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Jr./Sr. High School Student Handbook

SECTION I:  REQUIRED NOTICES ANDINFORMATION FOR PARENTS

This section of the Petersburg Junior High & High School Student Handbook includes several notices that the district is required to provide to you, as well as other information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, Petersburg ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The following district staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements:

• Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of gender:  Joey Nichols at 667-3585.
• Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability:  Joey Nichols at 667-3585.
• All other concerns regarding discrimination:  See the superintendent Joey Nichols, 667-3585.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

 Working Together

Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school.  Your involvement in this partnership may include:

• Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.
• Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn.
• Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district. 
• Discussing with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child.
• Reviewing the requirements of the graduation programs with your child, if your child is entering ninth grade.
• Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as needed.  [See Academic Counseling on page 17 and Academic Programs on page 12.]
• Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed.  To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at 667-3574 for an appointment.  The teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or before or after school.  [See Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences on page 36.]
• Becoming a school volunteer.  [For further information, see policies at GKG and contact the campus principal]
• Participating in campus parent organizations. 
• Serving as a parent representative on the district-level or campus-level planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement.  For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact Joey Nichols 667-3585 or the campus principal 667-3574.
• Serving on the School Health Advisory Council, assisting the district in ensuring local community values are reflected in health education instruction.  [See policies at BDF, EHAA, FFA, and information in this handbook at School Health Advisory Council on page 30.]
• Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations.  [See policies at BE and BED for more information.]

PARENTAL RIGHTS

 Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights

Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns:

• Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent.
• Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.
• Sexual behavior or attitudes.
• Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
• Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship.
• Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.
• Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation.  [For further information, see policy EF(LEGAL).]

“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities

As a parent, you have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation in:

• Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of funding.
• School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information gathered from your child for the purpose of marketing or selling that information.
• Any nonemergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student.  Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law.  [See policies EF and FFAA.]

Inspecting Surveys

As a parent, you may inspect a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to your child.

Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff

You may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers, including whether a teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field of study of the certification or degree.  You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide services to your child.

Reviewing Instructional Materials

As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child.

Displaying a Student’s Artwork and Projects

The district will seek parental consent before displaying students’ artwork, special projects, photographs taken by students, and the like on the district’s Web site, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication.

Accessing Student Records

You may review your child’s student records.  These records include:

• Attendance records,
• Test scores,
• Grades,
• Disciplinary records,
• Counseling records,
• Psychological records,
• Applications for admission,
• Health and immunization information,
• Other medical records,
• Teacher and counselor evaluations,
• Reports of behavioral patterns, and
• State assessment instruments that have been administered to your child. 

[See Student Records on page 6.]

Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student

As a parent, you may grant or deny any written request from the district to make a video or voice recording of your child.  State law, however, permits the school to make a video or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:

• When it is to be used for school safety;
• When it relates to classroom instruction or a cocurricular or extracurricular activity; or
• When it relates to media coverage of the school.

 Granting Permission to Receive Parenting and Paternity Awareness Instruction

As a parent, if your child is under the age of 14, you must grant permission for your child to receive instruction in the district’s parenting and paternity awareness program or your child will not be allowed to participate in the instruction.  This program, developed by the Office of the Texas Attorney General and the Texas State Board of Education, is incorporated into the district’s health education classes.

Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom

You may remove your child temporarily from the classroom if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs.  The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester.  Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.

 Removing a Student from Human Sexuality Instruction

As a part of the district’s curriculum, students receive instruction related to human sexuality.  The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) is involved with the selection of course materials for such instruction.

State law requires that any instruction related to human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome must:

Present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred choice of behavior in relationship to all sexual activity for unmarried persons of school age;

Devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity than to any other behavior;

Emphasize that abstinence is the only method that is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity;

Direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases; and

If included in the content of the curriculum, teach contraception and condom use in terms of human use reality rates instead of theoretical laboratory rates.

In accordance with state law, below is a summary of the district’s curriculum regarding human sexuality instruction:

Abstinence based instruction.

As a parent, you are entitled to review the curriculum materials.  In addition, you may remove your child from any part of this instruction with no academic, disciplinary, or other penalties.  You may also choose to become more involved with the development of curriculum used for this purpose by becoming a member of the district’s SHAC.  Please see the campus principal for additional information.

Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags

As a parent, you may request that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag.  The request must be in writing.  State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required minute of silence or silent activity that follows.  [See Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence on page 34 and policy EC(LEGAL).]

Excusing a Student from Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence

You may request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the Declaration of Independence. State law requires students in social studies classes in grades 3–12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week unless (1) you provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the district determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity.  [See policy EHBK(LEGAL).]

Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct

A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to your child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) or expulsion.  [See policy FO(LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct.]

Requesting Transfers for Your Child

As a parent, you have a right:

• To request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been determined by the superintendent to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341.  Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus.  See the superintendent for information. [See policy FDB.]  [See Bullying on page 13, and policy FFI(LOCAL).]
• To request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense while at school or on school grounds.  [See policy FDD(LOCAL).]
• To request the transfer of your child to a neighboring district if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether that assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault.  [See policies FDD(LEGAL) and (LOCAL).]

 Requesting Classroom Assignment for Multiple Birth Siblings

As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and campus, you may request that they be placed either in the same classroom or in separate classrooms.  Your written request must be submitted no later than the 14^th day after the enrollment of your children.  [See FDB(LEGAL).]

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

Parents of Students with Disabilities

Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need special education services may request an evaluation for special education at any time.  For more information, see Special Programs on page 41 and contact the principal at 667-3574.

 

Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance to

Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education

If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services.  This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation.  Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are available to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention.  The implementation of Response to Intervention has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of school districts to meet the needs of struggling students. 

At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services.  Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed.  If the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation.  The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date the district receives the written consent.  The district must give a copy of the report to the parent.

If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated.  This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of his or her rights if the parent disagrees with the district.  Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities.

The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is the principal at 667-3574.

If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her attendance zone, the parent or guardian may request that any other student residing in the household be transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus.   [See policy FDB(LOCAL).]

 Accommodations for Children of Military Families

Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district requirements, including:

Immunization requirements.

Grade level, course, or educational program placement.

Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities.

Graduation requirements.

In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district.

Services for Title I Participants

The Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs is the principal and may be contacted at 667-3574.

 Student Records

Both federal and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and eligible students certain rights.  For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.

Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records.  Release is restricted to:

• The parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless the school is given a copy of a court order terminating parental rights or the right to access a student’s education records.  Federal law requires that, as soon as a student becomes 18 or is emancipated by a court, control of the records goes to the student.  The parents may continue to have access to the records, however, if the student is a dependent for tax purposes.
• District school officials who have what federal law refers to as a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records.  School officials would include trustees and employees, such as the superintendent, administrators, and principals; teachers, counselors, diagnosticians, and support staff; a person or company with whom the district has contracted or allowed to provide a particular service or function (such as an attorney, consultant, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or volunteer); a parent or student serving on a school committee; or a parent or student assisting a school official in the performance of his or her duties.  “Legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records includes working with the student; considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or an individualized education program for a student with disabilities; compiling statistical data; reviewing an educational record to fulfill the official’s professional responsibility; or investigating or evaluating programs. 
• Various governmental agencies.
• Individuals granted access in response to a subpoena or court order.
• A school or institution of postsecondary education to which a student seeks or intends to enroll or in which he or she is already enrolled.

Release to any other person or agency—such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application—will occur only with parental or student permission as appropriate.

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school.  The superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated.

Records may be inspected by a parent or eligible student during regular school hours.  The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records.

A parent or eligible student who provides a written request and pays copying costs of ten cents per page may obtain copies.  If circumstances prevent inspection during regular school and the student qualifies for free or reduced-price meals, the district will provide a copy of the records requested or make other arrangements for the parent or student to view these records.  The address of the superintendent’s office is 1411 West 4^th, Box 160, Petersburg, TX  79250.

The address of the principal’s office is:  1411 West 4^th, Box 160, Petersburg, TX  79250.

A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights.  A request to correct a student’s record should be submitted to the principal.  The request must clearly identify the part of the record that should be corrected and include an explanation of how the information in the record is inaccurate.  If the district denies the request to amend the records, the parent or eligible student has the right to request a hearing.  If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the parent or eligible student has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record.  Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process found in policy FNG(LOCAL).  A grade issued by a classroom teacher can be changed only if, as determined by the board of trustees, the grade is arbitrary, erroneous, or inconsistent with the district’s grading policy.  [See FINALITY OF GRADES at FNG(LEGAL), Report Card/Progress Reports and Conferences on page 35 and Student or Parent Complaints and Concerns on page 14 for an overview of the process.]

The district’s policy regarding student records found at FL(LOCAL) is available from the principal’s or superintendent’s office or at www.petersburgisd.net.

The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies of student records do not extend to all records.  Materials that are not considered educational records—such as a teacher’s personal notes about a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher—do not have to be made available to the parents or student.

Please note:

Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the district is not in compliance with federal law regarding student records.  The complaint may be mailed to:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U. S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC  20202-5901

 Directory Information

The law permits the district to designate certain personal information about students as “directory information.”  This “directory information” will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it. 

However, release of a student’s directory information may be prevented by the parent or an eligible student.  This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days of your child’s first day of instruction for this school year.  [See the “Notice Regarding Directory Information and Parent’s Response Regarding Release of Student Information” included in the forms packet.]

Directory Information for School-Sponsored Purposes

The district often needs to use student information for school-sponsored purposes.  For the following school-sponsored purposes—all District publications and announcements—directory information shall include student name; address; telephone listing; photograph; and date of birth; honors received; dates of attendance; grade level; enrollment status; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; and height and weight, if member of an athletic team.  This information will not be used for other purposes without the consent of the parent or eligible student, except as described above at Directory Information. 

Unless you object to the use of your child’s information for these limited purposes, the school will not need to ask your permission each time the district wishes to use this information for the school-sponsored purposes listed.

Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education

The district is required by federal law to comply with a request by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education for students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless parents have advised the district not to release their child’s information without prior written consent.  A form has been attached for you to complete if you do not want the district to provide this information to military recruiters or institutions of higher education.

Bacterial Meningitis

State law specifically requires the district to provide the following information:

• What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord.  It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria.  Viral meningitis is most common and the least serious.  Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications.  It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death.

• What are the symptoms?

Someone with meningitis will become very ill.  The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours.  Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms.

Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion.  In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots.  These can occur anywhere on the body.

The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results.

• How serious is bacterial meningitis? 

If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery.  In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.

• How is bacterial meningitis spread?

Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been.  The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body.  They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).

The germ does not cause meningitis in most people.  Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months.  The bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune system and cause meningitis or another serious illness.

• How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?

Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes.  Limit the number of persons you kiss.

While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used only in special circumstances.  These include when there is a disease outbreak in a community or for people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting the disease.  Also, a vaccine is recommended by some groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls.  The vaccine is safe and effective (85–90 percent).  It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days.  Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.

• What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis? 

You should seek prompt medical attention.

• Where can you get more information?

Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases.  You may also call your local health department or Regional Department of State Health Services office to ask about a meningococcal vaccine.  Additional information may also be found at the Web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State Health Services, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/.

SECTION II:  INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS ANDPARENTS

Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information on academics, school activities, and school operations and requirements.  Take a moment with your child to become familiar with the various issues addressed in this section.  It is conveniently organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick-reference when you or your child has a question about a specific school-related issue.  Should you be unable to find the information on a particular topic, please contact the campus principal at 667-3574.

ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for a student to make the most of his or her education—to benefit from teacher-led and school activities, to build each day’s learning on the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual.  Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences.  Two state laws, one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit, are of special interest to students and parents.  They are discussed below:

Compulsory Attendance

State law requires that a student between the ages of six and 18 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt.

A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 18^th birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year and is subject to compulsory attendance laws, if the student is under 21 years old.  In addition, if a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester the district may revoke the student’s enrollment.  The student’s presence on school property thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing.  [See FEA]

Students enrolled in prekindergarten or kindergarten are required to attend school.

State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program when kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to such a program.  Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading instrument.

A student in grades 3–8 will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or her grade level and applicable subject area.

 Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance

State law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for several types of absences.  These include the following activities and events:

Religious holy days;

Required court appearances;

Activities related to obtaining United States citizenship;

Service as an election clerk; and

Documented health-care appointments, including absences for recognized services for students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.

In addition, a junior or senior student’s absence of up to two days related to visiting a college or university may be considered an exemption, provided the student receives approval from the campus principal, follows the campus procedures to verify such a visit, and makes up any work missed.

 Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance

School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law.  A student absent without permission from school; from any class; from required special programs, such as additional special instruction, termed “accelerated instruction” by the state; or from required tutorials will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to disciplinary action.

A court of law may also impose penalties against both the student and his or her parents if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school.  A complaint against the parent may be filed in court if the student:

Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or

Is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period.

If the student is over age 18, the student’s parents shall not be subject to penalties as a result of their child’s violation of state compulsory attendance law. [See FEA(LEGAL)]

Attendance for Credit

To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered.  A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may receive credit for the class if he or she completes a plan, approved by the principal, that allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class.  If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student receives credit for the class.

If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed the plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate.  [See policies at FEC]

In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the attendance committee will use the following guidelines:

• All absences will be considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days.  If makeup work is completed, absences for religious holy days and documented health-care appointments will be considered days of attendance for this purpose.  [See policies at FEB.]
• A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or she has enrolled in the district.  For a student transferring into the district after school begins, including a migrant student, only those absences after enrollment will be considered.
• In reaching a decision about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that it is in the best interest of the student.
• The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of documented reasons for the student’s absences.
• The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over which the student or the student’s parent could exercise any control. 
• The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in the course or subject.
• The student or parent will be given an opportunity to present any information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit.

The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to the board of trustees by filing a written request with the superintendent in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL).

The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year.

Parent’s Note After An Absence

When a student must be absent from school, the student—upon returning to school—must bring a note, signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence.  A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older.

 Doctor’s Note After an Absence for Illness

Upon return to school, a student absent for more than three consecutive days because of a personal illness must bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence from school. [See FEC(LOCAL).]

Driver License Attendance Verification

To obtain a driver license, a student between the ages of 16 and 18 must provide to the Texas Department of Public Safety a form obtained from the school verifying that the student has met the 90 percent attendance requirement for the semester preceding the date of application.  The student can obtain this form at the campus principal’s office.

 ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The school counselor provides students and parents information regarding academic programs to prepare for higher education and career choices.  [See Academic Counseling on page 17 and policies at EIF]

AWARDS ANDHONORS

 Elective Honors

To be elected the following honors, students must be of high character, must have attended Petersburg ISD for one year, and must be passing all subjects.

Elected by Student Body

• Best School Spirit (boy and girl)
• Homecoming Queen and Attendants (Nominees selected by the high school football team)
• Friendliest Boy and Girl
• Wittiest Boy and Girl

 Elected by Faculty

• Mr. and Miss PHS (seniors)
• Best Citizen (boy and girl)
• Best All-Around (boy and girl)
• Most Courteous (boy and girl)
• Most Dependable (boy and girl)
• Most Likely to Succeed (senior boy and girl)

 Elected by Organizations

• John Philip Sousa Band Award
• FFA Awards
• FHA Awards
• Moving Up Awards Assembly--On May 21, 2010, the awards will be presented for the following:  Perfect attendance, Yearly honor roll, Presidential Academic Fitness Awards to 8th and 12th grade qualifiers, UIL scholar awards, various military Scholar/Athlete Awards, UIL Literary recognition, One Act Play recognition, and other subject area awards and scholarships.

Honor Roll

At the end of each grading period, the honor rolls will be announced.  To be on the “Straight A” honor roll, a student must have all A’s in each subject.  To be on the “A” honor roll, a student must have an average of at least 90 with no C’s.  To be on the A-B Honor Roll, a student must have an average of at least 80 with no C’s.

 

  BULLYING

Bullying occurs when a student or group of students directs written or verbal expressions or physical conduct against another student and the behavior results in harm to the student or the student’s property, places a student in fear of harm to himself or his property, or is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment. 

The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit bullying and to respond to reports of bullying.  [See FFI(LOCAL).]

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

Petersburg ISD offers career and technology programs in family and consumer sciences, agricultural science, and business and computer technology.  Admission to these programs is based on interest and aptitude, age appropriateness, academic achievement, state and local policy, class space available, and any course pre-requisites. 

It is the policy of Petersburg ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational (career and technology) programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

It is the policy of Petersburg ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in its employment practices as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

Petersburg ISD will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.

For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator, Joey Nichols at 1411 West 4^th Street, Petersburg, Texas 79250 or 806-667-3585, and/or the Section 504 Coordinator, Joey Nichols at 1411 West 4^th Street, Petersburg, Texas 79250 or 806-667-3585.

 CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

The district has established a plan for addressing child sexual abuse, which may be accessed at www.petersburgisd.net.  As a parent, it is important for you to be aware of warning signs that could indicate a child may have been or is being sexually abused.  Sexual abuse in the Texas Family Code is defined as any sexual conduct harmful to a child’s mental, emotional, or physical welfare as well as a failure to make a reasonable effort to prevent sexual conduct with a child.  Anyone who suspects that a child has been or may be abused or neglected has a legal responsibility, under state law, for reporting the suspected abuse or neglect to law enforcement or to Child Protective Services (CPS).

Possible physical warning signs of sexual abuse could be difficulty sitting or walking, pain in the genital areas, and claims of stomachaches and headaches.  Behavioral indicators may include verbal references or pretend games of sexual activity between adults and children, fear of being alone with adults of a particular gender, or sexually suggestive behavior.  Emotional warning signs to be aware of include withdrawal, depression, sleeping and eating disorders, and problems in school.

A child who has experienced sexual abuse should be encouraged to seek out a trusted adult.  Be aware as a parent or other trusted adult that disclosures of sexual abuse may be more indirect than disclosures of physical abuse, and it is important to be calm and comforting if your child, or another child, confides in you.  Reassure the child that he or she did the right thing by telling you.

As a parent, if your child is a victim of sexual abuse, the campus counselor or principal will provide information regarding counseling options for you and your child available in your area.  The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS) also manages early intervention counseling programs.  To find out what services may be available in your county, see http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Prevention_and_Early_Intervention/Programs_Available_In_
Your_County/default.asp. 

The following Web sites might help you become more aware of child sexual abuse:

http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index.aspx?id=2820

http://sapn.nonprofitoffice.com/

http://www.taasa.org/member/materials2.php

http://www.oag.state.tx.us/AG_Publications/txts/childabuse1.shtml

http://www.oag.state.tx.us/AG_Publications/txts/childabuse2.shtml

Reports may be made to:

The Child Protective Services (CPS) division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (1 800-252-5400 or on the Web at http://www.txabusehotline.org).

CLASS RANK / TOP TEN PERCENT / HIGHEST RANKING STUDENT

In determining the honor students for the graduating class, the work considered shall be that of the four years in high school.  The senior year must have been taken in Petersburg High School.  The student must have taken at least five subjects in each year, if possible.  Semester grades in all subjects except P.E., band, athletics, and student aid participation shall be counted.  The second semester of the senior year shall be determined by the first two six-week reporting periods of that semester.  Students who take correspondence courses to meet graduation requirements shall not be eligible to receive graduation honors [EIC(LOCAL)].  All seniors who have an overall average of 90 for their entire high school career up to and including the fifth six weeks of their senior year will be considered as honor graduates.  Honor graduates must be enrolled in Petersburg High School from September through May of the senior year.

The top-ranking honor student will be named valedictorian, and the second ranking student will be named salutatorian.

