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Northern Heights Student Handbook

October 10, 2011

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: 9-12

Any child entering the public schools of Kansas for the first time, at any grade level, must present a Kansas Certification of Immunization and their previous grade card. Any student residing in USD #251 who has completed grades K-8 may attend Northern Heights High School as per Kansas State Law.

ATTENDANCE/ABSENCES

Legal Basis for Attendance – Regular attendance is required of all students enrolled in schools under Kansas compulsory attendance statute (K.S.A. 72-1111). It is a parental responsibility under Kansas statute to require regular school attendance of any child. Achievement and attendance in the classroom are closely correlated.

Absences will be reported to the office each hour of the school day. If a student is absent from school, the parents of the student should contact the high school office by 8:30 am the day of the absence. If no call has been made by 8:30 am, the high school secretary will make calls to parents of students who are absent. Notes will be accepted from those students who do not have a telephone, or who have not been contacted by the school office. After excused absences, an opportunity to make up work missed will be extended to the student, provided he/she contacts the teacher after his/her return to school. It is the student’s responsibility to make this contact. Students will have two days to make up work for every day missed.

Students will not be allowed to make up work when they are absent from school and the absence is unexcused, unless arranged through the office. Students who are 18 or turn 18 during the school year and check themselves out because they can, will be considered unexcused absent.

A student missing school due to a scheduled activity must make arrangements to turn in assignments, take tests, etc. with his/her teacher before being absent.

A student must be in attendance all day to be able to participate in a school sponsored activity that night. The only exceptions will be for doctor appointments, funerals, school activities, and unavoidable conflicts. The student must return to school with an excuse, signed by the doctor, to be eligible to participate in any activity that evening.

Truancy – Students who are truant and meet the following conditions will be reported to the appropriate authorities in Lyon County as required by state statute.

Student is absent three consecutive days unexcused.
Student is absent five cumulative days within a semester unexcused.
Student is absent seven cumulative days within a school year unexcused.

ASSEMBLIES

A standard of conduct at assembly programs, plays, and similar performances should conform to normal rules of courtesy and common sense. Assemblies are a regular part of our school program and help create better school spirit, develop leadership and talent, and give our students an opportunity to enjoy good entertainment.

ADVERTISING MATERIAL

All material posted in the halls or on school property must be approved by the principal. Otherwise, it will be removed. This applies to campaign material and to posters or notices of any type.

CHEER/DANCE TEAM

Members of the Cheer/Dance team are selected in the spring to serve the following school year. They are expected to lead the student body and patrons in cheers, while at the same time promoting good sportsmanship.

DAMAGE TO SCHOOL PROPERTY

Any student who intentionally or accidentally destroys, damages, or defaces school property shall immediately compensate for such damage, and upon refusal, may be suspended from school until compensation has been made.

BUILDING HOURS: 9-12

The building will be open 30 minutes before classes start in the morning and 30 minutes after school. Students not riding school buses should not expect to be allowed to enter the building before this time. No one is to be in the building before or after these hours without special permission and supervision.

PARKING (Motor Vehicles)

All motor vehicles must be parked upon arrival at school and left parked during the day. No student may drive a motor vehicle during the school day without special permission from the office. Students are to stay out of the parking lot during the school day, unless they have permission from the office. Once in the building, students are not to leave without permission. Students are to park in the south lot in designated spaces. Students are not permitted to park in bus zones or on the east and north sides of the building. Reckless driving in the student parking lot will result in disciplinary action to be determined by the principal. If the offense is repeated, or is a danger to others, the student could lose parking privileges. All students who drive to school must have their vehicle(s) registered in the office. This can be done of at enrollment.

DETENTION

A student receiving a detention will serve the detention with the teacher who gave the detention. The student will have two (2) days to serve the detention. If the detention is not served, the student will be assigned to serve In School Suspension. At this point, the procedure will start over, with the student serving after school detention time for any subsequent detentions.

DRESS CODE

Northern Heights High School is committed to providing a safe and friendly learning environment for its students. Attire is not only a reflection of the individual student, but also of the general learning environment. Therefore, students have the responsibility to wear clothing that projects a positive attitude of pride in self, school, and community. Students are required to wear appropriate, comfortable, and safe clothing that is neat, clean, and in good taste. No article of clothing will be worn that distracts from the education process. Northern Heights High School views the dress code as a serious issue and expects parents to promote the observance of this policy. Building administrators have the final decision as to the appropriateness of all clothing and attire. Following are the guidelines for the students:

Vulgar, illegal (including alcohol, drugs, tobacco), and/or sexually oriented statements or suggestions on clothing are not permitted. Any statement which causes, intends to cause, or is likely to cause a hostile, intimidating, degrading, offensive, harassing, or discriminatory environment is prohibited.

