2008- 2009 High School Student Handbook
WELCOME TO
The Board of Education of the
It is the policy of the
It is the policy of
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
2008 - 2009 school year. I hope that this year will be an exciting year for you, both academically and socially. Many questions you might have regarding the high school can be answered in the following pages. Please read carefully, and you will better understand the procedures, rules and expectations of students at
Sincerely,
Frank Doudna, Ed D.
Principal
DISTRICT & SCHOOL
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of
2008 – 2009
School Calendar
2008 Aug 18 Teacher Work Day
Aug 19 Teacher In-Service Day
Aug 20 First Day for Students
Sept 1 No School – Labor Day
Oct 17 End of 1st Quarter (42)
Nov 14 No Classes -P/T Conferences
Nov 27 No School-Thanksgiving Day
Nov 28 No School-Vacation Day
Dec 1 Waiver Day (No Students)
Dec 19 End of 2nd Quarter (42)
Dec 22 No Classes - Winter Break
Begins
2009 Jan 2 Waiver Day (No Students)
Jan 5 Classes Resume
Jan 19 No School -M.L. King Day
Feb 13 No Classes – P/T Conferences
Feb 16 No School -President’s Day
Mar 20 Waiver Day – (No Students)
Mar 20 End of 3rd Quarter (53)
Mar 23 No School - Spring Break
Begins
Mar 30 Classes Resumes
Apr 10 No Classes – Vacation Day
May 25 No Classes-Memorial Day
May 27 Last Day for Students
May 27 End of 4th Quarter (41)
May 28 Teacher Work Day
If the allotted number of days allowed by ODOE are exceeded, days that needed to be made up shall be added to the end of the school year.
ACCIDENTS AND ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
All serious accidents and illness at school must be reported to the teacher in charge and then to the clinic. The nurse on duty will use professional judgment as to the seriousness of the illness or injury, and every effort will be made to contact parents. Students are not to leave the school grounds and not be taken home unless authorized by parents.
INFORM THE OFFICE IF YOU CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER. IT COULD BE VERY IMPORTANT IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY. By law emergency medical forms, which are requested at the start of each school year, are kept on file in the office.
ACTIVITIES (DAY and NIGHT)
Students attending school related activities such as school dances, athletic events, plays, etc., are subject to all school regulations and are expected to conduct themselves properly at all times. Any student involved in disorderly conduct, possession of alcohol, drugs, fighting, smoking or possession of tobacco products, improper dress, etc, will be subject to strict discipline according to our Parent/Student Handbook. Class advisors, student leaders, and faculty members involved in school‑related activities are to work closely with the administration in charge of the student activity. These activities are essential components of school life. We will not allow a few unruly students to spoil these activities for the majority of our students who have the right to enjoy themselves.
School Rules for Dances
1. Students pay an admission to be admitted to a school dance.
2. Once a student leaves the dance, he/she will not be re‑admitted.
3. All school and state laws pertaining to users or possession of alcohol, tobacco products or other harmful drugs are in effect.
4. Proper conduct is required at all times.
5. School dances will be
chaperoned by advisor(s) and at least 2 other adults plus 2 uniformed police officers.
6. Guests will be admitted to dances
during the school year but they must be high school students, not 8th graders or below. Guests must secure permission from the principal’s office prior to the beginning of the dance. NO EXCEPTIONS.
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
Students arriving between
ANNOUNCEMENTS (PA)
Only approved students can make announcements. All announcements must have prior teacher and administrative approval.
ASSEMBLIES
Students are to conduct themselves in a respectful and appreciative manner at assemblies. Appropriate applause is welcomed. Inappropriate yelling, noises, catcalls, etc. are not permitted. At pep rallies, inappropriate signs and homemade clothing (T-shirts) are not permitted. Cheering should be directed at the team, not for special classes.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
The Alexander Local Board of Education has adopted the Athens County School Attendance Program as developed by the Juvenile Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Athens County. The program states in relevant part: The main purpose of this program is to establish the mechanics of procedures to be followed in school attendance and to adopt a uniform attendance program for all school children of
The mechanics begin with a first notice being sent by the school principal to the appropriate attendance officer when a child accumulates five (5) days of unexcused absences. Upon receipt of this first notice, the attendance officer, as compelled by law, Section 3321.19 Ohio Revised Code, notifies the child and the child's parents of the compulsory attendance laws and warns that if an additional five (5) unexcused absences are accumulated that further action will be taken. If the child accumulates an additional five (5) days, a second notice is mailed to the attendance officer by the school principal. The attendance officer then may either file an unruly child complaint in the Juvenile Court or request the Juvenile Court to notify the child and the child's parents to be present at an administrative hearing at a place and before a hearing officer to be designated by the school.
At the administrative hearing, which is held at the child's home school, the hearing officer advises the child of the legal definition of an unruly child, the possible legal consequence of being found to be unruly and advisement of the child's constitutional rights. The hearing officer, also, advises the parent that "failure to send a child to school is a crime for which the parent can be required to post a $500.00 bond. Additional violations could result in the parent being sentenced to up to 10 days in the Athens County Jail." If the matter is disposed of at the conference level, then the child does not have to appear in Court
Habitual Truant: Any child who is absent without “legitimate excuse for absence from the public school the child is supposed to attend” for five or more consecutive school days, seven or more school days in one school month, or 12 or more school days in a school year.
Chronic Truant: Any child of age who is absent without” legitimate excuse for absence from the public school the child is to attend” for seven or more consecutive school days, ten or more school days in one school month, or 15 or more school days in a school year.
The Missing Person Law now in effect in
- Parent or guardian must write a signed excuse giving student's name, date, days of absence and reason for absence, upon the students return.
- Students must present excuse to the office.
- Credit will not be given for work missed
during an unexcused absence.
- Students must be in attendance on the day of an activity before attending or participating.
- Unexcused absence is defined as any absences not recognized in statue but requested by the parents. Unexcused absences may include, but are not limited to shopping, getting a haircut, missing the bus, and leaving school grounds for lunch.
- Five unexcused absences will be reported to the attendance officer.
Attendance
For the purpose of
1. The high school schedule is divided into periods in addition to homeroom. Absences will be counted accordingly.
2. Students are permitted eight (8) absences per period per year with a parent note. Thereafter, all absences other than medical or otherwise authorized by the principal will be deemed unexcused absences.
3. Students arriving after
tardy and must report to the office with a note from a parent or guardian or doctor explaining the reason for tardiness. Tardiness will be classified as follows:
- Students checking in after
- Students checking out between
- Missing more than 15 minutes of a class period will result in the student being marked absent for that class.
Accumulation of 4 non-medical tardies in any one grading period will result in a detention. Accumulation of additional tardies will result in more serious consequences, including referral to Athens County Juvenile Court.
Tardiness
Tardy to second through eighth period classes shall result in a warning for the first offense and a detention for each additional offense each nine weeks. This will be handled by the classroom teacher.
Repeated tardiness may result in a parent-teacher-principal conference and/or other disciplinary actions.
Student Attendance Policy – Loss of Grades for Excessive Absence
Continuity in the learning process is seriously disrupted by a student's excessive absences. Make-up work cannot be adequately substituted for classroom work. Students who have good attendance generally achieve higher grades, enjoy school more, and are more employable after leaving high school. The lack of good attendance causes students not to reach their potential, and these students frequently experience difficulty in school. Missing more than 15 minutes of a class is considered an absence.
Therefore, to ensure the highest level of student success,
No Credit Policy
1. Any high school student who is absent for seven or more days of unauthorized absences during a semester may receive no passing grades for those courses taken during that semester.
2. A medically excused absence is defined as an absence documented by a medical professional. A note from a parent, or from any other non-medical professional, does not constitute a medically excused absence.
3. For purposes of this policy, the following will not be considered as absences: school field trips, college visits, participation in school athletic contests, assemblies, school-sponsored extracurricular activities, and educational options.
4. A warning letter will be sent to a student's home after four days of unauthorized excused absences in any one semester. After seven or more days of unauthorized excused absences during a semester, a letter will be sent home stating that the student may not be receiving passing grades for any courses during that semester.
Right of Appeal
1. A student who receives no passing grades for semester courses under this policy may appeal to the Principal if the absences were the result of unusual or extenuating circumstances. Circumstances which may be considered in any appeal include:
a. Unusual family emergencies or circumstances
b. Actual grades earned in courses
c. Nature and number of absences
d. Previous attendance history
2. In order to appeal a no-passing grades determination, the student or student's parent or guardian must file a written appeal with the Principal within ten days of the date the letter was sent to the student's home indicating that the student had accumulated seven or more days of unauthorized absences. The appeal must state the reason why the student's absences warrant special consideration.
3. The appeal will be considered by the Principal who may uphold the no-passing determination, reverse the no-passing determination, or extend the number of allowable absences. The decision of the Principal is final.
4. Students are responsible for coming to class during an appeal, and also after losing passing grades for semester classes. Loss of passing grade does not relieve a student from the responsibility to attend school, and will have no effect on any other penalties established for truancy by law or by Board policy.
Attendance: Half Day
State law requires that students be scheduled for a full day of school except under the following conditions: (1) the student is enrolled in an approved work program, (2) the student is enrolled and taking classes given at Ohio University Hocking College
AUDITING CLASSES
Students may choose to audit (take for no credit) any ¼ credit non-required elective. This would include school service, PE leadership, and any physical education course following completion of the required ½ credit. Students auditing classes must have prior principal approval to do so.
AWARD OF MERIT ELIGIBILITY
The requirements listed below have been adopted for the “Award of Merit”. This certificate will be awarded by the Ohio State Board of Education to all those who meet the criteria specified in A and C or B and C below.
A. COLLEGE PRE-CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS
Complete the following minimum requirements:
- English – four (4) units. May include one (1) unit of fundamentals of speech.
- Mathematics – three (3) units. Must include one (1) unit of Algebra and one (1) unit of Geometry.
- Science – three (3) units. Must include two (2) units from among biology, chemistry and physics.
- Social Studies – three (3) units. Must include two (2) units of history and one-half (1/2) unit of civics or government.
- Foreign Language – three (3) units. Must include no less than two (2) units of any language for which credit is sought, i.e., three (3) units of one language or two (2) units of two languages.
- Complete two (2) units from one or more of the following or two (2) additional units from one or more of the areas listed in items A. 1 through A. 5 above.
- Business
- Computer Science
- Visual or Performing Arts
Courses taken as part of the post-secondary option apply to the criteria for the “Award of Merit”.
1. Complete a career technical occupational preparation program.
- Complete the following curriculum requirements:
- English—four (4) units
- Mathematics –three (3) units
- Science—two (2) units
- Social Studies—three (3) units
Applied academics credits earned via career-technical education shall apply to the criteria for the “Award of Merit”.
- Complete two (2) units from one or more of the following or two (2) additional units from one or more of the areas listed in items B. 2 above.
- Business
- Computer Science
- Foreign Language
- Visual or Performing Arts
C. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (APPLIED TO BOTH CURRICULA)
- Maintain above average attendance for grades 9 through 12(compared to a rolling four-year state average). For 2008 the four-year state average is 94.32 percent attendance.
