BURNS HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICIES, GENERAL INFORMATION,
AND DISCIPLINE CODE
PREFACE
The material covered within this handbook is intended as a method of communicating to students and parents general school information, rules and procedures and is not intended to either enlarge or diminish any Board policy, administrative regulation or negotiated agreement. Material contained herein may therefore be superseded by such Board policy, administrative regulation or negotiated agreement.
Any information contained in this student handbook is subject to unilateral revision or elimination from time to time without notice.
Students are responsible for conducting themselves properly, in accordance with the policies of the school and district and the lawful direction of staff. The school and district have the responsibility to afford students certain rights as guaranteed under federal and state constitutions and statutes.
The administration at Burns High School reserves the right to modify, delete or add to the rules and procedures described. Also, the administration has the right to interpret the meaning and/or intent of any part of this document.
ATTENDANCE
Punctual and regular attendance is essential to the academic success of students. School staff will consider a student’s attendance in determining a grade reduction or credit denial, though attendance will not be the sole criterion used. Such decisions will not be based on non-attendance due to religious reasons, a student’s disability or an excused absence, as determined by district policy. At the beginning of each school year or course, teachers will inform students how attendance and class participation are related to the instructional goals of the subject or course.
A student who has been absent for any reason is encouraged to make up specific assignments missed and/or to complete additional in-depth study assigned by the teacher to meet subject or course requirements. Parents should contact the office to arrange for the collection of homework assignments for a student who will be absent several days. Failure to make up assigned work within a reasonable amount of time as allowed by the teacher will result in a grade of zero for the assignment.
• Absences and Excuses
When returning to school after an absence, a student must bring a note signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. Parents and guardians should be aware that according to Oregon law, they are not given unilateral authority to excuse their student from school. Absence from school or class will be excused under the following circumstances:
1. Illness of the student
2. Illness of an immediate family member when the student’s presence at home is necessary
3. Emergency situations that require the student’s absence
4. School sponsored or school approved activities
5. Medical or dental appointments. Confirmation of appointments may be required
6. Other reasons deemed appropriate by the school administrator or
his/her designee
7. Pre-approved release from a classroom activity or lesson on the
basis of a disability or for personal, religious or ethnic
considerations.
Parents and students are encouraged whenever possible to make arrangements in advance of an absence. The administration will honor parental requests for a student to be excused for reasons considered legitimate by the parent if the absence is prearranged and prior approval is granted.
All absences are considered to be unexcused until the parent or guardian calls or sends a note to the school with an acceptable explanation of the absence. This must be done within two days of the student’s return to school. An administrator may consider a parental request to excuse an absence beyond that time. An unexcused absence results in the student receiving no credit for anything due or assigned that day. Unexcused absences may include such things as skipping, car trouble, sleeping in, missing the school bus, shopping, working, hair appointments or getting or returning personal items.
After arriving at school a student may not leave without permission and must sign out in the office. Parents must call or send a note arranging the release prior to the student leaving, and the student must come to the office and get an off-campus pass. Any student signing out of school is required to leave campus property until they check back in.
All students between the ages of 7 and 18, who have not completed the 12th grade, are required to attend school unless otherwise exempted by law. School staff will monitor and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. If a BHS student’s attendance record reflects that he/she is not attending school on a regular and timely basis, a parent contact will be attempted as soon as reasonably possible. If the student’s attendance does not improve after contacting his/her parents the ESD will be notified. The ESD superintendent will inform the parent of Oregon’s compulsory attendance law, and that lack of compliance can result in a citation and fine of $150. The parent/guardian is encouraged to contact the school to discuss what can be done to improve attendance.
If the student’s attendance still does not substantially improve a conference will be scheduled with the student, parent, counselor and administrator to place the student on a behavioral contract requiring regular attendance or be placed in Alternative School. The school may also contact the ESD to initiate proceedings to cite the parent for violation of the compulsory attendance statute.
• Tardiness
Only the staff can excuse tardiness to any class during the school day, and the student should have a pass stating that reason. Tardiness is defined as not being in an assigned room when the bell rings. Teachers will keep tardy records for each student and implement procedures for dealing with excessive tardiness as part of their classroom management rules, including a 1% reduction in the course grade for each unexcused tardy. Students arriving more than twenty minutes late will be considered to be absent from that class rather than tardy. Parents may not excuse a student’s 1st period tardiness. The administrator has the authority to make that determination.
• Suspension of Driving Privileges
Students who fail to maintain regular enrollment in school may have either their driving privileges suspended or the right to apply for driving privileges suspended. The superintendent or designee may, under ORS 339.257, notify the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) of the withdrawal of a student who is at least 15 years of age and under 18 years of age. Upon notice by the district that a student has withdrawn from school, ODOT shall notify the student that driving privileges will be suspended on the 30th day following the date of notice unless the student presents documentation that complies with ORS 807.066. A student shall be considered to have withdrawn from school if the student has more than 10 consecutive school days of unexcused absences, or fifteen school days total of unexcused absences during a single semester unless the administration determines there is a mitigating circumstance.
The attendance officer will notify the parent and ESD when a student is dropped. Should the student return to school he/she will have to re-enroll.
• Exemption from compulsory attendance
The school may grant an exemption from compulsory attendance to the parent of a student who is 16 or 17 years of age or an emancipated minor provided the student is:
1. Employed full-time
2. Employed part-time and enrolled in school part-time
3. Enrolled in a community college or other state-registered alternative education program
All such requests must be submitted in writing to the principal and include documentation of the student’s employment by the employer, or enrollment status by the school. The school requires notification should the student’s employment or enrollment status be terminated.