Honor graduates will be recognized and honor scholarships will be given at an awards assembly.  The top two ranked graduates will be given the opportunity of speaking at the graduation exercises, if they desire.  All speeches must be submitted to the principal in written form prior to the day of the Commencement.

For two school years following his or her graduation, a district student who graduates in the top ten percent of his or her class is eligible for automatic admission into four-year public universities and colleges in Texas if the student:

• Completes the Recommended or Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program; or
• Satisfies the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks or earns at least a 1500 out of 2400 on the SAT.

Students and parents should contact the Sydney Nichols for further information about the application process and deadlines.  [For further information, see policies at EIC.]

CLASS SCHEDULES

Student’s must make all schedule changes by the end of the fifth class day.  Any change to a student’s schedule, whether temporary or permanent, must be approved by the principal.  Only emergency changes requested by the teacher will be made after the fifth class day.  All students are expected to take a full schedule of classes.  Senior students may seek placement as a student aid for one class period, if they desire.

COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES

Petersburg ISD offers dual credit courses in Mathematics, English, Government, Economics and American History through the Virtual College Program in cooperation with South Plains College and Western Texas College.  Students may earn up to 6 hours college credit each semester through participation in this program.  Tuition, fees, and the cost of books and class materials are the responsibility of the student.  Students must meet eligibility requirements and enrollment standards for dual credit participation.  Grades will be recorded as pass/fail only and will not count towards the student’s GPA. More information can be obtained by contacting Sydney Nichols at 806-667-3574.

COLLEGE VISITS

Seniors may be allowed to take one college day that will be counted as an excused absent but will not count against exemptions.  The senior may take this day if:

   a.  The trip is necessary for the admission and cannot be scheduled on a non-school day.

   b.  The student clears the trip with the counselor and principal at least five (5) days prior to the proposed visit and makes up all work possible prior to the day of the visit.

 COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference with the teacher or principal.  For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the district has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG(LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the principal’s or superintendent’s office or at www.petersburgisd.net.

In general, the student or parent should submit a written complaint and request a conference with the campus principal.  If the concern is not resolved, a request for a conference should be sent to the superintendent.  If still unresolved, the district provides for the complaint to be presented to the board of trustees.

 COMPUTER RESOURCES

To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, the district has made an investment in computer technology for instructional purposes.  Use of these computer resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only.  Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of these resources; violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.

Students and their parents should be aware that an e-mail using district computer is not private and will be monitored by district staff.  [For additional information, see policies at CQ.]

CONDUCT

Applicability of School Rules

As required by law, the board has adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defines standards of acceptable behavior—both on and off campus—and consequences for violation of these standards.  The district has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.  Students and parents should be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules.

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment—spanking or paddling the student—may be used as a discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and policy FO(LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual.

Disruptions

As identified by law, disruptions include the following:

• Interference with the movement of people at an exit, entrance, or hallway of a district building without authorization from an administrator.
• Interference with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building.
• Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly.
• Use of force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during an assembly.
• Interference with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to district property.
• Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving district property without authorization from an administrator.
• Disruption of classes or other school activities while on district property or on public property that is within 500 feet of district property.  Class disruption includes making loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to prevent a student from attending, a required class or activity; and entering a classroom without authorization and disrupting the activity with loud or profane language or any misconduct.
• Interference with the transportation of students in vehicles owned or operated by the district.

Telecommunications Devices, Including Mobile Telephones

For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess telecommunications devices, including mobile telephones; however, these devices must remain turned off during the instructional day, including during all testing.  The use of mobile telephones in locker rooms or restroom areas at any time while at school or at a school-related or school-sponsored event is strictly prohibited.

A student who uses a telecommunications device during the school day shall have the device confiscated.  The parent may pick up the confiscated telecommunications device from the principal’s office for a fee of $15.

Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved by the student or student’s parents will be disposed of after the notice required by law.  [See policy FNCE.]

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.  The district will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunications devices.

Other Electronic Devices

Students are not permitted to possess such items as radios, CD players, MP3 players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, games, or other electronic devices at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal.  Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s office.  The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items.

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.  The district will not be responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device.

 Inappropriate Use of Technology

Students are prohibited from sending or posting electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal.  This prohibition applies to conduct off school property if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment.  Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or photographs will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct and may, in certain circumstances, be reported to law enforcement.

Social Events

School rules apply to all school social events.  Guests attending these events are expected to observe the same rules as students, and a student inviting a guest will share responsibility for the conduct of his or her guest.

A student attending a social event will be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the event; anyone leaving before the official end of the event will not be readmitted.

CONTAGIOUS DISEASES / CONDITIONS

To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious.  If a parent suspects that his or her child has a contagious disease, the parent should contact the school nurse or principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.

The school nurse or the principal’s office can provide information from the Department of State Health Services regarding these diseases.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

The district permits high school students to take correspondence courses—by mail or via the Internet—for credit toward high school graduation.  [For further information, see policies at EEJC.]

 COUNSELING

 Academic Counseling

Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn more about course offerings, graduation requirements, and early graduation procedures.  Each spring, students in grades 7 through 12 will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next school year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.

To plan for the future, each student should work closely with the counselor in order to enroll in the high school courses that best prepare him or her for attendance at a college, university, or training school, or for pursuit of some other type of advanced education.  The counselor can also provide information about entrance exams and application deadlines, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships. 

Personal Counseling

The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse.  The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns.  A student who wishes to meet with the counselor for personal counseling must schedule an appointment through the high school office.

Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment

The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parent’s written consent.  Parental consent is not necessary when a psychological examination, test, or treatment is required by state or federal law for special education purposes or by the Texas Education Agency for child abuse investigations and reports.  [For more information, refer to FFE(LEGAL) and FFG(EXHIBIT).]

CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Taken the Course

A student who has previously taken a course or subject—but did not receive credit for it—may, in circumstances determined by the teacher, counselor, principal, or attendance committee, be permitted to earn credit by passing an exam on the essential knowledge and skills defined for that course or subject.  Prior instruction may include, for example, incomplete coursework due to a failed course or excessive absences, home schooling, correspondence courses, or independent study supervised by a teacher. 

The counselor or principal would determine if the student could take an exam for this purpose.  If approval is granted, the student must score at least 70 on the exam to receive credit for the course or subject.

The attendance review committee may also offer a student with excessive absences an opportunity to earn credit for a course by passing an exam. 

A student may not use this exam, however, to regain eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities.  [For further information, see the counselor and policies EEJA.]

CREDIT BY EXAM—If a Student Has Not Taken the Course

A student will be permitted to take an exam to earn credit for an academic course for which the student has had no prior instruction. 

A student will earn credit with a passing score of at least 90 on the exam.

If a student plans to take an exam, the student (or parent) must register with the principal no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date.  The district will honor a request by a parent to administer a test on a date other than the published dates.  If the district agrees to administer a test other than the one chosen by the district, the parent must purchase a test from a university approved by the State Board of Education.  [For further information, see EEJB(LOCAL).]

  Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation

The district believes that all students learn best in an environment free from dating violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and that their welfare is best served when they are free from this prohibited conduct while attending school.  Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop.  District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect.

The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, color, religion, , gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law.  [See policy FFH] 

 Dating Violence

Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past dating relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control the other person in the relationship.   This type of conduct is considered harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance.

Examples of dating violence against a student may include, but are not limited to, physical or sexual assaults, name-calling, put-downs, threats to hurt the student or the student’s family members or members of the student’s household, destroying property belonging to the student, threats to commit suicide or homicide if the student ends the relationship, attempts to isolate the student from friends and family, stalking, or encouraging others to engage in these behaviors.

 Discrimination

Discrimination is defined as any conduct directed at a student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law, that it negatively affects the student.

 Harassment

Harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance.  A copy of the district’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the superintendent’s office or at www.petersburgisd.net.

Examples of harassment may include, but are not limited to, offensive or derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; threatening or intimidating conduct; offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. 

 Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature.  However, romantic and other inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and district employees are prohibited, even if consensual.

Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include, but not be limited to, touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact. 

 Retaliation

Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of discrimination or harassment, including dating violence, is prohibited.  Retaliation against a person who is participating in an investigation of alleged discrimination or harassment is also prohibited.  A person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a district investigation, however, may be subject to appropriate discipline.

Retaliation against a student might occur when a student receives threats from another student or an employee or when an employee imposes an unjustified punishment or unwarranted grade reduction.  Retaliation does not include petty slights and annoyances from other students or negative comments from a teacher that are justified by a student’s poor academic performance in the classroom.

 Reporting Procedures

Any student who believes that he or she has experienced dating violence, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other district employee.  The report may be made by the student’s parent. See policy FFH(LOCAL) for the appropriate districts officials to whom to make a report.

 Investigation of Report

To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law.  Allegations of prohibited conduct, which includes dating violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, will be promptly investigated.  The district will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited conduct by an adult associated with the district.

In the event prohibited conduct involves another student, the district will notify the parents of the student alleged to have experienced the prohibited conduct when the allegations, if proven, would constitute a violation as defined by policy.

If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited conduct occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the conduct.  The district may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint was not unlawful. 

A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL).

 DISCRIMINATION

[See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page 18.]

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials

Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with the prior approval of the principal, sponsor, or teacher.  Such items may include school posters, brochures, flyers, etc.

The school newspaper and the yearbook are available to students.

All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.  [See Directory Information for School-Sponsored Purposes on page 8.]

Nonschool Materials...from students

Students must obtain prior approval from the principal before posting, circulating, or distributing written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school. To be considered, any nonschool material must include the name of the sponsoring person or organization.  The decision regarding approval will be made in two school days.

The principal has designated a bulletin board outside the principal’s office as the location for approved nonschool materials to be placed for voluntary viewing by students.  [See policies at FNAA.]

