GRANT-DEUEL
JUNIOR & SENIOR
HIGH SCHOOL
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2009-2010
WELCOME
The ultimate
goal of education is to produce students who have the skills, knowledge, and
self-discipline which will help them become effective citizens. In achieving this, the school provides
students with opportunities that allow them to grow academically and
socially. It is the responsibility of
the students to put forth an admirable effort and maintain a high level of
behavioral standards.
The Student
Handbook explains the rules and procedures that have been established in order
to maintain an optimal learning environment.
Please, read through the handbook and familiarize yourself with it. Each individual is responsible for his/her
actions and will be held accountable for any violations of the rules and
regulations.
Our school
extends a warm welcome to you and hopes you will always be aware of our
expectations and traditions. Remember,
if you have any questions feel free to contact the school.
School
Song
Cheer, cheer
for GDHS
Wake up the
echoes cheering their best
Send the
loyal cheers on high
Shake down
the thunder from the sky
What though
the odds be great or small
The blue and
white will win over all
While our
loyal sons are marching
Onward to
victory. Fight!
The
Grant-Deuel Senior and Junior High School is dedicated to meeting the needs of
all students in order for them to become responsible decision makers and
productive citizens. The school will
provide an environment conductive to learning and a staff committed to provide
opportunities which promote academic and social growth. We hope all students strive to reach their
potential and become life-long learners.
STATEMENT
OF OBJECTIVES
The school
program will provide its student:
1. A background for college or technical
education by offering courses to meet individual needs for chosen fields.
2. A well-rounded, general education for those
students who do not continue their education beyond high school.
3. A variety of co-curricular activities in
which students may choose to participate.
4. Well-balanced school lunches at a minimum
cost.
5. Classrooms with proper light, temperature,
and ventilation conductive to good health.
6. Guidance and counseling concerning present
needs and future plans.
7. Informed, educated, and enthusiastic
teachers.
8.
NONDISCRIMINATION
STATEMENT
The
Inquiries
concerning the application of Title VI, Title IX, or Section 504 may be
referred to the Director, Department of Education, and Office for Civil Rights,
The following
grievance procedure is available to students who feel they have been
discriminated against according to one of the above titles.
STUDENT
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE
A grievance
is defined as a complaint lodged by a student with a member of the staff or
administration alleging one or more of the following: (1) that a school rule: (2) that the application of a school
rule: (3) that the procedure used to
arrive at a punishment: discriminates against a student on the basis of his/her
race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, handicap, national origin or ancestry. Grant-Deuel receives federal funds and these
grievance actions are applicable to implementation of federal programs.
Grievances are processed through 3 steps:
(A) to the Director of Federal Programs:
(B) to the principal: and (C) to the superintendent, in that order. On all three levels an informal conference is
to be held within five school days of the date of filing the complaint so that
no student’s complaint shall consume more than 15 school days’ time in
all. The burden of proof is upon the
student to show that a rule is discriminatory or that a discriminatory
procedure (or lack of due process) has been perpetrated. The final resolution of the grievance is to
be in writing at the principal ship level and designed to provide that student
with basis for resolution of the problem as originally stated in the complaint.
STUDENT
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
If
a student feels he/she has been discriminated against because of his/her race,
color, creed, religion, age, sex, handicap, national origin or ancestry, he/she
should present it in writing to:
LEVEL
1: The Director of Federal Programs
should be scheduled for an informal discussion of said grievance. It is expected that many grievances may be
resolved at this level. The Director of
Federal Programs must hold a conference within five school days time of the
date of filing.
LEVEL
2: If a student is not satisfied with
the resolution made at level one, he/she may appeal in writing to the principal
for pupil services for an informal conference and discussion of said grievances.
LEVEL
3: If a student is not satisfied with
the resolution made at level two, he/she may appeal to the superintendent for
and informal conference and discussion of said grievance. The decision at this level is binding and
cannot be appealed unless the superintendent so indicates.
A
student grievance form is attached or may be picked up in the office.
STUDENT/PARENT
COMPLAINTS
The
board recognizes that there may be conditions in the school district that are
in need of improvement or change.
Students/parents should have some means by which their concerns may be
effectively expressed, considered, and dealt with fairly. Such means, if sell conceived and understood
in advance, can do much to maintain harmonious relationships between the
school, students, parents, and community.
The
Board desires student/parent complaints and grievances to be resolved through
orderly processes and at the lowest possible level, but that channels be
provided for eventual hearing by the Board in instances when it becomes
necessary. The following is the
procedure for complaints:
1. Any student, parent, or guardian will be
provided the opportunity to discuss with the student’s teacher an incident/rule
which is considered unjust or unfair.
2. If the incident remains unresolved, the
student, parent, guardian, or teacher may bring the matter to the principal’s
attention for this consideration and action.
3. Also, the student may bring a matter of
general student concern to the attention of class officers or the student
council (in grades where such are elected) for possible presentation to the
principal.
4. If still unresolved, the matter may be
brought to the superintendent to his consideration.
5. Complaints that remain unresolved following
action of the superintendent may be referred in writing to the Board for
review.
