2016-2017 STUDENT HANDBOOK East Clinton High School/Middle School 174 Larrick Road Sabina, Ohio 45169 High School: (937) 584-2474 Middle School: (937)584-9267 High School Fax: (937) 584-7451 Middle School Fax: (937)584-7452 Board of Education: (937)584-2461 Transportation: (937)584-2786 www.eastclinton.org @EClocal on twitter www.facebook.com/EClocal This handbook is adopted by the East Clinton Board of Education each year and does not reflect changes that may occur during the school year. When in doubt, contact the school with questions for clarification. Name _______________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________ City ___________________________________ Zip _________ Phone # _______________________ Student ID ____________ 1 EAST CLINTON LOCAL SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT The East Clinton Local School District will work as partners with students, business and industry, and the community to continuously improve student performance by: Providing authentic, relevant learning situations. Providing a flexible and integrated learning environment in which all stakeholders work independently and/or collaboratively to solve problems. Promoting student ownership of their educational process. Incorporating current technologies in teaching and learning. Nurturing each student’s sense of self-worth and contribution to the school community. Modeling and encouraging respectful and equitable treatment of others so that students achieve the levels of knowledge and skill required for working, living, and learning in a knowledge-based society. EAST CLINTON LOCAL SCHOOLS VISION STATEMENT East Clinton Local Schools will be a community of actively engaged learners where all stakeholders work together in a safe, supportive, orderly environment to provide fundamental knowledge and challenging new ideas for an ever-changing world in order to promote each individual’s lifelong success. CHAIN OF COMMAND East Clinton Local Schools has an established chain of command for addressing questions and concerns that may arise during the school year. By following this process, we can ensure that the situation will be addressed with those closest to the issue(s). Extracurricular Concerns: Coach/Advisor > Athletic Director (if applicable) > Principal > Superintendent Academic/Classroom Concerns: Teacher >Counselor >Principal >Superintendent Discipline Concerns: Teacher (if applicable) >Principal >Superintendent EAST CLINTON LOCAL SCHOOLS OHIO IMPROVEMENT PROCESS (OIP) GOALS 1. The East Clinton Local School District Instructional Program will ensure that each year, through 2018, each subgroup will meet Ohio’s Annual measurable Objective Targets in Reading and Math. 2. Each year, through 2018, the percentage of all students scoring at proficient or higher will increase by 2% on State and Local Assessments. 3. By the Spring of 2018, the District’s 4-year graduation rate, the 5-year graduation rate and all attendance rates will meet or exceed State requirements. The East Clinton Local School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, National origin, sex, disability, religion, or age in its programs or activities. For information regarding discrimination grievance or complaint procedures, contact Superintendent at 937-584-2461. 2 East Clinton 2016-2017 School Calendar August 15 August 16 August 17 September 5 September 14 September 28 October 12 October 14 October 17 October 20 October 26 November 3 November 9 November 10 November 23 November 24-25 November 28 November 29 December 7 December 21 December 22-Jan 2 January 3 January 11 January 16 January 25 February 2 February 8 February 9 February 20 February 22 March 8 March 10 March 13-14 March 15 March 29 April 12 April 14 May 17 May 18 May 20 Prof. Development, HS/MS Open House 4-6 pm; Elem. 5-7pm Professional Development First Day for Students, Begin 1st Quarter Labor Day-No School 2 Hour Delay- Professional Learning Committee Meetings 2 Hour Delay- PLCM 2 Hour Delay- PLCM End of 1st Quarter-Waiver Day NO SCHOOL Begin 2nd Quarter HS/MS Conferences (PM) 2 Hour Delay-PLCM Elementary Conferences (PM) 2 Hour Delay- PLCM District-Wide Conferences (PM) No School- Compensatory Day No School- Thanksgiving Holiday Recess No School - Waiver Day - Teacher Development School Reconvenes 2 Hour Delay- PLCM 1 Hour Early Dismissal -End of 2nd Quarter Holiday Break School Reconvenes- Begin 3rd Quarter 2 Hour Delay- PLCM No School - Martin Luther King Day 2 Hour Delay- PLCM Elementary Conferences (PM) 2 Hour Delay- PLCM HS/MS Conferences (PM) No School – Presidents’ Day 2 Hour Delay- PLCM 2 Hour Delay- PLCM End of 3rd Quarter-Professional Development Day-No School No School - Spring Break School Reconvenes-4th Quarter Begins 2 Hour Delay-PLCM 2 Hour Delay- PLCM No School –Compensatory Day Last Day for students- 1 Hour Early Dismissal-End of 4th Quarter Professional Development Graduation Grading Periods: 1st - August 17- October 14 42 Days 3rd - January 3- March 10 46 Days 2nd- Oct 17- December 21 46 Days 4th -March 15 – May 17 46 Days 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Agenda Book/Hall Pass .............................................................................................................................................................. 5 Academic Dishonesty......................................................................................... ........................................................................... 5 Attendance .................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Building General Guidelines....................................................................................................................................................... 9 Discipline ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Discipline - Transportation......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Dress Code ................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Driving To School ....................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Eighteen Year Old students........................................................................................................................................................ 16 Extracurricular Activities: Athletic Drug and Alcohol Policy ................................................................................................. 16 Guidelines for College Credit Plus Enrollment........................................................................................................................ 17 Schedule Change Policy .............................................................................................................................................................. 19 Grading System ............................................................................................................................................................................ 20 High School Graduation Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 20 Honor Roll/Honors Diploma/Valedictorian Selection .......................................................................................................... 21 National Honor Society Requirements...................................................................................................................................... 23 Illness............................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 Instructional Fees......................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Interim Progress Reports ............................................................................................................................................................ 23 Lockers .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Food Services ............................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Media Center ................................................................................................................................................................................ 24 Medication .................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Prohibited Items .......................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Pupil Personnel Services ............................................................................................................................................................. 26 School Delay/Dismissal .............................................................................................................................................................. 27 Transfers and Withdrawals ......................................................................................................................................................... 27 Visitors’ Permits ........................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Work Permits ............................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy ............................................................................................................................... 28 Internet Safety ............................................................................................................................................................................. 30 4 AGENDA/HALL PASS POLICY Students will receive an agenda book the first day of school. It will be used for daily assignments, as well as a text and planner for your classes, a daily calendar for important functions, and serve as your permanent hall pass. If you lose or misplace your agenda book, you may purchase a new one in the office for $10.00. Students are not permitted in the halls, restrooms, or any other unassigned locations in the building, or on the school grounds during class periods, unless they are accompanied by a teacher, or possess a properly signed Agenda Book or class pass equivalent. ACADEMIC DISHONESTY POLICY Any action taken with the intention of obtaining credit for work which is not one's own is considered academic dishonesty. The action may include, but is not limited to, the following: • Submitting another student's work as one's own work. • Obtaining or accepting a copy of tests or scoring devices. • Giving or obtaining test questions or answers from a member of another class. • Copying from another student's test or computer file, or allowing another student to copy during a test or computer program. • Using materials which are not permitted during a test. • Plagiarism (presenting as one’s own material copied without adequate documentation from a published source). • Copying or having someone other than the student prepare the student's homework, paper, project, laboratory report, computer program or take-home test for which credit is given. • Permitting another student to copy or writing another student's homework, project, report, paper, and computer program or take-home test. • Accessing restricted computer files without teacher authorization. • Copying materials including computer software, in violation of the copyright law. The classroom teacher is responsible for determining if cheating/academic dishonesty has occurred. The teacher has the right to reduce the grade, schedule a conference with parent/guardian, and/or refer the student to the principal. ATTENDANCE POLICY I. Goal The goal of East Clinton Local School District is that no student should miss any days of school without legitimate excuse. A significant correlation exists between school attendance and academic and lifelong success. II. Attendance Guidelines A. B. C. D. The attendance policy will cover each semester that the student is enrolled. Four (4) or more instances of unexcused tardiness to school per semester will result in disciplinary action. Every two (2) instances of unexcused half-day absence will count as an unexcused absence; a half-day absence is considered as missing more than one hour in one school day according to the student’s individual schedule without legitimate excuse. Until a child accumulates ten (10) absences in a school year, a note or a phone call from the parent or guardian will excuse the absence for one