Memorial Hall School
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2017 - 2018
STUDENT HANDBOOK
If you want information about any phase of the school, please READ YOUR
HANDBOOK or ask your homeroom teacher for assistance.
GOALS
Memorial Hall School offers students an opportunity to assume responsibility for
themselves and in providing programs in which they may develop intellectually,
creatively, physically, emotionally, and morally. In order to achieve this at an
academic level, students are given the opportunity to work in a small classroom
setting with individualized programs tailored to meet their needs.
STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES AND ATTITUDES
The administrative staff is working to provide a sound, consistent and pleasurable
environment. Memorial Hall School was founded to provide opportunities for students
and staff to grow as we learn together.
The school is indeed an exciting and rare experience in the fact that there exists
genuine concern for every individual involved in the program, our staff and students
not collectively in numbers, but dealing strictly on an individual basis. Focus is on
discovering abilities and learning methods to enhance and develop thinking and
reasoning skills.
STUDENT CONDUCT
Each student has the responsibility to handle herself/himself as a young adult and
conduct herself/himself in a like manner. Respect for self and others are of utmost
value. The staff is here to provide a positive opportunity for an excellent educational
environment.
Students, who are negative, show no initiative or who display immaturity or lack of
judgment concerning infractions of school policies and procedures should look for
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school placement other than Memorial Hall. Each student is held responsible for
herself/himself and her/his actions.
It is the policy of Memorial Hall that students refrain from playful, sexual, or
malicious physical contact. This policy should help to prevent misunderstandings that
could erupt into more
serious situations.
OFF-CAMPUS BEHAVIOR
Students must realize that their behavior off campus reflects on the image of the
school. If a student’s actions are detrimental to the reputation of Memorial Hall School or
the Memorial Hall School community a student may be asked to withdraw from the
school.
HOMEROOM
Throughout each grade level, each student is assigned a homeroom group and
identifies particularly with his/her homeroom teacher. In addition, the staff at each
grade level works as a team, which is responsive to each student’s needs. The
homeroom group serves as a means for discussion of school rules and routines, and it
helps in many ways to promote positive associations within the class.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
If you think that school might be closed due to inclement weather… Tune in to the
radio station: AM-740 KTRH or on TV: Channel 13 news.
Memorial Hall will follow the decision made by Houston Independent School District as
whether to close or not. Please be alerted to the television stations reporting school
closings.
In the event dangerous weather conditions occur while school is in session, parents
will be contacted and students will be dismissed early.
For those families who have provided email addresses, please check for emails.
•
Please keep the school office updated with current email address and
contact numbers. Emails will also be sent regarding school delays/closings,
etc. …
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STUDENT APPEARANCE/ DRESS AND HAIR CODE
Please refer to the Official Uniform List for more specific information.
Students will be expected to keep themselves well-groomed and neatly dressed in
proper uniform every day. Uniforms may be purchased at Parker School Uniform
Supply. Time will be allotted for new students to obtain uniforms, and students are
expected to dress appropriately while waiting for their uniforms to arrive. No jeans,
T-shirts or inappropriate shoes are to be worn. Refer to the uniform list from Parker
Uniform or our school website.
If uniforms are purchased elsewhere, please be sure the item color matches those
from Parker Uniforms. Name brand logos apparent on clothing are NOT acceptable.
Students are to arrive to school in proper uniform ready to work each day.
Girls may wear solid white tennis shoes or enclosed, low heel or flat dress shoes. No
sandals or open-toe shoes. Boots may be worn in the winter.
Boys may wear black or white tennis shoes or black or brown loafers. Colorful and
neon colors are not acceptable
Boys are to be cleanly shaven and have haircuts that are not distracting to
students or faculty (above ears and over collar). Girls are expected to have
hairstyles that are appropriate and refrain from long distractible earrings. No
earrings should be larger than a quarter. Earrings are to be limited to girls only
and no more than two earrings are to be worn in each ear.
Any form of dress or hairstyle which is a distraction or disruptive in appearance and
detrimental to the purpose or conduct of the school will not be permitted. No
“Frohawks”/Mohawks, excessive spiking, or unnatural colors (pink, red purple etc.)
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will be tolerated. An infraction warrants student to be dismissed with zeros in classes
and is not to return till corrected. Students will be sent home immediately until
appropriately groomed.
Boys are to wear belts and socks. Girls are to have blouses tucked inside skirts or
slacks at all times.