Requests will be considered only following a conference with the student and parent or emancipated student and a review of credits earned for graduation, grades, disability, if applicable, counselor appraisal, immediate plans, short-range and career goals and any other pertinent information.
Approved exemptions will be in writing and include information on alternative education programs of instruction or instruction combined with counseling that may be available.
GENERAL INFORMATION /CODE OF CONDUCT
After-school Detention
After-school detention is frequently used as a disciplinary consequence. Detention will be set up in a supervised classroom. The following rules will apply for detention:
1. Students must have homework or a book to read when they report to detention. Students who report without anything to work on will be removed and assigned and in-school suspension.
2. Failure to appear for detention will likely result in an in-school suspension.
3. Students creating any disturbance or problems will be sent home and assigned an in-school suspension.
4. Detention must be served on the assigned date and time. Exceptions must be cleared in advance.
5. There will be NO TALKING.
6. NO FOOD OR DRINK will be allowed. Also, no sleeping will be allowed.
7. Students are not to leave their desks without first raising their hand and being given permission.
8. Transportation home after detention is the student’s responsibility.
Alternative Education Placement
TRANSFER TO ALTERNATIVE EDUCTION PROGRAM FROM BURNS HIGH SCHOOL
Students may be transferred to Alternative School for the following reasons:
1. Excessive absences in any semester;
2. Violation of a behavior contract;
3. Expulsion, pending expulsion or excessive suspensions;
4. Prior school of attendance was an alternative program or school;
5. Attempting to enroll at Burns High School after the fourth week of a semester if the student had not been enrolled in a school immediately prior to that time;
6. As deemed necessary by the school administration and/or Alternative Ed Committee.
TRANSFER FROM ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM TO BURNS HIGH SCHOOL
Students are eligible for consideration to return to Burns High School once all of the following conditions are met:
1. Must attend a minimum of one full semester in alternative education;
2. Must earn a minimum of 2 credits during a trimester;
3. Must demonstrate a willingness to follow school and district rules and exhibit good behavior;
4. Must have acceptable attendance;
5. Overall credits must be sufficient to establish a probability that he/she may graduate with his/her class;
6. Transfers will not be made except for at the start of a trimester;
7. Any transfer must be approved by the Alternative Ed Committee.
ENROLLMENT IN ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION
1. No student may be concurrently enrolled in an alternative education course and the same Burns High School course.
2. Concurrent enrollment in the alternative education program for the purpose of early graduation is prohibited. Concurrent enrollment is allowed only for seniors who are more than 8 credits away from those whose placement was not caused by disciplinary problems.
3. The deadline for completing concurrently enrolled classes to be counted toward graduation is the last day for seniors at Burns High School.
4. Special education students will be dealt with according to their IEP.
Assembly of Students
Students shall be able to hold meetings on school property under the following conditions of responsibility: the meeting shall be scheduled two weeks in advance and must be approved by the building principal or his representative. The meeting or party shall incite no hazard to persons or property. Any group of students that wish a meeting shall request meetings through the office and group advisors. Meeting places will be announced over the P. A. system (where available). Students are requested to hold all meetings during the time allotted. Meetings or party plans that do not meet these conditions may be cancelled.
Athletic Fees
Athletes pay to participate. Fees for the current year will be announced in the fall.
Backpacks
Backpacks are to be kept in the student’s locker upon arriving at school until the end of the school day. Backpacks are not allowed in classrooms.
Breathalyzer Tests
Burns High School reserves the right to breath test anyone who attends a function on school premises or at any function provided by Burns High School, be it on school property or not.
Cafeteria/Lunch Charging
The cafeteria offers balanced lunches to students at a reasonable price during the scheduled lunch period. Students bringing sack lunches may purchase milk. Students are expected to leave the cafeteria clean by removing all lunch sacks, milk cartons and other refuse.
A charge of meals is not allowed at Burns High School. If the parent is in financial difficulty for even short periods of time, the free/reduced lunch program is available and should be used. Application forms are available in the school office.
Cell Phones/Pagers
Students at Burns High School are not allowed to use cell phones, pagers, nor any other electronic communication device during school hours. All electronic communication devices must be kept in lockers at all times. The consequences will include, but are not limited to: the first consequence will result in the device being confiscated by school personnel and returned at the end of the day. The second consequence will result in a referral and detention, and the device may be returned at the end of the day. The third consequence will result in a referral, Friday school, and the device being returned only to the parents of the offending student.
Cheating/Plagiarism
Burns High School respects the need for students to discover ways of learning both individualized and with cooperative methods. BHS faculty and administration believe that the education and diplomas students receive will reflect the high academic standards at Burns High School. To ensure this, BHS has established the following academic regulations in order to maintain its integrity and allow students individual pursuit for a quality education.
Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to:
• Cheating on an exam;
• Receiving help from others in work to be submitted, if contrary to rules of the course.
• Plagiarizing (using another’s ideas and/or writings as own without citing source);
• Submitting work from another course unless permitted by instructor
• Using technology (computer, copy machine, etc) to duplicate another’s work;
• Assisting anyone to do any of the above.
In the event that students are suspected of classroom cheating, plagiarism, or otherwise misrepresenting their work, they will be subject to the following consequences and parents notified:
1. Exams, quizzes, daily work will receive a “zero” grade.
2. Major paper work may be re-submitted with a “C” being the highest possible grade. Students will be allowed a maximum of one week to re-submit. Failure to meet this time frame will result in a “zero” grade for that assignment.
