Waltonville Grade School

Handbook

2008-2009

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is for parents and students to better understand the privileges, opportunities, and responsibilities offered to students in our school. It is important to know what to expect from your school and what your school expects from you.

We encourage parents to become involved with the education of their children. Parents can call or visit the school and attend the meetings of the Board of Education.  Parents are required to go over this handbook with their children to help eliminate any misunderstandings. Waltonville Grade School does not discriminate on the basis of color, race, nationality, sex, religion, or religious affiliation. The statements in this handbook are only a summary of Board policies and the handbook may be changed during the year without notice.

MISSION STATEMENT

Waltonville Grade School will prepare its students to live harmoniously, cooperatively, and productively in a global community.  In establishing a supportive and nurturing environment, positive learning opportunities will be created and facilitated to enable each child to reach his/her highest potential.  The Waltonville Unit 1 School District believes that all students should be encouraged and aided to complete their formal education and that no student has the right to hinder or prevent other members of the school district from getting the maximum out of the educational program.  To this end, the district has established the rules, procedures, and practices outlined in this handbook.

DISCLAIMER

This handbook is not intended to create a contractual relationship with the student or his/her parents/guardians.  It is intended to describe the school’s current practices, procedures, rules, and regulations.  It is not possible to identify every action that might result in student consequences.  This policy is a guideline and administrators have the authority to make decisions outside of what is written.

EQUITY

It is the policy of Waltonville CUSD #1 that the educational and extracurricular programs, activities, services and benefits will be provided to students without discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, national origin, economic status, or disability and that no student shall, on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, national origin, economic status, or disability be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege, advantage, or opportunity.  Waltonville CUSD #1 does not discriminate on the basis of actual or potential marital or parental status.  All complaints or inquiries concerning discrimination should be directed to the Superintendent.  Any appeal of a decision may be filed with the Board of Education addressed to the school at 804 West Knob, Waltonville, IL 62894.  An appeal must be filed within fourteen days of receipt of the original decision.

ELEMENTARY PROGRAM K-8

The elementary program provides each student with a foundation in the basic skills areas of English, Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies.  It also offers opportunities for learning and creative expression in art, music, writing, and drama while providing developmental experiences in physical education and health. Teachers develop programs that utilize innovative teaching methods, different grouping techniques, textbooks, technology, and many other instructional materials. The elementary school is a place where children should experience success and develop a good self-concept as well as learn to accept others as equal human beings.  Home and school should cooperate to achieve this goal.  Parents should not feel reluctant to contact school personnel about any problem that effects the child’s adjustment to school.

ENROLLMENT

Registration of students will require:

1.                    Completing an enrollment form for each child.

2.                    Furnishing the school with required health and dental examination information on the pupil.

3.                    Providing proof of residency in the school district.

4.                    Reporting the social security number of the pupil.

5.                    Legal birth certificate. A legal birth certificate is defined as a birth document issued through the county of birth (not a hospital document). Failure to comply requires the school district to file a report with a local law enforcement agency.  

6.                    Dental exams are required of children in grades kindergarten, second, and sixth.  Eye exams are required of children in kindergarten.

**Children entering kindergarten must be 5 years old before September 1^st of the school year and should present a document verifying the child's date of birth.

SCHOOL HOURS

School will begin at 8:10 a.m. and dismiss at approximately 3:10 p.m. Children should not arrive at school before 8:00 a.m. nor remain after the 3:10 dismissal, unless they are attending a school–sponsored activity, or are under direct supervision of a staff member.  Special arrangements should be made in advance with the office if students must arrive before 8:00 a.m. Students are not allowed in the gym without adult supervision.

VISITORS

All visitors should report to the office and sign in when arriving at school.  Parents of students are welcome to visit the school.  We want to keep you informed of your child’s progress and behavior.  Parent-Teacher conferences will keep you informed of your child’s progress and behavior.  Please make an appointment for a conference in advance of your planned visit and report to the office before going to the classrooms.  Student visitors are not allowed.  Children not enrolled in Waltonville Grade School will not be permitted to visit during the school day.

HANDICAP ACCOMMODATIONS

Accommodations are available for parents/guardians and community members with disabilities for events such as concerts, parent/teacher conferences, and board meetings. Anyone needing assistance should contact the school office to make arrangements.

CONDUCT ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

The District expects mutual respect, civility, and orderly conduct among all individuals on school property or at a school event.  Violation of this policy may result in, but not limited to, disbarment from school property or a school event.

