
In or out of the classroom unsafe or disrespectful behavior must be immediately addressed. The goal is to use the problem as an opportunity for the misbehaving child to effect positive change at this teachable moment and to provide an appropriate consequence.
Unsafe or disrespectful behavior must be taken seriously. It is important to remember that there is no one right way to address this type of behavior in that the circumstances, frequency, complexity, and special needs are all considerations when determining appropriate consequences. At the same time the following guide provides a starting point for determining a suitable strategy to extinguish unwanted behavior, encourage appropriate social conduct and provide an appropriate consequence.
School is an important place for children to learn the social skills they will need to be successful in life. Misbehavior is an opportunity to teach the child kindness, self-discipline, trustworthiness and respect. To make a difference in helping the child to develop a conscience to guide them in future life, the consequence is most effectively related to the misbehavior.
At West County Elementary School, we follow a progressive discipline plan where discipline interventions begin at the least intrusive level and work up to more restrictive and punitive levels if a student continues to repeat poor choices and inappropriate behaviors.
Flexibility and effective action are the keys. First and foremost, the consequence must be related to the misbehavior, considering any special needs the child may have.
Administrators have the responsibility and authority to deal with all issues even though the specific problems might not be listed in the guide. Parents will usually receive written notice of the disciplinary actions. The district reserves the right to contact the police and file a report whenever it is deemed appropriate.
The discipline policies apply at all times while students are on the school premises, on school transportation, or at any activity under the supervision of the school, even though the activity may be at another location such as a school trip.
All school personnel have the responsibility to instruct, guide, and supervise students during school and school-sponsored activities with the objectives of promoting learning experiences and responding effectively to unacceptable student behavior.
Discipline Rubric
| Level 1 These are inappropriate behaviors that disrupt the school environment or distract from the educational experience of others. These behaviors require intervention by school personnel to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment. |
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| Offense | 1st Office Referral | 2nd Office Referral | 3rd Office Referral |
| ASAP Misconduct Not following rules, disrespectful, insubordination, fighting, etc. |
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| Bus Misconduct Not following rules, disrespectful, insubordination *The West St. Francois County R-IV School District may employ the non-discriminate use of video cameras on the school buses to monitor student behavior. |
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| Cheating, Forgery, Plagiarism Presenting the work of others as one’s own |
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| Classroom Disruption Interruption to the classroom / learning environment |
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| Defiant Failure to respond to adult requests and/or directives. |
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| Disrespect toward staff or students Lack of respect or courtesy |
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| Dress Code Violation Failure to comply to dress code standards |
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| Horseplay Running in hallways, cafeteria, pushing and shoving in line, overall unruly behavior, but not limited to the above |
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| Inappropriate Actions or Gestures A gesture is a movement or position of the body, especially of the hands or arms, that is considered exceedingly offensive or vulgar in some particular cultures. Such gestures are often sexually suggestive. |
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| Inappropriate Behavior Inappropriate behavior means conduct that is unwarranted and is reasonably interpreted to be demeaning or offensive. Persistent, repeated inappropriate behavior can become a form of harassment |
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| Inappropriate Language Language which is inappropriate; may or may not be used in an abusive/threatening manner |
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| Lunch Room Violations |
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| Lying Stating / repeating statements that are untrue |
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| Misconduct in Restrooms |
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| Noncompliant Noncompliant behavior involves behavior that does not conform to or follow the rules, regulations, or advice of others. |
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| Physical Contact Inappropriate touching, pushing, shoving; behavior that could lead to a fight |
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| Possession of cellphones, electronic devices, toys, gum, candy, etc. |
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| Property Misuse |
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| Schoolwork Incomplete |
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| Tardy Failure to be in a designated place at the designated time |
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| Technology Usage Violation |
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| Level 2 Acts directed against persons or property but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school. Consideration will be given to the seriousness of the inappropriate behavior, the intensity and duration of the inappropriate behavior, and the frequency of referrals for this or similar inappropriate behavior. The administrator may use any of the consequences in the appropriate order or combination taking into consideration the child’s age, grade and other extenuating circumstances. |
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| Offense | 1st Office Referral | 2nd Office Referral | 3rd Office Referral |
| Repeated Violations of Level 1 Behaviors |
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| Acts of Hate/Violence |
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| Bullying |
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| Cyberbullying |
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| Fighting Mutual combat between students either physical or verbal |
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| Harassment / Teasing Sexual, bullying (written, verbal, symbolic language) |
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| Insubordination Refusal through verbal or other actions to immediately cooperate with any legitimate request of a teacher or administrator |
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| Malicious Pranks |
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| Theft / Stealing |
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| Threats / Verbal Assault |
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| Vandalism / Destruction of Property |
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| Level 3 Acts which result in violence to another person or property, or which pose a direct threat to the safety of others in the school. These acts are clearly criminal and serious in nature that they may require administrative actions which result in immediate removal of the student from the school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities and action by the Board of Education. |
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| Offense | 1st Office Referral | 2nd Office Referral | 3rd Office Referral |
| Unmodified Level 2 Behaviors |
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| Acts of Hate / Violence |
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| Arson Starting a fire or causing an explosion with the intention to damage property or building |
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| Assault / Battery |
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| Bomb Threat |
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| Physical Attack on Staff or Fellow Student |
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| Possession/Selling/Furnishing of Controlled, Unauthorized Substance, Drugs, Alcohol, Vape, Tobacco, etc. |
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| Possession/Use/Transfer of Dangerous Weapons |
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Please be aware that positive reward and reinforcement is given for GOOD Behavior. The staff at the Elementary school believe that is important to acknowledge positive behaviors; but we are realistic and know that misbehavior will and do occur. Our handling of all behavior is consistent and objective. The action of the student is rewarded or punished, NOT the child. Our overall goal is to promote self-control, responsibility, and respect for others and themselves.