Shirts and tops shall overlap the top of jeans (no midriffs), slacks, or skirts. Spaghetti straps, thin strap tank tops (including low-cut under the arms, front or back, halter type, see-through, off the shoulder tops, backless tops), or revealing clothing is not allowed (no cleavage – front or back). In addition, no clothing made to be worn as undergarments shall be showing (including sports bras).

Hats (or other head coverings), hoods, hoodies with hoods covering the head and sunglasses are not permitted to be worn inside the school building unless approved by a principal, physician, and/or the school nurse. (Exceptions will be made during spirit weeks if these accessories go with the theme.)

Pants, jeans, shorts, etc. must be worn at waist level and cover all undergarments. (No sagging) Ripped shirts and pants shall not be worn that expose undergarments or private areas.

Chains and/or studded accessories are prohibited and will be confiscated until the end of the school year. Accessories that increase a student’s risk for accidents, including key chains on book bags, are not permitted.

Appropriate and safe shoes or sandals must be worn at all times.

Some school programs, such as industrial arts, laboratory activities, physical education, and interscholastic athletics may require special hair care, clothing, footwear, or restrictions on jewelry to ensure the health and safety or all students.

ELIGIBILITY

Students at Northern Heights High School must meet all eligibility requirements as set forth by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) and, in addition, the requirements of USD #251.

USD #251 requirements state that all students participating in KSHSAA sponsored activities must be passing at least five (5) units of class work with at least a C. In addition, the student may not be failing more than one class. These grades will be checked each Friday to determine eligibility for the following week. The first time students fall below the established criteria, and is still passing at least five courses, they will be allowed a one-time probation week in which to raise their grades. Once this probation has been used, students will be immediately ineligible when they fall below the criteria. Semester and final grades will be used at the end of the second and fourth nine weeks to determine semester eligibility. If a student fails to earn five (5) credits from the previous semester, they will be ineligible for 18 weeks.

FEES

Fees are for book rental, lunch accounts, wood projects, and for any damages to books or school property. Book rental is to be paid when the student enrolls. Students moving during the school year will be given a refund prorated on the amount of time enrolled.

WITHDRAWAL FROM CLASSES

A student will be able to withdraw from a class within six (6) days after the class has begun (the beginning of the school year or semester), for a semester class. The withdrawal from a class will only be permitted after a conference between the student, counselor, principal, and parents.

FIGHTING

Fights on school property or in the building are not permitted. Fighting may result in immediate suspension. The harassment of students or threats made by one (or more) student(s) to another student will not be tolerated. Law enforcement may be called in the case of physical violence.

FIRE AND EMERGENCY DRILLS

Fire drills are held at least once a month in accordance with Kansas Statutes. Every student and teacher is required by law to vacate the building during the drill. Teachers should be the last to leave the room and should see that all windows and doors are closed upon leaving the room. Immediately upon getting outside the building, the teacher should check the roll to be sure that all pupils are present.

Each classroom will have a displayed map of the building detailing primary and secondary fire exits.

A tornado drill procedure has been outlined and given to the teachers. Students will be briefed and notices posted by the teacher.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for graduation will be the following:

4 units of English

½ unit of American Government

½ unit of Economics

1 unit of American History

1 unit of World History/World Geography

3 units of Science

3 units of Math

1 unit of Physical Education

1 unit of Fine Arts (Music, Art, Forensics)

9 Electives

A student will need 24 units of credit to graduate from Northern Heights High School. A student will be within 2 credits of fulfilling the requirements of graduation in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.

To be classified in the following classes, a student must have completed:

Senior – 17 credits

Junior – 10 credits

Sophomore – 3 credits

Honor Roll

An Honor Roll will be compiled each nine weeks and also at the end of each semester. The “B” Honor Roll consists of those students who have a 3.00 GPA for that period. The “A” Honor Roll consists of those students who have a 3.670 average for that period. The “Straight A” Honor Roll consists of those students who had all A’s. No student is listed on any Honor Roll if he/she has a grade of D+ or below in any class.