- Demonstrate outstanding achievement in the curriculum as evidenced by one of the following:
- earning the equivalent of an overall grade point average of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale for grades 9 through 12
- earning the equivalent of an overall grade point average of 3.5 on a four scale for grades 11 and 12 or ranking in the top 25% of the class, whichever is more inclusive
3. Participate in co-curricular, extra-curricular or community activities in accordance with procedures established by the District Board of Education.
- Demonstrate outstanding citizenship/character traits in accordance with criteria established by the Board of Education.
BUS POLICY
Bus transportation is provided as assistance to and a privilege for our students. For safety's sake, students who travel by bus are expected to observe the following guidelines on the way to and from school:
Bus Rules
All students should know their bus number, arrival, and departure times.
1. Pupils shall arrive at the bus stop before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
2. Pupils must wait in a location clear of traffic and away from the bus stops.
3. Behavior at the school bus stop must not endanger any person or any property.
4. Pupils must go directly to their assigned seats or to any available seat if no seat has been assigned.
5. Pupils must remain seated, keeping aisles and exits clear.
6. Pupils must observe classroom conduct and obey the driver promptly and respectfully; pupils must not distract the driver through misbehavior.
7. Pupils must not use profane language.
8. Pupils must not eat or drink on the bus except as required for medical reasons.
9. Pupils must not use tobacco on the bus.
10. Pupils must not have alcohol or drugs in their possession on the bus except for prescription medication required for a student.
11. Pupils must not throw or pass objects on, from or into the bus.
12. Pupils may keep with them at their seats those objects that can be held in their laps. Larger items may be stored, so long as a clear aisle to the exit door is maintained at all times and so long as each student can remain seated (no standees).
13. Pupils must leave or board the bus at locations to which they have been assigned unless they have a note to do otherwise signed by a parent or guardian and authorized by the school administration.
14. Pupils must not extend any part of their bodies out of the bus windows.
15. While waiting for the bus and while on the bus, pupils must conform their behavior to all of the provisions of the Student Code of Conduct.
16. Pupils must not engage in any behavior that interferes with the safe, orderly and efficient operation of the bus.
17. Students are not allowed to bring animals, balloons, or glass containers on the bus.
Bus Behavior Management Program
Minor Offense; Behavior within a driver’s control
- Verbal warning
- Reassign bus seats as needed.
- Private conference with student.
- Parent/Guardian courtesy letter.
.
Bus Safety Intervention:
1. Parent/Guardian courtesy letter sent home after 3 offenses recorded by bus driver.
2. First referral to the office: The student will receive one day bus suspension.
3. Second referral to the office: The student will be suspended from the bus for 3 days.
4. Third referral to the office: The student will be suspended from the bus for 5 days.
5. Fourth referral to the office: The student will be suspended from the bus for 10 days.
6. Fifth referral to the office: Removal from the bus for the remainder of the year.
7. “If severity dictates, any of the progressive steps may be bypassed.”
CLASS ACCELERATION
Either through a class acceleration plan, an educational options program, or the regular educational program, 18‑year‑old students may have the opportunity to complete their high school graduation requirements before the regularly scheduled time.
Requests for acceleration will be made to the building principal. The principal may seek input from the parents, teachers, counselors, psychologists, and administrators, after which he or she will make a decision based on the most developmentally appropriate educational program for each individual student.
CLASS SCHEDULES AND PROCEDURES
Schedule Changes During The First Two Weeks Of A Semester
Any request for a schedule change during the first two weeks of the semester shall be made to the guidance counselor. The counselor may seek input from parents, teachers, psychologist, and administrators, after which he or she will make a decision based on the most developmentally appropriate educational placement for each individual student.
The following may be some of the reasons for requesting a schedule change: a course failed which is a prerequisite for another course; and/or inappropriate class placement.
Class Withdrawals In A Semester
Students desiring to withdraw from a class,
without penalty, must do so no later than one week after the first mid‑term progress reports are sent out each semester. A withdrawal after this time will result in an “F” for the course. Students in a year course can withdraw only during this period in the 1st semester without penalty.
CLOSED CAMPUS
We have a closed campus policy. Students must stay on the school grounds from the time they arrive until dismissal.
Students must bring a written parental request to the office in order to leave the grounds for any reason. All students leaving school are to be signed out by their parent or guardian in the office.
COLLEGE VISITS
A student may be excused to visit a two or four year college providing he or she completes the necessary form available in the office. Juniors are permitted 2 days and seniors 3 days. No college visits may be taken after April 30.
COMMENCEMENT
Only those students who have completed all requirements for high school graduation before the day of commencement will be allowed to participate in the commencement exercises at Alexander High School
Dress Code for Commencement
1. No jeans.
2. Boys wear dress slacks, dress shoes (no
sneakers), and dress shirts. (Ties optional)
3. Girls wear dresses, skirts, or slacks and
blouses, and dress shoes
COPY MACHINE USE
Students will not be permitted to use the copying machines in the office workroom. The only exceptions to this are office aides and special education assistants and teacher aides.
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Any request to take a course by correspondence shall be made to the building principal. The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools must accredit the selected course curriculum.
The principal may seek input from the parents, teachers, counselors, psychologist and administrators, after which he or she will make a decision based on the most developmentally appropriate educational program for each individual student.
In order to maintain the most appropriate placement for each student, course work may be taken for remediation and/or acceleration. However, a student must attempt the course prior to taking it by correspondence unless there are extenuating circumstances. A student may earn no more than four (4) credits toward a diploma by completing correspondence courses. A student may earn no more than two (2) credits through correspondence courses during one (1) academic year.
DELAYING OR
The following procedures will be used when making a decision to delay or cancel school because of adverse weather conditions:
1. The superintendent will announce as early as possible to local radio when school will be delayed or closed due to inclement weather.
2. When it is questionable whether school should be canceled, the superintendent will delay the start of school. Delays maybe in increments of 1 or 2 hours, or may result in cancellation.
3. If school has already begun and weather conditions change drastically and it appears best to dismiss school early, the radio stations will be notified, bus drivers called, and students will be taken home as soon as possible.
4. It shall be the bus drivers' decision whether to use the short route schedules. Their decisions will be based on the road conditions of their particular routes.
It is suggested that parents make some preparation with their children regarding what to do or where to go in the event that school is dismissed early.
Because of limited phone lines, parents and employees are asked to listen to the radio stations or check the school website (alexanderschools.org) or the school information line for delays, closings or early dismissals rather than to call the school, principal or superintendent.
CRITERIA FOR DIPLOMA WITH HONORS
Depending on whether a student is completing a college preparatory or career-technical education curriculum, honors diploma requirements differ slightly. The student must meet the requirements for the regular diploma plus criteria for honors listed below.
The student who completes the college preparatory curriculum in high school must meet any eight of the following nine criteria: a. four units of English
b. three units of mathematics that include algebra 1, algebra II, and geometry or complete a three year sequence of courses that contain equivalent content c. at least three units of science that include instructional emphasis on the physical, life, and earth and space sciences
d. three units of social studies e. either three units of one foreign language or two units each of two foreign languages f. one unit of fine arts g. either one unit of business/technology and two additional units in (a) through (f) above or earn three additional units, in (a) through (f) above. h. maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a four-point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year i. Obtain a composite score of 27 on the American College Testing (ACT) tests or an equivalent composite score of 1210 on the Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT)
The student who completes an intensive career-technical education curriculum in the high school must meet any nine of the following ten criteria: a. four units of English which may include one unit of applied communication b. three units of mathematics which should include algebra and geometry or a sequence of courses that contain equivalent content c. three units of science that develop concepts for physical, life and earth and space sciences d. three units of social studies e. two units of a foreign language; or two units of business/technology; or one unit of each f. three units in the student’s vocational or technical education curriculum g. two additional units in (a) through (f) above, or in fine arts h. maintain an overall high school grade point average if at least a 3.5 on a 4.0 point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year i. Complete a career passport that reflects achievement of the occupational benchmark established for the Ohio Vocational Competency Assessment or the equivalent j. obtain a composite score of 27 on the ACT tests or an equivalent composite score of 1210 on the Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT).
HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC DIPLOMA WITH HONORS FOR GRADUATING CLASSES OF 2011 AND BEYOND (Students need to fulfill 7 of the following 8 criteria)
English 4 units
Mathematics 4 units, including Algebra I,
Geometry, Algebra II or
equivalent and another higher
level course or a four-year
sequence of courses that
contain equivalent content
Science 4 units, including physics
and chemistry
Social Studies 4 units
Foreign Language 3 units, including at least
2 units in each language
studied
Fine Arts 1 unit
Career-Technical Not counted toward
requirements and may not
be used to meet requirements
Electives Not counted toward
requirements
Grade Point Average 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
ACT/SAT Score 27 ACT/1210 SAT
(excluding scores from the writing sections)
Additional Assessment None
Diploma with Honors requirements pre-suppose completion of all high school requirements in Ohio Revised Code including:
½ unit physical education
½ unit health
½ unit in American history
½ unit in government
SB 311 allows school districts to adopt a policy exempting students who participate in athletic, band or cheerleading for two full seasons from the physical education requirement.
CAREER-TECHNICAL DIPLOMA WITH HONORS FOR GRADUATING CLASSES OF 2011 AND BEYOND (students need to fulfill 7 of the following 8 criteria)
English 4 units
Mathematics 4 units, including Algebra I,
Geometry, Algebra II or
equivalent and another higher
level course or a four-year
sequence of courses that
contain equivalent content
Science 4 units, including physics
and chemistry
Social Studies 4 units
Foreign Language Not counted toward
requirements
Fine Arts Not counted toward
requirements
Career-Technical Now counted in
Electives
Electives 4 units of Career-Technical
minimum. Program must
lead to an industry recognized
credential, apprenticeship or be
part of an articulated career
pathway which can lead to post
secondary credit
Grade Point Average 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
ACT/SAT Score 27 ACT/1210 SAT
(excluding scores from the writing section)
Additional Assessment
Achieve the proficiency benchmark
Established for the appropriate
Career-Technical Competency
Assessment or the equivalent
Diploma with Honors requirements pre-suppose completion of all high school diploma requirements in Ohio Revised Code including:
½ unit physical education
½ unit health
½ unit in American history
½ unit in government
SB 311 allows school districts to adopt a policy exempting students who participate in athletics, band or cheerleading for two full seasons from the physical education requirement.
DISASTER ALERTS AND PLANS
In case of a fire or other emergency, the signal to evacuate the building will be a continuous sounding of the fire bell. Tornado alerts are indicated by a sharp blast from a horn.
There is an evacuation plan posted in each room which indicates procedures for evacuating the room. In case of an alarm, walk to the exit area designated for your room.
Silence must be maintained throughout the drill so that any verbal directions may be heard.
EVACUATION SITE
In the event of an emergency and students are evacuated from campus, parents should pick up students at
DRESS CODE
See U (Rules of Conduct)
DRIVING AND PARKING
Any student who is properly licensed may drive to and from
In order to obtain a parking permit, an Alexander Local School Student will required to do the following:
1. Fill out an application available in the high
school office.