This handbook is intended to be used as a policy guide for students, parents, teachers, and administrators. All parties should be familiar with its contents. Through the consistent use of classroom rules by the teacher and this policy by the administrator, the student will have a clear idea of the type of behavior expected of him/her. It will also be very clear to the student and his/her parents which consequences may be imposed upon him/her if undesirable behavior occurs.
PHILOSOPHY OF DISCIPLINE
We believe that a safe and orderly environment is required in order for maximum learning to occur. All students have a responsibility to act appropriately in the following areas: in transport to and from school; anytime while on the school campus; and at all school-related activities. It is the responsibility of students, parents, and school staff to cooperate in maintaining behavior, which will advance the purpose of education. Students are expected to treat peers, themselves, and staff with dignity and respect.
In order to help provide a learning atmosphere for each student, all teachers will have the approved Code of Conduct posted in their classroom along with any other classroom rules.
When staff members find it necessary to have a student report to the office because of a specific behavior, the administrator then will use this policy to assist in determining an appropriate consequence. The administrator will weigh each situation carefully and then, at his/her discretion, will choose an appropriate consequence(s). The consequences listed under each subheading are optional choices available to the administrator. If the seriousness of the offense or the frequency of the misbehavior should warrant it, the administrator has the privilege of foregoing the suggested consequences outlined in this policy book and taking whatever action is deemed necessary. Failure of the student to complete the assigned disciplinary consequences will result in the assignment of alternative consequences as deemed necessary by the administrator.
SPECIAL SERVICES STUDENTS
All Special Services students are expected to follow the district discipline plan unless otherwise specified in the student’s individual education plan (IEP). If a student has an individualized discipline plan as a part of his/her IEP, school personnel will implement the individual plan in lieu of the district plan. Modifications to a student’s individualized discipline plan will be made by the IEP team (student, parents, teachers, and administrator).
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
The Board of Education has the legal authority to discipline (including suspension and expulsion) a student for his or her conduct, which is prejudicial to good order and discipline in the schools. The Board may also delegate to the superintendent the responsibility to make reasonable and necessary rules and regulations governing the conduct of students in the district. Building principals are responsible for the development
of rules and regulations regarding student conduct needed to maintain proper behavior in schools under their supervision. These rules will apply to all students in attendance in district instructional and support programs as well as school-sponsored activities and events.
Flagrant disregard for policies, rules, and regulations or continued truancy may result in suspension by the superintendent or expulsion. The superintendent may suspend a student for one hundred eighty (180) days; however, expulsion of the student is a function only of the Board of Education.
Teachers shall have the authority to make and enforce necessary rules for the internal governance in the classroom, subject to the endorsement by the building principal. The Board expects each teacher to establish and maintain a satisfactory code of conduct in the classroom. As students progress in the district's schools, it is reasonable to assume an increase in age and maturity will result in the students taking greater responsibility for their actions. It is recognized that differences in age and maturity require different types of disciplinary action. When formal disciplinary action occurs, a student will be made aware of the charges, will be given an opportunity to respond to the charges, and then be given a notification of any disciplinary action that will take place. Any time a referral that warrants formal disciplinary action is submitted, a reasonable effort will be made by the principal/teacher to either contact the parent/guardian by written notice delivered by the student, through the mail, or by direct telephone contact.
The school district respects the confidentiality of all students and their information, therefore parents/guardians are not permitted to see/review video or audio recordings of students.
CELL PHONE
In compliance with this new Missouri law (SB 1481), West County will implement the following policy:
GUM, CANDY, and BEVERAGES
Maintaining a clean, safe, and appropriate environment for education takes everyone’s help. It is for this reason that gum, candy, and soda are not allowed in school. Drinks are not allowed to be taken out of the cafeteria.
DETENTION AND/OR ALTERNATIVE PLACEMENT OF STUDENTS
The provision of In-School Suspension (ISS) or an alternative placement program for student violations of policies, rules, and regulations shall provide principals with an alternative for dealing with discipline problems. When this alternative is appropriate, students will be assigned to serve ISS or be put in the alternative placement program. The principal shall determine these assignments and the determination of the time period for the assignment. Students currently serving Out of School Suspension (OSS) or placed in the alternative school will not be allowed to attend any school function.
DRESS CODE
The purpose of the West County R-IV dress code is to promote an image of personal pride in appearance, which is in good taste and meets the basic requirements of decency. Students not meeting the guidelines below will be dealt with according to the discipline policy. Any staff member of the West County School District can make determinations of decency.
A final decision on what constitutes acceptable dress or grooming styles is made by administration.
HARASSMENT
The West County School District is committed to providing an environment free from intimidating, hostile or offensive behavior, sexual harassment, bullying, and threats made toward students or staff members. Sexual harassment by an employee, student, or other person in the district against any person is prohibited.
Allegation of sexual harassment shall be investigated and, if substantiated, corrective or disciplinary action taken, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion of the student or suspension and/or termination of the employee.