3. A second offense will result in immediate removal of course with an “F”.
Classroom Behavior
Teachers will inform students of their expectations for appropriate classroom behavior. This is the procedure teachers will follow when students are disruptive:
1. The teacher will discuss the inappropriate behavior with the student.
2. The parent will be contacted by the teacher about the inappropriate behavior if it continues.
3. If the inappropriate behavior continues, the student will be referred to an administrator for discipline.
4. A conference with the student, parent(s) and administrator will be held if the behavior persists. In this conference options such as a behavioral contract, removal from the class or alternative placement may be discussed.
If the disruption is serious, e.g., fighting or profanity, these steps may not be followed and the students(s) will asked to immediately leave the classroom and report to an administrator for discipline.
Closed Campus
Burns High School operates a closed campus at lunchtime for freshmen and sophomores. Juniors in good standing may leave campus for lunch. Check out procedures for freshmen and sophomores is outlined on page 28 of this handbook.
Concurrent College Credit
Students may earn college credit prior to college admittance through concurrent enrollment in a college or through rigorous testing programs such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Advanced Placement examinations (AP exams). Both testing and options charge fees for testing. If a student wishes to obtain high school credit for a college course, the student must obtain administrative approval prior to enrollment.
Complaint Procedure
A complaint is a negative remark or criticism made against an employee. Any formal written complaint regarding an employee shall be made known to the employee. Any oral complaint deemed substantive by the administrator shall be made known to the employee. At the employee’s request, a meeting between the building principal, the employee and the complainant shall be arranged. If the complainant declines such a meeting, the matter will be dropped completely. If this complaint cannot be resolved at the building level, the complaint shall be referred to the Superintendent. The employee has the right to representation at all levels of this procedure.
Counseling
The Counselor is available to assist students throughout their four years at Burns High school with scheduling problems, personal and social growth issues, academic concerns, college and career plans, monitoring graduation and credit requirements, and financial aid for post-secondary schooling. Students are encouraged to see their counselor on a regular basis. The counselor is responsible for student records, credit checks and scheduling.
Dances
One hour after a dance begins the doors will be locked and students will not be allowed to enter. Once a student leaves a dance, he or she will not be allowed to re-enter. Guests may be allowed to some dances, however, must be of high school age up to 20 years of age. Guests must be pre-registered with the office.
Discipline of Disabled Students
When a student being served by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) engages in conduct which would warrant suspension of more than 10 days or expulsion for a non-disabled student, the student’s parents will be notified immediately (within 24 hours) of the circumstances of the misbehavior and the time and location of the student’s IEP team meeting addressing the infraction and its relationship to the disability.
The IEP team will determine whether the misconduct is a manifestation of the student’s disability. Should the IEP team conclude the misconduct has no relationship to the student’s disability, the student may be disciplined in the same manner, as would other students.
If the IEP team concludes the misconduct is a consequence of the student’s disability, the team may review and revise the student’s IEP and determine whether a change in placement is needed. The district may not suspend for more than 10 days or expel a disabled student or terminate educational services for any behavior, which is a manifestation of the disability.
A student may be removed from the current educational placement to an interim alternative setting for up to 45 calendar days in a school year for a drug or weapon violation as provided in district procedures. Additionally, the district may request an expedited due process hearing to obtain a hearings officer’s order to remove a student to an interim alternative educational setting for not more than 45 days if the student is exhibiting injurious behavior. For the purpose of this request, “injurious behavior” is defined as behavior that is substantially likely to result in injury to the student or to others.
Dress and Grooming
The dress code established in this district is intended to promote appropriate grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption, and avoid safety hazards. Additionally, dress and grooming issues often constitute conflicts with the district policy on sexual harassment and gangs. The following dress code seeks to create a logical and useful set of guidelines for students and parents.
Clothing Policy
In general, students should dress in neat, clean, appropriate clothing which does not disrupt the educational process and protects the rights of others. This specifically includes the following:
1. No tops which continually show bare midriffs, spaghetti straps, open back, low-cut tops, or anything which shows underwear.
2. Clothing worn under “see through” tops must follow above criteria.
3. Shoes must be worn at all times. Sandals are permitted.
4. No clothing advertising/insinuating alcohol, tobacco, drugs or sexual or discriminating messages.
5. Shirts/tops must be worn at all times outside of gym classes.
6. Dresses, skirts and shorts must be mid thigh. No boxer shorts worn as outer shorts. Extremely oversized clothing is not to be worn.
7. Coveralls/overalls must be completely fastened. Chains and other noisy or dangerous items attached to clothing are not allowed and must be removed for safety purposes.
8. All forms of head coverings are not allowed in the building before school or during the school day, including caps, bandannas, headbands, visors and hairnets (unless working with food).
9. No personalized messages or inappropriate nicknames on
clothing.
10. All tattoos deemed gang related must be covered.
Early College Enrollment
Students may petition the School Board for approval to attend college full-time during their senior year. However, several stipulations must be met:
1. The petition must have the approval of administration and counseling staff.
2. A petition must have approval of the School Board. Student and parent/guardian must appear before the School Board and orally present the petition for approval.
3. All core subjects must be completed before early release is granted.
4. Any student under 18 years of age must verify college enrollment with the ESD at the beginning of the institution’s first quarter/semester. Failure to do so will be a violation of the compulsory attendance law. Full-time attendance at the named institution is required.
5. 5. The student must request that an official transcript be sent directly to Burns High School for evaluation and the granting of credit. Transcripts must be received no later than one (1) week prior to the graduation date.
