian on file in the principal’s
office. “Swats”, defined as using a wooden paddle to administer with reasonable force to the buttocks of
students, will be given and witnessed by certified personnel in a school office, room or other place out of
the presence of other persons.
IN SCHOOL DETENTION (ISD) ISS is an alternative form of discipline for breach of more serious
issues. The student is removed from the regular educational environment yet continues to attend school and
receive instruction. ISD is during the regular school day in the ISD room. A student must serve ISD on consecutive school days. A student in ISD may lose his eligibility to participate in extra-curricular activities at
the discretion of the building principal. The administration will notify the parent/guardian by telephone or
written letter when a student has been placed in ISD. The classroom teachers will prepare assignments for
each student and will grade these assignments upon his/her return. Each student will receive credit for
work completed during this time.
OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) Suspension is the temporary denial by the school administration of the right to attend class, school, or school sponsored or authorized functions. The principal has authority to suspend a student for a period of up to, and including, ten (10) days. The student has the right to
appeal the suspension decision to a suspension appeal committee designated by the building principal. A student will be suspended from school for serious offenses and/or for multiple infractions of lesser offenses.
No student suspended from school shall participate in nor attend extra-curricular activities on school property or their sites where school activities occur during the period of suspension. A student shall serve the
assigned suspension period on consecutive school days. Be advised that the presence of a suspended pupil on
any public school campus is prohibited.
Parents will be notified of out of school suspension. A student shall receive an educational plan of the core
curriculum for days suspended beyond five (5) days. The parents shall bear the responsibility for monitoring
the student’s progress until the student is readmitted into school. Credit will be granted for academic work
completed beyond the five (5) days at the discretion of the administrator. For OSS over ten (10) days, the
student has the right to appeal the suspension decision to the board of education. The decision of the board
of education is final.
22
Gang related incidents– Gang related incidents in our school creates an atmosphere of intimidation
and harm. The mere presence of such conditions are disruptive and potentially dangerous. It is
therefore, the policy of Alva Middle School that gangs and gang related behavior or incidents are
prohibited at Alva Middle School. Definition and description: Gangs: Any assembly of three or more
individuals who gather together on a continuing basis, whose purpose, the district reasonably believes, is to commit antisocial behavior or to violate school district policy. Gang Related Behavior:
Any behavior or event , including, but not limited to the following items, which has the effect of disrupting school activities or which fosters, enhances, or encourages gang activity at Alva Middle
School.
1 Possession, wearing, use, distribution or display of any sign, symbol, badge, color or other item
that is evidence of affiliation with or membership in a gang. Students will not be permitted to
wear pants below the waistline (sagging and dragging), or wearing caps, bandannas, handkerchiefs or any other item associated with gang related behavior.
2 Participation in any act, either verbal or nonverbal, to include gestures, expressions, handshakes,
etc., that may indicate an affiliation with or membership in a gang.
3 Participation in any act that may further the interest in a gang.
4 Participation in any act that may be evidence of intimidation, threats, “pay for protection” or any
other behavior potential violence.
5 Participation in the writing, painting or inscribing gang-related graffiti to include messages, symbols, or signs at school.
6 Assembly or congregation as a gang or members of a gang for any purpose.
1st offense – Warning
2nd offense – 4 days OSS and 1 day ISD
3rd offense – 10 days to Semester OSS
CONDUCT AT SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS
Students shall follow the same rules at school-sponsored activities as they
follow at school. Inappropriate behavior will be dealt with, and students may
not be allowed to attend other outside school functions as determined by the
administrator. School functions are an extension of learning.
23
On of the most important lessons educating should teach is discipline. Discipline helps one to develop self-control, which is the basis for maturity and building sound relationships with others. In order
to provide quality education for all students, the school will not tolerate disruptive acts that would interfere with its orderliness, the safety of its students, or the damaging of its property. Disruptive behavior is defined as, but not limited to, inviting, encouraging, promoting, or participating in activities,
which interfere with the education process or the normal operation of the school. When a student
chooses to disregard school policies, effective punishments will be chosen from the following:
1. Warning
2. Advise parents
3. After School Detention
4. Removal from class no more than 5 days
5. In School Detention (ISD)
6. Parental Conference
7. Out of School Suspension (OSS)
8. Expulsion
9. Financial restitution
10. Lunch Detention
11. Any other disciplinary action deemed appropriate and necessary under the circumstances.
12. Suspended for the remainder of the current semester and the next semester if the suspension is
during the last nine weeks of the semester. This will be done at the principal’s discretion.
24
LEVEL 1 (Minor Infractions)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
1st Violation
Disruption of Class
3, 11
Dress Code Violation
1, 2, 3, 11
Food or Drinks in School
3, 4, 11
Public Display of Affection (PDA)
1, 2, 3, 4, 11
Disorderly Conduct
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7
Failure to Comply with Class Rules 1, 2, 3, 4, 7
Unnecessary Items at School
1, 2, 3, 4, 7
LEVEL 2 (Major Infractions)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Intentional Lying to Teacher or Staff
Disrespect Toward Staff
Obscenity
Obscenity Toward Staff
Total Lack of Effort In Class
Threats and Verbal Abuse
Precipitating a Fight
Bullying
LEVEL 3 (Serious)
1. Smoking, Chewing,
Possession of tobacco
2. Truancy
3. Theft
4. Fighting
5. Assault (Physical or Verbal)
6. Destruction of Property
7. Defiance of Authority
8. Activating Fire Alarm
2nd Violation
4, 6, 11
4, 6, 11
3, 4, 11
3, 4, 11
3, 4, 6, 7, 12
3, 4, 6, 12
3, 4, 6, 7, 12
3rd Violation
6, 8
6, 8
3, 4, 11
3, 4, 7, 11
4, 6, 12
4, 6, 8, 12
3, 4, 6, 8, 12
3. 4, 7
3, 4, 5, 6
4, 6, 11
2, 8, 12
3, 4, 5, 6, 7
3, 4, 6, 7, 12
3, 4, 6, 7, 12
1, 2, 3
6, 12
5, 6, 8, 12
6, 7, 11, 12
2, 8, 12
5, 6, 12
6, 8, 12
4, 6, 8, 12
4, 6, 7
8, 9, 12
8, 9, 12
8, 11, 12
2, 8, 9, 12
6, 8, 9, 12
6, 8, 9, 12
6, 8, 9, 12
8, 9, 12
8 (3 days)
8 (7 days)
13
4, 6
6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12
8 (3 days), 6
6, 7, 8, 11, 12
4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
6, 7, 8, 12
6, 8, 9, 12
6, 8
8, 9, 10
8 (5 days), 6
8, 9, 12
8, 9, 10
8, 9, 12
8, 9
8, 9
8, 9, 13
8 (10 days), 6
8, 9, 13
8, 9, 13
8, 9, 12, 13
8, 9
Levels could change with succeeding violations.
This schedule will be interpreted by the administration in a manner deemed just, given the circumstances of the individual case. The administrator will have the authority to enforce other reasonable disciplinary actin, which they find
warranted by situations not covered in the disciplinary action schedule.
25
DUE PROCESS
An evidentiary hearing will be held by an
administrator for any student who might face suspension. No eviAfter investigation, if deemed necessary, and after
dentiary will be needed if the student admits to the charges; only
a hearing, an administrator may order a student
alternative punishments need be considered, and, if suspension is
suspended from school for not more than the baldetermined to be appropriate, the length of suspension need be
ance of the current semester and the succeeding
determined. For a suspension of 10 days or less, an appeal to a
semester (unless state law permits a suspension of
committee may be made by the student or parent. Any request for
a longer length of time) one year from the date of
such an appeal must be received within 3 days of the initial susthe decision and in accordance with the laws of
pension decision by the administration. Unless the appeal commitOklahoma and policies set forth by the school
tee can meet quickly to determine whether the suspension will be
board. The hearing may be made immediately after
upheld, modified or overturned, the committee will meet to deterthe infraction occurs. The administrator will conmine the appropriate placement of the student prior to the hearing,
sider in-school punishments all possibilities for
keeping in consideration the best interest of the student body as
correction prior to making a determination for corwell as other appropriate alternative placements. If the student is
recting behavior. If the appropriate punishments
allowed to remain in school, pending the appeal and the initial susare prescribed by policy, law or practice, the adpension is upheld, the number of days the student remained in
ministrator will adhere to those selected punishschool shall be added at the conclusion of the suspension. The
ment limits unless extreme circumstances are
appeal committee shall determine the guilt or innocence of the stuprevalent and warrant additional consideration.
dent and the reasonableness of the term of the out-of-school suspension. The decision of the committee shall be final. The student
Long Term Out-Of-School Suspensions
may present any written arguments or documentation to the apFor suspensions of more than ten days, any requested peals committee for its consideration. No witness will be heard
review of the initial decision of the administrator must be unless desired by the committee.
submitted to the principal within 3 days. The review shall
be conducted by an assigned administrator. If the assigned administrator does not withdraw the suspension, the student may
request an appeal before the board of education. The board of education shall review the documentation of the administrative
hearings and determine the guilt or innocence of the student and the reasonableness of the punishment. The student may submit any written documentation or arguments to the board for its consideration. The appeal to the board is an appeal, not a new
hearing of witnesses upon the appeal unless requested by the board. Students on a long term suspension will be offered an
educational plan which normally consists of taking semester tests in core classes to earn credit up to a 79% for the semester.