Steps
1 and 3 of the procedure must take place within 5 days following the unjust or
unfair incident/rule. Step 2 must occur
within 5 days proceeding Steps 1 or 3.
Step 4 must take place 5 days after Step 2. Finally, Step 5 must occur at the school
board meeting that proceeds the superintendent’s decision.
The
Board’s decision will be final unless an appeal hearing is requested.
It is the
district’s policy that sexual harassment is illegal, unacceptable and shall not
be tolerated in any form: adult on adult, student on student, student on adult
or adult on student. Any employee or student will be subject to disciplinary
action including possible termination fro violation of this policy.
Definition
Any unwelcome
sexual advances, solicitation or sexual activity by promise of rewards,
coercion of sexual activity by threat of punishment, verbal sexist remarks or
physical sexual assaults constitute sexual harassment. Any sexually oriented
conduct has the effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s
academic or work performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or
offensive employment or education environment regardless of intent.
Responsibility
School
district officers, employees and students are responsible for maintaining a
working and learning environment free from sexual harassment. Workshops and
activities will be provided by the school district to explain the policy and
the laws. Careful scrutiny will be undertaken of all allegations of sexual
harassment. False allegations that are malicious or ill-founded may constitute
libel or slander. Copies of the policy will be available at all administrative
offices.
Complaints
Any
employees who believe that he or she has been a subject of sexual harassment by
a district employee or officer should report this incident immediately, or
within thirty (30) days at the latest, to his or her direct supervisor. If the
employee’s supervisor in involved in the activity, the complaint should be made
to the supervisor’s immediate supervisor.
Students should report such
incidents to the guidance counselor or the student’s building administrator.
If a complaint is not in writing, the
administrator receiving the complaint must create a written summary of the
complaint must create a written summary of the complaint and document any
action taken. Copies of the complaint of summary and the report on the action
taken shall be provided to the superintendent and the complainant within ten
(10) working days of receipt.
All reported incidents will be
thoroughly reviewed by the appropriate supervisor and an attempt will be made
to resolve the matter at the lowest possible level. Should it be deemed
necessary, an outside investigator will be employed by the school district for
the purpose of determining the facts. Should the facts support the complaint, a
hearing could be conducted before the School Board or a Hearing Officer
selected by the School Board. Any findings could lead to disciplinary action.
If an employee or student files a complaint because of dissatisfaction with the
handling of the complainant, he/she may utilize any applicable grievance
procedure.
Any retaliation taken by the alleged
harasser will not be tolerated. Direct or indirect retaliation ground for
expulsion of a student or termination of employment. Adoption date: August 1993
Legal Reference: SD Executive Order 81-08 Federal Title IX (1972 Education
Amendments)
A full range of special programs for
students with any handicapping condition is available. Some programs include
special ed classroom, resource room, student monitoring, speech and language
services, educational/psychological evaluation, modifications of programs, and
any other programs mandated by the school district, the South Dakota Division
of Education, PL 94-142, DL 99-457, and any other required programs.
All referrals
must go through the Superintendent’s office for any of the special education
programs.
The following
should be noted when making a referral:
A teacher who has a concern about a
child can request a teacher’s assistant team meeting. The team will meet to
give the classroom teacher suggestions to implement. The team will meet a
second time to discuss the process.
Art 7-9 Band 7-12 Economics
Weight Lifting Computer 1 Astronomy
Language Arts Math Physical Science
Geography
Biology Algebra 1 & Algebra 2 Spanish 1 & Spanish 2
Choir Social Studies LAMD
Geometry Am. Studies
Earth Science Government Physical
Education
Athletics Fine Arts Health
Sociology Psychology
Drama Music Appreciation
Football Basketball
Volleyball
Track Band Choir
Fine Arts Cheerleading FCCLA
Yearbook Oral
Interp Plays
Student Council National Honor Society
Students will make their course
selection at the time of registration. Changes in their program may be made
during the first three (3) days of classes. Students may drop a course during
this time only after consulting with the teacher and Dean of Students and after
receiving permission from the Dean of Students. No year-long designated class
may be dropped at semester time unless an extreme situation exists.
Homework is a necessary part of each
pupil’s educational program. Each student must be expected to spend time in
addition to scheduled class instruction to achieve satisfactory work. Some
assignment/projects are long range in nature and require planned study time for
their completion. The skill of planning is a must for students continuing their
education or entering the work force.
Requirements for graduation:
twenty-two (22) credits. A unit of credit is earned when necessary requirements
from the Department of Education are met.
Yearbook Lettering Qualifications
Three of the five following requirements are needed by each annual staff
member to letter in the yearbook. Participation in a
fundraiser for the yearbook, supervised by the advisor.
**Providing pictures or taking pictures of at least 2 events related to
activities held at Grant-Deuel or where Grant-Deuel students are participating
in.
**Completing 2 of the assigned pages on the Webease website, where the
yearbook is accessed by meeting the deadline. At least 2 pages must be
completed up to satisfaction by assigned deadlines.
**Participating in the annual staff meetings with ideas, suggestions and
helping out whenever annual staff is needed for the photographer when he comes
to Grant-Deuel to take pictures.