BUS RULES
In order that a more uniform type of discipline can be obtained on West County R-IV School District buses, the following rules regarding student conduct on all buses have been developed.
FIGHTING, STEALING AND VANDALISM
Fighting, stealing, and vandalizing will be given a more severe penalty with each consecutive violation. These violations will accumulate during the entire length of the middle school enrollment.
BULLYING
It is the goal of this school to provide a safe and secure educational environment for all students. Bullying is intolerable and will be taken very seriously. Bullying is defined as unwanted, intentional, aggressive behavior that involves real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, over time. Can be physical, verbal, relational, or cyber. Students being or witnessing bullying should report the incident to school officials immediately.
NON-SCHOOL ITEMS
Possession of non-school items that have no legitimate educational purpose are not allowed during school hours and will be confiscated and returned back to the parent.
Examples would include but are not limited to:
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)
All students are required to be enrolled and participate in physical education. Participation is defined as dressing in school-appropriate attire, wearing non-marring soled shoes, and actively engaging in the day’s activities. Failure to participate will result in reduction of grade and possible disciplinary action.
RESTROOMS
When students use the restroom, they are expected to do so in a timely manner to minimize disruptions to learning. Students should also respect privacy by adhering to the rule that only one student occupies one stall at any given time. Any violation of this privacy rule, such as being caught in stalls together, will result in disciplinary action. Additionally, students are encouraged to promptly report any cleanliness or maintenance issues they encounter to ensure a hygienic environment for all. Vape and excess noise detectors have been installed in all bathrooms. Students found to have tampered with or broken any detectors will be subject to disciplinary action.
STUDENT SUSPENSION AND APPEAL PROCESS
The Board of Education believes that the right of a student to attend West County Middle School carries with it the responsibility of the student to attend school regularly and to comply with the lawful policies, rules, and regulations of the school district. This observance of school policies, rules, and regulations is essential for permitting others to learn at school. Therefore, the administrative decision to remove a student from the school because of willful violation of school rules and regulations shall be permitted, provided such action is taken in accordance with due process and with due regard for the welfare of both the individual and the school. As a part of the re-entry process following a suspension, an effort will be made to meet with the student, the student’s parents, a school administrator, and other appropriate personnel who have a vested interest in that student (Caring Communities social workers, Division of Family Services caseworkers, juvenile officers, teachers, counselors, etc.). School attendance may be temporarily denied to individuals by the administrative act of summary suspension, but expulsion can be implemented only through specific action by the Board of Education.
The Board authorizes the summary suspension of pupils by building principals for a period not to exceed ten (10) school days and by the superintendent for a period not to exceed one hundred eighty (180) school days, provided such action is in accordance with due process and state statutes. The Board of Education must be notified of any suspension exceeding ten (10) days. The student and/or parent/guardian may appeal the principal's decision of suspension to the superintendent.
In the case of suspension of a student by the superintendent for a period of more than ten (10) days, the student and parents/guardians may appeal the decision of the superintendent to the Board of Education. Upon filing of the appeal, the suspension, as determined by the superintendent, shall be stayed until the Board renders its decision, unless in the judgment of the superintendent the student's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process. In such a case, the judgment shall be immediately transmitted to the student, and parents/guardians and the student shall be immediately removed from school. Upon the filing of a request for an appeal of the superintendent's decision to suspend a student for more than a period of ten (10) days, the superintendent shall promptly transmit a written report to the Board, indicating the facts relating to the suspension, the action taken by the superintendent and other administrative officials, and the reasons for such action. The Board upon request shall grant a hearing to the appealing party at its next regularly scheduled Board meeting or a special meeting of the Board of Education.
STUDENT EXPULSION
The Board of Education may originate suspension or expulsion proceedings on its own motion for student conduct, which is deemed prejudicial to good order and discipline in the schools or which tends to impair the moral or good conduct of the student. However, only the Board has the authority to expel a student from school.
If a student consistently refuses to conform to school policies, rules, and/or regulations, the principal and/or superintendent may recommend to the Board of Education that the student be expelled from school. The Board will review such recommendations and decide whether to proceed with an expulsion hearing. Should an expulsion hearing be deemed necessary, the following points shall serve as the guideposts for the proceedings:
Re-admission of an expelled student is possible only through consent of the Board of Education.
STUDENT PARTICIPATION
Any student under a suspension or an expulsion may not participate or attend a school function on the day of that suspension/expulsion.
TRANSPORTATION
Students who reside one mile from their school of attendance are eligible for free transportation. This is a privilege and can be revoked due to inappropriate behavior. Rules that should be observed while on the bus are listed in this document. All student behavior will be disciplined as if it occurred at school. In addition, bus privileges will be revoked for a progressive predetermined length of time. At any time administration can revoke bus privileges from a student if it is in the best interest of the other students.
DEFINITIONS
ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL (A.S.) – Placement in the WCAPP School
AFTER SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ASD) – Placement in After School Detention from 3-5 p.m.