Early Graduation
A student who wishes to graduate from the high school in less time than the normal four (4) year sequence may request permission to complete graduation requirements on an altered schedule. The student and the student’s parents/guardians will consult with the high school guidance personnel to develop a compressed graduation plan. The intention to accomplish this plan will be stated in writing to the Superintendent for approval. Special accommodations such as credit through the Learning Enhancement Center (LEC), alternative school, or independent studies through the high school staff are not permitted as components of the graduation plan.
Expulsion
A student may be expelled for severe or repeated violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
No student may be expelled without a hearing unless the student’s parent or the student, if 18 years of age, waives the right to a hearing, either in writing or by failure to appear at a scheduled hearing.
An expulsion shall not extend beyond one calendar year.
The district will provide appropriate expulsion notification including expulsion hearing procedures, student and parent rights and alternative education provisions as required by law.
General Discipline Procedures/Options
A student who violates the Student Code of Conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action.
A student’s due process rights will be observed in all such instances, including the right to appeal the discipline decisions of staff and administrators.
The district’s disciplinary options include using one or more discipline management techniques including counseling by teachers, counselors and administrators, detention, behavioral contracts, suspension, expulsion and loss of privileges, honors and awards and removal to an alternative education program.
Violations of the district’s weapons policy, as required by law, shall be reported to law enforcement.
In addition, when a student is involved in a fight, commits assault, is in possession or use of a drug or drug paraphernalia, alcohol and/or tobacco-related product or is engaged in any other criminal act, he/she will be referred to law enforcement officials.
Grade Point Average and Class Rank
All final grades in al courses are given equal value in computing GPA and class rank.
Grading System
The grading system is A, B, C, F (the “D) grade has been eliminated). Grade Point Average (GPA) continues to be calculated on the 4.0 non-weighted scale.
Graduation
Graduation Policy
All students in good standing who have successfully completed the requirements for an Academic, Standard, Modified Diploma, Alternative Diploma (through Special Education Department) or Certificate of Achievement may participate in graduation exercises.
Diploma Types
Academic Diploma
An Academic Diploma will be awarded if the student:
• Scores 239 or better on the CIM level State Assessment tests in Reading, Math and Science;
• Meet or exceed state standards on all required work samples;
• Passes all local graduation requirements. Valedictorian/Salutatorian candidates must meet or exceed all CIM requirements by the end of the first semester of their senior year.
Standard Diploma
A Standard Diploma will be awarded if the student”
• Scores a 231 or better on the CIM level State Assessment tests in Reading, Math and Science (a test score of 231 is the eighth grade proficiency level benchmark);
• Passes all local graduation requirements.
Modified Diploma
A Modified Diploma will be awarded if the student:
• Scores 230 or below on the CIM level State Assessment Tests
and/or
• Uses non-standard means to pass graduation requirements. (Non-standard means will be established through teacher officials, student and parent staffing to produce individual criteria for graduation requirements.) These non-standard programs may include: LEC Course Work, Resource Course Work, Pass/NG option individual contract, tutorial study, Oregon Play Youth Challenge Program (COTEF)
• Passes all local graduation requirements
Certificate of Achievement
“A student who does not earn a CIM may receive a Certificate of Achievement by showing progress or passing the state and local standards in one or more of these areas: math, English, or science. A Certificate of Achievement is also available for any student who exits high school without graduating.” (Oregon Standards, 2001)
Juried Assessment
A student may submit a collection of evidence for the state reading/literature, mathematics, mathematics problem solving, or science test. Each test must have its own collection of evidence to be juried. (From the Juried Assessment Manual, 2001)
See the counselor for more information and appropriate forms if you are interested in Juried Assessment.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate at Burns High School a student is required to obtain twenty-six credits of study. Fifteen credits are required and eleven are the student’s elective classes.
Freshman Year:
English 9
Math
PE 9
Physical Science/Earth Science (one trimester of each)
Art 9 (unless taking Band, Choir or Art)
Civics
Sophomore Year:
English 10
Math
Science (Biology, Chemistry, Ag Science)
Civics (class of 2008)
Junior Year:
English 11 –or- Honors English 11
Contemporary US History –or- AP US History
Health –or- Anatomy/Physiology –or- Parent-Child Development
Math (Class of 2010 and beyond)
Senior Year:
English 12 -or- Honors English 12
American Government/Economics (one trimester of each)
Senior Project
All other classes that will be taken to earn a Burns High School diploma are electives.
Gym Areas
The gym is closed during the lunch period, before and after school. Students are not to be in or around these areas unless supervised by a staff member.
Headphones/Walkmans/MP3 Players
Students will be allowed to use portable music players during lunchtime and at the discretion of the individual teachers. It is up to the individual teachers to determine whether or not these devices are allowed in their individual classes. Portable music players and electronic devices include, but are not limited to, CD/tape players, MP3 players, iPods, iPod Videos, Gameboys and other video games. The consequences will include, but are not limited to: the first consequence will result in the device being confiscated by school personnel and returned at the end of the day. The second consequence will be a referral, detention and the device may be returned at the end of the day. The third consequence will be a referral, Friday School , and the device will only be returned to the parents of the offending student.
Homework
If a student has been absent with an excused absence, the student is allowed one day for each day absent to make up the work. Each course of study typically requires an average of four hours of preparation weekly from the student of average ability. Usually students will be able to make one-half the necessary preparation in the classroom.
Learning Enhancement Center (LEC)
The LEC is a specifically designed program to meet the needs of students seeking credit retrieval. A variety of courses are offered. Administrative approval is required for LEC enrollment.
