Code of Conduct and Student Handbook 2012–2013 The Student Handbook is a general reference guide only and is designed to be in harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that it is not a complete statement of all policies, procedures, or rules that may be applicable in a given circumstance. Educating All Students for Success Board of Trustees Elizabeth Jones District 1: Northwest Dallas Lew Blackburn, Ph.D. President District 5: Oak Lawn, West Dallas, Wilmer, Hutchins, and portions of East Oak Cliff Adam Medrano First Vice President District 8: Love Field, Northwest Dallas, and Central Dallas Eric Cowan Second Vice President District 7: North Central Oak Cliff and portions of West Dallas Nancy Bingham Secretary District 4: Southeast Dallas, Seagoville, Balch Springs Mike Morath District 2: North and Near East Dallas Dan Micciche District 3: Northeast Dallas Carla Ranger District 6: Southwest Dallas Bernadette Nutall District 9: South Dallas and portions of Downtown Dallas, Pleasant Grove, Deep Ellum, Uptown, and East Dallas Mike Miles Superintendent of Schools The Dallas Independent School District, as an equal opportunity educational provider and employer, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law in educational programs or activities that it operates or in employment decisions. The district is required by Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, as well as board policy not to discriminate in such a manner. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) If you suspect discrimination please contact: Mary McCants, Title VII or Title IX, at (972) 925-3250; Daphne LaMontagne, Section 504, at (972) 581-4238; Marita Hawkins, Americans with Disabilities Act, at (972) 925-4287; or Employee Relations at (972) 925-4200. General questions about the district should be directed to Customer Service at (972) 925-5555. 3700 Ross Avenue • Dallas, TX 75204-5491 • (972) 925-3700 • www.dallasisd.org 08/21/12 Student Handbook Table of Contents SECTION I: REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS Parent Responsibilities.......................................................................................................................................1 Parent Involvement in Schools Receiving Title I Funds.......................................................................1 Parental Rights....................................................................................................................................................1 Accessing Student Records.................................................................................................................1 Accommodations for Children of Military Families................................................................................1 Asbestos Management Plan.................................................................................................................2 Bullying.....................................................................................................................…………………….2 Corporal Punishment.............................................................................................................................2 Directory Information.............................................................................................................................2 Displaying Student Artwork and Projects.............................................................................................. 2 Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges the U.S. and Texas Flags...........................................2 Excusing a Student from Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence................................2 Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student...................................................................2 Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights...........................................................................3 “Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities.................................................................................................3 Pest Management Plan.........................................................................................................................3 Public Information Requests.................................................................................................................3 Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education.................3 Removing a student temporarily From the Classroom.........................................................................3 Removing a Student from Human Growth, Development, and Sexuality Instruction...........................3 Removing a Student from Parenting and Paternity Awareness (p.a.p.a) Instruction............................4 Requesting Classroom Assignment for Multiple Birth Siblings.............................................................4 Requesting Limited or No Contact with a Student through Electronic Media.......................................4 Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct.............................................................................5 Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff.............................................................5 Reviewing Instructional Materials..........................................................................................................5 School Health Advisory Council............................................................................................................5 School Safety Transfers........................................................................................................................5 Student Records....................................................................................................................................5 Students Who Speak a Primary Language Other Than English...........................................................6 Parents of Students with Disabilities....................................................................................................................6 Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance............................................................................7 Request for use of a Service Animal.....................................................................................................7 §504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973..................................................................................................7 SECTION II: INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS Absences/Attendance..........................................................................................................................................8 Compulsory Attendance and Exemptions.............................................................................................8 Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance...............................................................................................8 Violation of Compulsory School Attendance Notice..............................................................................8 Attendance for Credit.............................................................................................................................9 Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness........................................................................................... 9 Driver’s License Attendance Verification...............................................................................................9 Military Dependents...............................................................................................................................9 Parent’s Note After an Absence........................................................................................................... 9 Temporary Absence.............................................................................................................................. 9 Unexcused Absences........................................................................................................................... 9 Academic Programs........................................................................................................................................... 10 Career and Technical Education.........................................................................................................................10 Career Pathways………………………………………………………………………………………........…10 Child Abuse and Domestic Violence..................................................................................................................10 Class Rank/Top Ten Percent/Highest Ranking Student....................................................................................11 Top Ten Percent....................................................................................................................................................................11 Valedictorian and Salutatorian (Highest Ranking Students)................................................................11 Class Schedules..................................................................................................................................................12 College Admission..............................................................................................................................................12 College Credit Courses.....................................................................................................................................12 Complaints and Concerns.................................................................................................................................13 Conduct..............................................................................................................................................................13 Applicability of School Rules................................................................................................................13 Disruptions of School Operations........................................................................................................13 Social Events.......................................................................................................................................13 Correspondence Courses.........................................................................................................................................13 Counseling.....................................................................................................................................................................................13 Course Credit.....................................................................................................................................................14 Credit by Exam ……………………………………………………………………...…………………………...……14 If a Student Has Taken the Course........................................................... ........................14 If a Student Has Not Taken the Course..............................................................................................15 Dating Violence...................................................................................................................................................15 Discrimination: Racial, Ethnic, Religious, Gender, Disability, National Origin, Sexual Orientation………...…..16 Harassment and Retaliation............................................................................................................................... 16 Discrimination.......................................................................................................................................................................16 Harassment: Including Racial, Ethnic, Religious, Gender, Disability, and Sexual Orientation................16 Sexual Harassment........................................................................................................................... 16 Retaliation...........................................................................................................................................16 Reporting Procedures..........................................................................................................................16 Investigation of Report.........................................................................................................................16 Distance Learning.............................................................................................................................................17 Distribution of Published Materials or Documents..............................................................................................17 School Materials............................................................................................................................... 17 Non-school Materials...from students................................................................................................... 17 Non-school Materials...from others....................................................................................................17 Dress and Grooming.......................................................................................................................................... 17 Electronic Devices and Technology Resources................................................................................................ 18 Possession and Use of Personal Telecommunications Devices, including Cellular Phone...............18 Possession and Use of Other Personal Electronic Devices................................................................19 Instructional Use of Personal Telecommunications and Other Electronic Devices............................19 Acceptable Use of District Technology Resources.................................................................................19 Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources.......................................................... 19 Extracurricular Activities, Clubs, and Organizations.......................................................................................... 19 Academic requirements ...........................................................................................................................20 Eligibility for All Participants......................................................................................................................20 Fees................................................................................................................................................................................................ 20 Fund-Raising.....................................................................................................................................................21 Gang Free Zones…………………………………………………………………………………………….…………21 Grade Classification....................................................................................................................................................................21 Grading.............................................................................................................................................................. 21 Graduation......................................................................................................................................................... 22 Requirements for a Diploma................................................................................................................22 Graduation or Certificate of Attendance for Students with Disabilities................................................22 Certificates of Coursework Completion..............................................................................................22 Graduation Expenses................................................................................................................................................................... 22 State Scholarships and Grants..................................................................................................................................................................... 22 Graduation Programs.........................................................................................................................22 Texas State Graduation Requirements.................................................................................................................23 Side-by-Side Graduation Programs and Requirements...................................................................... 24 Hazing.................................................................................................................................................................27 Health information and Requirements................................................................................................................28 Bacterial Meningitis............................................................................................................................28 Contagious Diseases/Condition..........................................................................................................28 Food Allergies......................................................................................................................................29 Health Screenings...............................................................................................................................29 Immunizations......................................................................................................................................29 Medication at School...........................................................................................................................29 Psychotropic Drugs..............................................................................................................................30 Tobacco Prohibited..............................................................................................................................30 Homeless Students.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 30 Homework.........................................................................................................................................................30 Law Enforcement Agencies............................................................................................................................... 30 Questioning of Students............................................................................................................................ 30 Students Taken into Custody.............................................................................................................. 30 Notification of Law Violations...............................................................................................................31 Limited English Proficient Students...................................................................................................................31 Makeup Work................................................................................................................................................... ..31 Makeup Work after an Absence................................................................................................................. .31 DAEP or In-school Suspension Makeup Work.............................................................................................................................31 Nondiscrimination Policy ………………………………………………………………………………………….…...31 Nontraditional Academic Programs....................................................................................................................32 J.L. Patton, Jr. Academic Center.........................................................................................................32 Early College Programs.......................................................................................................................32 Evening Academy................................................................................................................................32 Evening Academy..............................................................................................................................32 Gilliam Collegiate Academy................................................................................................................ 32 Maya Angelo High School..................................................................................................................32 Middle College High School.................................................................................................................33 Reconnection Centers.........................................................................................................................33 Trinidad Garza Early College .............................................................................................................33 PhysicalvActivity................................................................................................................................. 33 Physical Fitness Assessment..............................................................................................................33 Promotion and Retention....................................................................................................................................33 Psychological and Social Services.................................................................................................................... 34 Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment............................................................................................34 Release of Students from School.......................................................................................................................34 Report Cards and Conferences..........................................................................................................................35 Safety.................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Emergency Medical Treatment and Information..................................................................................35 Emergency School-Closing Information................................................................................................ 35 Drills: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies.................................................................................... 35 School Lunch Program.......................................................................................................................................35 Searches, Metal Detectors, and Video Cameras.............................................................................................. 35 Special Programs...............................................................................................................................................36 Standardized Testing.........................................................................................................................................36 STAAR(State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) ..........................................................36 End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments....................................................................................................37 Impact of STAAR/EOCs on Graduation Plans.....................................................................................37 TAKS(Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) ...........................................................................37 THEA (Texas Higher Education Assessment) ....................................................................................38 Steroids..............................................................................................................................................................38 Summer School/Extended Year Programs........................................................................................................38 Teen Pregnancy and Parenting Services......................................................................................................... 