**Working on the yearbook for September throughout the school year and
finishing it at the end of May, following graduation.
Students in
The requirements
are:
Sophomores---------------5.0 credits
Juniors---------------------11.0
credits
Seniors---------------------16.0
credits
Any student
who does not meet these requirements will be placed in the class where the
requirements are fulfilled. Each student shall carry classes to fill out their
schedule.
Valedictorian
is chosen based upon cumulative grade point average and honoree is denoted in
program and recognized with a medal at ceremony.
Honor
Graduates are chosen based upon cumulative GPA and denoted by wearing cords
over their robes and special denotation in the program.
Silver Cord: GPA at or above 3.5
Gold Cord: GPA at or above 3.75
A serious attempt by the staff is
made to evaluate student’s progress in the best possible manner. The following
grading system has been devised for this purpose.
A 92-100% The student is more than meeting the
demands of the teacher and competes work on time. The work is of superior
quality and shows mastery of the subject matter. The student participates in
class discussion, is well-behaved, and exerts a positive influence on others.
B 82-91% The student presents work that is
complete and of superior quality. The student meets the demands of the teacher
and is a positive role model. The student shows above average achievement.
C 72-81% The student does satisfactory on the
required work. The work is compete and on time and the student is showing
effort and average achievement.
D 65-71% The student is not completing assigned
work, is inconsistent, and is not putting forth effort. The work is below the
expectations of the teacher. The student is showing below average achievement,
but shows some evidence of growth.
F below 65% The
subject is displaying unsatisfactory achievement and shows little interest in
subject matter. Academic growth is
minimum and improvement is needed.
MID –
QUARTER REPORTS & REPORT CARDS
Students will
receive a report from the school. This
will have the grades of the classes the student is enrolled in.
GRADE
POINT SCALE
The following
is the grading scale, corresponding letter grades, and grade points:
|
Minimum Percentage |
Grade Symbol |
Grade Point |
|
100 |
A+ |
4.00 |
|
95.5 |
A |
4.00 |
|
91.5 |
A- |
4.00 |
|
87.5 |
B+ |
3.00 |
|
84.5 |
B |
3.00 |
|
81.5 |
B- |
3.00 |
|
77.5 |
C+ |
2.00 |
|
74.5 |
C |
2.00 |
|
71.5 |
C- |
2.00 |
|
68.5 |
D+ |
1.00 |
|
66.5 |
D |
1.00 |
|
64.5 |
D- |
1.00 |
|
0 |
F |
0.00 |
I
(Incomplete) is given to a student if some portion of the work remains
unfinished because of excused absences from class.
An incomplete
must be made up within the first week following the marketing period in which
the incomplete was given. The student
may present a signed statement from the teacher granting an extension of
time. In only extreme cases can credit
be earned on the incompletes shall be changed to an “F”.
HONOR
HONOR
DISTINCTION-
Maintaining a grade point average of 3.50 or more in subjects
MERIT –
Maintaining grade point of 3.0 average or more in subjects.
An academic
subject is one in which credit is given to be counted toward graduation. Students who are truant and are not good
citizens are automatically eliminated from the Honor Roll recognition.
Cumulative grades which equal high enough to be on the honor roll but have at
least 1 “D” or below will not receive recognition for honor roll.
The honor
roll will be released at the end of the quarter for each quarter’s work.
TRANSFER
OF ACADEMIC CREDIT
WITHDRAWAL
The procedure
for withdrawal or transferring is as follows:
MAKE-UP
CLASSES
For all
classes receiving make-up credit, an Achievement Series test will be given by
subject area instructor. The test is set up arbitrarily according to at least
30% of state standards and graded by the computer system simultaneously to
taking the exam. A grade of 80% of higher must be presented to the Dean of
Students to account transcript credit and grade for make-up class work. Testing
limited to 3 attempts; the test to be taken and passed before coursework is
graded, to determine if coursework needs to be retaken.
BAND
Grant-Deuel
offers one band for junior high and high school students. Band meets on Monday through Friday. During class, the bands prepare for football
games, basketball games, marching performances, concerts, and contest while
improving individual and group performance. A student cannot withdraw from band
except at semester time.
Band
members are expected to attend and play in the band at home games, concerts,
and contests. Any student who is unable
to play should have a written note from a parent explaining why the student is
unable to attend and excusing the student from performance before the
event. Any student who is at a game or
concert and chooses not to play with the band will receive detention. Playing at games is part of the commitment
when belonging to band. Students who
participate in sports and are suited up to play in the varsity game are
excused. Junior varsity players should
play during the half time performance.
Students
are also reminded that they are setting an example when performing in the band
and are representing Grant-Deuel. They
are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and positive manner.
GUIDANCE
The
guidance and counseling services available are individual counseling, group
counseling, career counseling, comprehensive group guidance, and parent
education. The Dean of Students office
hours are regular school hours M-F 8-4.
If you need to visit and the counselor is not available, other
arrangements can be made. Drop-in visits
are welcome, but it is more beneficial to call ahead and set up an appointment.
To reach the Dean of Students direct you may call (605) 623-4241 ext 304.