Medications
If possible, medications should be taken at home. However, there are circumstances when a student must take prescribed medications at school. Medications must be kept in the main office and dispensed by office personnel.
Messages
Messages for students will be taken through the office from parents and guardians only. These messages will be taken on an emergency basis only.
Parking
Students not following general parking regulations (parking in marked spaces, speeding or reckless driving) will have their parking privileges revoked.
Questioning
Should law enforcement officials find it necessary to question students during the school day or during periods of extra-curricular activities, the principal or designee will be present when possible. An effort will be made to notify the parent of the situation, unless directed otherwise by law enforcement personnel.
Parents are advised that in suspected child abuse cases, the Oregon Department of Human Services, Community Human Services and/or law enforcement officials will be notified. School personnel may be excluded from the investigation procedures, and may be prohibited from contacting parents.
Rights of Students
Court decisions have indicated that young people in the United States have the right to receive a free public education. The courts have also stated that students have the rights of citizenship as delineated in the United States Constitution and its amendments. The deprivation or abridgment of these rights may occur only for just cause and in accordance with due process of law.
Constitutional rights are not absolute and in the school setting reasonable limitations must be placed upon the exercise of these rights in order that the schools may effectively fulfill their function of educating young people. The school system may not, however, unduly infringe upon constitutional rights.
In taking disciplinary action, school officials will consider the students’ individual and collective rights and safety and will afford students their rights to fair consideration free from action which is patently arbitrary, capricious, and inappropriate for the offense committed. School officials have the right to consider mitigating and aggravating factors in deciding if the disciplinary action should be more or less than established guidelines. If, for example, a student has demonstrated excellent behavior and then becomes involved in an infraction, this may be considered in determining the actions taken; and if a student has a history of problem behavior, disciplinary action taken will likely be the maximum prescribed in this booklet. Chronic and/or severe violation of rules may result in action that extends beyond the guidelines.
Simply put, disciplinary measures are applied based on the nature of the offense and the past pattern of behavior of a student.
Schedule Changes
Schedule changes are to be arranged with the counselor during the first day of each trimester. Necessary changes made after five days may result in the student receiving an F grade for the trimester in courses being dropped. Two reasons for a schedule change will be considered:
• The student has not met the prerequisite for the scheduled course
• The student is scheduled for an inappropriate ability level.
Searches
School officials may search the student, his/her personal property and property assigned by the school for the student’s use at any time on school property or when the student is under the jurisdiction of the school. Such searches will be conducted only when there is reasonable suspicion to believe evidence of a violation of a law, board policy, administrative regulations or the Student Code of Conduct is present in a particular place. Lockers and other school storage areas provided for student use remain under the jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student. The school reserves the right to inspect all lockers without prior notice and for any reason. A student has full responsibility for the security of the locker and is responsible for making certain it is locked and that the combination is not available to others. Valuables should never be stored in the student’s locker.
School officials may also search when they have reasonable information that emergency/dangerous circumstances exist.
In cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, drug dogs may be used during the school day or at school activities.
Items found which is evidence of a violation of law, policy, regulation or the Student Code of Conduct may be seized and turned over to law enforcement or returned to its rightful owner, as appropriate.
Skateboards
According to school board policy, skateboards, scooters, and roller blades are not permitted on school property.
Student Complaint Procedures and Due Process
If a student believes that he/she has not received fair or equitable treatment the following procedure may be followed:
1. The student should arrange to meet with the staff member involved to discuss the concern. This is to be scheduled outside of class time.
2 If the concern is unresolved, the student should contact an administrator to arrange a conference that may include the administrator, student, staff member, counselor and parent(s).
3. If the concern remains unresolved, the student may submit a
written complaint to the building administration requesting a
conference with Superintendent.
Student Records
The school transcript is an official document which includes courses take, grades and test scores. All student records are open for inspection by the student, parent or legal guardian. Behavioral records, however, may be inspected only in the presence of school personnel qualified to interpret them. Student records (diplomas, transcript, report card) will not be issued if the student owes fees. Transcripts cannot be mailed to colleges without a signed student request.
Student Responsibilities
The mission of BHS is to provide a learning experience which will assist all students to develop skills, competencies, and attitudes that are fundamental to an individual’s achievement as a responsible, contributing citizen. In order to maintain and advance this mission, it shall be the responsibility and duty of each student to:
1. Respect the rights of others. Students have a responsibility to refrain from expressing personal prejudice toward any individual or group because of race, sex, age, handicapping condition, religion, national origin or language. Students will not be allowed to engage in conduct that interferes with the educational pursuit of other students.
2. Attend all classes each day on time with necessary materials
3. Participate in the learning process and take responsibility for one’s own learning.
4. Follow the direction of all adult staff.
5. Comply with rules of the district and school.
6. Submit to reasonable corrective action or punishment imposed by the district and its professional staff for violation(s) of its rules.
7. To conduct himself/herself in a manner that will not bring discredit upon you or other members of the school community.