PUPIL RESPONSIBILITY

A child attends school so that he/she may develop his/her own individual capacities to the fullest and become the best person that it is possible for him/her to become.  To do this a pupil must:

1. Accept responsibility for his/her own actions.

2. Approach studies with seriousness of purpose and a realization that learning is work.

3. Develop good study habits and make a sincere effort to do his/her best.

4. Be well prepared for classes each day, both physically and mentally.

5. Develop basic attitudes of consideration and thoughtfulness for the rights, welfare, and the happiness of others.

6. Attend school regularly.

7. Dress appropriately and practice habits of personal cleanliness.

8. Understand and comply with rules and regulations of the school.

9. Act in a manner that will reflect credit on him/her, his/her parents, and the school.

10. Respect the authority of teachers and other members of the school staff.

PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

Good conduct in school originates in the home.  It is the obligation of parents, by teaching and example, to develop their child’s attitudes of respect for the school, for the teachers, and for other children.  To help the child develop good behavior habits, parents should:

1.        Instill in the child respect for authority, respect for the rights of adults and of other children, and respect for private and public property.

2.        Teach the child to obey the teacher and other persons in authority.

3.     Support the actions of the teacher or principal in talking with the child about a problem. Confer privately with the teacher or principal if the action taken is not understood or if there is a question regarding its appropriateness.

4.        Confer personally with a teacher or principal when requested.

5.        Insist that your child be prompt and regular in school attendance.

6.        Talk with your child about school activities.  Take an active interest in your child’s progress at school and in his/her report card.

7.     Safeguard the physical and mental health of your child.

8.     Arrange for a time and place for your child to do homework assignments and supervise him/her in completing them.

9.     Encourage your child to participate in wholesome activities in school and in the community.

10.   Make sure your child understands and complies with the rules of the school concerning pupil conduct.

11.     Check into the office when first entering the building.

**If a problem or concern occurs during your child's education the following steps should be taken:

1.            Make an appointment to talk with the school employee(s) involved to attempt to gain an understanding or clarification of the particular situation.

2.            If a satisfactory answer or solution has not been reached with the school employee you should talk with the school principal or superintendent.

3.          If a satisfactory answer or solution has not been reached with the principal and superintendent then the parent should address their concern to the Board of Education.

COMMUNICATIONS

Parents should insist that their child bring home all correspondence and communications from school personnel.  Please check with your child on a daily basis.

ATTENDANCE

The requirements for school attendance are mandated as a part of the state law.  When teachers take attendance, they are monitoring the safe arrival of your children.  The following policy has been established:

1.        Upon arrival at school all students are required to be seated in the gym with their class.  If arriving after 8:10 a.m. students will go directly to the office for a tardy slip.

2.         Parents should notify the school office before 9:00 a.m. if a student is absent and the reason for the absence.  Every absence is considered unexcused until notification is received from parents/guardians.

3.         School personnel will attempt to contact parents if students are absent and the office has not been notified.

4.         A parents/guardians phone call or note will not automatically result in an excused absence.

5.         After 10 absences, excused or unexcused, a doctor’s slip will be required for each absence thereafter for it to be an excused absence.

6.         Students must have a verification slip from a medical office in order for the absence not to count against the ten-day absence policy stated in number 5.

7.         Students who miss 10% or more of the school year will be reported to the truant officer and may be considered for retention.

The following reasons are considered excused absences:

1. Personal illness

            2. Death in family

3. Medical or dental appointment (Please send a copy of Physician’s slip to school after appointment.)

4. Court appointed appearance

Every day is vitally important in the educational development of the student.  Students will receive a ZERO for daily assignments missed during an UNEXCUSED ABSENCE. Tests, projects or other long-term assignments missed during unexcused absences will be due on the day that the student returns.

TARDIES

Students who fail to report to any class on time without a valid reason are considered tardy. Students arriving after 8:10 a.m. are considered tardy and must report to the office before going to class. A student should always report to the office if he/she comes to school after the class day has started. A detention will be assigned after 3 unexcused tardies and every tardy thereafter, per quarter.

The following reasons are considered excused tardies:

1. Personal illness

            2. Death in family

3. Medical or dental appointment (Please send a copy of Physician’s slip to school after appointment.)

4. Court appointed appearance

ANTICIPATED ABSENCES

Anticipated absences are absences that are deemed necessary by the family, but are not excused by the school.  Students and parents will plan these in advance with a written note to the school. Each teacher concerned should be informed of these absences.  Make-up work, including tests and quizzes, should be completed in advance if at all possible.  If the above procedure is not followed, the absence will be considered unexcused and work not completed and turned in on the day they return will receive a zero.

 Family vacations will only be excused for a maximum of five consecutive school days. Consecutive days in excess of five will be unexcused unless prior approval is granted by the Board of Education for special circumstances. 

A student with an excused absence has the privilege of making up the work missed.  The student must go to his/her teacher and ask for the work missed.  Students and parents must realize that lessons taught during these absences will be missed and the learning of this new material will become the responsibility of the students. Students with an unexcused absence may assume that their grades will fall, as they will not be given credit for the work missed. 