A student may appeal a principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL).  Any student who posts nonschool material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.  Materials displayed without the principal’s approval will be removed.

Nonschool Materials...from others

Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the district or by a district-affiliated school-support organization will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any district premises by any district employee or by persons or groups not associated with the district, except as permitted by policies at GKDA.  To be considered for distribution, any nonschool material must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, include the name of the sponsoring person or organization, and be submitted to the principal for prior review.  The principal will approve or reject the materials within two school days of the time the materials are received.  The requestor may appeal a rejection in accordance with the appropriate district complaint policy.  [See policies at DGBA, FNG, or GF.]

Prior review will not be required for:

• Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a school-sponsored meeting intended for adults and held after school hours.
• Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a community group meeting held after school hours in accordance with policy GKD(LOCAL) or a noncurriculum-related student group meeting held in accordance with FNAB(LOCAL).
• Distribution for electioneering purposes during the time a school facility is being used as a polling place, in accordance with state law.

All nonschool materials distributed under these circumstances must be removed from district property immediately following the event at which the materials are distributed. 

 DRESS AND GROOMING

The district’s dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, instill discipline, prevent disruption, minimize safety hazards, and teach respect for authority.  All attire must promote a positive school attitude.  Students shall be dressed and groomed in a manner that is clean and neat and that will not be a health or safety hazard to themselves or others.  The District prohibits any clothing or grooming that in the principal’s judgment may reasonably be expected to cause disruption of or interfere with normal school operations.  Student dress that is extreme, conspicuous, or designed to create special attention shall be discouraged.  Students and parents may determine a student’s personal dress and grooming standards, provided that they comply with the guidelines stated in this policy.

Pants

• Pants must be worn at the top of the hip to prevent sagging and the exposure of undergarments.  Zip ties may be used to insure pants without belts are worn appropriately.
• Oversized pants are not permitted.

Shirts

• The shirt/top will cover both the front and back midriff at all times whether standing, sitting, stretching or bending.
• The shirt/top will not be cut lower in the front or back than the equivalent of the first button below the collar button of a dress shirt.
• Backless shirts or halter tops or dresses are prohibited.
• All shirts/tops must have at least 2-inch wide straps.
• No see-through or sheer shirts or blouses may be worn unless worn over a garment that meets dress guidelines
• No off-the-shoulder shirts/tops.
• Further Guidelines for Male Students’ Shirts (Developed by the Student Council)

• Shirts without a collar may be worn out unless the length surpasses thumb length.
• All collared shirts must be tucked in, as well as any shirts with an uneven hem..
• When representing the school on any extra-curricular or co-curricular trip, all shirts must be tucked in at all times and no caps are allowed.
• Sleeveless shirts are not permitted.

Shorts, Skorts, Skirts

• Shorts, skorts, skirts, and dresses will be no more than 2 ¾ inches from the knee (same width of a dollar bill).
• Slits in dresses or skirts will not be more than 2 inches from the top of the knee.
• Shorts must be hemmed.
• No bicycle shorts or leggings unless the skirt or shorts worn over them meet guidelines for length.

Shoes

• Shoes must be worn at all times.
• No house shoes.

Hair

• Hair design must be consistent with community and administration standards.
• Hair must be of a natural human hair color.
• Hair must be out of the eyes.
• No shaven designs or notches in the scalp (hair or eyebrows) will be permitted.
• An outlandish style of hair which interrupts the learning environment will not be tolerated.
• Male students’ hair must not exceed the bottom of the ear on the sides, the bottom of the collar in the back, or below the eyebrows in the front when combed straight.  Male students will not be permitted to wear pony tails, braids, or rattails.
• No beards shall be worn.  Mustaches are permitted, but may not be ornamental in style and may not come below the corners of the mouth.  Sideburns must be trimmed evenly and may not exceed the bottom of the ear.

Headgear

• No sweatbands, bandannas, scarves, toboggans, kerchiefs, wraps, turbans, nets, etc. will be permitted.
• Hats or caps may be worn outside the building if worn appropriately (bill or front straight and forward).

These items will not be worn in the building:

• Nothing will be worn on the head with the exception of appropriate hair accessories.

Decorative Ornaments/Jewelry

• No studs, earrings, or body piercing jewelry of any type may be worn on male students.
• No chains or jewelry that has the potential to be used as a weapon (examples:  heavy neck chains, wallet chains, chain belts, etc).
• No body piercing or ornamental objects other than ear jewelry worn by female students.

Miscellaneous

• Sunglasses are not to be worn inside the building without a doctor prescription and approval by the principal.  Prescription must state that the sunglasses are required to be worn indoors.
• Clothing items must be free of pictures, emblems, and/or writings that are suggestive, lewd, obscene, vulgar, or of a racial nature (examples:  Playboy bunnies, Hooters, racial comments).
• Clothing items must not advertise or depict tobacco products, alcoholic beverages or drugs.
• No gang-related clothing/style/dress/ornaments.
• Clothing may not reference any items prohibited under policy FNCF(L).

The following will not be permitted:

• Sleepwear or house shoes.
• Outlandish clothing that will interfere with, or detract from a positive learning environment or school activity.
• Muscle shirts/tank tops.
• Black lipstick or nail polish.

If the principal determines that a student’s grooming violates the dress code, the student shall be given an opportunity to correct the problem at school.  If not corrected, the student shall be assigned to in-school suspension for the remainder of the day or until the problem is corrected.  A parent or guardian may bring an acceptable change of clothing to the school.  Repeated offenses may result in more serious disciplinary action.  Appropriate discipline procedures shall be followed in all cases.

The principal, in cooperation with the sponsor, coach, or other person in charge of an extra-curricular activity, may regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate in the activity.  Students who violate these standards may be removed or excluded from the activity for a period determined by the principal or sponsor and may be subject to other disciplinary action.

 DRUG TESTING PROGRAM     

The District requires drug testing of any student in grades 7–12 who chooses to participate in school-sponsored extracurricular activities.

Purposes         

The purposes of the drug-testing program are to prevent injury, illness, and harm resulting from the use of illegal and performance enhancing drugs or alcohol; help enforce a drug-free educational environment; deter student use of illegal and performance enhancing drugs or alcohol; and educate students regarding the harm caused by the use of illegal and performance-enhancing drugs or alcohol.

Covered Activities

Participation in school-sponsored extracurricular activities is a privilege. School-sponsored extracurricular activities for which testing is required include interscholastic athletics, cheerleading, drill team, academic clubs, special interest clubs, musical performances, dramatic productions, student government, fine arts organizations, industrial technology, agricultural organizations, and any other activity or group that participates in contests, competitions, or demonstrations on behalf of or as a representative of the District. Extracurricular activities shall also include enrolling in a District-offered driver training program or receipt of a District-issued parking permit for the privilege of parking a motor vehicle in designated areas on school property.  

A student participating in these activities shall be tested for the presence of illegal drugs and alcohol at the beginning of each school year and prior to joining an extracurricular program at anytime during the school year.

In addition, students shall be randomly tested throughout the school year.  [See FNF(LOCAL).]

EXEMPTIONS FROM SEMESTER TESTS

Junior and senior students will be eligible to be exempt from all semester exams.  Sophomore and freshman students may exempt three semester exams under the following guidelines: (1) A grade of 90 or above with 3 or less absences (2) 85 or above with 2 or less absences (3) 80 or above with 1 or less absences.

For Exemption purposes only: If a student is late for more than 5 minutes or checks out of class before the last five minutes of class the student will be countedabsent for exemption purposes.   Athletic injuries do not count against exemptions until the doctor has cleared the student to begin participating in the activity.  Also, three tardies will count as one absence for exemption purposes.  Any student involved in fighting during the semester will loose all exemption privileges.  Any student caught cheating during the semester will lose all exemptions.  Any student failing a class during any six weeks will not be eligible for exemptions in that class. Any Student being placed in ISS or DAEP during the semester will lose exemptions.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, ANDORGANIZATIONS

Participation in school sponsored activities is an excellent way for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and build strong friendships with other students; participation, however, is a privilege, not a right.

Eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law and the rules of the University Interscholastic League (UIL)—a statewide association overseeing interdistrict competition.  The following requirements apply to all extracurricular activities:

• A student who receives at the end of a grading period a grade below 70 in any academic class—other than an advanced placement or international baccalaureate course; or an honors or dual credit course in English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, or a foreign language—may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks.
• A student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the individualized education program (IEP) may not participate for at least three school weeks.
• An ineligible student may practice or rehearse. 
• A student is allowed in a school year up to twelve absences not related to post-district competition, a maximum of five absences for post-district competition prior to state, and a maximum of two absences for state competition.  All extracurricular activities and public performances, whether UIL activities or other activities approved by the board, are subject to these restrictions. 
• An absence for participation in an activity that has not been approved will receive an unexcused absence.

Please note:  Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, and drill and athletic teams may establish standards of behavior—including consequences for misbehavior—that are stricter than those for students in general.  If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization’s standards of behavior.  For further information, see policies at FM and FO.

 Athletics

Students who meet scholastic eligibility requirements have the privilege of participating in the athletic programs of Petersburg High School.  Students are not permitted to practice or participate in athletics until their parents have signed the “Acknowledgment of Rules” form.  A student who resigns from athletics after having participated (suited up) in an event, is considered to have resigned from all athletics for the school year.  Exceptions to the above policy are: a physical injury preventing further participation, doctor’s orders, or by mutual agreement, approved by the principal, between the head coach, the student, and the student’s parents.

 Band

The Petersburg band is an important part of the school program.  In addition to performing at football games, the band marches in parades, gives concerts, and enters the UIL contests. Students in grades seven through twelve may take band if they wish.  The High School Band will consist of grades eight through twelve.  Due to the expensive nature of band instruments and the upkeep involved, instruments that are furnished by the school will require a small rental fee.  Students must be passing all subjects in order to participate in band activities.  Students may receive a letter jacket during either their junior or senior year as approved by the band director.  Due to cost of buying and maintaining uniforms, fees will be collected.  The fees should be paid prior to the first public performance of the band.  If a student is unable to pay these fees, the student and his parents or guardian must present evidence of their inability to pay to the high school principal and director who shall pass upon the fact in which case the fee or fees will be waived.