of 5 E. III. the reasons listed below. If a note or phone call is not provided to the school by the parent or guardian within 48 hours of the child’s return to school, the absence will be unexcused. Students who accumulate five (5) unexcused absences within a school year may be referred to Clinton County Court Mediation. Ten (10) unexcused absences can result in truancy charges being filed with Clinton County Juvenile Court. Legitimate Excusable Absences After a student has accumulated ten (10) absences (excused or unexcused) in a school year, absences will only be excused under the following circumstances: A. B. C. D. E. Short Term Personal Illness: For a child who has been absent for ten (10) days in a school year, any further absence for personal illness will require a doctor’s excuse. The doctor’s excuse must be signed by the doctor and indicate that the student was seen by the doctor personally and state the reason for the student’s inability to attend school. Any absence greater than ten (10) days in a school year not accompanied by a doctor’s excuse as described above will be unexcused. A doctor’s excuse must be provided to the school within 48 hours of the child’s return to school or the absence will be unexcused. If an excuse is not accepted by the school, the original will be returned to the student with a notation as to why it was refused, e.g., excuse not provided within 48 hours of the student’s return to school, excuse not written by a doctor, etc. A copy of the refused excuse will be maintained in the student’s file. Long Term Personal Illness: If the child suffers a long term illness requiring extended absence from school, a doctor’s excuse must be provided to the school every twenty (20) school days. The doctor’s excuse must indicate that the child was seen personally by the doctor, the reason for the child’s continued inability to attend school and provide specific dates which are to be excused. A doctor’s excuse must be provided to the school within 48 hours of the child’s return to school or the absence will be unexcused. If an excuse is not accepted by the school, the original will be returned to the student with a notation as to why it was refused, e.g., excuse not provided within 48 hours of the student’s return to school, excuse not written by a doctor, etc.. A copy of the refused excuse will be maintained in the student’s file. Illness or Injury in the Family: Independent verification by a physician explaining the nature and severity of the illness or injury to the family member requiring the student to be absent will be required within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. If verification is not accepted by the school, a copy of the document(s) and the original(s) will be returned to the student with a notation as to why it was refused, e.g., verification not provided within 48 hours of the student’s return to school, verification not from a physician, etc.. A copy of the refused document(s) will be maintained in the student’s file. Quarantine of the Home: Absences will only be excused for the length of quarantine as fixed by health officials. Verification from relevant health officials explaining the nature and length of the quarantine must be submitted within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. If verification is not accepted by the school, a copy of the document(s) and the original(s) will be returned to the student with a notation as to why it was refused, e.g., verification not provided within 48 hours of the student’s return to school, verification not from appropriate health officials, etc. A copy of the refused document(s) will be maintained in the student’s file. Death in the Family: Three days absence will be permitted, unless a parent 6 F. G. H. I. J. IV. Unexcused Absences-Definitions A. B. C. D. E. F. V. or guardian offers a reasonable explanation that more school absences are necessary. The parent or guardian may provide a note to the school to advise the school of the absence, however under certain circumstances, the school may require additional documentation to confirm the student’s absence was legitimate. Observance of Religious Holidays: Any child shall be excused if his/her absence was for the purpose of observing a religious holiday consistent with his/her truly held beliefs, and the parent or guardian has notified the school in writing at least 48 hours prior to the absence. College Visits, Job Interviews, Job Shadowing, Armed Services Test, Professional Appointments: The total of these absences may not exceed (3) days without the specific approval of the principal or superintendent. Students with excessive absences (5 or more days in a quarter) may have such absences denied. The absence must receive prior approval by the school and verification of the student’s attendance at the activity must be provided to the school within 48 hours of the student’s return to be excused. For events that require absence for part of a day, the student’s absence will only be excused for the time necessary to attend the event. For example, if a student has a 1 p.m. professional appointment at an office fifteen minutes away, the student is expected to attend school until it is necessary to leave for the appointment and then immediately return. Chronic Illness: If a student is medically diagnosed as having a chronic medical condition, such written diagnosis should be submitted to the Principal of that student’s building. When such diagnosis has been received by the school and approved, the parent or guardian must contact the school to notify of any related absence. Annual medical updates are required. (Defined as an illness or medical condition that lasts over a long period and sometimes causes a long-term change in the body) Vacations: Vacations shall be excused only if pre-approved by the school principal. (Up to five (5) days per year). Students with excessive absences (5 or more days in a quarter) may have such absences denied. Other: (Superintendent or Principal Must Approve) Any absence other than those described above. No parent/guardian contact upon the child’s return to school. (if contact was not made prior) School suspension, expulsion; Failure to provide documentation of any excusable absence or tardy listed above. Four (4) or more instances of unexcused tardiness to or from school per semester will result in disciplinary action. Two (2) instances of unexcused half-day absence will count as an unexcused absence. Absence Notification Procedures A. B. C. Immediate Notification: As a result of the Missing Child Act, a student’s parent/guardian is required to contact the school office between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. If the school does not hear from the parent/guardian, school officials are obligated to attempt to make contact with the parent/guardian to verify the absence. We will attempt to contact you by phone call, automated messaging system, or other means. A reported absence may still be determined to be unexcused according to 7 D. the absence policy as outlined in sections II, III, and IV above.; Ways of Reporting Absences: Absence will be considered reported if: 1. A parent or guardian calls the school the day of the absence and provides the reason for the absence. 2. A parent or guardian writes a note or sends an email to the attendance secretary, provides other required documentation to the school listing the day(s) missed and the reason for the absence(s). 3. School officials make contact with a parent or guardian and receive a satisfactory explanation for the absence(s). Extracurricular Activities To be a participant in any school sponsored activity, a student must be in attendance at school the day of the activity a minimum of the last four (4) full periods of the day per the student’s schedule. The school principal must approve any exceptions to this policy. Students absent from school the day prior to a weekend will need their excuse validated by the office prior to weekend participation. Tardiness to School and Partial Days Attendance Any student who is not in his or her assigned location (1st period) by the time the tardy bell rings will be considered tardy to school. Students arriving up to one (1) hour late or leaving up to one (1) hour early will also be considered tardy. The teacher shall inform a student who is tardy of the fact that he or she will be reported as tardy to school. A student who arrives tardy to school shall report to the office and sign in. Being tardy to school is calculated separate from partial days in attendance. Possible loss of driving privileges for high school students and/or other disciplinary actions will result for any tardy thereafter. Tardy counts start over at the beginning of each semester, but the principal has the right to carry over discipline if chronic tardiness is a problem. Per student’s schedule, students arriving or leaving more than one (1) hour late but attending at least four (4) full periods will be counted half-day present. Students in attendance for fewer than four (4) full periods will be considered absent. When a student has five or more unexcused absences, they may be referred to Clinton County Court Mediation. Continuing problems of unexcused absences result in truancy charges with the Court. Further unexcused tardiness to school or class will count as court ordered discipline infractions. Tardiness to Class A student should not exceed three (3) tardies to class in a nine-week period. The discipline assigned to students for tardiness is not restricted to one class; instead, tardies are accumulated through all courses, as shared by teachers and staff. All discipline related to tardiness is communicated by a letter to the student’s parent/guardian. The following consequences will be enforced in the following order: a. 3 tardies- warning b. 4 and 5 tardies – lunch detention c. 6 and 7 tardies- after school detention d. 8 and 9 tardies – Friday school e. 10 and 11 tardies – alternative school f. 12 or more tardies – suspension Tardy counts start over at the beginning of each semester, but the principal has the right to carry over discipline if chronic tardiness is a problem. Permission to Leave School To leave school early a student must turn in a note signed by a parent/guardian to the office before 1st period. Permission to leave school before the end of the day must be granted by the principal. Any student who leaves school before the dismissal hour without permission of the principal is subject to disciplinary action and possible suspension. Parents will be 8 contacted if, at any time during the school day, there is uncertainty as to a student’s whereabouts or the reason for the absence. Early Dismissal/Late Arrival A privilege for seniors is the early release/late arrival option. Students must submit an application to the guidance department at the time of scheduling. Students awarded this privilege must meet the following criteria: a. The student must be a senior. b. The student must have accrued 18 credit hours. c. The student must be scheduled in 5 full credit courses. d. The student must be on track to receive credit for all courses in which they are currently scheduled. e. The student must have a good attendance standing; the student will not be tardy to school more than 8 times in a semester; the student will not exceed 4 unexcused absences in a semester. This privilege can be lost when any student fails to maintain the set criteria or whenever deemed necessary by the principal or other administrator of the district. Reinstatement of lost privileges will be determined by the high school principal. BUILDING GENERAL GUIDELINES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Students are not permitted to enter the buildings before or after school hours without teacher or adult supervision. Students should not arrive at school before 7:20 AM. If it is necessary to arrive earlier, parents must contact the school. Students are not to leave school before regular dismissal time without the principal’s permission. Students are subject to correction by any school staff member during the school day. Students leaving a classroom