The following table indicates the numerical value assigned to the letter grades.

A+ 4.000 A 4.000 A- 3.670

B+ 3.330 B 3.000 B- 2.670

C+ 2.330 C 2.000 C- 1.670 D+ 1.330 D 1.000 D- 0.670 F 0.000

ACADEMIC LETTER

Our purpose will be to promote academic excellence. The criteria and qualifications for the academic letter have been determined by the principal and the student council.

The student must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 graded classes.
The student must have a minimum grade point average of 3.600 for the year.
The student must not receive a grade of 2.000 or below in any class.
Office aides, teacher aides, and courses deemed remedial will not count toward qualification for Academic letter.

Students who meet the qualifications will be awarded a letter and gold bar for the first time they qualify for academic letter, and a gold bar for each year thereafter. If the student has a 4.0 grade point average, or above, he/she will be awarded a star. Awards will be presented at the Spring Awards Night.

USD #251 GRADING SCALE

A 100-93

A- 92-90

B+ 89-87

B 86-83

B- 82-80

C+ 79-77

C 76-73

C- 72-70

D+ 69-67

D 66-63

D- 62-60

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

The selection criteria for NHS will be based on a system that evaluates students’ performance according to the four criteria: scholarship, character, leadership, and service. A faculty committee will examine students’ applications and evaluate the candidates.

The minimum standard of scholarship shall be a cumulative 3.2 GPA.
The selection of each member to the chapter shall be by evaluation of the Selection Committee.

The selection committee will use the following criteria when applications are read and evaluated.

Leadership

The student who exercises leadership:

Demonstrates leadership in promoting school activities
Exercises influence on peers in upholding school ideals
Contributes ideas that improve the civic life of the school
Exemplifies positive attitudes and inspires positive behavior in others
Successfully holds school offices or positions of responsibility
Is thoroughly dependable in all responsibility accepted

Service

The student who serves:

Participates in outside activities: Scouts, church groups, volunteer services for the aged, poor, or disadvantaged
Participates freely in school service activities: fund raising, tutoring, assemblies, inter-class and inter-scholastic activities, etc.
Volunteers well-planned, dependable assistance willingly
Works well with others and is willing to take on difficult tasks cheerfully
Cheerfully and enthusiastically renders service at school
Does work without complaint
Shows courtesy by assisting visitors, teachers, and students

Character

The student of character:

Shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others
Constantly exemplifies desirable qualities of personality, for example; cheerfulness, friendliness, poise, stability, and reliability
Upholds principles of morality and ethics
Cooperates by complying with school regulations, adheres to the Student Handbook
Demonstrates the highest standards of honesty and reliability
Takes criticism willingly and accept recommendations graciously

Note: Any student who has any documented violation of these principles or school policies by the teaching staff or the administration may be in jeopardy of not being admitted into NHS.

Application

Students will be expected to turn in a complete application that is neat, clear, and comprehensive. Furthermore, students need to be aware that all of their actions, attitudes, and decisions leave either a positive or negative impression on the administration and faculty. Students selected to NHS are those students who consistently demonstrate all of the above criteria at the highest level. NHS membership is a privilege, not a right.

HEALTH

If a student becomes ill or has an accident during the school day, he/she is to report to the principal’s office. The students’ parent will be notified and they and the principal will determine the appropriate action.

LUNCH ROOM PROCEDURES

Students will be assigned a time to go to lunch. The teacher in charge of the class will accompany the students to lunch. Students will line up at the kitchen door in the order they arrive - no cutting in line will be allowed. Students will eat lunch and return to class when the teacher picks them up from the lunch room. Students will not be allowed to leave the lunch room during lunch. The students will have about twenty minutes to eat and will spend this time with their class. Those students bringing their lunch must eat with their class at the assigned time. All students must report to the lunchroom, whether they eat or not.

Northern Heights High School has a “closed” lunch. Students may not leave the building to eat. Students may not have family members or friends bring them meals from fast food restaurants, or other types of meals. No carbonated beverages purchased from the machines are allowed in the lunch room.

BREAKFAST/LUNCHES

All USD #251 attendance centers serve breakfast and Type A hot lunches to all students and teachers who wish to avail themselves of this service. Students may eat lunches any day they desire to do so. In order to keep accounting to a minimum, students will be required to make deposits on meal accounts in the high school office, before and after school. Students will be allowed to change NO MORE THAN TWO MEALS on their meal account. Students will only be allowed to charge their own account.