38 Textbooks, Electronic Textbooks, and Technological Equipment.................................................................... 39 Transfers Between District Schools...................................................................................................................39 Transportation..................................................................................................................................................................................... 40 Buses and Other School Vehicles................................................................................................................................ 40 School-Sponsored Trips.................................................................................................................................................... 40 Student Bus Riders Code of Conduct...............................................................................................40 Vandalism...........................................................................................................................................................41 Visitors to the School..........................................................................................................................................41 Vending Machines............................................................................................................................................. 41 Withdrawing from School...........................................................................................................................................................41 Glossary Contract/Acknowledgement Forms STUDENT HANDBOOK SECTION I REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS This section of the Dallas ISD Student Handbook includes several notices that the district is required to provide to you, as well as other information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent. PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES Every parent is a role model to their child for teaching and learning. When parents are involved in their child’s education, grades, attendance and behavior improves. Preparing every child for academic success is the goal for all district personnel. Dallas ISD recognizes parents in this partnership. As a parent in this partnership, you are expected to: Support school, district, and classroom rules for student behavior, dress code, and ensure that your children conduct themselves according to district standards. Provide current home address and home, work, and cell phone numbers to school staff for emergency purposes. Ensure child’s attendance at school as required by law and provide written note to explain absences and tardies. Provide the appropriate school personnel with any information that will affect your child’s ability to learn. Cooperate with the school nurse to obtain state-required immunizations. Follow procedures for administration of medications at school and take/keep your child at home when ill. Emphasize the importance of education and set high expectations for your child’s academic success. Make sure your child completes assignments and projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn. Create a learning environment at home where your child can read, study, and do homework. Monitor your child’s progress and encourage your child to attend school tutorials as needed. Discuss school assignments and report cards with your child. Request a conference with the teacher if your child receives a failing grade for the reporting period. If you would like to schedule a conference, call the school office for an appointment during the teacher’s conference period. Know what your child is taught and tested in every subject, every year. Stay informed of your child’s activities by attending parent conferences and meetings. Volunteer at your child’s school. 1 Read and discuss with your child the Student Code of Conduct handbook before signing and returning to the school. Parent Involvement in Schools Receiving Title I Funds Each Title I eligible campus will hold an annual meeting for parents in order to: Provide timely information concerning the school's participation in Title I, as well as explain the program and requirements, including parents’ right to be involved; Provide information regarding the curriculum, state and local assessments, and academic performance expectations; Jointly develop an agreed upon campus parent involvement policy, establishing the school’s expectations for parental involvement. The policy will be distributed to parents of all children participating in Title I, Part A programs. PARENTAL RIGHTS Accessing Student Records A parent is entitled to access all written records of the District concerning the parent’s child. These records include: attendance records, test scores, grades, disciplinary records, counseling records, psychological records, applications for admissions, health and immunization information, other medical records, teacher and counselor evaluations, reports of behavioral patterns, and state assessment instruments that have been administered to your child. [See Student Records] Accommodations for Children of Military Families Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district requirements, including immunization requirements; grade level, course, or educational program placement; eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities; and graduation requirements. In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his/her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district. Additional information may be found at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=7995 Asbestos Management Plan The district works diligently to maintain compliance with federal and state laws governing asbestos in school buildings. An asbestos management plan has been developed for each school and submitted to the Texas Department of State Health Services for approval. An updated management plan for the school is kept on campus and can be made available for inspection by parents, school personnel, and the public within five working days after a request is received. For additional information see policy CKA (LEGAL). Bullying Bullying is addressed in depth in the Student Code of Conduct. For disciplinary actions, the child will be subject to the provisions provided in the Student Code of Conduct If a student believes that he or she has experienced bullying or has witnessed bullying of another student, it is important for the student or parent to notify a teacher, counselor, principal, or another district employee as soon as possible. The administration will investigate any allegations of bullying and will take appropriate disciplinary action if an investigation indicates that bullying has occurred. Any retaliation against a student who reports an incident of bullying is prohibited. [Also see the Student Code of Conduct, School Safety Transfers, Hazing, and policy FFI (LOCAL)] Corporal Punishment District policy prohibits the use of punishment. [See policy FO (LOCAL).] corporal Directory Information The law permits the district to designate certain personally identifiable information about students as “directory information.” The district has designated the following categories of information as directory information: student name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in an officially recognized activity or sport, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, grade level, and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended. This “directory information” will be released to anyone who follows the procedures for requesting directory information. However, the parent or an eligible student may prevent the release of a student’s directory information. The written objection to the release of directory information shall be sent to the student’s principal within 15 school days after the annual notice is given concerning directory information. A “Student Directory Information” form should have been included in the student enrollment packet. If you did not receive one from your child’s 2 school and you wish to withhold information, please contact your principal. directory Displaying Student Artwork and Projects Teachers may display student’s work either in a classroom or on and off campus as recognition of student achievement. However, the district will obtain parental consent before displaying a student’s artwork, special projects, photographs taken by a student, and the like, either on the district’s web site, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication. Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags You may request that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. The request must be in writing. State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required minute of silence. Students may reflect, pray, or meditate, or engage in any silent activity that does not interfere with or distract another student during this time. [See EC (LEGAL)] Excusing a Student From Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence You may request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the Declaration of Independence. State law requires students in social studies classes in grades 3–12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week unless (1) you provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the district determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity. [See policy EHBK(LEGAL).] Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student You may grant or deny any written request from the district to make a video or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a video or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances: 1) when it is to be used for school safety, including the maintenance of order and discipline in common areas of the school or on school buses; 2) when it relates to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extracurricular activity; 3) when it relates to regular classroom instruction; or 4) when it relates to media coverage of the school. Obtaining Information Student Rights and Protecting Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns: Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent. Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or the student’s family. Sexual behavior or attitudes. Illegal, anti-social, demeaning behavior. self-incriminating, and Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents. Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program. You will be able to review the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For further information, see policy EF(LEGAL).] “Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities As a parent, you have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation in: Any survey concerning the protected information listed above, regardless of funding. School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information gathered from your child for the purpose of marketing the information, or otherwise distributing the information to others. Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student or of other students. [See policy EF.] As a parent, you may review any survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to your child. 3 Pest Management Plan The district is required to follow integrated pest management (IPM) procedures to control pests on school grounds. Although the district strives to use the safest and most effective methods to manage pests, including a variety of non-chemical control measures, pesticide use is sometimes necessary to maintain adequate pest control and ensure a safe, pest-free school environment. All pesticides used are registered for their intended use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and are applied only by certified pesticide applicators. Before treatment, except in an emergency, the schools shall ensure that the necessary signs and information for employees and parents of students are posted or made available 48 hours before application. All outdoor applications will be posted at the time of treatment, and signs will remain until it is safe to enter the area. For additional information, contact the school principal. Public Information Requests The Dallas ISD, as a local governmental entity, is subject to the requirements of the Texas Public Information Act. Information regarding public information requests and the procedures for making a request are posted on the district’s website, http://www.dallasisd.org/ by clicking the link “Public Information Requests” located at the bottom of the homepage or www.dallasisd.org/page/102/ Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education The district is required by federal law to comply with a request by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education for students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless parents have advised the district not to release their child’s information without prior written consent (See Directory Information above). Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom You may remove your child temporarily from the classroom if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the District and the Texas Education Agency. [EMB (Legal)] Removing a Student from Human Growth, Development, and Sexuality Instruction The district offers Human Growth, Development, and Sexuality instruction to students in grades 4, 5, 6–8, and 9-12. The school will provide a letter to parents describing the basic content of the district’s human sexuality instruction to be provided to the student and of the parent’s right to review the material, as well as the right to remove the student from any part of that instruction. State law requires that any instruction related to human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome must: Present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred choice of behavior in relationship to all sexual activity for unmarried persons of school age; Devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity than to any other behavior; Emphasize that abstinence is the only method that is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity; Direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases; and If included in the content of the curriculum, teach contraception and condom use in terms of human use reality rates instead of theoretical laboratory rates. In addition to the above requirements, the following points comprise a summary of the District’s curriculum regarding human sexuality instruction. The instruction must: Prohibit the distribution or dissemination of contraceptive devices in District facilities; Be delivered in grades 4-12 in a developmentally and age-appropriate manner and include the most current and scientifically accurate information regarding child and adolescent health issues; contraception, and accurate information on failure rates; and risk reduction of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV; and Include communication, goal-setting, decisionmaking, assertiveness, and refusal skills necessary to support a student’s ability to avoid, postpone, and abstain from risk-taking behaviors prior to, and into, adulthood. The Board shall select any instruction relating to human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) with the advice of the local school health advisory council. The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) assists the District in ensuring that local community values are reflected in the District’s health education instruction. 4 As a parent, you are entitled to review the curriculum materials. In addition, you may remove your child from any part of this instruction with no academic, disciplinary, or other penalties. You may also choose to become more involved with the development of curriculum used for this purpose by becoming a member of the District’s SHAC. For more information please consult EHAA (LEGAL, LOCAL). Removing a Student from Parenting and Paternity Awareness (p.a.p.a.) Instruction If your child is under 14 years of age, your permission is required for him or her to participate in the health education instructional unit that includes p.a.p.a. Teaching p.a.p.a. in health class and obtaining parent permission for students under 14 years of age conforms to the Texas Education Code, Section 28.002. You are invited to browse the curriculum videos, handouts, and goals on the Texas Attorney General’s webpage. Click on Child Support, then www.texasattorneygeneral.gov Requesting Classroom Multiple Birth Siblings p.a.p.a. Assignment at for If your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and campus, you may request that they be placed either in the same or in separate classrooms. Your written request must be submitted no later than the 14th day after the enrollment of your children. [See FDB (LEGAL).] Requesting Limited or No Contact with a Student through Electronic Media Electronic media includes all forms of social media, such as text messaging, instant messaging, electronic mail (e-mail), web logs (blogs), electronic forms (chat rooms), video-sharing Web sites, editorial comments posted on the Internet, and social network sites. Electronic media also includes all forms of telecommunication, such as landlines, cell phones, and Web-based applications. In accordance with administrative regulations, a certified or licensed employee, or any other employee designated in writing by the Superintendent of Schools or a campus principal, may use electronic media to communicate with currently enrolled students about matters within the scope of the employee’s professional responsibilities. All other employees are prohibited from using electronic media to communicate directly with students who are currently enrolled in the District. If you prefer that your child not receive any one-to-one electronic communications from a district employee, please submit a written request to the campus principal stating this preference. Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent, related to his or her child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) or expulsion. [See policy FO(LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.] Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff You may request information about your child’s teachers’ state qualifications, license status, degree major(s), and certification of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including fields of study. You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who provides services to your child. This information may be obtained by making a public information request. Directions for making a request are located at the district’s homepage www.dallasisd.org at the link “Public Information Requests. Reviewing Instructional Materials As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, library books, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child. Specific curriculum information is available on the district’s website or printed information may be obtained from the school. Also see “Removing a Student from Human Sexuality Instruction,” for additional information. School Health Advisory Committee This council serves in an advisory capacity to ensure that local community values are reflected in healthrelated curriculum and programs for the district. They do not have any legal responsibilities within the school system, and SHAC members must be approved by the Board of Trustees and comply with written by-laws of the organization. The duties of the SHAC range from recommending curriculum to developing strategies for integrating curriculum into a coordinated school health program encompassing school health services, counseling services, a safe and healthy school environment, recess recommendations, and employee wellness. [See also policies at BDF and EHAA.] Additional information regarding the district’s School Health Advisory Council is available from the Director of Health and Physical Education. 5 School Safety Transfers As a parent, you have a right: To request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been determined by the Superintendent or designee and the school principal to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus. See policy FDB (LEGAL). To request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense, as determined by state law, while at school or on school grounds. [See policy FDE (LEGAL).] To request the transfer of your child to another campus if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether that assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. [See policies FDD (LOCAL) and FDE (LEGAL) (LOCAL).] Transfers may be requested through the campus principal. Student Records Both federal and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and eligible students certain rights of privacy. Before disclosing any personally identifiable information from a student’s records, the district must verify the identity of the person, including a parent or the student, requesting the information. For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is 18 or older or who is attending an institution of postsecondary education. Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records. As a general rule, prior written consent must be obtained from the parent or eligible student to release student education records. Exceptions to this general rule include allowing access to: The parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless the school is given a copy of a court order terminating parental rights or the right to access a student’s education records. As soon as a student becomes 18, is emancipated by a court, or enrolls in a post-secondary institution, control of the records goes to the student. The parents may continue to have access to the records if the student is a dependent for tax purposes and under limited circumstances when there is a threat to the health and safety of the student or other individuals. District school officials who have a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. School officials would include trustees and employees, such as the superintendent, administrators, and principals; teachers, counselors, diagnosticians, and support staff; a person or company with whom the district has contracted or allowed to provide a particular service or function (such as an attorney, consultant, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or volunteer); a parent or student serving on a school committee; or a parent or student assisting a school official in the performance of his or her duties. A “legitimate educational interest” exists when the school official is working with the student; considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or an individualized education program for a student with disabilities; compiling statistical data; or investigating or evaluating programs. Authorized governmental agencies. Individuals granted access in response to a subpoena or court order. A school or institution of postsecondary education to which a student seeks or intends to enroll or in which he or she is already enrolled. The full list of exceptions may be found at policy FL (LEGAL). The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to student records under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) does not extend to all records. The term “education records” does not include: 1. Records created or received by the district after the individual is no longer a student in attendance and are not directly related to the individual’s attendance as a student. 2. Records made by district personnel that are kept in the sole possession of the maker, are used only as a personal memory aid, and are not accessible or revealed to anyone other than a temporary substitute for the maker of the record. Records maintained by a law enforcement unit of the district that were created by that law enforcement unit for the purpose of law enforcement. 