DRAMA
ACTIVITIES
Students
at
PARENT/TEACHER
CONFERENCES
Conferences
between the parent and teachers will be scheduled following the first and third
nine weeks of school. By visiting your
child’s teachers, information can be exchanged that helps all concerned.
Teachers are also available for meetings throughout the school year by
appointment. Parents are encouraged to communicate concerns at any time to
assist their child in completing requirements.
ADVERTISING
All
signs or other advertising displayed in the school building shall be posted only
after permission from the Superintendent is granted
BOYS
One or two
boys from the junior class are selected each year to attend Boys state. It is and American Legion sponsored activity
held on the campus of
The American
Legion Auxiliary sponsors one of two girls from the junior class form
NATIONAL
HONOR SOCIETY
In order for
a student to be inducted into the National Honor Society, the following
requirements must be met:
Selection is
made in the spring of each academic year after the application form has been
completed and returned to the advisor. Special denotation is given to
graduating seniors in the program of ceremony.
STUDENT/CITIZEN
OF THE MONTH
The Citizen
of the Month Award may be given to any student in grades 9-11 as chosen by the
faculty. To receive this award, a
student must display academic effort, a high level of proper behavior, and
concern for others. This award may be
won only once during the school year.
There is also
a 7-8 Citizen of the Month award using the same criteria.
STUDENT
OF THE QUARTER AWARD
Student of
the Quarter Award may be given to seniors only.
The student is chosen by junior/ senior faculty and given
quarterly. To receive this award, a
student must have at least a 2.50 GPA, show outstanding academic effort, and
display appropriate behavior. The
Student of the Year will be chosen from the Student of the Quarter winners.
PERFECT
ATTENDANCE
There will be
award and recognition at the end of the year for those students who have had
perfect attendance. Perfect attendance
will be defined as having been in school every day, all day with the only
exception being the involvement in a school sponsored activity, church class,
or immediate family funeral. Perfect
attendance will be rewarded at the end of each semester with being excluded
from taking final tests.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
If you want
to make an announcement for your club or activity, bring it to the school
office before
STUDY
HALLS
Study halls
are looked upon and will be treated the same as all other classes with the same
rules applying.
CHOOSING
CLASSES
Students are
urged to contact the Dean of Students before choosing their classes for the
upcoming school year. Students who
expect to enter college or tech school after graduation are warned to become
familiar with the entrance requirements early in their high school career and
to take subjects which will prepare them for what they expect to choose in
college or tech school.
All students
are interviewed for college preparation during their 8th grade year
to prepare them for choosing classes. Parents are encouraged to give input at
this time and must authorize the agreement of the student. Students are again
interviewed in the senior year to audit credits and transcripts before
graduation and in preparation for higher learning opportunities.
CHURCH
NIGHT
Under normal
circumstances there will be no school activities scheduled on Wednesday
nights. This will allow each student to
participate in church activities of their choice. However, if some activity must be rescheduled
and had to be done on a Wednesday night, it must be cleared through
administration.
Season passes
are provided to give each student an opportunity to see all home sporting
events at a minimum price. The ticket
may be purchased from the School Office
Fire drills
are done at regular intervals and required by law as an important safety
precaution. It is essential that when
the first signals given, everybody obeys orders promptly and clears the
building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible. The teacher in each classroom will give the
student instruction.
TELEPHONE
School phones
are for business only; personal calls may be made only after the student has
received permission from the principal or secretary. Students shall not be called to the phone
during the regular school hours except in emergency situations. Messages will be delivered to the student
during
TELEPHONE
NUMBER AT SCHOOL
You may reach
the school at the following number: 623-4241. The school is equipped with
voicemail and messages can be left at student/ family convenience. However, no
calls will be returned after normal business hours.
INSURANCE
Insurance to
cover accidents and hospitalization which may occur during the school hours
will be available to students whose parents wish this protection. Brochures will be given to students during
registration. Students who want the
insurance should return the application forms to the superintendent’s office as
soon as possible after receiving the forms.
LIBRARY
The library
is open and available to students each day from
LOCKERS
Lockers are
assigned by the office during registration.
Students are responsible to keep them clean and damage free. Combination locks are available in the office
if a student feels he/she needs to secure the locker. With or without a lock, students are
encouraged not to leave any valuables in lockers. If you do so, you do it at your own risk.
Information
concerning the closing of school during times of emergencies such as snow
storms can be secured by tuning to the news broadcasts over radio station
KDIO-Ortonville, 1390 on your dial, KWAT – Watertown, 950 on your dial, KELO
TV, Channel 3, KMSD – Milbank, 1510 on your dial, and KCGN – Milbank, 101.5 on
your FM dial.
HAZING
All students
are reminded that
Cars that are
driven to school by students must be parked in the north parking lot. Cars are used as transportation and not a
meeting place before a student is allowed to go to his / her car during the
school day. Cars must be parked north of
the telephone pole.
LUNCH
PROGRAM
School
lunches will be made available to each and every student. If the parents cannot pay the scheduled
price, they may contact the superintendent’s office and file an application for
reduced or free lunches according to the school schedule for reduced and free
lunches. Lunch tickets will not be
issued to the student, but you will receive a receipt showing the amount paid
and the student’s name. A check list of
students eating each day will be kept so there will be no problem with lost
tickets. All meals must be paid for in
advance at the beginning of each month.