STUDENT DRESS

All students are expected to present an appearance that does not disrupt the educational process or interfere with the maintenance of a positive teaching/learning climate. Dress and grooming which are not in accord with reasonable standards of health, safety, modesty and decency, will be considered inappropriate. Parental cooperation will be greatly appreciated in this matter. The following guidelines will be enforced:

1.                    Clothing with provocative, vulgar, violent or inappropriate words statements, or advertising such as drug, alcohol, or cigarettes, should not be worn.

2.                    Piercings, nails, and other dress accessories that pose a safety hazard or that impede the educational process will be removed during physical activity or anytime when they become distracting to others.

3.                    Shoes will be worn in the building.  Shoe-skates are not allowed.

4.                    Hats, bandannas, or other headgear are not allowed in the buildings. 

5.                    Wallet chains and necklaces with big symbols are not allowed.

6.                    Tops and bottoms must meet to cover the body when standing and sitting.  Shorts and skirts must reach mid thigh.

7.                    Fish net tops, tank tops, midriff tops, or any other top that exposes the upper torso will not be permitted unless other appropriate clothing is worn underneath.  Altered garments, such as cut-off sleeved t-shirts, are not allowed. Unusually tight fitting or form fitting, distressed, or revealing clothing is considered inappropriate dress.

8.                    Low riding pants are not allowed.  Pants must be kept at the waist. Proper undergarments should be covered by outer clothing and not be seen (i.e. underwear, bras, boxers, etc.) Pants with holes are considered inappropriate.

9.                    Only natural hair colors are allowed.

10.                 Sunglasses are not allowed.

11.                 5-8 Grade students must wear required PE clothing (tee shirt, shorts, socks, and clean gym shoes) during PE class.

Failure to comply with the above expectations may result in, but not limited to the following: verbal warning, deduction of conduct points, written notice to office, change clothing, confiscation of item, alternative classroom placement, or suspension.

GYM FLOOR

Street shoes and shoes worn outside are not to be worn on the gym floor.  When walking through the gym, please do so along the sidelines and stay off the floor without proper shoes.  Food and soda are not allowed in the gym unless given specific permission by the staff or administration.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Students may not have items that interfere with instruction or the daily educational setting of the school.  These items may include, but are not limited to; toys, basketballs, footballs, etc., trading cards, skateboards, rollerblades, radios, magazines, laser pointers, computer games, computer discs, computer software, CD players, CD’s, Ipods, MP3 players, PSP’s, electronic paging devices. These items are not to be brought into the school building unless teachers or administrators give special permission.  If special permission is given, the school or staff member will not be liable for lost, stolen, or damaged items.

 NO GUM, NO EXCEPTIONS.

Failure to comply with the above expectations may result in, but not limited to the following: verbal warning, deduction of conduct points, written notice to office, confiscation of item, alternative classroom placement, or suspension.

Special Note:  Toys, pets, and playthings for the child’s own amusement or the entertainment of his/her classmates, have no place in the school and should not be brought without the prior approval of the teacher. Toy look-a-like weapons are not allowed at school.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Children are expected to be furnished with certain minimal supplies by the home.  Supplies include:  crayons, pencils, paper, ruler, etc.  An inexpensive pair of gym shoes is needed to be used exclusively in the gym.  From time to time the teacher may request that other materials be brought from home.

CLASSROOM RULES

Each classroom teacher creates his/her own set of classroom rules appropriate for their specific classroom needs.  Students are not to be in any classroom before school or at noon without supervision.  Students are not allowed in any classroom that is not supervised by school personnel.

LOST OR DESTROYED BOOKS

Lost or destroyed books owned by the school are to be paid for by the student who is assigned the book. This includes library books.

CURRICULUM

The district provides instructions in the following areas: Language Arts, Reading, Writing, and other communication skills; Mathematics; Science; Social Studies; Computer Science; Physical Education; conservation of natural resources and water pollution; the effects of excessive use of pesticides; the preservation of wilderness areas, forest management, and the protection of wildlife; the humane care of domestic animals; the history of the United States including the role and contributions of ethnic groups and labor unions; our representative government including the Constitution of the United States and Illinois and the proper use of the American flag; the Holocaust; units of Black History; the history and contributions of American women; career awareness and exploration; vocal and instrumental music, fine arts and art; physical education; health education including human ecology, human growth and development, family life, prevention and control of diseases, public and environmental health; safety education and disaster survival; mental health and illness; personal health habits including alcohol and drug use and abuse, the dangers of tobacco use, nutrition, and dental health; sex education including instructions in prevention, transmission and spread of AIDS; the emotional, psychological, hygienic and social responsibilities of family life including sexual abstinence until marriage; the prevention and abuse of anabolic steroids; and methods of recognizing the danger and avoidance of abduction.

Parents will receive at least five (5) days advanced notice before the school offers any course in recognizing and avoiding sexual abuse.  Students may be exempt from PE because of injury or physical limitation. A doctor’s note stating the condition and length of time expected for recovery must be provided to the school.