ILLEGAL CONTRABAND

Students are not allowed to use, store, or carry alcohol, drugs, or drug related equipment to school. Legal authorities will be contacted if drugs are found. Objects (including knives and guns) that can be used as a weapon, or could cause injury to other students or teachers, are not to be in possession of the student or in lockers. Being in the possession of a firearm on school property shall be cause for expulsion.

LIBRARY

The mission of the library media center is to ensure that students and staff are effective users of information. To accomplish this mission, the library promotes reading, and provides access to worldwide resources. To use the Internet, students must have on file, the Acceptable Use Policy signed by both the student and a parent or guardian.

Teachers are encouraged to use the library’s resources and to schedule the library for class use. They are also encouraged to co-plan with the librarian to design activities which will develop students’ information and problem-solving skills.

Students will maintain a studious environment. To protect the library’s resources and technology, students will leave food, candy, and beverages in their lockers.

PLAGIARISM

Plagiarism is using another’s work or idea and passing it off as one’s own. If a student uses another’s work, he/she must give credit to the person or to the source. If the student does not give credit, the student is attempting to pass the work off as his/her own. Depending on the severity of the plagiarism, a teacher may reduce the grade given for the assignment, give no credit for the assignment, ask the student to rewrite or redo the assignment, or give a reduced grade for the entire course.

LOCKERS AND LOCKS

Lockers are assigned by the office at the beginning of the school year. If , for some reason, the student would like to change lockers, he/she are to contact the principal. Security of personal property is the individual responsibility of each student. A locker with lock is available for every student. Students are required to use a school issued lock, they are not allowed to bring their own locks. The administration urges all students to keep their hall and P.E. lockers locked at all times. Generally speaking, large sums of money and articles of considerable value should not be brought to school. The school is not responsible for stolen or lost articles. Be sure locker doors are closed and all books and papers are inside before leaving lockers. All book bags should also be stored in lockers, not carried to class. Lockers are a permanent part of the building and are the property of the school. Therefore, examination and periodic locker checks are legal, when deemed necessary by the administration. All students enrolled in physical education classes, or participating in a school athletic activity will be assigned lockers in the appropriate locker room. All of these students will be given locks to put on their lockers. Students should keep their lockers locked at all times when they are not in the locker room.

MONEY RAISING PROJECTS

The Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior classes, and each club are permitted to hold one (1) major money raising project per year. Events such as plays, ball games, etc. are not considered money raising programs since their primary objective is not financial.

PERMITS AND PASSES

No student is permitted out of the classroom during the period without a hall pass. The Student Handbook, signed by the teacher, will serve as a hall pass. Students out of class without their Student Handbook will be assigned detention. Teachers and the principal have the right to deny use of passes to students if, in their judgment, a pass is not needed.

If a student wishes to see a teacher during any period, the student must arrange for this in advance. Students will not receive a pass to see another student.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

Displays of affection at school or at school functions are not permitted in the school building or on school grounds. Northern Heights High School has adopted the “HANDS OFF” policy for the students enrolled at NHHS. “HANDS OFF” includes any display of affection that goes beyond hand-holding in school, on school grounds or at school sponsored events and activities. Teachers will warn students and report those warnings to the office. The second warning will result in detention time.

HEADPHONES/BEEPERS/CELL PHONES

With the proliferation of personal electronic equipment by all members of society, we believe our focus should be towards responsible use of these devices, i.e.: iPods, MP3 players, cell phones etc. Use of these devices in class is at the discretion of individual teachers. Cell phones should be set on silent mode during class, as they would be if you were attending any type of meeting. (Students should not be receiving or sending texts or phone calls during class.) Any student in possession of headphones, beepers, cell phones or other electronic devices without said teacher’s approval will be asked to turn it into the office. First Offense – device will be given back at the end of the school day. Second Offense – device must be picked up by the parent/guardian. Third Offense – device will be returned at the principal’s discretion. Misuse of electronic devices during school hours will result in more severe punishment, i.e.: cyberbullying, sexting, unauthorized photography, accessing social media etc.

SPORTSMANSHIP

The idea of sportsmanship permeates virtually every aspect of our culture. The ethic of fair play may be witnessed in all facets of life. However, its origin has been firmly established in sports as a concept and as a pragmatic training ground for good citizenship and high behavioral standards.