are to have an agenda book signed by the teacher, or a classroom pass. This includes going to the office, restroom, library, etc. During lunch periods, students are to remain in the cafeteria unless they have a pass from the teacher or permission from a lunch monitor. Students are not permitted to bring brothers/sisters or other friends to school to visit, however, parent/guardian visitations are most welcome. All visitors must first check in at the main office. Textbooks are loaned to students. Care should be exercised in the use of these books. Damage to books will necessitate a fine that will be used to repair or replace damaged books. East Clinton High School students are expected to carry a minimum of six (6) classes per semester each year. Study halls are designed to provide an atmosphere conducive to study. Absolute quiet must be maintained. Everyone must bring books and remain busy while in the study hall. Use your time wisely. DISCIPLINE Code of Conduct It is hard for any large group to function in harmony without a code of conduct, least of all a school where students have so much close contact with each other. Respect for the school’s Code of Conduct will make the school years more enjoyable and profitable. All East Clinton High School and Middle School students are expected to be respectful, responsible and safe. Students shall be expected to observe and comply with the policies, rules, and regulations of the East Clinton Board of Education and its employees. Each student is required to maintain a high standard of self-discipline outside as well as within the classroom. The Code of Conduct will be applicable on school property and to all school related activities. These policies are intended to help make East Clinton Schools a good place to learn, work, and play. 9 Violation of these policies will result in disciplinary action. Discipline Actions Proper discipline is necessary in schools in order to create and maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning. Discipline should be used for no other reason. The building principal is charged with the proper enforcement of discipline in the total school setting. He or she has the discretionary authority to authorize other certified personnel to use any or all of the following disciplinary measures to correct student behavior. (No specific order is implied by this list.) 1. Warning: A written or verbal summary of inappropriate behavior. 2 Notification of Parent: By phone, disciplinary form, email or letter. 3. Confiscation: A teacher or principal has the right to confiscate an object that is distracting or possibly dangerous on or in school property. School property includes desks, lockers, bins, cars, gym bags, and anything that a student brings to any part of school property including parking lots. All of these areas are subject to search and confiscation with disciplinary action as needed. a. Cell phones: First Offense- phone given to principal. Student may retrieve their phone at the end of the school day. Second Offense- phone must be picked up by parent/guardian. Third Offense- phone must be picked up by parent/guardian and further discipline actions will result. 4. Conferences: Could involve student, teacher, parent, administrator, counselors, psychologist, or all of these. 5. Detention: Before/after school, lunchtime, or other free time during the school day. Transportation, if necessary, is the responsibility of student and parent. 6. Friday Evening School: Administrator only. 7. Alternative School: Assignment of students to the Alternative Center in Wilmington 8. Emergency Removal from Class - Temporary. 9. In-School Restriction (when available): Students will work at school with limitation on classes attended. 10. In-School Suspension with Instruction: this is an in-house program to which a student may be assigned for a short period of time in lieu of out-of-school suspension (when available). 11. Out-of-School Suspension: For a period up to ten (10) days (ORC 3313.661) The Principal issues suspension with students having the option to appeal to the superintendent. Students on suspension may not participate in or attend any school activities and are not permitted on any district property during suspension. Students may make up work for at least 50% credit. Only the principals and/or superintendent may initiate a suspension. 12. Expulsion: For a period of time up to eighty (80) days. (ORC 3313.661). The Superintendent initiates expulsion procedures. Any appeal would be to the Board of Education. 13. Notification of local authorities and/or appropriate charges filed with the court. In cases of drug, alcohol, and tobacco, the length of suspensions may be shortened if the violator and parents agree to seek and complete approved (by administrator) counseling. Parents have due process of rights of which they are informed on suspension or expulsion. The superintendent and board of education give their authority to the building principals in enforcing the stated policies. Discipline Procedures In cases where disciplinary action is anticipated, when possible, the student will be given the opportunity to state their case at a conference with an administrator. Following the conference, if disciplinary action is to be taken, the parents or guardian of the student will be notified verbally and/or in writing of the disciplinary action taken and the 10 reason for said action in compliance with The Ohio Revised Code. In cases of Detention, Friday School, Alternative School, In School Restriction, and Out of School Suspension, the student will be given a copy of the appropriate form, and the original will be sent by regular mail to the parent/guardian. In cases of Intention to Expel or actual Expulsion, the parent will be notified by Certified Mail. Discipline Code This code specifies the school’s expectations. Students have a right to reasonable treatment from the school and its employees. The school, in turn, has a right to expect reasonable behavior from students. Freedom carries with it responsibilities for all concerned. 1. Respect, Responsibility, and Safety: students will comply with all rules, policies and procedures on school property and all school-related activities. A student shall not, under proper authority of school officials, be guilty of any work, act, and omission of an act, sign, symbol, or gesture (i.e. insubordination) which would be construed to be disrespectful to ANY SCHOOL EMPLOYEE. All East Clinton students are expected to demonstrate common courtesy to one another. 2. School Disruption: A student shall not by behavior, appearance, or use of violence, force, coercion, threat, or in any other manner cause disruption/obstruction to any learning environment or school activity or function. 3. Care of School and Private Property: The students of East Clinton Schools will show good citizenship in the care of their schools. Each student will do everything possible to make our schools clean and attractive places in which to work and study. a. Graffiti: A student shall not be guilty of writing on or otherwise marring school or private property in any unauthorized manner. b. Damage to School Property: A student shall not cause or attempt to cause, advocate, or promote damage to any school property. c. Damage to Private Property: A student shall not cause or attempt to cause, advocate, or promote damage to any private property belonging to school personnel, students, or visitors on school property or off school grounds during a school activity, function, or event. 4. Theft: A student shall not steal or attempt to take into possession non-purchased items from the cafeteria, vending machines, fundraisers, etc., the public property/equipment of the school district or the personal property of another student, teacher, visitor, other person, or employee of the school district. 5. Physical Assault or Menacing: A student shall not act or behave in such a way that could cause physical injury to another student, visitor, or any school employee. No student shall knowingly cause another to believe that the offender will cause harm to the person or property of such other person. 6. Fighting: A student shall not engage in fighting or physical aggression toward others, including but not limited to: choking, hitting, slapping, shoving, scratching, spitting, biting, blocking the passage of, or throwing objects at another person in an aggressive, confrontational or dangerous manner. Students shall not take any action or make any verbal or written comments that might reasonably be expected to result in a fight or physical aggression. 7. Bullying/Intimidation/Harassment/Dating Violence: A student shall not bully another student. Bullying is an intentional written, verbal or physical act that a student has exhibited toward another student more than once. The behavior causes both mental and physical harm to the other student and is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment for the other student. This includes any form of intimidation, harassment, or dating violence. Dating violence is defined as an act by an individual that is against another with whom that person has or has had a dating relationship. This type of dating violence is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault or that is a threat and reasonably places the individual in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault, but does not include defensive measures to protect oneself. 11 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. Weapons and Dangerous Instruments/Materials: A student shall not possess, handle, use, threaten others with, transmit, or conceal any dangerous weapon or instrument/materials such as guns, knives, brass knuckles, lighters, matches, fireworks, etc. capable of harming another person. Included in this prohibition would be the use of chemicals, mace, and stun guns. Alcohol: A student shall not possess, use, transmit, conceal, sell or be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage while on school property or at ANY school function regardless of where held. Drugs/medications: Under no circumstances may a student who is under the influence or in possession of any type of drugs that are forbidden by law set foot on any school property or attend any school function, regardless of where held. The possession or distribution of counterfeit or look-alike drugs is also a criminal and/or school offense. Any medication, including over-the-counter supplements and vitamins, brought on school property will follow medication guidelines as outlined in the handbook. The guidelines for prescription medication also apply to over-thecounter medications. Students are not to carry any medication to school unless a proper doctor’s form is on file. Infractions of these drug-related rules can be dealt with as drug offenses. Tobacco: No student shall smoke, use, sell or carry tobacco products on school property or at ANY school function. Profanity and Obscene Language/Images: A student shall not use/possess profanity or obscene language or obscene images, either visual, digital or written. Included in this prohibition would be the use of obscene gestures, signs, pictures, or publications. Corridor Conduct: Students must not run talk loudly, push, or make any unnecessary noise when in the corridors. Traffic should flow evenly and at a moderate rate. Public Display of Affection: The only public display of affection permitted at school or related activity is the holding of one hand with no additional contact. Hazing: No student, including leaders of student organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in any harmful act of initiation. Setting False Fire Alarms: A student shall not set off a false alarm or in any way tamper with fire equipment. Electronic devices are acceptable at East Clinton High School if used appropriately and/or for instructional purposes. Students may not use electronic devices to knowingly/unknowingly violate the Code of Conduct in anyway. The teaching staff or room monitor will explicitly state his/her electronic device policy verbally and in written form. The disregard of a reasonable request