CHRONIC OFFENDER – Subject to review by the principal with recommendation to the superintendent for continued action by the Board of Education
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT – Administering of swats to the buttocks area with a paddle in accordance to board policy
DAYS – Actual school days in session (does not include weekends and holidays)
DETENTION (DT) – Separating child from normal routine at noon, before school, after school, or on Saturday
INAPPROPRIATE DISPLAY OF AFFECTION – The public display of affection between any two individuals and may include but is not limited to hand holding, arm-in-arm, inappropriate touches, hugging, and kissing
IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS) – Students may be assigned to In-School Suspension. Those students who are assigned will be given all assignments missed in the regular classroom and will also receive remedial assignments to complete that focus on the basics of education and the state assessment. Students will be required to complete these additional assignments before being allowed to return to the regular classroom.
MISBEHAVIOR NOT COVERED – This will be dealt with by the administrator in charge as he/she deems necessary.
OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) – Out-of-school suspension is suspension that does not count toward the attendance policy but students are not allowed to receive credit for missed assignments.
All discipline occurrences will be documented in the student’s discipline record.
Discipline Rubric
| Offense | 1st Office Referral | 2nd Office Referral | 3rd Office Referral |
| Academic Integrity/Cheating Cheating can be defined as: not using a student's own original work which would include using any resources not specifically allowed by the teacher. |
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| Affection Inappropriate display of |
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| Alcohol/Drugs Smell/Possession of/use of/under influence of at school/school activity, selling, of drug paraphernalia |
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| Arson Starting a fire or causing an explosion with the intention to damage property or building |
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| ASAP Violation Not attending required after-school tutoring without prior approval |
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| Assault Cumulative over middle school career |
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| Attendance Violations The SRO will contact the parent/guardian, in writing, at 21 hours of absence. A written warning will be given to the student at 35 hours. |
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| Bullying Unwanted, intentional, aggressive behavior that involves real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, over time. Can be physical, verbal, relational, or cyber. |
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| Bus Incidents Not following rules, disrespectful, insubordination. *The West St. Francois County R-IV School District may employ the non-discriminate use of video cameras on the school buses to monitor student behavior. |
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| Cell Phone Use |
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| Classroom Disruption |
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| Disrespect Toward Staff |
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| Dress Code Violation |
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| Extortion |
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| False Alarms |
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| Fighting Mutual combat between students either physical or verbal *These violations accumulate over the length of the middle school career. |
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| Fireworks, stink bombs, mace discharge, or possession of on school grounds or bus |
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| General Misconduct Any conduct that is not listed separately in the student handbook. |
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| Harassment Sexual, Bullying, (written, verbal, symbolic language) |
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| Horseplay Running in halls, cafeteria, pushing and shoving in line, overall unruly behavior, but not limited to the above. |
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| Inappropriate Language Use of words or Actions: verbal, written or symbolic – meant to harass, injure, or demean another person |
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| Insubordination refusal through verbal or other actions to immediately cooperate with any legitimate request of any school personnel. |
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| Lighters |
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or
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| Lunch Time Violations Cutting line, throwing food, excessive noise, failing to bring lunch card (per quarter) |
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| Pornographic Material Possessing, distributing, or viewing |
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| Profanity |
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| Racial Remarks |
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| Recording of Fights |
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| Stealing/Possession of Stolen Property Accumulate during middle school career |
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| Tardy Tardies/Unprepared are kept on a quarterly basis. A student will be referred to the office when they have accumulated 3 tardies and then will be referred for a warning for each tardy thereafter. |
5th Tardy Office Referral Parent Conference |
7th Tardy Parent Contact 3 days ISS |
9th Tardy Parent Contact 5 days of ISS Tardies are cumulative. Additional tardies may result in OSS or placement in APP School. |
| Technology Usage Violation |
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| Threats of Violence Can be verbal or written |
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| Tobacco/Vaping Use/Possession |
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| Truancy Skipping/leaving school |
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| Vandalism Deleting/adding computer software, damage to facilities or equipment belonging to the school district or its employees |
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| Weapon Possession of any instrument judged to be potentially harmful to others or battery with a weapon (look-alike weapons will be treated the same as an actual weapon) |
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BEHAVIORS NOT COVERED
While this Student Handbook provides guidelines and policies to promote a positive and safe educational environment, it may not cover every possible scenario or behavior. Students are expected to act with integrity, respect, and responsibility in all situations, including those not explicitly mentioned in this handbook. The school administration reserves the right to address any conduct that it deems inappropriate or harmful, even if such behavior is not specifically detailed herein. The building principal has the discretion to determine the appropriate consequences for any such behavior.
Punishment for each offense listed may vary according to the severity of the offense. Should misbehavior be extreme and/or the offender’s attitude be very negative, the maximum consequences may be implemented, even on the first offense.
Rules for In School Suspension
Students who refuse to serve ISS will be suspended the number of ISS. These days out will count on our attendance policy.
The purpose of discipline in the school setting is to prepare the student for life. As in society, in order to maintain an environment where people can live and learn, it is essential that rules be established and followed so that all may benefit from our education programs. Our goal is to prepare the student to discipline themselves, which is an important ingredient in reaching future goals.
Students need to be in school if they are to learn, however, from time to time we have students who have as their goal to disrupt class and prevent others from learning. At times it may be necessary to suspend students from school in order that others may learn. Schools need to be a safe place where students can reach their goals. We need to do what we can to ensure our schools are free from drugs and physical violence.
When students choose not to follow rules, in some cases we will utilize In-School Suspension (ISS). When these measures fail to correct the behavior, it may be necessary to use Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) or Alternative Placement School (APP).