 Cheerleading

Cheerleaders are very important in developing and maintaining good school spirit.  This activity requires a great deal of time; therefore, cheerleaders must be able to keep up with their school work as well as many other activities.  Prospective cheerleaders must be passing all subjects and have an average of 80 in order to try-out and must maintain this average after being elected.  Failure in the classroom will automatically cause removal from the cheerleader squad until the grade is passing.  High character is of utmost importance.  Unsatisfactory conduct in any way will be considered grounds for suspension.  Uniforms must be approved by the school administration. Cost and appearance will be factors influencing the decision of the administration.

Six cheerleaders will form a squad.  A school election will be held after tryouts in the spring.  Voting will be by secret ballot by 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students.  Faculty scoring will be weighted.  A project will be evaluated by judges, and the cheerleader candidates will all try out in front of a panel of judges to be scored and weighted.  The elected cheerleaders will elect a head cheerleader from the junior and senior cheerleaders.

 Letter Awards

All participants who letter on a varsity team in a major sport event (football, cross country, basketball, track & field) will be awarded (upon recommendation of the head coach by meeting individual sport requirements and approval of the principal) a letter jacket or blanket (not to exceed $70 in value) in either their junior or senior year provided the athlete is currently participating and in good standing in athletics.  All others who played enough to letter on a varsity team will be awarded a minor award (not to exceed $12 in value).  They may purchase a jacket at their own expense if they have met the qualifications and so choose.

All participants who letter in an individual sport (tennis and golf) will be awarded (upon recommendation of the head coach by meeting individual sport requirements and approval of the principal and having lettered for three years) a letter jacket or blanket (not to exceed $70 in value) in either their junior or senior year provided the athlete is currently participating and in good standing in athletics.  All others who played enough to letter on a varsity team will be awarded a minor award (not to exceed $12 in value).  They may purchase a jacket at their own expense if they have met the qualifications and so choose. 

No awards except certificates of participation will be awarded to members of sub-varsity teams.  Managers of varsity sports will receive the same consideration as athletes.  Only one free jacket may be awarded during the high school career.

Offices and Elections

• Class officers - Each class will elect a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer.  Each class will also elect a student council representative.        
• Student Council - Student council officers will be elected in the spring semester, according to their constitution.  A president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer will be elected at large.  Class representatives and presidents serve on the council along with the head cheerleader and organizational presidents.

The various clubs and organizations of Petersburg ISD will be responsible for following guidelines of their respective national and/or state organizations for all matters, including election of officers and acceptance of members.

 FEES

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds at no charge to a student.  A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:

• Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.
• Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities.
• Security deposits.
• Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.
• Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.
• Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance.
• Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the district.
• Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.
• Parking fees and student identification cards.
• Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books.
• Fees for driver training courses, if offered.
• Fees for optional courses offered for credit that requires use of facilities not available on district premises.
• Summer school for courses that are offered tuition-free during the regular school year.
• A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student who lives within two miles of the school.  [See Buses and Other School Vehicles on page 42.]
• A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an educational program outside of regular school hours for a student who has lost credit because of absences and whose parent chooses the program in order for the student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement.  The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a district-provided request form.

Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay.  Application for such a waiver may be made to the principal.  [For further information, see policies at FP.]

FUND-RAISING

Student groups or classes and/or parent groups may be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes.  An application for permission must be made to the superintendent at least 30 days before the event for ALL fund-raising activities.  In the application, the purpose of use of the funds must be clearly stated.  Within 5 school days of the end of each fund- raising activity, a report must be submitted to the principal with specific details of each individual’s participation and progress toward individual and group goals.  

Listed below are traditional fund-raising activities by organization and class:

• Seniors - Vending Machines, Basketball Concessions, Two Football Suppers, Petersburg Day Booths (Ice Cream, T-Shirts, Meal, Removable Tattoos), T-shirts, Ghost-A-Grams, and Removable Tattoos during football season.
• Juniors - One Football Supper, Homecoming Mum Sales, Petersburg Day Booth, One sale of worthwhile goods, Magazine Sales
• FFA -    Choice of either Fruit or Meat Sales, Grass seed sales
• FCCLA  - Cookie Dough and Pie Sale, Valentine Cookies & Ribbons, Suckers
• Band - One Football supper, One sale of worthwhile goods, Concession at Football Games
• Cheerleaders - Ads in Top’O Texas Magazine, Jr. Cheerleader Clinic, Pre-Petersburg Night, Car Wash
• Any additions or changes to this list must be approved by the Superintendent.

Except as approved by the superintendent, fund-raising by any outside organization is not permitted on school property.  [For further information, see policies at FJ and GE.]

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward graduation.  Grade classification is based on the number of credits earned before the school year begins.

       Credits Earned             Classification

           6 or fewer                 Grade 9 (Freshman)

             6.5 - 12                   Grade 10  (Sophomore)

            12.5 - 18                  Grade 11  (Junior)

         18.5 or more               Grade 12  (Senior)

GRADING GUIDELINES

In grades 7 – 12, achievement shall be based on the degree of mastery of essential knowledge and skills.  All grades must be numerical.  An average of 70 or above for each course is required to receive credit or pass.  This 70 represents mastery of at least 70 percent of the essential knowledge and skills for the subject or course.  Therefore, mastery and grade requirements are both required to achieve credit for a course.  An average of 70 for both semesters is necessary for a full credit.

A minimum of two grades per week will be utilized to assign six weeks grades.

The following courses will be weighed by (5) additional points for honors averaging:

AP English, Spanish I, II, and III, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, and Anatomy and Physiology.  Honor classes will be weighted 5 points.  The additional 5 points given for honors classes will be shown on the student’s final report card.

GRADUATION

 Requirements for a Diploma

To receive a high school diploma from the district, a student must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass a statewide exit-level exam.

The exit-level test, required for students in grade 11, covers English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies and requires knowledge of Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, Integrated Chemistry and Physics, English III, and early American and United States History, World History, and World Geography.  A student who does not pass the exit-level assessment will have additional opportunities to take the test. 

Graduation Programs

The district offers the graduation programs listed below.  All students entering grade 9 are required to enroll in the Recommended High School Program or Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program. Permission to enroll in the Minimum Graduation Program will be granted only if an agreement is reached among the student, the student’s parent or person standing in parental relation, and the counselor or appropriate administrator.  [See policy EIF(LEGAL).]

All students must meet the following credit requirements for graduation:

• Minimum Program                                                                   26 credits
• Recommended Program                                                         26 credits
• Advanced/Distinguished Achievement Program                        26 credits

Certificates of Coursework Completion

A certificate of coursework completion will not be issued to a senior student who successfully completes state and local credit requirements for graduation but fails to perform satisfactorily on the exit-level tests. 

Students with Disabilities

Upon the recommendation of the admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) committee, a student with disabilities may be permitted to graduate under the provisions of his or her individualized education program (IEP).

A student who receives special education services and has completed four years of high school, but has not met the requirements of his or her IEP, may participate in graduation ceremonies and receive a certificate of attendance.  Even if the student participates in graduation ceremonies to receive the certificate of attendance, he or she may remain enrolled to complete the IEP and earn his or her high school diploma; however, the student will only be allowed to participate in one graduation ceremony.  [See FMH(LEGAL)]

Graduation Activities

Graduation activities will include Commencement Exercises which are conducted according to tradition.  Members of the graduating class and the school administration will conduct the program.  Senior speakers are chosen based on class rank for their high school careers through the fifth six weeks of their senior year.  A student that has not met all requirements for graduation will not participate in graduation activities.

 Graduation Speakers

Graduating students will be given an opportunity to provide opening and closing remarks during the graduation ceremony.  Only those students selected by class rank will be eligible to give these remarks; however, if the student was assigned to disciplinary placement at any time during the spring semester, he or she will not be eligible to speak at graduation.

Students eligible to give the opening and closing remarks will be notified by the principal and given an opportunity to volunteer.  In the event there are more eligible students volunteering than there are speaking roles at the graduation ceremony, the names of all eligible students who volunteered shall be randomly drawn.  The student whose name is drawn first will give the opening remarks and the student whose name is drawn second will give the closing remarks.

In addition to the opening and closing remarks, the valedictorian and salutatorian may also have speaking roles at the graduation ceremony.

[For student speakers at other school events, see STUDENT SPEAKERS on page 41.]

[See FNA(LOCAL).]

Graduation Expenses

Because students and parents will incur expenses in order to participate in the traditions of graduation—such as the purchase of invitations, senior ring, cap and gown, and senior picture—both student and parent should monitor progress toward completion of all requirements for graduation.  The expenses often are incurred in the junior year or first semester of the senior year.  [See Student Fees on page 26.] 

State Scholarships and Grants

• Under the Texas Early High School Graduation Scholarship Program, students who complete the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement (Advanced) High School Program may earn financial credits in varying amounts to apply toward college tuition.  The amounts depend on the number of consecutive months in which the student completed graduation requirements and the number of early college credits earned and may be used at public or private higher education institutions within the state.  The counselor can provide additional information about meeting the program’s eligibility requirements.
• Students who have a financial need according to federal criteria and who complete the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program (Advanced) may be eligible under the T.E.X.A.S. Grant Program for tuition and fees to Texas public universities, community colleges, and technical schools, as well as to private institutions.  [For further information, see the principal or counselor and policy EJ(LEGAL).]

HARASSMENT

[See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page 18.]

HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS

Physical Activity for Students in Middle School

In accordance with policies at EHAB and EHAC, students in middle or junior high school shall engage in 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per day for at least four semesters OR at least 225 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity within a two-week period for at least four semesters.