2. Provide a copy of a valid drivers license.
3. Provide a copy of a current insurance policy.
4. Pay a parking permit fee of $5.00.
A. Parking
1. A student who wishes to use
the student parking lot must
register and pay a fee each
school year. The student will
be issued a parking sticker,
which must be displayed in the
front windshield of the
vehicle; this sticker may only
be used by the student to
whom it was issued.
2. Students may park their vehicles only in the student parking lot, which is located directly in front of the school.
3. No student may park in the staff parking area, which is located near the gym. Parking at the Vocational Agriculture ("Vo. Ag.") building and at the end of the gym is also not permitted.
4. All vehicles are to remain parked until all school buses have left unless school personnel directing traffic indicate otherwise.
B. Driving
All vehicles are to be operated in a safe and reasonable manner.
C. Penalties
School parking lots are provided as a convenience, and student driving and parking on school property are privileges that may be revoked at any time for good cause.
1. The first time a student is reported for driving in a manner that violates these rules, a warning may be issued. A second offense and any further offenses may result in a suspension of driving privileges.
2. Repeated violation of parking and registration regulations may result in impounding or towing the vehicle at owner's expense.
3. Any student who drives to school during the period of time that driving privileges are suspended may be found insubordinate and subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the school discipline policy.
D. Search of Vehicles
Dangerous and/or illegal items may not be kept in vehicles parked on school property. A building principal or other individual designated by the Superintendent may search a student's vehicle, while it is parked on school property, whenever there is reasonable individualized cause to believe that the search will uncover stolen property or an item or substance which may be illegal, dangerous to the student, to others, or to property, or which is disruptive of the safe and orderly environment of the school, or which otherwise constitutes evidence of a violation of law or of school rules.
Students must be accompanied by an Alexander employee to visit their automobile during the school day.
Students who choose to bring vehicles onto school property will be deemed to have consented to a search of their vehicles in the circumstances just described. When reasonably possible, students shall be informed and be permitted to be present during any search conducted. When there is reason to believe that there is imminent danger to the student, others, or property, the vehicle may be removed from school grounds.
Because the use of canines that sniff for drugs or other illicit substances does not constitute a search, canine sniffs may be employed at any time, regardless of whether there exists cause to believe that this procedure will reveal any of the items described above.
EARLY GRADUATION
Alexander is a chartered four (4) year high school. Completion of the required minimum
units of credits does not mean a student may graduate early. The purpose of the twenty-one credits is to guarantee a minimum education experience for students, while the purpose of
Students may apply for early graduation (i.e., before completion of the senior year) to the Alexander Local Board of Education through the high school principal. The timetable for applying to the building principal is as follows:
- At the end of the first semester of the senior year
- At the end of the junior year based on circumstances such as health/medical, college education opportunities, etc.
- Other cases will be heard on an individual basis.
If a student chooses to leave school at the end of the semester he/she will not be eligible for participation in extra-curricular activities such as athletics or clubs open only to the currently enrolled students. However, the student will be afforded other privileges granted to senior students including participation in the Junior/Senior Prom and Commencement Ceremonies. The student needs to petition the principal in writing to become formally released from the high school.
The decision to allow early graduation is at the discretion of the Board of Education of the
ENROLLMENT
A new student enrolling in the
1. The student's birth certificate (or substitute document as allowed by the Ohio Revised Code);
2. Health and immunization records;
3. Proof of residency;
4. Certified copies of legal custody documents, if any, allocating parental rights and responsibilities and designating a residential parent and legal custodian (certified copies of subsequent modifications of legal custody documents must also be provided).
5. Any records given the student by the school most recently attended.
A student who has been expelled from the schools of another district and whose period of expulsion has not yet expired may be denied admission to the Alexander Local Schools until the expiration of the expulsion period. Such student shall be offered the opportunity for a hearing before admittance is denied. No student who has been permanently excluded from public school attendance by the Superintendent of Public Instruction shall knowingly be admitted to the
FEES AND FINES
The Board of Education may enforce the payment of fees and charges imposed upon pupils for the loss, damage, or destruction of school apparatus, equipment, musical instruments, library materials, textbooks furnished without charges, and for damage to school buildings and property, including graffiti. These fees and fines may be enforced by withholding grades and credits of the pupils concerned until the student completes restitution.
FOOD & DRINK POLICY
- Consumption of food and drinks is permissible only in the cafeteria or a classroom with prior teacher approval.
- Consumption of food and drinks is never permitted in the halls.
- The only food and drinks permitted into school from home are sack lunches, drinks in clear containers or unopened canned drinks.
- No outside “restaurant” food may be ordered or brought in to school at lunchtime.
- Bottled water allowed in classroom with teacher permission.
GRADING POLICY
The grading scale established by
Percent Trad. Acc. AP/Honors
Point Weighted Weighted
Value Point Value Point Value
A 100-93 4.00 4.50 5.00
A- 92-90 3.67 4.17 4.67
B+ 89-87 3.34 3.84 4.34
B 86-83 3.00 3.50 4.00
B- 82-80 2.67 3.17 3.67
C+ 79-77 2.34 2.84 3.34
C 76-73 2.00 2.50 3.00
C- 72-70 1.67 2.17 2.67
D+ 69-67 1.34 1.84 2.34
D 66-60 1.00 1.50 2.00
F 59-00 0.00 0.00 0.00
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Policy On Required Units Of Credit
Twenty (21) units of credit and passing the
Ohio Graduation Test is required for
graduation from
12th graders. In addition to the 21 units
of credit, 9th, 10th and 11th grades must pass the
Policy On Course Requirements
The units of credit listed below represent a minimum number required for graduation. The minimum course requirements are as follows:
Class of 2009 Class of 2010
English ………. 4 units English………..4 units
Social Studies…3 units Social Studies…3 units
Science………..3 units Science………...3 units
Math…………..3 units Math…………...3 units
Health/PE……..1 unit Health/PE………1 unit
Electives……….7 units Electives……….7 units
(one of the 7 units must (one of the 7 units
be chosen from must be chosen from the business/technology, areas if business/
fine arts, and/or a technology, fine arts
foreign language.) and/or foreign language.)
TOTAL....21 units TOTAL…..21 units
Class of 2011 Class of 2012
English.…….....4 units English.....……..4 units
Social Studies...3 units Social Studies….3 units
Science………..3 units Science………...3 units
Math………….3 units Math……….…..3 units
Health/PE…….1 unit Health/PE……..1 unit
Electives………7 units Electives……….7 units
(one of the 7 electives must be chosen from the areas of business/technology, fine arts, and/or foreign language)
TOTAL........21 units TOTAL...........21 units
HARASSMENT
The Board of Education of the
Harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, handicap, age, or sex is prohibited. For this purpose, such harassment is defined as including slurs, unwelcome sexual advances and requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, non‑verbal, or physical conduct on one or more of the bases just stated, when:
1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's education
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for educational judgments affecting that individual.
- Such conduct has the purpose or the
effect of (a) unreasonably interfering with student's curricular, co‑curricular, or extra‑curricular performance, (b) bullying or otherwise creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment, or (c) otherwise unreasonably impacting upon a student's educational, opportunities.
Reporting and Investigation of Harassment
A person who has reason to believe that harassment has occurred should promptly report the incident to an administrator, the school counselor, or teacher: Subject to legal reporting obligations, considerations of safety, and any determination that is made to notify the parent or guardian of a minor student reporting that he or she has been so harassed, reasonable measures shall be taken to keep the identity of anyone so reporting confidential in relation to any person(s) alleged to have engaged in harassment unless authorization otherwise is given. Any such report will be investigated and, when merited and consistent with the maintenance of confidentiality as provided herein, disciplinary action will be taken in compliance with applicable law, any pertinent collective bargaining agreement, and Board policy and regulations.
HEAD LICE – NIT FREE POLICY
When a student is found through routine checks to have head lice parents will be notified and the student will be sent home with information on how to remedy the problem. Unfortunately, head lice are a common problem in schools much like a cold or the flu. Every effort is given in the prevention of the spread of head lice. No more than two days of absences will be excused for lice.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Acceptable medical records certifying that the pupil has had at least four doses of DPT vaccine, three doses of Polio vaccine, immunization against measles, rubella, and mumps, three Hepatitis B shots, and a Tine test must be on file in the school office. School officials are empowered to exclude children from school who do not meet these requirements.
Prior to entering the 7th grade, students must have documentation of two doses of live measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. The second dose at least 30 days after the first dose. This law will substantially reduce the pool of susceptible and therefore eliminate or limit outbreaks of these diseases in
INCOMPLETE GRADES
1. The teacher has a right to set reasonable requirements for his or her course.
2. As long as the student is made aware of the course requirements he/she is expected to meet them.
3. If the student does not meet the course requirements, the teacher will issue an incomplete (I) or an F.
4. If a student receives an incomplete (I), he/she will not get credit for the course until the work is completed.
5. Teachers may require that any or all assignments be completed and submitted in order to receive a letter
grade in spite of a student's total accumulation. The teacher will issue a grade of "I" (incomplete) until all required assignments are received. Work not received within (1) week will receive zero (0) and the students grades recalculated. This deadline may be extended at the discretion of the high school principal.
6. If the student ends the year with an incomplete, an explanation of the work to be made up is to be written, dated, and signed by the teacher and turned into the principal. The incomplete grade received at the end of the year must be made up within one (1) week following the end of the school year or the mark shall be converted to appropriate mark. * See # 5.
7. If a student receives an incomplete in a required course, the student will not be able to graduate without making up the incomplete.
8. If a student receives an incomplete in a non‑required course and does not have enough credits to graduate without the
course, the student will not be able to graduate without making up the incomplete.
9. If a student receives an incomplete in a non‑required course, but has enough credits to graduate without the incomplete course, the student will be permitted to graduate.
INTERNET POLICY
Students and parents are required to sign an Internet Policy before being permitted to access the Internet. The policy will require students never to give out the following information: home address, phone number, the name and location of the school, or a personal picture. Students will notify the teacher immediately if they come across any information that makes them feel uncomfortable. They will always treat people online with respect and will not reply to any messages that make them feel uncomfortable.
LOCK DOWN PROCEDURE
In the event that a lockdown becomes necessary, the principal or designee will announce that the school is in a lockdown. All classroom doors are to be locked and students must remain in their classrooms until a further announcement by the principal or designee...
LOCKER CARE
Lockers are the property of the board of education. Any locker issued to you is to be taken care of. Nothing is to be taped to the outside of your locker. There is to be no writing on lockers. Lockers must not be filled too full to close normally. No slamming of locker doors is permitted. You are responsible for any damage.
LOCKER SEARCHES
Student lockers are the property of the Board of Education. The Board of Education authorizes each principal or principal's designee to randomly search any pupil's locker and its contents at any time. Random searches may be conducted without regard to whether there is reasonable suspicion that any locker or its contents contain evidence of violation of a criminal statute or school rule.
LOST AND FOUND
All textbooks, articles, etc., found in the building, on the school bus or grounds should be taken to the office promptly. It is recommended that names be placed on as many articles as possible to help in restoring them to their owners. Items will be kept only 30 days before disposal. Each student is responsible for his/her personal property. Articles not claimed will be given to needy organizations.