The Alternative Placement Program (APP) may be used anytime that OSS is listed as the punishment for the infraction. APP is an extension of our school and, if assigned, the student MUST serve their time there before coming back to the high school. These days must be "quality" days where the student made measurable progress while he/she was there. The decision of "quality" days will be made by the APP administrator. Transportation will be provided to and from the APP campus by the West County School District.
The student code of conduct is designed to foster student responsibility, respect for the rights of others and to ensure the orderly operation of district schools. No code can be expected to list each and every offense that may result in the use of disciplinary action. However, it is the purpose of this code to list certain offenses which, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a certain disciplinary action. Any conduct not included herein, or an aggravated circumstance of any offense or action involving a combination of offenses may result in disciplinary consequences that extend beyond this code of conduct as determined by the principal, superintendent and/or Board of Education. In extraordinary circumstances where the minimum consequence is judged by the superintendent or designee to be manifestly unfair or not in the interest of the district, the superintendent or designee may reduce the consequences listed in this policy, as allowed by law.
NOTE: Any student that withdraws from school or goes to Home Schooling before completing an assigned disciplinary action will complete the disciplinary assignment upon return to school.
Below are listed specific infractions of rules and their corresponding punishments:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
The integrity of the academic program and the evaluation of each student’s achievement are of primary concern to all educational institutions. Cheating on any exercise not only reflects dishonesty on the part of the person cheating, but also diminishes the value of the work done. Cheating can be defined as: not using a student's original work which would include using any resources not specifically allowed by the teacher. Any student who cheats or plagiarizes is subject to the following:
| First Offense: | Zero credit for the work, grade reduction, replacement assignment, or 1-5 days ISS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Zero credit for the work, grade reduction, replacement assignment, course failure, removal from extracurricular activities, or 1-10 days ISS. |
*Second offense need not be in the same subject area. A student who is found copying a neighbor's math paper and is later discovered cheating on a social studies test will be guilty of a second offense.
AUTOMOBILE/VEHICLE MISUSE
Uncourteous or unsafe driving on or around school property, failure to move vehicle at the request of school officials, failure to follow the directions given by school officials, or failure to follow established rules for parking or driving on school property.
| First Offense: | Suspension or revocation of parking privileges, detention, ISS, 1-10 days of OSS, possible notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in the student’s discipline record. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Suspension or revocation of parking privileges, detention, ISS, 1-10 days of OSS, possible notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in the student’s discipline record. |
BEHAVIORS NOT COVERED
Punishment for each offense listed may vary according to the severity of the offense. Should misbehavior be extreme and/or the offender’s attitude be very negative, the maximum consequences may be implemented, even on the first offense.
BULLYING/CYBER BULLYING
The District is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment free of any form of bullying or intimidation by students toward District personnel or students on school grounds, or school time, at a school sponsored activity or in a school related context. "Bullying" means intimidation or harassment that causes a reasonable student to fear for his or her physical safety or property; substantially interferes with the educational performance, opportunities, or benefits of any student without exception; or substantially disrupts the orderly operation of the school. Bullying may consist of, but is not limited to, physical actions, including gestures, or oral, cyberbullying, electronic, or written communication, and any threat of retaliation for reporting of such acts. Bullying by students is prohibited on school property, at any school function, or on a school bus. "Cyberbullying" means bullying as defined in this subsection through the transmission of a communication including, but not limited to, a message, text, sound, or image by means of an electronic device including, but not limited to, a telephone, wireless telephone, or other wireless communication device, computer, or pager.”
Bullying/Cyber Bullying occurs when a student:
Students who are found to have violated this policy will be subject to:
| First Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, and/or possible referral to law enforcement. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, alternative school placement, and/or possible referral to law enforcement. Dependent on severity of offense. |
BUS OR TRANSPORTATION MISCONDUCT
Any offense committed by a student on transportation provided by or through the district shall be punished in the same manner as if the offense had happened at school. In addition, transportation privileges may be suspended or revoked.
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
The Board of Education has approved the use of corporal punishment provided all other remedies have failed to correct the behavior. This type of punishment will be used only by certified staff in the presence of a witness. See Board policy 2670.
DISRESPECTFUL CONDUCT OR SPEECH
Verbal, written or symbolic language or gesture directed at a staff member or other students that is rude, vulgar, defiant or considered inappropriate to public settings.
| First Offense: | Principal/ Student Conference, detention, ISS, or 1-180 days OSS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, expulsion. |
DRESS CUTS TO PE
Every student is expected to dress out for P.E. Students will be permitted three (3) dress cuts per semester unless they have a doctor’s excuse.
DRUGS/ALCOHOL (POSSESSION, SALE OR DISTRIBUTION)
a) Possession of or attendance while under the influence of or soon after consuming any unauthorized prescription drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants, counterfeit drugs or drug-related paraphernalia, including controlled substances and illegal drugs defined as substances identified under schedules I, II, III, IV or V in section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act.
| First Offense: | 1-180 days suspension, expulsion, possible notification to law enforcement officials, documentation in student’s permanent record. |
b) Sale, purchase or distribution of any prescription drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants, counterfeit drugs and/or drug-related paraphernalia, including controlled substances and illegal drugs defined as substances identified under schedules I, II, III, IV or V in section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act.