Discipline in the schools aims to teach the following fundamental concepts:
a) Responsibility, self-discipline, and self-respect
b) Respect for the rights, dignity, and safety of all individuals within the school community
c) Respect for law and observance of school policies, procedures, rules and regulations
d) Respect for public and private property
The district has authority and control over a student at school during the regular school day, at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location and while being transported in district-provided transportation. Students will be subject to discipline consequences including but not limited to:
1. Bringing, possessing, concealing or using a weapon to or on
school property or at an activity under the jurisdiction of the school or at an interscholastic activity administered by a voluntary organization approved by the State Board of Education under ORS 339.430
2. Substance abuse or any possession, use, distribution or sale of tobacco, alcohol or unlawful drugs, including drug paraphernalia
3. Assault or menacing of a district employee or another student. Menacing means by word or conduct the student intentionally attempts to place a district employee or another student in fear of imminent physical harm
4. Use of threats, targeted lists, intimidation, harassment or coercion against any fellow student or district employee
5. Willful damage or destruction of district property
6. Willful damage or destruction of private property on district
premises or during district activities
7. Open defiance of a staff member’s authority
(insubordination). Defiance includes failure to comply with a
reasonable request made by a staff member
8. Theft
9. Use or display of profane or obscene language
10. Violations of district transportation rules
11. Hazing
12. Sexual harassment
13. Disruption of the school environment
14. Persistent failure to comply with rules under the lawful directions of staff or district officials
Suspension
A student may be suspended from school for up to and including 10 school days for willful violations of the Student Code of Conduct. The length of the suspension will take into account the severity of the act and the previous behavior of the student. A reasonable and prompt effort will be made to notify the parents of a suspended student.
While under suspension, a student may not attend after-school activities and athletic events, be present on district property nor participate in activities directed or sponsored by the district. Days missed due to a suspension will be treated as an absence, and schoolwork missed may be made up upon the student’s return to school.
A student may be given an in-school suspension in lieu of an out-of –school suspension. While serving an in-school suspension, students will follow the same rules as those in detention and any others as deemed appropriate by the supervisor and administration. When assigned to in-school suspension the student will be given a form outlining rules and expectations. If a student is removed from the room for misbehavior he/she will be assigned an out-of-school suspension.
Telephone
The pay telephone, located by the main entrance, is for student use. The office telephone is available for students needing to make calls relating to school business or for emergencies. This phone is only available before/after school, during passing periods and only with a teacher’s note during class time. These calls are limited to one (1) minute.
Textbooks/Equipment
Students are responsible for their textbooks and instructional equipment loaned to them. Students will be charged a replacement cost for books checked out and not returned at the end of the school year. Students will also be charged $5.00 for defacing or damaging books that still can be used by the school district. The presence of obscene pictures or profane language will cause the book to be worthless to the school district and the student will be assessed a full replacement charge. Students should not loan their books to others, nor leave their hall lockers open.
Valedictorian/Salutatorian
The Valedictorian will be the graduating student(s) with the highest grade point average (GPA) as computed at the end of 11 trimesters (or equivalent) of high school work. The Salutatorian will be the graduating student(s) with the second highest GPA as computed at the end of the same period. GPA is based on a 4.0 non-weighted scale. To be eligible for either academic award, a student must:
1. Be enrolled at BHS by the first day of the first trimester of the student’s Junior year;
2. Be enrolled continuously through the end of the third trimester of the student’s Senior year;
3. Be enrolled in a full day’s schedule for the student’s entire high school career;
4. Have earned a minimum of 24 credits in graded courses;
5. Must meet or exceed all CIM requirements.
Visitors
Adult visitors are not allowed on campus without the Principal’s permission. Student visitors are not allowed.
Withdrawal from School
A student withdrawing from school must contact the Counseling Office prior to the last day of attendance. All books, materials and locks must be returned and fees paid. Withdrawal grades and transcripts will be sent to the new school upon official request.
Disciplinary Infractions and Consequences
Disciplinary infractions are given a numerical value based upon their seriousness. The number represents the minimum starting point in terms of consequences. Repeated offenses may result in the assigning of a higher number for an infraction. The points assigned range from a level of 1 to 7. The possible consequences for assigned points are as follows.
Consequences for Disciplinary Points
1 After school detention
2 After school detention or Friday detention
3 Friday detention or one day out-of-school suspension
4 One day out-of-school suspension
5 Two day out-of-school suspension
6 Four day out-of-school suspension to a maximum of one year expulsion and a probable mental health evaluation
7 Expulsion to a maximum of one year, alternative placement or withdrawal
• Level 1 disciplinary infractions
No valid hall pass
Students are not permitted to be outside their assigned classroom or workstation without a pass during class time. Students with hall passes are not to take detours, and are to proceed promptly to their destination and back to the classroom. Students may have their hall pass privilege suspended for receiving a no valid hall pass referral. The privilege may also be suspended for over use of hall passes, too many tardies or absences, failing classes and/or behavioral problems.
Disruptive behavior
Students may not engage in any conduct which causes or which creates a reasonable likelihood that it will cause a disruption in or material interference with any school function, activity, or purpose, or that interferes with or creates a reasonable likelihood that it will interfere with the health, safety or well being, or the rights of others.
Any adult staff member may determine what constitutes disruptive behavior.
Public displays of affection
Inappropriate public displays of affection between students are not acceptable on the school campus. Acceptable behavior will include holding of hands, or a brief and gentle hug. Unacceptable behavior will include prolonged embraces and/or kisses and inappropriate touching. An offensive public display of affection can be considered to be a form of sexual harassment toward anyone who witnesses it.
Failure to follow a reasonable request or directive of adult staff
A request or directive is considered to be reasonable if it does not violate the law or school policy, and does not jeopardize the health and/or safety of the student.
Computer/Internet use violation
Students will be required to sign an agreement to abide by the district’s Computer Internet Guidelines. Violation of the policy can result in discipline consequences up to and including recommendation for expulsion and referral to law enforcement officials. This level one designation applies to only minor violations of the policy. Students are urged to read, understand and abide by the district’s Computer Internet Guidelines.