Credit for meals missed will be given at the end of the school year.
LYCEUMS
From time to
time throughout the year, general lyceums will be held for all students. Visiting speakers, musical groups and entertainers
that visit our area will be asked to appear in these programs. Courtesy and respect for these entertainers
is required. Teachers will be required
to sit among the student body to maintain order.
ILLNESS
OR ACCIDENT
If any
student becomes ill or has an accident during school hours, parents shall be
notified and requested to pick up the student.
In cases where the parent cannot be reached, the student will be taken
home if a relative, guardian, or person designated by parent is there to care
for the student. It is the duty of the
student to report to the principal’s office if they should become ill during
the school hours. If the student leaves
the building without reporting first to the office, it will be considered an
unexcused absence.
OFFICE
ETIQUETTE
The office
is a busy place. The office personnel
are there to work with you. However,
students are urged not to loiter in the office and not to take things from the
office without permission of the administration or secretaries.
Multi Students
It is the policy of
NO STUDENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO RIDE WITH
ANOTHER STUDENT AT ANY TIME.
1.
Absolutely
no driving to multi unless the Principal talks to your parents ahead of time.
2.
Absolutely no other students with you if you do have
permission to drive.
3.
Absolutely no riding home from multi except on the
bus without your parents talking to the Principal ahead of time.
4.
Absolutely no leaving the multi once you arrive
without your parents talking to the Principal ahead of time.
Any infraction of these rules will result in
immediate removal from the Multi. Students will not be able to enroll in other
G-D classes as they will all ready be in progress, thus graduation will be
impossible for this years seniors and improbable for this years juniors.
On a day
that Grant-Deuel is in session and multi or Partnership is not in session
students will be responsible for attending class 1st hour and
attending activities planned by the school during that time, unless otherwise
communicated. Attendance policies will be enforced during these times.
Student Purchases
Purchases
made buy the students through the school, such as rings, pictures, etc., shall
be at the discretion of the students themselves. All things offered for sale to the student
will first be approved through the administration.
End of
Classes end
at
WEIGHT
LIFTING POLICY
The weight
room will only be open by an adult who is employed by the school. That same
adult will remain in the school while the students are lifting. The adult shall
clear and lock the weight room before he/ she leaves. There will need to be at
least two people in the weight room for lifting safety. Lifters will also need
to have a waiver signed by parents annually to be permitted to use the room
with a buddy.
Adopted
Lunch Break
After eating
lunch, students are allowed to occupy the gym providing they obey the
following:
1. No running
2. No hitting or striking others.
3. The area behind the curtains on the
stage is off limits.
4. Locker rooms are off limits.
A
Rest Rooms
Loitering in
rest rooms is not permitted. Students
are asked to help keep the rest rooms clean at all times. The public rest room located off the
cafeteria, may be used by the students during lunch hour. During the school day, use the rest rooms in
the section or the wing in which your classes are located.
School Parties or Dances
1. A request
for a party or dance must be given to the principal at least two weeks prior to
the request date.
2. All school parties must have a minimum of
three teacher chaperones and they will be assigned by the principal.
3. Parties
are to terminate by
4. Admission
fee must be approved by Administration.
5. Dress
codes will be determined by the officers in charge, the advisor, and
administration.
6. Thirty
minutes after the dance or party begins, the outside doors are to be
locked.
Discipline
One of the
most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While it doesn’t appear as a subject, it
underlines the whole educational structure.
It is the training that develops self-control, character, orderliness,
and efficiency. It is the key to good
conduct and proper consideration for other people. Therefore, good self discipline is expected
of all students and steps will be taken to correct and modify students with
poor discipline.
Dress Regulation
In order to
maintain a productive learning environment, students will be expected to dress
in clean clothing which is appropriate to the activity which they are
engaged. Hair must be kept neat and
clean and must not pose a danger for the activity they are involved in.
Guidelines
for dress in grades 7-12 are:
1. Clothing that may cause injury to
others or damage to property is not permitted.
2. Undergarments worn as outer clothing
are not permitted.
3. Shirts must reach the pants or shorts
(no skin should be showing around the midline).
4. Shirts that have printing or
illustrations that are offensive or that advertise alcohol, tobacco, or drugs
are not permitted. Appropriateness of
other illustrations will be determined by the principal.
5. Caps or bandannas will not be worn
inside the building during the school day.
6. No shoulder straps smaller than a half
inch will be permitted.
Students
violating these regulations will be asked to change their clothing. This may require a student to go home and
receive an unexcused absence. Repeated
violators will receive detention.
Dismissal From Class
When an
instructor dismisses a student from class for unbecoming conduct the student is
to report to the OFFICE IMMEDIATELY! The
student cannot be re-admitted to the class until a satisfactory adjustment has
been made. The student must remain out
of class a minimum of one period.