3. Access to records not covered by FERPA is governed by the Texas Public Information Act. A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. 6 A request to correct a student’s record should be submitted to the principal. The request must clearly identify the part of the record that should be corrected and include an explanation of how the information in the record is inaccurate. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process found in policy FNG (LOCAL). The principal is the custodian of records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. Records of elementary students who have withdrawn during the current school year remain at the school. Records of elementary students who have withdrawn the previous year are maintained by Student Record Services located at Dallas ISD Administration Building, 3700 Ross Avenue. Records of all secondary students remain at the school last attended for five years after the year of their graduating class and are then transferred to Student Record Services. The district’s policy regarding student records found at FL (LOCAL) is available from the principal’s office or on the district’s web site at http://www.dallasisd.org/. Please note: Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the district is not in compliance with the federal laws regarding student records. A complaint may be mailed to: Family Policy Compliance Office U. S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5901 Students Who Speak a Primary Language Other than English A student may be eligible to receive specialized language support if his or her primary language is not English, and the student is identified as limited English proficient. If the student meets eligibility criteria, the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) will determine the types of services the student needs, including language accommodations related to classroom instruction, and local assessments. PARENTS OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her attendance zone, the parent or guardian may request that any other student residing in the household be transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus. [See policy FDB (LEGAL).] Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education Services If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the child’s counselor to learn about the district’s overall general education system of support services. This system links students to a variety of support options. Students having difficulty accessing the general education curriculum should be considered for academic or behavior support services that are available to all students, including a process based on Response to Intervention (RtI). The implementation of RtI has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of the district to meet the needs of all struggling students. At any time, a parent is entitled to request an initial evaluation to determine if their child qualifies as a child with a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if it will perform the evaluation. The parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent. If the district refuses the request to evaluate, the district provides the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice includes a statement that informs the parents of their rights if they disagree with the district. The district is required to give parents the Notice of Procedural Safeguards–Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities. Additional information regarding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is available from the school district in a companion document entitled A Guide to the Admission, Review, and Dismissal Process. The following web sites provide information to those who are seeking information and resources specific to students with disabilities and their families: Texas Project First, at http://www.texasprojectfirst.org and Partners Resource Network at http://www.partnerstx.org/howPRNhelps.html Parents may contact the Dallas ISD Special Education Department at 972-581-4100. 7 Request for the Use of a Service Animal Granting the use of a service animal shall be determined in accordance with policy FBA (LEGAL). §504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Students with disabilities who are not eligible for special education services may qualify for §504 accommodations. §504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination and assures that disabled students have educational opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to nondisabled students. Student Eligibility: 1. 2. 3. Currently has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, Has a record of such an impairment, or Is regarded as having such an impairment When parent(s) or district personnel believe that a student has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity and the student is in need of accommodations, a §504 referral may be initiated. Parents must be given Notice of §504 Evaluation and Parental Consent and §504 Parent/Student Rights in Identification, Evaluation and Placement. The district then conducts an evaluation and determines eligibility and any need for accommodations. A §504 evaluation consists of documentation of the condition and a review of relevant educational records needed to determine whether the condition creates a significant impairment in the school/academic setting. For additional information, contact your child’s counselor or call Daphne LaMontagne, the §504 coordinator, (972) 581-4238. STUDENT HANDBOOK SECTION II INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information on academics, school activities, and school operations and requirements. It is organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick-reference when there are questions about a specific school-related issue. Should you be unable to find information on a particular topic, please contact the school principal or your child’s counselor. absent without permission from school; from any class, or from required special programs, such as additional special or accelerated instruction assigned by a grade placement committee, will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to legal action. A complaint against the parent and/or student may be filed in court if the student: ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE Regular attendance is essential for a student to make the most of his or her education. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two areas of state law--one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit--are of special interest to students and parents. Is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period, and a complaint shall be filed if the student: Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year. Compulsory Attendance State law requires that a student age six and who has not yet reached 18 years old attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt. A student enrolled in prekindergarten or kindergarten is required to attend school each day of instruction. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her eighteenth birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year. If a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, the district may revoke the student’s enrollment for the remainder of the school year. The student’s presence on school property thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. State law requires a student to attend each school day for the entire period the program of instruction is provided. Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance State law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for the following absences: Religious holy days, including up to a total of two days for travel to/from the site of observation; Required court appearances; Activities related to obtaining citizenship and taking part in a U.S. naturalization oath ceremony; Students in grades 6-12 for sounding “Taps” at a military honors funeral; College visits of no more than two days during each of the student’s junior and senior years; Service as an election clerk; and Documented health-care appointments, including absences for recognized services for students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. A note from the health-care provider must be submitted upon the student’s return to campus. Attendance officers will file a complaint against the parent and/or student in court if the compulsory attendance law is violated. Exemptions from the law may be found in Policy FEA (LEGAL). State law also requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program when kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to such a program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading instrument. A student in grades 3-8 will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or her grade level and applicable subject area. A student Violation of Compulsory School Attendance Notice This serves as the district’s notice to parents that if the student is absent without an excuse for ten or more days, or parts of days in a six-month period, or three or more days or parts of a day in a four week period, the student and the student's parents are subject to prosecution. The fact that a parent did not receive the notice described above is not a defense to prosecution for 8 the parent's failure to require a child to attend school, nor for the student's failure to attend school. Military Dependents A student whose parent or legal guardian is an active duty member of the uniformed services and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting, shall be granted additional excused absences at the discretion of the Superintendent to visit with the student’s parent or legal guardian relative to such leave or deployment of the parent or guardian. Attendance for Credit To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered and earns a passing grade, may receive credit for the class if the student completes a plan, approved by the principal that provides for the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case is also required before the student receives credit for the class. Parent’s Note After an Absence To excuse legitimate student absences, including days or parts of a day resulting from a nurse sending the student home, a written excuse signed by the student’s parent must be given to the proper school authorities no later than three school days after the student returns to school, describing the reason for the absence. [See FEC (LOCAL).] The note shall be signed by the student’s parent or, if the student is 18 or older or is an emancipated minor, by the student. [See FEB (LOCAL).] If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed a plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate. [See policies at FEC.] The principal or appropriate designee may investigate any absence to verify extenuating circumstances. The student or parent may appeal the attendance committee’s decision to the Board of Trustees by filing a written request in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). Special Education Matters Students may be excused for special education assessment procedures and for special educationrelated services. The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive credit will depend on the number of instructional days and whether the class is for a full semester (secondary) or for a full year (most elementary classes). Temporary Absence When a student’s absence for personal illness exceeds five consecutive days or a total of ten days in a six-week grading period, the student may be required to present a statement from a physician or health clinic verifying the illness or other condition requiring the student’s absence from school. If the student has established a questionable pattern of attendance, a physician’s or clinic’s statement may be required after a single day’s absence. [See FEC(LOCAL).] A student may be excused for temporary absence resulting from any cause acceptable to the teacher, principal, or superintendent of the school in which the child is enrolled. To excuse legitimate student absences, the principal requires a written excuse signed by the student's parent. (See Parent’s Note After an Absence.) Excused absences are not counted when determining the number of absences that trigger a referral or complaint for failure to comply with the compulsory attendance requirement. Excused absences are counted in determining whether a student is in compliance with the attendance requirements for class credit. Driver’s License Attendance Verification Unexcused Absences For a student between the ages of 16 and 18 to obtain a driver’s license, written parental permission must be provided for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to access the student’s attendance records and, in certain circumstances, for a school administrator to provide the student’s attendance information to DPS. Absences not eligible to be excused and absences for which a written excuse is not received within three school days shall be counted as unexcused absences. Students who are absent from school for the following reasons are not given an excused absence: Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness Aptitude and achievement testing by outside agencies Truancy 9 Non-school instruction Career Pathways Vacations Career pathways are a way for students to plan their four-year high school program by selecting electives that allow them to explore careers that interest them. Career pathways are grouped because people in those careers may share the same interests, talents, and abilities. Within a cluster there are careers and jobs that require different levels of educational preparation. Non-school club, youth, or other organization’s activities ACADEMIC PROGRAMS The district offers a variety of academic programs, including those from the core, enrichment, and career/technical curricula, as well as a number of special programs. The school counselor provides students and parents information regarding the academic programs to prepare for higher education and career choices. (See policies at EIF.) Career pathways are for all students. A career pathway choice does not have to be permanent. Skyline Career Development Center and all magnet schools arrange the students’ four-year high school course of study in a career path (or cluster). Eventually, all high schools will have a selection of career pathways with a coherent sequence of planned electives. Until then, comprehensive high schools assist students by encouraging them to select electives that match their career objectives. CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) PROGRAMS Each public school student shall master the basic skills and knowledge necessary for managing the dual roles of family member and wage earner and for having the option of gaining entry-level employment in a high-skill, high-wage job or continuing the student's education at the post-secondary level. The district offers career and technical education programs that support student career pathways to ensure that students have the opportunity to identify the relationship between the skills taught in the classroom and the skills required for the workforce. Admission to these programs is based on student interest and program availability. Students interested in programs not offered on their high school campus may apply for programs on other campuses. Information and application procedures can be obtained from the campus counselor. The Dallas ISD takes steps to ensure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and career/technical preparation programs. The following career clusters are the framework of Achieve Texas for Dallas students: Agriculture, Food and Natural Sciences Hospitality and Tourism Arts, Audiovisual Technology and Communications Information Technology Architecture and Construction Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security Business, Management and Administration Manufacturing Education and Training Marketing, Sales and Service Finance Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics Government and Public Administration Transportation, Logistics, and Distribution Health Science and Human Services at http://www.dallasisd.org/ and selecting Compliance Division from the menu list. A brochure in both English and Spanish can be downloaded from the Child Abuse/Domestic Violence Prevention section of that site. CHILD ABUSE AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION The district has established a plan for addressing child sexual abuse and other maltreatment of children which may be accessed through reviewing Board Policies FFG (Legal, Local, Regulations, and Forms/Exhibits) found at The safety and well-being of all students is paramount to a successful educational experience. When an employee has cause to believe that a student has been or may be abused or neglected, that person is required to make an oral report immediately to the district’s Child Abuse/Domestic Violence Prevention Office and Child Protective http://pol.tasb.org/Home/index/361 Additional information may also be found on the district’s website by selecting the “Departments” tab 10 Services or the Dallas Police Department. If an allegation is made against an employee of the district, it should be reported to the Dallas ISD Police and Security Services in lieu of the Dallas Police Department. English I class for the fall semester. Since English is a regular education course, the student earns 644 points (92 x 7 = 644) for the semester class. Rank is calculated at the end of each semester beginning with the first semester of the junior year. The first calculation is based on the highest 15 credits. At the end of the junior year, rank is calculated based on the highest 18 credits. First semester senior rank is calculated on the highest 21 credits and the final rank is calculated on the highest 24 credits. If a parent has cause to believe that a child has been or may be abused or neglected at school, the parent shall immediately notify the principal at the school and make an oral report to Child Protective Services at 1 (800) 252-5400 or the Dallas Police Department (911). A parent may also call the district’s Child Abuse/Domestic Violence Prevention Office at (972) 502-4180 for assistance. Top Ten Percent: College and University Admissions For two school years following graduation, a district student who graduates in the top ten percent of his or her class, or the top eight percent for admission to the University of Texas at Austin, is eligible for automatic admission into four-year public universities and colleges in Texas if the student: All district staff are trained annually in child abuse awareness and reporting procedures. Programs are also available for students and parents to increase awareness of child abuse. For additional information, contact the Child Abuse Office at (972) 502-4182. Completes the Recommended or Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program; or CLASS RANK / TOP TEN PERCENT / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT Satisfies the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks by scoring 22 out of 36 or earns at least a 1500 out of 2400 on the SAT. Rank in class is based on a weighted grading system. Eligible courses for the computation of rank include all courses taken for state credit in grades 912. Courses taken for state credit in summer or evening school, as well as approved correspondence and college courses taken for high school credit will count toward class rank. The University of Texas at Austin may limit the number of students automatically admitted to 75 percent of the university’s enrollment capacity for incoming freshmen. Credit earned through credit-by-exam, with or without prior instruction, does not count toward rank in class. Rank points are awarded based on semester grades. For each student, rank points for each semester course are sorted in descending order. Rank in class is computed by totaling the weighted rank points of eligible courses representing the highest twenty-four credits taken and earned in grades 9-12. See policy EIC (LOCAL) for details. Students and parents should contact the counselor for further information about automatic admissions, the application process, and deadlines. Valedictorian and Ranking Students) Course weights are assigned to Texas Education Agency approved courses as follows: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate 9 Pre-AP /Pre-IB/Dual Credit * 8 Regular Education/ESOL 7 Remedial Education/Special Education 6 Local credit courses 0 Should a college or university adopt an admissions policy that automatically accepts the top 25 percent of a graduating class, the provisions above will also apply to a student ranked in the top 25 percent of his or her class. Salutatorian (Highest Students must be enrolled in their graduating school the last four semesters prior to graduation, exclusive of summer and evening school, in order to be considered for valedictorian or salutatorian. Valedictorian and salutatorian shall be those eligible students completing the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program with the highest and second highest class rank in each high school. The graduating school must award every six weeks grade in the final four semesters. Students entering after the third week of the first six weeks of the initial semester will not be eligible for consideration. [Also, see EIC LOCAL.] Below 70 in any course * Only applies to transferable courses as indicated on the Dual Credit matrices. To obtain rank points, the semester grade in each course is multiplied by the course weight. For example, a student earns a grade of 92 in an 11 point average and performance on standardized tests. CLASS SCHEDULES Many hours go into the planning of student and school schedules. Course offerings and teacher assignments are based on the choices students make during spring scheduling each year. Nevertheless, some schedule adjustments are necessary due to courses having been taken in summer school, omission of a required course, course conflicts, or other circumstances that warrant a schedule change. The school will make every effort to place each student in the classes indicated on the student’s choice sheet. Student requests for changes other than meeting graduation requirements or correcting an error will not be approved, and no schedule change will be made after the first ten days of each semester except at the direction of the principal. To Qualify For Automatic Admission an Applicant Must: 1. Submit an application before the deadline established by the college or university to which the student seeks admission; and 2. Provide a high school transcript or diploma that indicates whether the student has satisfied or is on schedule to satisfy the requirements of the Recommended High School Program (RHSP) or the Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP) COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES Students in the Dallas ISD are offered several opportunities to earn college credit for courses taken while still in high school. Opportunities include the following: In accordance with State Board curriculum requirements, students in grades 9-12 shall be scheduled for a full day of classes, including a minimum of 2 1/2 graduation units or five creditearning courses per semester, plus PE or equivalent and Heath. 1. The College Board Advanced Placement Program: Students may enroll in a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses during grades 9-12. Each spring, students are encouraged to take the AP examination for the course(s) taken during the year. Colleges and universities award credit based on the score earned on each exam. Scores required for credit vary from college to college. 