by the teacher will result in confiscation of device and an office referral. East Clinton High School is committed to teaching students the importance of appropriate uses of technology in the academic setting. Parents are asked to respect school rules on electronic communication during school hours. Necessary communication with a student during a school day should be made through the school office. Backpacks and large bags may be used to transport school items to and from the building; however they are to be left in the student’s locker during the academic day. East Clinton Local Schools are not responsible for personal property. Academic Honesty Policy: Students are responsible for doing their own work, whether in or out of classes. The classroom teacher is responsible for determining if cheating has occurred. Plagiarism is a serious offense which includes electronic and digital reproduction or copy/cut and paste without crediting a source. Using a cell phone during any independent work or testing situation is considered cheating. The teacher has the right to reduce the grade, schedule a conference with the parent/ guardian and student, and/or refer the student to the principal. Sexual Harassment/Misconduct: A student shall not harass other students or any school employee through unwelcome or inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. A student shall not participate in inappropriate or unwelcome sexual conduct. This includes any physical contact or exposure of body parts that is likely to be offensive or otherwise inappropriate. Other Violations: It should be noted that other possible student conduct reaching the 12 gravity of the above examples may also serve as grounds for disciplinary action. DISCIPLINARY GUIDE - TRANSPORTATION Any discipline problems on the bus will be directed to the principal and the transportation supervisor. The following set of disciplinary actions has been adopted by the board of education and will be administered for offenses as referred by the bus drivers. Each building principal will take into consideration the child’s age and the extent of the offense and may, at his/her discretion, substitute in-school or out-of-school suspension and/or a parent conference in lieu of the stated disciplinary action. Disciplinary action will be in effect whether students are being transported to or from school or to school functions. In general, the standards of conduct for the school bus are the same as during the regular hours of the school day. 1. When loading on a bus there should be a single file and no crowding. 2. The bus driver is at all times in charge of his/her bus. Pupils are not permitted to get on or off the bus except at their regular stop. If it is necessary for a student to get off the bus at any location other than his/her regular stop, he/she must bring a note of permission from his/her parent or guardian for approval at the principal’s office. The approved permit is then presented to the bus driver. 3. Any student arriving by bus and intending to leave by another means or another bus must bring written permission from home and present it at the principal's office. Permission may be granted for situations to meet individual needs on a space available basis. 4. These rules will apply at all times including all school functions. Discipline will be a joint responsibility of the driver and the school adviser. 5. A high school student waiting at an elementary school is responsible to the bus driver, the elementary principal, and the high school principal. 6. Emergency Transportation Information Cards must be returned to the bus driver within a reasonable amount of time or before the end of the third week of school. Loading and Unloading 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Pupils must be at the bus stop prior to their scheduled pick-up time. Pupils must stay off roadway and in their designated safety zone until the bus has come to a complete stop. When the bus has stopped and the driver feels the roadway is safe, he/she will signal the pupil to enter the roadway. When crossing the road, the pupil must cross at least ten (10) feet in front of the bus while it is stopped. When unloading, the pupil must go directly to their designated safety spot. When the bus leaves the stop area, then the pupil may leave the designated safety spot. The school district is not responsible for students prior to getting on the bus or after departing the bus. While on the Bus 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. NO CO-ED seating. Drivers will assign all pupils to a seat. (Teacher's and Coaches’ discretion on extracurricular activities.) Students must stay in their assigned seat, facing forward and keeping all items clear of aisle ways, for the duration of their ride. Students must have the driver’s permission to open windows. Nothing is to be thrown from the bus or extended from a window. Littering is not permitted on the bus. No chewing gum, eating or drinking is allowed on the bus. (O.R.C. 3301.83-08.) Noise levels shall be limited. Absolute quiet must be maintained at railroad crossings. Horseplay, scuffling, insubordination, profane language, and improper display of affection will not be tolerated. 13 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. Animals, weapons, combustibles, or any other dangerous material shall not be transported on the bus. Additionally, students may not bring any item on the bus which cannot be placed securely in the seat with them. Restitution for any acts of destruction committed by a student to the school bus (cut cushions, graffiti, broken window, etc.) shall be made by the pupil doing the damage or the student assigned to the damaged seat, whichever is applicable. Tampering with safety equipment will not be tolerated. No cell phones, radios, iPods, mp3s or other electronic devices etc. are to be used during the trip. School dress code regulations apply to all students on a bus. Students are required to follow all bus expectations and directions as given by the driver. Transportation Discipline The above violations will be dealt with in the following manner: 1. The bus driver is responsible for discipline of the students on the school bus. 2. Violations of a safety rule will be dealt with by the principal or his/her designee following the prescribed steps: a. First Violation: Driver will file a Bus Misconduct Report with the pupil’s building principal/designee who will hold a conference with the pupil and notify the parents of the problem. b. Second Violation: Driver will file a Bus Misconduct Report with the pupil’s building principal who will hold a conference with the student to discuss the possibility of suspending the pupil from the bus. The student can be placed on probation for the remainder of the school year and the parents notified of the action. c. Third Violation: Driver will file a Bus Misconduct Report with the pupil’s building principal who may suspend the pupil from the bus for three (3) days and notify the parents of the action. d. Succeeding Violations: Same as third except longer suspension will be administered. 3. Extremely serious incidents may result in steps #1 and #2 being skipped and immediate suspension taking place. 4. The driver is to take the misbehaving student to his or her designated stop. Only the school administrators have the authority to suspend a student. When the student is suspended, however, the driver shall not permit the student to board the bus until otherwise notified by the administrators. Students suspended from a bus are also suspended from bus stops. 5. Theft: Full restitution will be made. Law enforcement officials will be called if needed. Conference with parents and/or other parties involved. Suspension or expulsion may result. 6. Assault: First Offense: Conference with parents, students, and principal. Three (3) to five (5) day in-school or out-of-school suspension with instruction at the principal's discretion. Repeated Offenses: Notification by letter and follow-up phone call to parents. Five (5) to ten (10) days in-school or out-of-school suspension at the principal’s discretion. Possible expulsion. Law enforcement officials will be called if needed. 7. Alcohol/Drug/Weapons Possession: Offenders may be turned over to the local authorities and charged with public intoxication and nuisance. Student violators will be suspended from school. Any Offense: Ten (10) day suspension or three (3) day suspension if violator and parents agree to seek counseling and complete the Clinton County Alcohol Center's specific program for students. Repeated Offenses: Same as above or possible expulsion. 8. Drugs, Possession and/or Use: Ten (10) day suspension or three (3) day suspension if violator and parents agree to seek counseling and complete the Clinton County Alcohol Center's chemical dependency program. Repeated Offenses: Same as above or possible expulsion. Trafficking: Recommendation for expulsion. 14 9. 10. Tobacco: First Offense: Conference with principal and student, notification of parents, three (3) days alternative school, in-school or out-of-school suspension. Transportation discipline is up to the discretion of the building principal and can coincide with other school-related disciplinary actions. DRESS CODE The general appearance and dress of students should be acceptable by all people concerned: parents, faculty, administration, and fellow students. Good taste, modesty, and common sense are the guides for proper dress. The administration and faculty reserve the right to question the appearance of any student and require improvement before admission to class. Students who are in violation of the dress code will be required to rectify the situation and/or face disciplinary consequences. Garments may be provided by the office staff. A student who is sent home to change clothes will be counted as absent, unexcused, for the time he/she is gone. Simplicity, neatness, safety, modesty, and cleanliness are appropriate at school as in business institutions. Clothing of extreme styles is not permitted. Modesty should be the first consideration. The following are examples and do not cover all situations. Obscene, profane, sex, alcohol, drug, or tobacco oriented clothing or accessories are not permitted. No bare midriffs, tank tops, pajama pants, low-cut clothing that exposes the chest, “see through” clothes, or large holes above the mid-thigh in any clothing will be permitted. Sleeveless garments must fit closely under the arms and show no undergarments. Tight fitting or excessively baggy clothing is not considered proper apparel for school. Therefore leggings, yoga pants, etc. must be worn with a garment that has an even hem extending to mid-thigh. Skirts, shirts and shorts must be of reasonable length with or without leggings. Undergarments must not be visible. Appropriate shoes must be worn at all times. Students should keep their hair properly trimmed and nondistracting. Earrings and other jewelry are acceptable as long as it does not portray demeaning, insulting, or other messages as related to the clothing dress code. As long as there is no distraction or danger, visible piercing jewelry is permitted to be worn at school. No chains or jewelry that may present a danger to the wearer or others will be permitted. Students are not to wear hats or sunglasses in the building at any time unless approved by the principal. Hats are to be kept in the student’s locker during the day. Hats are not to be carried from class to class. Dress and grooming will in no way disrupt the teaching/learning process or constitute a health threat. The administration has the responsibility to interpret the dress and grooming code and determine appropriateness of dress and grooming not specifically mentioned in these guidelines. The Title IX coordinator required by law to handle complaints of sex discrimination in the East Clinton Local School District is the superintendent. DRIVING TO SCHOOL Students choosing to drive to school must obtain a Parking Application from the principal’s office, have it signed by a parent or guardian, and have it kept on file in the principal’s office. The driving permit is for the driver only and may be revoked at any time if the school feels the student drives in an irresponsible manner or if driving interferes with the student’s welfare. When a car is driven on the school grounds, it must be parked in the student parking area and remain there until the end of the school day. Students are not permitted to visit their car during the day without permission from the principal’s office. The student shall not 15 in any way interfere with buses coming to or leaving the school. Any student using transportation other than the school bus should have proper permission to do so. Permission may be granted by the principal upon receiving a written request from the parent. Students who hold driver’s licenses may drive to school upon compliance with the following regulations: 1. Students who plan to drive to school regularly must register their current license plate numbers in the principal’s office by the end of the first week of September. This applies to those riding motor bikes and motor scooters. 