Students who are dismissed from the same class three times will
be dropped from the class for the remainder of the semester and a failure for
the class will be recorded on the permanent record.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
It is the goal of the
This policy is not merely a “rule” to try to find “ways around,” but it is a guideline which can be used by students and parents in planning activities outside of school. All absences and tardiness become a part of the student’s permanent record.
The one basic rule regarding attendance is that the school needs to know where a student is whenever he/she is not present in school. It is the students and parents responsibility to inform the office on or before the day of absence. Parents and students are asked to assist in keeping the office informed so disciplinary action by the school can be avoided.
A student’s contribution to and achievement in class are directly related to attendance. Both students and parents must understand that students miss a vital portion of their education when they are absent from school.
While it is true that written work can be completed for make-up, class instruction or presentations, discussions, some audio-visual presentations, or student-teacher interaction can never be made up.
ABSENCES
Any student who is absent for any reason other than school sponsored activities must get a make-up slip before being admitted to class. In order to obtain a make-up slip, the student must have a note, phone call, or email from the parent or guardian. If you do not have a note or the office does not receive a phone call, it will be considered an unexcused absence and you will receive morning detention and will be excluded from extra-curricular activities for that day.
DEFINITION OF ABSENCE
A student will be classified as absent when he/she has missed 15 minutes or more of a class.The student will be responsible to pick up a make-up slip if he/she is absent. If a student misses less than 15 minutes of class, then he/she will be counted tardy. Students missing class because of school sponsored events are exempt from being absent provided that they have their work completed.
ABSENCE PROCEDURES
If one is absent from school, a parent should call the
school office at 623-4241 before
Students who leave school during the day must have prior approval or call home before they can leave.
Students who leave the school without office approval are unexcused.
Students will not be allowed to return to class without a make-up slip which can be picked up in the office. The students must follow these steps when returning to class:
1. Pick up a make-up slip from the office.
2. Give the make-up slip to teachers of the classes one has missed. The teacher will initial
the slip when the student receives his/her make-up work.
Students will have two days for each day of absence to turn in make-up work. School work will be graded without penalty if completed within the time allowed.
Attendance is taken at the beginning of the school day. Attendance is monitored by the teacher throughout the school day.
After a student has been absent from any class during a semester:
4 times… a form letter stating this fact will be sent to the parents. The letter will stress the importance of attendance to good school work.
8 times… a form letter stating this fact will be sent to the parents. The classroom teacher will no longer give make-up work and will assign a “0” grade.
10 times... a conference will be held to include the superintendent/principal, the student, and at least
one parent. The purpose of the conference shall be to inform the parent and the student that because he/she indicated an unwillingness to put forth the effort to complete academic requirements, the student will be dropped from the class.
Under normal circumstances, absences as listed will be counted against the minimum absences as
indicated below:
1. Participation in school sponsored activities. (No count)
2. Cases of prolonged absence because of illness. In some instances, a doctor’s statement may be required. (One absence for each day missed.)
3. Any absence for illness which can be verified by a doctor’s statement. (One absence for each day missed.)
4. Death in immediate family or critical illness in immediate family. (No count)
5. Hunting trips, fishing trips, skiing trips, etc. (One absence for each day missed)
6. Participating
in the
7. Funeral (at the discretion of the superintendent.)
ACTION TAKEN FOR TRUANCY:
§ Automatic one day of in-school suspension from all classes and activities for the FIRST TRUANCY.
§ Automatic two days of in-school suspension from all classes and activities for the SECOND TRUANCY.
§ Automatic three days of in-school suspension from all classes and activities for the THIRD TRUANCY with referral to the Board of Education for further disciplinary action.
First
Second
Tardiness
Punctuality
is a good habit to build. Prospective
employers and colleges often request student’s attendance records so a good
record is vital.
1. A student is tardy if he/she is not in
his/her assigned room and/or seat when the bell rings.
2. Most students are punctual, but the
late-comers create annoying problems. Therefore
students should work very hard not to be tardy.
Tardies
1st
– 3rd is free; 4th – one hour of morning detention; 5th
and thereafter – two hours of morning detention along with no practice,
participation, or competition on that day.
If a student fails to show up for detention they will be subject to one
day of out of school suspension with no credit in any classes and will be
removed from extra-circular activities for a period of one week.
Fighting
Fighting
will not be tolerated anywhere on school grounds before, during, or after the
school day. Also, fighting at school
sponsored activities is not allowed.
Violators will receive a three-day suspension for the first
offense. Repeated violators will be
dealt with in a more serious matter.
Smoking
Students are
not permitted to smoke or possess tobacco products on school property. This includes any school sponsored
activity. Students violating this rule
will receive three days suspension.
Possession of tobacco by a minor violates a state law.
Cheating
Students who
attend Grant-Deuel High School are expected to do their own work at all times
unless specifically instructed by the classroom teacher. The student who elects to cheat from another
student’s work as well as the willing student providing the information will be
harshly punished. Cheating on a major
exam will cause the students to fail the nine weeks work. Cheating in other areas will bring about
failure for the work in question and notification of the parents.
Alcohol / Illegal Drugs
The use and
/ or possession of alcohol and illegal drugs by Grant-Deuel students is
prohibited. This includes students
coming to school or attending school activities while under the influence. Violators will be dealt with depending upon the
situation and police will be notified.