For additional information on the district’s requirements and programs regarding elementary, middle, and junior high school student physical activity requirements, please see the principal.

 School Health Advisory Council

During the preceding school year, the district’s School Health Advisory Council held four meetings.  Additional information regarding the district’s School Health Advisory Council is available from the guidance counselor.  [See also policies at BDF and EHAA.]

 Physical Fitness Assessment

Annually, the district will conduct a physical fitness assessment of students in grades 3–12.  At the end of the school year, a parent may submit a written request to the physical education director to obtain the results of his or her child’s physical fitness assessment conducted during the school year.

Vending Machines

The district has adopted policies and implemented procedures to comply with state and federal food service guidelines for restricting student access to vending machines.  For more information regarding these policies and guidelines see the principal.  [See policies at CO and FFA.]

Other Health-Related Matters

Tobacco Prohibited

The district and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students and others on school property and at school-sponsored and school-related activities.  [See the Student Code of Conduct and policies at FNCD and GKA.]

Asbestos Management Plan

The district’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations, is available in the superintendent’s office.  If you have any questions, please contact Joey Nichols.

 PestManagement Plan

The district applies only pest control products that comply with state and federal guidelines.  Except in an emergency, signs will be posted 48 hours before application.  Parents who want to be notified prior to pesticide application inside their child’s school assignment area may contact Joey Nichols. 

 HOMECOMING

Activities are held every year during a football game.  The homecoming queen candidates will be nominated by the varsity football team and elected by secret ballot from the student body.  A special ceremony is conducted at pre-game of the football game to honor these girls.  The Homecoming Queen will be announced at that time.

HOMELESS STUDENTS

For more information on services for homeless students, contact the district’s Liaison for Homeless Children and Youths, Sydney Nichols, at 667-3574.

 HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral part of the overall academic program at Petersburg ISD.  All students are expected to complete homework assignments in a timely manner.

IMMUNIZATION

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical reasons or reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the student will not be immunized.  For exemptions based on reasons of conscience, only official forms issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Immunization Branch, can be honored by the district.  This form may be obtained by writing the DSHS Immunization Branch (MC 1946), P.O. Box 149347, Austin, Texas 78714-9347; or online at https://webds.dshs.state.tx.us/immco/affidavit.shtm.  The form must be notarized and submitted to the principal or school nurse within 90 days of notarization.  If the parent is seeking an exemption for more than one student in the family, a separate form must be provided for each student.

The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella (German measles), mumps, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis (polio), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken pox).  The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Department of State Health Services.  Proof of immunization may be established by personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor’s opinion, the immunization required poses a significant risk to the health and well-being of the student or member of the student’s family or household.  This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long condition.  [For further information, see policy FFAB(LEGAL) and the Department of State Health Services Web site:  http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default.shtm.]

 JUNIOR-SENIOR BANQUET

In the spring of each year, the Junior class honors the Senior class with a banquet.

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

Questioning of Students

When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school, the principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation.  In other circumstances:

• The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school.
• The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.
• The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

Students Taken Into Custody

State law requires the district to permit a student to be taken into legal custody:

• To comply with an order of the juvenile court.
• To comply with the laws of arrest.
• By a law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision.
• By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court.
• By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety.
• To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody.

Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student.

The principal will immediately notify the superintendent and will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents.  Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a student’s release to a law enforcement officer, any notification will most likely be after the fact.

Notification of Law Violations

The district is required by state law to notify:

• All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.
• All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.

[For further information, see policy GRA(LEGAL).]

MAKEUP WORK

Routine and In-depth Makeup Work Assignments

For any class missed, the teacher may assign the student makeup work based on the instructional objectives for the subject or course and the needs of the individual student in mastering the essential knowledge and skills or in meeting subject or course requirements.

A student will be responsible for obtaining and completing the makeup work in a satisfactory manner and within the time specified by the teacher.  [For further information, see policy EIAB(LOCAL).]

A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.

A student will be permitted to make up tests and to turn in projects due in any class missed because of absence.  Teachers may assign a late penalty to any long-term project in accordance with time lines approved by the principal and previously communicated to students.

Students will be afforded the opportunity to make up work on a day per day basis as follows:

        One day absence - day following return to school.

        Two day absence - 2 days after return to school.

        Three day absence - 3 days after return to school.

         Four day absence - 4 days after return to school.

DAEP Makeup Work

A student removed to a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete, before the beginning of the next school year, a foundation curriculum course in which the student was enrolled at the time of removal.  The district may provide the opportunity to complete the course through an alternative method, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school.  The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district.  [See policy FOCA(LEGAL).]

In-school Suspension (ISS) Makeup Work

A student removed from the regular classroom to in-school suspension or another setting, other than a DAEP, will have an opportunity to complete before the beginning of the next school year each course the student was enrolled in at the time of removal from the regular classroom.  The district may provide the opportunity by any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school.  The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district.  [See policy FEA(LEGAL).]

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

District employees will not give a student prescription medication, nonprescription medication, herbal substances, anabolic steroids, or dietary supplements, with the following exceptions:

• Only authorized employees, in accordance with policies at FFAC, may administer:
• Prescription medication, in the original, properly labeled container, provided by the parent, along with a written request.
• Prescription medication from a properly labeled unit dosage container filled by a registered nurse or another qualified district employee from the original, properly labeled container.
• Nonprescription medication, in the original, properly labeled container, provided by the parent along with a written request.
• Herbal or dietary supplements provided by the parent only if required by the student’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan for a student with disabilities.
• In certain emergency situations, the district will maintain and administer to a student nonprescription medication, but only:
• In accordance with the guidelines developed with the district’s medical advisor; and
• When the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency treatment on the district’s form.

A student with asthma or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication at school or school-related events only if he or she has written authorization from his or her parent and a physician or other licensed health-care provider.  The student must also demonstrate to his or her physician or health-care provider the ability to use the prescribed medication, including any device required to administer the medication. 

If the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication for use during the school day, the student and parents should discuss this with the principal.

In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity.  See the principal for information.  [See policy FFAF(LEGAL).]

Psychotropic Drugs

A psychotropic drug is a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication.  It is intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior and is commonly described as a mood- or behavior-altering substance.

Teachers and other district employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they are not permitted to recommend use of psychotropic drugs.  A district employee who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse practitioner, a physician, or a certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate.  [For further information, see policies at FFAC.]

NONTRADITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Petersburg ISD does not currently offer nontraditional academic programs.  [See Requirements for a Diploma on page 28.]

 PEP RALLIES

On the day of each varsity football game the student body meets in the gymnasium for a pep rally.  The junior high school will have pep rallies scheduled by the principal, usually on home game days only.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS / HEALTH SCREENINGS

Students are not permitted to participate in any athletic practice or contests until all UIL required documents are submitted.  These documents include a Medical History, Physical (in grades 7, 9, 11 and when required due to medical history), and an Acknowledgement of Rules.

 PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MINUTE OF SILENCE

Each school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag.  Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge.

One minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges.  Each student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity during that minute so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others.  [See policy EC(LEGAL) for more information.]

PRAYER

Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school.  The school will not encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or mediation during any school activity.

PROMOTION ANDRETENTION

A student will be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency in the subject matter of the course or grade level.  To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of at least 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards.

In grades 7 and 8, promotion is based on an overall average of 70 on a scale of 100 based on course-level, grade-level standards (essential knowledge and skills) for all subject areas and a grade of 70 or above in language arts and mathematics.  In grades 9 through 12, grade-level advancement shall be earned by course credit.

In addition, at certain grade levels a student—with limited exceptions—will be required to pass the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), if the student is enrolled in a public Texas school on any day between January 1 and April 15 and is a Texas resident during the week that the TAKS is administered the first time. 

In order to be promoted to grade 9, students enrolled in grade 8 must perform satisfactorily on the mathematics and reading sections of the grade 8 assessment in English.

Parents of a student in grades 3–8 who does not perform satisfactorily on his or her exams will be notified that their child will participate in special instructional programs designed to improve performance.  The student may be required to participate in this instruction before or after normal school hours or outside of the normal school year.

A student in grade 5 or 8 will have two additional opportunities to take a failed assessment.  If a student fails a second time, a grade placement committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the teacher, and the student’s parent, will determine the additional special instruction the student will receive.  After a third failed attempt, the student will be retained; however, the parent can appeal this decision to the committee.  In order for the student to be promoted, based on standards previously established by the district, the decision of the committee must be unanimous. Whether the student is retained or promoted, an educational plan for the student will be designed to enable the student to perform at grade level by the end of the next school year.  [See policies at EIE.]

Certain students—some with disabilities and some with limited English proficiency—may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or deferred testing.  For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.

A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any student in a middle school or beyond who did not perform satisfactorily on a state-mandated assessment or is determined by the district as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year following enrollment in grade 9.  The PGP will be designed and implemented by a guidance counselor, teacher, or other staff member designated by the principal.  The plan will, among other items, identify the student’s educational goals, address the parent’s educational expectations for the student, and outline an intensive instruction program for the student.  [For additional information, see the principal and policy EIF(LEGAL).]

 

RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

Because class time is important, doctor’s appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.

A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning and follow the campus sign-out procedures before leaving the campus.  Otherwise, a student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day.  Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.

If a student becomes ill during the school day, the student should receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the school nurse.  The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent.

 REPORT CARDS / PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES

Report cards with each student’s grades or performance and absences in each class or subject are issued to parents at least once every six weeks.

At the end of the first three weeks of a grading period, parents will be given a written progress report if their child’s performance in any course is near or below 70, or is below the expected level of performance.  If the student receives a grade lower than 70 in any class or subject at the end of a grading period, the parent will be requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject.  [See Working Together on page 1 for how to schedule a conference.]