Northern Heights High School is a first rate school with high academic standards: in other words, it is a “Class Act”. The following “Sportsmanship Code” exemplifies class; therefore, every member of the student body is expected to follow this code and demonstrate that they attend a school with class. This sportsmanship code complies with KSHSAA Rule 52.

Be courteous to opponents, fans, and cheerleaders.
Cheer for your team and not against opponents. All cheers and yells from fans should be positive in nature and geared toward your team and fans. Actions that are considered by the administration to be rude and discourteous will be prohibited.
Exercise self control at all times. Respect and abide by the official’s decision.
Maintain personal integrity and conduct yourself at all times in such a manner as to display character in every action and be a credit to yourself, your school and your community.
All banners and signs should be in good taste and not personal, negative, vulgar, or unsportsmanlike.
Respect the host school’s property and the public property of other communities. Fans, students, and cheerleaders should refrain from stomping and kicking bleachers.)
Learn to win with character and lose with dignity. Never use derisive chants or cheers at your opponents when you feel you have won the game.
Treat all your opponents as you would like to be treated.

SMOKING AND DRINKING REGULATIONS

Smoking and/or drinking of intoxicants by students in the building, on school grounds, or in automobiles parked adjacent to the grounds at any time is prohibited. Being in possession of alcohol and/or tobacco products at school, on school grounds, or at a school function is prohibited. Suspensions will be given for breaking the policy.

CONTAINERS

No drinking containers may be brought into the school. This includes glass bottles, squeeze bottles, drinking cups, etc.

SCHOOL PARTIES

Only Northern Heights High School students and dates are permitted to attend school sponsored social functions, parties, picnics, dances, etc. No student is permitted to leave a school dance and return. (In other words, when a student leaves the building in which a dance is held, he is not permitted to re-enter.)

A special permit, which must be obtained from the principal, is required before an outside individual is allowed to attend a school dance. No Junior High students will be admitted.

Each class and organization is allowed to hold one party of a social nature each year. The sponsors will be present and in charge of these events and are responsible to see that the building and any school equipment that is used is cleaned up and returned to the condition in which it was found, prior to leaving the building at the conclusion of the party. In the case of Prom, it may be permissible to defer part of this job until the next day if it is not a school day and if it would not be practical to attempt to complete the job that same night. Check with the principal if you think this constitutes a problem.

Closing time for any parties, which are held on a night preceding a school day, shall be 10:00pm. Parties held on weekends will close at 11:00pm except for major events in which permission can be granted to run the party until midnight.

TARDY

At the beginning of the school day, if a student is more than 10 minutes late, it will be considered an absence. If a student is less than ten minutes late to class the student will be considered tardy.

EARLY OUT APPLICATION

1^st Semester – Applications will be accepted starting with the first day of classes and ending with the second Friday in September. 2^nd Semester – Applications will be accepted starting December 1^st and ending with the first Friday in January.

Emergency applications will be subject to review by the Administration and Board of Education. This will require the parents or guardians to meet with the Administration and Board of Education to present their case for early out consideration. **All applications will be screened by the Principal and Counselor and may not be approved**

Three allowable reasons for early out:

Family hardship (death or disability of a family member requiring student’s help at home or financially.
Student wanting to attend college, FHTC, or other higher institution of learning, while also attending high school (credits, ability, etc.)
Student illness making it impossible for attendance at school.

GUIDELINES FOR EARLY OUT

Must attend school so that state and district graduation requirements are met.
Must have parental permission.
The parent and student must give strong consideration of the educational well being of the student prior to signing the work permit.
The job will allow the student sufficient rest, time for homework, and school attendance. The job will not interfere with the student’s academic progress.
The administration and counselor will periodically check to see that the student is still working. The student will provide validation from an employer and if student is not working, the student will enroll in classes at NHHS during the early out time frame.
All students must be enrolled in six (6) credits and be classified as a senior. Late entries are not considered as part of this policy.

LANGUAGE

The use of profanity in today’s society has become so commonplace that many do not even realize they are swearing. It is possible to carry on a conversation without the use of curse words. First language offense will result in a one-hour detention. The second language offense will result in a two-hour detention . The third language offense will result in 1 day of ISS. Any additional offenses will result in OSS.

TELEPHONES

Students are not to use the telephone during class periods. Students will not be called to the telephone during school hours, except in cases of emergency. Please do not ask the office personnel to break this rule. The office phones are not intended for student use. Use of the office phones will be permitted in cases of an emergency only.