DISTRIBUTION OF NON-CURRICULAR MATERIALS

The distribution of any non-curricular materials must be approved through the office.

GRADING SCALE/HONOR ROLL FOR GRADES 4-8

Teachers use the following grading scale:             

A = 94-100                                  C = 77-83

                                                A- = 93                                                   C- = 76

                                                B+ = 92                                                   D+ = 75

                                                B = 86-91                                                D = 71-74

                                                B- = 85                                                    D- = 70

                                                C+ = 84                                                   E = 69 & below

The school recognizes excellent scholarship by means of an honor roll each quarter. This is based on a 4.0 grading scale for the grades earned in the academic areas for grades 4-8. The value assigned to the quarterly grades are: A (4), B (3), C (2), D (1), E (0). The Academic areas used to compute the honor roll includes:  Reading, Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, Art, and Computers are weighted one-fourth.  Students who score 3.0 and above will be named to the honor roll.

An end of the year awards assembly is held each year to recognize students in all areas of achievement. Parents are invited to attend the assembly.

EIGHTH GRADE ALGEBRA

8^th Grade students may be given the opportunity to take High School Algebra as an eighth grader. Placement in the Algebra class will be based on a combination of:  5th - 7^th grade math classroom grades, scores on standardized tests, placement tests and/or teacher recommendations.

EIGHTH GRADE GRADUATION

 A Valedictorian and Salutatorian are chosen from the 8^th grade graduating class by using the following criteria:

1.    Selection shall be based on the grade point averages for grades 5, 6, 7, and the first 3 quarters of 8^th grade.

2         Each quarterly report card shall be used to determine the GPA. The major subjects to be included in the computing of the GPA shall include reading, language arts, math, social studies and science.  Minor subjects (music, art, computers, & health) will be weighted according to the honor roll schedule.

4.        The value assigned to the quarterly grades shall be as follows:  A(4.0), B(3.0), C(2.0), D(1.0), E(0)

5.        In the event of a tie for Valedictorian, all students tied shall share the honor, title awards, and any other duties that go with such honor.

6.        The Valedictorian(s) and Salutatorian(s) shall make a brief speech during the graduation ceremony.

Honor Marshals and Ushers.

1. Exclusive of ties, the top two (2) seventh graders as determined by their GPA shall be chosen as Honor Marshals for the graduation program.  Their duties shall be to lead the graduates into the gymnasium. 
2. The next two (2) seventh graders shall be chosen as ushers for the graduation program.  They shall distribute programs and perform other duties determined by the principal.
3. Ushers & marshals are based on grade point averages for grades 5, 6, and the first 3 quarters of 7^th grade.

PROMOTION/RETENTION

Kindergarten - 3^rd Grade:

For grades kindergarten through 3^rd grade, promotion or retention of students will be determined based upon individual achievement and need. Progress will be communicated to the parent or guardian on an on-going basis by the classroom teacher.

4^th - 8^th Grade:

For grades 4^th through 8^th grade, promotion or retention will be based upon the following criteria:

1.        A student must have a grade point average of 1.0 or higher.

2.        A student must be passing three (3) of the five major subject areas for the year. A student is considered passing when he or she maintains a 1.0 grade point average or higher in 3 of the 5 core subjects. Core subjects include reading, language arts, math science, and social studies.

3.        Under extenuating circumstances a student may be promoted/retained when deemed necessary by the administration and/or the board of education. Social promotions are not allowed as prohibited by law.

4.        Other factors that will be considered are effort, attendance, and student assessments.

* School personnel reserve the right of placement as deemed appropriate for incoming transfer students or home schooled students. Placement is determined by, but not limited to, teacher recommendations and testing results. Consultation and input of parents and/or staff will be considered. (Example-- Special education considerations, IEP's, etc.)

HOMEWORK FOR GRADES 5 - 8

Homework is important for the educational process, as it is a valuable aid in helping students make the most of their learning experiences at school.  It is useful in reinforcing what has been taught in class, preparing students for upcoming lessons, teaching student responsibility, and helping to develop positive study habits.

Students who choose not to do their homework receive certain consequences.  A warning will be given to the students on the first offense.  On the second offense, 3 points are deducted off the final quarter average.  On the third offense, 3 additional points are deducted off the final quarter average (a maximum of 6 points).  Additional missed assignments will be handled by loss of curricular activities, assembly programs, detentions, etc.  Parents will be notified when students fail to complete their homework assignments resulting in points being deducted.  This is done with homework slips.  The slip must be signed by a parent and brought back to school the following school day.  Failure to return a signed homework slip the following day will result in a zero and detention until the slip is returned.  If there is a legitimate reason why a student is not able to finish homework, the parent must send a signed and dated note stating the reason it was not completed.

When a student is absent, they must make up missed work.  One day is allowed for each day missed, up to three days total.  (For example, if Monday and Tuesday are missed, work is expected to be turned in on Friday).  If make-up work is not completed in allowed time frame, the student(s) will receive a zero.  If there are circumstances that require an extended absence, please contact the teacher about a reasonable time frame for returned work.

IT IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO GO TO THE TEACHER AND ASK ABOUT MISSED ASSIGNMENTS.

SPARTAN BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

A. Be prompt and prepared.

                1. Arrive on time.

                2. Arrive with needed materials.

                3. Arrive with assignments completed.

B. Follow Directions Promptly.

C. Respect authority.

                1. Listen to authority.

                2. Accept responsibility for your own behavior.

D. Respect the rights of others.

                1. Use appropriate voice and language.

                2. Listen to speaker.

                3. Respect the opinion of others.

                4. Refrain from harassment.

E. Respect property.

                1. Respect the property of others.

                2. Respect your own property.

                3. Use materials and equipment appropriately.

F. Display a concern for learning.

                1. Remain on task.

                2. Allow others to remain on task.    

G. Display appropriate social skills.

                1. Cope with: disagreement, teasing, failure, etc.

                2. Display courtesy and tact.

                3. Interact with others appropriately.

                4. Use appropriate gestures and language.

H. Display appropriate character.

                1. Display positive character.

                2. Display productive character.

Failure to comply with the above expectations may result in, but not limited to the following; verbal warning, deduction of conduct points, parent notification, written notice to the office.

SPARTAN EXPECTATIONS FOR COMMON AREA BEHAVIOR

( Hallway, Bathroom, and Gym)

A. Walk

B. Walk on the right hand side.

C. Keep your hands to yourself.

D. Be quiet or use an inside voice.

E. Be in common area for a purpose.

F. Keep the common areas clean.

Failure to comply with the above expectations may result in, but not limited to the following; verbal warning, deduction of conduct points, parent notification, written notice to the office.

SPARTAN EXPECTATIONS FOR PLAYGROUND BEHAVIOR

A. Be prompt and prepared.

                1. Be in the proper place on the playground

                2. Line up immediately

B. Respect authority.

                1. Follow directions of those in charge.

                2. Treat supervisors with respect.

C. Respect the rights of others.

                1. Keep hands and feet to yourself.

                2. Respect the rights of others when they are using the equipment.

                3. Play in a safe and orderly manner.

D. Respect property

                1. Treat equipment with respect.

                2. Take responsibility for equipment used.

E. Display appropriate social skills.

                1. Follow the rules of the games.

                2. Resolve conflicts in an appropriate manner.

F. Display appropriate character.

                1. Be honest.

2. Be fair.

                Failure to comply with the above expectations may result in, but not limited to the following, verbal warning, deduction of conduct points, loss of playtime, written notice to the office.  If a student loses playtime, they will lose the remainder of their playtime for the day of the infraction and for the entire playtime of the next school day.

REPORTING TO PARENTS

Report cards are issued following the completion of each nine-week grading period. The letters A, B, C, D, and E are used to report how well your child is doing in various subject areas.  Check marks and satisfactory and unsatisfactory grades are also given. These grades are based on the degree to which your child appears to be realizing his/her potential.

No report card can possibly communicate to the parent everything that the teacher would like to express or everything that the parent would like to know.  One day each year is set aside for parent/teacher conferences.  These conferences are meant to give the teacher the opportunity to discuss the student’s progression and give the parent an opportunity to ask questions about their child’s progress in school.  Other conferences can be arranged at any time throughout the year at the initiative of the parents or teachers.  We urge you to call the office if you would like to talk to the teacher concerning your child so that a conference can be set up. 

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 5 - 8                              

1.        Students will not be permitted to participate in or attend any school activity if they are not in attendance half of the school day. (Unless they have an excused absence approved by the principal)

2.        Excusable absences such as funerals, dentist and doctor appointment will be allowed.

3.                    Students who are absent in the afternoon because of illness, shall not be permitted to participate that same evening.  This applies only to illness and not to other excused absences.  The idea is that if a student is not well enough to attend school, then it would be unwise to permit strenuous activities that same day.

Students in the 5-8 grades are invited to try out for various extra-curricular activities.  Involvement may include, but not limited to, baseball, softball, basketball, track, cheerleading, volleyball, and scholar bowl.  Awards may be earned in all activities with qualifications determined by the coaches.  Eligibility will be checked on a bi-weekly basis. Any student with 2 or more failing grades in Reading, Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, Conduct, Computers, Art, or Music will be suspended for one week. After the first week of ineligibility, the student may resume participating, on a weekly basis, as soon as passing grades are obtained.  A student will be dropped from the team after 3 weeks of ineligibility, per activity.   All required fees and all equipment must be paid for in full before a student will be allowed to participate in any event.

The district does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the provision of educational and extra-curricular programs, activities, services, and benefits (including contracts for sponsors and coaches).

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips within our town and to nearby points of interest are scheduled by teachers throughout the school year.  These trips are designed to supplement different aspects of the curriculum and to introduce students to the resources of the community.  At the start of the school year permission slips will be sent home for field trips.  This signed permission slip must be returned to the office before your child can attend any field trips throughout the year.  Parents will receive advance notice of these trips. Parent chaperones for field trips, will be randomly selected by the teachers. Parent chaperones are responsible for their own expenses on field trips unless other arrangements have been made with the teacher.

SCHOOL PARTIES

There will be two (2) scheduled parties for grades 5-8.  These will be the last day before Winter Break and the last day before Spring Break.  Kindergarten - 4^th Grade teachers will notify the parents of their scheduled parties at the beginning of the year.

DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY

Each teacher and any other school personnel, when students are under his or her charge, is authorized to impose any disciplinary measure, other than suspension, expulsion, corporal punishment or in-school suspension, which is appropriate and in accordance with the policies and rules on student discipline.  Teachers, other certificated educational employees, and other persons providing a related service for or with respect to a student, may use reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for other students school personnel, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property.  Teachers may remove students from a classroom for disruptive behavior.

The administration is authorized to impose the same disciplinary measures as teachers and may suspend students guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct from school (including all school functions) and from riding the school bus, up to 10 consecutive school days, provided the appropriate procedures are followed

STUDENT CONDUCT

Students are entitled to all rights and privileges accorded to them by the Federal and State Constitutions and laws. Students should exercise these rights reasonably and avoid violating the rights of others. Students who violate the rights of others and do not follow school rules and regulations may be disciplined in accordance with Board policies and procedures.  To encourage students to follow the classroom rules, the teachers will reinforce appropriate behavior with various rewards throughout the school year. The rules and expectations in this handbook, will be enforced by all staff members. During the disciplinary process, staff members shall consider the following aspects about the student:

1.        Age, health, maturity of a student

2.        Prior conduct

3.        Attitude and cooperation of student

4.     Seriousness of offense

Disciplinary measures for failure to follow school and classroom rules include, but are not limited to:

1.        Verbal reprimands

2.        Loss of privileges

3.        Conferences with students and/or parents

4.        Temporary removal from class

5.        Assignment of detentions, during or after school

6.        Alternative Classroom Placement

7.        In-School or Out-of-School Suspensions

Disciplinary action will occur when the student conduct occurs on or near school property, while being transported to or from

school events, and at any school-sponsored event. Disciplinary action will occur for any interference with school purposes or the

educational environment.

STUDENT CONDUCT GRADES FOR 5^TH – 8^TH GRADES

Students will receive a conduct grade on their report card.  The conduct grade is based on many daily factors.  It is a composite average of all teachers' scores. Increments of 5 conduct points may be deducted for such misbehavior as, but not limited to:

1.                    Classroom talking without permission

2.                    Hall conduct (shouting, pushing, running, etc.)

3.                    Disrespect for school property

4.                    Disrespect for school staff

5.                    Cafeteria misbehavior

6.                    Chewing gum and eating candy

7.                    Using profane language

8.                    Not following directions

9.                    Not having all needed materials (pencil, paper, textbook, workbook, assignment, etc.)

10.                 Having inappropriate items or toys at school

11.                 Tardy for class

12.                 Being in unsupervised areas without permission

13.                 Teasing, harassing, or bullying another student

14.                 Failure to complete agenda book daily

15.                 Stealing

16.                 Cheating (plagiarism)

17.                 Failing to cooperate with school staff

18.                 Wearing inappropriate clothing

19.          Other behavior considered inappropriate by the staff

The grade card will be used to report the conduct of students to parents in the form of a grade: A, B, C, D, or E.  This grade is not recorded on the student’s permanent record.  It is to be used as a communication device between teachers and parents. This policy will have two (2) dimensions:

1.        If a student receives a conduct grade of an “E”, that student will forfeit any school privileges such as non-academic field trips, sports, assemblies, and extracurricular activities for the remainder of that quarter and the next quarter.

2.        Once a student receives a conduct grade of an “E”, the student will be placed on Disciplinary Probation until improvement in behavior is evident to school personnel.

Students may regain privileges by requesting a disciplinary improvement plan.  This plan will be written through a committee of junior high teachers and the student.  The student must show a change of attitude and conduct.  This plan allows the student who receives a failing conduct grade early in the school year the opportunity to change his/her attitude and earn back their school privileges.

DISRESPECTFULNESS

Any student who is disrespectful to teachers or other school personnel, or uses profanity or abusive language, will be given any of the following: deduction of conduct points, removal from class, office referral for further consequences, detention, alternative classroom placement, in-school suspension, or out-of-school suspension.

 RULES FOR AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION

If your child does not attend the after-school detention on the assigned date, further disciplinary action will be taken.  We encourage you to impress upon your child that there are consequences for their actions.  By not attending the after-school detention, your child may be subject to an out-of-school suspension with loss of credit for assignments.

 RULES:

1. After-school detention will be held from 3:10 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. for students in 5th grade through 8th grade and from 3:10 p.m. until 4:15 p.m. for Kindergarten through 4th grade, on any given school day, provided that parental contact has been made.

2. Absolutely no talking.

3. Students will remain awake and will sit in an upright position.

4. Students will sit properly at the desk with their feet on the floor at all times.

5. Students will not complete homework during detention.  They will be assigned educational work by the administration and/or teacher.

6. Any disruption or misbehavior in detention will result in immediate

removal from detention and additional consequences.

7. No drinks, food, candy, games, radios, etc.

8. Restroom breaks will be determined by the supervisor.

9. Student handbook policies will apply.

10. After-school detention takes precedence over all personal and school related activities.

11. Any student dismissed from an after-school detention, because of behavior, may be subject to an out-of-school suspension.

BULLYING OR AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR

Disciplinary action will be taken against any student who uses any form of bullying or aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to another. Disciplinary action will also be taken against a student who encourages other students to engage in aggressive or bullying behavior.

Aggressive behavior (bullying) is defined as any repeated psychological abuse (verbal or non-verbal) or physical abuse intended to cause harm to another without provocation. Prohibited aggressive behaviors include but are not limited to:  hitting, pushing, slapping, kicking, or other acts of violence, throwing of objects at others, insulting, taunting, teasing, humiliating behavior intended to hurt someone's feelings, spreading rumors or gossip to hurt someone's feelings, threatening, intimidating, isolation, alienation or exclusionary behavior, harassment, unwanted or inappropriate touching, and any behavior that makes a student afraid or uncomfortable.

Specific discipline measures and efforts to identify, intervene and prohibit aggressive behavior will include reporting and documenting of aggressive behavior by all staff. A conference with all involved parties and notification of the aggressive behavior will be reported to parents/guardians. Notification to law enforcement officials will also occur if it is deemed necessary. Additional measures may involve counseling referrals, loss or suspension of privileges, detentions, suspensions and even possible expulsion. 

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS

No person shall use, distribute, purchase, sell or possess any illegal drug, alcohol, narcotic, cannabis, drug paraphernalia, look-alike drugs, tobacco materials, or any other illegal drug on school premises or at any school related activity: i.e., ball game, school trip, dance, etc. If a student appears to be under the influence of an illegal drug or alcohol, law enforcement officials may be called to check for consumption.

No person shall use school property to store or conceal any illegal drug, drug paraphernalia, narcotic, alcohol, or cannabis.  Upon recovery of such contraband, the assigned person to that item, locker, etc. will be accountable for the contraband until proven innocent through means of a criminal investigation or polygraph requested by the school principal or superintendent.

 

Any person in violation of the above acts will face consequences that may include, but not limited to: deduction of conduct points, detention, alternative placement, after-school detention, suspension, or expulsion. The possession, sale or use of alcohol, drugs, or any other controlled substance on the school campus or buses is strictly forbidden.  Violation of this rule may cause immediate suspension of the student involved and will be reported to appropriate law enforcement agencies.

GLASS CONTAINERS

There are to be no glass containers, which includes but is not confined to bottles, on school grounds at anytime during school or a school related activity for safety reasons.

CELLULAR PHONES

Students are not allowed to have cellular phones with them during school hours. They must be left in the office. Violations of this policy will result in the following consequence:

                1^st offense – Detention and confiscation of phone. Student may pick phone up at the end of the day.

                2^nd offense – Detention and confiscation of phone. Parent/guardian must pick phone up.

3^rd offense – Alternative classroom placement and confiscation of phone and loss of privilege to have phone at school for remainder of the school year. Parent/guardian must pick phone up.

COMPUTERS

The use of computers, network computers or computers accessing Internet is a privilege, not a right and inappropriate use may result in cancellation of those privileges.  The district and/or Building Administrator will deem what is inappropriate use and their decision is final. Every student and parent must sign a Computer/Internet policy before using school computers. A copy of the Computer/Internet policy is available upon request in the office.

LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS

Students are not to leave the school during school hours without permission from the office.  The office will always contact the parents before sending a child home during school hours.  Parents should contact the office beforehand, by note or telephone, to arrange the dismissing of students while school is in session.  A sign-out sheet is in the office for the student and authorized person to sign before leaving.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

It is the policy of Waltonville School District to provide for its students and employees an educational and employment environment free of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of communications constituting sexual harassment as defined and otherwise prohibited by state and federal law.  The violation of this policy may result in discipline of employees or students, including discharge, suspension, or expulsion. Employees, students or other individuals who feel aggrieved because of sexual harassment should contact the superintendent or the principal.   Parents will receive at least five (5) days advanced notice before the school offers any course in recognizing and avoiding sexual abuse.