MAKE‑UP WORK FOR EXCUSED ABSENCES
1. Students are permitted to receive credit for make up work for excused absences only.
2. Students will receive a day to make-up work for each day of excused absence they have.
3. Students must submit a legitimate excuse for absence within two (2) days following absence.
4. The student must assume responsibility for completing make‑up work.
5. In some subjects, because of the nature of the class, students may be required to complete all work assigned, whether or not the absence is excused. However, students will only receive credit for make‑up work when the absence is excused.
6. A zero (0) must be given for unexcused absences.
7. It is the students responsibility to obtain from teachers all make-up assignments upon their return to school.
MARITAL/PARENTAL POLICY
Pregnant Students
Educational opportunities are part of the value system of a free society. In our increasing complex and technological society education is a prerequisite for the opportunity to lead a full and productive life. Therefore, the Board affirms the right of a pregnant student and the father (if a student) to continue her/his participation in the public school program.
As soon as the pregnancy is medically confirmed, the Board recommends that the student consult with a member of the pupil personnel, counselors, or principal to plan her educational program.
With a staff member involved, the student may elect any of the following education plans or suggest alternatives:
1. She may remain in her present school program, with modifications as necessary, until the birth of her baby is imminent or until her physician states that continued participation would be detrimental to her health.
2. She may temporarily receive homebound instruction from the date of her pregnancy leave until her physician states that she is physically able to return to school.
3. She may enroll in an approved education program.
Every effort will be made to see that the education program of all students (both male and female) is disrupted as little as possible; that all students receive health and counseling services, as well as instruction; that they be encouraged to return to high school after delivery; and that each student is given every opportunity to complete high school.
MEDICATION POLICY
1. If at all possible, parents should arrange with their physician to have medication administration scheduled before and/or after school so that school district personnel are not required to administer said medication.
2. When medication must be administered at school, parents should, if possible, make arrangements to visit the school to administer the medication to their children.
3. In the event paragraphs (1) and (2) of this policy cannot be followed, the Board of Education authorizes the health aide to assist in dispensing medication during the regular school day (including-over the-counter medication) which has been prescribed by a physician. The Health Aide will supervise and handle the storing and dispensing of medication.
4. Assistance in dispensing medication must be requested by a parent/guardian and physician. The request for assistance in dispensing medication must be in writing on the Authorization for Administration of Medication Form approved by the Board of Education. This form must be completely filled out and must include the signatures of both the prescribing physician and at least one custodial parent or legal guardian of the student. This form may be obtained from the office.
5. Where medication is presented to school personnel by a student or parent/guardian for dispensing without the appropriate form, the health aide(s) shall accept custody of the medication, and the following procedures shall be used:
a) The Health Aide shall inform the parent/guardian about the proper procedure for requesting assistance in dispensing medication.
b) The Health Aide shall contact the office of the prescribing physician to verify the request and the drug to be administered and advise that an appropriate form will be transmitted to physician for completion and signature.
c) Upon verifying that both parent/guardian and the physician authorize the request for assistance, and upon receipt of the appropriate form, the Health Aide may dispense the medication.
6. The Health Aide authorized to administer medication shall receive a copy of the Authorization for Administration of Medication Form signed by the parent/guardian and physician.
7. The medication must be received by the
Health Aide authorized to administer the medication in the container in which it was dispensed by the prescribing physician or other licensed professional.
8. The Health Aide will establish a location in each school building for the storage of medication to be administered. All such medications shall be stored in that location in a locked storage place. Medication that requires refrigeration should be kept in a refrigerator in a place not commonly used by students.
9. A month’s supply of medication may be sent to the school at one time. The health aide may dispose of any unused medication fourteen (14) days after the termination of administration of medication if attempts to return the unused medication to the parent/guardian have failed. The principal and at least one other school staff member will witness the disposal and both shall sign a dated statement attesting to the disposal.
10. The parent/guardian must submit a revised statement signed by physician who prescribed the medication if any of the information provided by the physician changes.
11. No person who has been authorized by the Board of Education to administer medication and who has a copy of the most recent Authorized Form which was to him/her prior to administering the medication will be liable in civil damages for administering or failing to administer the medication, unless such person acts in a manner that constitutes gross negligence or wanton or reckless misconduct.
12. Board policy and regulations regarding the administration and dispensation of medication may be changed, modified, or revised by action of the Board.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
When the National Honor Society was founded in 1921, the hope was to create an organization that would recognize and foster academic achievement while developing other characteristics essential to citizens in a democracy. Scholarship, character, service, leadership, and citizenship are the ideals that remain as relevant today as they were in 1921.
Through NHS chapter service activities, members maintain and extend the qualities that won them selection. Membership is thus both an honor and an obligation.
Membership in the Alexander chapter of the NHS is attained through the following process:
1. Students must have been enrolled at
complete semester.
2. Students must have a 3.5 GPA on a
4.0 grading scale.
3. Students must complete and return
the Candidate Packet by the
established date.
4. Each student is evaluated, by the
faculty, on leadership, citizenship
service, and character.
5. The faculty council reviews the
faculty tallies and the student’s
candidate packet. The committee
members score the total evaluation
to determine the new members. It
is the Faculty Council that is
responsible for the final selection of
all members.
Members who do not maintain the standards for selection are subject to dismissal according to the by‑laws of the Alexander Chapter of NHS.
A person of leadership skills exhibits initiative, executive ability, and positive influence.
Service/citizenship activities are found by participation in school organizations, aid opportunities at school, and service to the community.
Qualities that reflect character include the following: Dependability, industry, honesty and positive personality traits.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
We believe that parent-teacher conferences are very important in helping to better understand and meet the needs of our students. 1st and 2nd semester Parent-Teacher Conference Days are held yearly and parents are urged to attend.
Teachers and parents sometimes foresee a need for additional conferences throughout the year. These are initiated by either party and held at mutually convenient times. Conferences are not to occur when teachers are giving classroom instruction.
Please contact your child's teacher if you would like to schedule a conference.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The school will honor notes from parents for students to be excused from gym for a very limited period; normally, not to exceed one day. If for some reason a student cannot participate in physical education for any continued length of time, a note from a family physician must be presented to the teacher.
SB 311 allows students who participate in
POST SECONDARY OPTIONS PROGRAM
Students may enroll part‑time at a college/university and earn college and high school graduation credit through successful completion of college courses.
To be eligible to participate, students need to be accepted by the college/university and participate in a Student/Parent counseling session. Enrollment forms are available in the guidance office. Athletes should consult with Athletic Director to determine eligibility.
PROTECTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
The
1. Extra money should not be brought to school.
2. Combination locks should NOT be set to open with only the last number of the combination.
3. Valuable items should not be stored in lockers or left unattended.
4. Billfolds and purses should be attended to at all times.
REPEATING CLASSES
Taking the same course more than once is strongly discouraged. Students wishing to repeat a course they have already passed must demonstrate the need to the principal. The high school principal will make the decision whether a student can repeat a course already passed. A student permitted to repeat a course already passed would only receive credit for taking the course one time.
REPORT CARDS AND INTERIM REPORTS
Report cards are issued at the end of each nine-week grading period.
Interim reports are sent to parents during the third to sixth week of the nine-week grading period.
SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS (Sponsored & Non‑sponsored)
The administration has the right to censor school publications. Publications that violate the student conduct code are prohibited.
SECURITY
SIGN-OUT PROCEDURES
Students may be released from school on an emergency basis if parents request the release. However, unless an emergency can be established, written excuses must be submitted in advance (e.g. a student with a dental appointment should notify the school one day prior to the appointment). A NOTE MUST, IN ALL CASES, BE SUBMITTED WITHIN TWO DAYS OF THE STUDENT'S RETURN TO SCHOOL.
Before a student leaves school property, he or she MUST sign out in the main office in the following manner: (Parents must keep in mind Alexander's Attendance Policy in regards to credit for each class.)
1. The student must present a written note signed by parent or guardian with a specific reason or reasons for leaving school. Even though the student may be 18 years of age, this note is still needed. This note must be presented to the office before school begins.
2. The parent or guardian may come to school and sign the student out.
3. The parent or guardian may be phoned and asked to clarify a note in advance of any student checking out. The parent or guardian may phone the school in order to sign a student out and have the student present a note as stated in the emergency sign out procedure.
4. The student must report to the office and sign out immediately before leaving the school. Students should not sign out until it is necessary to leave school. (There must be no loitering at school after signing out.)
5. Students and parents must be very conscious of our attendance policy regarding credit.
MILITARY/STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION
Student information including parents’ names, address, phone number, date of birth, grade level, extracurricular participation, achievement awards or honors is public information. Parents that wish school officials not to release directory information should send a signed statement to the school.
Student directory information is to be shared with military recruiters upon request unless parents request that our guidance office not share this information.
STUDENT USE OF THE OFFICE
All business by students that requires coming to the office is to be taken care of immediately upon arrival to school in the morning.
The school phone is primarily for school business only. There are many times when students wish to call home for various reasons that are often unnecessary. Phone use is for emergencies only. A public phone is provided for student use when necessary.
Message and deliveries from home should be left in the office. Students will be called out of class only in an emergency.
SUMMER COURSES CREDIT
Post Secondary:
Students may receive high school credit for high school or college level courses taken during the summer. It is the student’s responsibility to send copies of transcripts from these courses to the guidance counselor in order to receive credit. No credit will be given until all fees are paid.
Summer School:
Students may receive high school credit for high school courses taken during the summer. It is the student’s responsibility to send copies of transcripts from these courses to the guidance counselor in order to receive credit. No credit will be given until al fees are paid.
Course work may be taken for remediation only. A student must attempt the course prior to taking it via summer school, unless there are extenuating circumstances. A student may earn no more than four (4) credits toward a diploma by completing summer school. A student may earn no more than two (2) credits through summer school during one (1) academic year.
TALENTED AND GIFTED PROGRAM
The Alexander Local Board of Education ensures equal opportunity and access to fair equitable assessment in four areas of giftedness:
Superior Cognitive, Specific Academic, Creative Thinking, and Visual or Performing Arts.
The
The Ohio Department of Education has approved the district’s policy and plan for the identification of gifted students. The document may be viewed in its entirety upon request. Questions or concerns regarding gifted programming and assessment should be directed to the coordinator of talented and gifted education.
TEXTBOOKS
The school furnishes books to all students. This is done with the hope that this major investment will be properly safeguarded. Reasonable damage is expected as a result of daily use. UNREASONABLE DAMAGE TO TEXTBOOKS WILL RESULT IN FINES.
Lost textbooks must be paid for and replaced. The fines for these must be paid to the office at the time of damage or loss.
TRI‑COUNTY
Students have the option of attending
At Tri-County, students are involved in intensive training in a selected program. Upon graduation, students enter the skilled work force, continue their education if desired, or enlist in the military. All junior and senior academic courses are required for graduation from
To be accepted to
Students who attend Tri-County and the return to Alexander will still have to meet the twenty-one (21) credits and course requirements.