Teachers follow grading guidelines that have been approved by the principal and are designed to reflect each student’s academic achievement for the grading period, semester, or course.  State law provides that a test or course grade issued by a teacher cannot be changed unless the board determines that the grade was arbitrary or contains an error, or that the teacher did not follow the district’s grading policy.  [See policy EIA(LOCAL).]

Questions about grade calculation should first be discussed with the teacher; if the question is not resolved, the student or parent may request a conference with the principal in accordance with FNG(LOCAL).

The report card or unsatisfactory progress report will state whether tutorials are required for a student who receives a grade lower than 70 in a class or subject.

Report cards and unsatisfactory progress reports must be signed by the parent and should be returned to the school within two days.

RETALIATION

[See Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation on page 18.]

SAFETY

Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the district.  Although the district has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensuring school safety.  A student should:

• Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
• Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
• Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the principal any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus or threats made by any person toward a student or staff member.
• Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
• Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other district employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.

Accident Insurance

Soon after the school year begins, parents will have the opportunity to purchase low-cost accident insurance that would help meet medical expenses in the event of injury to their child.

Drills:  Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies

From time to time, students, teachers, and other district employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures.  When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. 

 General CampusProcedures

• Locks are to be engaged on all classroom doors, whether closed or open.
• All exterior doors other than the main high school entrance are to be locked after the beginning of first period.
• West building entrances will be unlocked during lunch.

 

 Low Level Lockdown

• Announcement:  “We are now in Low Level Lockdown.”
• Office personnel will lock the main entrance to the high school.
• Office personnel will notify areas that do not have access to the announcement (gym, band hall, field house, and cafeteria).
• Teachers immediately close classroom doors.
  • Place a “√” in the window of the door with a dry erase marker if all students are present and the room is secure.
  • Place an “X” in the window of the door with a dry erase marker if assistance is needed.
• Students are not allowed to leave the classroom for any reason.
• Regular classroom activity will proceed as normal.
• “All clear” announcement will be given to return to normal activity.

 

 High Level Lockdown

• Announcement:  “We are now in High Level Lockdown.”
• Office personnel will lock the main entrance to the high school.
• Office personnel will notify areas that do not have access to the announcement (gym, band hall, field house, and cafeteria).
• Teachers immediately close classroom doors.
  • Place a “√” in the window of the door with a dry erase marker if all students are present and the room is secure.
  • Place an “X” in the window of the door with a dry erase marker if assistance is needed.
• Students are not allowed to leave the classroom for any reason.
• Students and teachers are to move to the most interior wall (closest to the hallway) of the classroom.  Position everyone so that they cannot be seen from the hallway.
• “All clear” announcement will be given to return to normal activity.

 

 Tornado

• One continuous bellfollowed by the announcement:  “Take immediate cover.”
  • If the room has no windows, move to the most interior wall.
  • If the room is in the high school and has windows, students will move to a room across the hallway that has no windows.
  • If the room is in the junior high and has windows, move to the hallway immediately outside the classroom and take cover.

 

• One continuous bellfollowed by the announcement:  “Move to the tornado shelter rooms.”
  • Seventh grade and their sponsors to room 135
  • Eighth grade and their sponsors to the HS library
  • Ninth grade and their sponsors to the HS Library
  • Tenth grade and their sponsors to room 141
  • Eleventh grade and their sponsors to room 143
  • Twelfth grade and their sponsors to room 145

 

 Fire/Building Evacuation

• Three bells followed by the announcement:  “We will safely evacuate the building.”
• Follow the Emergency Exit route posted for each room.
• Once outside the building, proceed to the PE barn.
• Sit, by class, in the following locations:
  • Seventh grade and their sponsors:  SW Corner
  • Eighth grade and their sponsors:  West Middle
  • Ninth grade and their sponsors:  NW Corner
  • Tenth grade and their sponsors:  NE Corner
  • Eleventh grade and their sponsors:  East Middle
  • Twelfth grade and their sponsors:  SE Corner

Further instructions will be given in the PE barn.

Emergency Medical Treatment and Information

If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school would need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment, and information about allergies to medications, foods, insect bites, etc.  Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form.  Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.).  Please contact the office to update any information that the office or the teacher needs to know.

Emergency School-Closing Information

The following stations will be called for school hour changes or dismissal due to bad weather:

   KFYO (Lubbock)  AM 790                                              KRLB  (Lubbock)  FM 99.5

   KLLL  (Lubbock)   FM 96.3                                             KAMC (Lubbock)  Channel 28

        KCBD (Lubbock)  Channel 11                                    KLBK (Lubbock)   Channel 13

   FOX 34 (Lubbock) Channel 34

 SAT, ACT, AND OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTS 

Many colleges require either the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for admission.  Students are encouraged to talk with the counselor early during their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; these exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year.  (Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, most students must take a standardized test, such as the Texas Higher Education Assessment [THEA]).

SCHOOL FACILITIES

  Use By Students Before and After School

Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes.  Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place.  The hallway outside the gymnasium that connects the junior high to the high school will be made available before school beginning at 7:15 a.m.

Unless the teacher or sponsor overseeing the activity gives permission, a student will not be permitted to go to another area of the building or campus.

After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately.

  Conduct Before and After School

Teachers and administrators have full authority over student conduct at before- or after-school activities on district premises and at school-sponsored events off district premises, such as play rehearsals, club meetings, athletic practices, and special study groups or tutorials.  Students are subject to the same rules of conduct that apply during the instructional day and will be subject to consequences established by the Student Code of Conduct or any stricter standards of behavior for extracurricular participants established by the sponsor.

  Use of Hallways During Class Time

Loitering or standing in the halls during class is not permitted.  During class time, a student must have a hall pass to be outside the classroom for any purpose.  Failure to obtain a pass will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

 Cafeteria Services

The district participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily.  Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need.  Information about a student’s participation is confidential.  See The campus secretary to apply.

The district follows the federal and state guidelines regarding foods of minimal nutritional value being served or sold on school premises during the school day.  For more information, see policy CO.

  Library

The library is a learning laboratory with books, computers, magazines, and other materials available for classroom assignments, projects, and reading or listening pleasure.  The library is open for student use from 8:20 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. daily.  Students going to the library without a teacher must have a pass to do so.  No materials may be removed from the library without permission and proper check-out procedures.  Students may not bring food or drink into the library at any time.

Rules of use:                                                                  

• All general reference books are to be used in the library and never taken out without special permission from the librarian. 
• Books may be checked out for two weeks.
• The cost of repair or replacement of damaged books must be paid when the incident occurs.
• A fine is charged on a per-day basis for lost books.
• Students are expected to return all library materials prior to final examinations.

 Meetings of Noncurriculum-Related Groups

Student-organized, student-led noncurriculum-related groups are permitted to meet during the hours designated by the principal before and after school.  These groups must comply with the requirements of policy FNAB (LOCAL). 

A list of these groups is available in the principal’s office.

SEARCHES

In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, district officials may from time to time conduct searches.  Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law.

Students’ Desks and Lockers

Students’ desks and lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student.

Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of their assigned desks and lockers.  Students must be certain that their lockers are locked, and that the combinations are not available to others.

Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by policy, whether or not a student is present.

The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker.

Vehicles on Campus

Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school.  School officials may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the permission of the student.  A student has full responsibility for the security and content of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to others.  [See further guidelines for VEHICLES ON CAMPUS on page 43 and also the Student Code of Conduct.]

Trained Dogs

The district will use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol.   At any time, trained dogs may be used around lockers and the areas around vehicles parked on school property.  Searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings may also be conducted by trained dogs when students are not present.  An item in a classroom, a locker, or a vehicle to which a trained dog alerts may be searched by school officials.

SENIOR TRIP

The senior class has the privilege to select the location for a sight-seeing tour to some location that is approved by the administration and school board.  This trip is planned by the seniors, the senior sponsors, and the principal.  Such a trip requires a significant amount of money for travel, lodging, and food.  A student must participate in fund-raising activities during both the junior and senior year in order to go on the senior trip.  Students failing to comply with these guidelines will be denied the opportunity to participate in this trip.  Under no circumstances will anyone besides school personnel and their spouses and qualifying seniors be allowed to participate in this trip.

If a student has not participated in fund-raising activities during the junior year, it is at the discretion of the sponsors and the principal to allow the student to pay a fee of $150 within the first five days of the school year to be reinstated for trip eligibility.

If a student has not gained the minimum number of credits required to be classified as a senior on the first day of the school year, they will not be eligible for the trip.

A maximum of two school days and a weekend may be allowed for the trip.  Definite graduation status and scholastic eligibility are criteria to make the trip.  Clearing all financial obligations and class work requirements are necessary as well.  Under no circumstances would a student be eligible for two senior trips.

Fund-raising activities in keeping with school policy in the name of the classes are permitted with the permission of the principal, and such money raised should be used by the class as a class and not appropriated to the individual members.  To use the class funds for personal use beyond that described above would be taking advantage of friends of the school who have helped raise the funds and is hereby prohibited.

Any unused or unassigned funds of a senior class after graduation shall be assigned at the discretion of the administration.

 

 SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The district provides special programs for gifted and talented students, homeless students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities.  The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the district or by other organizations.  A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the principal.

STEROIDS

State law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid.  Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use.

Body building, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid or human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminal offense.

Students participating in UIL athletic competition may be subject to random steroid testing.  More information on the UIL testing program may be found on the UIL Web site at http://www.uil.utexas.edu/athletics/health/steroid_information.html.

 STUDENT SPEAKERS

The district provides students the opportunity to introduce various school events.  Students are eligible to introduce these events if they

1. Are eligible to participate in the school event,
2. Volunteer, and

1. Have not been in a disciplinary alternative education placement (DAEP) at any time during the semester in which the speaking event occurs.

A student who is eligible and wishes to introduce one of the school events should submit his or her name to the principal during the first week of the fall semester and/or spring semester.  The names of all students who volunteered will be randomly drawn and matched to the event for which the student will give the introduction.  If the selected student speaker declines or becomes ineligible, then no student introduction will be made at that event.  The selection of students to introduce school events will occur at the beginning of each semester.