SMOKING

Smoking on school property is a federal offense.  Smoking is strictly forbidden at school. Students are not to carry or use tobacco products of any kind on school property.

WEAPONS

The district will not permit weapons in school, on school property, or any school-sponsored event, except for those school sanctioned activities where the use of weapons in sanctioned competition/sanctioned activities are permitted with prior permission of the Superintendent, so long as the participants are fully licensed by the State of Illinois to carry a firearm.  Weapons shall be interpreted to mean any item that could be used to inflict bodily harm.

A.      The Board of Education shall expel from school for a period of not less than one year any student who is determined to have brought a gun to a school under the jurisdiction of the local board of education.

B.       Upon its discretion the Board of Education may reduce the expulsion to less than one year on a case-by-case basis.

C.       Any student who brings an explosive device or firearm to school shall be referred to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system.

D.      Possession of dangerous weapons other than firearms or look-alike weapons shall be dealt with as follows:

1.        Any such item will be confiscated.

2.        If a state or federal law is violated, law enforcement official shall be

notified.

3.        Parents/guardians shall be notified.

4.        The student shall receive an immediate 10-day suspension pending possible expulsion.

CHEATING

Cheating, including plagiarism is a serious offense and will not be tolerated.  If cheating is discovered, the student’s work may be confiscated.  A failing grade will automatically be recorded and parents may be notified.

DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

Excessive displays of affection may cause a substantial disruption to the educational process.  All excessive displays of affection, including kissing and fondling, are prohibited.  Any student found in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action. 

GROSS ACTS OF MISCONDUCT

The classroom teacher may remove a student from the classroom for disruptive behavior. The student may be placed outside the classroom until the teacher has an opportunity to discuss the disruptive behavior with the student. If a student severely disrupts the classroom, a one-day Alternative Classroom Placement (ACP) may be assigned. There are special areas that require the application of very specific rules. The following are examples of conduct that are never permissible:

1.                    Fighting

2.                    Defiance of school staff

3.                    The use of profanity

4.                    Refusal to prepare assignments or to participate in class.

5.                    Possession of weapons or other dangerous objects.

6.                    Possession or use of any controlled substance.

7.                    Destruction of school property

**Any student who verbally or physically abuses a staff member may be immediately suspended for up to 5 school days and authorities will be notified if they have violated a law.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

The Constitution does not forbid all searches and seizure, only those that are unreasonable. The courts have held that a school official may search a student’s desk/locker.  The lockers are owned and controlled by the school for the use and benefit of the students.  Therefore, school officials may conduct a search without violating the Fourth Amendment in order to control and supervise student conduct and maintain a proper educational environment. Other searches and seizures may be conducted as necessary with probable cause.

STUDENT DUE PROCESS

1.                    The student will receive an explanation of any misconduct or rule violation committed by the student.

2.                    The student has the right to state or present an explanation of the misconduct.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Corporal punishment shall not be used.  Corporal punishment is defined as slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm.  Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES FOR 5^TH – 8^TH (PER QUARTER)

                1^st detention          -     Noontime supervised sitting and studying

                2^nd detention         -     Noontime supervised sitting and studying

3^rd detention         -     Noontime sitting with possible Alternative Classroom Placement (ACP) during the remainder of the day, possible after school ACP, and/or possible parent conference

4^th detention         -        Possibilities may include, but are not limited to, all day ACP, temporary suspension from PE class, after school ACP, Saturday morning 8:00-12:00 ACP, out of school suspension, and/or placement at the alternative school.

The detention supervisor or building administrator will mail home a detention report for each infraction.

SUSPENSION

Out-of-school suspension time is unexcused. A student may serve time in Alternative Classroom Placement or be suspended for the following reasons, but not limited to:

1.                    Habitual tardiness

2.                    Truancy

3.                    Use or possession of prohibitive drugs and alcohol

4.                    Motorized vehicle violations

5.                    Failure to justify unexcused absences

6.                    Violation of detention rules and repeated detentions

7.                    Violation of smoking rules

8.             Gross disobedience or misconduct at school or on the way to or from school and at school-sponsored activities. Gross disobedience shall include the following:

                  a. Behavior, which is injurious to persons or property.

          b. Behavior, which substantially and materially disrupts the education process or discipline in the school.   

c. Repeated minor incidents of misbehavior for which other disciplinary measures have failed to deter.

d. Gross disrespect of teachers, staff, or administration.

EXPULSION

The Board of Education may expel students guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

A grievance shall be considered a claim by a parent or student that an unfair practice has taken place regarding fair and just treatment or interpretation of established policy or rights.

Grievances reaching the levels of the school board for review are limited to out of school suspensions or expulsions. The normal first step procedure to resolve a question in regards to assigned consequence would be contact the teacher or sponsor. Should a parent feel more review is needed after speaking with the teacher, the building principal will complete a review of assigned detentions or in-school suspensions. If a parent feels more review is needed after speaking t