PROGRAM OF STUDY
Administrative Office Professional
Ag/Industrial Mechanics
Auto Collision Technology
Auto Service Technology
Carpentry
Cosmetology
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Early Childhood Education
Electrical Trades
Fashion Retail & Business Management
Landscaping
Medical Occupations
Restaurants & Resorts
College Tech Prep (CTP) is a program that offers three areas of study. Upon successful completion of a CTP program, students earn a full tuition scholarship to
COLLEGE TECH PREP PROGRAMS
Drafting/CAD
Health Technologies
VACATIONS
Any student who takes a family vacation during the school year, and misses days of school, must make arrangements with all of their teachers prior to their vacation to get all of their work. Students failing to do this may get a “0" on the work they fail to get.
VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN REQUIREMENTS
Students are selected for the distinctions of valedictorian/salutatorian based on grade-point average ranking on a 5.0 scale.
VISITORS
Students are not allowed to bring visitors to school. Parents are always welcome, but must request the opportunity to visit a classroom through the building principal. Twenty-four (24) hours notice must be given.
All visitors are to report to the office to receive permission to visit classes or be in the building.
WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES
A student who withdraws from the District during the school year must pick up a withdrawal form from the guidance office at the beginning of his/her last day at school. Parent/guardian must provide the guidance office with information as to the new school the student will be attending. If a student of compulsory school age withdraws for a reason other than change of residence and is not enrolled in and attending an approved program, the superintendent shall notify the registrar of motor vehicles and the juvenile judge in accordance with Section 3321.13 of the Ohio Revised Code. Upon request from the new school and if all books have been turned in and charges and fees paid, records will be released.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The items in this Code are applicable to all students when properly under the authority of school personnel during a school activity, function, or event whether on property owned, rented, or maintained by the Alexander Board of Education or property owned, rented or maintained by another party. Additionally, students may be disciplined for misconduct in violation of Board policy or school rules that occurs off school property but that is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on school property or actions, regardless of where they occur, that are directed at an Alexander Local school official or employee, or the property of such school official or employee.
The Board of Education of the
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Each student has a right to know what is expected of him or her and the consequences of violating school rules. Each student also has the responsibility to behave in a way that will not interfere with the rights of others.
School authorities will treat each student fairly by following the due process procedures outlined in Board policy, with each discipline situation being considered on an individual basis, taking all available facts into consideration.
Rules of Conduct
A. Abuse of Property: A student shall not cause, attempt to cause or engage in any activity that causes damage or defacement (graffiti) to any school or private property, including but not limited to buildings, grounds, equipment, materials, computers or other technology and books. A student who violates and/or the student’s parent will be expected to repair, replace, or pay for the damaged property or otherwise make full restitution, in addition to any other appropriate disciplinary action.
B. Book bags: These may be brought to
C. Bus Conduct: In addition to those rules specifically concerning behavior on school buses, students shall conform to all of the rules contained in this Code of Conduct while waiting for and while on the school buses. Student behavior as it relates to school buses has been defined by the Alexander Board of Education and is posted with other procedures.
D. Cafeteria: Students are to return lunch plates, silverware, paper and milk cartons to the kitchen after eating. Appropriate behavior is expected.
E. Card Playing: Card playing is permitted at
as long as the games involve no gambling or inappropriate activities. This includes computer card games.
F. Cheating: A student shall not violate rules dishonestly or get something from another by dishonesty or deception. A student should not transmit unauthorized academic information via electronic devices.
G. Chewing Gum: No student shall chew gum or have gum in the classroom, in the building, or on the school grounds.
H. Computers: Computer use at
I. Dangerous Weapons and Instruments: A student shall not possess, handle, transmit, conceal, or use any object or a facsimile of any object which might be considered to be a dangerous weapon or instrument of violence, including but not limited to firearms, knives, chains, explosives, and harmful chemicals or other materials, nor shall a student threaten to do any of the foregoing or incite another to do any of the foregoing. Any jewelry considered dangerous such as spikes and collars are also prohibited. (Note:) A student who violates this section by possessing a knife or firearm may be subject to expulsion for one calendar year and referral to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and Juvenile Judge for suspension of their instruction permit or driver’s license.
J. Disruption of School/Class: A student shall not cause or attempt to cause a disruption of any lawful mission, process, or function of the school, or disturb the peaceful climate of the school by the use of noise, coercion, threat, fear, rumor, intimidation, passive resistance, demonstration, harassment, sexual conduct, force or violence, nor shall he/she urge another student to engage in such conduct.
K. Electronic devices: Electronic communication devices are not permitted at school. Students are permitted to have pagers and cell phones at school, but they must be turned off and not used in any way during the school day from
L. Extortion: A student shall not intimidate any person on school property (including on buses or at any school sponsored activity).
M. False Alarms: A student shall not falsely report any emergency, including fire and/or bomb threats, or misuse the school’s fire alarm system in any manner.
N. Fighting: Students are not to use force or threats or physical violence to intimidate, show their dislike for, or gain favors from other students. Further, students shall not agitate or provoke disagreements or fights between other persons or directly with other persons. If it can be clearly established that a person was acting in self-defense, and had no part in agitating or provoking the fight by previous verbal comment or actions, that person may receive a lesser or no penalty, depending upon the circumstances.
O. Forgery and false information: A student shall not falsely represent or attempt to falsely represent any information, verbally or in writing, to be used by or given to school officials, falsely use the name or identity of another person, or falsify times, dates, grades, addresses or any other data on school forms or correspondence directed to or from the school. Falsely reporting incidents, making false accusations, or giving false testimony to school personnel to keep one’s self out of trouble or to affect the welfare of others or to cover up for others is forbidden. There shall be no hacking into unauthorized computers, sites, or information databases.
P. Gambling: Games or activities in which students bet or wager money or other valuables, or items to be later exchanged for money or valuables, are not permitted on school property or at school functions. The exception to this is legally sanctioned raffles for the purpose of raising funds for the benefit of students.
Q. Gang-Related Conduct: A gang is defined as any non-school sponsored or recognized group whose purpose or practice include the commission of illegal acts, violation of school rules, or other actions that threaten the safety of others. Students are not permitted to recruit members of gangs, congregate with gangs, or identify themselves with gangs in any manner. Gang insignia, including but not limited to the following, may not be worn or displayed by students: jackets, headbands, shirts, bandannas, hats, jewelry, socks or shoelaces, hand signals, tattoos or other materials imprinted on the body.
R. Harassment:
The Board of Education of Alexander Local School District is committed to the creation and maintenance of learning and working environment in which all persons who participate in school programs and activities can do so in an atmosphere free from all forms of prohibited harassment. Harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, handicap, age, or sex is prohibited. For this purpose, such harassment is defined as including slurs, unwelcome sexual advances and requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct on one or more of the basis just stated, when:
1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for educational judgments affecting that individual.
3. Such conduct has the purpose or the effect of (a) unreasonably interfering with student’s curricular, co-curricular, or extra-curricular performance, (b) creating an intimidating hostile, or offensive educational environment, or (c) otherwise unreasonably impacting upon a student’s educational opportunities.
Reporting and Investigation of Harassment:
A person who has reason to believe that harassment has occurred should promptly report the incident to an administrator, the school counselor, or teacher. Subject to legal reporting obligations, considerations of safety, and any determination that is made to notify the parent or guardian of a minor student reporting that he or she has been so harassed, reasonable measures shall be taken to keep the identity of anyone so reporting confidential in relation to any person(s) alleged to have engaged in harassment unless authorization otherwise is given. Any such report will be investigated and, when merited and consistent with the maintenance of confidentiality as provided herein, disciplinary action will be taken in compliance with applicable law, and Board policy and regulations.
S. Hazing / Bullying: Hazing means doing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of intimidation or harassment to any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person. Bullying is an intentional written, verbal or physical act that a student has exhibited toward another particular student more than once. The behavior causes both mental or physical harm to the other student and is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other studens.
Permission, consent or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing and/or bullying does not lessen the prohibition contained in this policy.
Prohibited activities of any type, including those activities engaged in via computer and/or electronic communications devices, are inconsistent with the educational process and are prohibited at all times. No administrator, teacher or other employee of the District shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate any hazing and/or bullying activities. No students, including leaders of student organizations, are permitted to plan, encourage or engage in any hazing and/or bullying.
Administrators, teachers and all other District employees are particularly alert to possible conditions, circumstances or events that might include hazing and/or bullying. If hazing and/or bullying or planned hazing and/or bullying is discovered, involved students are informed by the discovering District employee of the prohibition contained in this policy and are required to end all hazing and/or bullying activities immediately. All hazing and/or bullying incidents are reported immediately to the Superintendent and appropriate discipline is administered.
T. Horseplay: Immature acts, mischief or lack of self-control which may result in self-injury, injury to others, or damage to property or disruption of the educational process, are not condoned. Examples of horseplay include, but are not limited to, pushing, shoving, tripping, excessive teasing, throwing an object, chasing one another and stacking lockers.
U. Inappropriate Dress: Student dress and grooming should be such that it does not detract from the educational process or have a detrimental effect on the governance and discipline of the school. Therefore, students are expected to meet reasonable standards in their dress and grooming. The following items of clothing are prohibited:
Hats or other head coverings; sun glasses; tank tops, tops with spaghetti straps, or tops with bare midriff, large arm hole tops unless another top is worn underneath, or any that allow undergarments to show; transparent clothing; sagging pants below the hip bone; exercise wear such as spandex or lycra; clothing that displays reference to tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs or other illegal items; clothing that depicts violence or is associated with gang activity; clothing that contain sexual innuendo; heavy chains worn around the neck, wrist, or waist; or other clothing deemed inappropriate by the administration will not be permitted. Skirts and dresses shall be no shorter than mid‑thigh (half way between the hip bone and middle of the knee). The length of shorts shall be no shorter than mid‑thigh. Inappropriate shorts include (but are not limited to) boxer shorts, spandex ‑lycra, and torn shorts.
Any other clothing deemed inappropriate by the administration will not be permitted.
Students who violate the dress code will not be permitted to attend class until they are dressed in an acceptable manner. In addition, violators may face disciplinary action.
V. Insubordination: Students are expected to demonstrate a positive attitude in carrying out reasonable rules or directions given by school personnel. Any student who fails to comply with the reasonable request of school personnel or demonstrates a defiant attitude toward staff may be found insubordinate.
W. Leaving School Property Without Permission: Students may not leave school property during regular school hours unless the office has been properly notified by parents or guardians that the student has permission to leave and the student has properly checked out through the school office. All students arriving late or returning to school must immediately check in through the office and report directly to their assigned classes.
X. Loitering, Littering or Causing a Disturbance: Students shall not loiter, litter, or cause a disturbance on public or private property adjacent to, across from or in close proximity to a school site, while either coming to and from school or school activities, or during the school day, or during school activities.
Y. Cleats: No student shall wear cleats inside the school building.
Z. Persistent Minor Disturbances: Any act which affects the climate of the school or instruction and which the student has been given verbal warning to correct, may result in disciplinary action.
AA. Physical Display of Affection: Students may not engage in any physical display of affection, including, but not limited to, kissing, hugging, embracing, or other sexual contact.
BB. Plagiarism: A student shall not pass off as one's own the ideas or words of another or from an existing source.