2. Dual-credit Programs: A variety of dual-credit college courses are available to eligible high school students through the Dallas County Community College District (DCCCD). High schools, College and Career Readiness dual credit coordinators and dual credit coordinators work collaboratively to determine which courses will be offered on the high school campus. Not all courses are available on all campuses. Some high school courses require the completion of two (or more) college courses in order for high school credit to be awarded. 3. Tech Prep Programs: Tech Prep is a partnership between Dallas ISD and DCCCD that provides qualified junior and senior students the opportunity to earn high school credit NOW and college credit LATER. A high school graduate who earned grades of ‘B' or better in an approved high school course sequence and enrolls at a DCCCD campus within fifteen (15) months of high school graduation may receive college credit for the high school courses. 4. Other Programs: Students may also receive college credit through the district’s International With parent approval and signature, seniors who have passed all sections of the exit exam and will complete graduation requirements with less than five credit earning courses per semester may modify their course schedule, but to no less than 1/2 day of instruction daily, under the following conditions: 1. The student is enrolled in post-secondary courses being taken on a college/technical school campus (courses may or may not be for dual credit), or 2. The student is employed for more than 20 hours per week, or 3. The student has parenting responsibilities, or 4. Other circumstances as approved by the principal, and 5. The student arrives late or leaves early and does not remain on campus when other students are in classes. Courses are to be scheduled consecutively, without allowing students to leave and return to the campus on the same day. [See EED (LOCAL).] COLLEGE ADMISSION Colleges and universities are required to admit an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student if the applicant is the child of a public servant who was killed or sustained a fatal injury in the line of duty and meets the minimum requirements, if any, established by the governing board of the college or university for high school or prior college-level grade 12 Baccalaureate program or through programs offered at colleges or universities accredited by one of the regional higher education accrediting associations, such as Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. For students to be eligible to enroll and be awarded credit toward state graduation requirements, a student shall have the approval of the high school principal or other school official designated by the district. The course(s) for which credit is awarded must provide academic instruction beyond or in greater depth than the essential knowledge and skills for the equivalent high school course. 5. Interference with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building. Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly. Use of force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during an assembly. Interference with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to district property. Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving district property without authorization from an administrator. Disruption of classes or other school activities while on district property or on public property that is within 500 feet of district property. Class disruption includes making loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to prevent a student from attending, a required class or activity; and entering a classroom without authorization and disrupting the activity with loud or profane language or any misconduct. For additional information, please contact your child’s counselor or call the office of College and Career Readiness, (972) 925-5520. COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS Usually student or parent concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference with the teacher or principal. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the district has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG (LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the principal’s office or on the district’s website at http://www.dallasisd.org Interference with the transportation of students in vehicles owned or operated by the district. [See policy FNCI (LEGAL) and GKA (LEGAL).] Social Events In general, the student or parent should submit a written complaint and request a conference with the campus principal. If the concern is not resolved, a request for a conference should be sent to the principal’s supervisor. Until resolved, the district provides for the complaint to be forwarded through the administration and finally presented to the Board of Trustees. The rules of good conduct and grooming will be observed at school social events held outside the regular school day. Guests are expected to observe the same rules as students, and a student inviting a guest will share responsibility for the conduct of the guest CORRESPONDENCE COURSES The district permits high school students to take correspondence courses—by mail or via the Internet—for credit toward high school graduation. All high school students are eligible to take correspondence courses and earn credit toward graduation. Prior to enrollment in correspondence courses, students must make a written request to the principal or designee for approval to enroll in the course. Students will not be awarded credit toward graduation if approval was not granted prior to enrollment. CONDUCT Applicability of School Rules As required by law, the board has adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defines standards of acceptable behavior—both on and off campus—and consequences for violation of these standards. A copy of the Code of Conduct is printed within this manual. Disruptions of School Operations Disruptions of school operations are not tolerated and may constitute a misdemeanor offense. As identified by law, disruptions include the following: COUNSELING The school counselor is available to assist students and their families with a wide range of academic and personal concerns, including areas such as academic, career, and college planning; academic success; social, family, or emotional issues; or substance abuse. The school counselor coordinates Interference with the movement of people at an exit, entrance, or hallway of a district building without authorization from an administrator. 13 planning, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive developmental guidance program to serve the needs of all students as well as address special needs of students. The program consists of the following: form of child abuse or endangerment whether to self or others. All materials used in the counseling program are available during school hours for parents to review. If parents/guardians have any questions regarding counseling services or programs in the school, they may call their child’s counselor or the school principal. [For more information, refer to Policies EJ and FFEA.] Presenting classroom guidance lessons to help students develop their full educational potential Counseling and referral services for any student whose immediate personal concerns or problems put the student's continued educational, career, personal, or social development at risk Guiding students as they plan, monitor, and manage their own academic, career, personal, and social development Supporting the efforts of teachers, staff, parents, and other members of the community in promoting students’ educational, career, personal, and social development COURSE CREDIT A student in grades 9-12 will earn credit for a course only if the final grade is 70 or above. For a twosemester (1 credit) course, the student’s grades from both semesters will be averaged and credit will be awarded if the combined average is 70 or above. Should the student’s combined average be less than 70, the student will be required to retake the semester(s) failed. Each counselor at an elementary or middle school shall advise students and their parents or guardians regarding the importance of higher education, coursework designed to prepare students for higher education, and financial aid availability and requirements. First time ninth graders in 2011-2012 will also have the End of Course Assessment count 15% towards their final grade for credit. The district is in the process of establishing procedures for awarding credit based on results of the 15% End of Course. CREDIT BY EXAM During the first school year a student is enrolled in high school, and again during a student’s senior year, a counselor shall provide information about higher education to the student and the student’s parent or guardian. The information must include the importance of higher education, financial aid eligibility and application processes, automatic admission, and the availability of programs under which a student may earn college credit. If a Student Has Taken the Course Credit by Examination (CBE) is a means by which a Dallas ISD student in grades 7-12, who has received prior instruction in a course but not attained a passing grade, may take a test to demonstrate mastery of the course. Parent approval is required. On recommendation of the principal, or designee, or attendance review committee, a student who has excessive absences may be permitted to earn or regain a passing semester score through credit by examination if a score of 70 or above is attained. In grades 9-12, CBE scores do not count toward rank or GPA. With administrative approval, CBE may also be used to attain course credit for special circumstances. The following students may apply for CBE through the school counselor when: At the beginning of grades 10 and 11, a counselor shall explain the requirements of automatic admission to higher education institutions to each student who has a grade point average in the top 25 percent of the student’s high school class. To plan for the future, each student should work closely with the counselor in order to enroll in courses that best prepare him or her for attendance at a college, university, or other type of advanced education. The student is enrolling from a nonaccredited school (See FD); The counseling relationship is a professional relationship and counselors have a professional code of ethics. There are times when it is necessary for counselors to confer with other school professionals regarding a particular student’s problem to best serve that student. To the extent possible under legal and ethical guidelines, the counselor protects the privacy rights of students and their families. Counselors are required by state law and their professional code of ethics to report any The student has failed a subject or course; The student has earned a passing grade in a subject or course but has failed to earn credit because of excessive absences (See FEC); or The student has completed all or nearly all of the instruction required for a course, but has not received a semester grade due to special circumstances. 14 Prior to offering a student an opportunity to demonstrate mastery or earn credit by this method, an appropriate District employee shall review the student’s educational records to determine whether the student has had prior instruction in the subject or course. Distance Education. EFA test administration will be coordinated by Local Assessment and examinations will be given to students at no cost. Students scoring 90 percent or above on examinations shall be accelerated and/or receive appropriate credit. Written approval for the acceleration of students scoring at 90 percent or above will be obtained from parents on the application form. A student in elementary school will accelerate to the next grade level if the student scores at least 90 on each exam in the subject areas of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The implications of having students accelerate as a result of the exams should be considered by parents, as well as by the student, prior to applying for testing. Counselors should submit required application(s) and enrollment form(s) to Local Assessment. Check with your school counselor for more information. Specific test study guides are available through the Texas Tech website. See EHDC (LOCAL). Students who have been offered a free and appropriate education and failed a course will be required to pay the necessary fee(s) for CBE. The fee shall consist of the cost of the examination and may include an administration fee for examinations given after school or on Saturdays. [See Policies at EHDB.] CBE scheduling and test administration is coordinated by school personnel with principal approval throughout the school year. The Office of Local Assessment will coordinate CBE administration during the summer only for students that schools were unable to schedule during the school year. Required application(s), fees, and/or enrollment form(s) must be submitted to Local Assessment for summer test administration by May 3, 2013. Testing will be scheduled within the month of June 2013 http://www.depts.ttu.edu/ode/cbereview/HSCBE.php Promotion/reclassification for secondary students will be based on the standards in effect for the student’s grade level. Scores are not counted toward a high school student’s grade point average (GPA) or rank in class (RC). Credit by examination cannot be used to gain eligibility for participation in extracurricular activities. If a Student Has Not Taken the Course Examinations for acceleration are offered for students having no prior instruction; therefore, the Credit by examinations for acceleration (CEFA) are district is not obligated to furnish textbooks, study means by which high-achieving students may “test guides, tutoring, or other instructional aids to out” of a grade level or particular courses. Students students registering for the examinations. may be accelerated in any academic course for which tests are available through Texas Tech University and CBE APPLICATION DEADLINES 2012-2013 TEST WINDOW DATES September 21, 2012(Grades 9-12) October 29 – November 30, 2012(Grades 9-12) February 8, 2013 (Grades 9-12) March 25 – April 26, 2013(Grades 9-12) May 3, 2013 (Grades K-12) June 10-14, 2013 (Grades K-8) June 17-21, 2013 (Grades 9-12) Specific examination dates will be scheduled within the testing windows and are subject to change. performance. Any student who believes that he or she has experienced dating violence should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal or other district employee. (See additional information in the following section regarding retaliation, reporting procedures, and investigation of reports.) DATING VIOLENCE Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past dating relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control the other person. This is considered harassment if it is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic The Child Abuse/Domestic Violence Prevention Office provides training to enhance awareness of dating violence for secondary education students, district staff and parents. For more information, contact the Child Abuse/Domestic Violence Prevention Office at (972) 502-4182. 15 nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact. DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT; RACIAL, ETHNIC, RELIGIOUS, GENDER, GENDER IDENTITY, GENDER EXPRESSION, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, DISABILITY, AND NATIONAL ORIGIN; AND RETALIATION Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact that is not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, romantic or inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and district employees are prohibited, even if consensual. Discrimination Discrimination is defined as any conduct directed at a student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law that negatively affects the student. Harassment: Including Racial, Ethnic, Religious, Disability, Gender, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, and Sexual Orientation Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect, to avoid behaviors known to be offensive, and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect. The district expressly prohibits racial, ethnic, religious, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation harassment of its students, employees, and those who seek to join the campus community in any capacity or those who interface with the district (i.e., citizens, parents, vendors). Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to, threatening or intimidating conduct; verbal, written, electronic, or physical conduct; and any other demonstrative actions based on race, color, ethnic origin, nationality, religious preference, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation that has the purpose or effect of creating a hostile, intimidating, or offensive learning environment and substantially interfering with the learning environment. Sexual Harassment Students and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with the teacher, the principal, or designee. Students, parents, and/or a student’s representative may contact the principal, counselor, Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Prevention Office, or designee regarding available counseling as a result of harassment Retaliation Retaliation against a person, who makes a good faith report of dating violence, discrimination, or harassment, is prohibited. Retaliation against a person who is participating in an investigation of alleged dating violence, discrimination, or harassment is also prohibited. A person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a district investigation, however, may be subject to appropriate discipline. Reporting Procedures Any student who believes that he or she has experienced harassment or retaliation should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal or other district employee. All allegations of harassment involving a student shall be reported to a teacher or principal. The discipline guidelines are located in the Student Code of Conduct. No procedure in district policy shall have the effect of requiring the student alleging harassment to bring the matter to the person who is the subject of the complaint. Should the complaint be against a district administrator, the complaint should be filed with the next level of authority. Investigation of Report All students are prohibited from engaging in offensive verbal, written, electronic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward another student. This prohibition applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or other intimidating sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors that the other student regards as offensive or provocative. District officials shall promptly investigate all allegations of dating violence; racial, ethnic, religious, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or sexual harassment; discrimination; and retaliation. Action as deemed appropriate pursuant to district policy will be taken. Filing allegations without substantive cause is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action. Any person who files a false claim may be subject to any and all available State Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in 16 and district penalties. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS School Materials DISTANCE LEARNING Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with the prior approval of the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school newsletters, posters, brochures, flyers, etc. All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal. Distance learning is offered for students when specialized learning needs can be met most effectively through such learning. Distance learning opportunities may include, but are not limited to, correspondence courses, interactive video conferencing, online courses, and web-enhanced features available to support traditional face-to-face courses. Nonschool Materials...from students Students must obtain prior approval from the principal or designee before posting, circulating, or distributing written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school. The district is in the process of establishing procedures governing the use of distance learning. All district approved electronic distance learning courses are designated as eDISD courses and must comply with the policies, protocols, and procedures in policy and the electronic course handbook. These courses encompass the state-required essential knowledge and skills but are taught through multiple technologies and alternative methodologies such as mail, satellite, Internet, video-conferencing, and instructional television. To be considered, any nonschool material must include the name of the sponsoring person or organization. The decision regarding approval will be made in two school days. A student may appeal a principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL). Any student who posts nonschool material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action. The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) has been established as one method of distance learning. A student has the option, with certain limitations, to enroll in a course offered through the TxVSN to earn course credit for graduation. In limited circumstances, a student in grade 8 may also be eligible to enroll in a course through the TxVSN. Depending on the course in which a student enrolls, the course may be subject to the “no pass, no play” rules. Nonschool Materials...from others Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the district or by a districtaffiliated, school-support organization will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any district premises by any district employee or by persons or groups not associated with the district, except as permitted by policies at GKDA. Contact the principal for specific guidelines. For additional information, see EHDE (LOCAL). DRESS AND GROOMING Grades Pre-K - 8 The district requires all students prekindergarten–grade 8 to wear a school uniform unless the parent or guardian has filed an objection as provided in FNCA(LEGAL) and (REGULATION). All clothing must adhere to the standards set out below. APPROPRIATE ATTIRE FOR PRE-K – GRADE 8 STUDENTS Item Color Style Other Slacks and Pants Khaki, navy blue, or black, in a solid, single color. Pleated or flat front, full length, appropriately fastened at the waist. Pants with loops require belts. Material may be cotton, canvas, corduroy, linen, polyester, or twill. 