GENERAL DISCIPLINE
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
When a student is placed on out-of-school suspension (OSS), the student does not
report to school. He/she may not attend or participate in any Alva Public Schools sponsored activity home or away or be on school
property during the term of the suspension unless approved by the administration. The student receives zero’s for the missed
schoolwork. This work may be made-up at 75% credit according to the following plan. The student may get their assignments from
other students during the suspension and complete that work. Immediately upon return to school the student should:
1 turn in their completed work to the teacher for 75% credit. (The 75% credit will be applied to the student’s grade now, but may revert
to a zero if the student doesn’t complete the required detention).
2 arrange with each teacher a schedule for timely completion of tests or labs and any remaining assignments missed during
suspension for 75% credit, pending successful completion of After School Detention or In School Detention
3 arrange with the principal a schedule of In School or After School Detention for the appropriate number of suspension days. Failure
to attend according to the schedule may result in the appropriate number of grades reverting to zeros.
If the student fails to take advantage of the above suspension make-up opportunity, zero grades will remain on the student’s record until
Saturday School is attended or deadline is elapsed.
26
1. Disruption of school: A student may not, by the use of violence, force noise, threat, fear, passive resistance or
any other means intentionally cause the substantial and/or material obstruction of any function of the school.
2. Damage or destruction of school or private property: Parents are responsible to pay for the damages.
3. Weapons and dangerous instruments: A student shall not knowingly possess, handle, or transmit any object
that can be reasonably considered a weapon at any time during school hours, school activities, or while going to
or from school. This offense is suspendable up to 1 year.
4. Assault or causing personal injury: A student shall not intentionally cause or attempt to cause personal injury
or behave in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person during school, while engaged in
school activities, or while going to or from school.
5. Fighting Consequences: 1st fight: 3-5 days suspension. All suspension may be out-of-school except last day
which is ISD. 2nd fight: 5-10 days out-of-school suspension. 3rd fight: Possible suspension from school for the
remainder of the semester. All fighting offenses will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
6. Tobacco: Possession of tobacco or tobacco related products by students are prohibited at school and school
sponsored activities. Possession of tobacco products by a minor is a misdemeanor and will be reported to law
enforcement. 1st offense - 3-5 days ISD -2nd offense - 3 - 5 days OSS—3rd offense - 10 days OSS or possible
suspension for the remainder of the semester. (21 O.S.§ 24-101.3;S.L.O.§ 488.2) Ordinance.# 1344
7. Alcohol: A student shall not knowingly possess or be under the influence of alcohol at school or any school activity. Whenever it appears to any public school teacher that a student may be under the influence of low alcohol
beverages, as defined in Section 2-101 Title 63 of the Oklahoma Statues, that teacher shall report the matter upon recognition, to the school principal or his/her designee. The principal shall immediately notify the superintendent of schools and a parent/guardian of the student of the matter. The student will be subject to the following
discipline: 1st offense: The student will receive five (5) days In School Suspension and be required to attend two
documented counseling sessions outside school hours and will not participate in school activities for a period of
two (2) weeks. 2nd offense: The student will receive ten (10) says In School Suspension plus a recommended
drug and alcohol assessment and will not be allowed to participate in school activities for a period of 90 days.
Third Offense: The student will be suspended out of school for a period of five (5) days without the opportunity to
make up the work and will not participate in school activities for 175 days.
8. Narcotics and Stimulant Drugs: A student shall not knowingly possess, use, transmit, be under the influence
of, or show evidence of having used any prescription, narcotic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverages, or intoxicants of any kind while in any way connected with the school during regular school
hours and school activities. A student shall not knowingly possess, use, transmit, be under the influence of, or
show evidence of having used any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, stimulants, counterfeit drugs, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind while in
any way connected with
the school during regular hours, school activities, or going to and from school. Definition/policy A. The selling,
distribution or purchase of illegal drugs, or any item believed to be mind or body altering substance, use of/
possession of/under the influence of drugs, steroids, or prescription medication to anyone other than the person
for whom the prescription was written, or nonprescription medication for improper purposes. The student may be
suspended from school for the remainder of the semester and possibly the succeeding semester.
B. Students in possession of drug paraphernalia of any kind while in any way connected with the school during
regular school hours and school activities may be suspended from school for ten days up to one semester.
This applies to being on school property at any time.
(Continued on page 28)
27
(Continued from page 27)
9. Repeated school violations: A student shall not repeatedly fail to comply with school district policies, school
rules, or with the directions of teacher, student teachers, substitute teachers, teacher assistants, principals or other authorized school personnel during any period of time when he/she is properly under the authority of school
personnel.
10. Inappropriate language: Students may not use obscene or profane language or gestures while at school. Alva
Middle School does not tolerate students who use racial slurs at school or during school activities. Students who
use obscene language in their everyday conversation may be assigned Saturday school for the first offense.
Other infractions may result in ISD or OSS. Students who use inappropriate language or gestures directly toward
a teacher will be suspended out-of-school up to ten (10) days or possibly the remainder of the semester.
11. Harassment: The policy of ALVA PUBLIC SCHOOLS is to encourage all students to act like ladies and gentlemen and be considerate of others at all times; furthermore the policy forbids discrimination against, harassment,
or bullying of any student for any reason. Classroom teachers will be on a constant watch for unacceptable behavior in the classroom as well as hallways, commons area, etc. Bullying will not be tolerated at Alva Middle
School. Students who feel they are a victim of bullying or any type of harassment should report it immediately to
a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Disciplinary actions used to prevent additional bullying will include but not
be limited to Peer Mediation, Saturday Schools, In-School-Detention and Out-of -School Suspension.
12. Students may not:
A. deprive other students of the use of school facilities,
B. block entrances or exits,
C. block pedestrian or vehicle traffic on campus (see section on traffic), or
D. continuously and intentionally make noise or act in any manner so as to interfere with the teacher’s ability
to conduct class.
13. Cheating: The first time any student caught cheating in any form will receive a “zero” for the assignment. The
second offense of cheating will cause the student to receive a “zero” and In School Detention. Any other problems of this nature may cause the student to receive a “F” for the semester and possible OSS assigned. Teachers will be required to complete a discipline form to be kept on file in the student’s discipline file in the office and
contact the parent on all violations.
14. Exposure: Any student who exposes himself/herself, witnessed or non-witnessed, while at school or any school
trip or activity may be suspended out-of-school up to ten days. Any student who disposes of body fluids or waste
products in any way except in receptacle provided for that purpose in designated areas may be suspended out-of
-school for up to ten days.
15. Theft: Any student who knowingly takes without permission, is in possession of, or is concealing property of another student, teacher, or Alva Public Schools will be subject to suspension and charged according to local, state,
and federal laws.
28
STUDENTS SUSPENDED BY ANOTHER SCHOOL Section A
Alva Independent School District will prohibit any student who is under suspension from another
school (public or private) from enrolling in the Alva School District. (hereafter the “Prohibition
Term”). This prohibition includes students who establish or attempt to establish a bona fide residency within the Alva Independent School District either before or during their suspension
from another school. Any student subject to a Prohibition Term pursuant to this policy may appeal that decision to the Superintendent or his/her designee by requesting such an appeal within
five (5) working days (excluding weekends) of the student’s notice of the decision. Any student
dissatisfied with the decision of the Superintendent or his/her designee may appeal that decision to the Board of Education by requesting such an appeal within five (5) working days
(excluding weekends) of the student’s notice of the decision. Student appeal requests to the Superintendent and to the Board must be made in writing to the Superintendent. Failure to appeal
in a timely manner waives all rights to further challenge such decision. On appeal, both the Superintendent or his/her designee and the Board of Education will consider the following issues:
1. whether the student is under suspension from another school
2. the reason for the suspension.
If the student was suspended from another school for a violent act or an act showing deliberate
or reckless disregard for the health or safety of faculty or the students, and then the Prohibition Term will be upheld. The student will be eligible to enroll following the expiration of the Prohibition Term except as otherwise provided in Section C. of this Policy. If the student was suspended from another school for other than a violent act or an act showing deliberate or reckless
disregard for the health or safety of faculty or other students, then the Superintendent or his/
her designee will also consider (3) whether the length of the suspension and any conditions imposed pursuant to the suspension are consistent with the Alva School District’s suspension policy
for the same or similar offenses. If the answer to three (3) is in the affirmative, the Prohibition
Term will be upheld. The student will be eligible to enroll following the expiration of the Prohibition Term. If the suspension imposed upon the student is found to be inconsistent with the Alva
Independent School District’s student suspension policy or practices for similar offenses, then
the Superintendent or his/her designee may consider modifications to the Prohibition Term and/
or the conditions associated with that Prohibition Term to make the Prohibition Term consistent
with the Alva Independent School District’s suspension policy or practices. Any student dissatisfied with the decision of the Superintendent or his/her designee may appeal that decision to the
Board of Education by requesting in writing such an appeal within five (5) working days (excluding
weekends) of the student’s notice of the decision. The student will be eligible to enroll following
the expiration of the Prohibition Term, as modified.
29
STUDENTS SUSPENDED BY ANOTHER SCHOOL Section B
The Alva Independent School District will not approve a transfer of any student who is under suspension from another public or private school district at the time of the student’s proposed transfer.
STUDENTS REMOVED FROM SCHOOL BY ADMINISTRATIVE OR JUDICIAL PROCESS Section C
The Alva Independent School District will not provide education services in the regular school
setting to any student who has been adjudicated as a delinquent for a violent offense or convicted as an adult or a violent offense or who has been removed from a school (public or private) by
administrative or judicial process for a violent act or an act showing deliberate or reckless disregard for the healthy or safety of faculty or other students until the Alva Independent School District determines that the student no longer poses a threat to himself, other students or faculty.
Any student excluded from the regular school setting pursuant to this policy may appeal that decision to the Superintendent or his/her designee by requesting an appeal within five (5) working
days (excluding weekends) of the student’s notice or the decision. Any student dissatisfied with
the decision of the Superintendent or his/her designee may appeal that decision to the Board of
Education by requesting such an appeal within five (5) of the student’s notice of the decision.
Such appeal requests to the Superintendent and to the Board must be made in writing to the Superintendent. Failure to appeal in a timely manner waives all rights to further challenge such decision.
Upon appeal, both the Superintendent or his/her designee and the Board of Education will consider the following issues: (1) whether the student has been removed from school by administrative or judicial process; (2) whether the reason for removal was a violent act or an act showing
deliberate or reckless intent.
30
DRESS CODE
Students at Alva Independent Schools are expected to dress appropriately, be neatly
groomed and shoes must be worn for the school setting. Clothing, accessories, or hairstyles that in the judgment of the principal create a foreseeable disruption to the educational environment or create a risk of health or safety to any person are prohibited at
school or any school related activity. Disallowed clothing, jewelry, and accessories include,
but are not limited to:
1.
Clothing that reveals the midriff or inappropriately exposes other areas of
the body (including legs) or undergarments.
2.
“Cut-off” shorts
3.
Jeans or other pants with holes which expose skin above the knee.
4.
Skirts and shorts must reach below a students finger tips with their
arms held to the side in a normal stance.
5.
“Yoga” type pants or stretch pants must be covered to the point designated in rule #4.
5.
Sleeveless tops must cover to the point of the shoulder.
6.
Tops with spaghetti straps, halter type tops, backless or see through
clothing.
7.
Low neck-lines, front or back.
8.
Caps/hats (indoors)
9.
Skin illustrations or hair styles that promote directly or indirectly alcohol,
chemical abuse, tobacco, and criminal behavior
10.
Piercings are restricted to ears only.
11.
Clothing and/or athletic uniforms worn in a manner which is revealing, disruptive, or inappropriate for school setting
12.
Gang colors or symbols including but not limited to:
a.
“Sagging” or baggy pants, sunglasses and wallet chains
b.
Inappropriate moral conduct; nudity (partial or whole)
Obscenity; profanity; any form of violence, weapons, lettering or numerical figures that are profane or repulsive.
13.
Pajama bottoms (PJ) or slippers.
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Cell Phones or other Electronic Devices
Students are not to use cell phones or other electronic devices in the school during the school
day. Students should leave cell phones or other electronic devices turned off. If your cell
phone or other electronic device is in use during class or hallways or disrupts class in any way
the following actions will be taken.
1st incident—Confiscation until end of day-- 2 days After School Detention will be assigned
2nd incident—Confiscation, parent must pick up, 1 day In School Detention will be assigned
3rd incident — Confiscation, parent must pick up, 2 days In School Detention will be assigned
Any subsequent infraction—confiscation, parent must pick up, - In School Detention or possible Out of School Suspension will be assigned.
**Failure to surrender a cell phone/electronic device to the classroom teacher will result in automatic 3-5 days ISD. Failure to do the same to office personnel will result in
automatic 3-5 days OSS.
ELECTRONIC AND RECORDING DEVICES:
No electronic or recording device such as: cell phones, cameras, I-Pods, MP3 players, or CD
players, etc. will be allowed in class without prior teacher approval. Headphones are not to be
worn in the hallways. For discipline see above.
LOCKERS
Students are assigned lockers at beginning of school. Students remain responsible for any item in
their locker or items checked out to them. Students are expected to use only the locker assigned to
them and keep them clean and neat at all times. Students have no reason to expect right of privacy
from school officials where school lockers, desks or other school property is concerned. (O.S. 1987
24-102)
USE THE LOCKER ASSIGNED TO YOU -Books will be removed from unassigned lockers.
32
DRILLS
A fire drill or alarm will be a series of short blasts emanating from the fire safety system in varying locations throughout the school building. A tornado drill or alarm will
be a long bell. An intruder or lockdown drill will be initiated through a preciously coded vocal announcement through the school’s intercom system. A map of escape exits is posted in each room. Teachers will review this with all students. Fire, tornado ,
intruder, and lockdown drills will be held throughout the year and should be treated
in a serious manner.
FIRE PLAN
1. Alarm is series of short blasts and will sound.
2. Stay quiet at all times.
3. Line up single file at the door.
4. Move to the assigned areas. If there is smoke in halls stay close to the
floor.
5. Teachers will walk all students to a safe area as directed by their teacher
and remain there until an all clear alarm is sounded or other instructions have
been given by the building principal or other designated person.
6. Stay with the teacher and listen for roll check.
WEATHER PLAN
1. Alarm is a long continuous bell.
2. Stay quiet at all times.
3. Line up single file at the door.
4. Move to areas directed by their teacher.
INTRUDER AND LOCKDOWN DRILLS
These drills will be discussed and practiced with students during scheduled meetings
and assemblies.
33
Guidance
Guidance services are available for every student in the school. These
services include assistance with educational planning, interpretation of
scores, careers education, study helps, help with home, school and/or
social concerns, as well as individual and group counseling. Parents and
students wishing to visit a counselor should contact the counselor in the
guidance office to arrange an appointment.
The testing program is one method of determining the academic level,
interests and abilities of students. This information enables the school
to assist all students in achieving success in school. Test information is
available through the counselor to the student, parent, and teachers. A
cumulative record is kept for each student that contains a comprehensive record of the student throughout his/her school years.
Media Center
The media center exists to serve the needs of our students and teachers. The new technology
will widen opportunities for research and individual curiosity and exploration. It provides materials, which support the curriculum as well as providing materials, which are used, for pleasure
reading. Books are checked out for a period of two weeks. If a student is not finished reading
the book in two weeks, he/she may recheck the book. There is a fine of five cents per day on
any book that is kept past the check in time. If a student has an overdue book, he/she will be
notified by the librarian. Media center privileges may be revoked or students who fail to pay
fines or return books. Magazines may be checked out overnight. Encyclopedias cannot be
checked out. They are to be used in the media center. If a student has special needs, be sure
to check with the librarian. Each year the AMS Media Center participates in the Sequoyah Book
Award Program. Students will want to pay particular attention during the year as the librarian
tells students about the Sequoyah books. The media center also operates the Accelerated
Reader Program. Students will be required to earn a specified number of points by the classroom teacher. Points are earned by reading and passing a test on an AR book. Students may
take tests for points in the media center at his/her convenience as long as arrangements are
made with the librarian. A teacher or the librarian must be present when students begin testing.
Students who earn points above those required may earn prizes and special privileges.
34
Messages
Messages to students and teachers will be delivered the last ten minutes of each
class period. Emergency messages will be delivered immediately.
School Hours
1ST Bell—8:05
Tardy Bell—8:10
1st Period Begins—8:10
End of Last Period--3:05
Arriving at School: Parents are requested to drop students off in the morning and
pick them up in the afternoon on the east side of the building. Traffic and
safety problems are created when students are dropped off on Flynn Street. Students who live in town should not arrive at school earlier than 7:45 AM.
Alva Middle School students will go directly to the cafeteria each morning and be
seated until the first bell rings. Students will sit at the designated seating areas.
Students may enter the middle doors by the front office to conduct school business
before school. The Media Center will not be open before school. No students will be
allowed in the halls before school. If prior arrangements have been made, students
may meet with teachers for conferencing, make up tests, or additional help on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday mornings.
35
Students Not Scoring Proficient on OCCT Tests: Students
who do not score at least proficient, or satisfactory, on the Oklahoma
Core Curriculum Tests in reading or math are required to take a remedial class the next year if personnel, resources (or money) are available.
This class will count as an elective class and will not substitute for the
core class.
This remedial class will be designed to re-teach important PASS, or Oklahoma Academic Standards, objectives that a student is lacking. Students will take this remedial class for one semester in place of an elective class.
Student Promotion Policy: Students must be passing in three or
more of the five-core curriculum areas (reading, language, science,
math and social studies). Students who are enrolled in only four core
curriculum areas must be passing in two or more of those classes
(Math, Science, Language, and Social Studies). Students failing to
meet these criteria will be considered for retention. Parents will be notified throughout the year of the student’s progress. The decision to retain will be made by a school team including the teacher(s), counselor,
and principal.
Change of Address: All serious accidents or illnesses are reported
to parents. Please keep an updated phone number, address and person
to contact for emergencies on file in the school office.
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Breakfast Program
The breakfast program at Alva Middle School begins at 7:45 each morning. NO EARLY ARRIVALS WILL BE ALLOWED TO ENTER THE BUILDING. The breakfast
program is for all Alva Middle School and Alva High School students.
LUNCH/MILK PROGRAM
Due to excess charging of lunches and extra milk , the policy concerning the Alva School Lunch Program is as follows:
(1)Students from the middle school will be allowed to charge for five (5)
days. NO CHARGES WILL BE ALLOWED THE LAST TEN (10) DAYS OF
SCHOOL.
(2)No extra milk will be charged. All extra milk MUST be paid in advance.
(3)Sack or cold lunches may be brought from home. Be sure to identify
you student’s box or sack. Milk or juice in a thermos or unbreakable
container may be brought from home.
(4) Applications for FREE or REDUCED lunches are available at the
school office.
(5) School lunch prices are listed on page 9.
Food Service Reimbursement Policy: As per Alva I ndependent School District Policy, lunch, milk, or breakfast balances of less than $4.99 or less are not refundable.
37
Hazing Prohibited
No students organization or any person associated with any organization sanctioned or
authorized by the Board of Education shall
engage or participate in hazing. Hazing
means an activity which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical
safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission in or affiliation with any
organization operating under the permission
of the Board of Education or administration.
“Endanger the physical health” shall include
but not be limited to any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, forced
calisthenics, exposure to the elements,
forced consumption of any food, or any other
substance, or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the individual; and
“Endanger the mental health” shall include
any activity, except those authorized by law,
which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as prolonged
sleep deprivation, forced prolonged exclusion
from social contact, forced conduct which
could result in extreme embarrassment, or
any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of
the individual. (O.S. 21-1190).
BULLYING
Bullying includes but is not
limited to:
 Repeated aggressive behavior or intentional harmdoing
 Can be physical, verbal,
emotional, or sexual
 Carried out repeatedly over
time
 Occurs within an interpersonal relationship characterized by an imbalance of
power
HARRASSMENT
Harassment includes, but is not limited to: OFFENSIVE teasing, uncontested communications with another student, taunting, slanderous
remarks regarding another student
(O.S. 21-1990), and is prohibited
and will be subject to disciplinary
action, including suspension.
SEXUAL HARRASSMENT
Sexual harassment is behavior shown toward another person without coerced consent that is personally OFFENSIVE to that person. It debilitates morals and therefore interferes with the working or learning effectiveness of its victims and their peers. Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to: gestures, jokes, touching
in a sexual way (grabbing, pinching, and “brushing against” another person), symbolic, verbal and written
communications with sexual innuendos, and the dissemination of information (gossip), true or false, about
a person. Sexual harassment in any form will not be tolerated and complaints will be turned over to the SRO
for investigation.
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Interrogation of Students
In the event it is necessary for properly identified officials of agencies who have
a right of access to students to interrogate or interview students at school during
school hours, the school shall cooperate on the following basis:
1. Interrogation (School Resource Officer): I t is the responsibility of the
SRO to notify the parent or legal custodian prior to an interrogation. When
the interrogation is performed by the SRO, the principal or designee will be
present during the interrogation. A recording of the interrogation may be
made by the principal.
2. Interview (SRO, DHS, and Court Related Community Service Personnel): The agency official may notify the parent/ legal custodian prior
to an interview; however, it should be recognized that sometimes circumstances preclude notification prior to the interview or would impede the investigation. The principal or designee shall be present during the interview. The
principal may make a recording of the interview.
SEARCH OF A STUDENT’S PERSON
The superintendent, principal, teacher, or security personnel of any public school int eh State
of Oklahoma, upon reasonable suspicion, shall have the authority to detain and search or authorize the search, of any pupil or property (including personal vehicles) in the possession of
the student when said student is on any school premises, or while in transit under the authority of the school, or while attending any function sponsored or authorized by the school, for
contraband, as defined by Section 163.2 of Title 37 of the Oklahoma Statutes, electronic devices, including cell phones, or for missing property if said property be reasonably suspected
to have been taken from a pupil, a school employee, or the school during activities. The
search of a person shall be conducted by a person of the same sex as the person being
searched and shall be witnessed by at least one other authorized person, said person to be
of the same sex if practical. No student shall be strip searched. Contraband and other property authorized to be on school property or school sponsored activities will be seized for evidentiary purposes in a school hearing and/or legal hearing.
39
Special Education Services
1. Special Education services are provided by students who qualify. They include
but are not limited to: speech, hearing, developmental needs, language
needs, and talented education. Note: In changing the placement of students
identified as “disabled” under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Alva Independent School District will follow state and federal laws and regulations.
PSYCHOMETRIST
Alva Independent School District has a psychometrist on staff. Testing and evaluation services are
provided.
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LIBEL
Libel is a written, false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual which tends to
harm an individuals reputation.
Libelous accusations will result in
disciplinary and possible legal action.
LITTERING
Students are expected to show pride in Alva Independent Schools and be good neighbors around our campuses. Students are expected to place their trash in the appropriate containers both inside and outside the building. Students who litter will subject to
disciplinary action.
OBSCENITY/PROFANITY
MISINFORMATION
Obscene material including, but not limited to,: illustrations (drawings, paintings, photographs), oral or written
materials (books, letters, poems, notes, tapes, Cd’s, DVD’s.
videos), which are commercially or student produced are
prohibited. Students may not use obscene or profane language or gestures including, nut not limited to: symbols
(verbal or written), while at school or school sponsored
activities, Students who use obscene language in their
everyday conversation may be assigned to ISS and/or
corporal punishment for the first offense. Other infractions may result in OSS. Students who use inappropriate
language or gestures toward a teacher or other staff member will be suspended out of school for a period of five (5)
to ten (10) days., or possibly the rest of the semester.
Misinformation is willfully giving
misinformation by commission
(lying) or omission forming by false
or unreported statements.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
(PDA)
Inappropriate physical contact including but not limited to: intimate touching, kissing at school or school sponsored activities is prohibited. Students
in violation of this policy will be disciplined.
41
LANGUAGE OTHER THAN ENGLISH
Each student’s cultural heritage will be respected, and in appreciation for diverse
backgrounds, will be encouraged in the school setting. Classroom instructions will
be given in English, and the student’s response is expected in English with the obvious exception of foreign language classes. If a student is having difficulty with
the spoken English language and needs concept clarification in his/her native language, the effort will be made to find help within the school or among parent volunteers. Conversational use of the student’s native language will be accepted outside the classroom as long as it is within the bounds of good taste the English
speaking students are expected to follow. Profanity or personal insults in any language will not be tolerated.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
1. If the issue involves a teacher, the student or parent will address the issue
with the teacher. If the issue is not resolved, the issue will be brought before
the principal.
2. If the issue involves another student or other school personnel, the parties will
address the issue with the principal.
3. Of the issue is not resolved, the parties will bring the issue before the superintendent.
4. If the issue is not resolved, the parties may file for a hearing with the Board
of Education through the office of the superintendent at seven (7) days prior
to the next scheduled board meeting. The decision of the board is final.
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PRINTED MATERIAL
All printed or written
materials, signs, or
posters, not posted by
the Alva Independent
Schools, must have the
approval of the superintendent. Failure to obtain proper clearance
may result in disciplinary action.
SEARCH OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
All property such as lockers, desks,
books, and laptops that are assigned
to students is the property of Alva
Independent Schools. The student
will be given a temporary right to use
property, and this right may be revoked at any time. School property
will not be used to store materials or
objects that are in violation of school
rules. The school principal or designee may authorize the search of
school property temporarily assigned
to a specific student without the
permission of the student or the
presence of the student. Students
have no expectation of privacy as to
lockers, desks, laptops, or other
school property temporarily assigned
for their personal use. School personnel may remove from lockers or
desks any articles that are prohibited at school or could be used to interfere with or disrupt the educational process.
STEALING, DESTROYING, OR DEFACING SCHOOL PROPERTY OR
PERSONAL PROPERTY AT SCHOOLS
No person may steal, deface, or destroy another person’s property during school or going to or from school, school sponsored or
authorized activities, functions, or events.
This behavior shall not be tolerated and will
be subject to, but not limited to ISS, OS, and/
or restitution. The SRO will also be notified.
Every effort will be made to work with parents
to have those responsible make restitution to
the school or person either in cash payment
to the district treasurer or person, or by work
arrangements with the site principal. (OK ss
10)(Section 1037—School Laws of Oklahoma)
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DANGEROUS WEAPONS POLICY
The policy of Alva Independent School District I-001 toward dangerous weapons is a “zero tolerance” posture, which absolutely prohibits the use and/or possession of dangerous weapons
on school premises or at school functions. This policy on dangerous weapons is applicable to all
students without regard to age or grade. For the definition/consequences of dangerous weapons, refer to the following list:
*Guns or Devices capable of discharging or throwing projectiles— The term as defined
in this policy shall include but not be limited to (1) rifles, pistols, or shotguns of any caliber and/
or: (2) BB guns or air pistols, and/or (3) potato throwers, paint ball guns, dart guns or blow
guns, and/or (4) any other device the purpose of which is to throw, discharge, and/or fire objects, bullets or shells. **The use, display or possession of any kind of gun, weapon or
device capable of discharging or throwing projectiles, whether loaded or unloaded,
on the campus, parking lots, premises or property of Alva Schools or during school
sponsored activities, functions, or events shall result in the immediate expulsion of
all students involved for a period of time which shall be not less than one calendar
year.** However, the superintendent or designee may modify the expulsion requirement on a
case-by-case basis for clearly extenuating circumstances. Any student who aids, knowingly accompanies, assists, or participates with another student who uses, displays, or possesses a gun
or device capable of discharging or throwing projectiles in violation of this policy, shall also be
subject to expulsion for not less than one calendar year.
Facsimile of a gun—Any student who has a facsimile of a gun including a cap, toy, or
water gun or any other item resembling a gun in his/her possession at school or any school
sponsored activity will be disciplined as follows: (1) Parent/guardian/custodian will be notified;
(2) the student shall be suspended; and (3) if harm or a threat should occur, the student will be
dealt with the same as having a gun.
Knives, weapons, or other dangerous devices—The term “knife, weapon, or device” shall include, but not limited to, (1) knives of all types and sizes; (2) brass knuckles,
chains, clubs, and sharp instruments; (3) explosives, bombs, combustible fluids or materials,
fireworks, incendiary devices, poisons, chemicals, or spray paint; and/or (4) knives, weapons or
devices, the use, threat or purpose of which is to cause personal injury or property damage.
1. The use, display or possession of ANY kind of knife, weapon or device capable of stabbing, cutting, injuring, maiming or disfiguring other persons OR damaging property, on the campus,
parking lots, premises or property of Alva Schools or during school sponsored activities, function or
events may result in the following disciplinary action against all students involved, AND
2. Any student who aids, knowingly accompanies, assists or participates with another
student who uses, displays or possesses a knife, weapon or device capable of causing personal
injury or property damage in violation of this policy, shall also be subject to the same disciplinary action as the student who actually uses, displays, or possess or threaten to use such,
knife, weapon or device
44
DANGEROUS WEAPONS POLICY (Cont.)
3. For students identified under (1) and (2) above, the following disciplinary actions are
to result for all students involved:
*Warning: A warning will be given when the knife, weapon or device—(a) has not been
displayed or used in a threatening manner and; (b) has not caused any harm, injury, destruction or damage, and; © is a knife or device commonly used or carried by persons for use other
than as a weapon; and (d) no verbal threats to use such knife, weapon or device in an inappropriate manner have preceded the possession; and e.) the student has no prior school disciplinary record of violence, aggression, injury, damage, or threats. The parents will be notified and
the knife will be returned only to the parent.
*In School Suspension: In School Suspension for ten (10) school days shall occur under
any of the following conditions: (a) if the student has previously been warned not to bring such
knife, weapon or device on school property or to the school events; or (b) when the knife,
weapon or device is one not commonly carried and is used, intended or designed for the purpose of causing physical injury or property damage; or © when the particular circumstances
surrounding the possession posed a danger to persons or property. The knife, weapon or device will be turned over to the SRO.
*Expulsion: Expulsion for not less than one semester shall occur under any of the following conditions: (a) when the knife, weapon or device was used or displayed in a threatening
manner; or (b) when the knife, weapon or device has caused harm, injury, detraction or damage to persons or property; or © when the student involved has threatened any other person
with harm or physical injury with a knife, weapon or device; or (d) the student has a prior
school disciplinary record of violence, aggression, injury, damage or threats. The knife, weapon
or device will be turned over to the SRO.
Any custodial parent or guardian of a child under eighteen (18) years of age whose child commits the crime of possession of a firearm on school property may be fined not exceeding two
hundred dollars ($200), or ordered to perform community service not exceeding forty (40)
hours or both fine and community service. To satisfy any community service requirement, the
court may give preference to work which benefits the school said child attends. Said penalty
shall be an administrative penalty and shall not be recorded on the custodial parent’s or guardian’s criminal record. The fine shall be payable to the court clerk to be deposited in the court
fund. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the filing or prosecution of any criminal charge. (21858) Sec. 488.2 Oklahoma School Law.
45
ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS
To gain admission to Alva Independent Schools, a student must be a legal resident of the district or a
legal transfer. The student must be residing with the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian and be willing
to abide by the rules and guidelines of the school as maintained by the Alva Board of Education. A birth
certificate and record of immunization is required for each student entering school. The minimum chronological age for children starting the four-year-old program is four years of age on or before September
1st of that year and students starting kindergarten must be five years of age on or before September
1st of that year.
Any student entering from home or private school will be tested by the counselor to determine proper
grade placement. An entering student must score a passing grade (60%) on at least three of the five
core curriculum tests in order to be placed in the next higher grade.
GUIDANCE
FUND RAISING
EVENTS
The Board of Education is
charged by law to approve all
fund raising efforts by school
groups.
Services include personal, academic, career counseling, scholarship and financial aid information.
Counselors work with students, parents, and teachers
to help solve school-related problems.
The staff includes three full time counselors, one at
the high, one at the middle school, and one for the
three elementary schools.
Parent-teacher conferences may be set up through a
student’s counselor.
The goal of the guidance staff is to best meet the student’s needs.
For assistance call 327-4823
HEALTH SERVICES
Students’ health problems will be handled through the students’
teachers and the office. Each student must have an emergency number on file in the office. Parents should counsel with school officials
about individual problems.
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IMMUNIZATIONS
Overview of immunization requirements:
You may contact the Woods County Health Department
or personal health provider for the immunizations required. The vaccinations are given at the health department free of charge. The Oklahoma State Department
of Education Certificate of Exemption must be completed for exemptions due to medical, religious, or personal
reasons your child cannot take the required vaccinations.
Please send a copy of his/her immunization record to the
school office. (70 O.S. 1-116.2)
MEDICATION
Parents must sign a release form for school officials to dispense any type of medication to students. All
medications (prescription and non-prescription) will be kept in the school office. (70 O.S. 1-116.2) Prescription medications must be in the original pharmacy container and properly labeled by a pharmacist
with the following:\
1. Name of student
2. Current date
3. Name of drug
4. Dosage
5. Time to be administered
6. Physician’s name
7. Pharmacy name and telephone number
8. Whether the child has asthma or other disabilities which may require immediate dispensation of medicine.
9. A student who is permitted to self-administer asthma medication pursuant to the policy for selfadministration of asthma medication, shall be permitted to possess and use a prescribed inhaler at all
times. Non-prescription medication must be presented to the office in the original container with proper company label and contain the name of the medication and directions for administering. ALL MEDICATIONS MUST BE REGISTERED, (70 O.S. 1-116.2)
47
LOCKERS/DESKS
Lockers/desks will be assigned at the beginning of school. Students will be expected to use the
lockers/desks assigned to them and to keep them neat and clean at all times. DO NOT STORE
FOOD, DRINK, OR GYM CLOTHES IN HALL LOCKERS. The use od tape and/or stickers are not allowed on lockers/desks. At AMS personal locks may be brought from home to secure assigned
lockers. A second key or combination will be provided and must be made available in the school
office prior to securing a school locker. Students leave articles of value in lockers/desks at their
own risk. Students are responsible for anything found in or stolen from their lockers/desks. Lockers and desks are the property of the school and are assigned to the students for their personal
use. Students hold no expectation of privacy in their lockers/desks or any other school property.
School officials have the authority to search all school property (including lockers) at any time
without notice and to seize any property by law or school policy.
INSURANCE
Alva Independent School District
does not furnish insurance to cover accidents students might incur
while attending school, school
functions, and during practice or
athletic competition. Insuring the
student is the parent’s responsibility. Insurance forms are available
in the school office at the beginning of school.
MEDIA CENTER
Library procedures and policy are under the direction of the library/assistant. Fees or fines
will be assessed for damaged, lost and overdue books and materials. Students may be liable for destroying or failure to return library materials.
48
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent/Teacher conferences will be held at the middle of the first and third nineweeks periods. Parents are encouraged to contact the school at any time if they
have any questions or concerns.
MINUTE OF SILENCE LAW
SENATE BILL 815
SAFE CALL
This law requires all school sites within
the district to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and to observe approximately
one minute of silence each day. The Alva
Board of Education requires that the
staff in charge of daily announcements
read the following: As we begin (or end)
another day, let us pause for a moment
of silence to reflect, meditate, pray, or
engage in other silent activity.”
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Safe call is a tollfree anonymous
hotline number.
The call is free
and one’s name is
never asked.
1-877-SAFECALL
Ext OK1
1-877-723-3225
Ext 651
Students with disabilities who are residents of Oklahoma have available to them a free and
appropriate public education as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA), P.L. 101-475. Schools have a comprehensive child identification district plan to
identify, locate, and evaluate those children with disabilities, birth through 21 years of age,
who are in need of special education and related services.
49
VISITORS
All visitors are asked to report to the office upon arrival at school. Visitors will sign the visitors’ log and be given a visitor’s badge to wear as identification. If, in the judgment of the
principal, the visitation is inappropriate, the visitor(s) will be asked to leave. Student visitors or younger relatives will not be permitted at any time. One day advance notice will be
required for parents wishing to eat lunch at school. Visitors are not to loiter on school
grounds. Visitors may be denied permission to visit school property for specific reasons as
determined by the principal.
TELEPHONE
USE AT SCHOOL
TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are furnished by the state or
school district. All students are responsible for damage or loss of books. Students will be expected to pay for the
damage that is done to books outside of
normal wear and tear.
Students may only use
the telephone with the
permission of the principal or designee for necessary, school-related business. Phone messages will
be delivered to students
and teachers during the
last ten minutes of class.
WITHDRAWAL (moving) FROM SCHOOL
In order to insure proper handling of school records and to facilitate entrance into another
school, a student wishing to withdraw from school shall:
1. Have a parent come to the office
2. Obtain a withdrawal notice from the office as early as possible on the day he/she
check’s out of school
3. Have the withdrawal notice properly endorsed by teachers for all class periods, the librarian, the secretary, counselor, and the principal.
4. Secure grades from teachers.
5. Bring the checkout sheet to the office by 3:00 pm.
6. The student should have in his/her possession the following items before leaving
school: report cards, P.E. equipment and other personal belongings, health record, and
the signed withdrawal notice from the office.
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Equipment and Facilities
1. In most sports coaches will expect students to purchase individual items for
each sport which will consist mainly of daily practice equipment. In such cases
the coach will order the pack to insure uniformity and then the students purchase
these items at school price.
2. Students are responsible for all school equipment that is checked out to them
and will need to pay for lost equipment or equipment that is damaged beyond the
extent of “normal wear and tear”.
3. In most of our sports, parents or students may be expected to take care of
washing and cleaning of athletic clothing. Coaches will instruct students as to
whose responsibility this will be and emphasize the proper care of uniforms.
4. It is the athlete’s responsibility to “daily” take home practice clothing to be
cleaned. Personal hygiene is of the utmost importance.
5. Athletes should keep their locker area clean. Clothing and equipment should
always be put in lockers when possible and the lockers should be locked. The
school will not be responsible for lost or stolen items. Take pride in keeping your
locker rooms and other facilities neat and clean.
6. Weight room: Athletes are not permitted to workout in the weight room unless
supervised by a staff member. Everyone has a responsibility to practice good hygiene in the weight room. Shirts must be worn when using equipment and benches should be wiped regularly. All weight should be properly racked or put in its
proper place after use.
Team Travel
Team members will travel to and from athletic contests on school provided transportation. Athletes may return with their parents if the parents make arrangements with the coach. A signed note from parent must be given to the coach.
Students will only be allowed to leave when a parent has contacted the coach in
person following the event. Athletes should keep the bus as clean as possible.
Coaches will expect them to pick up around their seats, close windows, and help
sweep bus and throw away trash as necessary. Athletes should pick up around
dressing rooms, bleachers, showers, or other team areas before leaving the opponent’s facility. There should be an effort to leave the team area better than you
originally found it.
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APPROPRIATE CONCERNS TO DISCUSS WITH
COACH:
1. The coach's interaction with your child
2. Any concerns about your child's interaction with others
3. Ways to help your child improve athletically
The primary role of every coach is that of an educator. As
a parent it is sometimes difficult to accept that your child
is not playing as much as you wish. Coaches make decisions on what is in the best interest of all student-athletes
in their programs. Certain concerns such as those previously listed are appropriate to discuss with your child's
coach.
Other areas, such as those listed below, must be left
to the discretion of the coach.
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


Team strategy
COMMUNICATION
Parent & Coach Relationship: Children are best served in
their athletic experiences by understanding and respecting the position of both coaches and parents. Clear communication between athletes, coaches and parents is an
important element in any athletic program.
COMMUNICATION FROM THE COACH:

Expectations that the coach has for the team and
your child for the season


Team Selection Process


Times and locations of practices and games


Concerns expressed directly to the coach
Team Rules and guidelines and consequences for
infractions
Injury procedures
Lettering and awards policies for athletics
COMMUNICATIONS FROM PARENTS:
Playing time
Play calling
Other student athletes
Notification of any injury or illness in a timely manner
Notification of any scheduling conflicts well in advance
As a student athlete your child may experience some of
the most rewarding moments of his/her life. It is also
important to understand that things may not always go
as your child expects. At these times discussion with the
coach by the student athlete is encouraged. This is
an important first step to a mutual understanding.
Conferences are generally best resolved at the lowest level, between the player and the coach. Such
conferences are encouraged. When a parent-coach conference is necessary, please follow the procedure outlined
below.
WHEN YOU HAVE A CONCERN TO DISCUSS WITH A
COACH - PLEASE USE THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE:
1. If the coach-athlete conference does not resolve the
situation, please call the main number at the school and
ask for the coach's extension. You may also access their
email through the district web site or get it from the front office. Please only use email to set up the conference
and not in place of the conference.
2. Request a time to meet with the coach.
3. If the coach cannot be reached, call the Athletic Director and request that a meeting be arranged between
the parent and coach.
4. Please do not attempt to meet with a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be
emotional times for the parent, athlete, and the coach. Meetings of this nature usually do not promote positive
relations. (Please do not call the members of the school board as you will be re-directed to the above process.)
PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT:
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

Be realistic about your child's athletic ability.


Be a positive role model
Help your child set realistic goals
Be an encourager at home and in the stands by emphasizing "improved performance”, not winning
Don’t relive your own athletic past through your child
Control your emotions at games and events
Respect your child's coaches, communicate with them in a positive way and encourage others to do the
same.
Cheer for our team. Do not yell at officials or the other teams players. You can be removed and banned
from attending games.
Be responsible, sensible, and keep your priorities in order. Much more is at stake than a win or loss.
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NCAA College Preparation
The following is a summary by grade for athletes who are interested in competing at. NCAA Division I and II schools. There are two important links that anyone can access over the internet:
www.ncaa.org and www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. It is highly recommended to go to the above
links and take some time to look through the sites. Students and their parents can download the
“Guide for the College-Bound Student Athlete”. This guide is very thorough and will help high
school athletes prepare for meeting the requirements to play at NCAA Division I and II schools.
Also included within this guide are worksheets that will help you compute and plan your high
school schedule to meet the core requirements to play in the NCAA. Middle School: It is important to note that any class taken at the middle school for high school credit “WILL NOT” be
counted towards meeting NCAA eligibility requirements.
9th – 11th grades: This is where the worksheets for Division I and Division II come into importance. The most important thing to do your freshman year is to begin a course of study that
will enable you to meet the NCAA core requirements. This can be determined by completing the
worksheets described above. Two other important things to keep in mind are your GPA and planning on when you will take the ACT and /or SAT tests, as these are all important components in
determining eligibility for the NCAA. “You should also go online and find out which courses at our
high school are considered as core courses for eligibility.”
11th grade: After the completion of your junior year, go online and register with the NCAA clearinghouse at the site listed above. Student athletes will be assigned a PIN number once you have
registered and the school will be asked to send official transcripts at different times so they can
determine if you are on course for qualifying.
12th grade: Make sure that you have registered with the clearinghouse as mentioned above and
send in your transcripts as requested. Keep tracking your core course requirements, GPA, and
make sure your ACT or SAT score is in the acceptable range by taking it as many times as needed.
RULES
It is important that every athlete and parent understand that athletics falls under
the umbrella of the Alva Public Schools District and the rules of the Oklahoma
Secondary Schools Activities Association. School rules that are in the student
handbook will apply to athletics as well. In that participation in athletics is a
“privilege” and not a right and is not required for graduation, coaches and/or the
athletic director and principal may find it necessary to remove students from the
athletic program if there are disciplinary violations that warrant such removal.
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Policy Statement: The school district of Alva does not discriminate against pupils
on the basis of sex, race, national origin, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation,
or physical, mental emotional, or learning disability or handicap in its education programs or activities.
Federal law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex or
handicap.
FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974
(Annual Notice to Parents & Eligible Students of Alva Public Schools
is included in this handbook.)
In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA),
Alva Public Schools affirms the following rights:
1. The right of a students parents and eligible student to inspect and review the student’s
education records
2. The rights of Alva Public Schools to limit the disclosure of information contained in a
student’s education records except:
A. By the prior written consent of the student’s parents or eligible student
B. As directory information
C. Under certain limited circumstances, as permitted by the FERPA.
3. The rights of a student’s parents or an eligible student to seek to correct parts of the
student’s education record which he/she believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of student rights The rights include the right to a hearing to present evidence that the
record should be changed if the district decided not to alter it according to the parent or
eligible student’s request.
4. The right of any person to file a complaint with the Department of Education if Alva
Public Schools violates the FERPA.
5. The right of a student’s parent (s) or an eligible student to obtain copies of this policy
and procedures at no expense by requesting this policy from the Alva Public School
Board Office at 1023 Main.
The district will arrange to provide translations of this notice to non-English speaking parents in their native languages. All rights and protections given parents under FERPA and
this policy transfer to the student when he/she reaches age 18 or enrolls in postsecondary school.
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FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974
(ANNUAL NOTICE TO PARENTS REGARDING CHILD IDENTIFICATION, LOCATION, SCREENING AND EVALUATION)
This notice is to inform parents of the child identification, location,
screening, and evaluation activities to be conducted throughout the
year by the Alva Public School District in coordination with Oklahoma
State Department of Education. Education records shall be collected
and maintained for each student within the district.
Part of the education record, know as directory information, includes
information in the education record which would not generally be
considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. It includes,
but is not limited to the 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.
Directory information, as defined above, may be designated and
disclosed by the Alva Public School District under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Parents must contact the
student’s site administrator, c/o Alva Public Schools, 418 Flynn St.,
Alva, Oklahoma 73717, no later than August 14, 2014, if they do not
wish to have directory information disclosed.
Personally identifiable information, also considered as part of the
educational record, shall be collected and maintained in a confidential
manner. Alva Public Schools will do so by carrying out the following
activities:
Referral
Preschool children ages 3 through 5 and students enrolled K-12 who
are suspected of having disabilities which may require special and
related services, may be referred for screening and evaluation
through the local schools. The Alva Public School District and the
Cooperative Education Cooperative (CEP) will coordinate with the
Sooner Start Early Intervention Program in referrals for identification
and evaluation of infants and toddlers who may be eligible for early
intervention services from birth through 2 years of age or for special
education and related services beginning at age 3 years of age. The
Oklahoma Area-wide Service Information System (OASIS), through a
toll free number (1-800-42-OASIS), also provides statewide information and referrals to local schools and other service providers
OASIS), also provides statewide information and referrals to local
schools and other service providers.
Screening
Screening activities may include vision, hearing, and health. Other
screening activities may include: review of records and educational
history, interviews, observation, and specially developed readiness or
education screening instruments.
Readiness Screening
Personally identifiable information is collected on all kindergarten and
first grade students’ participation in school-wide readiness screening
to assess readiness for kindergarten and first grade entry. Results of
the screening are made available to parents or legal guardians,
teachers and school administrator. No child shall be educationally
screened for readiness or evaluated without notice to the child’s parent or guardian.
Educational Screening
Educational screening includes procedures for the identification of
children who may be eligible for special education and related services. Each school district in the State provides educational screening. No child shall be educationally screened whose parent or legal
guardian has filed written objection with the local school district.
·
Educational screening is implemented for all first grade
students each school year.
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·
Second through twelfth grade students shall be screened
as needed or upon request of the parent, legal guardian,
or teacher.
Students entering the public school system from another state or
from within the state without previous educational screening, shall
be educationally screened within 6 months from the date of such
entry
Evaluation
Evaluation means procedures used in accordance with Federal laws
and regulations to determine whether a child has a disability and the
nature and extent of the special education and related services that
the child needs. The term means procedures used selectively with
an individual child and does not include basics tests administered or
procedures used with all children in a school, grade, or class. Written consent of the parent or legal guardian for such evaluation must
be on file with the local school district prior to any child receiving an
initial evaluation for special education and related services purposes.
Collection of Personally Identifiable Information
Educational records containing personally identifiable information
collected by schools in the identification, location, screening, and
evaluation of children shall be maintained in accordance with Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Acts (FERPA) and the Policies and
Procedures for Special Education in Oklahoma. School districts
develop and implement a local policy regarding the collection, storage, disclosure, and destruction of confidential student records.
Parents may obtain a copy of the local policy from the local district’s
administrator.
Notification of Rights Under FERPA for Elementary and Secondary Institutions
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords
parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:
§
The right to inspect and review the student’s education
records within 45 days of the day Alva Public School
District receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or
appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record
(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for
access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place
where the records may be inspected
 The right to request the amendment of the student’s
education records that the parent or eligible student
believes are inaccurate or misleading.
 Parents or eligible student may ask the district to amend
a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They
should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the
record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or
misleading.
 If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the
parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of
their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.
Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be
provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the
right to a hearing.
 The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records,
except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without
consent.
 One exception, which permits disclosure without consent,
is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational
interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an
administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including
health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person
serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district
has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor,
medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an
official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or
assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
 A school official has a legitimate education interest if the official
needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
 Upon request, the Alva Public School district discloses education
records without consent to officials of another school district in which a
student seeks or intends to enroll. (NOTE: FERPA requires a school
district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or student of
the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request).
 The right to file a complaint with United States Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers
FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
United States Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
To obtain a copy of the FERPA policy adopted by the Alva Public School
District, a request needs to be made to the local school administrator.
Before any major identification, location, or evaluation, this notice shall be
provided to parents.
Accommodations for other languages or means of communications may be
provided also upon request.
Such notice shall occur at least annually prior to conducting these activities
and shall include the rights of parents under FERPA.
For further information for patrons of Alva Public School District, please contact:
Alicia Harding, Special Education Director
AlvaPublic Schools
418 Flynn St
Alva, Oklahoma 73717
Phone: (580) 327-4823
Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:
 Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program
of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)– Political affiliations or beliefs
of the student or student’s parent;
1. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
2. Sex behavior or attitudes;
3. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
4. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family
relationships;
5. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or
6. ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; o
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
 Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –
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1.
2.
Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as
a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent,
and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a
student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any
physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law;
and
3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise
distribute the information to others.
Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –
1. Protected information surveys of students;
2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any
of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.
These rights transfer to from the parents to a student who is 18 years
old or an emancipated minor under State law.
Alva Public School District has and will continue to develop and adopt
policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as
arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected
information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. Alva Public
Schools will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the
start of each school year and after any substantive changes. Alva Public
Schools will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents
of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or
surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt
his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. Alva
Public Schools will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the
school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of
the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled
after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification
of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will
also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following
is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:




Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for
marketing, sales or other distribution.
Administration of any protected information survey not
funded in whole or in part by ED.
Administration of any protected information survey not
funded in whole or in part by ED.
Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or
screening as described above.
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901
AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES
ACT PROCEDURES
The compliance officer or designee will investigate the
grievance. The investigation shall consist of a review of
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 2008 secures the documents, interviews with appropriate individuals and
right of individuals to file a complaint with a school district other action consistent with the nature and scope of the
or other public entity in any instance in which the individu- grievance.
al believes that a violation of the ADA requirements related to public entities has occurred. Employees who be- The investigation must be completed within 30 days of the
lieve a violation of ADA’s requirement, related to the Dis- level one submission of the grievance. In the event the
trict, has occurred with respect to the employee’s employ- grievant submits additional information pursuant to the
ment may utilize the acceptable employee grievance pro- request of the compliance officer, the report shall be due
cedure. Employees who believe that a violation has oc- within 30 days of the submission of the additional inforcurred but it does not involve the employee’s employment mation. The compliance officer’s report shall state the
may utilize this grievance procedure to secure a review of grievance, the scope of the investigation, findings related
a claim, cause or concern arising under the ADA.
to the grievance, and a recommended disposition. A copy
of the grievance decision shall be given to the grievant
The district’s ADA compliance officer or designee shall and the Superintendent.
provide, upon request, a grievance form. The form shall
include the person’s name, address, and explanation of Level Four: The grievant shall have 10 calendar days
the grievance, and reference to facts, documents, wit- from the receipt of the compliance officer’s report to apnesses or other proof or support for the claim.
peal the recommendation or findings made to the Superintendent. The Superintendent or designee shall schedule
Additionally, each person filing a grievance shall state the a meeting to consider the report and recommendation of
relief requested and any recommendation for addressing, the compliance officer and the objection of the grievant.
correcting, or other wise adjusting the perceived problem, Following this meeting the Superintendent or designee
concern or complaint. All grievances shall be confidential may request additional investigation by the compliance
and without retaliation to the grievant.
officer, enter the Superintendent’s own findings, adopt the
relief requested by the grievant or take other action
Level One: If the grievance is directed toward a teacher, deemed necessary to achieve a reasonable resolution of
the grievant will schedule an appointment to visit with the the grievance. The decision of the Superintendent shall
teacher within 5 days of the incident.
be final. The Superintendent’s decision shall be rendered
within 15 days from any meeting scheduled to discuss
Level Two: After this initial meeting, if the grievance is and consider the grievance.
not settled, the parent should discuss the grievance with
the principal within 5 days of the initial meeting.
Level Three: If the grievance is not settled at level 2, the
grievance will be immediately reviewed by the District’s
ADA compliance officer. The compliance officer will determine whether the grievant has supplied the information
necessary to permit reasonable investigation of the claim
or charge. If an insufficient statement of the grievance is
submitted or if additional information is desirable, the
compliance officer will inform the grievant. The grievant
will have 10 calendar days to supply the necessary information. In the absence of supplemental information the
compliance officer will proceed with the investigation of
the claim.
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AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES ACT GRIEVANCE FORM
1. Name and Address of Charging Party:
2. Date:
Phone numbers where I may be reached:
Home
Office
Cell
4. Statement of Grievance (please provide as detailed a statement as possible and feel free to
attach supplemental pages if necessary for a complete understanding of your concerns):
5. Please identify any documents or other materials which support your grievance. If
documents or materials are in your possession, please attach copies to this grievance form:
6. Please identify what action or relief you are seeking as a result of the grievance:
_________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Grievant
IF, AS A RESULT OF A DISABILITY, YOU NEED ASSISTANCE IN COMPLETING THIS
FORM, PLEASE CONTACT THE ADA COMPLIANCE OFFICER FOR ASSISTANCE OR
ACCOMMADATION.
ADA Compliance Officer
Alva Public Schools
418 Flynn St
Alva OK 73717
(580) 327-4823
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Alva Public School District Grievance Procedure
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE:
The Alva School District recognizes that parents and other school patrons have a
fundamental right to discuss grievances that they might have with the district. However,
it is also recognized that there must be an orderly procedure for carrying out the grievances.
Level One:
If the grievance is directed toward a teacher the parent should make an appointment to visit with the teacher.
Level Two:
After this initial meeting, if the grievance is not settled, the parent should discuss the problem with the
principal.
Level Three:
If the issue is not resolved, an appointment should be made with the superintendent or his/her designee.
Level Four:
After exhausting all of these available channels, the parents may appeal to the board of education following board policy. The board’s action shall be a final determination of the grievance.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR FEDERAL FUNDED PROGRAMS
The Alva School District recognizes that parents and other school patrons have a
fundamental right to discuss grievances that they might have with the district. However,
it is also recognized that there must be an orderly procedure for carrying out the grievances.
Level One:
If the grievance is directed toward a teacher the parent should make an appointment to visit with the teacher.
Level Two:
After this initial meeting, if the grievance is not settled, the parent should discuss the problem with the
principal.
Level Three:
If the issue is not resolved, an appointment should be made with the superintendent or his/her designee.
Level Four:
After exhausting all of these available channels, the parents may appeal to the board of education following board policy.
Level Five:
If the issue is not resolved, the party with the grievance can contact the Oklahoma State
Department of Education.
ASBESTOS INSPECTION: In accor dance with feder al law, Alva High School, Alva Middle School, Longfellow, Washington, and Lincoln Elementaries, were inspected for the presence of asbestos containing material during May 2006. Periodic surveillance inspections are performed semi-annually with formal re-inspection conducted every 3 years.

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
Asbestos containing materials are divided into two categories, friable and non-friable.
Friable materials are those that can be crumbled by hand pressure, and therefore have a potential to release airborne
fibers if the material is damaged or disturbed. .
Non-friable materials are hard, and therefore are incapable of releasing asbestos fibers, unless the materials are
crushed, pulverized, abraded, or machined in some way. .
The complete inspection report and asbestos management plan is available for review during normal business hours in the
school administration office. If you have any questions on the asbestos inspections of the school, please contact Steve
Parkhurst, Superintendent at 418 Flynn St., 327-4823.
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60
ALVA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STUDENT AGREEMENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR THE USE OF
THE INTERNET AND OTHER COMPUTERIZED RESOURCES
Student Name (Please Print) ____________________________Grade_______
I have read and understand the Alva Public Schools District’s Acceptable Use
Policy. I agree to follow the rules contained, my account can be terminated and I
may face other disciplinary measures, consistent with the present handbook policies.
Student Signature _____________________________________Date_________
Parent or Guardian: I have r ead and under stand the Alva Public School
District’s Acceptable Use Policy. I hereby release the district, its personnel, and
any institutions with which it is affiliated from any and all claims and damages of
any nature arising from my child’s use of, or inability to use, the Alva Public
School District’s Internet access system, LAN/WAN, and other computerized resources. This includes but is not limited to claims that may arise from the unauthorized use of the Internet to purchase products or services.
I will instruct my child regarding any restrictions against accessing material that
are in addition to the restrictions set forth in the Alva Public Schools District’s
Acceptable Use Policy. I will emphasize to my child the importance of following
the rules for personal safety as listed in the Acceptable Use Policy.
I give permission to issue an account for my child and certify that the information
contained in this form is correct.
Parent or Guardian name: (please print)_______________________________
Parent or Guardian Signature: _______________________________________
Home Address: ____________________________ Phone:_______________
This agreement must be returned to the Alva Public Schools where it will be kept
on file.
Alva Public Schools board of Education Addendum: “No student will be allowed access to any
workstation on the network which does not have blocking software installed.”
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STUDENT HANDBOOK CHECKOUT SHEET
Each student in Alva Middle School has received a copy of the Student Handbook. The
Handbook provides him/her a copy of the school’s procedures and regulations. The student’s signature below indicates that he/she has received a copy and understands that he/
she is responsible for abiding by the policies, procedures, and regulations therein.
__________
Date
Grade (circle one)
______________________________
Student’s Signature
6
7
8
Parent or Guardian: I have read and understand the Alva Middle School Handbook and
agree that my child will observe and abide by the policies, procedures, and regulations
therein.
__________
Date
______________________________
Parent’s Signature
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