CC. Possession, Use or Threatened Use of Fireworks, Explosives, or Other Such Instruments: A student shall not possess, use, or threaten to use fireworks, explosives, biological or chemical agents or other similar instruments capable of inflicting bodily injury or disrupting the operation of the schools. This includes lighters and matches.
DD. Profane, Indecent, Obscene or Abusive Language: A student shall not use any language, either written or verbal, directed toward school personnel or students which may be considered profane, indecent, obscene, vile, or abusive. This shall include use of obscene gestures, pictures, signs or publications and use of the computer. Language that is insulting, intimidating, inciting, threatening, or that shows contempt for another is not an acceptable form of behavior.
EE. Repeated Violations: A student shall not repeatedly violate the code or fail to comply with the directions of teachers, aides, principals, or any other authorized school personnel.
FF. Restrooms: Students shall not loiter in the restrooms.
GG. Substances-Alcohol and Drugs: The use and possession of illicit drugs and alcohol is wrong and harmful. A student shall not possess (includes, but is not limited to , retention on the student’s person or possession in purses, wallets, lockers, desks, vehicles, etc.), use, conceal, sell or offer to sell, supply or offer to supply, or use, any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, tranquilizer, steroid , prescription drug, alcoholic beverage, intoxicant, mood altering chemical of any kind, drug paraphernalia, other illegal drugs, or counterfeit (look-alike) drugs while on or in and around school property, just prior to or during school or any school activity. Students cannot wear clothing to school with references to supporting the use, purchase or distribution of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs.
1. “Under the influence” is defined as manifesting signs of drug or alcohol misuse such as, but not limited to, staggering, reddened eyes, odor of alcohol or drugs, nervousness, restless, falling asleep in class, memory loss, abusive language, or any other behavior not normal for the particular student.
2. Use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription from a licensed physician shall not be considered a violation of this rule so long as the student and parent comply with Board Policy regarding the administration of medication to students. Unless authorized by Board Policy and applicable law, students may not possess or self administer any prescription medication and may not distribute over the counter or prescription medication to other students.
3. Alcoholic beverages means intoxicating liquor, alcoholic wine, beer, mixed beverages, malt liquor and malt beverages as defined in Section 4301.01 of the Ohio Revised Code. The term alcoholic beverage means any liquid substance, used as a beverage, or capable of being used as a beverage, which contains alcohol in any proportion or percentage.
A student who violates this rule is subject to all of the disciplinary provisions of this Code of Conduct and additionally may be referred to law enforcement officials for prosecution.
The Alexander Board of Education supports providing assistance to students who have an admitted or potential problem with tobacco, alcohol or other drugs, and will provide information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs that are available to students. Assistance may be through educational meetings, school-sponsored counseling or support groups or referral to professionals outside of, but approved by
HH. Theft: A student shall not steal, attempt to steal, encourage others to steal, be associated with others while they steal, or be in possession of stolen property. This includes computer copyright infringement and unauthorized copying of computer materials. It also includes
unauthorized use of someone else’s property.
II. Tobacco Products: A student shall not bring, possess, distribute or offer to distribute, smoke, burn or use tobacco products or look-alike tobacco products in any form anywhere on or about school property or at school sponsored activities. Students shall not wear any clothing that promotes tobacco products. The Ohio Revised Code on juvenile tobacco use will be enforced.
JJ. Truancy: A student shall not be absent from school , including study hall, or any other assigned activity for class for part or all of a day without school authorization.
KK. Unauthorized Area: A student shall not leave or be outside of school property or assigned area prior to specified dismissal time without permission from his/her parents and school officials.
LL. Unauthorized Throwing: Unauthorized throwing of any object including, but not limited to snowballs is not permitted.
MM. Unauthorized touching, disruptions, fighting, or hitting: A student shall not cause or threaten to cause physical injury or behave in such a way that could cause any person to be put in fear of his or her personal safety or that could cause physical injury to any person. A student who violates this rule is subject to all of the disciplinary provisions of this Code of Conduct and additionally may be referred to law enforcement officials for prosecution.
NN. Unauthorized use of fire: A student shall not ignite, attempt to ignite, or cause to be ignited any material without authorization...
OO. Violations of Law: Students shall not violate any law or ordinance not otherwise mentioned in the Code while under the authority of the school.
PP. Conduct At Athletic Events Or Assemblies
Students are expected to exhibit proper behavior at both home and away games. This includes no fighting, no booing or heckling, no throwing or dropping of refuse, no abusive language, and no loitering in the immediate area before or after a game. All provisions of the Student Code of Conduct, including those prohibiting the use or possession of drugs, alcohol and tobacco, apply to each student ‑‑ whether spectator or athlete ‑‑ present at an athletic event in which the school is involved, regardless of the site of the event.
QQ. Other Acts of interference or endangerment: No student shall engage in any conduct that in any way interferes with the good order, discipline, or educational purpose of the school or that endangers any person or property, including immoral acts.
RR. When a teacher reports a personal assault by a student, that student will be immediately removed from the teachers’ room. The student will not be permitted to return to the classroom until a meeting is held with the parent(s), principal, and teacher, and a plan has been developed.
When a teacher reports a second personal assault by the same student, the child will be immediately removed from the teacher’s room and an assessment will be conducted by the school psychologist. If the child is disabled or
suspected of having a disability, a team meeting will be held to conduct a manifestation determination. A decision will be made as to whether the child will return to the classroom or alternate placement
Students may be prosecuted under Ohio Revised Code 3109.09 for assault on students, teachers, or other adults. Students convicted of a felony may be expelled from school and parents many be held liable for damages to property or injury.
Disciplinary Sanctions
1. Lunch Detention students will get their lunch and then report to assigned room.
2. After School Detention is held after school. Parents are responsible for insuring that their children have a way home after detention.
Students serving detention are expected to bring study materials to detention with them and it will be a quiet study period.
A. You will receive a copy of the Discipline Form with a description of your misbehavior and the day you will serve detention.
B. If a student does not serve the assigned detention, the detention will be changed to suspension or Saturday school.
C. If you cannot pick up your child on the date scheduled, you must call and talk to the principal so that an alternative date may be set. Do not send notes or messages with your child.
3. Disciplinary removal is an action less severe than suspension, expulsion, or emergency removal and is defined as the denial of permission to attend classes for a period of less than one school day, or denial of permission to participate in an extracurricular activity with which the student has been involved.
4. In-School Intervention is the removal of a student from his/her regularly scheduled classes for not more than ten (10) consecutive days. Students will be under the supervision of a certified teacher during in-school intervention and will do school assignments. In-school intervention will be assigned at the discretion of the administration, following an informal meeting at which the student may contest the grounds for the in-school intervention.
5. Saturday school is an alternative to suspension wherein the students will continue to attend their regular classes but are allowed to attend Saturday school instead of being suspended.
If the student fails to report to Saturday school, suspension or other appropriate action will proceed. The focus of Saturday school will be counseling, remediation, and academic and behavioral progress.
6. Suspension is defined as the denial to a student for a period of at least one (1) but not more than ten (10) school days of permission to attend school and to take part in any school function. If at the time a suspension is imposed there are fewer than ten school days remaining in the school year in which the incident that gives rise to the suspension takes place, the superintendent may apply any remaining part or all of the period of the suspension to the following school year.
The following steps will be used when suspending a student:
A. Written notice of intention to suspend will be given to the student stating the reasons for the intended suspension.
B. The student will be allowed to challenge the reason for the intended suspension or otherwise explain his/her actions at an informal hearing before the Principal, Assistant Principal, Superintendent, or Superintendent’s designee. This informal hearing may occur immediately.
C. If the outcome of the informal hearing is suspension, the student, the student’s parent, guardian or custodian, and the Treasurer of the Board of Education will be notified of the suspension in writing by the principal or Superintendent within one school day of the suspension. The notice will include the reason for the suspension, notice of possible permanent exclusion, where applicable, and information regarding the appeal rights of the student, parent, guardian or custodian. If the student, parent, guardian or custodian appeal the suspension, the imposition of the penalty shall not be stayed pending the appeal. Students shall serve their suspensions immediately. If the suspension is overturned, the student will be given the opportunity to make up assignments and tests missed while the student was suspended.
D. During the period of suspension, the student may not attend school, be on the school property, or participate in any extracurricular activities. No credit will be given for any work or tests missed during this time.
E. In conjunction with, or in place of suspension, the Superintendent may require a student to perform community service within the school or in the larger community, during school or non-school hours. Such requirement may extend beyond the end of the school year in lieu of applying the suspension into the following school year. Use of this community service option and any related reporting by, or monitoring of, students performing such community service shall be determined by the Superintendent, in his or her sole discretion.
F. The student has the right to appeal the decision and have a hearing before the Board of Education or its designee, and to be represented in the appeal by a representative of his choosing. The student may request that any decision before the Board of Education be held in executive session. Any action by the Board shall be taken at a public meeting. If the student wishes to appeal the suspension, the principal must be notified in writing ten (10) calendar days from the date of the notice of suspension.
The imposition of the penalty shall not be stayed pending the appeal.
7. Emergency Removal is defined as the removal of a student whose presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process taking place either within a classroom or elsewhere on the school premises. The following procedure will be used to carry out the emergency removal of a student:
A) The Superintendent, principal or
assistant principal may remove the
pupil from curricular activities or from
the school premises.
B) A teacher may remove the pupil from curricular or extracurricular activities under his/her supervision. As soon as practical after removal the teacher will provide the principal with written reasons for the removal.
C) Written notice of a hearing and of the reason for the removal will be given as soon as practicable prior to the hearing, and the hearing will be held within three school days from the time the removal is ordered. The hearing will be conducted as provided in this Code for proposed suspensions, unless it is probable that the student may be subject to expulsion in which case the hearing will comply with the procedures for hearings in connection with proposed expulsions except that the hearing shall be held within three school days. The person who caused the removal shall be present at the hearing.
Note: Notice and a hearing will not be provided in connection with a removal that occurs pursuant to normal disciplinary procedures, if it is for a period of less than one school day, and involves a student who is not subject to further suspension or expulsion.
8. Alternative Education Program
Alternative School is an option in lieu of suspension and/or expulsion. Through an agreement with the
basis, depending on the circumstances under which it was determined to be an appropriate placement. The following criteria may apply:
1. Special services not offered in the
2. Attending classes at this site instead of being suspended or expelled from school (allows a student to continue school work to earn credit).
9. Expulsion is defined as the exclusion of a student of permission to attend school and to take part in any school function for a period exceeding ten (10) school days but not exceeding the greater of eighty (80) school days, or 1 calendar year when authorized by law. If at the time an expulsion is imposed there are fewer school days remaining in the school year than the expulsion period, the superintendent may apply any remaining part or all of the period of the expulsion to the following school year. Expulsions may exceed eighty (80) days when imposed for a violation of the district's policies concerning firearms, knives, violent acts or bomb threats or when otherwise authorized by the Ohio Revised Code.
The following procedures will be used when expelling a student:
A. Notice of intention to expel will be given to the student and parent or guardian by the superintendent. The notice will include the reasons for the intended expulsion, the time and place of the hearing on the intended expulsion, the right of the student and the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian to appear at the hearing to contest the proposed expulsion, where applicable.