Removal From Class
Students are
expected to conduct themselves in a manner which creates an optimal learning
environment. Teachers may dismiss students
from the classroom if conduct is such that it interferes with the learning of
others. The first time a student is sent
to the principal’s office he/she will be required to talk with the teacher and
the principal about his/her behavior before reinstatement. The second time a student is sent to the
office he / she will be suspended from the class for two days. A parent letter will be sent and the student
must meet with the principal and teacher before reinstatement. Students who are dismissed from the same
class three times will be dropped from the class for the remainder of the
semester and receive a failure.
Language
The use of
profane, racist, or vulgar language in school and at school activities is
strictly prohibited. Students must learn
to communicate in a manner which is not disruptive to the learning
environment. Violators will receive
three mornings of detention for the first offense. Second time offenders will be suspended for
three days. Further violators will
warrant a recommendation to the school board for expulsion.
Bus Routes
Bus routes
will be sent with the September newsletter.
You should receive this at the end of August. Announcements concerning school closing or
transportation problems will be aired on radio stations, KDLO, KCGN, KWAT, KJ91,
When you receive your bus route with
the August newsletter, please examine the bus lists and report any errors or
omissions to the school office. The
cooperation of the students and parents is sought to help keep the buses
running on schedule. With four bus
routes in operation, it will be necessary to keep all buses running on time and
adhere to a rigid schedule. The bus
rules will be strictly enforced. Please
review them with your children. A copy
of the bus rules is included in the student handbook that all students will
receive on the first day of school.
STUDENT DRIVING INFORMATION
Students of the
BUS SAFETY
Please
encourage your children to keep their noses clean and rules in mind in order
that Pat’s buses may be safe means of transportation.
Respect
Policy
The following
items are determined to be disrespectful, and thus, unacceptable behavior. Students will refrain from engaging in these
behaviors or will be hold to the consequences as listed.
Ø
Rolling
eyes
Ø
Trying
to be funny and make class laugh at teacher’s expense
Ø
Back-talk
Ø
Talking
when teacher is talking
Ø
Displaying
a bad attitude
Ø
Refusing
to do what they are told
Ø
Name
calling
Ø
Teasing
Ø
Verbal
sexual come-ons or telling dirty jokes and making remarks that make others feel
uncomfortable
Ø
Swearing
at other students, at teacher
Ø
Gestures
Ø
Degrading
/ mocking
Ø
Intimidating
Ø
Damaging
and or defacing property
Ø
Spoiling
others homework
Ø
Hitting/
shoving/ kicking
Consequences:
Discipline
Point System:
1. Demerits will be given for each
infraction listed below.
2. After your third and sixth demerit you
will be required to spend one (1) hour of detention.
3. When the running total reaches ten
(10) demerits, the student will be required to attend
4. For each additional five (5) demerits,
the student will be required to spend another day of
5. If a student were to accumulate
twenty-five (25) demerits within the semester, the student will be referred to
the School Board for its consideration of a long-term suspension or expulsion.
Truancy and tardies will not be counted toward the twenty-five (25).
6. Voluntary community service work may be
used to erase demerits provided they are earned before a student has reached
the point where the student needs to spend time in
7. At the end of each semester, a student
with two or less demerits will be allowed to take part in a movie day.
Infractions;
Absences/Tardies
1. Tardies- any part of the class- one(1)
demerit per tardy
2. Truancy/Unexcused Absence- (any part of the day)
a. Two (2) demerits for the first period
missed, one(1) for each one after that.
b. For each violation after the first
one, the student will be required to serve one (1) day in-school suspension.
1. Sent to Office- (usually more than
one(1) infraction has occurred)
a. First violation- two (2) demerits
b. Second violation- two (2) demerits
c. Third violation- three (3) demerits
and removal from school for the day
d. Fourth violation- four (4) demerits
each occurrence thereafter and removal from school for the day
2. Written referral- (minor offenses)-
one (1) demerit each
3. Major displays of misconduct- as
determined by administration
a. All violations- five (5) demerits to
ten (10) demerits plus possible out of school suspension
4. Fighting- Any verbal or physical
confrontation
a. Five (5) to ten (10) demerits and
possible out of school suspension
Driving without permission during
school hours-
1. First violation- five (5) demerits
2. Second violation- five (5) demerits
and in school suspension
3. Third violation- ten (10) demerits and
in school suspension
First violation- three
(3) demerits
Second violation- five
(5) demerits and in school suspension
Vandalism
Demerits for each occurrence or repeated violation will be determined by administration.
Severity determined by
administration by administration- minimum demerits are:
1. First violation- three (3) demerits
2. Second violation- five (5) demerits
3. Third violation- ten (10) demerits and
one day in school suspension
Tobacco
All forms- Ten (10) demerits and
three (3) day suspension
Alcohol and other drugs
All forms- Ten (10) demerits and
three (3) day suspension
Stealing
Severity determined by
administration.
1. First violation- one to ten demerits
2. Second violation- five to ten demerits
and in school suspension
Procedures during implementation
1. A student will be called to the office
upon receiving his/her fourth and ninth demerit, and each five demerits
thereafter and a letter will be sent home to parents/ guardians in regard to
the student’s status.