Memorial Hall School Dress Code provides a variance in uniform style Monday through
Thursday. Please refer to your Uniform List for information.
Jackets, coats or hoodies are not to be worn in the school building. Unofficial
coats and jackets must be in lockers. Hoods are not to be worn on your head at
anytime in the building. Sweaters are available for purchase at Parker and
Memorial Hall School sweatshirts are available for purchase in the school office.
Seniors are offered to purchase “Senior” articles of clothing, which will be
considered Memorial Hall uniforms. Memorial Hall “Sweatshirts and T-shirts”
clothing is also available for purchase and considered uniform.
Appearance is a direct reflection of the student’s attitude. Students that are not
capable of adhering to the dress code will be subject to disciplinary action. Both
conduct and academic grades will be lowered accordingly.
ATTENDANCE
The Texas Education Code provides for compulsory attendance. Regular and punctual
attendance is of upmost importance for success. Late arrival/enrollment during any
semester constitutes as absences.
Students who arrive late in the semester will be required to make up all hours
missed. They will have the opportunity to make these hours up during the summer
school program.
No credit for these courses will be given until make up hours are completed.
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A student may not be given credit for a course if the student has more than six (6)
days of absences during a semester. Students absent for more than six (6) days for
any reason may be referred to the administrative offices.
Excused Absences constitute:
1. Personal illness (the school may require a doctor’s certificate if it is deemed
advisable.)
2. Illness in the family
3. Death of a relative
4. Observance of a religious holiday
5. Any other excused reason should be arranged through the school administrative
office prior to the absence.
6. College Visits
Unexcused Absences- Schoolwork WILL be made up with no credit received and a zero
(0) in daily average applied.
Students are required to check into the office after returning from an absence, before
returning to class the next day. A teacher will only excuse an absence when
presented with an excused absence slip from the office.
Steps to follow when absent:
1. Have parent or guardian phone or email the school and inform the office of
your absence after 8:00 of the day absent.
2. Have parent or guardian write an excuse giving name, date, days of absence,
and reason for absence along with his/her signature on the day of return. If
seen by a physician a doctor’s note is required. Students are required to attend
a set number of days by the state of Texas.
3. Present your excuse to the school office upon returning. Excuse notes are not
accepted at the end of the grading period.
4. It is the student’s responsibility to ask all teachers for make up assignments;
complete them and turn them in. Assignments that are not made up will be
reflected on your grade.
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If absence is due to travel or any other reason, parents or guardians should notify the
school prior to the absences.
Make up classes (held in summer) will be assigned after six (6) excused absences.
There will be charges for these classes. Report cards and transcripts are held until
hours are made up and fees are paid.
TARDINESS
Tardiness will be dealt with at the discretion of the office staff. Three (3)
unexcused tardies equals one unexcused absence for the period. Promptness to class
is a necessity. Students are to be in their seats and ready to work when the bell
sounds.
Arriving twenty (20) minutes after class has commenced without an excuse
constitutes an unexcused absence for first period. When arriving late – students need
to sign in at the office and receive a tardy slip before going to class.
Tardiness is a disruption to the class and a hindrance for the child. Parents are urged
to comply and to have students on the premises ready for school before 8:15 a.m.
School hours are 8:15 a.m. – 3:55 p.m.
Excessive absences and tardies will be reviewed by the administration.
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DISCIPLINE
One of the most important lessons education should teach is self-discipline. While it
does not appear as a specific subject, it underlies the entire educational structure. It
is the training that develops self-control, character, orderliness and efficiency. It is
the key to good conduct, proper consideration for you and other people, and success.
With an understanding of the purpose of self-discipline in a school climate, you will be
able to form a good attitude- not only doing your part in making your school an
effective place for learning, but developing the habit of self-restraint, thus making
you a more productive person in society.
STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO SPEAK ENGLISH AT ALL TIMES. Students who continue
to speak another language will receive a reduction in their conduct and academic
grade. Habitual disregard to this rule will result in suspension from school.
STUDENTS HAVE COME TO AMERICA TO UNDERSTAND, UTILIZE AND ENJOY THE
ENGLISH LANGUAGE. WE REALIZE THIS IS A MOST COMMENDABLE DEVELOPMENT IN
ESTABLISHING RELATIONSHIPS AND PREPARING FOR COLLEGE.
It is essential for the student to speak English at ALL times during school to enable
them to be successful in their academic endeavors.