B. A hearing will be held no less than three and no more than five school days after the notice is given. At the hearing, the student and the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian may appear in person before the Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee to contest the proposed expulsion.
C. If the outcome of the informal hearing is expulsion, the student, the student’s parent, guardian or custodian, and the Treasurer of the Board of Education will be notified in writing by principal or Superintendent within one school day of the expulsion. The notice will include the reason for the expulsion, and, where applicable, notification of the possibility of permanent expulsion. The notice also will describe the rights of the student and the student’s parent, guardian or custodian to request a hearing before the Board or designee to appeal the expulsion and to request that any hearing be before the Board be held in executive session.
D. If an expulsion is for more than twenty school days or extends into the next school semester or year, the notice sent to the student and to the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian, additionally shall include information regarding services or programs offered by public or private agencies that work toward improving those aspects of the pupil’s attitudes and behavior that contributed to the incident that gave rise to the pupil’s expulsion. The information shall include names, addresses, and phone numbers of the appropriate public and private agencies.
E. During the period of expulsion, and any appeal, the student may not attend school, be on school property, or participate in any extracurricular activities. In its discretion, the Board of Education may, but is not required to, provide education services to the student in an alternative setting. No credit will be given for any work or tests missed during the expulsion.
F. In conjunction with or in place of expulsion, the superintendent may require a student to perform community service within the school or in the larger community, during school or non-school hours. Such requirement may extend beyond the end of the school year in lieu of applying the expulsion into the following school year. Use of this community service option and any related reporting by or monitoring of students performing such community service shall be determined by the Superintendent, in his or her sole discretion.
G. The student has the right to appeal the decision to the Board of Education or its designee, to be granted a hearing before the Board of Education or its designee in order to be heard against such expulsion, and to represented in the appeal by a representative of his choosing. The student may request that any hearing before the Board of Education or in executive session. If the student wishes to appeal the expulsion, the Superintendent must be notified in writing ten (10) calendar days from the date of expulsion notice By majority vote of the Board in public session or by action of the designee, the Board may affirm the expulsion, reinstate the pupil or otherwise alter the order of expulsion. The Board or its designee shall make a verbatim record of its hearing. The imposition of the penalty shall not be stayed pending the appeal.
10. Expulsion related to firearms, knives, bomb threats and violent acts. Using the expulsion procedures outlined above, a student may be expelled for an increased period of time as follows:
Firearms:
A student who brings a firearm to a school operated by the Board of Education or onto any property owned or controlled by the Board of Education shall be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year.
A student who brings a firearm to an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity, regardless of the location, may be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year. A student who possesses a firearm at a school; on any other property owned or controlled by the Board of Education; or, regardless of the location, at an interscholastic competition, extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity, which firearm was initially brought to school, on property, or to the competition, event, program or activity by another person may be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year.
As used herein, “firearm” shall be defined as in 18 U.S.C section 921 and shall include, but not to be limited to, any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant; the frame or receiver of any such weapon; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or any destructive device as defined in 18 U.S.C. section 921 et seq. The definition of destructive device includes, but is not limited to, (1) any explosive, incendiary or poisonous gas including, but not limited to, a bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or a device similar to any of the devices described herein or (2) any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device described herein and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled.
Knives:
A student who brings a knife to a school operated by the Board of Education; onto any property owned or controlled by the Board of Education or regardless of the location, to an interscholastic competition, extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity may be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year. A student who possesses a knife at a school; on any other property owned or controlled by the Board of Education; or regardless of the location, at an interscholastic competition, extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity, which knife was initially brought to school, on property, or to the competition, event, program or activity by another person may be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year.
As used herein, “knife” shall be defined as any instrument that possesses a pointed or sharp-edged blade of metal or other rigid material and that is designed or can be used for cutting, slicing, or stabbing; this definition shall include, but is not limited to, straight razors, utility knives, box cutters, ice picks, pocket knives, switchblades, and buck knives.
Acts That Result In Serious Harm to Persons or Property
A student who commits an act that is a criminal offense when committed by an adult and that results in serious physical harm to persons or property, as defined in ORC 2901.01, while the student is at school; is on any other property owned or controlled by the Board of Education, or is at an interscholastic competition, extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity may be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year.
Bomb Threats
A student who makes a bomb threat to a school building or to any premises at which a school activity is occurring at the time of the threat may be expelled from school by the Superintendent for one calendar year.
Nothing in this provision is intended to, nor shall it, preclude the Superintendent from suspending, expelling, or removing a student in accordance with Ohio law for otherwise possessing, transmitting, or concealing a weapon, explosive ordnance, or other dangerous instrument that is not defined herein.
Reduction of One-Year Expulsion
The Superintendent is authorized to reduce on a case-by-case, the one year required expulsion period for firearms, knives, bomb threats or violent behavior, in circumstances subject to the provisions of state and federal special education law or when the Superintendent is his/her sole discretion, determines that the interest of the expelled student is served and the interests of other students, school employees and other members of the school community are not disproportionately disserved by such a reduction.
11. Permanent Exclusion A student may be permanently excluded from any Ohio Public School if the student is convicted of, or adjudicated a delinquent child for committing, when 16 years of age or older, one of the offenses in violation of the following cited sections of the Ohio Revised Code (See Board Policy).
12. Administrative Hearing is a formal procedure involving the student, parent or guardian, and principal when a serious infraction of school rules and/or a violation of the law has occurred. In an administrative hearing, parents or guardians are notified through the juvenile court that the principal has been appointed an officer of the court and that the parents or guardians are to be present at the hearing. The hearing is held in lieu of a court appearance and has the advantage for the student of possibly generating no criminal records. The primary purpose of the administrative hearing is to resolve problems at the school level and avoid a criminal record. The administrative hearing is in addition to any other due process procedure called for by law.
ALEXANDER ATHLETIC HANDBOOK
ATHLETIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
This athletic handbook is designed as a set of guidelines, rules, and responsibilities for Alexander student athletes in grades 7-12. From time to time our policies and regulations may change. In choosing to participate in school extra-curricular athletics, students are accepting a special responsibility to themselves, their teammates, school, parents, and community. Society in general has put increasing pressure on athletes to be involved in substance abuse, poor sportsmanship, and various criminal-type behaviors. At Alexander, our goal is for our athletes to be drug free, show good sportsmanship and be outstanding citizens in our community. We also want to encourage the development of good citizenship and sportsmanship through athletic participation. We believe athletics truly are a major part of a well-rounded educational experience. We are intentionally making efforts to foster a “family” atmosphere in our athletic programs. By “family” we mean student athletes, parents, coaches, and school administration and staff working together to develop responsibility and accountability. Our goal is to develop and promote what the Ohio High School Athletic Association calls Clique I athletes, parents, and coaches. Let us all work together to make athletics at Alexander a meaningful educational experience.
Frank Doudna Lee Raines
Jason Kearns
Code Of Ethics For Spectators
Winning is often so important that some people lose sight of the educational value inherent in athletics. If the full benefit of athletics as a tool is to be utilized, educational institutions must immediately concern themselves with spectator sportsmanship.
The playing of the game should be regarded by the spectators as an art and should be appreciated and enjoyed as such. Respect for all players, coaches, and officials, regardless of their own team loyalty, is essential for raising the standards of good sportsmanship.
Ethical Considerations for the Spectator:
1. Recognize the official as a person of integrity and qualification and respect the decision accordingly.
2. Refrain from creating disturbances that would be detrimental to the flow of the game and/or to the safety of the participants involved.
3. Refrain from harassment, profane language or ostentatious behavior in respect to players and coaches.
4. Become familiar with the rules of the game in order to enjoy it more and to understand the decisions by the officials.
5. Exhibit respect for the local policies and regulations regarding the usage of the athletic facilities.
6. Exhibit team loyalties and
support without negative
action toward their
opponents or officials of
the game.
Any person who feels he or she can support these rules of ethics is welcome to any athletic contest supervised by and for the
Athletic Philosophy
The
- To provide students with the opportunity to engage in competitive activities and to come to understand that word “compete” is derived from Latin words meaning, “to strive together”.
- To provide students with the opportunity to experience self-discipline, sacrifice, and dedication as means of achieving goals.
- To provide students with the opportunity to exemplify good sportsmanship as a means for learning good citizenship.
- To provide students with the opportunity to experience working as a member of a team in order to achieve a goal, and in the process, learn that cooperation and competition are not mutually exclusive concepts.
- To provide students with the opportunity to experience both winning and losing. Students should come to understand that losing provides opportunities to learn, setting the stage for future winning, and that winning is not as important as an end result, as it is as a feedback indicator that you’re probably doing a pretty good job as individuals and as a team.
- To demonstrate to students that real, lasting satisfaction comes not so much from “winning” per se as from doing the job to the best of your ability.
- To demonstrate to students that as individuals they are capable of achieving more than they think they are capable of achieving.
- To provide students with the opportunity to engage in competitive experience in an acceptable manner.
- To provide students with the opportunity to experience a feeling of self-worth and to develop self-confidence.
- To provide students with the opportunity for experience in problem solving and decision making.
- To provide students with the opportunity to engage in organized activities with other students whose backgrounds and academic abilities may be dissimilar from their own.
- To provide students with the opportunity to learn new skills beyond those acquired in physical education classes and to improve upon those already acquired.
- To provide students with the opportunity to understand and practice the principles of sound health, safety, and physical fitness.
- To provide students with the opportunity to develop the ability and desire to use their time effectively.
- To provide students with the opportunity to have a positive rallying point for the school in order to help them develop school loyalty and a sense of participation in a larger whole.
In addition to all policies of the
The
Competitive sports are an inherent part of the total education program for students in secondary schools. When properly organized and conducted, inter‑school athletics provide numerous opportunities for students to participate in activities, which promote growth and development, teach social and recreational skills and develop leadership qualities. These values are more readily attained when the program is based upon accepted standards and practices developed by professional leaders in education and when competing teams are members of, and follow the regulations approved by, a state high school athletic association. These regulations for high school interscholastic athletics of the Ohio High School Athletic Association are based upon the following principles and policies:
1. The major emphasis on interscholastic athletics should be upon skilled plan and good sportsmanship. Competition should be equitable in order that full learning and enjoyment may be realized from game participation.
2. Every attempt should be made to provide favorable playing conditions in order that the competitive experiences of the students may be wholesome and result in the attainment of desirable attitudes and conduct.
3. The interscholastic program should be offered in conjunction with a comprehensive instructional physical education and intramural program. It should encompass a variety of activities.
4. The program should be financed by budgeted organizational and school funds rather than solely by admission charges.
5. The contest rules, regulations
and supervision of the.
program should insure the
maximum protection of the
health and safety of the
players.
6. Limitations should be placed upon the length of the sport season, the number of practice periods and the number of interscholastic contests played.
7. It is recommended that a student be a member of no more than one interscholastic team at any one time.
8. Athletic events shall be played
according to the contest rules
and regulations approved and
adopted by the Board of
Control.
Head Coaches Responsibility
All coaches distribute their own individual sets of written rules for their particular sport. The signature of each athlete and athlete's parent is required as proof that the athlete received a copy of these rules; one copy must be kept in the athletic director's office and each individual athlete must have a copy. Each head coach is given a set of guidelines from the board of education.