BELL SCHEDULE

Regular Schedule

1^st Hour 7:55– 8:48

2^nd Hour 8:52 – 9:45

3^rd Hour 9:49 – 10:42

4^th Hour 10:46 – 11:39

5^th Hour 11:43 – 12:52

6^th Hour 12:56 – 1:49

7^th Hour 1:53 – 2:46

Seminar 2:50 -3:10

SEMINAR

The main purpose of the Seminar Period is to provide students time with a faculty mentor in a small group setting. Seminar time will be devoted primarily to academic counseling, providing opportunity for individual help from teachers, and character building initiatives. Seminar is a protected academic class period, not just a study hall, therefore, students and teachers will be expected to utilize seminar for academic purposes only.

MEDICATION

There are very strict guidelines for the supervision and administration of medications at school. We will act in strict compliance with Board policy in these matters.

TEXTBOOKS

Rental/Purchase: All students may use texts on a rental basis. Statements for rental fees will be determined at the time of enrollment. Payment is due at that time. Any or all texts may be purchased by the student/parent from the district at the full purchase price.

Inventory-Check Out and Check In: A district and building inventory will be kept of all rental books or sets of books. A record of book usage will be kept in all buildings for all students. The District name will be stamped in all books and the books will be numbered. A record will be kept showing the number of each book issued to each student. Each teacher is responsible for checking out the textbooks to the students in his/her class and for noting in the record the condition of the book when it is checked out to the student. Each teacher is also responsible for checking the textbook back in at the end of the required student usage of the textbook. Condition of the textbook will also be noted on the check out/check in sheet at that time. The student is responsible for the textbooks and workbooks assigned to them.

Replacement for Lost or Damaged books: If a book or workbook is lost or damaged beyond normal wear and tear by the student, replacement costs will have to be paid by the student responsible for the book. The law provides that a system of fines and penalties may be established for lost or damaged books. The cost to the student for a lost or damaged text will be assessed based on the following and a letter to the parents will be issued.

1-2 year old textbook – 80% of Replacement cost

3-4 year old textbook – 60% of Replacement cost

4+ year old textbook – 50% of Replacement cost

Books include workbook, textbook, reference book, library books, or special skill books issued to a student by the school for his/her use either at school or to be taken home.

GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR

A Goal of Northern Heights High School’s educational program is to encourage independence and responsibility, which are characteristic of the mature person. Since an orderly atmosphere is essential if learning is to take place, these guidelines are for the personal welfare of the student, as well as for the common good of the entire school.

When problems are recognized with a student’s behavior, the discipline guidelines provide objective guidance for school administration in dealing with the problems. The discipline guidelines are organized in three categories. Category III contains the most severe and serious student behaviors. The severity of the behaviors decreases through Categories II and I.

Teacher Authority

Teachers are expected to maintain a proper school atmosphere. This responsibility extends beyond their classroom and their particular assignment of pupils. Pupils who refuse to comply with reasonable requests of any teacher discharging this responsibility will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

Grounds for suspension or expulsion

The board of education of any school district may suspend or expel, or by regulation authorize any certificated employee or committee of certificated employees to suspend or expel, any pupil guilty of any of the following:

Willful violation of any published regulation for student conduct adopted or approved by the board of education;
Conduct which substantially disrupts, impedes or interferes with the operation of any public school;
Conduct which endangers the safety of others or which substantially impinges upon or invades the rights of others at school, on school property, or at a school supervised activity;
Conduct which, if the pupil is an adult, constitutes the commission of a felony or, if the pupil is a juvenile, would constitute the commission of a felony if committed by an adult;
Conduct at school, on school property, or at a school supervised activity which, if the pupil is an adult, constitutes the commission of a misdemeanor or, if the pupil is a juvenile, would constitute the commission of a misdemeanor if committed by an adult: or
Disobedience of an order of a teacher, peace officer, school security officer or other school authority when such disobedience can reasonably be anticipated to result in disorder, disruption or interference with the operation of any public school or substantial and material impingement upon or invasion of the rights of others.

USD 251

Internet Acceptable Use Agreement

We are pleased to provide network services for student access to information resources, software, and communication tools for instruction, research and collaboration.

These guidelines are provided to help ensure that network resources are used in a manner consistent with the goals of the district and that the network is used responsibly and legally.