STUDENT AND PARENT PORTALS
Memorial Hall School offers student and parent portals on the Memorial Hall School
Website - www.memorialhall.org, look for “Student/Parent Portal”. Log on
information will be given to students at the beginning of the school year.
Our online service allows for students and parents to log on from anywhere at anytime
to view important information such as; class assignments, teacher remarks,
attendance, behavior, as well as grades. This a great feature for our families living
overseas to keep up with the student’s progress. Parents and students may also
contact teachers via the portal if needed.
SIX WEEK REPORT CARDS
Six week report cards will be available for view on the student/parent/guardian
portals that are accessible through Memorial Hall Schools website
www.memorialhall.org.
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Report cards will be posted every six weeks and are to be viewed via the portal. We
will also send them via E-mail.
If any problems arise during the six week period, the teachers will alert parents/
guardians via E-mail.
This is one more step in providing a continual, ongoing personal communication
between school and home.
CELLPHONES & ELECTRONICS
Students shall place cell phones in their lockers or in the designated basket placed
in each classroom during class time, turned off or on silent in the classroom. Cell
phones are not to be visible in the classroom. These may only be used at lunch
and before 8:15 am and after 3:55 pm. Any cell phones, electronic devices or
translators that are confiscated will have to be picked up by the student at the
end of the school day. Each time there will be a $20.00 fee to “buy back”
phones, IPods etc. After the third offense, a parent or guardian must pick up the
device from the office and there will be a $25.00 charge then and thereafter.
Policies and rules are made for the betterment of the students and their overall
school program. A student who is unable to commit her/ himself to the
responsibilities of the program need to seek schooling elsewhere.
COMPUTER/MUSIC LAB USAGE
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
To gain access to the technology resources, all students must obtain parental
permission as verified by the signatures on this agreement.
1. Students enrolled in computer classes will sign a contract before using the lab,
agreeing to accept financial responsibility and disciplinary consequences for any
negligence or misuse of the computers.
2. Students who are in the lab must be working, not visiting someone who is doing
work or just hanging around. Students may not eat or drink in computer lab.
3. Students may not be in the computer lab unless a faculty or staff member is
present at the same time.
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Memorial Hall School is committed to acquiring the best in rapidly changing
technology and utilizing the latest techniques and equipment in order to assure that
its students receive the greatest technological benefit in their education and acquire
the latest technical skills. This requires familiarization with current hardware and
software, training in their use and commitment to the legal and ethical
responsibilities involved in such use. This commitment to technological excellence
includes all members of Memorial Hall School and parents/guardians.
SCHOOL EQUIPMENT
Memorial Hall School has an extensive computer network which student’s use to send
local electronic mail, conduct research, and complete course work. Use of the
school’s equipment is considered a privilege, not a right. The student or his or her
parents/guardians must replace any equipment that is damaged or defaced by a
student.
INTERNET AND EMAIL
Internet access requires proper conduct of end users who must adhere to strict
guidelines. These guidelines are provided here to inform about the responsibilities. If
a user violates any of these provisions, his/her school network and/or Internet
account may be subject to restriction. Other disciplinary actions may also apply.
Access to the internet and e-mail will enable students to explore thousands of
libraries, databases, museums, and other repositories of information as well as to
exchange personal communication with other internet users around the world.
Families should be made aware that some material accessible via the internet may
contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, or potentially offensive. While
the purpose of the school is to use internet resources for constructive educational
goals, students may find ways to access other materials. We believe that the benefits
to students from access to the internet outweigh the disadvantages.
WHAT IS EXPECTED
Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the school’s computer network
just as they are in a classroom or on a school playing field. Communications on the
network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and
communications apply. The use of technology resources is a privilege, not a right, and
may be revoked if abused. The user is personally responsible for his/her actions in
accessing and utilizing the school’s technology resources. It is expected that the
students are never to access, keep or send anything that they would not want their
parents or teachers to see. The use of a school account must be in support of
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education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of Memorial
Hall School.
PERSONAL SAFETY AND PRIVACY
Students are not to post personal contact information about themselves unless such
information is required to complete an assignment. Personal contact information
includes home addresses, telephone numbers, the school address, etc.