17 Tops All pre-k–grade 8 students shall wear white shirts and/or one additional solid color top as determined by the campus. Undershirts must be white or match the color of the top. Shirts and blouses must have short or long sleeves with button down or straight collars. Turtleneck and polo styles are permitted. Skirts and Jumpers Khaki, navy blue or black, in a single, solid color. Skirt must be at least knee length. Shorts and Capris Khaki, navy blue, or black, in a solid, single color. Must be at least knee length. Jackets, Cardigans, and Sweaters Should match an accepted uniform color. All must be worn over a collared shirt, turtleneck, or polo style top. All tops must be worn tucked inside pants. Jackets for middle school students cannot have hoods. Footwear District school logos are permitted and are not limited in size. (All districtissued school jackets are permitted.) Athletic shoes, loafers, dress shoes, or other closed-toed/closed-heel shoes. Mules described as closed-toed and openheel are appropriate. Grades 9-12 ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES Principals, working in consultation with the site-based decision-making committee, Parent Teacher Association, and administrative staff, are authorized to implement mandatory uniforms for their individual campus provided they comply with the 90-day rules and the exemption guidelines outlined in FNCA (LEGAL). See policies at CQ. Possession and Use of Telecommunications Devices, Cellular Phones All grades The use of cellular phones or any device capable of capturing images is strictly prohibited in locker rooms or restroom areas while at school or at a schoolrelated or school-sponsored event. Deviations or exceptions to dress code policy must relate to the curriculum of the specific class, i.e., physical education, JROTC, etc. Whether or not a student is dressed appropriately or properly groomed shall be left to the discretion of the principal or his/her designee. If a student uses a cellular phone without authorization during the school day, the device will be confiscated. The cellular phone may be picked up from the principal’s office for a fee of $5 to $15, depending on the number of times it has been confiscated. Student complaints regarding appropriate attire and grooming for religious and/or philosophical reasons shall follow the complaint procedures outlined in See Complaints Personal Including For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess personal cellular phones; however, these devices must remain turned off during instructional class time, including all testing, unless they are being used for approved instructional purposes. A student must have approval to possess other telecommunication devices such as netbooks, laptops, tablets, or other personal computers. In high school, the length of dresses, skirts, and shorts shall be no shorter than “finger-tip length” with arms in normal position, i.e., arms hanging naturally, as student is standing straight and upright. Each high school will inform students and parents of appropriate dress and grooming requirements. FNCA(REGULATION). Concerns, p.12. Trademarks (logos), if any, must be one inch or less. District school logos are permitted and are not limited in size. and Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved by the student or the student’s parents will be disposed of after the notice required by law. (See policy FNCE.) 18 the district’s network systems and use of district equipment, is restricted to approved purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of these district resources. Violations of the user may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action. In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a student’s personal telecommunications device may be searched by authorized personnel. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunication devices. Students and their parents should be aware that student access and use of the district network is monitored by district staff. All Internet access is filtered in accordance with regulations of No Child Left Behind and the Children’s Internet Protection Act. Additional information regarding such filtering can be found on-line at: Possession and Use of Other Personal Electronic Devices Except as described below, students are not permitted to possess or use personal electronic devices such as MP3 players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, games, ereaders, or other electronic devices at school, unless prior permission has been obtained. Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items. http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cipa.htm. Efforts to bypass the district’s filter or engage in unauthorized acts may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action. (For additional information, see policies at CQ.) Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, a student’s personal electronic device may be searched by authorized personnel. Students are prohibited from possessing, sending, forwarding, posting, accessing, or displaying electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition also apples to conduct on or off school property, regardless of whether the equipment used to send such messages is district or personally owned, if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment. Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, possessing, or sharing obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or other content, commonly referred to as “sexting,” will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct and may, in certain circumstances, be reported to law enforcement. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device. Instructional Use of Personal Telecommunications and Other Electronic Devices In some cases, students may find it beneficial or might be encouraged to use personal telecommunications or other personal electronic devices for instructional purposes while on campus. Students must obtain prior approval before using personal telecommunications or other personal electronic devices for instructional use. Students must also sign a user agreement that contains applicable rules for use (separate from this handbook). When students are not using the devices for approved instructional purposes, all devices must be turned off during instructional class time. Violations of the user agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS Participation in school-sponsored activities is an excellent way for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and build strong friendships with other students; participation, however, is a privilege, not a right. Eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law and the rules of the University Interscholastic League (UIL)—a statewide association overseeing interdistrict competition. If a student is involved in an academic, athletic, or music activity governed by UIL, the student and parent are expected to know and follow all rules of the UIL organization. (See http://www.uiltexas.org for additional information.) Acceptable Use of District Technology Resources To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, the district has made an investment in the use of district-owned technology resources for instructional purposes; specific resources may be issued individually to students. Use of these technological resources, which include 19 Academic Requirements (No Pass/No Play) UIL participants are eligible to participate in contests during the first six weeks of the school year provided the following standards have been met: A student regains eligibility after the sevencalendar-day waiting period has ended following a grading period or the three- school-week evaluation period when the principal and teachers determine that the student has earned a passing grade (70 or above) in all classes or a grade of 60 or higher in honors courses (previously identified). Students beginning grade nine and below must have been promoted from the previous grade prior to the beginning of the current school year. A student is allowed in a school year up to 10 absences not related to post-district competition, a maximum of 5. Students beginning their second year of high school must have earned five credits which count toward state high school graduation requirements. Absences for post-district competition prior to state, and a maximum of 2 absences for state competition. All extracurricular activities and public performances, whether UIL activities or other activities approved by the board, are subject to these restrictions. The following requirements apply to all extracurricular activities. Students beginning their third year of high school either must have earned a total of 10 credits which count toward high school graduation credits or have earned a total of five credits which count toward high school graduation requirements during the 12 months preceding the first day of the current school year. An absence for participation in an activity that has not been approved will receive an unexcused absence. Please note: Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, cheerleading, drill teams, and athletic teams must follow all eligibility requirements (No Pass No Play) and may establish standards of behavior—including consequences for misbehavior—that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization’s standards of behavior. [For further information, see policies at FM and FO.] Students beginning their fourth year of high school either must have earned a total of 15 credits which count toward state high school graduation credits or have earned a total of five credits which count toward state high school graduation requirements during the 12 months preceding the first day of the current school year. Eligibility for All Extracurricular Participants After the First Six Weeks of the School Year FEES A student who receives, at the end of any grading period (after the first six weeks of the school year), a grade below 70 in any class may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks. Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including: Students enrolled in honors courses (such as Advanced Placement (AP), PreAP, International Baccalaureate course or dual credit course) must have a grade of 60 or higher at the end of any grading period for eligibility purposes only. If a student makes below a 60 in an honors class, at the end of a grading period, they may submit an application as a waiver to maintain their eligibility if approved (EIA Regulation). Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities Security deposits A student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the individualized education program (IEP) may not participate for at least three school weeks. Personal physical education equipment and apparel and athletic Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc. An ineligible student may practice or rehearse. 20 Voluntarily insurance purchased student GANG-FREE ZONES accident Certain criminal offenses, including those involving organized criminal activity such as gang related crimes, will be enhanced to the next highest category of offense if they are committed in a gangfree zone. For purposes of the district, a gang-free zone includes a school bus and a location in, on, or within 1000 feet of any district-owned or leased property or campus playground. Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the district Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student Parking fees and student identification cards GRADE CLASSIFICATION Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books See Promotion and Retention. GRADING Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require use of facilities not available on district premises Guidelines, Report Cards, and Progress Reports Summer school for courses that are offered tuition-free during the regular school year Teachers follow grading guidelines that have been approved by the superintendent and are designed to reflect each student’s academic achievement for the grading period, semester, or course. A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student who lives within two miles of the school Report cards are issued at the end of every six weeks grading period. Teachers send interim progress reports to parents every three weeks if a student’s performance in any subject or class is below 70 or whose average is deemed borderline according to district guidelines. A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an educational program outside of regular school hours for a student who has lost credit because of absences and whose parent chooses the program in order for the student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement. The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a district-provided request form. To ensure that test grades reflect content mastery, students are permitted to retake any major test they have failed within five school days the failing grade was received or no later than ten days of the date of the test. If the test is passed on the second attempt, the failing grade will be removed from the grade book, and the passing grade recorded with the following exception. When student behavior or actions clearly demonstrate that a major test was failed due to lack of effort or inappropriate behavior, teachers, with principal approval, may assess a grade penalty. The grade penalty shall be either the average of the two tests or a 70 (if either the average or the second attempt is above 70). The grade given to a student failing a test for the second time will be the higher score earned on either test. [The retesting policy does not apply to Assessments of Course Performance (ACPs)]. In some cases, a fee for a course taken through the Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN). Fees permitted by any other statute Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the principal. [For further information, see policies at FP.] FUND-RAISING Board Polices FJ(Local) and FJ(Regulation) address fund-raising activities. All fund-raising projects shall be subject to the approval of the principal and superintendent. Fund-raising activities by student groups and/or for school-sponsored projects are allowed, with prior administration approval and under the supervision of the project sponsor, for students in all grades. Funds raised must be receipted, deposited, and disbursed in accordance with CFD(LOCAL). No outside organizations of any sort may solicit contributions of any type from students within the schools. State law provides that a test or course grade issued by a teacher cannot be changed unless the board determines that the grade was arbitrary or contains an error, or that the teacher did not follow the district’s grading policy. [See policy EIA (LOCAL) and FNG (LEGAL).] Grading Pre-K-1 Essential knowledge and skills for pre-k-grade 1 are used for documenting mastery of the expectations per 21 grade level. In recording grades for pre-k, kindergarten, and first grade students, the symbols “E” indicating excellent progress, “S” for satisfactory progress, and “N” for needs improvement are used on the report card. For all subjects taught in 2-12, teachers use numerical grades on the report cards to report progress to parents and students. The numerical grade ranges are: A student who receives special education services and has completed four years of high school, but has not met the requirements of his or her IEP, may participate in graduation ceremonies and receive a certificate of attendance. Even if the student participates in graduation ceremonies to receive the certificate of attendance, he or she may remain enrolled to complete the IEP and earn his or her high school diploma; however, the student will only be allowed to participate in one graduation ceremony. [See FMH (LEGAL)] 70 – 100, Passing; Certificate of Coursework Completion Below 70, Failing; The district does not issue a certificate of coursework completion to seniors who successfully complete state and local credit requirements for graduation but fail to perform satisfactorily on the exit-level exams. Numerical Grades for 2-12 I, Incomplete (must be made up within guidelines). Students with excessive absences who did not complete a plan approved by the principal or whose appeal to the attendance committee was denied will be given the numerical grade earned, but it will be shown with an asterisk (*) to denote that no credit was received due to excessive absences. Graduation Expenses Because students and parents will incur expenses in order to participate in the traditions of graduation— such as the purchase of invitations, senior ring, cap and gown, and senior picture—both student and parent should monitor progress toward completion of all requirements for graduation. The expenses often are incurred in the junior year or first semester of the senior year. GRADUATION Requirements for a Diploma To receive a high school diploma from the district, a student must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass required statewide exitlevel exams. A student who does not pass the exitlevel exams will have additional opportunities to take the tests. State Scholarships and Grants Students who have a financial need according to federal criteria and who complete the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program may be eligible under the TEXAS Grant Program for tuition and fees to Texas public universities, community colleges, and technical schools, as well as to private institutions. Graduation or Certificate of Attendance for Students with Disabilities Upon the recommendation of the Admission, Review, and Dismissal Committee (ARDC),a student with disabilities who receives special education services may be permitted to graduate under the provisions of his or her Individualized Education Program (IEP). Graduation Programs The district offers the graduation programs listed below. All students entering grade 9 are required to enroll in the Recommended High School Program or Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program. Permission to enroll in the Minimum Graduation Program will be granted only after the student has completed four semesters in high school; is at least age 16; has earned 2 credits required for graduation in each subject of the foundation th curriculum or has failed to be promoted to the 10 grade at least once; and has a written agreement signed by the student, the student’s parent or person standing in parental relation, and the counselor or school administrator. [See policy EIF (LEGAL).] An Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee may determine that a student who is eligible for and enrolled in one or more locally developed special education courses qualifies to be enrolled in the Minimum High School Program prior to completing four semesters of high school. 22 Students entering the ninth grade prior to the 2007-08 school year should consult with their counselor to confirm credit requirements for graduation. Beginning with the 2007–2008 school year, in addition to all state and local course requirements for the selected program, a student entering the ninth grade must meet the following credit requirements for graduation: Minimum Program 22 credits Recommended Program 26 credits Distinguished Achievement Program 26 credits Not all state approved courses are offered at every secondary campus in the district. A student who wants to take a course not offered at his or her regular campus should contact the counselor about a transfer or other alternatives. Beginning with the entering freshman class in 2011-12, performance on the End of Course (EOC) exams is a factor in determining the eligibility to graduate under each of the graduation plans. See End of Course Assessments section on p.18. Texas State Graduation Requirements Distinguished Achievement Program – Requirements for Advanced Measures The measures must focus on demonstrated student performance at the college or professional level. Student performance on advanced measures must be assessed through an external review process. Except for the original research/project a student may not count two measures derived from a single activity. For example, a student who scores a three or better on the AP Economics exam cannot count a grade from a dual credit economics college course. A student must achieve any combination of four from the following: Original Research/Project: The research/project may not be used for more than two of the advanced measures. The research/project may be judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is the focus of the project; or conducted under the direction of mentor(s) and reported to an appropriate audience; and related to the required curriculum set forth in 19 TAC§74.1 (relating to TEKS). AP Exam: A score of three or above on the College Board Advanced Placement examination. PSAT: A score on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT/NMSQT) that qualifies a student for recognition as a Commended Scholar or higher by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation; as part of the National Hispanic Recognition Program of the College Board; or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship Program of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The PSAT/NMSQT score may count as only one advanced measure regardless of the number of honors received by the student. College Courses: College-level courses provided by the higher education institutions must be accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. A grade of 3.0 or higher on a one semester college course (including tech prep programs), will give students an advanced measure. The student must arrange for an official transcript to be sent from the college to the high school counselor well in advance of graduation in order to have the advanced measure(s) recorded on the student’s academic achievement record. The college transcript will be kept by the high school. Examples: A student may have combinations meeting the above criteria such as the following: 3 AP exams and 1 college course = 4 measures; 2 AP exams, 1 college course, and 1 PSAT = 4 measures; 4 dual credit courses = 4 measures; or 4 AP exams = 4 measure 23 Texas State Graduation Requirements (Applies to students entering Grade 9 in or after the 2007-08 school year with notes for students entering Grade 9 in or after the 2010-11 school year.) Discipline Minimum Graduation Plan Recommended High School Program Distinguished Achievement Program** English Language Arts Four credits: English I, II, III English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency. The fourth credit of English may be selected from any of the following: English IV, Research/Technical Writing, Creative/Imaginative Writing, Practical Writing Skills, Literary Genres, Business English, Journalism, AP English Lang & Comp, AP English Lit & Comp Three credits to include: Algebra I and Geometry. The third credit may be selected from any of the following: Algebra II Precalculus Mathematical Models with Applications Independent Study in Mathematics AP Statistics AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Computer Science Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (CTE) Engineering Mathematics (CTE) Statistics and Risk Management (CTE) Four credits: English I, II, III, and IV. English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency. English I Pre-AP, English II Pre-AP, AP Eng. Lang & Comp, AP Eng. Lit & Comp Four credits: English I, II, III, and IV. English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency. English I Pre-AP, English II Pre-AP, AP Eng. Lang & Comp, AP Eng. Lit & Comp Four credits. Three of the credits must be Alg. I, Alg. II, and Geometry. An additional credit may be selected from either of the following and must be successfully completed prior to Algebra II: Mathematical Models with Applications Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (CTE) The fourth credit may be selected from the following after successfully completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II Precalculus Independent Study in Mathematics AP Statistics AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Computer Science Advanced Quantitative Reasoning (AQR) Engineering Mathematics (CTE) Statistics and Risk Management (CTE) Four credits, which must consist of Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II The fourth credit may be selected from any of the following after successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II Precalculus Independent Study in Mathematics (AP) Statistics (AP) Calculus AB (AP) Calculus BC AP Computer Science Engineering Mathematics Statistics and Risk Management Mathematics Regardless of any high school mathematics credit completed prior to 9th grade, at least 3 mathematics credits must be earned in grades 9-12. 