The use of the Internet is a privilege not a right, and inappropriate use may result in restricted or suspended access.

The district may prohibit access to any site or resource that compromises personal privacy or safety, contains offensive or obscene material, promotes illegal activities or does not fulfill the mission of the district.

Inappropriate Material

The district cannot guarantee that its filtering software will block access to inappropriate materials in all instances. Parents and students are advised that some materials accessed over the Internet may be illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or offensive to some people.

Safety and Privacy

Access to online social networking websites is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, MySpace, Xanga, and Facebook.
Students will not use the Internet to share personal information or to communicate with strangers. This includes chat rooms.
A student may reveal his or her personal information on reliable web sites for educational reasons such as classroom research or applications for scholarships.

E-MAIL

Students may not use email until a school account is made available.
Electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private.

Users will follow these netiquette guidelines for communication:

Do not send any documents, photographs or messages that are obscene or sexually explicit.
Do not conduct private business.
Be polite and respectful in all communication.
Do not send any messages that are threatening, harassing or violent.

Users are expected to obey copyright laws. Copyright means that only the artist or writer has the right to copy, modify, distribute and perform the work. Specifically, users should follow these guidelines.

Do not copy or install commercial software.
Give credit to sources in all your work. Give credit to any material you may use, including pictures, video, audio, graphics, etc.
Copyrighted material should not be used for private business or personal gain.

Vandalism

Vandalism will result in a loss of computer privileges. Vandalism is defined as a malicious attempt to destroy hardware, software, data or the network.

Personal Business

Users will not use the network to conduct business or purchase goods or services.

USD #251 BULLYING POLICY

Bullying will not be tolerated on school property, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event. Bullying is defined as repeatedly and purposely attempting to control or intimidate another person by verbal or physical acts. The person being bullied is often unable to defend himself or herself.

Bullying behaviors include, but are not limited to:

Physically hurting (slapping, kicking, tripping, or punching)
Threatening to hurt someone
Excluding someone socially
Destruction or defacing of personal property
Insulting others
Teasing in a mean way
Name calling
Starting rumors
Gossiping

Cyberbullying will also not be tolerated. Cyberbullying is when children or teens bully each other using the internet, cell phones, or other cyber technology. This can include, but not limited to:

Sending mean text, e-mail, or instant messages
Posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on web sites
Using someone else’s user name to spread rumors or lies about someone

For students who display bullying behavior, the following may be implemented:

Appropriate consequences for behavior. Possible consequences include:

- Out of School Suspension (3-5 days)
- Referral to local agencies
- Long term suspension
- Law enforcement called
- Expulsion for rest of the year
- Expulsion for 186 school days
- Payment for damages (in conjunction with other consequences)

Counseling for student displaying bullying behavior
Parental involvement

Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to bullying or who has witnessed a bullying act should discuss the alleged bullying with the immediate teachers, bus driver, para, aide, or principal. Any complaint must then be relayed immediately to the building principal.

USD #251 SCHOOL BUS REGULATIONS

SCOPE. The requirements of this regulation shall apply to all passengers when transported in a school bus or school activity bus.
The bus driver shall be in charge of all passengers while they are riding, loading, or unloading from the bus.
The bus driver shall have authority to assign a seat to each student passenger.
Students shall not stand in the traveled portion of a roadway while waiting on a bus.
Students shall not extend any part of their body out of bus windows.
Students shall not get on or off the bus or move about while the bus is moving.
Smoking, chewing, or any use of tobacco inside a bus shall be prohibited.
Intoxicating liquor or alcohol or illegal drugs shall not be consumed or carried in a bus.
Animals (pets) shall not be transported in a bus.
0. No weapons of any type, except side arms carried by a law enforcement officer, shall be transported on a bus.
1. The bus driver is in charge of the pupils on the bus. Pupils will obey the driver at all times.
2. Pupils must be on time, as the bus cannot wait for those who are tardy. Pupil behavior at any bus stop is expected to be the same as while riding the bus.
3. Unnecessary conversation with the driver is prohibited. Outside of ordinary conversation, classroom conduct is to be observed. Fighting, obscenities, or vulgarities in speech or actions, bothering other riders or the driver and/or damaging the bus is prohibited.
4. Pupils shall not throw waste paper or other rubbish on the floor or out of the windows of the bus.
5. Any damage to the bus is to be reported to the driver immediately.
6. Pupils shall not disembark from the bus at any point other than their residence or designated drop-off point unless prior approval with the school office has been made. The office will notify the bus driver of any changes.
7. Keep books, packages, coats, and all other items/objects out of the bus aisles.
8. Pupils will remain quiet when approaching a railroad stop.
9. In case of a road emergency, pupils are to remain in the bus.
0. Entering and exiting the bus through the emergency door is prohibited, EXCEPT IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION OR WITH PERMISSION FROM DRIVER OR SPONSOR.