• Level 2 disciplinary infractions
Uncooperative, disrespectful or contemptuous/insolent behavior
Students shall not engage in any act that degrades, disgraces, demeans or undermines authority of an adult staff member, or tends
to do so. Students shall not disregard, fail to respond or as stated above fail to carry out a reasonable request.
Dress code violation
Violation of the student dress code including that portion dealing head coverings and the ban on possession of backpacks during school time begins as a level 2 offense. Subsequent violations by a student will be assigned a higher numerical value resulting in possible in-school suspension or out-of-school suspension. Also, head coverings may be confiscated by staff, and returned to the student at a time determined by an administrator.
Prohibited electronic devices
No student is permitted to carry a laser pointer, pocket pager, cell phone or any electronic communication device in school. These devices may be stored in a student’s vehicle without penalty. Walkmans and/or headphones are not to be in students’ possession anytime during the school day. These devices may be confiscated and may be picked up in the office at the end of the day. If a student has a device confiscated a second time, the student’s parent must contact the office to make arrangements for the return of the device.
Leaving school without properly checking out
BHS has a closed campus. Students who arrive after the first ten minutes of first period must check in at the office no matter how late in the day they arrive. When it is necessary for students to leave campus during the school day, they must present a note from the parent to the attendance secretary requesting the release from classes. These check out requests are to be made before school, otherwise a parent contact must be made to verify the request. There are special provisions for checking out and leaving campus at lunchtime. They are described on page 28.
Unauthorized absence from class
Students must attend their scheduled classes. Only by prearranging with the instructors may students be anywhere on campus other than where scheduled to be. Students who become ill need to report to the office, and should not remain in a restroom during the period
Loitering or unauthorized presence on campus
Students are not to be on campus at a location other than where and when authorized and must leave school property when ordered to do so. This restriction applies to students who are on a shortened schedule. If a student does not have a scheduled class, extra curricular activity or legitimate reason to be on campus he/she should not be on the school property. Loitering on community or public property while exercising on off campus privilege may result in the loss of the privilege. Students who have been suspended or expelled may be cited for criminal trespass if found on campus.
Forgery/false representation
Students will not falsify names, dates, grades, addresses, etc. or fraudulently use the name of another person in writing or on the phone.
Violation of campus driving or parking lot regulations
Driving to school and parking on school premises is a privilege, not a right. Skateboards and motorized scooters are not allowed anywhere on the school campus. Students must have a motor vehicle operator’s license. Students’ vehicles must be parked in the designated student parking area. Students must drive with care at all times. Students are to be in the parking area only when entering or leaving the campus. Also, no students shall be in a vehicle parked on campus before school, during school or during the lunch period unless authorized by a member of the BHS staff. In addition to the consequence for a level 2 referral, students might be issued a citation and/or lose their privilege to bring a vehicle onto school property.
Profanity and/or obscene language or gestures
A student shall not use profanity or obscene language, either written or verbal in communicating with anyone at any time on campus. Included in this prohibition is the use of obscene gestures, signs, pictures or publications.
Safety violations
Students should not engage in any activity that in the judgment of a staff member jeopardizes their safety or the safety of others. This includes but is not limited to horseplay/rough housing, throwing objects, running in the hallways, littering, water guns, water balloons and obstructing hallway traffic.
Unauthorized absence from detention
Students must serve detention when scheduled unless other arrangements have been made in advance with an administrator. If a student has an excused absence from school on the day a detention is to be served the student must do the detention on the first day back. It is the student’s responsibility to do this, without a reminder from an administrator.
Lying/false testimony
A student shall not falsely report incidents, falsely accuse or give false testimony to school personnel. When school personnel are attempting to determine the facts concerning alleged disciplinary infractions it is very important and helpful that students tell the truth. They do not have to incriminate themselves, however, if they give false testimony they may be issued a disciplinary referral for doing so.
• Level 3 disciplinary infractions
Unauthorized leaving of school
Students are not to leave campus without authorization, and they must check out in the office with an adult staff member. This requirement includes leaving campus for any reason other than a school sponsored activity. The administration has the discretion to determine if a student did not check out properly or simply ditched class and left the campus without permission. If a teacher has given permission for a student to leave the campus, the student must be sure to check out in the office.
If a freshman or sophomore student needs to check out and leave campus at lunchtime he/she must have a parent or guardian come into the office and check him/her out. Phone calls and notes will not be accepted. Students can be considered to be off campus at lunchtime if they are anywhere other than in the designated areas of the building, or on the sidewalk and lawn on the east side (front) of the building adjacent to the student parking lot. The parking lot is considered to be off campus.
Persistent or willful disobedience
Willfully or continually failing to abide by rules, procedures or reasonable requests of staff is not acceptable. This would be considered to be more than failing to follow a reasonable directive, but something less that outright insubordination.
Damage, theft or possession of stolen personal or school property
The destruction, damage (even if inadvertent), theft or the attempt to damage or steal the property of the school or others shall result in detention or suspension and perhaps even recommendation for expulsion. Students shall also not be in the possession of stolen property. Stolen property will be returned to its owner. A student will be responsible for restitution that can include payment for replacement, material and/or labor. A student may also be personally responsible to provide service or labor. The student may be referred to law enforcement for possible citation and/or arrest.
Dismissal from detention
There are specific behavioral expectations when serving detention. Students will be informed of these. If a student is removed from detention for failure to comply with them or a directive of the supervisor he/she will be given a disciplinary referral, and unless there is a mitigating circumstance will be assigned a Friday detention.