24 Discipline Minimum Graduation Plan Recommended High School Program Distinguished Achievement Program** Science Three credits to include: Biology and Integrated Physics and Chemistry. Regardless of any high school science credit completed prior to 9th grade, at least three science credits must be earned in grades 912. The Student may substitute Chemistry and Physics for IPC. Four credits, Biology, AP or IB Biology Chemistry, AP or IB Chemistry Principals of Technology Physics, AP or IB Physics Four credits, Biology, AP or IB Biology Chemistry, AP or IB Chemistry Physics, AP or IB Physics Students who have taken IPC prior to Fall 2010-2011 must follow the science graduation requirements for 2007-2008, 2008-2009. Students who have not completed IPC before Fall 2010-2011 must adhere to the science graduation requirements for 2010-2011. This newly adopted state guideline also applies to students who entered 9th grade in Fall 2009. Select from the following: Biology Chemistry Physics Principles of Technology OR Biology IPC and any additional one credit state approved science course The third science credit satisfies the requirement for an Academic Elective on the Minimum Plan. IPC may be taken, but must be successfully completed prior to Chemistry and Physics and it may not be taken as the final or fourth year of science. The fourth credit may be selected from any of the following: Aquatic Science Astronomy Earth and Space Science Environmental Systems AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Physics B AP Physics C AP Environmental Science • Scientific Research and Design (CTE) Anatomy and Physiology (CTE) Medical Microbiology Pathophysiology (CTE) Engineering Design and Problem Solving (CTE) Advanced Animal Science (CTE) Advanced Biotechnology (CTE) Advanced Plant and Soil Science (CTE) Food Science (CTE) Forensic Science (CTE) Note: Chemistry (equivalent) and Physics (equivalent) are required even if a student elects to take IPC. 25 After successful completion of a biology course, a chemistry course, and a physics course, the fourth credit may be selected from any of the following: Aquatic Science Astronomy Earth and Space Science Environmental Systems AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Physics B AP Physics C AP Environmental Science Research and Design (CTE) Engineering Design and Problem Solving (CTE) Anatomy and Physiology (CTE) Medical Microbiology (CTE) Pathophysiology (CTE) Advanced Animal Science (CTE) Advanced Biotechnology (CTE) Advanced Plant and Soil Science (CTE) Food Science (CTE) Forensic Science (CTE) Note: IPC and Principles of Technology I may not be taken to fulfill any of the four credits of science required under the DAP. Discipline Minimum Graduation Plan Recommended High School Program Distinguished Achievement Program** Social Studies Three credits must consist of: World History Studies (1) or World Geography Studies (1) and U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (1), U.S. Government (1/2), and Economics with Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and Its Benefits (1/2) Four credits must consist of: World History Studies (1) World Geography Studies (1) U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (1) U.S. Government (1/2), and Economics with Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and Its Benefits (1/2) Four credits must consist of: World History Studies (1) World Geography Studies (1) U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (1), U.S. Government (1/2), and Economics with Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and Its Benefits (1/2) Physical Education One and one-half credits: The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses: Foundations of Personal Fitness Adventure/Outdoor Education Aerobic Activities Team or Individual Sports Credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities: Athletics JROTC Approved private or commercially sponsored physical activity programs Up to one credit for any one of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in any of the following Drill Team Marching Band Cheerleading All allowed substitution activities must include at least 100 minutes per five-day school week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions. One and one-half credits The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses: Foundations of Personal Fitness Adventure/Outdoor Education Aerobic Activities Team or Individual Sports Credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities: Athletics JROTC Approved private or commercially sponsored physical activity programs Up to one credit for any one of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in any of the following: Drill Team Marching Band Cheerleading All allowed substitution activities must include at least 100 minutes per five-day school week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions. One and one-half credits The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses: Foundations of Personal Fitness Adventure/Outdoor Education Aerobic Activities Team or Individual Sports Credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities: Athletics JROTC Approved private or commercially sponsored physical activity programs Up to one credit for any one of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in any of the following: Drill Team Marching Band Cheerleading All allowed substitution activities must include at least 100 minutes per five-day school week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions A student who is unable to participate in physical activity due to a disability or illness may be able to substitute a course in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies for the required credits of physical education. This determination will be made by the student’s ARD committee, Section 504 committee, or other campus committee, as applicable. Adaptive PE may also be considered for a student receiving special education services. . 26 Discipline Minimum Graduation Plan Recommended High School Program Distinguished Achievement Program** Academic Elective One credit which is satisfied by the third science credit. None None None Languages Other Than English Health Education Technology Applications The credit required for students entering grade 9 prior to 2010-2011 must be earned by completing two semesters of the same eligible course. Fine Arts A Fine Arts credit is not required for Minimum Graduation Plan students entering grade 9 prior to 2010-2011. Speech Additional Components (Elective Courses) Total Program and Elective Credits Two credits Must consist of any two levels in the same language. One-half credit Health One-half credit Health Education or one credit Education or one credit Health Science Health Science None for students entering grade 9 in 2010-2011 or after. Three credits Must consist of any three levels in the same language. One-half credit Health Education or one credit Health Science One credit for students entering grade 9 prior to 2010-2011. The credit may be satisfied by the following: Computer Science I, Computer Science II, Desktop Publishing, Digital Graphics/Animation, Multimedia, Video Technology, Web Mastering, or Independent Study in Technology Applications; Animation, Advanced Animation, Graphic Design and Illustration, Advanced Graphic Design and Illustration, Business Information Management I, Business Information Management II, Principles of Information Technology, Telecommunication & Networking, Computer Technician, Computer Programming, Advanced Computer Programming, Digital & Interactive Media, Web Technologies, Research in Information Technology Solutions None for students who One credit from any of the One credit from any of the entered grade 9 before following: following: 2010-2011 Art I, II, III, IV Art I, II, III, IV Dance I, II, III, IV Dance I, II, III, IV One credit for students who Music I, II, III, IV Music I, II, III, IV enter grade 9 in 2010-11 or Theatre I, II, III, IV Theatre I, II, III, IV later from any of the Principles and Elements of Principles and Elements of following: Floral Design (CTE) Floral Design (CTE) Art I, II, III, IV Dance I, II, III, IV Music I, II, III, IV Theatre I, II, III, IV Principles and Elements of Floral Design (CTE) One-half credit from either: One-half credit from either: One-half credit from either: • Communication Applications • Communication Applications • Communication Applications • Professional • Professional • Professional Communications (CTE) Communications (CTE) Communications (CTE) Five and one-half credits Four and one-half credits Three and one-half credits from the list of courses from the list of courses from the list of courses approved by the SBOE for approved by the SBOE for approved by the SBOE for Grades 9-12, including stateGrades 9-12, including stateGrades 9-12, including stateapproved innovative courses, approved innovative courses, approved innovative courses, and JROTC (one to four and JROTC (one to four and JROTC (one to four credits). credits). credits). 22 26 26 College Board advanced placement and college-level concurrent/dual enrollment courses may be substituted for requirements in appropriate areas. ** The Distinguished Achievement Program requirements also include student achievement of four advanced measures. any organization whose members are or include other students. HAZING Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus directed against a student that endangers the mental or physical health or the safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated to, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in Hazing will not be tolerated by the district. If an incident of hazing occurs, disciplinary consequences will be handled in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. It is a criminal offense if a person engages in hazing; solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in hazing; or has 27 firsthand knowledge of an incident of hazing being planned or having occurred and fails to report this to the principal or superintendent. (See policies FFI and FNCC.) sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes). The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune system and cause meningitis or other serious illness. How can bacterial meningitis be prevented? Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss. th th Students entering 7 -8 grade will receive one dose of meningococcal vaccine. This vaccine protects against these infections. Pre-teens should receive a single shot of this vaccine during their 11 or 12 year old check-up. If your teenage student missed getting the vaccine contact your medical provider. The vaccine is available for those between the ages of 11 years to 55 years of age or for others in high risk categories. HEALTH INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS Bacterial Meningitis State law specifically requires the district to provide the following information: What is meningitis? Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is most common and the least serious. Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death. What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis? What are the symptoms? You should seek prompt medical attention. Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms. Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body. The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results. Where can you get more information? Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. You may also call your local health department or Regional Department of State Health Services office to ask about a meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also be found at the Web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State Health Services, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/. Contagious Diseases/ Conditions How serious is bacterial meningitis? To protect others from the spread of contagious diseases, students with confirmed communicable conditions are not allowed to attend school while contagious or until released to return to school by their medical provider. If a parent suspects that his or her child has a condition that is contagious the parent should notify the school nurse so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. The school nurse can provide information from the Texas Department of State Health Services regarding these diseases. [See policies at FFAD] If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability. How is bacterial meningitis spread? Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, 28 Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Immunization Branch. This form may be obtained at https://webds.dshs.state.tx.us/immco/affidavit.shtm or by writing the DSHS Immunization Branch (MC 1946), P.O. Box 149347, Austin, Texas 78714-9347. The form must be notarized and submitted to the principal or school nurse within 90 days of notarization. If the parent is seeking an exemption for more than one student in the family, a separate form must be provided for each student. In case of an epidemic declared by the Commissioner of Health, the student will need to be immunized or cannot attend school. Food Allergies Notify the campus administrator and the nurse when your child has been diagnosed with a food allergy, especially if the risk of anaphylaxis or severe or possibly life-threatening reactions exists to a particular food. It is important to disclose the food to which your child is allergic, as well as the nature of the allergic reaction. Medical information shared by the parent and health care provider will be incorporated into a plan to reduce the risk of exposure to identified food allergens. Health Screenings Current immunizations are required for: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella (German measles), mumps, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis (polio), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, varicella (chicken pox), and meningococcal meningitis. The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Department of State Health Services. Proof of immunization may be established by personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation. School health services are provided to all students in accordance with State Board rules and standards established by the Texas Department of State Health Services and other applicable laws. District registered nurses are skilled in nursing physical assessments and required screenings, emergency care, first aid, and certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Students may request a conference with the nurse anytime. Students should follow campus procedures during class time. Other routine health services include: Administering emergency care and first aid to students and staff. Providing and implementing an effective communicable disease control program including immunization surveillance and protective measures. Assessing the needs of students with disabilities and providing or supervising specialized medical procedures as directed by a health care provider. For further information, see policy FFAB (LEGAL) and the Department of State Health Services Web site: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default. shtm. Medication at School Only authorized district employees may administer medication and only medication that cannot be scheduled for outside of school hours may be given. All prescription medication must be in the original prescription bottle, with a prescription label bearing student name, the name of the doctor, and instructions for administration. A written request from the parent, granting permission for administration and indicating the time the last dose was given must accompany the medication. When the student must take medication for more than ten days, a Physician/Parent Request for Administration of Medicine or Special Procedure by School Personnel form is required. This form is available from the school nurse. The request is kept on file in the nurse’s office for the length of time the medication is given at school or one calendar year. Over the counter medications are not routinely administered at school. However, when administration is necessary, the medication must be in its original container/package. A Physician/Parent Request for Administration of Students new to the district and/or enrolled in grades designated by the Texas Department of State Health Services receive vision, hearing, spinal, and acanthosis nigricans (a sign of insulin resistance usually seen on the back of the neck) screenings. The school nurse will provide the required screenings unless the parent chooses to submit test results signed by a physician. Health appraisals, including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure, will be done at age appropriate intervals and for new-to-thedistrict students. Immunization A student must be fully immunized or a delay in school enrollment may be necessary. Exemptions from immunization requirements may be granted on a medical basis or for reasons of conscience. A medical exemption signed by the physician is required annually if not otherwise stated by the physician. Exemptions for reasons of conscience must be submitted on an official affidavit form issued by the 29 Medicine or Special Procedure by School Personnel form completed and signed by the student’s health care provider is required. All medications must be stored in the school clinic. Students may not carry or self-administer medications themselves at school except by written physician order and parent request and only for anaphylaxis medication, asthma inhaler or diabetic supplies. The student must also demonstrate to his or her physician or healthcare provider and school nurse the capability for self-administration including any device required to administer the medication as well as responsible behavior. When the duration of the medication is complete, the parent will be required to collect any unused medication. Any unclaimed medication will be destroyed. Physician requests for medication and/or special procedure must be renewed yearly with a new request form completed by physician and parent. Narcotics are not given at school unless approved by Central Health Services and only with a completed Physician’s/Parent Request for Administration of Medicine or Special Procedure by School Personnel form on file. HOMEWORK Homework assignments are related to the essential knowledge and skills and used as independent practice activities. They are to be completed outside the regular classroom and returned so they can be reviewed by the teacher, with feedback provided to the student. LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES Questioning of Students When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school, the principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation. The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school. Students Taken Into Custody State law requires the district to permit a student to be taken into legal custody: To comply with an order of the juvenile court Psychotropic Drugs To comply with the laws of arrest A psychotropic drug is a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication. It is intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior. Teachers and other district employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they are not permitted to recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A district employee who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse practitioner, a physician, or a certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate. [For further information, see policies at FFAC.] By a law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety Tobacco Prohibited Upon receipt of a lawfully issued directive to apprehend from a juvenile court presented by a law enforcement or probation officer. The district and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students and others on school property and at school-sponsored and school-related activities on or off school property. [See the Student Code of Conduct and policies at FNCD and GKA.] Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student. HOMELESS STUDENTS For more information on services for homeless students, contact the district’s McKinney-Vento homeless liaison, Mark Pierce, at (972) 794-4519. The principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a student’s release to a law enforcement officer. It is the responsibility of the entity taking the student into custody to notify the parents 30 recommended for program exit are to be monitored by the LPAC for two academic years after the exit. Notification of Law Violations The district is required by state law to notify: If a student is considered LEP and receives special education services because of a qualifying disability, the student’s Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee will make these decisions All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors. All instructional support personnel who have regular contact with a student who is required to register as a sex offender or who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors. MAKEUP WORK Makeup Work After an Absence Students are permitted to make up assignments and tests after an absence. Students receive credit without penalty for satisfactory makeup work after an absence, including absences as a result of suspension, but shall receive a zero for any assignment or test not made up within the allotted time. LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENT STUDENTS A student who is identified as limited English proficient (LEP) by the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) based on state established criteria, is entitled to receive specialized language services from the district. To determine whether the student qualifies for services, an LPAC will be convened, consisting of both district personnel and at least one parent representative. The LPAC shall give written notice to the student’s parent or guardian advising that the student has been classified as limited English proficient (LEP) and requesting approval to place the student in the required Bilingual Education or English as a Second Language Program. In order to determine a student’s level of proficiency in English, the LPAC will use information from state approved language proficiency assessments. Once the parent approves program placement, the student will receive instructional accommodations and language support. Ongoing assessments will be conducted to monitor and review the student’s progress to ensure academic success. DAEP or In-school Suspension Makeup Work A student removed to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete, before the beginning of the next school year, coursework needed to fulfill the student’s high school graduation requirements. The district may provide the opportunity to complete the coursework through an alternative method, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district. [See policy FOCA (LEGAL).] A student removed from the regular classroom to inschool suspension or another setting, other than a DAEP, is expected to complete all work assigned while in ISS. A student assigned to ISS will receive assignments from each classroom teacher while assigned to ISS. The district may also provide the opportunity to complete the coursework through alternative methods, including distance learning or summer school. Annually, the LPAC will determine the most appropriate assessment for each LEP student to demonstrate mastery of academic knowledge and skills, including which accommodations are necessary for any local or state-mandated assessments. The Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS) is administered to all LEP students annually including dually identified LEP students who receive special education services and students whose parents did not approve services. At the end of the academic year, the LPAC will meet to review progress of identified LEP students and determine whether the student will continue in the Dual Language program, ESL program, or qualifies for exiting. The campus LPAC is responsible for exiting all LEP students according to the criteria monitored by the Texas Education Agency. Identified LEP students who are Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss options with the teacher or counselor to ensure the student completes all work required for the course or grade level. NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY The Dallas Independent School District, as an equal opportunity educational provider and employer, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law in educational programs or activities that it operates or in employment decisions. The district is required by Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights 31 Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, as well as board policy not to discriminate in such a manner. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) If you suspect discrimination please contact: Mary McCants, Title VII or Title IX, at (972) 925-3250; Daphne LaMontagne, Section 504, at (972) 5814238; Marita Hawkins, Americans with Disabilities Act, at (972) 925-4047; or Employee Relations at (972) 925-4200. General questions about the district should be directed to Customer Service at (972) 925-5555. 5. Early College Programs Early College High Schools (ECHS) prepare students for successful career and educational futures through a full integration of high school, college, and the world of work. ECHS improve academic performance and self-concept, and increase high school and college/university completion rates. As students progress through Early College, they develop the skills and confidence that enable them to be successful in a college environment. The college and the high school support them with counseling, seminar classes, and enrichment opportunities; and provide tuition and books for college classes. NONTRADITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS Adult Basic Education Students have the opportunity to earn up to two years of college credit, complete the 42 hours of credit transferable by law to Texas public universities, and earn an Associate Degree by taking dual credit and concurrent credit classes. Early College Programs include the following: The Adult Basic Education Department exists to enable adult learners to be literate, productive, and successful in the workplace, home, and community by delivering comprehensive adult education instruction in a learner-centered, supportive, and collaborative environment. Through our free GED (General Educational Development) preparation, ESL (English as a Second Language), Distance Learning, and El Civics classes, adults in Dallas and Rockwall counties are instructed in literacy, numeracy, language acquisition, community and civic awareness, and workforce and college readiness. Program participants must be eighteen years or older. Seventeen year olds can enroll if officially withdrawn from high school and with written parental approval. Only in the case of a court mandate may sixteen year olds enroll. For more information, contact the Adult Basic Education office at (972) 749-2419. Kathlyn Joy Gilliam Collegiate Academy Students from W.H. Atwell, E.B. Comstock, O.W. Holmes, Maynard Jackson, Boude Storey, Seagoville and Sarah Zumwalt are eligible to make application to Kathlyn Joy Gilliam Collegiate Academy. Evening Academy Students currently enrolled in school may, with the approval of their day school counselor and principal, recover lost credit(s) by taking evening classes either at the Skyline Center or Justin F. Kimball High School. Students must be at least 16 years of age to participate and they must have their enrollment card completed and approved by the day school counselor prior to enrollment. Evening Academy classes begin two weeks after the start of each semester, and end two weeks prior to each semester’s close so that earned credits may be posted on student grade reports. Classes meet on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings from 5:30 – 9:30 pm, with fall semester classes meeting from 5:30 – 7:25 pm and spring semester classes meeting from 7:35 – 9:30 pm. Students may enroll in a maximum of two (2) one-half (1/2) credit classes each semester. Evening classes are offered at no cost, whether in-district or from out-of-district. For more information, please speak with a day school counselor or call the Evening Academy Office at (972) 502-3458. J.L. Patton, Jr. Academic Center This high school campus is for overage students. For information regarding program offerings, contact your high school counselor. Admission to the center is in accordance with policies FD (LEGAL), EHB (LOCAL) and the following criteria: 1. The student is 17 years or older with fewer than 3 credits. 2. The student is 18 years or older with fewer than 9 credits. 3. The student is 19 years or older with fewer than 15 credits. 4. The student is 20 years or older. The Superintendent or designee may assign and transfer a student to the academic center if the student meets the above criteria. Maya Angelou High School This educational program meets the needs of pregnant students by offering the district curriculum in 32 grades 6-12 with a focus on health, child development, and parenting skills. In addition to regular academic classes, programs and services emphasizing prenatal health, parenting, and childcare are provided for pregnant students who choose to attend this alternative school. Referral to the program is coordinated by the school nurse who will provide forms to be completed by the attending physician. The sending school counselor will plan the student’s academic program. Credit earned at Maya Angelou applies toward GPA, rank, and honors eligibility at the home school. Graduation will be from the home school. Physical Fitness Assessment Middle College High School at El Centro College Grades Pre-K - 8 Annually, the district will conduct a physical fitness assessment of students in grades 3–12 who are enrolled in a physical education course or a course for which physical education credit is awarded. At the end of the school year, a parent may submit a written request to the school’s physical education teacher to obtain the results of his or her child’s physical fitness assessment conducted during the school year. PROMOTION AND RETENTION Promotion is based on mastery of the curriculum. Expectations and standards for mastery are established for each grade level, content area, and are coordinated with compensatory/accelerated services. Students must apply by January of their eighth-grade year, provide recommendations from administrators and core subject teachers, and be interviewed. Students must meet Texas Success Initiative requirements before they can take college classes. Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students are not retained due to the voluntary status of enrollment. Pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade students receive grades of E (excellent), S (satisfactory), and N (needs improvement). First grade students are considered for retention if mastery of grade-level objectives is not reflected by assessment methods, especially in language arts and mathematics. Parental permission is required for retention of first grade students. Reconnection Centers Reconnection Centers are located on Title I comprehensive high school campuses. The campus centers provide an opportunity to recover credits that a student has failed. A student is scheduled in for a period(s) before, during, and/or after school to regain the missing core class credit while maintaining a regular campus schedule. In grades 2-8, promotion to the next grade level is based on an overall average of 70 on a scale of 100 based upon course-level, grade-level standards for all subject areas and a grade of 70 or above in three of the following areas: language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Trinidad “Trini” Garza Early College High School Students from T.W. Browne, T.A. Edison, L.V. Stockard, W.E Greiner, H.P. Garcia and Raul Quintanilla are eligible to submit an application to Trinidad “Trini” Garza Early College High School. Any student in grades 1-8 who does not meet the criteria outlined above for promotion to the next grade level may attend extended-year program(s) provided by the district in applicable content areas. Students who attend at least 90% of the extendedyear program days in the applicable content area(s) will be promoted to the next grade level at the beginning of the school year, on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter of the course or grade level. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY In accordance with policies at EHAB and EHBG, the district will ensure that students in full-day prekindergarten through grade 5 engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity for at least 30 minutes per day or 135 minutes per week. Students in middle or junior high school engage in 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day for at least four semesters OR at least 225 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity within a two-week period for at least four semesters. For additional information on the district’s requirements and programs regarding elementary, middle, and junior high school student physical activity requirements, please see the principal. [For additional information, see Retention of students is not shown to be an effective strategy for improving student achievement. The district and individual campuses have established procedures designed to reduce the numbers of students retained. A parent, however, may present a written request to the school principal asking that the student not be promoted. policy The Admission, Review, and Dismissal committee (ARD) determines promotion/retention procedures and academic achievement level expectations for EHAC(LEGAL)(LOCAL).] 33 special education students through the Individual Education Program (IEP). PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL SERVICES Any student who attends optional extended-year programs with the required 90 percent attendance rate and meets the academic achievement requirements but still experiences difficulty or is defined as at-risk will be required to participate the following year in additional strategic intervention strategies/programs designed to provide accelerated instructional services. In assessing students who are speakers of languages other than English for mastery of essential knowledge and skills, the district will be flexible in determining methods to allow the students to demonstrate knowledge or competency independent of their English language skills. Psychological and Social Services is a unique department within the Dallas ISD serving students who are experiencing significant social, emotional, or academic difficulties. The department is comprised of licensed specialists in school psychology (LSSP) and licensed social workers with personnel assigned to each campus. These student-centered professionals provide prevention, intervention, and crisis services, including consultation on suicide and violence risk assessments for K-12 students. Services may be initiated by Student Support Team referral or a counselor, parent, or administrator referral. [For additional information, see Policy FFE (LEGAL)(LOCAL)] Grades 9-12 Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment High school students are promoted/retained according to semesters completed and the number of state credits earned in grades 9-12. Classification is based on the following: The school will not conduct a formal psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parent’s written consent. Parental consent is not necessary when a psychological examination, test, or treatment is required by the Texas Education Agency for child abuse investigations and reports. Evaluations for Special Education eligibility will be conducted by the Special Education Department. Grade 10 (Sophomore) 5 or more credits and two full semesters in grades 9-12 Grade 11 (Junior) 12 or more credits and four full semesters in grades 9-12 RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL Grade 12 (Senior) 19 or more credits and five or more full semesters in grades 9-12 A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning and follow the campus sign-out procedures before leaving the campus. Otherwise, a student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day. Classification is established at the beginning of the fall semester only. Exceptions are made for junior students who become eligible for spring graduation on the basis of credits earned during the fall semester. High school principals are responsible for the classification of students. [Information regarding promotion/retention is found in Policy EIE (LOCAL)] A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any student in a middle school or beyond who did not perform satisfactorily on a state-mandated assessment or is determined by the district as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year following enrollment in grade 9. The PGP will be designed and implemented by a guidance counselor, teacher, or other staff member designated by the principal. The plan will, among other items, identify the student’s educational goals, address the parent’s educational expectations for the student, and outline an intensive instruction program for the student. [See EIF(LEGAL).] For a student receiving special education services, the student’s IEP may serve as the student’s PGP and would therefore be developed by the student’s ARD committee. To protect student safety, the following guidelines should be adhered to when parents are not able or willing to pick up students being removed from the campus for disciplinary reasons: Parents should be contacted to pick up the student. Students should be placed in in-school suspension or other appropriate areas of isolation if parents are not able to pick them up. Administrators should not transport students in their own vehicles to their home or parent’s workplace as they would be liable for any accident or injury that occurs. Police and Security Services should be called to pick up students whose behavior continues to 34 compromise the safety and security of the campus and creates a public nuisance. If a student becomes ill during the school day, the student should receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the school nurse. The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the principal and the student’s parent. REPORT CARDS AND CONFERENCES Emergency School-Closing Information Questions about grade calculation should first be discussed with the teacher; if the question is not resolved, the student or parent may request a conference with the principal in accordance with FNG(LOCAL). Also, see information at GRADING. SAFETY Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the district. Although the district has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensuring school safety. A student should: Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk. Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers. Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the principal any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus or threats made by any person toward a student or staff member. Know emergency evacuation routes and signals. Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other district employees who are overseeing the welfare of students. Drills: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies From time to time, students, teachers, and other district employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. Emergency Information Medical Treatment reached, the school needs to have student specific health related information, as well as written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment. Therefore, parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date, such as name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, current health history, etc. Please contact the school nurse to update any information that the nurse or the teacher needs to know. and In case of a serious student accident at school, the student’s parent is immediately notified using contact information located on the enrollment form. If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be 35 If the schools are to be closed when inclement weather is forecast or prevalent, the Communications Department of the district shall notify TV and radio stations so that students, their parents, and employees can make plans accordingly. Once the school day has commenced, the district shall hold the schools open all day regardless of weather. Only in extenuating circumstances, i.e., lack of heat, damage to the building, or the like, will consideration be given for early release of students/staff. This consideration will be made on an individual school basis and determined by the superintendent or designee. The safety, health, and well-being of the students will remain a priority. SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM The district participates in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student’s participation is confidential. Applications are available at the school and online. Menu modifications for special dietary needs are available as needed. For more information, contact your school cafeteria. The district follows the federal and state guidelines regarding foods of minimal nutritional value being served or sold on school premises during the school day. [For more information, see policy CO (LEGAL).] SEARCHES, METAL DETECTORS, AND VIDEO CAMERAS In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, district officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law. Searches may include but are not limited to a student’s outer clothing, a vehicle driven to school by a student and parked on school property, and the student’s desk or locker. Any searches of personal telecommunications or other personal electronic devices will be conducted in accordance with law and the device may be confiscated in order to perform a lawful search. A confiscated device may be turned over to law enforcement to determine whether a crime has been committed. (See policy FNF LEGAL SPECIAL PROGRAMS Students may also be subject to search by a metal detector on a random or regular basis—or on the basis of individualized reasonable suspicion. The district provides special programs for gifted and talented students, homeless students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the district or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the student’s counselor. Video/audio equipment may be used to monitor student behavior on buses and in common areas on campus. Students will not be told when the equipment is being used. See Student Code of Conduct. STANDARDIZED TESTING Many colleges require either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT) for admission. Students are encouraged to talk with the counselor early during their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; admissions exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year. (Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, most students must take a standardized test, such as the Texas Higher Education Assessment [THEA]). Test Date Test Date SAT October 6, 2012 ACT September 8, 2012 November 3, 2012 October 27, 2012 December 1, 2012 December 8, 2012 January 26, 2013 February 9, 2013 March 9, 2013 April 13, 2013 May 4, 2013 June 8, 2013 June 1, 2013 PSAT/NMSQT * October 17 or 20, 2012 ReadiStep October 17 – 31, 2012 College Board AP Exams** May 6-10 and 13-17, 2013 * The PSAT/NMSQT that qualifies students for scholarships and National Merit recognition is taken in October of the student’s junior year. ** AP Exams provide students the opportunity to receive college credit if they obtain qualifying scores. STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Reading, annually in grades 3–8 Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 and 7 Grades 3–8 Science in grades 5 and 8 In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state-mandated assessments, such as the STAAR, in the following subjects: Social Studies in grade 8 Successful performance on the reading and math assessments in grades 5 and 8 is required by law in Mathematics, annually in grades 3–8 36 order for the student to be promoted to the next grade level. See Promotion and Retention on page for additional information. A student may choose to retake an EOC assessment in situations other than those listed above as well. STAAR Modified and STAAR Alternate, for students receiving special education services, will be available for eligible students, as determined by the student’s ARD committee. These particular EOC assessments may have different testing windows than the general assessments, and the ARD committee will determine whether successful performance on the assessments will be required for graduation Impact of STAAR/EOCs on Graduation Plans STAAR-L, which is a linguistically accommodated assessment, will be available for students who have been determined to be limited English proficient (LEP) and who require this type of testing accommodation. Recommended Plan: required credits, plus meet the minimum cumulative score for each of the 4 core content areas and meet the minimum standard on the English III and Algebra II EOCs. Additional information may be found by on the following website: http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/ Distinguished Plan: required credits and advanced measures, plus meet the cumulative score for each of the 4 content areas and meet the college readiness standard on the English III and Algebra II EOCs. End-of-Course (EOC) Assessments Students in Grades 9–12 Beginning with students entering grade 9 in 201112, students must meet the following additional graduation requirements: Minimum Plan: required credits, plus meet the minimum cumulative score for each of the core content areas. for Also see Course Credit, Grading Guidelines, and Graduation for additional information. Beginning with ninth graders in the 2011–2012 school year, end-of-course (EOC) assessments will be administered for the following courses: TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II TAKS is a state-mandated assessment currently being transitioned to the STAAR program. However, depending on the grade level of the student, TAKS may still be administered to a student. English I, English II, and English III Biology, Chemistry, and Physics World Geography, World History, and United States History The State of Texas requires all students to pass an "Exit-Level" exam (in addition to course requirements) in order to earn a high school diploma. Beginning in the 2011-2012 year, the Satisfactory performance on the applicable assessments will be required for graduation and will also affect the plan under which the student may graduate. STAAR/EOC exams replaced the "Exit-Level" TAKS test for all incoming 9th grade students. Students who entered 9th grade prior to 2011-2012 must still pass the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test in English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Students who entered 9th grade in 2011-2012 and beyond are required to meet the minimum standard on the new State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness/End-ofCourse (STAAR/EOC) exams in English I, English II, English III; Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II; Biology, Chemistry, Physics; World Geography, World History, and U.S. History. Also see "Graduation" for more information. There will be three testing windows during the year in which a student may take an EOC assessment, which will occur during the fall, spring, and summer months. In each content area (English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies), a student must achieve a cumulative score. To determine whether the student meets the cumulative score, the student’s EOC assessment scores in each content area will be added together. If the student’s total score on the assessments within the content area is not equal to or greater than the cumulative score set by TEA, the student may retake any of the assessments in that content area until the student achieves the cumulative score. A student who does not achieve the minimum required score on any individual assessment will be required to take the assessment. Also see Graduation for more information. 