2. The principal may assign parking spaces for students at the high school. Students are permitted to park in the lower lot nearest the tennis courts and in half of the upper lot. A white line separates the lot and aligns with the “staff parking” signs. Failure to follow parking guidelines will result in driving privileges being revoked up to a maximum of one (1) semester (principal’s discretion). Failure to comply with the above may result in the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense. 3. Students are not permitted in vehicles parked on school property during school hours or during school activities. 4. Late arrival and early dismissal: Students who arrive late or leave early due to off-site classes or part-day schedules must sign in and sign out through the main office. Other students who do not have late arrival/early dismissal privileges are not to ride in late or leave school early without permission from the parents and principal. Late arrival students are not visitors or staff; therefore, they are to park in the lower part of the student parking area. 5. Students may remove no vehicles from the school parking lot during the school day without the principal’s permission. 6. No student may accept a ride in the car of another student without a bona-fide written request from his/her parent or guardian. Such a request must also be approved by the principal and be placed on file in his or her office. 7. There is to be no aimless cruising around the school at any time. Speed limit on all school property is 10 MPH. Drivers are to use caution and obey all school and local traffic regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in the suspension of a student driving to school. 8. Driving is a privilege; tardiness may result in losing driving privileges. EIGHTEEN YEAR OLD STUDENTS Eighteen (18) year old students must comply with the school rules and regulations. Dependent eighteen (18) year old students will still be expected to bring an excuse note and permission slips from their parents or guardians. Moreover, an eighteen (18) year old student is no longer legally required to attend school; education becomes a privilege rather than a legal necessity. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ATHLETIC DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY Any student caught using or possessing any illegal substance will follow the policy below. This policy will be in effect 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This policy addresses use of alcohol, tobacco, and non-prescribed or illegal drugs. Social behavior inside and outside school reflects on East Clinton High School and Middle School; student-athletes given the privilege of playing for and wearing an East Clinton jersey should conduct themselves as role models and good citizens. 1. First Offense: Suspended for up to 30% of the current season and placed on probation for one (1) year. a. Suspension will carry over to the next season if necessary. b. Must enroll and complete a counseling program through Clinton County Alcohol Center’s Chemical Dependency Program if alcohol or drug-related. 16 c. Failure to complete the program will result in dismissal from the team. Second Offense: A year suspension from participation in all athletics. Third Offense: Suspended from athletics the remainder of student’s high school career. In games/contests during the course of athletic suspension, student-athletes are not to sit with the team or be included in any part of the game events. Additionally, they are not to wear East Clinton High School or Middle School game-day jerseys or uniforms. Athletic-suspension students may sit in the stands as a spectator and should not be considered part of the team at games/contests. 2. 3. 4. Ohio High School Athletic Association regulations for both girl and boy athletics are as follows: 1. A student must have a current physical examination completed by an authorized medical doctor on file in the principal’s office before any participation or practice. 2. A student must be enrolled in an approved medical insurance program or have a school waiver form on file in the principal’s office before any participation or practice. 3. High school students must be passing five (5) credits toward graduation and must achieve a minimum GPA of 1.0. Middle School students must maintain a GPA of 1.0. Students receiving an “F” will be placed on academic probation until the next grading period. Students receiving an “F” in any subject while on academic probation will be declared academically ineligible. Students on academic probation passing all courses will become eligible to start on the fifth school day of the next grading period. Students’ eligibility status will be evaluated following each grading period. Students failing two (2) or more classes will be declared academically ineligible. 4. A high school student shall not be nineteen (19) years of age on or prior to August 1 to participate at the high school level. A middle school student shall not be fifteen (15) years of age on or prior to August 1. 5. An Emergency Medical Authorization Form is to be completed, signed, and on file with the coach. GUIDELINES FOR COLLEGE CREDIT PLUS ENROLLMENT East Clinton High School students must be enrolled in a minimum of 5 high school credit courses toward graduation per year. Students involved in CC+ may not take more than the equivalent of eight (8) high school credits (including CC+ and high school). If a student takes more than the equivalent of 7 high school credits (including CC+ and high school), the student must pay for any credits over 7 total credits. If students are enrolled in a combination of CC+ and high school classes, they must take an equivalent of six (6) high school credits. One ECHS credit course is equivalent to 7.5 quarter credit hours or 5.0 semester hours. If students are full time CC+ they can take a maximum of 52.5 quarter hours or 35 semester hours during the school year. Full-time College Credit Plus students must be enrolled in a minimum of 13 hours per quarter or semester (whichever applies) toward graduation. 17 If College Credit Plus students are interested in playing interscholastic athletics the guidance counselor will have the athletic director approve their course load. NOTE: East Clinton adheres to ODE/ORC requirements for student enrollment. With a variety of options for on-campus and off-campus learning opportunities, students must have an approved plan on file with the HS/MS principal and guidance counselor. Credits taken ECHS 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 at CC+ Credit and Hours Chart Minimum CC+ Maximum CC+ Hours Allowed Per Hours Allowed Per Semester Semester 13.0 17.5 12.5 15.0 10 12.5 7.5 10 5 7.5 2.5 5.0 0 2.5 No Classes May Be Taken On-Site Post- Secondary Classes East Clinton will be offering Southern State Community College and Urbana University Post-Secondary Education (CC+) courses “On-Site” at East Clinton High School. These classes will be taught by our teachers during the school day at ECHS. Successful completion of these courses will result in high school credit earned from East Clinton High School AND college credit from SSCC and/or Urbana University. On-site classes for 2016-17: Chemistry (SSCC) Anatomy/Physiology (Urbana) Applied Physics (Urbana) Language and Composition (Urbana) Literature and Composition (Urbana) On-Line College Credit Plus Classes East Clinton will also be offering the opportunity for students to take CC+ courses on-line. Students will have the opportunity to take on-line CC+ courses in study hall during the normal school day. Coursework will be completed on-line during study hall. Students may take on-line courses from approved universities. Students must submit an application and meet admission requirements for each institution where they wish to take classes. ALL on-line classes must be PRE-APPROVED by the guidance counselor. STUDENTS WILL BE LIMITED TO 1 ON-LINE COURSE PER SEMESTER. Exceptions may be considered with pre-approval by the guidance counselor and building principal. Students taking On-Site and On-Line CC+ classes must follow the same guidelines and expectations for standard CC+ participation. CC+ guidelines and forms are posted on the 18 High School web site in the “guidance” section. SCHEDULE CHANGE POLICY Students should make firm choices in selecting courses during course registration. Courses selected after careful study in consultation with teachers, parents, and counselors should require no major change. Every effort will be made to reschedule students who failed required subjects and/or who completed a summer school session or credit make-up course. If there is a need to discuss a minor schedule change, students or parents should contact the guidance office in writing between the end of school and prior to the beginning of the new school year. Course Add/Drop Information Procedures 1) Requests for schedule changes are carefully reviewed in terms of the overall quality of the student’s program of studies. If requests are approved, schedule changes will be made only during the first 10 days of each semester. Required course sections will not be changed after the first 10 days unless there are extenuating circumstances that are approved by the counselor and the principal. All schedule changes will require a Schedule Change Request Form signed by parents/guardians and the counselor. Schedule request forms should be submitted to the main office prior to schedule change deadlines. 2) Required Core Course Changes – Changes in core courses will be made for the following reasons: a. Required Core courses missing b. Inappropriate placement in a course (requires teacher recommendation) c. Prerequisites not met. d. To correct clerical or computer errors. 3) Elective Course Changes – Course and level changes will only be processed with written parental permission; in some cases permission of the instructor and counselor will also be required. Requests will only be processed for courses that have space available. Students will have opportunity to review their schedules during the summer. Dates will be designated for each grade level to make schedule changes. Every effort should be made to make schedule changes at the designated time. Requests for schedule changes will be processed by grade level, beginning with seniors. Changes in course level may be initiated by teachers, parents, counselor, and/or students on or before the 10th day of class. Permission to make the changes must be secured by the parent and counselor before the change may occur; a Schedule Change Request Form must be completed. There will be no student-initiated changes after these time frames. Counselor(s) will take into consideration the individual case, classroom availability, parental involvement, and/or administrative decisions before granting any request. After these designated time frames, counselors reserve the right to make changes to a student’s schedule due to class size reduction, inappropriate placement, or by administrative direction. Students may drop/add elective courses with the approval of the counselor before the established deadlines listed above without penalty. Courses dropped after the drop/add deadlines, without counselor/administrator approval receive a grade of “Withdrawn Failing.” A “withdrawn failing” grade WILL effect a student’s GPA. All course changes must be approved by the counselor and/or administrator. Students must continue to attend class until notified that the paperwork is complete and a decision is made. Students may not drop a class required for graduation. Students’ course load may not fall below 6 classes each semester. 