2. Written verifications on assigned
Saturdays will be sent to parent/guardian. If you want an explanation of how
the points were accumulated, please call the high school principal.
3. A mandatory conference will be
required of all parents/guardians with administrators in the high school
office, when any student receives twenty demerits total.
4. Any referral, teacher request, or
administrative situation, when deemed necessary could also require a conference
with the student, parent/guardian, or both.
5. Dates for
Attendance at
1. Excused absences- (illness, family
emergency, parental request, and medical type appointments approved by the high
school principal). If they are excused, they will be required to attend the next
a. If no contact is established by
parent/guardian on the day of the absence or before, this absence will be
recorded as an unexcused absence or truancy.
b. Any student who is truant from
2. Missing
a. First time- Two days in school
suspension and attendance at next Saturday session
b. Second time- Four days in school
suspension and attendance at next Saturday session
1. Students are to enter through the west
doors by the principal’s office.
2. The doors will be locked at
3. Saturday school will be in the school
lunchroom or other directions will be given.
Each
student will be required to have teachers give an assignment to them. This work
must be completed to the satisfaction of the Saturday School Supervisor and
checked off with a passing grade by the assigned teacher on Tuesday following
that
Failure
to complete this work with a passing grade will result in another
1. You must fill out the “Saturday School
Assignment Form” from the office and return it to the office by the end of your
last class on Friday prior to the
2. All students must have their materials
and books with them on Saturday. Students will not be allowed to go to their
locker.
Parents will be notified if their
child receives detention. Detention will be served at
1. If the detention is skipped and not
served, student will be visited with and assigned detention will be doubled.
2. If the student skips detention a
second time a phone call will be made to the parent and one day of in-school
suspension (ISS) will be served. The student will receive 70% credit while
serving ISS and all work that the student missed must be made up. The detention
will still be completed as well.
3. If this happens twice during the
school year, the student will receive 3 days out-of-school suspension (
Grant-Deuel Student Laptop
Usage Agreement
The
Each student that requires a school issued laptop to be taken off campus will need to pay a $50 non-refundable laptop usage fee prior to issue. Students/Parents may be required to pay for damage done to laptop computers with written documentation between school officials and parent(s) which will be communicated prior to any service work that is to be completed.
Misuse of the machine both physical and/or to the internal software or hardware of the laptop may result in the student’s laptop usage to be revoked. One documented warning will be issued to each student on the first offense. If a second occurrence takes place students will be required to pay an additional $50 non-refundable usage fee in order to reinstate laptop computer privileges.
Misuse is described but not limited to the following: failure to transport computer out of computer bag, inappropriate downloads that are non educational such as pornography, games, etc., hacking into a file that isn’t owned by that respective person, and cyber bullying.
___________________________________ _______________________________
student date
___________________________________ _______________________________
parent date
___________________________________ ______________________________
school official date
Adopted:
Weapons policy:
Grant-Deuel will not tolerate the use or possession of weapons on school property. Weapons may include but are not limited to: knives, guns, clubs, brass knuckles, explosive devices, slingshot, or any object that may cause harm could be considered a weapon. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action. All weapons will be confiscated and may be turned over to the student’s parents and/or law enforcement at the discretion of the administration.
Safety is the primary concern at Grant-Deuel, therefore law enforcement will be contacted anytime a weapon is produced at school. Disciplinary action will follow at the school setting regardless of what law enforcement procedures are. Discipline will be at the discretion of the administration of Grant-Deuel Schools. If expulsion is sought the school board will need to intervene as per policy.
Adopted:
Adopted 7/2007
STUDENT
GRIEVANCE
A
grievance is defined as a complaint in writing by a student to the school
staff/authorities alleging one or more of the following:
A.
A
school rule
B.
The
application of a school rule
C.
The
procedure used to arrive at a punishment
Discriminates
against a student on the basis of their race, color, creed, religion, age, sex,
handicap, national origin, sexual orientation, or ancestry.
COMPLAINT Date________________
Check
One Blank
Federal
Programs Director
Level 1__________
Principal Level 2__________
Superintendent Level 3__________
I__________________________ hereby file a
grievance complaint to
________________________ my grievance is
based on A.___B.___C.___ above. (More than one blank may be checked.)
Specifically, my grievance is
that_______________________________________
__________________________________________________________________.
I hereby petition for a hearing on my
grievance at the convenience of the schools’ personnel, but in no event later
than five school days from the date of this petition.
__________________________________________Student’s
Signature(s)
The
student may be represented at the conference by an adult, but the student must
be present to elaborate on their grievance at the given time and place to the
conference. Failure to appear at the
appointed time and place effectively waives the student’s right to the
conference provided by the school, unless extenuating circumstances make it
impossible for the student to appear.
SCHOOL’S
RECORD
Date
Received__________________ Date
of conference____________________
Place
of conference__________________ Time of Conference___________________
Comments:____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Resolution:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature
of school representative____________________________________________
We
assume that each student will become aware of what is expected as a result of
reading this book. Parents, please read and explain this handbook to your
student.