| First Offense: | 10 days OSS, Notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in student’s discipline record. Upon the considered judgment of the school administration, the superintendent is authorized to suspend the student for an additional 1-170 school days OSS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Referral to superintendent for expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in the student's discipline record. |
c) Violation of Board Policy 2870 “Administering Medicines to Students.” Students may not possess or self-administer prescription or non-prescription medications at school. When medicine is to be administered at school it is to be done by the school nurse or other authorized school employee and only with a doctor’s written permission for prescription medication. Over-the-counter medication can be administered only with the parents’ authorization. Forms may be found in the student folders and in the high school office. Students must bring all medications to the high school office and may not keep them in their possession while at school. In addition, students may not distribute prescription and/or non-prescription medicines to others. (See “b” above for consequences related to distribution of prescription or non-prescription drugs)
| First Offense: | ISS, 1-180 days OSS depending on severity of violation. |
*Any student found in violation of the drug/alcohol policy will be required to show proof of attending a drug/alcohol counseling program before returning to school.
*NOTE: The West County R-IV District may periodically use drug dogs under the supervision of the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department to inspect the school buildings and grounds for possible drug substances and paraphernalia. Also, WCR4 at discretion will test any device that may be used for administering and/or distribution of drug paraphernalia.
FALSE ALARMS
Tampering with emergency equipment, setting off false alarms, making false reports; communicating a threat or false report for the purpose of frightening, disturbing or causing the evacuation or closure of school property.
| First Offense: | Restitution. Principal/Student Conference, in-school suspension, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion, and immediate report to law enforcement. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Restitution. In-school suspension, 1–180 days OSS, or expulsion and immediate report to law enforcement. |
FIGHTING ON SCHOOL PROPERTY
The act of quarreling, involving bodily contact in or on school property, while going to and from school, including any activity under school sponsorship (dances, athletic events, bus, etc.) All parties actively involved will be subject to suspension.
| First Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, ISS, 1-180 days of OSS, expulsion, and/or possible referral to law enforcement. |
| Subsequent Offense: | ISS, 1-180 days of OSS, expulsion, and/or alternative placement. |
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS)
Students assigned ISS will not be permitted to return to regular classes until they satisfactorily complete the ISS assignment.
INSUBORDINATION
All students who attend West County High School are expected to cooperate with all staff members at school. Any student who refuses through verbal or other actions to immediately cooperate with any legitimate request of a teacher or administrator shall be subject to the following:
a) Parent notified and the student may be subject to 1-10 days of ISS or 1-180 days of OSS depending on the severity of the incident.
NON-SCHOOL RELATED RECREATIONAL OBJECTS
Non-school related recreational objects are not permitted here at school. We ask that they not be brought to school. Those who do not comply will be subject to the following:
a) If the student was cooperative and the incident did not disrupt class the device will be confiscated and turned into the office to be picked up at the end of the day.
b) If the incident was disruptive the device will be turned into the office and will be returned only after a parent conference is held. If the student refuses to surrender the object in question, the student will be sent to the office and discipline will relate to insubordination.
NOTIFICATION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS
Certain offenses in this code state that law enforcement officials will be notified. In situations where the student is sixteen years old and under, the Juvenile office will be notified. For students who are over sixteen years of age, city or county authorities will be notified.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS)
Students assigned to OSS may not be permitted to make-up work missed as a result of the suspension. In cases involving serious, continuous, or flagrant violation of rules, the Superintendent or Board of Education may assign additional punishment.
PHONES and OTHER PERSONALLY OWNED TECHNOLOGY DEVICES VIOLATION
In compliance with Missouri state law (Senate Bill 1481):
Personal electronic devices include, but are not limited to: Cell phones, Smartwatches (e.g., Apple Watch, Fitbit with messaging), Tablets (e.g., iPads), Wireless earbuds or headphones (e.g., AirPods), Gaming devices (e.g., Nintendo Switch), Any device capable of making calls, messaging, accessing the internet, taking photos, or recording audio/video
Office phone use is permitted with approval.
| First Offense: | Confiscation, Principal/Student Conference, ISS, Parent Contact |
| Second Offense: | Confiscation, Principal/Student Conference, ISS, Parent Contact, Parental Pick-up Required. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Confiscation, Principal/Student Conference, ISS, OSS, Parent Contact, Parental Pick-up Required. |
PROFANITY AND/OR THREATENING LANGUAGE/OBSCENE GESTURES/RACIAL COMMENTS
Language which is not appropriate or language such as name calling will not be permitted here at school.
| First Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, ISS, or 1-10 days OSS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion. |
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
Inappropriate display of affection such as kissing, embracing, etc. are not acceptable here at school. Keep your hands to yourself. Parents of students who do not comply with this directive will be notified. Principal/Student conference, detention, ISS, or 1-180 days OSS
| First Offense: | Principal/Student conference, detention, ISS, or 1-180 days OSS . |
| Subsequent Offense: | Detention, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion. |
SCHOOL RELATED ACTIVITIES
The rules in this code apply to all school sponsored activities including dances, sports activities, and club activities.
SETTING FIRES AT SCHOOL
Students found setting fires at school will be handled in the following manner:
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The school district is committed to providing an environment free of intimidating, hostile, or offensive behavior; unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct or communication constituting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment by an employee, student, or other person is prohibited.
Allegation of sexual harassment shall be investigated and, if substantiated, corrective or disciplinary action taken, up to the including suspension and/or expulsion of the student. Depending on the severity law enforcement officials may be notified.