19 GRADING SYSTEM The East Clinton Local School District has adopted the following grade scale. A = 90-100 B = 80-89 C = 70-79 D=60-69 F = 59 or below Our report cards were developed in an effort to communicate with parents in a meaningful and fair way. Because of the differences in programs and the needs of children, reporting methods vary with grade level. Any questions or concerns should be directed towards the classroom teacher. HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS East Clinton High School graduates must meet or exceed the minimum standards of the East Clinton Local School District, the Ohio Department of Education, and are required to complete successfully all parts of the Ohio Graduation Test to be eligible to participate in graduation exercises and to receive a diploma. Each graduate must have completed successfully the following units: Physical Education Options are available. Credit in P.E. may be earned by participating successfully in two full seasons of ECHS OHSAA sports, marching band, or color guard. Students must complete documentation by deadlines, attend 90% of a team’s events, and be a participant on the team with the coach’s signature at the completion of each season. Forms are available online or in the Guidance Office. Graduating Classes 2014 and beyond English Mathematics1 Science2 Social Studies3 Health Physical Education 4.0 4.0 3.0 3.0 .5 .5 Elective Requirements4 Fine Arts5* Other Electives TOTAL 1.0 4.0 20 (New) (New) 1 Mathematics units must include 1 unit of Algebra II or the equivalent of Algebra II. 2 Science units must include 1 unit of physical sciences, 1 unit of life sciences and 1 unit advanced study in one or more of the following sciences: Chemistry, Physics, or other physical science; Advanced Biology or other life science; Astronomy, Physical Geology, or other earth or space science. 3 Social studies units must include 1 unit of World Studies, 1 unit of American History, and 1 unit of American Government. 4 Elective units must include one or any combination of foreign language, fine arts, business, career-technical education, family and consumer sciences, technology, agricultural education or English language arts, mathematics, science or social studies courses not otherwise required. 5 All students must earn 1 unit of credit in fine arts. * Students following a career-technical pathway are exempted from the fine arts requirement. 20 HONOR ROLL/HONORS DIPLOMA/VALEDICTORIAN SELCTION Honor Roll: We believe that recognition is due to those who achieve academic success. In recognition of superior work we have established honor rolls. East Clinton students in grades 6-12 must have B's or better (80 average or above) in all subjects to be on the honor roll. A student whose grades for a nine-week period are 90 or above will be placed on the “Straight A” List (ALL grades must be 90 or above). Students whose grades are 80 or above will be placed on the Honor Roll. Criteria for Diploma with Honors: The student who completes the high school academic curriculum shall meet at least seven of the following eight criteria to earn a Diploma with Honors: 1. Earn four units of English (graduation requirement); 2. Earn at least four units of mathematics which shall include Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and another higher level course or a four-year sequence of courses which contains equivalent content (graduation requirement); 3. Earn at least four units of science including one unit of physics and one unit of chemistry; 4. Earn four units of social studies; 5. Earn three units of Foreign Language (must include no less than two units for which credit is sought), i.e., three units of one language or two units each of two languages; 6. Earn one unit of fine arts; 7. Maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a four-point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year; or 8. Obtain a composite score of 27 on the American college test's ACT assessment (excluding the optional writing test) or a combined score of 1210 on the College Board's SAT verbal and mathematics sections (excluding the required writing section). The student who completes an intensive career-technical education curriculum shall meet at least seven of the following eight criteria: 1. Earn four units of English (graduation requirement); 2. Earn at least four units of mathematics which shall include Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and another higher level course or a four-year sequence of courses which contains equivalent content (graduation requirement); 3. Earn at least four units of science including one unit of physics and one unit of chemistry; 4. Earn four units of social studies; 5. Earn four units in a career-technical education program that leads to an industry-recognized credential, results in an apprenticeship or is part of an articulated career pathway, which can lead to postsecondary credit. If the student's program design does not provide for any of these outcomes, then the student must achieve the 21 proficiency benchmark established for the applicable Ohio careertechnical competency assessment or the equivalent; 6. Achieve the proficiency benchmark established for the Ohio CareerTechnical Competency Assessment (available at http://www.webxam.org/info_docs.asp) or equivalent assessment aligned with state-approved and industry validated technical standards; or 7. Maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a four-point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year; or 8. Obtain a composite score of 27 on the American college testing service's ACT assessment (excluding the optional writing test) or a combined score of 1210 on the college board's SAT verbal and mathematics sections (excluding the score obtained on the required writing section). Web Site Links to Honors Diploma Requirements Forms New high school academic Diploma with Honors (PDF) New career-technical Diploma with honors (PDF) Selection of Valedictorian/Salutatorian: Annually, East Clinton High School recognizes the individual who graduates with the highest class ranking as the valedictorian of his/her class and the individual with the second highest class rank as the salutatorian. The last grades to be included in the final rankings will be the end of the 3rd quarter of his or her senior year. Any two or more students whose computed grade point averages are identical are given the same rank. The rank of the student who immediately follows a tied position is determined by the number of students preceding him/her and not by the rank of the person preceding him/her. In the event that two or more students have identical class rank and otherwise qualify to be named either valedictorian or salutatorian, they shall be recognized as co-valedictorians or co-salutatorians, whichever the case may be. In the event of multiple recipients, every student is given the same recognition and opportunities afforded to singular recipients. In order to qualify as the valedictorian or salutatorian of East Clinton High School, a student must meet all of the hereinafter listed requirements. 1. An individual must have been enrolled in and attended East Clinton High School his/her entire senior year or, in the case of students who attend the Great Oaks Institute of Technology, have attended East Clinton High School the entire year prior to enrolling in the vocational program. 2. A student who participates in the secondary options program will not be excluded from being named a valedictorian or salutatorian. Verification of grades from the college or university attended must be in the hands of school officials five days prior to graduation in order to qualify. 3. A student must have completed all eight semesters in a state-accredited school. 22 National Honor Society Requirements National Honor Society is an organization based on outstanding scholarship, leadership, service and character. Membership is an honor bestowed upon students who meet these criteria. Juniors or seniors with a 3.6 grade point average are eligible to submit a portfolio listing and describing their leadership and service. Each student must also include an essay describing their character and explaining their leadership and service activities. Students who return a portfolio by the due date are evaluated by all East Clinton staff members (possibly including Laurel Oaks or PSEO instructors if applicable) on a 1-5 scale (5 being superior and 1 being poor) in the areas of leadership, service and character. A Faculty Council comprised of five current faculty members evaluates the portfolio and student essay. National Honor Society Members are selected by a majority vote of the Faculty Council after considering the staff scores and the portfolio evaluations. The decisions of the Faculty Council are final. ILLNESS DURING SCHOOL An ill student must be excused by his or her teacher to report to the principal’s office. Students are not to be in the clinic without office permission. If a child is too ill to remain in class, the administration will contact the parents or guardian so the child can be excused to leave school. Students must call home through the office or clinic, not using cell phones or classroom phones. It is possible that a student-initiated call for pick-up will be counted as unexcused and will result in disciplinary action. INSTRUCTIONAL FEES Student fees vary depending on the class and projects involved. The schedule for the year is as follows. Checks should be made payable to East Clinton Board of Education. General Instructional Fee (All Students) 16-17 school year Agriculture Education FFA Dues Freshman Shop Project Senior Shop Project Art Each Art Class Spanish $20.00 Suspended for the $25.00 Varies Varies $10.00 $15.00 INTERIM/PROGRESS REPORTS/PROGRESS BOOK At the mid-point of each nine weeks, parents of students with 69% or below average in any class will be mailed an interim progress report. At the end of the first three nine weeks, report cards will be distributed, and parents will be notified by One Call Now. Parents are encouraged to regularly review their student’s progress on-line via Progress Book. Passwords and ID accounts can be obtained in the office. It is important that the parent work with the child to correct any deficiencies so that progress will improve. LOCKERS Lockers are school property and should be kept neat and clean at all times. When it is necessary for the maintenance of order, discipline, and safety in the supervision and education of students, the board of education or its designee reserves the right to search the locker, desk, person, and personal belongings of a student on school grounds or at any school activity. 23 FOOD SERVICES It is recommended that each student eat a complete breakfast and lunch purchased in the cafeteria. However, students may bring lunch from home and purchase milk in the cafeteria. Breakfast price for Middle School and High School is $1.50. Lunch price for Middle School is $2.50. Lunch price for High School is $2.75. Reduced breakfast price is $.30 and lunch is $.40. Students may purchase a la carte items in addition to purchasing or bringing their lunches. Students are responsible for leaving the table clean and taking eating utensils and trays to the dishwashing counter. Charging of meals is discouraged, however as a convenience we do allow one (1) charge. The One Call Now System will be used to notify parents when their students’ account has become negative. We strongly encourage parents to sign up for the online payment option provided by K12 Payment Center. Please visit the website at www.k12paymentcenter.com. There is a onetime optional charge per family to be able to view your students’ meal account. Also online payments are charged a fee, however you can still send in payment with your children to avoid the fee. Since instruction will be conducted during each lunch session, the classroom areas are closed to student’s use during each lunch session. Students are expected to demonstrate restaurant etiquette during breakfast and lunch. Students must finish food during the allotted time. Food and drink are to be consumed only in the cafeteria during breakfast and lunchtime. Food and drink are not to be in the hallways or classrooms except when transporting it to the cafeteria for lunch. Exceptions to this rule may be made at the principal’s discretion. Class parties or activities involving food during the school day must comply with East Clinton’s Wellness policy on file at the Central Office. FREE & REDUCED APPLICATIONS Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines are used to determine eligibility for the Free & Reduced-Price Lunch program. Children from families whose annual income is at or below the Federal Guidelines are eligible for the free and reduced price meals. The application changes each year and applications submitted on prior school-year application forms cannot be accepted by federal law. Families must submit a new lunch form each year. Paper applications are available at your child's school. One Free or Reduced-price Lunch application is required per family per year. Parents can fill out one form and include all children, even if the children are in different buildings throughout East Clinton. A new application is required every school year. We must have the applications turned in by Oct 1, 2015. Students that attended an East Clinton School and participated in the free- or reduced-lunch program the previous school year may continue that status for the first 30 days of the new school year, however they will need to submit a new application for approval. Students new to East Clinton Schools pay for lunches until applications are completed. Once a new application is approved, benefits begin immediately. However, parents are responsible for the cost of the meals while applications are being processed. If a new application is not submitted by October 1st, federal regulations require that the child's status revert to paying regular price until a current application is completed and approved. We accept applications throughout the school year, so if there is a change in family status or income, please notify the school. If you have questions, please call the Food Service Supervisor at 584-2474. MEDIA CENTER The media center is one of the most important resources for a student's education and all students are encouraged to take advantage of its many uses. It must be kept in mind that the media center is for reading and gathering information, not for socializing. Students must 24 refrain from talking and behave in a courteous manner at all times. Students not abiding by the rules will be dismissed from the media center. Lost or damaged books are the responsibility of the student. Use of Computers and the Internet: Use of East Clinton Local School District computer resources as defined in the Acceptable Use Policy, shall be in accordance with and governed by the Acceptable Use Policy which is available on the East Clinton Web site (www.eastclinton.org)and in printed form in the High School Media Center. In order for students to obtain a personal e-mail account they must submit an “Internet and Computer Network Student Agreement Form which has been signed by the student and a parent or legal guardian. MEDICATION The East Clinton Local School District recognizes that some students can attend school regularly only through the effective use of medication for treatment of disabilities or illnesses. If possible, all medications should be given at home by the parent. If this is not possible, parents may come to school to administer medications to their children. School personnel will be permitted to administer medication only when no alternative is available. In this circumstance, students required by a physician's order to take medication during the school day must follow the procedures listed below. 1. If it is absolutely necessary for physician-ordered drugs to be given during school hours, both a written request by the parents or legal guardian and a physician’s statement are required. 2. The physician’s statement must include the student’s name, school, and grade; name of drug, dosage, and times to be administered; length of medication administration; any adverse reactions which should be reported to the physician and any special instructions; and the physician’s name and telephone number. The parent or legal guardian must submit a revised statement if any of the above information changes. 3. These forms must be on file with the building principal and renewed every school year. 4. Only medication in its original container, properly labeled with the date of prescription, student’s name, and exact dosage will be administered. 5. No person authorized by the board of education to administer a drug and who has a copy of the physician’s statement given to him/her to administer the drug will be liable in civil damages for administering or failing to administer the drug unless such person acts in a manner that constitutes gross negligence or wanton or reckless conduct. 6. The board will not require an employee who objects on the basis of religious convictions to administer a drug to a student. The intent of these procedures is to ensure that: a. All medication is taken at home when possible. b. The requirements of Ohio Revised Code 3313.713 are followed when medication must be given during school hours. c. The school dispenses medication only if there is no other feasible way and all of the above guidelines have been followed. The guidelines for prescription medication also apply to over-the-counter medications. Students are not to carry any medication to school unless a proper doctor’s form is on file. Infractions of these drug-related rules will be dealt with as drug offenses. PROHIBITED ITEMS Backpacks may be used to transport school items to and from the building. However, they are to be left in the student’s locker during the academic day. 25 PUPIL PERSONNEL SERVICES Special Programs: The East Clinton Local School District has special education classes to provide for those students who qualify for admission and are experiencing difficulty with the standard curriculum. Speech and Language Therapy: A speech and language pathologist is available to provide assistance to students experiencing communication problems. The identification process is the same as with other disabilities. Standardized Testing: At selected times during the school year standardized tests are administered to students. Test results are used to help make decisions about student achievement and placement for Competency Based Education and as a screening tool for gifted identification. The tests most frequently used for these purposes are the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and the Cognitive Ability Test (CogAT). Parents are encouraged to contact the guidance office to inquire about test results. Ohio Graduation Test: Federal law requires the graduating classes of 2016 and 2017 to take the Ohio Graduation Test (OGT) or an alternative assessment. The Ohio law requires students to meet an OGT graduation requirement in order to earn a diploma. This requirement can be met in the following ways: 1. pass all five portions of the OGT (reading, math, writing, science, social studies); 2. have a current Individual Education Plan (IEP) that excuses the student from passing the tests. 3. or, meet ALL of the following requirements for an Alternative Path to Graduation. a. b. c. d. e. Pass four of the five tests and have missed passing the fifth test by no more than ten (10) points. Have had a 97 percent attendance rate through all four years of high school and must not have had an expulsion in high school. Have a grade point average of at least 2.5 out of 4.0 in the subject area and have completed the curriculum requirements in the subject area missed. Have participated in any intervention programs offered by the school and must have had a 97 percent attendance rate in any program offered outside the normal school day. Obtain letter of recommendation from each teacher in the subject area not yet passed as well as from the principal. AIR/OHIO STATE TESTS: House Bill 487 updated Ohio’s graduation requirements to ensure that all students are ready for success in college and work. As a result, the Class of 2017 will be the last students to take the current Ohio Graduation Tests. The new requirements take effect with the Class of 2018. Additionally, every student in the Class of 2018 and beyond will have the opportunity to take a nationally recognized college admission exam free of charge in grade 11. 1. All students take end of course exams in the following subjects: a. Algebra I and Geometry or Integrated Math I and II b. Biology c. American History and American Government d. English I and II 2. Students taking Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual enrollment courses in Biology, American History or American Government may take assessments aligned to those courses in lieu of end of course exams to avoid double testing. 3. Each test is scored from 1-5. Students must earn 18 points or more on these tests in order to graduate. 4. Students must also meet one (1) of the following: a. Earn a cumulative passing score on seven end of course exams. The 26 b. c. scores will be set by the State Board of Education. Earn a “remediation-free” score on a nationally recognized college admission exam such as ACT or SAT. The state of Ohio will pay for all 11th grade students in the Class of 2018 and beyond to take this exam free of charge. Earn a State Board of Education-approved, industry-recognized credential or state-issued license for practice in a career and achieve a score that demonstrates workforce readiness and employability on a job skills assessment. Career Education - Individual Career Plan: Each student will develop an Individual Career Plan (ICP) during the eighth grade. The ICP process is now completed using the Kuder software program. In this program, students create an account that helps them identify and explore careers using various assessment/surveys and it also provides an online database to store various career related documents. In their Kuder account, eighth-grade students map an educational plan needed to achieve those goals at the secondary level and beyond. High school students have additional opportunities to explore and verify their educational and career goals and to formally review, revise, and add to their Kuder account annually. The career process is culminated in a Career Passport, which is completed by all seniors that take English at the high school. Parents may review their student's Kuder account in grades 8-12 by accessing the Kuder website at http://oh.kuder.com Directory Information: Senate Bill 26, effective September 13, 1995, requires school districts to release names, addresses, and phone numbers to U.S. military recruiters who request them unless the student’s parents request in writing that the information not be released. SCHOOL DELAY/DISMISSAL/ANNOUNCEMENTS ONE CALL NOW will be used to alert parents to important information. Calls may be sent out as early as 5:00 AM or as late as 10:00 PM for weather related announcements. It is important that parents update and verify the accuracy of their contact information regularly. During the winter months it may be necessary to dismiss or delay school because of inclement weather. DO NOT call principals or teachers concerning school dismissal. If school is dismissed or delayed, you will receive a call from One Call Now, and it will be announced on TV stations 5, 7, 9, 12, and 19 and radio station WLW 700. TRANSFERS AND WITHDRAWALS A student planning to transfer or withdraw from East Clinton Schools must report such intentions to the office secretary. The secretary will direct the student in the steps to follow in order to withdraw from East Clinton Schools. This should be done a day or more before the student plans to leave so that proper arrangements can be made for returning books, obtaining grades, etc. VISITORS' PERMITS All visitors must report to the office upon entering the building. All visitors must secure a visitor’s pass from the office. We do encourage visits by parents. Students from other schools are not permitted to visit East Clinton. WORK PERMITS Work permit packets are available at the central office. The completed packet is to be returned to the central office in order for the actual work permit to be issued. This process will take several minutes, so please allow sufficient time for the process. Office hours are 7:30AM – 4:00PM, Monday through Friday. 