BLOGS, PERSONAL WEBSITES AND SOCIAL MEDIA SITES
Social networking websites are off-limits on school property. Students who develop
and maintain personal websites and/or blogs, including but not limited to such freely
accessible sites and who identify themselves as students at Memorial Hall School must
keep in mind they are representing the school in a public forum. Any personal site
which contains the name and identity of the school must not contain personal
information about the students, inappropriate images or vulgar language which could
contradict the values of the school as stated in the school’s mission statement. When
inappropriate websites and/or blogs created and maintained by Memorial Hall School
students mention the school’s name and/or use school images and/or logo, the school
can and must hold the students responsible for its content.
If the student will not cooperate with the school administration by making his/her
webpage/blog/social media site free of anything that would cause harm to the
student’s reputation or the reputation of the school, firmer disciplinary action will be
taken. Regarding ILLEGAL COPYING, students should never download or install any
onto the SPX, Nor should students copy other people’s work or intrude into other
people’s files. The download/upload of any material in violation of any United States,
Texas, Board, or school policy is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to,
copyrighted materials, threatening, violent or obscene material, or material
protected by trade secret.
INAPPROPRIATE MATERIALS OR LANGUAGE
No profane, abusive, or impolite language should be used to communicate nor should
materials be accessed which are not in line with rules of school behavior. Use of
technology resources for gambling, chain letter communication, unauthorized email,
chat, or instant messaging, blogs and discussion forums is also prohibited. A good rule
to follow is never to access, view or send materials which you would not want your
teachers or parents to see. Should a student encounter such material by accident, he
or she should report it to a teacher immediately.
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TECHNOLOGY GUIDELINES
These are guidelines to follow to prevent the loss of technology privileges
at school:
Do not use technology to harm people or their work.
Do not damage the network or any technology resource in any way.
Do not interfere with the network or computer operation by installing any form
of software or permitting the spread of computer viruses.
Do not violate copyright laws.
Do not view, display or send offensive messages or pictures.
Do not share your password or obtain anyone else’s password by any means.
Do not waste technology resources such as disk space or printing supplies.
Do not trespass in another person’s work, folders or files.
Do notify an adult immediately if you accidentally encounter materials that
violate the Rules of Appropriate Use.
VANDALISM AND PROPERTY DAMAGE
We are indeed proud and most grateful for our beautiful school facilities. We should
not take them for granted. Students who abuse, destroy or vandalize school property
will be required to pay for losses or damage. If students willfully destroy school
property, they will be subject to suspension. Students are not to write in textbooks. If
they do, they will be required to purchase that book.
If you should happen to damage something by accident, you should report it to the
office or teacher immediately. Accidents can happen and we realize this.
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We ask that you care for the Memorial Hall School Facility and equipment with pride.
Much hard work and much time has gone into creating a pleasant academic and social
environment. Students are expected to take pride in keeping the school clean.
Discarded trash, paper, soft drink cans etc. need to be placed in trash receptacles.
There is no need or excuse for anyone to drop items on the floor or ground or leave
waste under desks or on tables.
Students who persist in thoughtlessness in not picking up or caring for their discarded
items will be required to receive extra help in learning self-discipline in this area.
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
The Administration and Board of Directors of Memorial Hall School reserve the right to
terminate any student who sells, gives, possesses, brings on campus, uses or is under
the influence of illicit drugs, narcotics or alcohol in or on school property, or while
involved in any and all school activities.
Students finding it necessary to discuss drug, narcotics or alcohol will be subject to
expulsion. Parents will be notified in the event that illegal substances are brought on
the campus or perpetrated to be sold or given to anyone. Students involved will be
reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for possible legal action.
SMOKING/ DIPPING/ CHEWING TOBACCO
The use and or possession of tobacco products are prohibited and any student who
violates this rule is subject to suspension or expulsion.
GUM
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Gum chewing is absolutely prohibited on the school campus. This will be strictly
enforced.
PROFANITY
Profanity, abusive and disruptive language is not to be and will not be tolerated.
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR
Sleeping in class will not be tolerated. If students can not stay awake they will be
sent home with their classes.
CHEATING
Cheating will not be tolerated in homework, class work, or tests. Whenever a
student elects to cheat, the student will receive a failing grade and will be
required to retake the course at a later date. There will be charges for those
courses. This will also be noted on Student’s transcripts.
Cheating: using unauthorized notes, study aids, or information on an examination;
altering a graded work after it has been returned, then submitting the work for regrading; allowing another person to do one’s work and submitting that work under
one’s own name; submitting identical or similar papers for credit in more than one
course without prior permission from the course instructors; and possession of any
tangible evidence that indicates an intention to cheat regardless of whether it is used
by the student. This evidence can include, but is not limited to, the following items:
any written information on cards, sheets or pieces of paper, pens, pencils, desks,
notebooks, books clothing, shoes, belts, or any place on the body, or on any other
device. This also includes any information that is stored or placed in calculators, cell
phones, or other electronic storage devices.