Northern Heights Athletic/Activity Policy

There will be no deviations of rules from one student-athlete to another.

If a student-athlete is involved in a situation, inside or outside of school, in which his/her behavior reflects poorly upon the school and his/her team, the Head Coach, Athletic Director, and Principal will determine dismissal.

There will be specific regulations for the following areas:

A. Eligibility E. School and practice attendance

B. Alcohol, tobacco, and drugs F. Athletic trips and contests

C. Good standing G. School equipment

Sportsmanship H. Other Rules
Eligibility

The eligibility of the student-athlete will be determined by the guidelines established by KSHSAA, USD #251, and Northern Heights High School. In order to enter and participate in any activity you must maintain certain academic standards, comply with school rules for student behavior, and meet all eligibility requirements.

B. Alcohol, tobacco, drugs

The use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs by student-athletes during the season in which they are participating in an interscholastic sport or activity is prohibited. If a coach finds out that a student is using or is in possession of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs, the following procedures will occur:

1. First Violation: The student-athlete will be ineligible for the next two weeks of competition and subject to punishment, as the coaches, administration, and team see fit.

2. Second Violation: The student-athlete will be immediately dismissed from the team for the remainder of the season.

C. Good standing

All student-athletes must remain in good standing with faculty and administration. Detentions, disrespectfulness, rudeness, tardiness, absences, etc. will not be tolerated and will be dealt with by the coach and administration on an individual basis.

D. Sportsmanship

Sportsmanship is one of the major goals of the Northern Heights High School athletic / activity programs. Student-athletes are to set a good example of sportsmanship at all times. Student-athletes displaying poor sportsmanship are subject to punishment and possible suspension by the administration or coaching staff.

E. School and practice attendance

Whenever a student-athlete is participating in an official practice session a coach or sponsor must be present.
Any student-athlete wishing to participate in any activity is required to attend a full day of school. Acceptable reasons for missing school or practice include, but are not limited to: Doctor/Dental/Eye appointments, illness, injury, funerals, college visit, court appearances, and school sponsored activities. These absences must be documented. The school and coach must also be notified.
If a student-athlete is under any type of suspension from school, they may not participate in practices or games.
An unexcused absence from practice will result in the following:
1. First Violation: The student-athlete will be ineligible for the next competition and subject to punishment, as the coaches and team see fit.
2. Second Violation: The student-athlete will be immediately dismissed from the team for the remainder of the season.
Any time a student-athlete misses a practice, he/she should expect to forfeit a proportional amount of playing time in the next contest. This should not necessarily be viewed as a punishment for missing a practice. This is simply an opportunity for a more deserving student-athlete to step in and get his/her opportunity. It is important that the student-athlete is at practice each day. If he/she is not there someone else is getting more opportunities than he/she are to play. It is expected that student-athletes will be at practice every day.
Any time a student-athlete is aware that he/she may miss a practice; the coach should be informed well in advance by the student-athlete. The coach will declare the absence as “excused” or “unexcused” which will allow the student-athlete to make a final decision about missing practice. Whenever a practice has been missed, the student-athlete is expected to contact the head coach upon arriving back at school the next morning to give an account of his/her whereabouts.

F. Athletic trips and contests

Any student-athlete making any trip sponsored by Northern Heights High School shall go and return by the same mode of transportation. You may only ride home with your parents, not relatives, unless previous arrangements have been made through the school. Your parents must sign you out with a coach before you can ride home with them. You are not allowed to leave an activity unless you have been signed out.

G. School equipment

Each athlete has the responsibility for taking care of school athletic equipment.
Athletic equipment lost or damaged at any time must be paid for by the student.
In order for an athlete to receive practice and game equipment and/or uniforms for the current season equipment from all previous activities must be accounted for.

H. Other Rules

There are various other team rules student-athletes will be asked to follow being a member of his/her activity. In the interest of keeping this document short, they will not all be listed.