27 ACCEPTABLE USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY FOR THE COMPUTER NETWORK OF THE East Clinton Local School District The East Clinton Local School District is pleased to make available to students, access to interconnected computer systems within the District and to the Internet, the world-wide network that provides various means of accessing significant educational materials and opportunities. In order for the School District to be able to continue to make its computer network and Internet access available, all students must take responsibility for appropriate and lawful use of this access. Students must understand that one student's misuse of the network and Internet access may jeopardize the ability of all students to enjoy such access. While the school's teachers and other staff will make reasonable efforts to supervise student use of network and Internet access, they must have student cooperation in exercising and promoting responsible use of this access. Technology can greatly enhance the instructional program, as well as the efficiency of the District. The Board recognizes that careful planning is essential to ensure the successful, equitable and cost-effective implementation of technology-based materials, equipment, systems and networks. Computers and use of the District network or online services support learning and enhance instruction, as well as assist in administration. Computer networks allow people to interact with many computers; the Internet allows people to interact with hundreds of thousands of networks. All computers are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. Failure to adhere to this policy and the guidelines below will result in the revocation of the user’s access privilege. Unacceptable uses of the computer/network include but are not limited to: 1. violating the conditions or State and Federal law dealing with students’ and students’ and employees’ rights to privacy, including unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information; 2. using profanity, obscenity or other language which may be offensive to another user or intended to harass, intimidate or bully other users; 3. accessing personal social networking websites for non- educational purposes; 4. reposting (forwarding) personal communication without the author’s prior consent; 5. copying commercial software and/or other material in violation of copyright law; 6. using the network for financial gain, for commercial activity or for any illegal activity; 7. “hacking” or gaining unauthorized access to other computers or computer computer systems, or attempting to gain such unauthorized access; accessing and/or viewing inappropriate material and 8. downloading freeware or shareware programs. The Superintendent/designee shall develop a plan to address the short- and long-term technology needs and provide for compatibility of resources among school sites, offices and other operations. As a basis for this plan, he/she shall examine and compare the costs and benefits of various resources and shall identify the blend of technologies and level of service necessary to support the instructional program. 28 Because access to online services provides connections to other computer systems located all over the world, users (and parents of users who are under 18 years old) must understand that neither the school nor the District can control the content of the information available on these systems. Some of the information available is controversial and sometimes offensive. The Board does not condone the use of such materials. Employees, students and parents of students must be aware that the privileges to access online services are withdrawn from users who do not respect the rights of others or who do not follow the rules and regulations established. A user’s agreement is signed to indicate the user’s acknowledgment of the risks and regulation for computer/online services use. The District has implemented technologyblocking software that protects students from web content that is obscene and harmful to minors. The district has also purchased monitoring devices which maintain a running log of Internet activity, recording which sites a particular user has visited. “Harmful to minors” is defined as any picture, image, graphic image file or other visual depictions that: 1. taken as a whole and with respect to minors appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex or excretion; 2. depicts, describes or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts or a lewd exhibition of genitals and 3. taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value as to minors. The District will educate minors about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response. The Superintendent/designee will develop a program to educate students on these issues. Annually a student who wishes to have a computer network and internet access during the school year must read the Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy and submit a properly signed agreement form. Students and staff are asked to sign a new agreement each year after reviewing the policies and regulations of the District. Netiquette. All users must abide by rules of network etiquette, which include the following: 1. Be polite. Use appropriate language. No swearing, vulgarities, suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or threatening language. 2. Avoid language and uses which may be offensive to other users. Don't use access to make, distribute, or redistribute jokes, stories, or other material which is not of an educational purpose or is based upon slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or sexual orientation. 3. Don't assume that a sender of e-mail is giving his or her permission for you to forward or redistribute the message to third parties or to give his/her e-mail address to third parties. This should only be done with permission or when you know that the individual would have no objection. 4. Be considerate when sending attachments with email (where this is permitted). Be sure that the file is of an educational purpose, is not too large to be accommodated by the recipient's system and is in a format which the recipient can open. 29 INTERNET SAFETY A. General Warning; Individual Responsibility of Parents and Users. All users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school-aged pupils. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use of the computer network and Internet and stay away from these sites. Parents of minors are the best guide to materials to shun. If a student finds that other users are visiting offensive or harmful sites, he or she should report such use to the person designated by the School. B. Personal Safety. Be safe. In using the computer network and Internet, do not reveal personal information such as your home address or telephone number. Do not use your real last name or any other information which might allow a person to locate you without first obtaining the permission of a supervising teacher. Do not arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone you "meet" on the computer network or Internet without your parent's permission (if you are under 18). Regardless of your age, you should never agree to meet a person you have only communicated with on the Internet in a secluded place or in a private setting. C. "Hacking" and Other Illegal Activities. It is a violation of this Policy to use the School’s computer network or the Internet to gain unauthorized access to other computers or computer systems, or to attempt to gain such unauthorized access. Any use which violates state or federal law relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, or which violates any other applicable law or municipal ordinance, is strictly prohibited. D. Confidentiality of Student Information. Personally identifiable information concerning students may not be disclosed or used in any way on the Internet without the permission of a parent or guardian or, if the student is 18 or over, the permission of the student himself/herself. Users should never give out private confidential information about themselves or others on the Internet, particularly credit card numbers and Social Security numbers. A supervising teacher or administrator may authorize the release of directory information, as defined by Ohio law, for internal administrative purposes or approved educational projects and activities. E. Active Restriction Measures. The School, either by itself or in combination with the Information Technology Center providing Internet access, will utilize filtering software or other technologies to prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to minors. The School will also monitor the online activities of students, through direct observation and/or technological means, to ensure that students are not accessing such depictions or any other material which is inappropriate for minors. Internet filtering software or other technology-based protection systems may be disabled by a supervising teacher or school administrator, as necessary, for purposes of bona fide research or other educational projects being conducted by students age 17 and older. The term “harmful to minors” is defined by the Communications Act of 1934 (47 USC Section 254 [h][7]), as meaning any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that: - taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion; - depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; - taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors. 30 PRIVACY Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for your education. The School District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of the School District and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials. FAILURE TO FOLLOW POLICY The user's use of the computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. A user who violates this Policy, shall at a minimum, have his or her access to the computer network and Internet terminated, which the School District may refuse to reinstate for the remainder of the student's enrollment in the School District. A user violates this Policy by his or her own action or by failing to report any violations by other users that come to the attention of the user. Further, a user violates this Policy if he or she permits another to use his or her account or password to access the computer network and Internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. The School District may also take other disciplinary action in such circumstances. UPDATES Users, and if appropriate, the user’s parents/guardians, may be asked from time to time to provide new or additional registration and account information or to sign a new Policy, for example, to reflect developments in the law or technology. Such information must be provided by the user (or his/her parents or guardian) or such new Policy must be signed if the user wishes to continue to receive service. If after you have provided your account information, some or all of the information changes, you must notify the person designated by the School to receive such information. (May2009) 31
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