Physically or verbally threatening or intimidating another student
This includes profanity directed toward another student, attempting to provoke a fight, name-calling, hazing or any conduct that in any way intimidates another student. Such behavior will be treated as level 3 offense if it is an isolated, one time event, however, an administrator has the authority to treat an incident as a more serious infraction and deal with it accordingly. If it has been a repetitive behavior or if the conduct is related to another student’s race, gender, ethnicity or handicap it will it will be considered to be more serious and treated as such.
• Level 4 disciplinary infractions
Dismissal from Friday detention
Friday detentions are assigned in lieu of out-of school suspensions. If a student is removed from Friday detention for failure to follow the rules he/she will be sent home to serve an out-of-school suspension.
Intimidation of a witness or interfering with the administration of a discipline policy
Students are not to harass, threaten or intimidate a witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either preventing that person from being a witness, affecting the testimony of the witness or retaliating against that person for being a witness. Students must also refrain from discussing a disciplinary proceeding with a witness if instructed not to do so by a staff member.
• Level 5 disciplinary infractions
Tobacco and look-alike substances
The use, possession or distribution of tobacco in any form is not permitted on the BHS campus, on buses, or while attending school activities, functions or school related events away from school grounds. Law enforcement officers will cite violators under 18. The tobacco product and/or paraphernalia will be confiscated. The consequences for tobacco look-alike substances are the same as for real tobacco products.
Verbal or physical harassment of a student
Students are not to cause, threaten to cause, attempt to cause or participate in the harassment, threatening or intimidating of another student. Any incident involving such behavior may be treated as a level 5 offense. If a student engages in a pattern of such behavior, it will be considered a level 5 offense. Any harassment based upon race, ethnicity or handicap or any form of sexual harassment is also a level 5 offense.
Slurs, degrading remarks and comments of an inciteful nature directed toward another are not acceptable.
Sexual harassment includes but is not limited to verbal, physical or written unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, physical contact of a sexual nature or inappropriate gestures. Any sexually explicit name-calling or use of sexually explicit verbal or written language is prohibited. Both victim and the offender can be of either gender. A third party may also file a complaint.
It is strongly encouraged that students simply refrain from saying or doing anything that has reference to sex that might have a negative impact on another or in any way is considered to be offensive to the person to whom it is directed or to anyone who hears, reads or sees it.
Fighting/disorderly conduct
Any physical altercation between students in which they inflict or attempt to inflict any bodily harm to one another can be considered to be a fight. An attempt will be made to determine if there is an aggressor. Regardless of who “starts” a fight, if a student inflicts or attempts to inflict bodily harm on another, he/she will be given a referral for fighting. A student has the right to protect himself/herself, but should not physically retaliate. Law enforcement authorities will be called anytime a fight occurs.
Activating a false alarm
Any student tampering with or activating a fire alarm for other than the intended purpose will be suspended and cited by law enforcement authorities.
Gangs
The presence of gangs and the violent activities and drug abuse that often accompany gang involvement can cause a substantial disruption of school, district activities and a student’s ability to meet curriculum and attendance. A gang
is defined as any group that identifies itself through the use of a name, unique appearance or language, including hand signs, the claiming of geographical territory or the espousing of a distinctive belief system that frequently results in criminal activity.
No student on or about district property or at any district activity shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge or any other such symbol evidencing gang membership or affiliation. No student shall use any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (gestures, handshakes, etc.) signifying gang membership or affiliation. No student shall solicit other students for membership in any gangs.
• Level 6 disciplinary infractions
Physical assault of a student
An assault is any threat, attempt or actual inflicting of bodily harm upon another person when the other person does not wish to engage in the physical contact and seeks to avoid the confrontation, and the other person’s actions are self-defensive. Law enforcement authorities will be called.
Abusive expression directed toward staff
A student is not to use any abusive language or gesture directed toward or in reference to a member of the BHS staff. This applies to written language as well. Abusive language includes but is not limited to anything the staff considers to be obscene, demeaning, degrading or intimidating.
Alcohol, drugs, paraphernalia and look-alike substances violation
Students shall not possess, use, distribute or be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, drug paraphernalia or any other illegal, harmful, or controlled drug without proper prescription, on school grounds, on buses, or while attending school activities, functions or school-related events away from school grounds. In order to be allowed to attend certain school functions, students may be asked to take a Breathalyzer test. (This policy also applies to drug residue on paraphernalia or in containers.) Any violation of this policy will result in immediate notification of law enforcement officials. BHS has a zero tolerance policy with regards to this infraction, and under most circumstances will recommend that a student be expelled.
Possession of a Knife
Knives of all types including pocket knives are not to be brought to school.
• Level 7 disciplinary infractions
Assault of school personnel
An assault is any threat, attempt or actual inflicting of bodily harm upon another person. Any threatening or menacing behavior or language directed toward or in reference to a member of the staff can be considered to be an assault. Actual physical contact is not necessary. This policy will also be enforced should such an incident occur off campus at anytime.
Bomb threats, arson and threats of violence
Any attempt or threat to bomb the school or commit any terrorist-like action including intentional fire setting can result in recommendation for expulsion. The use of school equipment or educational time to collect terrorist-like information, or the possession of such information at school can also result in recommendation for expulsion.
Weapon possession
Bringing, possessing, concealing or using a weapon to or on school property or at an activity under the jurisdiction of the school is an offense that will result in the recommendation for expulsion. The definition of what is a weapon is as described in the state statutes. It includes but is not limited to firearms, metal knuckles, clubs, etc. Students should know that possession of a firearm on or within 1,000 feet of school grounds is a crime and can also result in recommendation for expulsion. This prohibition applies to having a weapon in a vehicle as well. Do not bring any firearms onto the campus.
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