A. Use of verbal, written or symbolic language that is sexually harassing.
| First Offense: | Principal/student conference, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion. |
| Subsequent Offense: | ISS, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion. |
B. Physical contact that is sexually harassing.
| First Offense: | ISS, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion. |
| Subsequent Offense: | 1-180 days OSS or expulsion. |
SHOOTING OR DISCHARGE OF FIREWORKS
The discharge of fireworks is not permitted on school property. Students who violate this directive will be handled in the following manner:
STRIKING A STAFF MEMBER
A student who strikes a staff member will be handled in the following manners:
STUDENT ASSAULT/HAZING
| First Offense: | 1-10 days ISS, 1-180 days OSS, possible notification to law enforcement officials and documentation in student’s discipline record. |
| Subsequent Offense | 1-10 days ISS, 1-180 days OSS, expulsion, notification of law enforcement officials and documentation in the student's discipline record. Depending on the severity, the student may be recommended to the Superintendent/Board for long term suspension. |
TARDINESS
Tardiness to class. Getting to class on time is important. We have four minutes between classes, so there is not a good reason for being late to class.
| First Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, or 1-3 days of ISS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Principal/Student Conference, detention, 1-10 days of ISS, 1-10 days of OSS. |
THEFT OR EXTORTION
Students who appropriate another’s property without their permission are guilty of theft. Students who attempt to gain another’s property through coercion are guilty of extortion. Students will be dealt with in the following manner:
| First Offense: | Principal/student conference, parent/guardian notified, ISS, 1-180 days OSS, restitution, depending on the nature of incident law enforcement officials may be notified. |
| Second Offense | Depending on the nature of the incident, notification to law enforcement officials, 1-180 days OSS, restitution, or expulsion. |
*Note: Students will not be allowed to attend extracurricular activities until such time as restitution has been made.
TOBACCO & E-CIG PRODUCTS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY (POSSESSION/USE) Tobacco and E-cig products are not to be brought on school property. Violators will have the product confiscated. For students caught smoking or chewing tobacco the following will occur:
| First Offense: | Confiscation of tobacco product or electronic cigarette, Principal/Student conference, detention, ISS, or 1-3 days OSS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | Confiscation of tobacco product or electronic cigarette, Principal/Student conference, detention, ISS, or 1-10 days OSS. |
*NOTE: The West County R-IV District may periodically use drug dogs under the supervision of the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department to inspect the school buildings and grounds for possible drug substances and paraphernalia. Also, WCR4 at discretion will test any device that may be used for administering and/or distribution of drug paraphernalia.
TRUANCY/SKIPPING CLASS OR SCHOOL
| First Offense: | a) Skipping Class. Parent notified, Principal/Student Conference, Detention, 1-3 days ISS. b) Skipping School (ALL DAY)Parent notified, Principal/Student Conference, Detention, 1-10 Days ISS. |
| Subsequent Offense: | a) Skipping Class. Parent notified, Principal/Student Conference, Detention, 1-10 Days ISS. b) Skipping School (ALL DAY)Parent notified, Principal/Student Conference, Detention, 1-10 Days ISS, 1-10 days OSS. |
UNAUTHORIZED PRESENCE ON CAMPUS
Persons who are not enrolled at West County are not permitted to be on campus during school hours unless they check in at the administrative office. Violators will be handled in the following manner:
Students who are suspended from school are not to be on campus or at any school function at another site for any reason, without permission from the school administrator. Failure to follow these directives will result in the following:
VANDALISM
The destruction of school property is serious. Anyone who willfully destroys school property will be subject to the following:
*NOTE- Students will not be allowed to attend extracurricular activities until such time as restitution has been made
WEAPONS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY
A. Possession or use of any instrument or device, other than those defined in 18 U.S.C. 921, 18 U.S.C. 930(g)(2) or 571.010, RSMo, which is customarily used for attack or defense against another person; any instrument or device used to inflict physical injury to another person.
| First Offense: | ISS, 1-180 days OSS, or expulsion, possible notification to law enforcement officials, possible APP placement, and documentation in the student's discipline record. |
| Subsequent Offense: | 1-180 days OSS or expulsion, notification to law enforcement officials, possible APP placement, and documentation in the student's discipline record. |
B. Possession or use of a firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921 or any instrument or device defined in 571.010, RSMo. or any instrument or device defined as a dangerous weapon in 18 U.S.C. 930(g)(2).
| First Offense: | One calendar year suspension or expulsion, unless modified by the Board upon recommendation by the superintendent, notification to law enforcement officials, and documentation in the student’s discipline record. |
Students with disabilities will be disciplined in accordance with the law.