Plagiarism: submitting material that in part or whole is not entirely one’s own work
without attributing those same portions to their correct source. This includes not
giving credit for the sources of maps, tables, charts, pictures, graphs, etc.
Fabrication: lying; falsifying or inventing any information, data or citation; presenting
data that were not gathered in accordance with standard guidelines defining the
appropriate methods for collecting or generating data and failing to include an
accurate account of the method by which the data were gathered or collected.
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Obtaining an Unfair Advantage: stealing, reproducing, circulating or otherwise
gaining access to examination materials prior to the time authorized by the
instructor; unauthorized collaborating on an academic assignment; using unauthorized
electronic/computer accessed information; using or circulating previous given
examination materials, where those materials clearly indicate that they are taking
activity with purpose of creating or obtaining an unfair academic advantage over
other student’s academic work.
Aiding and Abetting Academic Dishonesty: providing material, information or other
assistance to another person with knowledge that such aid could be used in any of the
violations stated above; providing false information in connection with any inquiry
regarding academic integrity, or failing to provide information in such an inquiry.
Falsification of Records and Official Documents: altering documents affecting
academic records, forging signatures authorization or falsifying information on an
official academic document, grade report, letter of permission, hall pass, petition, ID
card, or any official school document.
Unauthorized Access to Computerized Academic or Administrative Records
Systems: viewing or altering computer records, modifying computer programs or
systems, releasing or dispensing information gained via unauthorized access, or
interfering with the use of availability of computer systems or information.
Stealing: Taking something that does not belong to you without the owner’s
permission. Everyone shall be respectful of others property =. Taking from others will
result in suspension of school.
Having a cell phone out during a test or quiz period, even if your test or quiz has
been completed and turned in could be interpreted as an attempt to illicitly share
test/quiz information. Any talking during a test will be considered cheating.
WITHDRAWALS
All students receiving their F-1 Visa will be required to complete AT LEAST THREE
COMPLETE concurrent semesters with Memorial Hall School. Summer courses are
NOT considered a complete semester. Annual tuition and fees for these students
must be paid in full and are non-refundable.
When a student is withdrawn from school, all records must be brought up-to-date,
and all outstanding balances must be cleared before transcript and or records will be
released.
No fees or prepaid tuition will be refunded for the school year, whether the child
elects to withdraw or is asked to withdraw.
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CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY
Once a student arrives on the campus for a school day, he/she will remain on the
campus until dismissed at the end of the day with the exception of lunch. In the case
of an unavoidable medical appointment, the student should bring a written excuse to
the office prior to first period and secure a permit. Any student leaving campus will
be required to have written, or verbal, permission from their parent/ guardian and
must sign out through the office.
If a student wishes to bring a visitor to school they must get approval from the office
prior to bringing the visitor. When arriving, all visitors to the campus must first report
to the office for visit approval. Parents, or others, arriving to observe must also
check in at the school office first.
TIME SCHEDULE:
First Bell will ring at
8:10
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1st period
Jr. High
2nd period
8:15 – 9:10
And
3rd period
9:15 – 10:10
High School
4th period
10:15 – 11:10
LUNCH
11:15 – 12:10
5th period
12:10 – 12:55
6th period
1:00 – 1:55
7th period
2:00 – 2:55
3:00 – 3:55
INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS
An Individual Education Program is set for each individual based on prior testing and
functioning data and history. Continual testing and reevaluation is performed
throughout the school year.
Class placements, goals, and methodology will be provided and are designed to best
suit each student in order to help that individual achieve his/her highest growth
mentally, emotionally, and socially.
Students are made aware of their capabilities. An individual assessment is made in
order to provide success in deficient and weak areas, as well as gearing toward
student’s aptitudes and strengths. Tutoring will be available to students on an
individual basis as needed.
For individual and group conferences with staff or administration, it is asked that the
office be contacted for a conference time most convenient for parent and staff.
Please advise the office of any problems/ changes of address or phone numbers.
Communication between home and school is essential.
PARKING – PARKING AREA – CARPOOLS
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Parents should feel free to contact the office in receiving help in carpools when
possible. We would remind students in carpools to be mannerly and quiet to and from
school in order that parents and students driving can exercise the utmost caution. In
the event someone new is coming to pick up your student, please advise the school
office. Students will not be allowed to leave the building with unknown individuals
unless parents have advised the office of a change. Students driving other students
need to notify the office. This is the driver’s responsibility.
Students are expected to have orderly arrival and departure. Students are asked to
lock their cars and not be in their cars until they are dismissed. Students may park in
the middle of the lot and not directly in front of the school building.
No student is to be in or around the cars in the parking lots during school without
permission. Students are expected to bring books and materials into the school upon
arrival and not go to and from cars during or between classes.
Any student exhibiting dangerous driving will lose their off campus lunch privileges.
Those students not able to abide by these rules will lose the privilege of bringing a car
on campus.
BUILDING ENTRANCE
Students please use the office windows when needing correspondence with the office.
We expect students to conduct themselves with respect and pride.
SAFETY PROCEDURES
Fire drills will be held at irregular intervals. Students are required to leave the
building in a single file and move to their designated areas in a quiet and orderly
manner. Evacuation drills, signaled by 3 bells, means to quickly evacuate the building
in a rapid, serious, and orderly manner going directly to the designated area. 2 Bells
signals it is safe to return to the building.
Memorial Hall is certified and regulated by the City of Houston Fire Codes.
HEALTH
Copy of all current medical/immunization records in English translation.
Record must include all vaccinations from the birth of the student until the
current year. All vaccinations must be up-to-date as required by the
Houston Health Dept. It is imperative that immunization and health records of
each child are kept up to date in the school office.
Parents/Guardians are not to send sick children to school. If a student is ill, one day
at home may save a number of absences. Students should be fever free for 24 hours
before returning.
In the event the school deems it necessary to call a parent/guardian in regard to
illness of a student, we ask for your cooperation in picking him/her up from school.
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Student Health Insurance: It is a requirement that all International Students obtain
health insurance. Information is available through the Admissions Office. Students
must purchase their own health insurance, and provide MHS proof of insurance.
TEXTBOOKS
Supply fees are paid in order for students to have textbooks and prepared materials as
well as workbooks, consumables and copied materials. Textbooks are to be kept clean
and handled carefully.
BOOKS- Each student is responsible for the books issued to them. Loss of books or
destruction of books will be charged back to the student. Book prices range from
$70.00 to $100.00. Do NOT write in textbooks, not even in pencil!
Please be sure your name, grade and number of the book assigned to you are on the
book label in case the book is misplaced or lost. Students are required to pay for lost
or damaged books. In many classes, an additional textbook can be checked out to
keep at home.
Books and spirals picked up throughout the school will be turned into the office and
may be “bought back” for $2.00 each. Each student should exercise responsibility in
keeping up with his or her textbooks.
LOCKERS
Lockers are issued to students. Combination locks are to be provided by students.
Combination numbers are to be recorded and kept by homeroom teachers. If using a
key lock, give a duplicate key to the homeroom teacher in case of emergency.
Students are cautioned in that books and materials should not be kept in lockers until
your lock is on your locker. Each student MUST have a lock on his or her locker.
Students do not share their combinations or lockers with other students. It is not
advisable that another student should have the responsibility of knowing your lock
combination in the event something is stolen or taken from your locker. Each student
is assigned one locker.
Each student is responsible for keeping the assigned locker clean both inside and
outside. Any damages caused by misuse will be charged to the student responsible.
Students are to store food and drinks in the lunchroom. Empty containers and
leftovers are to be removed daily. Do not store food or drinks in lockers. Refrigerators
are assigned for the students to use.
Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money to school. In the event
you have cause to have a large amount of money or valuables, please turn in such
items to the school office for safekeeping. Locker inspections will be held
intermittently throughout the year. Students are responsible for their lockers and all
contents inside them. If backpacks do not fit in the locker they may be placed neatly
on top of the lockers. No food, drink, clothing items, books, or spirals should be
placed on top of the lockers.
PURSES/BACKPACKS
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Students are not to have or carry purses from class to class. Girl’s purses and
valuables should be placed in assigned locked lockers in the building. Backpacks are
to remain in lockers until the end of the day. Do not take backpacks or purse to
classrooms.
Pencil bags should be kept underneath desks if brought to the classroom!
LOST AND FOUND
Articles found in and around the school are to be brought directly to the school office.
The school cannot be responsible for lost or misplaced items. Please check the lost
and found frequently for textbooks, clothing, etc.
PHONE MESSAGES
Students will be given phone messages, but we ask that parents/guardians do not call
them out of class unless it is an emergency.
Students are not permitted to use the office telephone during school except in
emergencies.
CAFETERIA AND LUNCH PERIOD
Student behavior in the dining room should be based on courtesy and cleanliness.
This means leaving the area in the condition in which you would like to live.
Students are not to be eating or drinking soft drinks in any other area of the
school except for the designated lunch areas. Students are not to take food or
drinks into the classroom areas. Students may eat lunch in the back picnic area.
NEVER have food or any type of drink in the Library.
Refrigerators and microwaves are available to students in the cafeteria. Misuse or
overuse will not be accepted. No open containers of beverages should be stored in the
refrigerator. Please take your containers home to wash them.
Due to many cultures and conversations, ENGLISH MUST BE SPOKEN BY ALL DURING
LUNCH.
Students may have off campus lunch privileges. A form is required giving permission
to the senior/junior to leave campus for lunch. All students will sign a note
containing rules for off campus lunches. Parent or guardian must also sign this
permission slip. Privileges will be revoked if rules are not followed. Tardiness will not
be tolerated.
LIBRARY
NO food or drink is allowed in the library. The library is made available to students
for pleasure reading as well as research and studying. Playing games or loud talking is
not acceptable.
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HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS
Homework is an integral part of the classroom. It is the student’s responsibility upon
receiving the assignment, to make sure he/she understands it, takes the texts and/or
materials home to do the assignment and brings it back to be turned in at the time it
is due. No homework is sent home that has not already been presented in the
classroom. Homework is assigned every day, Monday through Thursday with additional
assignments through the weekends. In the event the student does not complete
homework during the time given, they will still be held responsible for completion of
the assignment.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
All changes are to be approved by the office. Requests for schedule changes should be
written and turned into the student’s homeroom teacher. Students transferring to
another class will need to have the change signed by the teacher whose class they will
be dropping and the teacher whose class they will be adding. Students will have a two
week grace period in which to make necessary schedule changes. Longer than that
may result in a loss of credit.
TESTING DATA
Any testing data performed on the part of the school will be placed in the student’s
file and will be available to the student and parent/guardian upon request.
MEDICATION
If it is necessary for a student to take any form of medication at school, a signed note
or directive from the parent/ guardian must be presented to the office.
GENERAL CLIMATE
The student’s behavior should be refined and courteous at all times. An indication of
the cultural level and intellect of the school is the conduct of the student body.
Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the
impression made by the school as a whole.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The Student Council is elected by the student body. It serves as a training experience
for both leaders and followers, promotes the common good, gives students a share in
the management of the school, develops high ideals of personal conduct, acts as a
clearing house for student activities, seeks to interest students in school affairs, and
helps solve problems that may arise. Members of the Council are representatives and
have direct access to the administration.
SENIORS
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We look to our seniors to work closely with the Student Council in an advisory
capacity. It is the feeling that the seniors have much to offer students, staff, and
administration in overseeing policies and everyday school life. The senior class
officers oversee and plan many of the student body activities throughout the year.
Seniors should be examples to the student body.
VOLUNTEER GROUP
Parents and students are encouraged to volunteer their services throughout the year,
during the school day, or during extra activities. Students may earn service hours
outside of school. Check with your advisor for approval and forms. If you can think of
any help you might be able to give the school, we would welcome hearing from you.
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
TRANSCRIPT EVALUATION
It is of critical importance that we have transcripts and a COMPLETE EVALUATION
of the courses given with grades and credits received. These must be officially
translated by a certified agency. The agency a majority of our students have used
is SPANTRAN. Their contact information: www.spantran.com (713) 266-8805. Also,
SDR, www.sdreducational.org. (713)460-3525
[email protected]
COURSE LOAD
All High School students will take a full course load of seven classes or its equivalent.
Distributive Education students are on campus as directed according to their
schedule. Any diversion from this policy has to be the decision of the administration.
MODIFIED COURSES
For students who may experience difficulty with the regular academic curriculum,
modification in course of study is made available.
Additional help classes are part of implementation for student academic
improvement. These courses may apply to students who are learning the English
language, who may encounter disparity in abilities, or who will profit from special
help classes.
COURSE CREDIT
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This notification is in accordance with the Texas Education Code.
Students must maintain a grade average of 70 on a scale of 100 in order to receive
credit for the course.
High School students enrolling in school after the first six weeks of either semester
will receive no credit for the semester if they have not previously been enrolled in an
accredited school for the academic year. In some special cases, the student making
up the time and work in summer school may earn credit.
If a student enrolls in school so late in a semester that he cannot fulfill the 90%
attendance that the state requires for credit, or if a student enrolls in Memorial Hall
and there is no possible way to match a course taken in a previous school with one
offered in our school, the “NC” will be used to show the student receives no credit for
the course or courses.
Students will have an allotted time to make up incomplete work. An incomplete
assignment will result in a zero “0”.
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADE LEVEL
9th Grade
Freshmen-
1-7
10th Grade
Sophomore-
7 - 14
11th Grade
Junior-
14 - 21
12th Grade
Senior-
21 - 28
MEMORIAL HALL HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
All students classified as seniors must be able to fulfill graduation requirements by
the end of the school year in which they are classified as seniors.
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Memorial Hall follows the Texas Education Agency guidelines; requiring a minimum of
(26) credits for graduation.
English – (4) credits- It is mandatory that English lll and English lV are taken in U.S.
schools.
Math – (4) credits- Including; Algebra l, Geometry, and Algebra ll.
Science – (4) credits- Including; IPC, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Social Studies – (3.5) credits- Including; World History, World Geography, U.S. History,
and U.S. Government.
Economics – (.5) credits- With Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and its
benefits.
Languages – (2) credits- Other than English, any two levels of the same language are
required.
Physical Education – (1) credit.
Speech – (.5) credit- Communication Applications or Professional Communications.
Fine Arts – (1) credit- Art, Dance, Music, or Theatre.
Electives – (5.5) credits- These credits must be from classes that are within the
parameters of T.E.A. requirements.
ESL – (1) credit- English as a Second Language - All International Students are required
to take a minimum of one year of ESL. It is recommended that two years of ESL will
provide a better understanding of comprehension and word usage.
ESL students are required to pass the English Exit Exam. This is a verbal and written
exam to demonstrate English proficiency. Students have two opportunities to pass the
English Exit Exam. Students failing the Exit Exam are required to take an English
course in Summer School in order to receive credit in English.
GRADING IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW
A
90 – 100
Excellent
B
80 – 89
Good Progress
C
75 – 79
Fair Progress
D
70 – 74
Poor Progress
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F
Below 70
Failure
Semester grades will be averaged (3) six weeks grades (1) final exam grade
Grading Components
10%
Daily average
10%
Class Participation
20%
Homework
20%
Quiz
40%
Test
COLLEGE ENTRANCE
College and Universities vary greatly in their entrance examination.
In planning for college, it is the responsibility of the student and parent/ guardian to
request catalogues from these institutions and to check with the school office to be
certain requirements are being met.
Memorial Hall seeks to be of assistance to students in planning for colleges and
vocations. Career classes are available and personnel from a variety of occupations
share their experiences and work program with these classes.
College representatives are invited to the school to share information concerning
entrance requirements and programs with the students. This also includes various
military branches.
A senior is permitted excused absences for college visitation with written permission
from the office. We ask that college visits be taken prior to the last six weeks of the
second semester.
Students taking the College A.C.T. and/ or S.A.T., need to register the Memorial Hall
School Code (443-404 ) in order for your test scores to be sent to us.
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Dual Credit Courses
Memorial Hall School, in partnership with Houston Community College offers Dual
Credit Classes. These classes allow qualified Juniors and Seniors to obtain College
Credit while finishing their High School career.
Classes include College Algebra and Freshmen English.
Student Requirements:
Grade level or above in English/language on Standard Achievement Test and a
Counselor Referral.
Houston Community College Requires:
HCC Application
Asset Test (for qualification and placement)
International students pay full tuition
Those courses are offered at the Spring Branch or the Katy campus only and may be
scheduled for after school or weekends
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All students receiving their F-1 Visa will be required to complete at least three
complete concurrent semesters with Memorial Hall School. Annual tuition and fees
for these students must be paid in full and are non-refundable.
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We are looking forward to a successful and productive school year.
August 2016
I have read and fully understand the Memorial Hall Student Handbook. I
understand the rules and agree to abide by them. If the rules are broken, I am
aware of the consequences of my actions.
__________________________________
__________________________________
Parent/ Guardian Name - Printed
Parent/ Guardian Signature
__________________________________
__________________________________
Student Name - Printed
Student Signature
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