Pep Sessions
The number of pep sessions is limited. Cheerleaders should consult the advisor who in turn will clear it through the school administrator. If the coach wants a pep session, he/she should clear it through the administrator and consult the cheerleading advisor in order to set up a schedule. The advisor is responsible for contacting the band director if music is desired.
Athletic Banquets
An awards program and banquet will be held after each of the three sports seasons during the school year. The fall banquets will be held in November and will include members of the football, volleyball, cross‑country, soccer, golf teams and cheerleaders. The winter banquet will be held in March and will include basketball players, cheerleaders, and swimmers. The spring banquets will be held in May and will include baseball, softball and track and field. All athletes must attend their scheduled banquet. If attendance is not possible, arrangements must be worked out with the coach and Athletic Director. Failure to attend the awards banquet may result in an athlete not receiving an award as determined by the athletic director.
A senior sports banquet will be held in may honoring all senior athletes. The athletes will be required to dress up for this special banquet.
Athletic Participant
All those associated with the Athletic program are expected to act in a manner that will not discredit their family, school, and community, but most importantly, themselves.
When rules governing our society are broken, penalties are forthcoming. If rules of conduct, as designated by your coaches are broken, it is assumed you are also willing to pay the price for the infraction.
There are advantages and disadvantages to participating on athletic teams. The advantages are far too numerous to mention here. You are already aware of many, but you will realize others as you mature.
Some disadvantages are:
1. You may work hard and never become
a starter.
2. Training rules may “cramp” your social
style.
3. You will have to spend much time
participating while some of your friends
are out having a good time.
4. In spite of decreased study time, you still
must do the job in the class room.
5. The work is often hard, tiresome and
monotonous.
6. Injury is possible.
When you agree to participate on an athletic team you have made a commitment not only to your teammates and coach, but also to yourself.
The coach or trainer will record all injuries for insurance purposes. All injured athletes capable of being at practice or games after a serious injury must present a medical release signed by a doctor.
Warning: Anabolic Steroids
Improper use of anabolic steroids may cause serious or fatal health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, growth deformities, infertility, personality changes, severe acne, and baldness. Possession, sale, or use of anabolic steroids without a valid prescription is a crime punishable by a fine and imprisonment. Additionally, such conduct may subject an athlete to penalties provided under the Student Code of Conduct and under these Athletic Policies.
This warning shall be conspicuously posted in the locker rooms of
Practice On Holidays And Sundays
No athletic teams will be scheduled to play or practice on a holiday or Sunday without advance permission through the athletic director.
Student Participation
Once an official contest has been played, athletes are not permitted to jump from one sport to another sport unless that student just moved into our school district.
No Re-Entry
Once students arrive at a home contest they must remain until they are ready to leave. There will be no re-entry for students who leave contests early.
ALMA MATER
THROUGH THESE HALLOWED HALLS OF HONOR,
MAY OUR VOICES 'ER RESOUND
IN PRAISE OF ALMA MATER,
WHERE WE ARE HONOR BOUND.
WITH PRIDE WE HAVE HER BANNER HIGH,
AND AS THE YEARS GO BY,
WE WILL CHERISH ALL OUR MEMORIES,
OF ALEXANDER HIGH.
SELF PRIDE !!!
TEAM PRIDE !!!
SCHOOL PRIDE !!!
Alexander Jr. High and High School Athletic Participation Rules
A student participates in athletics by choice. In so doing, the student also chooses to adhere to the athletic participation rules. A Spartan student athlete will not do anything that will jeopardize their chances for playing or the team’s chance for success. The following is a list of regulations and penalties that apply to all athletic activities at Alexander Jr. High and High School. These rules apply during the entire sport season, on and off school grounds, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. In addition to these rules, each coach or advisor will develop regulations and penalties that apply to that sport or activity. Coaches may impose team rules that are consistent with School Board Policy and Procedures. Students may also be suspended from an activity or sport for a violation of general school rules as set forth in the student conduct code.
Eligibility
A minimum 1.2 grade point average for Middle School students and 1.5 for High School students must be maintained for athletic participation each grading period, with no more than one failed class per grading period. Students must also pass 5 credits each grading period, per OHSAA guidelines.
OHSAA Bylaws for Eligibility
-All beginning seventh graders are eligible in so far as the scholarship bylaws of the OHSAA.
-All beginning ninth graders must have passed 75 percent of the subjects taken in the last grading period in order to be eligible.
-Eligibility for each grading period is determined by grades received in the preceding grading periods. Semester and yearly grades have no effect on eligibility.
-Grades 9 – 12: To be eligible, a student athlete must be currently enrolled in a member school and have received passing grades in a minimum of five one-credit courses, or the equivalent, in the immediately preceding grading period. (Note: Students taking post-secondary options must comply with the standards.)
-Grades 7 – 8: To be eligible, a student athlete must be currently enrolled in a member school and have received passing grades in 75 percent of subjects in which enrolled the immediately preceding grading period.
-For eligibility, summer school grades may not be used to substitute for failing grades received in the final grading period of the regular school year or for lack of enough courses taken the preceding grading period.
The Athletic Code of Conduct is enforced at all school-sponsored activities, either at school or in a school safety zone, or at another school-sponsored venue. In order to be eligible, students must meet both Alexander Local School Board Policy and OHSAA by-laws.
Rule 1: The sale, possession, or use of any
Illegal drug, or alcoholic beverages is prohibited.
PENALTY: 1st offense Professional assessment.
Safety and well-being is of the utmost concern to the staff of Alexander. Therefore, a professional assessment must be completed by a certified health care provider before reinstatement into the Alexander Athletic program, or parent may choose a 10 % athletic game suspension in lieu of a professional assessment. See Chart #1 (Students who quit the team before the assessment must complete one before participating in any future Alexander Athletic programs.) The cost of a professional assessment is the responsibility of the parent.
Chart # 1
HS MS
Baseball/Softball 3 N/A
Basketball 2 2
Cheerleading/fall 1 1
Cheerleading/winter 2 2
Cross Country 2 N/A
Football 1 1
Golf 2 N/A
Soccer 2 1
Track 2 1
Volleyball 3 2
Wrestling 2 1
2nd offense will result in a suspension of (see Chart # 2) season contests, reinstated upon the completion of a profession assessment.
Chart # 2
HS MS
Baseball 7 N/A
Basketball 5 4
Cheerleading/fall 3 2
Cheerleading/winter 5 4
Cross-Country 4 N/A
Football 3 2
Golf 5 N/A
Soccer 4 4
Softball 7 N/A
Track 4 3
Volleyball 6 4
Wrestling 5 4
3rd offense will result in dismissal from the team for the remainder of the sport season.
4th offense will result in suspension from
Rule 2: The sale, possession or use of tobacco (including snuff) is prohibited.
PENALTY: 1st offense Assignment to Alexander High School Tobacco Cessation Program.
2nd offence will result in a suspension of see Chart # 2 season contests.
3rd offense will result in dismissal from the team for the remainder of the sport season.
4th offense will result in suspension from
Rule 3: Being convicted of a misdemeanor crime, or any non-felony juvenile court conviction including being placed in the first offender program
PENALTY: 1st offense will be determined by the administration and coach.
2nd offense will result in a suspension see (Chart # 2) of the contests of that sport season.
3rd offense will result in suspension from the team for the remainder of the sport season.
Rule 4: Being convicted of a felony crime.
PENALTY: 1st offense will result in suspension from
2nd offense will result in suspension from
3rd offense will result in permanent exclusion from
In rules 1-4, if an offense occurs and the season has reached a point where the discipline cannot be fully served, the student will be referred to rule 7 for the completion of the penalty.
Rule 5: A student must attend school a minimum of 6 periods on the day of a practice or game. The exceptions to this are a pre-approved (by principal or athletic director) excused or a doctors excuse.
PENALTY: The student is not permitted to participate in that days practice, game, or event.
Rule 6: Each student is responsible for taking care of uniforms and other equipment issued to them. Unauthorized wearing of school uniforms, or other equipment, failure to return issued or stolen equipment, failure to pay for damaged or lost equipment, and stealing of school-supplied equipment is prohibited.
PENALTY: The student cannot participate in any extra-curricular activity until the equipment is returned or paid for at the athletic director discretion.
Rule 7: Any violation of rules 1-4 which occur out-of-season or too late in the season to fulfill the disciplinary action (see penalty under this rule).
PENALTY: The student will be responsible for 15 hours of school or community service approved by the building principal or his/her designee. This must be completed before the student begins his/her next sport season.
The following individuals have the authority to impose discipline: the administration and coach/advisor. They shall notify a student of his/her proposed suspension from an extracurricular activity, and the reason(s) for the suspension. They shall also notify the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian. The notice shall include the reason for the suspension and the right to appeal the decision.
The imposition of the penalty shall not be stayed pending appeal. Appeals regarding a proposed suspension from extracurricular activities shall be taken to the superintendent. Such appeals must be made in writing within 48 hours after receiving notification of the suspension. The superintendent shall hear the appeal, and shall provide the student, the student’s parents, guardian, or custodian with an opportunity to present their version of the incident. The superintendent will then notify, in writing, the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian of the decision on the proposed suspension.
A coach/advisor shall have the right to remove any student from immediate participation in any extra-curricular activity under that coach’s/advisor’s supervision if the student’s presence poses a continued danger to persons or property or an on-going threat of disrupting school, travel, or any school provided transportation or any school sponsored activity held on or off school property. Within 24 hours of the suspension of a student from extracurricular participation, the coach/advisor shall either reinstate the student’s participation privileges or issue a proposed suspension of the student to the principal.
The disciplinary provisions of this handbook apply only to the removal of a student from extracurricular participation for a period of time of one day or more. The provisions are not applicable in the case of routine disciplinary procedures in which a student is removed from extracurricular participation for a period of time of less than one day. The provisions have no applicability whatsoever to a coach’s/advisor’s day-to-day decisions related to selection of students for any play, concert, or other activity or competition, the level of participation of student in a particular activity, or discipline of a student by a coach/advisor that consists of any penalty other than the complete removal of a student from extracurricular participation. (For example, a coach/advisor may determine that a student may attend a play, concert, or other activity or competition, as part of an activity, but may determine that the student will not participate in the event. This is not considered to be a removal from extracurricular participation as defined in this policy, since the student is still attending the activity as part of the activity).
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Practices
Missing an athletic practice for personal reasons including: senior pictures, hunting, or hair appointments are not excused absences. Students should make every attempt to schedule these appointments at another time.
Mandatory fall sports practices begin the Monday of
Playing multiple sports during the same season can be done, with permission from the Athletic Director.
All athletes must ride to athletic contests on school transportation unless prior permission has been obtained from the administration. Athletes are encouraged to ride school transportation from events unless prior permission has been obtained from the coach.
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Appropriate Dress & Grooming
Each athlete is responsible to dress and groom appropriately while attending away competitions. The wearing of inappropriate attire could result in removal from team competition on the specific day an infraction occurs. See your coach or athletic director if you are concerned about specific attire. Please take pride in your appearance and your team.
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student_handbook_2008-2009.pdf