37 THEA (Texas Higher Education Assessment) Grades 9-12 Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, most students must take a standardized test, such as the Texas Higher Education Assessment [THEA]. The purpose of the THEA is to assess the reading, mathematics, and writing skills that entering freshmen-level students should have if they are to perform effectively in undergraduate certificate or degree programs in Texas public colleges and universities. This test may be required before a student enrolls in a dualcredit course offered through the district as well. Summer school/extended year courses are available to students in grades 9-12. Each year prior to the dates scheduled for summer registration, counselors distribute information regarding locations, course offerings, tuition, and dates for the summer program. The parents or guardians of each student who has not successfully completed a subject or course for any semester shall be notified by the district as soon as practical of any available district program that may permit the student to successfully complete the failed subjects or courses. STEROIDS Courses will be offered depending upon sufficient enrollment (10 students per period) and “highly qualified” teacher availability. Parents and students should be aware that state law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use. Students may take up to two semester courses. One credit is the maximum number that can be earned during the summer. Bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid or human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminal offense. Students may take courses to gain (advance) or recover credit for one-semester courses. Seniors who need both semesters of a course failed, may take courses to recover credit for the two semester courses failed. Students participating in UIL athletic competition may be subject to random steroid testing. Go to http://www.uiltexas.org/health/steroidinformation for more information. Student progress shall be evaluated according to the same standards as those used during the regular term. SUMMER SCHOOL/EXTENDED YEAR PROGRAMS All district policies and guidelines are in effect during the summer school program. Grades 1-8 At the close of the summer session, graduation exercises will be held for those who have completed all graduation requirements. Any student in grades 1–8 who does not meet the criteria for promotion to the next grade level may attend extended year program(s) provided by the district in applicable content areas. A student who attends at least 90 percent of the extended year program days in the applicable content area(s) shall be promoted to the next grade level at the beginning of the school year but only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter of the course or grade level. TEEN PREGNANCY AND PARENTING RELATED SERVICES The Health Services Department Teen Pregnancy and Parenting Program provides supplemental services to the regular education program for the purpose of increasing the academic achievement and reducing the dropout rate of pregnant and parenting teens. Case management services are provided to meet the emotional, social, physical health, and financial needs of the pregnant and parenting student. Services are provided to assist and support the student’s academic achievement through graduation while learning to manage the responsibilities of parenthood. A maximum of two middle school foundation courses may be taken in summer school. A student who has failed three foundation courses may attend summer school and shall be eligible for promotion if his or her summer school grades enable him or her to meet the promotion criteria. A student who attends 90 percent of the summer school session in one or two failed foundation courses may be exempted from the mandatory accelerated instruction program. A student who has failed more than three foundation courses may attend summer school if he or she so chooses, but shall not be eligible for promotion. For other non-traditional academic opportunities, see headings regarding the following: 38 Correspondence Courses, Credit by Exam, and Summer School. have until the last day of the spring transfer period to apply for a transfer for the next school year. Students requesting transfer for medical reasons must also complete the student transfer form. Transportation is not provided. TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS, AND TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT School Choice Transfers/Public Education Grant (PEG) State-approved textbooks are provided to students free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. Electronic textbooks and technological equipment may also be provided to students in certain circumstances. A student who is issued a damaged item should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return an item in acceptable condition loses the right to free textbooks and equipment until the item is returned or paid for by the parent; however, the student will be provided textbooks and equipment for use at school during the school day. [See Policy CMD (LEGAL), (LOCAL)] State law enables students in certain schools identified by the state to apply for transfers to other schools within the district dependent upon space availability. The state criteria for these schools are that (1) fewer than 50 percent of the school’s students passed either the reading, writing, or mathematics section of the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills in two of the last three years, or (2) the school was rated by the Texas Education Agency as “academic unacceptable” in any of the last three years. Students have until the last day of the spring semester to apply for a School Choice Transfer for the following year. If a student wishes to transfer outside the district, he/she must contact the other district. If a student wishes to transfer to a school within the district, he/she must follow the procedures for a student transfer. Transportation is not provided. TRANSFERS BETWEEN DISTRICT SCHOOLS [See Policy FD (LEGAL)(LOCAL), FDA (LEGAL), FDB (LEGAL) (LOCAL) (REGULATION), FDAA (LEGAL)] School Choice/No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Federal law enables students in schools that have not made adequate yearly progress (AYP) for two or more consecutive years the right to transfer from those schools to other schools selected by the district. Students may apply at specified times during the school year. Transportation is provided or paid for by the district. General Authority The Board or its designee may assign and transfer any student from one school facility or classroom to another facility or classroom within its jurisdiction. Education Code 25.031 Students requesting a transfer may lose eligibility to participate in UIL activities for at least one year – depending on the transfer. Senior Option Seniors who move into another Dallas ISD attendance area will be allowed, without transfer, to finish in the school where they are enrolled if they have sufficient credits to complete their work within that year. Seniors who have completed most of their work in a Dallas high school and who move out of the area may elect to receive their diploma from their Dallas high school. They may offer as much as one semester’s work in the new school toward credit for their diploma, provided they have passed the state exit exam and their work fulfills graduation requirements. Careful planning with the receiving school to arrange for meeting deadlines is necessary. Curriculum Transfers Students may request a transfer from their neighborhood school to the school nearest to their neighborhood to take a course that is not offered in their home school, provided a student transfer application form is completed and approved, and space is available in the receiving school. Students have until the last day of the spring transfer period to apply for a transfer for the next school year. Transportation is not provided. Hardship and Medical Transfers Students may request a transfer from their neighborhood school to attend another Dallas ISD school with available space if personal or family circumstances prevent a student from attending the assigned school, provided a student transfer application form is completed and approved, and space is available in the receiving school. Students Transfer of Students Who Move During a Semester In the event of a student’s residence being moved from one district school attendance area to another or to another school district during the course of a 39 semester, the student shall be eligible to enroll in the school serving the new residence, or the student may remain in the home school until the completion of the current semester. [See policy FDB (REGULATION)] School-Sponsored Trips Students who participate in school-sponsored activity trips, excursions, or tours are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event. Exceptions may be made only if the student presents a written request signed by the parent or guardian to the principal the day before the scheduled event that the student be allowed to ride with a person designated by the parent or guardian, or that the student be allowed to furnish and drive the student’s own transportation. The district shall not be liable or responsible for any action, injuries, or damages that occur to students riding in vehicles that are not provided by the school. See policy FDB (LOCAL). TRANSPORTATION Buses and Other School Vehicles The district makes school bus transportation available to all students living two or more miles from school. This service is provided at no cost to students. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school or on the district’s website. See the Student Code of Conduct for provisions regarding transportation to the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP). Student Bus Riders’ Code of Conduct: Certain rules of conduct are necessary for the safety of all students who ride the bus. Students displaying the following infractions will be reported to the principal by the bus driver. Students are expected to assist district staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that transportation is provided safely. When riding in district vehicles, students are held to behavioral standards established in this handbook. Students must: Improper boarding/departing procedures; Ride the bus only if eligible. Bringing any type of weapon or other article of injurious or objectionable nature aboard the bus; Not bring friends or unauthorized persons to ride the bus. Failure to remain seated when directed or when the bus is moving; Be at bus stop a minimum of five minutes prior to bus stop time. Refusing to obey driver or monitor or addressing driver or monitor in disrespectful manner; Enter and leave the bus or van in an orderly manner at the designated stop nearest home. Fighting, pushing, tripping, or assault; Follow the driver’s directions at all times. Eating or drinking on the bus; Keep feet, books, instrument cases, and other objects out of the aisle. Not deface the bus, van, or its equipment. Extending any part of a student's body, clothing, or any other article outside a bus window; Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw objects within or out of the bus or van. Throwing, pitching, or shooting objects inside or out of the bus; Not possess or use any form of tobacco on school buses. Lighting matches or smoking or using tobacco products on the bus; Observe all usual classroom rules. Spitting or littering; Be seated while the vehicle is moving. Unnecessary noise; Fasten seat belt when directed or when the bus is moving (if bus is equipped with seat belts). Tampering with bus equipment or vandalism of bus property; Wait for the driver’s signal upon leaving the bus or van and before crossing in front of the vehicle. Destruction of property; Rude, discourteous, or annoying conduct; Using profanity Harassing or distracting the driver; 40 VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL Possession or use of tobacco, tobacco products, drugs, abusable volatile chemicals, or alcohol; Parents and others are welcome to visit district schools. For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, all visitors must first report to the principal’s office and must comply with all applicable district policies and procedures. Public lewdness or indecent exposure; Making a false alarm or report or terroristic threat; Engaging in conduct that constitutes a felony; or Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and only so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be permitted. Other behavior detrimental to safety, wellbeing, and respect for others. School transportation is a privilege and not a state requirement. The slightest distraction to the driver may have significant student safety consequences. Appropriate student behavior is essential to the safe operation of the school bus. School campus administrators are responsible for the students while on the bus and reserve the right to resolve discipline problems that occur between home and campus. It is the duty of the principal, not the driver, to exclude a child from riding a school bus. The principal shall take steps to maintain acceptable student conduct, including the discretion to deny the privilege of school bus transportation. This privilege may be temporarily denied or permanently revoked if misconduct jeopardizes the safe operation of the school bus or the safety of students riding the bus. VENDING MACHINES The district has adopted policies and implemented procedures to comply with state and federal guidelines to restrict student access to vending machines in any food services area. WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL Minor students may be withdrawn from school by the student’s parent or guardian stating the reason for the withdrawal. Students 18 or older, or who have established residence away from home may request withdrawal without a parent or guardian’s signature. [See FD (LOCAL)] On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be obtained from the (elementary) data controller or the (secondary) registrar and presented to each teacher for current grade averages, absences, and book and equipment clearance; to the librarian to ensure a clear library record; to the counselor for course clearance; and finally, back to the registrar or elementary data controller. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student, and a copy will be kept at the school. Students should be aware that the bus is an extension of the school. All Student Code of Conduct offenses are subject to the same disciplinary actions and consequences while riding Dallas ISD-provided transportation. VANDALISM The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended, littering, defacing, or damaging school property will not be tolerated. Students will be required to pay for damages they cause and will be subject to criminal proceedings as well as disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. 41 Glossary Accelerated instruction is an intensive supplemental program designed to address the needs of an individual student in acquiring the knowledge and skills required at his or her grade level and/or as a result of a student not meeting the passing standard on a state-mandated assessment. ACT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams: the American College Test. The test may be a requirement for admission to certain colleges or universities. ARD is the admission, review, and dismissal committee convened for each student who is identified as needing a full and individual evaluation for special education services. The eligible student and his or her parents are members of the committee. Attendance review committee is sometimes responsible for reviewing a student’s absences when the student’s attendance drops below 90 percent of the days the class is offered. Under guidelines adopted by the board, the committee will determine whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences and whether the student needs to complete certain conditions to master the course and regain credit lost because of absences. DAEP stands for disciplinary alternative education program, a placement for students who have violated certain provisions of the Student Code of Conduct. EOC assessments are end-of-course tests, which are state-mandated, and are part of the STAAR program. Successful performance on EOC assessments will be required for graduation beginning with students in grade 9 during the 2011–2012 school year. These exams will be given in English I, English II, English III, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, World Geography, World History, and United States History. FERPA refers to the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act that grants specific privacy protections to student records. The law contains certain exceptions, such as for directory information, unless a student’s parent or a student 18 or older directs the school not to release directory information. IEP is the written record of the individualized education program prepared by the ARD committee for a student with disabilities who is eligible for special education services. The IEP contains several parts, such as a statement of the student’s present educational performance; a statement of measurable annual goals, with short-term objectives; the special education and related services and supplemental aids and services to be provided, and program modifications or support by school personnel; a statement regarding how the student’s progress will be measured and how the parents will be kept informed; accommodations for state or district wide tests; whether successful completion of state-mandated assessments is required for graduation, etc. ISS refers to in-school suspension, a disciplinary technique for misconduct found in the Student Code of Conduct. Although different from out-of-school suspension and placement in a DAEP, ISS removes the student from the regular classroom. LAT stands for linguistically accommodated testing, which is an assessment process for recent immigrant English language learners who are required to be assessed in certain grades and subjects under the NCLB Act. NCLB Act is the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. PGP stands for Personal Graduation Plan, which is recommended for all students entering grade 9 and is required by state law for any student in middle school or higher who fails a section on a state-mandated test or is identified by the district as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year after he or she begins grade 9. SAT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams: the Scholastic Aptitude Test. The test may be a requirement for admissions to certain colleges or universities. SHAC stands for School Health Advisory Council, a group of at least five members, a majority of whom must be parents, appointed by the school board to assist the district in ensuring that local community values and health issues are reflected in the district’s health education instruction. 42 Section 504 is the federal law that prohibits discrimination against a student with a disability, requiring schools to provide opportunities for equal services, programs, and participation in activities. Unless the student is determined to be eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), general education with appropriate instructional accommodations will be provided. STAAR is the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, the state’s system of standardized academic achievement assessments, effective beginning with certain students for the 2011–2012 school year. STAAR Alternate is an alternative state-mandated assessment designed for students with severe cognitive disabilities receiving special education services who meet the participation requirements, as determined by the student’s ARD committee. STAAR Modified is an alternative state-mandated assessment based on modified achievement standards that is administered to eligible students receiving special education services, as determined by the student’s ARD committee. STAAR Linguistically Accommodated (STAAR L) is an alternative state-mandated assessment with linguistic accommodations designed for certain recent immigrant English language learners. State-mandated assessments are required of students at certain grade levels and in specified subjects. Successful performance sometimes is a condition of promotion, and passing the grade 11 exit-level test or endof-course assessments, when applicable, is a condition of graduation. Students have multiple opportunities to take the tests if necessary for promotion or graduation. Student Code of Conduct is developed with the advice of the district-level committee and adopted by the board and identifies the circumstances, consistent with law, when a student may be removed from the classroom or campus. It also sets out the conditions that authorize or require the principal or another administrator to place the student in a DAEP. It outlines conditions for out-of-school suspension and for expulsion. The Student Code of Conduct also addresses notice to the parent regarding a student’s violation of one of its provisions. TAKS is the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, the state’s standardized achievement test currently given to students in certain subjects in grades 10 and 11 and is required for graduation for students at these grade levels. . TELPAS stands for the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System, which assesses the progress that English language learners make in learning the English language, and is administered for those who meet the participation requirements in kindergarten–grade 12. TxVSN is the Texas Virtual School Network, which provides online courses for Texas students to supplement the instructional programs of public school districts. Courses are taught by qualified instructors, and courses are equivalent in rigor and scope to a course taught in a traditional classroom setting. UIL refers to the University Interscholastic League, the statewide voluntary nonprofit organization that oversees educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contests. 43 Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook Contract Campus Copy As the parent/guardian of the student listed below, I hereby confirm that I have been given a copy of the Dallas Independent School District’s Student Code of Conduct and that: 1. 2. 3. 4. I accept the responsibilities expected of me as a parent/guardian of a student. I acknowledge receipt of the policies, procedures, rules, regulations and practices as presented in this document. I have read the procedures listed in the appeal process. I accept the consequences should my child fail to abide by these provisions. Date Name of Student (please print) Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature NOTE: This Handbook is designed to be used as a guide for parents/guardians and students of the Dallas Independent School District. This form is to be signed and returned by the student within five days of the time this handbook is distributed and discussed. The signature sheet is to be filed in the student’s permanent record folder for the 2012-2013 school year. Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook Acknowledgement Receipt Student/Parent Copy As the parent/guardian of the student listed below, I hereby confirm that I have been given a copy of the Dallas Independent School District’s Student Code of Conduct and that: 1. 2. 3. 4. I accept the responsibilities expected of me as a parent/guardian of a student. I acknowledge receipt of the policies, procedures, rules, regulations and practices as presented in this document. I have read the procedures listed in the appeal process. I accept the consequences should my child fail to abide by these provisions. Date Name of Student (please print) Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature NOTE: This Handbook is designed to be used as a guide for parents/guardians and students of the Dallas Independent School District. This form is to be signed and returned by the student within five days of the time this handbook is distributed and discussed. The signature sheet is to be filed in the student’s permanent record folder for the 2012-2013 school year.
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