As determined by the principal, students who have been selected for special honors, such as captain of an athletic team, student council officers, leaders of school-sponsored organizations, homecoming king or queen, or prom king or queen may also address school audiences at designated events.

[See FNA(LOCAL)]

SUMMER SCHOOL

During any one summer, a student may earn a maximum of two (2) credits to be applied towards graduation.  Of these two credits, one (1) may be earned through correspondence work.  Correspondence course grades must be in the office 30 days prior to graduation.

TAKS (TEXAS ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS)

In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state-mandated tests (such as TAKS: the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) in the following subjects:

• Mathematics, annually in grades 3–11
• Reading, annually in grades 3–9
• Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 and 7
• English language arts in grades 10 and 11
• Social studies in grades 8, 10, and 11
• Science in grades 5, 8, 10, and 11
• Any other subject and grade required by federal law

[See policy EKB(LEGAL).]

TARDINESS

Repeated instances of tardiness will result in disciplinary action.  The third unexcused tardy in any one class period during a semester will result in either corporal punishment or ISS.  Repeated instances of tardiness will result in more severe disciplinary action.

TEXTBOOKS

State-approved textbooks are provided to students free of charge for each subject or class.  Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care.  A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher.  Any student failing to return a book issued by the school loses the right to free textbooks until the book is returned or paid for by the parent; however, the student will be provided textbooks for use at school during the school day.

TRANSPORTATION

School-Sponsored Trips

Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event.  The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent makes a written request that the student be released to the parent or to another adult designated by the parent.

 Buses and Other School Vehicles

The district makes school bus transportation available to all students living two or more miles from school.  This service is provided at no cost to students.  Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school.

A parent may also designate a child-care facility or grandparent’s residence as the regular pickup and drop-off location for his or her child.  The designated facility or residence must be on an approved stop on an approved route.  For information on bus routes and stops or to designate an alternate pickup or drop-off location, you may contact Randal Mayfield at 667-3574.

Students are expected to assist district staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that transportation is provided safely.  When riding in district vehicles, students are held to behavioral standards established in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct.  Students must:

• Follow the driver’s directions at all times.
• Enter and leave the bus or van in an orderly manner at the designated stop nearest home.
• Keep feet, books, instrument cases, and other objects out of the aisle.
• Not deface the bus, van, or its equipment.
• Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw objects within or out of the bus or van.
• Not possess or use any form of tobacco on school buses.
• Observe all usual classroom rules.
• Be seated while the vehicle is moving.
• Fasten their seat belts.
• Wait for the driver’s signal upon leaving the bus or van and before crossing in front of the vehicle.

Misconduct will be punished in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct; bus-riding privileges may be suspended.

TUTORIALS

Tutorial services will be provided for grade 7 through 12. These sessions will be conducted 25 minutes a day, Monday through Friday, from 7:45 – 8:10 a.m.  Students will be assigned to mandatory tutorials at the end of a six-week grading period, at the end of a three-week mark, or at any subsequent time during that six-weeks period, in any class in which they receive a grade less than 75.  A student may be placed in tutorials if they have demonstrated a deficiency in preparation for the various sections of the TAKS.  Parents or students may also request voluntary tutorials at any time they feel that they will be beneficial.  Requests for voluntary tutorials need to be made in writing at least one day in advance of the requested beginning date.

VANDALISM

The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities.  To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended—both this year and for years to come—littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated.  Students will be required to pay for damages they cause and will be subject to criminal proceedings as well as disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

 VEHICLES ON CAMPUS

The Petersburg Independent School District requires all operation of motor vehicles on PISD property to be done so with safety.  The operation of motor vehicles on PISD property is a privilege and not a right.  PISD reserves the right to restrict any person from operating a vehicle on PISD property who fails to operate the vehicle in a safe manner.

To help ensure the safety of student drivers and others on school grounds, PISD students parking motor vehicles on PISD property will be required to obtain a PISD motor vehicle parking permit.  A copy of the application is available at the secondary office and it must be completed and approved before a permit is issued and parking privileges may begin.  The permit must be displayed on the vehicle dashboard at all times.

PISD students requesting a PISD motor vehicle parking permit will be required to submit to the PISD drug testing program as described in FNF(LOCAL). 

Students failing to comply with safe motor vehicle operation practices are subject to appropriate disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension and/or revocation of the PISD motor vehicle parking permit.

Any vehicle failing to display the motor vehicle parking permit may be towed off the premises, and the student driver may be subject to disciplinary action.  The owner of the vehicle shall be liable for all costs associated with the towing of a vehicle parked on school grounds due to its failure to display a valid parking permit.

VIDEO CAMERAS

For safety purposes, video/audio equipment may be used to monitor student behavior on buses and in common areas on campus.  Students will not be told when the equipment is being used.

The principal will review the video/audio recordings routinely and document student misconduct.  Discipline will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

General Visitors

Parents and others are welcome to visit district schools.  For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, all visitors must first report to the principal’s office and must comply with all applicable district policies and procedures.

Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment.  Non-Petersburg ISD students may not visit classrooms unless special permission has been pre-arranged with the principal.  Non-Petersburg students must report to the principal’s office immediately upon arrival.  Any non-Petersburg ISD student must adhere to all campus rules during their time on campus.

All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be permitted.

Visitors Participating in Special Programs for Students

On occasion, the district invites representatives from colleges and universities and other higher education institutions, prospective employers, and military recruiters to present information to interested students. 

WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL

A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by a parent. The school requests notice from the parent at least three days in advance so that records and documents may be prepared.  The parent may obtain a withdrawal form from the principal’s office.

On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book clearance; to the librarian to ensure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and finally, to the principal.  A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student, and a copy will be placed in the student’s permanent record.

A student who is 18 or older, who is married, or who has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor, may withdraw without parental signature.

GLOSSARY

Accelerated instructionis an intensive supplemental program designed to address the needs of an individual student in acquiring the knowledge and skills required at his or her grade level.

ACT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams:  the American College Test.  The test may be a requirement for admission to certain colleges or universities.

ARD is the admission, review, and dismissal committee convened for each student who is identified as needing a full and individual evaluation for special education services.  The eligible student’s parents are part of the committee.

Attendance Review Committeeis sometimes responsible for reviewing a student’s absences when the student’s attendance drops below 90 percent of the days the class is offered.  Under guidelines adopted by the board, the committee will determine whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences and whether the student needs to complete certain conditions to master the course and regain credit lost because of absences.

DAEP stands for disciplinary alternative education program, a placement for students who have violated certain provisions of the Student Code of Conduct.  Students in the DAEP will be separated from students not assigned to the program.  The DAEP will focus instruction on English language arts, mathematics, science, history, and self-discipline, and provide for students’ educational and behavior needs, as well as supervision and counseling.

FERPA refers to the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act that grants specific privacy protections to student records.  The law contains certain exceptions, such as for directory information, unless a student’s parent or a student 18 or older directs the school not to release directory information.

IEP is the written record of the Individualized Education Program prepared by the ARD committee for a student with disabilities who is eligible for special education services.  The IEP contains several parts, such as a statement of the student’s present educational performance; a statement of measurable annual goals, with short-term objectives; the special education and related services and supplemental aids and services to be provided, and program modifications or support by school personnel; a statement regarding how the student’s progress will be measured and how the parents will be kept informed; accommodations for state or district wide tests, etc.

ISS refers to in-school suspension, a disciplinary technique for misconduct found in the Student Code of Conduct.  Although different from out-of-school suspension and placement in a DAEP, ISS removes the student from the regular classroom. 

LAT stands for Linguistically Accommodated Testing, which is an assessment process for recent immigrant English language learners who are required to be assessed in certain grades and subjects under the NCLB Act.

NCLB Act is the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.

Personal Graduation Plan (PGP)is recommended for all students entering grade 9 and is required by state law for any student in middle school or higher who fails a section on a state-mandated test or is identified by the district as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year after he or she begins grade 9.

SAT refers to one of the two most frequently used college or university admissions exams:  the Scholastic Aptitude Test.  The test may be a requirement for admissions to certain colleges or universities.

Section 504 is the federal law that prohibits discrimination against a student with a disability, requiring schools to provide opportunities for equal services, programs, and participation in activities.  Unless the student is determined to be eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), general education with appropriate instructional accommodations will be provided.

State-mandated tests are required of students at certain grade levels and in specified subjects.  Successful performance sometimes is a condition of promotion, and passing the grade 11 exit-level test is a condition of graduation.  Students have multiple opportunities to take the tests if necessary for promotion or graduation.

Student Code of Conductis developed with the advice of the district-level committee and adopted by the board; identifies the circumstances, consistent with law, when a student may be removed from the classroom or campus.  It also sets out the conditions that authorize or require the principal or another administrator to place the student in a DAEP.  It outlines conditions for out-of-school suspension and for expulsion, and states whether self-defense is a consideration in suspension, DAEP placement, or expulsion.  The Student Code of Conduct also addresses notice to the parent regarding a student’s violation of one of its provisions.

TAKS is the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, the state’s standardized achievement test currently given to students in certain subjects in grades 3–11.

TAKS-Accommodated is the state mandated assessment based on the same grade-level academic achievement standards of TAKS available to certain students who receive special education services who need specific accommodations, as determined by the student and his or her ARD committee.

TAKS Alternate is the alternate state mandated assessment designed for students with severe cognitive disabilities receiving special education services who meet the participation requirements, as determined by the student and his or her ARD committee.

TAKS Modified is an alternate state mandated assessment based on modified achievement standards and is administered to eligible students receiving special education services, as determined by the student and his or her ARD committee.

TELPAS stands for the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System, which assesses the progress that English language learners make in learning the English language, and is administered for those who meet the participation requirements in kindergarten-grade 12.

UIL refers to the University Interscholastic League, the statewide voluntary nonprofit organization that oversees educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contests.