Disciplinary Action Rubric
| OFFENSE | 1st Offense | 2nd Offense | 3rd Offense |
| Academic Integrity |
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|
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| Arson |
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| Assault |
|
|
|
| Attendance Violations The SRO will contact parent/guardian no later than 4 absences. A written warning will be given to the student. |
Missed 6 days/Semester
|
Missed 7 days/Semester
|
Missed 8 + days/Semester
|
| Automobile/Vehicle Misuse |
|
|
|
| Bullying/Cyber Bullying |
|
|
|
| Bus Misconduct |
|
|
|
| Class Disruption | · Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-3 days ISS |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS |
· Parent Contact · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS · Placement in alternative school |
| Disrespect | · Principal/Student Conference · Detention · 1-3 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS |
· Principal/Student Conference · Detention · 1-5 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS |
· Principal/Student Conference · Detention · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS |
| Dress Code Violation | · Parent Contact to supply appropriate apparel · Verbal Warning |
· Parent contact to supply appropriate apparel · 1-3 days ISS |
· Parent contact to supply appropriate apparel · 1-5 days ISS/OSS |
| Dress Cuts to PE | · 4 dress cuts= Principal/Student Conference |
· 5th Dress Cut= 1-3 days ISS · 6th Dress Cut= 3-5 days ISS, 1-3 days OSS |
· 7th + Dress Cut= 5-10 days ISS, 3-5 days OSS |
| Drugs/Alcohol Possession |
· 1-180 Days suspension · Expulsion · Notification to law enforcement · Documentation in student’s permanent record · Drug/Alcohol Counseling |
· 1-180 Days suspension · Expulsion · Notification to law enforcement · Documentation in student’s permanent record · Drug/Alcohol Counseling |
· 1-180 Days suspension · Expulsion · Notification to law Enforcement · Documentation in student’s permanent record · Drug/Alcohol Counseling |
| Drugs/Alcohol Use | · 1-180 Days OSS · Notification to law enforcement · Documentation in student’s permanent record · Drug/Alcohol Counseling |
· Referral to superintendent for Expulsion · Notification to law enforcement · Documentation in student’s permanent record |
· Referral to superintendent for expulsion · Notification to law enforcement · Documentation in student’s permanent record |
| False Alarms | · Restitution · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Expulsion · Notification to law enforcement |
· Restitution · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Expulsion · Notification to law enforcement |
· Restitution · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Expulsion · Notification to law enforcement |
| Fighting- Mutual combat between students either physical or Verbal. |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS/Expulsion · Placement in alternative school · Referral to law enforcement |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS/Expulsion · Placement in alternative school · Referral to law enforcement |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS/Expulsion · Placement in alternative school · Referral to law enforcement |
| General Misconduct | · Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-3 days ISS · 1-3 days OSS |
· Parent contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS · 1-5 days OSS |
· Parent contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS · Placement in alternative |
| Harassment- Sexual (Written, Verbal, Symbolic Language, Physical Contact) |
· Parent Contact · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Law Enforcement notified · Referral to school counselor · Principal/Student Conference · Expulsion |
· Parent Contact · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Law Enforcement notified · Referral to school counselor · Principal/Student Conference · Expulsion |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS · Law Enforcement notified · Referral to school counselor · Principal/Student Conference · Expulsion |
| Insubordination | · Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-3 days ISS |
· Parent contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS · 1-5 days OSS |
· Parent contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1- 10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS · Placement in alternative |
| Phones and Other Personally Owned Technology Devices Violation. (examples: Cell phones, Smartwatches, Tablets, Wireless earbuds or headphones, Gaming devices, Any device that connects to the internet, etc.) |
· Parent Contact · Confiscation · Principal/Student Conference · 1-3 days ISS |
· Parent Contact · Confiscation · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS · Parent Pick-up Required |
· Parent Contact · Confiscation · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS · Parent Pick-up Required |
| Profanity /Threatening Language/ Obscene Gestures/ Racial Comments |
· Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS |
· Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Placement in alternative · Expulsion |
· Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Placement in alternative · Expulsion |
| Public Display of Affection |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-3 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Placement in alternative |
· Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-180 days OSS · Placement in alternative · Expulsion |
| Tardiness- these are kept on a quarterly basis and are cumulative for the quarter |
5th Tardy · Office Referral · Principal/Student Conference · Parent Contact |
7th Tardy · Parent Contact · 3 days ISS |
9th Tardy · Parent Contact · 5 days ISS Additional tardies may result in OSS or placement in alternative |
| Theft or Extortion | · Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS/OSS · Restitution · Law enforcement notified |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-180 days ISS/OSS · Restitution · Law enforcement notified · Placement in alternative |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-180 days ISS/OSS · Restitution · Law enforcement notified · Placement in alternative |
| Tobacco/E Cig Products- Possession/Use |
· Parent Contact · Confiscation of product · Principal/Student Conference · 1-3 days ISS · 1-3 days OSS · Referral to law enforcement |
· Parent Contact · Confiscation of product · Principal/Student Conference · 3-5 days ISS · 3-5 days OSS · Referral to law enforcement |
· Parent Contact · Confiscation of product · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS · Referral to law enforcement · Placement in alternative |
| Truancy Skipping/Leaving School or Class |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-5 days ISS |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · 1-10 days ISS · 1-10 days OSS · Placement in alternative |
| Vandalism | · Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · Reimbursement · Referral to law enforcement · 1-180 days ISS/OSS |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · Reimbursement · Referral to law enforcement · 1-180 days ISS/OSS |
· Parent Contact · Principal/Student Conference · Reimbursement · Referral to law enforcement · 1-180 days ISS/OSS |
| Weapon Possession of any instrument judged to be potentially harmful to others or battery with a weapon(look alike weapons will be treated the same as an actual weapon) |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS/Expulsion · Referral to law enforcement · Confiscation of weapon |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS/Expulsion · Referral to law enforcement · Confiscation of weapon |
· Parent Contact · 1-180 days OSS/Expulsion · Referral to law enforcement · Confiscation of weapon |
RULES FOR IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION